Augmented Reality and the infinity display sans bezels may have been some of the most definitive tech trends for 2017. And then there was the wireless headphone. Almost a decade ago, bluetooth was deemed good enough only for a ‘wireless hands-free’ device. That has changed in 2017; Apple’s iPhone 7 launched in the last quarter of 2016 without a conventional 3.5 mm headphone jack might have just been the catalyst. If there’s one thing that unites fitness freaks, frequent fliers and working professionals who have to get through long daily commutes, it's the Bluetooth headphone. We round up some of the best headphones across price points and functionality:
For the frequent flier and the audiophile
Sony WH1000X
Sony WH1000X: Need to respond instantly to a fellow passenger or a flight attendant? You don’t need yank those headphones off; just place your hand on the right ear. The instant mute function is one of the cool tricks that make this a quintessential accessory for a long flight. This headband-style wireless device comes with exceptional noise cancellation abilities. A dual pin (compatible with most inflight entertainment systems) and extra cable—in case you need to switch to wired mode are in the box. It’s unlikely you’d need that with the 30-hour battery life though. (Rs 24,999)
Bose Quite Comfort 35: Probably the best Bose headphones your money can buy. It features the company’s acoustic noise cancelling technology that continuously keeps a tab on external sounds and cancels it with opposite signals. You can also adjust the noise cancellation choosing between three levels to suit your sound environment. You don’t have to worry about wailing infants during take-offs or landings. There’s also a dedicated Google Assistant ‘action button’ that allows you to play music, read texts and do a bunch of tasks with your voice and without having to pull your Android device out of your pocket. (Rs 29,363)
Bose Quite Comfort 35
Sennheiser Momentum Wireless: The MOMENTUM series has long been a favourite among serious music aficionados. Sennheiser has widened the range’s appeal with a wireless option that features the same high quality materials and minimalistic design language. The stainless steel sliders and leather ear cups ensure maximum comfort even for long listening periods. Aside from the brand’s proprietary noise cancellation features, this headset also features VoiceMax, an in-built microphone that ensures crystal clear conversations in multiple environments. (Rs 39,990)
Sennheiser Momentum Wireless
For the active lifestyle
Samsung Level Active: Geared for an active lifestyle with its water-resistant form factor and delivers great value for its price tag. Just what you need when you break into sweat during an intense workout. A variety of ergonomic soft gel ear tips combine with a flexible ear hook to keep the device in place even as you push the limits on your daily run. The earbuds are strung together by a behind-the-neck cable that also features a built-in remote. (Rs 3,780)
Samsung Level Active
Sennheiser Momentum in-ear wireless: One of the most comfortable neckband headsets with premium materials. Our favourite feature is Sennheiser’s proprietary ‘NoiseGard’ technology that uses four in-built microphones to cancel noise, allowing you to enjoy your favourite tracks even in noisy environments. There are different versions for Android and iOS devices, while the headset’s NFC technology offers instant ‘at a touch’ pairing for compatible devices. The three-button in-line remote with an integrated microphone allows you to flit from music mode to calls effortlessly. (Rs 14,900)
Sennheiser Momentum in-ear wireless
For everyday use
Apple AirPods: If you’re an iPhone user, the AirPods are almost a no-brainer and work like magic. They come on when you place them in your ears and turn off when you remove them. A double tap activates Siri. We dig the dental floss type design for the carry case that also doubles up as a charging station. This case holds over 24 hours of battery life while each full charge ensures five hours of listening time on your AirPods. Behind all that simplicity and intuitiveness is Apple’s robust W1 chip that powers the AirPods. (Rs 12,990)
Apple AirPods
Sony WF1000X: Sony’s ultra-light in-ear headphones punch way above their weight; literally. You barely feel these ultra-light headphones (just 6.8 gms each) in your ears that raise the sound bar for the category. A choice of ear buds ensures a snug fit. Sony’s proprietary Adaptive Sound Control technology combines with a custom app—Headphones Connect (available on iOS and Android) and allows you to tweak noise cancelling and ambient sound preferences depending on your sound environment. The charging case slips into your tightest jeans making this the ideal every day accessory. (Rs 14,999)
Sony WF1000X
