Best Wireless Headphones for TV

These are strange and confusing times in which we’re living. If you’re lucky enough to be working at all, you’re probably working from home, likely in very close proximity to your family members or roommates. At my place, our living room has been doubling as an office for my wife and me. It is not uncommon for me to be working while my wife is eating her breakfast and watching The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (or some other quality programming) in a most inconsiderate and distracting fashion. In any case, it became evident to me that these new work conditions stood to increase the chances of disruptions and annoyances substantially, and that this was becoming a problem for both of us. And then, an epiphany— we need wireless headphones ASAP. If this situation sounds familiar to you, you’re in luck, because I’m going to run down the best wireless headphones for watching TV.

Sennheiser is a heavy hitter in the pro audio world, and its RS 195 Digital Wireless Headphone System reminds us that the company is a beast of consumer audio as well. In terms of sound quality, the RS 195 is at the head of the pack when it comes to headphones specifically designed for TV, movies, and hi-fi music listening. The system features hearing boost presets and a noise suppression mode, allowing for enhanced speech intelligibility. The package includes a pair of closed-back HDR 195 headphones and a TR 195 transmitter that connects directly to your TV or receiver via 1/8" or Optical TOSLINK connection. The transmitter also serves as a docking and charging station for the headphones. Relying on RF transmission, the headphones boast a range of up to 328' (100 m) line of sight. Since the system plugs directly into your TV, you’ll avoid annoying pairing issues that sometimes plague Bluetooth-based wireless headphones. And, last but certainly not least, the closed, circumaural headphone design keeps the listening experience personal, for the benefit of everyone in the room.

Pros: Top-notch sound quality with intuitive settings to enhance speech intelligibility and music listening.

Cons: May be on the pricey side for casual users who aren’t picky about top-quality sound.

In the case of several people who plan to be watching TV at the same time, the Sennheiser RS 175 Digital Wireless Headphone System might be the choice for you. The system comes with a pair of HDR 175 headphones, and a TR 175 transmitter. What’s cool about this transmitter is that it can support up to two sets of HDR 175 headphones, but if you want to take advantage of this feature, you’ll need to buy the second pair separately, because the system only comes with one. Like the TR 195, the TR 175 also has an analog 1/8" stereo input along with a TOSLINK optical input for direct connectivity to your TV or receiver, and functions as a charging station for the headphones, as well. Like the HDR 195, the HDR 175 headphones have a closed, circumaural design, but also feature dynamic bass boost and virtual surround sound modes, making them a great choice for movies and games. Analog and optical audio cables are included, along with two AAA rechargeable batteries.

Pros: With a transmitter that supports up to two pairs of headphones, the RS 175 is a great choice for families and roommates, plus it’s dynamic bass boost and virtual surround sound modes may be of interest to movie lovers and gamers.

Cons: If you are struggling with hearing impairment, the RS 195 may be the better choice due to the enhanced speech intelligibility features, which this model lacks.

If the Sennheiser line costs more than you’re looking to spend, not to worry. Sony’s offering also brings high-fidelity audio and comfort, but at a more affordable price. The WH-RF400 Wireless Over-Ear Home Theater Headphones feature large 40mm drivers that are engineered for accurate reproduction of the high- and low-end frequencies. With an adjustable design, soft, padded ear cups, and up to 150 feet of wireless range, these puppies pack a lot of punch for the buck. When fully charged, the headphones last for up to 20 hours of continuous playback. They also feature a Voice Mode, which is designed to make the dialogue in your TV shows and movies clearer and more easily understood.

Pros: Affordable price and great sound make these a solid choice for students and shared living spaces.

Cons: With only an analog 1/8" stereo input, audiophile customers may want to consider the Sennheiser models that sport the TOSLINK optical input.

Are you shopping for wireless headphones for TV, movies, or even games? I encourage you to ask any questions on this subject in the Comments section, below, and I’ll get back to you with any help or and guidance I can provide. I also would like to extend my best wishes to you during these difficult times, and thanks so much for reading.