TOP 10 best headphones for TV according to customer reviews

Expert: Bogdan Shevchuk

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Watching TV using a standard speaker or any other open sound system is not always appropriate (it’s late, the children are sleeping, someone just doesn’t like loud sound, an elderly person has difficulty hearing, etc.). To solve this issue, a wide variety of headphones have long been invented and are widely used. They come with both wired and wireless connections.

Wireless connections are made via IR, radio, or via a paired Bluetooth device on the TV. Most often, such headphones are relatively inexpensive, easy to connect, “remember” already used devices, have a sufficient active range, and generally do not create problems for the owner, regardless of his level of technical training.

It is precisely these devices – the best headphones from different brands for working in tandem with a TV – that today’s rating review by the Expertology team of specialists is devoted to.

Panasonic RP-HTF295

Full-size (on-ear) dynamic wired headphones with an overhead rim mount. Membrane diameter - 40 mm. They operate in an extended frequency range - from 10 to 27000 Hz. Sensitivity is within normal limits – 102 dB. The impedance is low (22 ohms), so the sound is clearer. The cable is quite long - 5 m. They have a two-way connection. The plug is straight. Connector - jack 6.3 mm. Maximum power - 1000 mW. Weight - 235 g.

Advantages:

• Design.
• Very light.
• The assembly and quality of the plastic are good.
• Long wire.
• They fit well.
• Clear sound on any range.
• Sound insulation is good.

Flaws:

• There is no volume control.
• The wire is thin.

The price of Panasonic RP-HTF295 headphones is 1350 rubles. A simple model is suitable for people without unnecessary needs who value reliability. 88% of buyers are satisfied with the quality of workmanship and ease of use. It surpasses the Sony MDR-RF855RK in the breadth of reproduced frequencies, and the Harman/Kardon Soho Wireless in terms of impedance, the sound is cleaner and more balanced.

Best TV Headphones with IR Connection

Now, as part of the rating of the best headphones for TV according to Expertology, we will consider headphones of a different type. Here, too, a wireless connection is possible, but using a different technology - data transmission in the infrared range.

Sennheiser HDI 830

Rating: 4.9

The nomination opens with the first non-full-size headphones in today's review. This is a plug-in type model - the so-called “plugs”, which are fixed in the ears using a flexible bow. At the bottom there is a convenient volume control.

These are dynamic type headphones with a single driver. Reproducible frequencies range from 50 to 16 thousand Hertz. Sensitivity is 125 dB. Harmonic coefficient - 1%. Due to the nature of the design, the headphones weigh significantly less than any of the models described above - only 68 g.

The capacity of its own lithium-ion battery is 170 mAh, which provides up to 12 hours of continuous operation. The package includes a pair of replacement ear pads.

Advantages

• high-quality sound;
• light weight and size;
• sensitivity;
• autonomy.

Flaws

• individual intolerance to “plugs”.

AVEL AVS002HP

Rating: 4.8

The second number in this rating category will be back to full-size on-ear headphones. In addition to all its advantages, which we will briefly describe here, this model is also extremely affordable.

So, here we are dealing with full-size dynamic headphones with a headband type of attachment. Communication with the transmitting device (including a TV) is established via a radio channel with a range of up to 8 meters.

The functionality of these headphones is limited to a minimum set of features, but, again, the affordable price more than covers this limitation. There is a built-in volume control and some automatic functions - automatic mute and complete shutdown when inactive. In addition to stationary TVs with the ability to connect via infrared channel, this model, according to the manufacturer, is also suitable for car multimedia systems.

The headphones are powered by two regular AAA batteries. Among users, as expected, there is no consensus on whether this is an advantage or a disadvantage, but most agree that it would be better to have a built-in rechargeable battery.

A hard case is included for safe transportation.

Advantages

• decent sound quality;
• soundproofing;
• automatic shutdown functions when inactive to save battery power;
• affordable price.

Flaws

• Power supply: AAA batteries.

Sony MDR-RF855RK

Over-ear headphones in a modern design. They differ from the Panasonic RP-HTF295 in the absence of a wire. They work via radio channel. The headband is comfortable and adapts to any head size using an adjuster. Very soft ear pads create convenience and comfort. The speakers are equipped with neodymium magnets. The frequency range is slightly smaller - 10–22000 Hz. The coefficient of frequency fluctuations is 2%. Thanks to their large range (100 m), they can be used in any corner of the apartment. Powered by a Ni-MH battery providing 18 hours of autonomy. It takes 7 hours to charge. A charge level indicator is provided. Unlike the Panasonic RP-HTF295, the volume can be adjusted on the headphones. They turn on and off automatically when put on or taken off. The transmitter has its own linear input, but can also be connected via a 3.5 mm plug (mini jack). They weigh a little more - 280 g. The kit includes a base for charging and storage.

Advantages:

• Beautiful view.
• Nice ear pad material.
• No wires.
• Convenient size adjustment.
• Excellent fit, comfortable.
• They hold a charge for a long time.
• Auto shutdown system.
• Large range of action.
• Storage on the base stand.

Flaws:

• White noise (very strong background makes it difficult to hear the source).
• Some users find the sound quality to be mediocre.

Sony MDR-RF855RK cost 5900 rubles. The manufacturer has especially worked on ergonomics. Surprisingly pleasant ear pads, excellent fixation. But many people don't like the sound quality. Only 67% of buyers call their work good (taking into account the low cost).

Content:

• 1 Features of wireless accessories for TV 1.1 IR devices
• 1.2 Broadcasting sound via radio signal
• 1.3 Sound via Bluetooth
• 1.4 Wi-Fi TV headphones

Watching your favorite movie or TV series often coincides with your child’s homework time or quiet time. Often, you just want not to be distracted by extraneous noise while watching a film. And in both cases, wireless headphones for TV will help. Good options maintain ideal sound quality. Allows you to easily change viewing position. With them, you don’t have to worry about whether the wire is long enough to fit comfortably on the bed.

Let's understand the features of gadgets and selection criteria. Let's look at popular models of accessories for modern TVs.

Harman/Kardon Soho Wireless

Open headphones of an unusual rectangular shape with a speaker diameter of 30 mm. They differ from Sony MDR-RF855RK by the presence of a built-in microphone, body material (metal + leather) and a smaller frequency range (20–20000 Hz). They have sufficient sensitivity - 100 dB, an acceptable impedance level (32 Ohms). Harman has a combined connection - via Bluetooth 3.0 or a standard connector. The range is much lower - only 10 m. But they can be used both indoors and outdoors. They are compatible with many modern gadgets thanks to NFC technology. Powered by battery. Charging takes 2 hours. They are controlled by touch buttons located on the left earphone. L-shaped plug. Maximum power - 30 mW. Relatively light weight (250 g). Included is a detachable round cable 1.2 m long.

Advantages:

• They look interesting and stylish.
• Excellent build quality.
• Ability to receive calls.
• They hold a charge for a long time.
• Good sound.
• Normal sound insulation.
• Bluetooth works without interference.

Flaws:

• Weak microphone.
• They don't fit very tightly on the head.
• Touch controls are sometimes delayed.

The price of Harman/Kardon Soho Wireless is 6,850 rubles. The headphones provide acceptable sound quality with the possibility of different connections and are made of durable materials. They are worth choosing for those who want a universal model. They are inferior to the Sony MDR-RF855RK in range, but are suitable for outdoor use. Of the buyers, 75% rated their work positively.

Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 – Premium Choice

The design is stylish and futuristic. The headphones are compact, with smooth lines and high-quality plastic, metal and leatherette. They look much more interesting than their counterparts. The design is not foldable.

The headphones are light and comfortable. You can spend 3 hours or more in them without experiencing discomfort.

The sound is balanced and moderately authentic, without obvious accents or distortions, universal and high quality.

The noise reduction and transparency modes are truly amazing with excellent rejection of monotonous low- and mid-frequency noise, easy setup and no impact on the sound. With the transparency option, you can talk comfortably without removing your headphones. No automatic modes like Sony's.

The controls are hybrid: partly touchscreen - convenient and functional, partly push-button, everything is at hand. There is no smart pause.

Reasons to buy:

• Excellent active noise cancellation
• Automatic shutdown when immobile (you can easily fall asleep with headphones on)
• High-quality Bluetooth connection

Reasons not to buy:

• The design is not foldable

Marshall Mid Bluetooth

They are distinguished by better sound insulation (closed type), have a folding design, larger diameter speakers (40 mm), and a larger frequency range (10–20,000 Hz). The sensitivity is slightly lower - 95 dB. Communication is via Bluetooth v 4.0. Operating time: 30 hours. Charging input - micro-USB. It is controlled by the KNOB joystick button: it adjusts the volume, receives calls, and switches tracks. Weight is slightly less - 226 g. The kit includes a removable twisted cord for a wired connection and a charging cable.

Advantages:

• Great looks.
• Quality of materials.
• Connectivity flexibility.
• Convenient controls.
• Wireless and wired modes.
• Long working time.
• Fairly clear sound.

Flaws:

• At the beginning of use, they apply a lot of pressure.
• Not very good sound insulation.
• No storage case.

The price of Marshall Mid Bluetooth headphones is 9,400 rubles. They look beautiful, fold up conveniently, and can work in wired or wireless mode. 90% of users pointed to the build quality and reproduction of clear, balanced sound, in which they are superior to the Harman/Kardon Soho Wireless.

Shure SRH840

Shure SRH840 are distinguished by a wider frequency range (5–25000 Hz), high sensitivity (102 dB), and moderately low impedance (44 Ohms). There is no wireless connection. The headphone connectors are gold-plated, in addition to the standard one (mini jack 3.5 mm), there is also an adapter (jack 6.3 mm). The wires are made of oxygen-free copper. The cable is 3 m long, round, braided, with one-way connection. It weighs much more - 317 g. The kit includes a storage case and replaceable ear pads.

Advantages:

• Normal assembly.
• Nice ear pads.
• Smooth, balanced, clear sound.
• Sufficient volume.
• Good insulation.
• Adapters 3.5 and 6.3 mm.
• Availability of a cover.

Flaws:

• Bulky headband.
• A bit heavy.
• The plastic is fragile, the earphone breaks off at the attachment point (according to several reviews).

The price of Shure SRH840 is 9900 rubles. The Marshall Mid Bluetooth is inferior to the ability to connect only via wire, but has slightly better characteristics that provide smooth sound. 71% of users rated the sound quality and sound insulation highly.

Types of headsets

There are several types of wireless models, differing in the type of connection.

1. Wi-Fi. This type of pairing is one of the most convenient: the signal is powerful, the range is long. The downside is that there are very few models; they are not available in official retail stores in Russia.
2. Bluetooth. The most common type, widely represented on the market. They are universal: suitable for phones and TVs. Minus - range - 10-15 meters. In addition, if Wi-Fi transmits a digital signal (without distortion), then with a Bluetooth connection the digital signal is converted to analog, which deteriorates the sound quality.
3. Infrared headphones are the most inconvenient option. It has a number of disadvantages: limited range, the presence of a base that must be placed so that there is direct visibility between it and the headphones, poor sound quality.
4. Radio headphones use radio waves to connect. They provide good sound quality, a range of up to 100 meters, and the signal easily penetrates walls. The downside is that there is a base, you need to think about how to place it so that it doesn’t interfere. Radio waves are sensitive to interference; if you turn on other electronics near the headset, the sound will be distorted. According to experts, these are the best wireless headphones for TV, but the choice is limited. Almost all models are produced by Sony or Sennheiser, which, due to the lack of competition, affects the prices - they are frankly overpriced.

Sennheiser RS ​​175

Wireless headphones powered by a radio channel. They reproduce a smaller frequency range than the Shure SRH840 - 17-22000 Hz. They have greater sensitivity - 114 dB. Thanks to the low harmonic distortion coefficient (0.5%) they provide clear sound. They have a large range of action - 100 m (30 m in the presence of walls). Operates on two AAA batteries. They have their own docking station, which acts as a charger and transmitter (2.4 GHz). You can connect two identical devices to it at the same time. Digital optical input. Provides 18 hours of operation. Equally good for watching movies, TV shows, and listening to music. Accuracy and clarity of sound are ensured by two modes - Bass Boost and Virtual Surround. The controls are located on the right earpiece. Weighs slightly less than the Shure SRH840 - 310 g.

Advantages:

• The materials are good, assembled with high quality.
• Comfortable to wear.
• Charging at the base.
• Long working hours.
• Stable radio signal.
• Two audio inputs.
• No interference.
• Good sound insulation.

Flaws:

• It's hot to my ears.
• The radio signal may interrupt Wi-Fi on the TV.
• High docking station.
• The control buttons are too close to each other.

Sennheiser RS ​​175 costs 10,990 rubles. Users emphasize the reliability of the design, sufficient range and good reproduction of high-quality sound without significant interference. This assessment was made by 78% of buyers. But they are inferior to the Shure SRH840 and Audio-Technica ATH-M50x in terms of the number of reproduced frequencies.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

This model is wired. It differs from the previous brand in monitor ear pads, a folding, adjustable design of a plastic headband supported by a metal plate. The headphones have a significant membrane diameter of 45 mm. Reproduces a greater range than the Sennheiser RS ​​175 (15–28000 Hz), but is less sensitive (99 dB). The resistance is moderately low - 38 Ohms. It can be used with a smartphone, provided that the latter has an audio output with good sound. The main twisted cable is 3 m long with one-sided connection (plug - 3.5 mm, adapter - 6.3 mm). Straight connector. Power - 1600 mW. They weigh less - 285 g. The kit includes two additional straight cables (3 and 1.2 m), a storage case.

Advantages:

• Spectacular appearance.
• Folding movable design.
• High-quality assembly and materials.
• Great rich sound.
• Good sound insulation.

Flaws:

• Not suitable for listening to music from a smartphone (according to some buyers).
• Inconvenient location of the plug socket.
• Price.

The price of Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is 11,500 rubles. These are fairly high-quality headphones with excellent sound, intended more for professional use, but they are also good for home use. They reproduce a larger frequency range than Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2. 88% of users recommend them for purchase, but the price is considered too high.

Why increasing the volume doesn't improve the situation

The easiest way to solve the problem is to add sound, but it is not the best:

1. Increased sound irritates households, interferes with watching TV shows together, and in houses with poor sound insulation, it ruins the lives of surrounding neighbors.
2. The speech of television announcers is often accelerated, sometimes twice as fast as the speech of ordinary people. Studies have shown that this speech rate creates serious difficulties for older viewers with hearing problems to understand, even at increased volumes. Thus, it has a negative effect on the ability of pensioners to watch their favorite TV shows.
3. Ambient noise also significantly affects the characteristics of perception. Watching programs may be disturbed by everyday sounds (city, household appliances), or reflection of the signal from the walls of the room itself (reverberation). Increasing the volume will not completely drown them out.
4. In addition, noise can be the sound accompaniment of the television programs themselves (music, special effects). In such cases, increasing the volume will automatically increase the sound of the accompanying noise.

Most often, a significant increase in volume is the main reason for visiting a hearing prosthetist and purchasing a hearing aid.

Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2

Wireless headphones with a smaller membrane diameter (40 mm). Frequency range - 20-20000 Hz, normal sensitivity (93 dB) and lower impedance (32 Ohms) provide clear, smooth sound. They work via Bluetooth v 4.0 or via a standard plug. The connector is L-shaped. The standard range is 100 m. A Li-Pol battery with a capacity of 680 mAh provides operation for 24 hours. Charging takes 3 hours. Equipped with ANC active noise cancellation system. Convenient control buttons adjust the volume, switch tracks, answer the call or turn it off. Weight: 289 g. Delivery includes detachable cable and case.

Advantages:

• Pleasant to the touch, high-quality materials.
• Made very well.
• Excellently balanced sound.
• Excellent noise reduction.
• Large range of action.
• Convenient controls.
• Long battery life.
• Good functionality.

Flaws:

• The cover is short-lived and made of soft fabric.
• Very thin wires.

The Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2 model for 11,990 rubles is somewhat inferior in sound characteristics to the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, although the sound is high-quality, balanced in frequency, and has excellent noise insulation. The quality of materials and comfort of wearing are especially noted. 89% consider their reliability and functionality excellent.

How to choose and what to pay attention to?

It should be remembered that headphones are divided into 4 groups: monitor, on-ear, earplugs and earbuds.

The first 2 are best suited for a personal computer precisely because of the sound quality: due to the increased diameter of the membranes, the sound is both cleaner and clearer.

Earplugs and in-ear headphones are simple and invisible in the ears, they are inexpensive, but the sound (due to the small diameter of the membranes) will not pleasantly surprise you.

They are bought for cell phones and players.

I'm going shopping, think about the following in advance:

• How often will you use them? If you need headphones for long-term work at the computer, choose an option with a headband (plastic or metal headband). It creates uniform pressure on the skull without causing any discomfort. Models with an occipital arch are similar in design, but since the main weight falls on the head and on the ears, doctors do not recommend wearing them for a long time. Women love to wear headphones with ear mounts (they don't ruin their hair), and models without mounts are suitable for small devices.
• What type of microphone do you need? The built-in one has one advantage: it is invisible. But in other respects it loses greatly: first of all, because it picks up all the extraneous noise. A microphone on a movable mount is ideal for a computer, a fixed microphone is attached to a plastic headband and is located near the mouth, on a wire - it is invisible, but due to the movement of the wire back and forth, the sound quality can alternately deteriorate and improve.
• Do you need freedom of movement? If you don't plan to get up from your computer, then the wire won't bother you. If you prefer to stretch your legs and do other things in the office or apartment at the same time, buy wireless headphones with a base station (it has a transceiver). The disadvantages of such models are the need to regularly charge them (or change batteries) and periodic loss of signal.
• Regarding electrical and sound parameters, read the instructions on the packaging . Impedance indicates the load placed on the computer's amplifier. The greater the resistance, the less the load and the higher the sound volume. Sensitivity lets you know what energy needs to be supplied to the model. The higher the parameters, the higher the volume at one signal level.

Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO

Full-size wired open-back headphones with a metal headband covered with a removable leatherette pad and soft velor ear pads that create maximum ear comfort. They are distinguished by the highest frequency reproduction in the rating - from 5 to 35,000 Hz. Sensitivity is within normal limits – 96 dB. They have a high resistance of 250 Ohms, which requires the use of an amplifier to obtain high-quality sound. The harmonic distortion factor, responsible for sound purity, is surprisingly low - 0.1%. The connector is gold-plated, straight, the plug and adapter are standard. A twisted, permanent, 3 m long oxygen-free copper cable is connected to the left earpiece. They weigh a little less - 250 g.

Advantages:

• Tight fit.
• Open, reliable design.
• Soft pleasant ear pads.
• Light weight.
• High quality sound with good detail.

Flaws:

• Permanent twisted rigid cable.
• Must be connected to an amplifier.
• Noise insulation.

The price of Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO is 16,200 rubles. 94% of buyers appreciated the build quality, reliability of the design, comfort and excellent sound. In all main characteristics, the model surpasses Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2 and Beats Studio 3 Wireless. But the increased impedance does not allow use without an amplifier. A good model for listening to music, especially for professionals.

JBL Live 650BTNC – Best Boosted Bass

Honestly, we like the JBL Live 650BTNC with everything, even with its design, and for us this parameter is at the sound level. Who needs ugly looking headphones? That's right - no one, so JBL decided not to neglect this and created one of the nicest models in this price category.

These are full-size closed-back headphones. The material of the ear pads is eco-leather, which is not the best choice, since it does not allow air to pass through and will be too hot for the ears in summer. Meanwhile, the headband is covered with mesh fabric, which is nice. It is soft and comfortable, there is a shock absorber between the body and the head.

The JBL Live 650BTNC fit comfortably on your head, do not press or fall off when you turn your head too hard, although after wearing the headphones all day you feel like they weigh quite a lot. Rotating cups and folding design allow you to wear them around your neck or in your bag.

The headphones have a hybrid control system: touch and classic keys. The controls are intuitive; it will take you a couple of hours to figure it out blindly.

The sound is clear and natural, there is bass, but it is not dominant, music sounds pleasant even at maximum volume. The noise cancellation is good enough that you can enjoy watching TV no matter what's going on around you.

Reasons to buy:

• Great design
• Comfortable fit
• Noise suppression

Reasons not to buy:

• Eco-leather may make your ears feel hot