While wired headphones used to be the only choice, most headphone and earbud users have now transitioned to a wireless headphone option. Given how much time the average person spends listening to music and podcasts or making phone and video calls, it’s much more convenient and comfortable to remain untethered while at work or play.

The exception to this shift to wireless earbuds and headphones is in the recording industry. In sound and music recording, wired over-the-ear headphones are still considered the industry standard because they provide the most reliable, high-quality connection to recording equipment.

Meanwhile, within the wireless category, Bluetooth is the most widely used technology. In other words, most wireless headphones are Bluetooth headphones. Of the other connection options, infrared has the lowest interference risk but requires a line of sight between your device and headphones, and radio frequency has the longest range but is prone to interference from other radio frequencies in the area.

When choosing new headphones or earbuds, begin by deciding on the physical design that will work best. Earbuds are the smallest, lightest and most portable option. However, not everyone enjoys wearing something inside their ears. If you prefer headphones but also want something portable, then you might look at foldable headphones, which easily pack down.

For home or office use, wireless over-the-ear headphones can provide the greatest long term comfort, but they are bulkier than most other options. In any category, you may be interested in active noise cancellation. Noise-canceling headphones and earbuds help to block out ambient sounds from the environment around you so that you don’t need to increase the audio volume to hear well.

If you are making phone and video calls, you will need earphones or headphones with built-in mic. And if you are frequently on the go, you will do well to have a headphone case to protect your equipment and make it easier to find in your bag.