Bluetooth headphones have become increasingly popular in recent years, allowing us to listen to music and take calls wirelessly. With the release of Bluetooth 5.0 in 2016, headphones using this new standard offer longer battery life, faster data transfer speeds, and improved connectivity compared to older Bluetooth versions. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Bluetooth 5.0 headphones—their pros, cons, new features, and how they compare to their predecessors.
What is Bluetooth 5.0?
Bluetooth is a wireless technology standard used for exchanging data between electronic devices over short distances. Bluetooth 5.0 is the latest version, which offers four times the range, two times the speed, and eight times the broadcast message capacity compared to Bluetooth 4.2. This allows Bluetooth 5.0 devices to remain connected over longer distances, transfer more data, and connect to more devices at once.
Benefits of Bluetooth 5.0 Headphones
Here are some of the key benefits that Bluetooth 5.0 headphones provide over older Bluetooth models:
Extended Wireless Range
One major advantage of Bluetooth 5.0 headphones is their extended wireless connectivity range. While older Bluetooth versions allow connections of up to 10 meters, Bluetooth 5.0 lets devices communicate across distances of up to 40 meters. This gives you more freedom to move around while listening to music or taking calls.
Faster Data Transfer Speeds
Bluetooth 5.0 has double the data transfer rate of its predecessor, moving up to 2 Mbps. This reduced latency allows for near real-time audio transmission with minimal lag or lip sync issues during video streaming. Fast data speeds also result in better call quality.
Longer Battery Life
The new Bluetooth standard is more energy-efficient, meaning Bluetooth 5.0 headphones can last over twice as long on a single charge compared to older Bluetooth models. Some high-end options provide 30 hours of playback per charge—perfect for travelers and commuters.
Multi-Stream Audio
An interesting feature of Bluetooth 5.0 is its ability to simultaneously connect two audio devices. This enables you to share whatever you’re listening to from one device to another compatible headset.
Improved Device Connectivity
Bluetooth 5.0 allows more devices to be paired and connected at once. While older standards limit connections to 7 devices, Bluetooth 5.0 supports unlimited paired devices while actively communicating with 2 at a time. Switching connections is also faster now.
Potential Drawbacks
While Bluetooth 5.0 headphones boast major improvements, they also come with a few limitations:
Pricing
Latest tech comes at a price – Bluetooth 5.0 headphones are more expensive than older Bluetooth models. Prices range from $50 for basic in-ear options to over $300 for premium noise-cancelling models.
Compatibility Issues
To enjoy all Bluetooth 5.0 benefits, both transmitting and receiving devices need to support it. Connecting to older Bluetooth 4.2 or lower devices reduces wireless range, speed, etc. Backward compatibility helps but isn’t optimal.
Shortened Standby Time
While battery life during music playback is longer, standby time is reduced. So you may need to charge Bluetooth 5.0 headphones more frequently between uses compared to older Bluetooth models.
Lack of Adoption
Bluetooth 5.0 was introduced in 2016, yet adoption has been slow. Even in 2022, most available wireless headphones still use older standards. So shoppers have fewer options to choose from.
Should You Upgrade to Bluetooth 5.0 Headphones?
Here are some key questions to help you decide if now’s the right time to upgrade:
What devices will you be connecting? First, check if the smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other devices you use most support Bluetooth 5.0. If not, you won’t notice major improvements.
What do you use them for? Bluetooth 5.0 brings the biggest perks for music streaming, gaming, or watching videos where lag-free audio and long battery life matter most. For basic calls, older standards may still suffice.
Is extended range beneficial? If you want to stroll around home while listening to music or often have connectivity issues with your current headphones, the 4x wider range can be a real upgrade.
Can you afford premium prices? You’ll need to spend over $100 for decent Bluetooth 5.0 headphones – and that’s just the starting price point. If your budget is tight, consider older but more affordable Bluetooth 4.2 options.
The Bottom Line
Bluetooth 5.0 headphones deliver better wireless range, speed, connectivity, and battery efficiency compared to predecessors. However, prices run high and compatible devices remain limited over 5 years after its release. For many users, older Bluetooth standards still get the job done. Yet frequent travelers and music lovers can benefit from upgrading to Bluetooth 5.0 headphones – if they don’t mind the premium price tag.
As more manufacturers adopt the new standard and costs come down, Bluetooth 5.0 will likely become the norm for wireless audio. For now, assess your personal needs and budget to decide if the pros outweigh the cons of upgrading. I sincerely hope you find this “A Closer Look at Bluetooth 5.0 Headphones- Pros and Cons” article helpful.