Bluetooth headsets
Bluetooth is a short-range wireless standard used by phones, tablets, and many computers.
- Range: Typically up to about 10 metres (33 feet); some devices can reach more.
- Pairing: You must match the transmitter (source) and headset profiles to communicate.
- Latency: There can be some delay between audio and video. Using low-latency codecs can help, but not all devices support them.
- Best use: Good for listening to music or casual use. For TV watching, check if the source and headset support low-latency options.
RF headsets (800–900 MHz)
RF stands for Radio Frequency – a type of wireless signal that can pass through most obstacles like walls, but may have reduced range when it does.
- Latency: Near zero (very low).
- Range: About 300 feet (roughly 90 metres) with a clear line of sight.
- Transmitters and headsets: The transmitter connects to the audio source. You can have multiple headsets per transmitter; the exact number depends on the model.
- Interference: If the transmitter stops sending a signal, you may hear white noise in the receiver.
- Best use: Good for TV watching in larger rooms or homes where you need low latency and longer range.
Digital wireless headsets (2.4 GHz)
Uses the 2.4 GHz band (the same band used by many Wi-Fi devices and Bluetooth).
- Latency: Small, but sometimes noticeable depending on the model.
- Range: About 300 feet (roughly 90 metres) with line of sight.
- Transmitters and headsets: Common configurations allow multiple headsets per transmitter (often about 2-4; exact numbers depend on the model).
- Interference: 2.4 GHz devices can interfere with nearby Wi-Fi or other wireless gear.
- Best use: Flexible for medium to large rooms, but check the model's latency specs if you watch TV.
Infrared headsets (IR)
Audio is carried by a beam of infrared light.
- Line of sight: Required - there must be an unobstructed path between transmitter and receiver.
- Range and capacity: Limited to the line of sight beam; multiple receivers can be used as long as they stay within the light path.
- Interference: Plasma TVs and fluorescent lighting can cause interference.
- Best use: Works well in a single-room setup with clear line of sight.
Tips to choose
- For TV watching with very low latency, look for options that advertise low-latency codecs or near-zero latency.
- Keep line of sight clear for infrared or RF systems to avoid signal loss.
- Check the exact range, number of supported headsets, and latency specs in the product documentation before buying.