Stiftung Warentest takes a close look at in-ear headphones.
The results can be heard - even for cheap models.
Which headphones convince:
Stiftung Warentest tested 26 Bluetooth headphones (more test reports here).
Only models from 200 euros have "very good" sound
Inexpensive devices can keep up well
Clear sounds, rich bass: listening to music can be a feast for the senses with the right headphones - and torture with the wrong ones.
Stiftung Warentest has now tested in-ear headphones - with an amazing result, as reported by HEIDELBERG24.
These cheap models can definitely keep up with the expensive ones:
Headphones at Stiftung Warentest: Cheap models can keep up with expensive ones
High expectations are placed on in-ear headphones in particular.
Not only should they sound good, but they should also block out external noise – ideally in such a way that you can understand what is being said to you in close proximity.
In addition, they should sit well in the ears during any physical activity and just not fall out.
But what do the little plugs really deliver?
According to Stiftung Warentest, a surprising amount.
Most headphones still perform "well", whether they are on the cheap or expensive end of the price spectrum.
And it doesn't matter whether it's with or without a cable, depending on your preference.
However, the annoying tangle of cables with in-ear headphones can also be avoided with a few simple tricks.
Headphones at Stiftung Warentest: Expensive models convince with the sound
The most expensive devices actually perform best when it comes to sound.
The top score of 1.8 is shared by the second-generation Apple AirPods Pro, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II and the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3, all of which cost more than 200 euros.
Only the AirPods perform very well in terms of sound, closely followed by the Bose headphones.
While the models are particularly convincing in this category, they do not provide any advantage in the category "daily use/suitability as a headset" or in the instructions for use compared to devices from 49 euros and up.
The best (expensive) headphones:
In-ear headphones at Stiftung Warentest | test winner |
|---|---|
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) | 1.8 (“good”) |
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II | 1.8 (“good”) |
Sennheiser Momentum TrueWireless 3 | 1.8 (“good”) |
Sennheiser Sport True Wireless | 1.9 (“good”) |
Headphones at Stiftung Warentest: "good" - the best cheap models
However, there is also a cheaper way.
Even the "cheap" headphones up to 60 euros still get the grade "good".
And that – very important – even in the top category of sound.
What the cheaper models don't provide is active noise reduction.
Stiftung Warentest also tested Bluetooth headphones a few months ago.
Those who value a particularly undisturbed listening experience are better off with a higher price range.
Another advantage of noise cancellation - music can be heard quieter, which is easier on the ears.
The best cheap headphones at a glance:
In-ear headphones at Stiftung Warentest | Inexpensive test winner |
|---|---|
Hama Spirit Pure | 2.1 ("good") |
Skullcandy Mod | 2.1 ("good") |
JVC HA-A11T | 2.2 (“good”) |
Sony WI-C100 | 2.2 (“good”) |
Devil Real Blue | 2.2 (“good”) |
Headphones at Stiftung Warentest: sound, durability and pollutants - these models are not convincing
Since October 2021, however, Stiftung Warentest has also been regularly testing disappointing models.
So far, the Panasonic RZ B100W and the Isy ITW-2000 have not been convincing in terms of sound and have only received the grade "sufficient".
The testers also criticize the latter for their durability.
However, you can also help with your valued headphones by cleaning them properly.
After all, models like the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay EX and the Philips Fidelio T1 contain questionable pollutants.
You'd rather not have them in your ears.
The full headphone test report from Stiftung Warentest is available here for a fee.
(paw)
List of rubrics: © IMAGO/Westend61/Montage: HEADLINE24