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Best wireless TV headphones for 2024

Watch shows and movies at home without disturbing anyone else

In this article: Our top wireless TV headphone picks for sound that's clear and steady...

  1. Best over-ear TV headphones — Sennheiser RS 195
  2. Best in-ear TV headphones — Sennheiser RS 5200
  3. Best true wireless TV headphones — Sennheiser TV Clear Set 2
  4. Best value for TV headphones — Sennheiser RS 175

...Plus some introductory information about TV headphones and how they compare with other kinds of wireless headphones.

A dedicated pair of high-quality wireless TV headphones offers a clean solo TV listening experience with a flexible, wire-free set up. These systems are helpful for folks with hearing loss and are especially good at clarifying dialogue. The audio mix in many shows and movies makes quiet conversations and calm moments notoriously difficult to understand. A good set of TV headphones solves that problem handily with additional clarity and volume.

TV headphones are also an excellent option for anyone after the rest of their household has gone to bed. If you want to enjoy your TV late at night without disturbing your family or roommates, these sets are an easy, effective go-to. You won't send rumbles through the house with every onscreen explosion or worry folks that there's a gangster making deals in the living room while they sleep. (Or maybe that's just me on the crime drama kick.)

Just how "wireless" are these headphones?

Most dedicated TV headphones come with a wireless transmitter. This transmitter connects directly to your TV, usually with either an optical digital cable or a 3.5mm miniplug. The transmitter then sends a strong, low-latency signal to the headphones for rich audio detail that stays in sync with the action on your screen.

The transmitter and headphones are generally paired right out of the box, so there's no need to re-pair them every time you watch TV. This makes getting started easier. And the range provided by these systems can extend up to a couple hundred feet or more, giving you plenty of room to move around during commercials or if you need to step away for a moment.

All of the Sennheiser RS Series wireless TV headphones on our list below include a wireless transmitter that shares these features. There's a reason this line of headphones has been one of our best sellers for years.

Can't I just use Bluetooth?

In short, it depends. Lots of TVs can send a Bluetooth signal to either a sound bar or a pair of headphones. Bluetooth is a great wireless technology for a lot of applications, but the latency, range, and bandwidth of Bluetooth can vary a lot depending on what device(s) you're specifically using. And the wireless transmission provided by dedicated TV headphones tends to outperform Bluetooth in these areas.

It's the low-latency transmission you get with TV headphones that's the biggest plus for most people. Nothing throws off your viewing experience like sound that's out of sync. Especially with dialogue, it can feel like a distractingly bad dub.

That being said, Bluetooth headphones that support aptX Adaptive or other high-quality codecs can be a great fit. Like many other kinds of technology, Bluetooth advances over time, so there are more and better options now than there were even a few years ago. In fact, our true wireless pick below happens to use a high-bandwidth version of Bluetooth.

Sony's WLA-NS7 wireless transmitter is a great example of a middle ground between TV headphones and standard Bluetooth headphones. This transmitter connects to Sony BRAVIA XR TVs via an optical cable or USB. It can then send a Bluetooth signal to a wide range of Sony's great-sounding wireless headphones like the popular WH-1000XM5. It uses Bluetooth 5.0 and supports the SBC Low Latency codec, allowing to pass even high-bandwidth formats like Dolby Atmos.

Best wireless TV headphones, by type

The list below breaks down our favorite picks by style and fit of headphone: over-ear, in-ear, and true wireless. Plus, we've included an extra pick for budget-conscious folks looking for maximum bang for their buck. These picks should help you find something that's comfortable and works for you.

Sennheiser RS 195 wireless TV headphone system

Best over-ear TV headphones — Sennhesier RS 195

The Sennhesier RS 195 delivers crystal-clear sound for extended listening with thick, soft padding on its headband and earcups. The extensive 18-hour battery life ensures you're not running out of juice in the middle of the action. The transmitter also acts as a dock that charges the headphones while you're not using them.

These high-quality 'phones have an over-ear design that helps keep out external distractions, so you can focus on what you're watching. And easy-to-use controls are built into the right earcup, including volume and a variety of listening modes that help you personalize the sound for your needs.

Details

  • over-the-ear, closed-back design helps keep out external noise
  • connect to TV with either the included optical digital or stereo 3.5mm miniplug cable
  • multi-receiver mode enables two people to listen to the same source (requires additional compatible headset)
  • wireless range: up to 328 feet (line of sight)
  • battery life: up to 18 hours with a full charge using the included batteries

Sennheiser RS 5200 wireless TV listening system

Best in-ear TV headphones — Sennhesier RS 5200

The lightweight Sennheiser RS 5200 are easy to comfortably fit in your ear, with four different eartip styles to choose from. There are two pairs of standard silicone tips, one pair of foam tips that are acoustically transparent so you can maintain awareness of your environment, and a pair of closed memory foam tips with a noise-isolating seal for when you want to shut out the world.

These in-ear headphones feature 12-hour battery life and a convenient transmitter that acts as a docking and charging station. They even turn off automatically while not in use to save battery power.

With several listening modes and presets accessible on the lanyard's controls, including a speech boosting button, you can easily customize your sound to fit your needs, too.

Details

  • lightweight "stethoscope-style" lanyard receiver with attached in-ear headphones
  • connect to TV with either the included optical digital or stereo 3.5mm miniplug cable
  • four pairs of eartips for proper fit and comfort
  • RF wireless transmitter range: up to 200 feet
  • built-in rechargeable battery provides up to 12 hours of operation

Sennheiser TV Clear Set true wireless TV earbuds

Best true wireless TV headphones — Sennheiser TV Clear Set 2

The Sennheiser TV Clear Set 2 combines the flexibility and convenience of a "true wireless" design with reliablity of a dedicated pair of TV headphones. A transmitter connects directly to your TV and is paired with the earbuds right out of the box. You can also use Bluetooth to pair with other devices, like your phone, letting you jam to your favorite tunes or take hands-free calls.

You can adjust the volume, pick up (or hang up) calls, control music playback, and more with tactile controls built into the earbuds. You can also access the controls and tinker with your settings via the free Sennheiser TV Clear app for Apple® and Android®.

The earbuds hold up to 15 hours of battery life and can be charged by being placed inside the included carrying case, which banks up to 22 additional hours of power. You can also wirelessly recharge via compatible Qi chargers (sold separately)

Details

  • 100% wire-free earbuds with no connecting cord between left and right earbuds
  • wireless connection to transmitter or any Bluetooth-enabled device
  • transmitter connects to TV with either the included optical digital or stereo 3.5mm miniplug cable
  • "Ambient Awareness" mode lets you hear external sounds and voices
  • Bluetooth wireless transmitter range: up to 60 feet
  • built-in rechargeable battery provides up to 15 hours of operation
  • carrying case banks up to 22 hours of power to wirelessly recharge headphones

Sennheiser RS 175 wireless TV headphones

Best value for TV headphones — Sennheiser RS 175

The Sennheiser RS 175 have been one of our best-selling pairs of TV headphones for years, hitting just the right cross-section between price and performance. These comfy over-ear headphones feature selectable sound modes including virtual surround sound and a dynamic bass boost that can be accessed with the built-in earcup controls.

The rechargeable battery lasts 18 hours and can be charged by docking the headphones on the transmitter. If you have an extra headset on hand (sold separately), you can watch TV with a partner while you both listen at volume levels that suit your separate needs. No more fighting over the remote!

Details

  • over-the-ear, closed-back design helps keep out external noise
  • connect to TV with either the included optical digital or stereo 3.5mm miniplug cable
  • multi-receiver mode enables two people to listen to the same source (requires additional compatible headset)
  • wireless range: up to 328 feet (line of sight)
  • battery life: up to 18 hours with a full charge using the included batteries

Get started today!

We have an assortment of excellent headphones. But if you need help finding exactly what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our friendly Advisors.

Free lifetime tech support is included with your Crutchfield purchase.

Popular questions customers ask

Wireless TV headphones can aid in your perception of voices. Some models have advanced surround sound processing, which can help isolate voices and make them clearer in the mix. Others have modes can compensate for hearing loss and boost common speech frequencies to make dialogue more intelligible.

Most models have some form of volume adjustment available right on the earcups. Some also include controls for different listening modes, bass boost, and left/right channel balance.

Most wireless TV headphones have either an analog 3.5mm connection or an optical digital connection (or both). The good news is that most TV headsets come with the cables you’ll need to make those connections.

Wireless TV headphones can last anywhere from 12 to 20 hours on a single charge (depending on the model) before they need to go back on their charging cradle.

Wireless TV headphone systems come in two parts: a transmitter and the headphones. The transmitter gets hooked up to your TV. Once it's connected, go into your TV’s settings and pick the right audio output (optical or 3.5mm, often listed as "headphones" or "headphone output"). The transmitter then takes the signal from your TV and sends it to the headphones.

Please share your thoughts below.

  • carlos from Winnemucca

    Posted on 1/8/2023

    I would like to send TV audio to both the TV speakers and wireless headphones (simultaneously). I am open to whatever TV set, sound bar or other hardware might be required. Suggestions?

    Commenter image

    Colin M. from Crutchfield

    on 5/9/2023

    Hi Carlos, you'll need a TV that supports simultaneous audio with an audio output. Most TVs that do will also require you tinker with the settings to make sure that simultaneous audio is active. From there most TVs will this option will be able to output sound to a pair TV headphones with a wireless transmitter while still playing through the built-in speakers. To make sure you've got everything you need to accomplish this I would suggest working with one of our Advisors. They'll point your towards the right TV and/or headphones. :)
  • Georgina Valdes from Miami, Fla

    Posted on 4/10/2022

    I have a Thoshiba smart tv withe a fire stick and I need some reccommendations which is the best and easy wireless headphone for this TV, thanks,

  • venkat from Chennai, India

    Posted on 3/19/2022

    I am from Chennai, India. I am 95 years old with hearing impairment. I have bough Senheiser RS120II RF headphone and connected to my Samsung smart tv. I had lot of difficulty in tuning correctly because of my age. And also the sound which used to be loud enough and clear now has become scratchy. perhaps something is to be service I do not know. what is your suggestion. do you suggest that I should go in for better RS headphone and if so what. thanks

  • John Patterson from Buffalo

    Posted on 10/25/2021

    I want to hookup headphones with surround sound TV does not have bluethooth, can I buy a bluethooth transmitter to get surround sound

    Commenter image

    Jeff Miller from Crutchfield

    on 11/1/2021

    John, Bluetooth will pass along a stereo (2-channel) signal, but some headphones do a pretty good job of adding extra depth and space.
  • Patricia Okonczak from Cheektowaga

    Posted on 12/23/2020

    I have a Sony Bravia LCD digital TV connected to a direct TV box which as a USB port. Will it work if I connect the wireless headphones right into the direct tv box? I have trouble hearing and the speakers on the tv are in the back.

  • Jim WALTON from Sebastopol, CA

    Posted on 8/21/2020

    Jeff: First ... this is a superb summary. I found it most helpful. I found you AFTER exploring the potential use of Bluetooth earbuds with our Samsung UN43RU7100 TV. I went with Samsung Galaxy buds--assuming that Samsung with Samsung would work well. After updating the TV firmware, I managed to pair the buds with the TV, and I managed to configure dual audio outputs--TV speakers and the buds. The speakers continued to work just fine, but the output from the buds was dismal ... and Samsung does not provide any way to adjust the volume of the buds. I think this is a generic issue when earbuds (primary use is smartphones) are paired with a TV. You might want to mention this in your summary. I found mo mention of this issue in any of the reviews or sales materials. Again, a great summary.

    Commenter image

    Jeff Miller from Crutchfield

    on 8/24/2020

    Thanks, Jim. I will mention something about this...I've heard of other earbuds that had this problem.
  • Tom Rodriguez from Liberty Hill

    Posted on 7/20/2020

    Hi Jeff, I am doing some research on wireless headphones. I am leaning toward the RS-175. I presently have a Samsung UN75JU6500 TV , a Denon AVR-X1200W and an ATT cable top box. If I went with the RS175, how would I hook it up in order to hear audio from the headphones and the TV? Thanks Tom

  • F. Jackson from Coto de Caza, CA

    Posted on 5/21/2020

    I am interested in the Soundcast VGT to use with my Yamaha RX-V685 receiver to watch TV. I would like to connect using the optical cable out of the receiver to the Soundcast unit. Then I want to bluetooth connect to my Apple AirPods. Do you see any issue with this type of setup? Or do you have any other recommendations?

    Commenter image

    Jeff Miller from Crutchfield

    on 5/26/2020

    Frank, this should work!
  • Tracy Houston from Long Beach

    Posted on 5/1/2020

    Hi Jeff so my 17 year old son plays his PS4 alot for gaming and also uses his pc to talk online for school now and for other stuff . He has a Vizio TV model # D32f-E1 approximately 3-4 years old perhaps but he says it's not exactly a "smart" tv. But... he has Netflix, can't be too old then right. Anyway, I can't afford a Ferrari version of equipment as that money will go toward his upcoming transition from high school to university life. He has a Skull Candy wireless headset model # type Hash 2 wireless L series that's about as old now as the tv (he says ! ) I think it's time for a new headset that will do both. Can you recommend anything ? Thank you.

    Commenter image

    Jeff Miller from Crutchfield

    on 5/6/2020

    Hi Tracy. Sounds like he wants Bluetooth headphones. A nice bang-for-your-buck model is the Cleer Enduro 100. The sound is really clear and powerful for game and movie sound. And it also offers up to 100 hours of battery life.

    If he's looking for a more traditional gaming headset, the new JBL Quantum 800 has Bluetooth built-in, along with several other ways to connect to the PC and PS4. When connected to the PC via USB, it has a really cool app to control surround sound.
  • Tracy Houston from Long Beach

    Posted on 5/1/2020

    Hi Jeff so my 17 year old son plays his PS4 alot for gaming and also uses his pc to talk online for school now and for other stuff . He has a Vizio TV model # D32f-E1 approximately 3-4 years old perhaps but he says it's not exactly a "smart" tv. But... he has Netflix, can't be too old then right. Anyway, I can't afford a Ferrari version of equipment as that money will go toward his upcoming transition from high school to university life. He has a Skull Candy wireless headset model # type Hash 2 wireless L series that's about as old now as the tv (he says ! ) I think it's time for a new headset that will do both. Can you recommend anything ? Thank you.

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