The Best Bluetooth Speaker and Wireless Earbuds Solutions to Step Up Your Audio Game

If you bought a cell phone, tablet or another media-playing device over the last several years, you may have thought at first that something was missing—what happened to the traditional (3.5mm) headphone jack? Beginning in 2016, Apple began phasing out the headphone jack in its mobile phones and tablets, with other leading manufacturers like Google eliminating the 3.5mm jack from their mobile phones in 2017, and Samsung eventually following suit in 2019. 

While the transition from dedicated audio ports in mobile devices initially gave way to a strange era of dongles and adapters, we have finally arrived at the age of Bluetooth and true wireless accessories, not just as fun novelty items, but as essential peripherals for audio media consumption and sharing at home or on-the-go. Bluetooth audio now provides both ultimate convenience and the highest levels of sound quality, rendering cables and wired options all but obsolete. What’s more, a wireless Bluetooth speaker or earbud set is the ideal medium for commercial branding and customization through PCNA. Read on to learn more about how Bluetooth works and the best wireless headphones and speaker options available. 

The decision by top mobile device manufacturers to phase out 3.5mm audio connectivity initially drew both ire and mockery, but critics and consumers alike have since realized just how many advantages the adoption of Bluetooth earbuds and speaker accessories offers:

● Superior phones/mobile devices – Removing the 3.5mm input has allowed manufacturers to design cellphones and other media devices that are overall better and more feature-rich, offering total waterproof capability, bigger screens with smaller frames, more interior space for bigger batteries (and therefore better battery life), and better sound quality via Bluetooth.

● Portability – When it comes to true wireless earbuds, it’s difficult to overstate how convenient and discreet they are. Most come with small carrying cases that fit in your pocket and charge the buds automatically, so they’re always ready to use. Moreover, most Bluetooth earbud sets can last you all day on a single charge of its case, meaning you don’t need to lug around a charger. And you can listen to music and other audio content, or even answer urgent calls discreetly in public using a single wireless earbud. Also, carrying around a Bluetooth speaker has never been more convenient. Many designs have gotten sleeker or smaller without sacrificing sound quality, making them the perfect accessories to keep in a car, briefcase or overnight bag so you can share music or other audio content whenever you want.

● Movement – Connecting to a headset or speaker system with cables tethers you to your device and inhibits you from moving around freely. Bluetooth wireless connectivity is ideal for exercising, doing household chores like cooking and laundry, running errands or even dancing around at a party while keeping the music going and the audio controls at your fingertips.

● Compatibility – Whether you are connecting to a speaker, set of wireless earbuds or even your car stereo system, Bluetooth is a universal technology. You’ll never have to worry about having the right brand of device with the right type of connector or scramble to locate an adapter at the last minute—Bluetooth pairing is simple, wireless and seamless. 

As a technology, Bluetooth is quite simple—in fact, it has been around for more than 20 years. The basic concept is that enabled devices in close proximity can connect directly to one another in order to transmit data using a radio frequency. Due to the relatively secure direct connection established— known as pairing— wireless data transfer using Bluetooth technology manages to offer impressive speed while consuming low levels of power. This makes Bluetooth an ideal mode of data exchange not just for mobile phones and portable audio, but also for wireless computer peripherals like a mouse and keyboard, smartwatches and fitness trackers, car media systems and other battery-powered tech accessories that rely on maintaining a constant link. 

When it comes to audio, Bluetooth makes wireless listening over a speaker or using earbuds or headphones a breeze.

Wire-free headsets have dramatically changed the way we consume audio content throughout the day. Whether we’re working out, traveling, gaming, at the office or running errands, Bluetooth earbuds and headphones allow us to enjoy music, audiobooks, podcasts and other media while courteously sharing physical space with those around us—and without our movement being constricted by cords or cables. Moreover, most cutting-edge wireless earphones come with a built-in microphone, so we can discreetly make and answer phone calls from just about anywhere. When choosing which type of Bluetooth headphones you want, it’s important to understand the options available and the advantages each style offers.

In the context of Bluetooth audio, “wireless” refers to headsets that connect to our devices wirelessly over Bluetooth and are designed as one single piece, such as in-ear earbuds that are connected by a cord and can hang around the neck or the more traditional, headband/earmuff style (on-ear or over-the-ear) headphones. Consider some features available in top wireless earphones and headsets:

● Active noise cancellation (ANC)

● Excellent battery life on a single charge

● Tactile controls for on/off, volume, answering calls and ANC toggle

● Studio-quality sound (many offer 3.5mm capability, with auxiliary cord often included for ultimate compatibility/versatility)

● Stereo calling standard

● Generally more durable/rugged

● Wide range of affordability

On the other hand, “true wireless” refers to sets of in-ear earbuds that have no physical piece (cord, headband, etc.) connecting one earpiece to the other, enabling ultimate freedom of movement. Each bud sits in the ear, and they can be used together or individually; the buds connect directly to our mobile phones over Bluetooth, and to one another as well. True wireless sets typically come with their own charging case which charges the buds automatically whenever they’re inside. Apple AirPods may be the most recognizable brand out there, but their most appealing features and more are available in the true wireless earbuds that PCNA offers:

● Ultra-portable/pocket-sized

● True wireless design allows for discreet use and unparalleled mobility while using

● Waterproof/sweatproof capability

● Touch/tap controls

● Snug, in-ear fit with different sized gels for comfort

● Automatic on/off, pairing and syncing

● Latest Bluetooth technology (Bluetooth 5.0) supporting high quality sound

● Charging case recharges the buds multiple times on a single charge of its own

Just as Bluetooth headsets and true wireless earbuds have changed the way we listen to personal audio content, the portable speaker has changed the ways and ease with which we share music and other audio media. Your Bluetooth speaker seamlessly connects to your smartphone, computer or other media player, instantly delivering impressive, high-quality sound wherever and whenever you need it—at the office, on vacation, at school, at a tailgate, at home or anywhere else you want to enjoy audio content among friends or colleagues. 

These days, the styles and features available in a new portable Bluetooth speaker are virtually endless—as is the range of price points at which they are sold. In general, though, there are certain features you should look for when considering your options:

● Battery life – A good portable speaker should give you plenty of hours of playback on a single charge, so you don’t need to bring a separate charger to keep it powered wherever you go.

● Convenience – You want a Bluetooth speaker that’s easy to toss into a beach bag or backpack without adding cumbersome size or weight. 

● Ruggedness – What use is portability if your Bluetooth speaker is too fragile? Choose an option that can withstand jostling and drops, food and drink spills, the environment around you and whatever weather comes your way. Most of the top-rated portable speaker models today even offer IPX-rated waterproofing.

● Sound quality – Compact design and ruggedness should never come at the expense of top-notch sound. Your Bluetooth speaker should be able to fill your space with appropriately loud, clear audio that sounds great regardless of genre or media type and suffers no distortions, even at its highest and lowest volumes.  

Wireless headphones and speaker sets all operate similarly. When you power on the accessory for the first time, you’ll need to pair it with your mobile phone, tablet or computer. You may be prompted to do so upon startup, or you may have to select your new item from the Bluetooth menu on your device. 

With most speaker and earphone/earbud models, you can pair as many devices to the accessory as you want. So, for example, you and each of your roommates could all pair your phones with a Bluetooth speaker stationed in your kitchen; however, only one device can be actively connected and in use at a time. Likewise, you can pair all of your devices with a single set of true wireless earbuds—your smartphone, your tablet, your laptop and desktop computers, for instance—but only one can play music through them at a time. 

Great news—once you’re paired, you’ll connect automatically when you power on the speaker or headphones. Some true wireless earbuds even power on automatically when you open their charging cases and connect instantly. And you can use the Bluetooth menu on your phone or another device if you want to switch devices/disconnect without powering off the accessory. 

You’ll have to charge your new wireless headphones or portable speaker periodically in accordance with its battery capacity. Typically, charging the item overnight using the provided cable (generally Micro-USB or USB Type-C) should give you plenty of juice for use throughout the day. Conveniently, you can track battery levels on your smartphone or other paired devices.

There are many factors to consider as you choose a wireless Bluetooth audio accessory from PCNA. What features are most important and useful to you? Read over the following guide for our picks of the best true wireless earbuds, Bluetooth headphones and portable speakers you can buy.

If you’re searching for an inconspicuous set of in-ear buds that packs impressive features into its tiny package, look no further than the Skullcandy Sesh Evo True Wireless Earbuds. Not only do these Bluetooth earbuds from Skullcandy offer all-day comfort with three sizes of ear gels for a custom fit, but their incredible battery life—up to 24 hours of playback time—ensures that the music will keep playing all day. And since they are splash and sweatproof, you can take these from the office to the gym to your commute and everywhere in between. 

The Sesh Evos are thoughtfully designed with convenient touch sensors that allow you to answer a call, scan between tracks, control the volume or even summon your device’s virtual assistant with your fingertips. Key features include:

● True wireless earbuds with built-in microphone and charging case

● Bluetooth 5.0

● 24 hours of playback time on a single full charge (5hrs earbuds + 19hrs charging case)

● Rapid charging (10 minutes for an extra 2hrs of playback)

● USB Type-C charging cable included

● Customizable fit with three sizes of ear gels 

● Touch controls

● IP55 Waterproof rating (can withstand sweat and light splashes/weather)

● Find Your Earbuds tracking with Tile™

● Packaged in a premium gift box

The Bawl True Wireless Auto Pair Earbuds and Power Case are a convincing AirPods alternative that doesn’t skimp on convenience. They power on and connect automatically to your phone upon removal from their charging case, syncing with one another instantly for seamless playback over Bluetooth 5.0. Built-in tactile controls allow for simple navigation through audio content and making/receiving calls, all without having to reach for your phone. And their ability to fully charge in less than one hour means that you’ll never have to worry about being without these earbuds for too long. Key features include:

● True wireless earbuds with built in dual microphones and charging case

● Bluetooth 5.0; working range up to 33ft

● Power Case fully charges itself in under one hour and charges earbuds at 2x speed

● Micro-USB charging cable included

● Auto-pairing and auto-power on

● Tactile controls on earbuds

● Ergonomic stemmed design

● Available in white or black

● Packaged in a premium gift box

If you’ve had trouble finding true wireless earbuds that fit securely and comfortably in your ears, the Skullcandy Indy Evo True Wireless Bluetooth Earbud set is the solution you’ve been waiting for. With multiple sizes of both stability ear gels and comfort ear gels provided, these earbuds with a popular stem design are sure to stay put in your ears without causing any discomfort. 

Their secure design, along with sweat and splashproof technology, make the Skullcandy Indy true wireless earbuds an ideal set for the gym or going for a run. Furthermore, they boast an extraordinary 30 hours of playback on a single charge of the charging case, so you’ll never find yourself digging around for a cable. Touch sensors in the buds allow for full control at the tap of a finger. Key features include:

● True wireless earbuds with built in microphone and charging case

● Bluetooth 5.0

● 30 hours of playback time on a single full charge (6hrs earbuds + 24hrs charging case)

● Rapid charging (10 minutes for an extra 2hrs of playback)

● USB Type-C charging cable included

● Trendy stem design

● Customizable fit with three sizes of ear gels and two sizes of stability ear gels included

● Touch sensors for audio navigation, volume control, call answering and voice assistant

● IP55 Waterproof rating (can withstand sweat and light splashes/weather)

● Find Your Earbuds tracking with Tile™

● Available in black or gray

● Packaged in a premium gift box

Made with natural materials, cork and cement, the Set in Stone Cylinder Bluetooth Speaker is notable for its minimal environmental impact and mission of sustainability. Consuming only three watts of power, this wireless portable speaker still manages to provide impressive sound quality and functionality. Key features include:

● Portable wireless Bluetooth speaker

● Constructed from sustainable natural materials

● Three hours of playback at max volume on one charge

● Micro-USB charging cable included

● Packaged in a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified premium gift box

The Bose SoundLink Revolve II is the audiophile’s ideal portable indoor/outdoor Bluetooth speaker. With its unique 360° design, this wireless speaker delivers stunningly crisp audio in all directions, making it the perfect centerpiece for any get-together. As durable as it is functional, the SoundLink Revolve II boasts water and dust resistance, an attractive, portable form factor and a built-in microphone for hands-free calls and digital assistance activation. Key features include:

● Portable wireless Bluetooth speaker

● Bluetooth 4.1 (up to 30 ft)

● 360° design; convenient, handheld size

● Up to 13 hours playback on a single charge

● Built in power on/off, Bluetooth, input mode, volume and multi-function tactile buttons

● IP55 waterproof rating (water/splash and dust resistant)

● Bose Connect app available for ultimate control and functionality

● Micro-USB charging cable included

● Packaged in a premium gift box

Spending hours in airports, train stations, on public transportation or even at work gets a lot easier with the Hush Active Noise Cancellation Bluetooth Headphones. This over-the-ear style wireless headset features luxurious memory foam earpads for all day comfort and up to 15 hours of stereo sound playback for even the longest trips. And with active noise cancellation (ANC), these Bluetooth headphones will block out distracting sounds whether you’re traveling or trying to concentrate in a loud office. 

The Hush headphones contain built-in microphones and tactile controls, allowing you to enjoy the fully wireless experience whether you’re watching a movie, listening to music or answering a call. Key features include:

● Bluetooth wireless over-the-ear headphones

● Active noise cancellation (ANC) blocks out 20-23 decibels of sound

● Bluetooth 5.0

● Up to 15 hours audio playback (up to 10 hours with ANC enabled)

● Built-in microphone

● Ultra-comfortable memory foam padding

● Tactile controls

● Folding/collapsible design

● Woven carrying pouch included

● 20” 3.5mm auxiliary cable included for wired listening

● Micro-USB charging cable included; fully charge in 2 hours

● Packaged in a premium gift box

Q: Are true wireless earbuds safe?

A: Yes. Some concerns have been raised about true wireless earbuds’ safety, particularly in regard to radio wave exposure and in-ear sound levels. Fortunately, research has shown that Bluetooth earbuds emit a much lower radiation frequency than a standard mobile phone. And while listening to any type of headphones at excessive volumes could eventually cause hearing loss, using moderate sound levels is perfectly safe with Bluetooth earbuds, presenting no greater or smaller risk than their wired counterparts.

Q: Is my Bluetooth speaker waterproof?

A: Yes, many portable wireless speakers are designed specifically to withstand splashes, rain or other weather and accidental spills. To learn about your Bluetooth speaker’s water resistance capabilities, refer to its IPX rating.

Q: Are true wireless earbuds an Apple AirPods alternative?

A: Yes. Apple AirPods are simply one style/brand of true wireless earphones. Countless other manufacturers offer options with similar functionality and design, as well as models with more comfort-focused design and expanded features.

Q: Can I connect my Bluetooth speaker to a TV?

A: While most TV sets today have built-in Bluetooth functionality, meaning that they can connect to a wireless speaker for basic audio, using a portable Bluetooth speaker for stereo, Dolby Digital or other more complex high-end sound systems is not always an option. Consult your TV’s manual for detailed information on its capabilities. 

 
Q: Can I connect my Bluetooth speaker to my phone?

A: Yes, a portable wireless speaker is a great tool for sharing music and other audio content directly from your phone whether you are at home or on-the-go. Many people use a Bluetooth speaker with a built-in microphone for easy, hands-free calls.

Q: How do I clean my true wireless earbuds?

A: It’s easy for Bluetooth earphones to accumulate dirt and grime over time, so cleaning your earbud set regularly is important. With regular use, it’s recommended to clean your wireless earbuds at least once a week using either cotton swabs or alcohol wipes. After powering off the device and cleaning each component carefully, dry each piece completely before reassembling and returning the buds to their case. You can also use an unused toothbrush, a silicone brush or even a can of compressed air to clean your wireless audio products. 

Not only will employees and clients appreciate the generosity of a high-quality Bluetooth audio device, but they’ll also give your eye-catching logo and branding invaluable exposure by using the devices out in public. All the top portable speaker, wire-free headphone and true wireless earbud options are available for customization from PCNA and offer exciting features that will help music, podcasts and other audio content become a fun and essential part of everyday life. To learn more about the products we offer, contact PCNA today. We are excited to assist with your next order.