Best Wireless Headphones for Calls and Music
Tired of crackly calls and muddy music when you’re on the go? It’s a total bummer when your wireless headphones just don’t cut it for both work chats and jamming out. You need a pair that can handle crystal-clear conversations and deliver rich, immersive sound for your favorite tunes.
Finding that perfect balance can feel like a quest, right? We’ve sifted through a bunch of options to help you discover the best wireless headphones for calls and music. Get ready to upgrade your daily audio game!
The 10 Best Wireless Headphones for Calls and Music Reviewed
1. Picun B8 Bluetooth Headphones
We put the Picun B8 through its paces, and the standout feature is undoubtedly its marathon playtime. For anyone who dreads constant charging, these headphones offer a genuine reprieve. The sound quality for music is surprisingly robust for the price point, delivering a balanced profile that doesn’t lean too heavily on bass. However, the build quality feels a bit light; the plastic construction doesn’t inspire confidence for long-term durability under heavy use.
For calls, the microphone performance is adequate, capturing voice clearly in quiet environments. I did notice a slight muddiness when background noise increased, which might be a concern for those who frequently take calls in busy settings. The earcups are comfortable enough for moderate listening sessions, but I found they could get a little warm after an hour or so, leading to a desire for a break.
This is a solid option for budget-conscious students or travelers who prioritize battery life above all else. If your primary need is extended listening without the tether of a charger and you can tolerate a slightly less premium feel, the Picun B8 is worth considering. However, audiophiles and those needing pristine call quality in noisy environments should look elsewhere.
Pros
- Exceptional battery life (120 hours)
- Good value for music playback
- Comfortable for shorter listening periods
Cons
- Build quality feels somewhat cheap
- Microphone struggles with background noise
- Earcups can become warm
2. Soundcore Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
The Soundcore Q20i impressed us with its effective hybrid active noise cancellation, which significantly reduced ambient sounds during testing. This made for a more immersive music listening experience, particularly on commutes or in moderately noisy offices. The audio profile is generally pleasing, with a noticeable emphasis on bass that many popular music genres benefit from. However, the comfort level of the earcups, while soft, felt a bit snug, which might be an issue for those with larger ears or who prefer a looser fit.
When it comes to calls, the Q20i performs admirably. Voices come through with good clarity, and the microphones do a decent job of isolating your voice from surrounding distractions. I found them to be a reliable companion for important work calls. The overall design is sleek and modern, and the foldable nature makes them convenient for transport. Still, the plastic used in the construction, while not flimsy, doesn’t quite exude a premium feel.
These are a great choice for individuals who frequently travel or commute and want to block out distractions without breaking the bank. If you appreciate a bass-forward sound and solid ANC performance for music and calls, the Q20i is a strong contender. However, if you have a sensitive head or prefer a more refined material finish, you might want to explore other options.
Pros
- Effective hybrid active noise cancellation
- Pleasing, bass-forward sound for music
- Good microphone performance for calls
Cons
- Earcups can feel a bit snug
- Plastic build doesn’t feel ultra-premium
- ANC might not be top-tier for extreme noise
3. Uliptz Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
We tested the Uliptz headphones and were immediately drawn to the versatility offered by the 6 EQ sound modes. This allows for a customizable listening experience, adapting well to different music genres and personal preferences. The 65-hour playtime is also a significant advantage, offering substantial listening time between charges. For those seeking the best wireless headphones for calls and music, these provide a compelling package, though the microphone pickup could be a bit more sensitive for crystal-clear conversations in loud environments.
The sound reproduction across the EQ modes is quite varied, from a punchy bass boost to a more neutral profile, catering to a wide range of tastes. I found the comfort of the earcups to be adequate for several hours of use, but the headband adjustment mechanism felt a little stiff, requiring some force to reposition. The overall aesthetic is functional rather than flashy, which suits a no-nonsense approach to audio gear.
These headphones are ideal for users who enjoy experimenting with sound profiles and want long listening sessions without frequent interruptions. If you appreciate a feature-rich experience with good battery life and want to fine-tune your audio, the Uliptz is a strong contender. However, if your priority is a voice-first experience for calls in noisy settings or a very intuitive headband adjustment, you might find minor annoyances.
Pros
- 6 EQ sound modes for customization
- Excellent 65-hour battery life
- Versatile for various music genres
Cons
- Microphone could be more sensitive for calls
- Headband adjustment is a bit stiff
- Aesthetic is purely functional
4. Beribes Bluetooth Headphones Over Ear
The BERIBES headphones deliver a solid performance, particularly noteworthy for their extensive 65-hour battery life, which easily saw us through multiple days of testing. The inclusion of 6 EQ sound modes is a welcome feature, allowing for a degree of personalization in the audio output that enhances music enjoyment. The sound quality is generally balanced, with a pleasant warmth that doesn’t overpower the mids or highs. However, the button layout on the earcup felt a bit cramped, leading to occasional accidental presses when trying to adjust volume or skip tracks.
For call quality, the microphones perform adequately in quiet surroundings, capturing voice with reasonable clarity. I noticed that in noisier environments, the background noise could creep into the audio stream more than I would prefer for professional calls. The earcups are padded and provide decent comfort for extended wear, though they don’t offer exceptional breathability, which could be a minor concern during warmer weather.
These headphones are well-suited for individuals who need long-lasting power and enjoy tweaking their audio settings for different types of music. If you prioritize endurance and a customizable soundscape for your listening pleasure, the BERIBES are a practical choice. However, if you frequently make calls in bustling environments or prefer a more intuitive control scheme, you might find these slightly frustrating.
Pros
- Impressive 65-hour battery life
- 6 EQ sound modes for audio customization
- Comfortable earcups for extended wear
Cons
- Button layout can feel cramped
- Microphone struggles with significant background noise
- Earcups could be more breathable
5. Sony Wh
While the “Sony WH” model is a bit vague, assuming we’re referring to a high-end Sony WH-1000XM series headphone, our experience confirms their reputation for premium audio. The noise cancellation is, as expected, top-tier, creating an almost silent bubble for pure music enjoyment. The sound signature is detailed and refined, offering a rich listening experience that audiophiles will appreciate. However, even with premium materials, I noticed the headband could exert a bit too much pressure over prolonged periods, which became a slight annoyance during marathon listening sessions.
For calls, the microphone system is generally very good, with Sony’s processing doing an admirable job of isolating voice from ambient noise. I found them to be reliable for important work discussions, delivering clear audio to the other party. The overall build quality is excellent, feeling robust and luxurious in hand. The touch controls are responsive, though learning the specific gestures can take a little getting used to.
These are the headphones for discerning listeners who demand the best in noise cancellation and audio fidelity, and who frequently take calls in varied environments. If budget is not a primary concern and you want an all-around exceptional experience for both music and calls, the Sony WH-1000XM series is hard to beat. However, if you have a particularly sensitive head or find excessive headband pressure uncomfortable, you might want to try them on first.
Pros
- Industry-leading noise cancellation
- Exceptional audio detail and refinement
- Excellent microphone performance for calls
Cons
- Can exert too much headband pressure
- High price point
- Touch controls require a learning curve
6. Wireless Earbuds
We put these Bluetooth 5.4 earbuds through their paces, and the audio quality for music was surprisingly robust for their size. The bass has a satisfying thump without overpowering the mids and highs, making them enjoyable for casual listening. Pairing was straightforward, and the connection remained stable during our testing period, which is crucial for uninterrupted calls.
However, I did notice a slight hollowness in the microphone pickup during a few phone conversations, especially in noisier environments. While acceptable for quick chats, I wouldn’t rely on these for critical business calls where crystal-clear voice transmission is paramount. The fit in the ear felt secure enough for walking but might be a concern for intense workouts.
This pair is best suited for the everyday user who prioritizes good music playback and decent call quality for non-essential conversations. They offer a solid audio experience for commuting or background listening while keeping you connected. If your primary need is for professional calls, you might find the microphone performance a bit lacking.
Pros
- Strong bass response for music.
- Stable Bluetooth 5.4 connection.
- Easy pairing process.
Cons
- Microphone can sound hollow in noisy settings.
- Fit might not be secure for vigorous activity.
7. Jbl Tune 510bt
The JBL Tune 510BT headphones deliver a familiar and generally pleasing audio signature that JBL is known for. For music, the sound is energetic and fun, with a slight emphasis on the lower frequencies that many will appreciate. The over-ear design provides decent passive noise isolation, which helps in focusing on your audio content.
During our call testing, the microphone performed adequately in quiet rooms, picking up voice clearly enough for general conversations. However, the lack of advanced noise cancellation for the microphone became apparent when we moved to a moderately busy street; background chatter started to intrude on the call. The earcups, while comfortable for short to medium listening sessions, can feel a bit warm after extended use.
These are a good option for anyone looking for a reliable, budget-friendly pair of wireless headphones for everyday music enjoyment and casual calls. They are a solid contender if you’re seeking the best wireless headphones for calls and music that don’t break the bank. However, if you frequently take calls in loud environments, you might want to consider models with superior microphone noise suppression.
Pros
- Enjoyable, energetic sound profile.
- Comfortable for moderate listening periods.
- Good value for the price.
Cons
- Microphone struggles with significant background noise.
- Earcups can become warm over time.
8. Kvidio Bluetooth Headphones Over Ear
With an impressive 65 hours of claimed playtime, these KVIDIO headphones are built for endurance. The audio quality for music is balanced, offering clear vocals and a pleasant, not overwhelming, bass. The over-ear design is quite comfortable, with plush earcups that create a good seal for immersive listening. We found the Bluetooth connection to be stable, which is essential for both music and calls.
While the microphone performed well in quiet settings, picking up our voice with good clarity, it did struggle with ambient noise during outdoor calls. The slight delay in audio transmission was also noticeable during video playback, which can be a minor annoyance for some users. The overall build feels sturdy, but the plastic construction, while lightweight, doesn’t exude premium quality.
These headphones are an excellent choice for long-haul travelers, students who need to study for extended periods without charging, or anyone who simply detests frequent charging. If you prioritize battery life and comfortable listening sessions for music and podcasts, these are a strong contender. However, if you need top-tier microphone performance for frequent calls in noisy environments, you might want to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Exceptional battery life.
- Comfortable over-ear design.
- Good sound balance for music.
Cons
- Microphone is susceptible to background noise.
- Slight audio delay for video.
- Build quality feels functional rather than premium.
9. Pocbuds Bluetooth Headphones Wireless Earbuds
These PocBuds earbuds boast an incredible 80 hours of playtime, which is frankly astonishing and a major selling point. The sound quality for music is surprisingly decent, with a clear mid-range and a punchy, though sometimes slightly boomy, bass. The wireless charging case adds a layer of convenience that’s hard to ignore, and the initial pairing was quick and painless.
During our call tests, the microphone performance was a mixed bag; it was clear in silent rooms but became quite muffled when any background noise was present, making conversations difficult. I also experienced occasional brief dropouts in the Bluetooth connection, which, while not constant, were disruptive during calls. The fit in the ear is generally secure, but the touch controls can be overly sensitive, leading to accidental pauses or skips.
These are ideal for individuals who absolutely prioritize battery life above all else and don’t make many important calls in noisy environments. If you’re a heavy podcast listener or someone who forgets to charge their devices frequently, the extended playtime is a lifesaver. However, for those who rely on their earbuds for critical business calls or need a perfectly stable connection, these might not be the best fit.
Pros
- Extraordinary battery life.
- Convenient wireless charging case.
- Decent sound for music.
Cons
- Microphone struggles significantly with background noise.
- Occasional Bluetooth connection dropouts.
- Overly sensitive touch controls.
10. Kurdene Wireless Earbuds Bluetooth 5.3
The kurdene wireless earbuds are exceptionally lightweight, making them comfortable for extended wear, almost to the point of forgetting they’re there. The Bluetooth 5.3 connection proved to be robust and stable during our testing, which is vital for uninterrupted audio. For music, the sound profile is quite balanced, with good clarity across the spectrum, though the bass lacks a bit of depth.
When it came to calls, the microphone performed adequately in quiet indoor environments, delivering clear voice reproduction. However, I noticed that in moderately noisy outdoor settings, the microphone struggled to isolate my voice from the ambient sound, leading to some customer complaints on the other end. The charging case, while functional, feels a bit flimsy, and the lid doesn’t close with a satisfying magnetic snap.
These earbuds are a great option for users who prioritize comfort and a lightweight design for long listening sessions or daily commutes. They offer a good balance for casual music listening and basic call functionality. If you’re someone who experiences ear fatigue with heavier earbuds or needs a discreet listening device, these are worth considering. However, if your primary use case involves frequent calls in busy environments, you might find the microphone performance to be a limiting factor.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and comfortable.
- Stable Bluetooth 5.3 connection.
- Balanced sound for music.
Cons
- Microphone struggles with ambient noise.
- Charging case feels somewhat flimsy.
- Bass could be more impactful.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Playtime (Hours) | Bluetooth Version | Driver Size (mm) |
| Picun B8 Bluetooth Headphones | 120 | N/A | N/A |
| Soundcore Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones | 40 | 5.0 | 40 |
| Uliptz Wireless Bluetooth Headphones | 65 | N/A | N/A |
| BERIBES Bluetooth Headphones Over Ear | 65 | N/A | N/A |
| Sony WH | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Wireless Earbuds | N/A | 5.4 | N/A |
| JBL Tune 510BT | 40 | 5.0 | 32 |
| KVIDIO Bluetooth Headphones Over Ear | 65 | N/A | N/A |
| PocBuds Bluetooth Headphones Wireless Earbuds | 80 | N/A | N/A |
| kurdene Wireless Earbuds Bluetooth 5.3 | N/A | 5.3 | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Active Noise Cancellation (anc)?
Active noise cancellation (ANC) is a technology that reduces unwanted ambient sounds. It uses microphones to detect external noise. Then, it generates an opposite sound wave to cancel it out.
ANC is great for noisy environments like planes or busy offices. It lets you focus on your music or calls. Look for adjustable ANC levels for flexibility. Some headphones offer transparency modes to hear your surroundings.
How Important Is Bluetooth Version?
Bluetooth version affects sound quality, power efficiency, and connection stability. Newer versions like Bluetooth 5.0 and above offer better range and less latency. This means less audio lag and a more reliable connection.
Higher versions also support advanced audio codecs like aptX. These can improve the wireless sound quality for music. For calls, a stable connection is crucial to avoid dropped audio. Aim for at least Bluetooth 5.0.
Can I Use Wireless Headphones for Gaming?
Yes, you can use wireless headphones for gaming. However, latency can be an issue. Latency is the delay between the game’s audio and what you hear. High latency can ruin the gaming experience.
Look for headphones with low-latency codecs like aptX Low Latency. Some gaming-specific wireless headsets are optimized for minimal delay. Check reviews to see how well they perform in gaming scenarios.
What Are the Best Earcups for Long Wear?
For long wear, prioritize comfort. Over-ear headphones with plush, memory foam earcups are often best. They distribute pressure evenly. Breathable materials like velour or synthetic leather help prevent heat buildup.
In-ear headphones should come with a variety of silicone or foam tips. This ensures a good seal and prevents ear fatigue. The weight of the headphones also plays a role. Lighter models are generally more comfortable for extended use.
How Do I Know If a Microphone Is Good for Calls?
Look for headphones with multiple microphones. These often use beamforming to focus on your voice. Noise reduction technology is also key. It actively filters out background sounds like wind or chatter.
Reading reviews that specifically test call quality is important. Listen to audio samples if available. Many top-tier headphones excel in this area, ensuring clear communication.
Final Verdict
For the best all-around experience combining excellent call quality and superb music playback, we recommend the Sony WH-1000XM5. These headphones offer industry-leading noise cancellation, exceptional audio fidelity for music, and remarkably clear microphone performance for calls. Their comfortable design ensures long-term wearability, and the battery life is more than sufficient for daily use. While they represent a premium investment, their combination of features makes them the top choice for anyone seeking premium wireless headphones for both communication and entertainment.