It ought to come as no shock that I get requested for purchasing recommendation regularly. I’ve spent the most effective a part of 20 years writing about client electronics and have examined a whole bunch of tech merchandise, so it is fairly actually my job to move on that information to my mates, household, and random folks I meet at weddings (as occurred final weekend).
It now acts as a bellwether for what the preferred merchandise are annually; from 4K TVs to wi-fi audio system, soundbars to streamers, every class has had its second within the solar over time.
For 2023 it is all about wi-fi headphones and wi-fi earbuds. And, as an indication of the occasions proper now, ideally one thing that is not too costly.
In earlier years, I’ve tried to persuade folks to spend a little bit bit greater than they may strictly need to. There have been low cost, five-star choices in the marketplace, however the high fashions had been so sturdy that it was higher to stretch your finances for those who may. Final 12 months, that meant nearly £250 ($280/AU$450) on the Sony WF-1000XM4 and nearer to £380 ($399/AU$550) on the Sony WH-100XM5. Not low cost.
Fortunately for 2023, there are five-star, award-winning suggestions within the wi-fi headphones and wi-fi earbuds classes, which I can’t solely heartily suggest however that additionally will not break the financial institution. Spoiler alert – it is nonetheless Sony that delivers the products. Treating somebody particular or your self? Listed here are the merchandise I feel needs to be on high of your Christmas reward record.
The most effective wi-fi headphones for most individuals
Sure, Sony has had an incredible 12 months.
Wi-fi earbuds are perfect for transportable, compact music on the transfer and the Sony WF-C700N buds provide a bounce in high quality in comparison with the cheaper WF-C500 and a style of the efficiency of the dearer WF-1000XM4. This places them in a really sturdy place and makes them a simple suggestion on the worth. No marvel they received the wi-fi headphones Product of the 12 months title within the 2023 What Hello-Fi? Awards.
Want over-ear headphones? If you would like correct isolation from ambient noise in your commute, then you need to go for an over-ear mannequin, and for most individuals, I would look no additional than the Sony WH-CH720N. One other award-winner, they’re solidly constructed and ship a full of life sound, plus provide spectacular lively noise-cancelling and all of the options you would need. All for a comparatively inexpensive worth.
So, whereas there are different good choices accessible – howdy, super-cheap Earfun Air buds, and the heavily-reduced Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones – I’m assured that the 2 Sony fashions on this web page will do a high-quality job for anybody attempting to find wi-fi sound on a comparatively low finances. And that’s my Christmas reward to you… Joyful listening!