Bluetooth vs Infrared Headphones
Headphones are an essential part of any music lover's gear. They serve as a gateway to a world of high-quality audio and immersive sound. We can find several types of headphones that differ considerably in terms of features, sound quality, and range. In this post, we will compare Bluetooth and Infrared headphones, two major types of wireless headphones, to help you decide which one to choose.
Bluetooth headphones
Bluetooth headphones use radio waves to transmit audio. They can connect to any device that offers Bluetooth connectivity. One remarkable advantage of Bluetooth headphones is their range. They can operate from 10 to 30 feet away from the audio source, providing you with ample freedom of movement while listening to music. On top of that, Bluetooth headphones are compatible with multiple devices and are a better choice for phone calls as they come with integrated microphones.
Bluetooth headphones are available in several styles, including on-ear, over-ear, and in-ear. They have a relatively low latency that reduces audio-video sync issues. A low latency could be as low as 200ms, giving a seamless experience for streaming video and music.
However, Bluetooth headphones also have their drawbacks. One of these is battery life. Most models have to be charged often, and this could be an issue for those who don't carry charging cables. Additionally, the sound quality of Bluetooth headphones may vary depending on the codec used.
Infrared headphones
Infrared headphones use light to transmit audio signals. They require a line-of-sight connection, meaning you must have the Infrared transmitter in your sight for them to work. Infrared headphones have a limited range, usually up to 25 feet, and are not good for activities where you move around a lot. Additionally, Infrared headphones are not compatible with all devices, limiting their versatility.
Infrared headphones, however, are great for wireless connectivity as they do not require any pairing. They are also known for their excellent sound quality as there is less loss of the signal, and you will get a clear sound most of the time. Moreover, Infrared headphones are better for watching TV or movies as they do not have any delay in audio transmission.
In summary, both Bluetooth and Infrared headphones have their advantages and disadvantages. Bluetooth headphones are versatile, and they offer a wide range of options to choose from. In contrast, Infrared headphones are more limited but great for simplified use such as on the TV.
References
- Bluetooth vs Infrared - Differences and Comparison | Diffen [https://www.diffen.com/difference/Bluetooth_vs_Infrared]
- A guide to wireless technologies and their use in aviation | Eurocontrol [https://www.eurocontrol.int/sites/default/files/content/documents/nm/user-manuals/2019-10/Wireless-Technology-Guide-V1-3en.pdf]
- Infrared Headphones vs. Radio Frequency Headphones [https://www.techwalla.com/articles/infrared-headphones-vs-radio-frequency-headphones]