Everything you need to know when choosing the best Bluetooth hearing protection and our top picks.
| Name | Form-factor | NRR | AM/FM Radio | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3M Worktunes Connect + AM/FM Best Overall | Over-ear | 24 | Y | BUY |
| Walker's XCEL 100 String Runner-Up | Over-ear | 28 | N | BUY |
| PROHEAR 030 Best Budget | Over-ear | 22 | N | BUY |
| Honeywell Sync Wireless Earmuff Best for Calls | Over-ear | 25 | N | BUY |
| WULFPOWERPRO Bluetooth Earmuffs Best Noise Reduction | Over-ear | 29 | Y | BUY |
| ISOtunes PRO 2.0 Best for Active Lifestyles | In-ear (Neckband) | 27 | N | BUY |
| Peltor Sport Tactical 500 Best for Shooting | Over-ear | 26 | N | BUY |
| ISOtunes Free True Wireless Most Lightweight | In-ear (True Wireless) | 22 | N | BUY |
| Caldwell E-MAX Shadows Best for People with Mild Hearing Loss | In-ear (True Wireless) | 23 | N | BUY |
| Walker's Silencer Most Comfortable | In-ear (True Wireless) | 23 | N | BUY |
How to Pick the Best Bluetooth Hearing Protection
The dangers of hearing loss are all too real with over 20 million U.S. workers being exposed to hazardous levels of noise at their workplace each year. About 20% of those people end up with serious hearing loss.
Hearing protection should be taken seriously especially if your workplace or hobby has high levels of noise.
That’s why it goes without saying that it is important to be able to pick the correct hearing protection device (HPD) in scenarios when you are at risk of exposure to hazardous levels of noise.
However, a lot more thought needs to be put into making this decision, especially if you want added features such as the ability to connect your HPD to your audio source (for example, your mobile phone) through Bluetooth.
In order for you to be able to make an informed choice, simply ask yourself these questions:
- What is the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) label?
- Is it comfortable and does it fit properly?
- Does it support Bluetooth?
- How long is its battery life?
- Can it play AM/FM radio?
- How good is its music quality?
- How good is its call quality?
Before buying a hearing protection device with Bluetooth capabilities, here are the following factors you should keep in mind when making your purchase.
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)
The Noise Reduction Rating label, or NRR for short, is the hearing protection device’s ability to reduce the amount of incoming external noise to the ear. Manufacturers use this number label to allow users to know just how much noise an HPD reduces in decibels.
However, NRR ratings are the result of highly controlled tests with optimal conditions in dedicated testing facilities. These situations almost never happen in real-world applications due to the possibility of human error and improper usage or fitting of the corresponding HPD.
As such, a process called derating needs to be done in order to get a more realistic value of the hearing protection a HPD provides you with. Derating is important as it allows you to get a more accurate look at how many decibels of noise your device is actually reducing, rather than relying on a highly conditional advertised value.
Depending on the manufacturer’s region and standard for hearing protection attenuation, they sometimes make use of the Single Number Rating (SNR) instead of NRR. SNR is more or less similar to NRR in a way that it gives you a rough estimate of how much noise a given HPD reduces.
Comfort and Fit
The overall comfort and general fit of your Bluetooth hearing protection device are some of the more important factors you should consider. You’ll most likely need to wear your device for several hours at a time, which means you need to be sure you’re comfortable wearing it for that long while retaining a proper fit.
In the case of HPDs, this starts with the choice between earplugs and earmuffs.
When it comes to comfortability, people tend to lean more towards earplugs than ear muffs. This is mostly because ear muffs are heavier and can sometimes interfere with other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
However, earplugs are harder to put on and remove than earmuffs and require clean hands to avoid ear infections.
Wearing a Bluetooth hearing protection device that is uncomfortable or doesn’t fit you may result in you taking them off at inopportune times, thus exposing you to hazardous noise levels, putting you at risk of noise-induced hearing loss.
The best kind of Bluetooth hearing protection is one that does its job well while also making you forget that you’re even wearing it in the first place.
Bluetooth Stability
There are many factors to consider when talking about Bluetooth stability. These are the Bluetooth versions, Bluetooth codecs, and even factors on your surroundings that might cause interference.
If possible, pick a hearing protection with Bluetooth Version 5 so that you can enjoy more speed and better stability in your Bluetooth connection, as well as a wider range of signal/distance from the transmitter.
For more information on Bluetooth’s features and limitations, check out the Bluetooth headphones section of our article comparing the 3 different types of wireless tv headphones.
If this is a problem for you, then it may be a good idea to purchase a Bluetooth hearing protection device that also supports wired connectivity through AUX input.
With that said, audio problems are quite common for Bluetooth headphones. However, if you’re experiencing any problems, like when you can’t connect your headphones to your PC, or Mac, or any other problems, resetting your headphones usually solves these problems.
Battery Life
With wireless devices, battery life is an important factor to consider. The better the battery life, the longer playback time you will get on a single charge.
Each has its own benefits and it often comes down to personal preference when choosing one over the other.
Devices with built-in batteries require you to charge them when the batteries are drained, meaning you will experience some downtime where you are unable to use the device.
On the other hand, a device with replaceable batteries allows you to have little to no downtime since all you have to do is just replace the battery. The only downside is that you have to consistently purchase batteries in order to use the device and the amount of money you spend adds up over time.
Availability of AM/FM Radio
AM/FM radio headphones have the ability to pick up radio stations broadcasting on AM/FM channels. While standalone radios are quite uncommon now, you’ll find that many cars still have them. Even though many prefer the convenience of streaming over the internet, radios are able to work without an internet connection, and at greater distances.
For HPDs, built-in AM/FM radio functionality allows you to listen to your music, even without your phone or any audio device source with you. This is perfect in situations where you’re unable to use your phone to change music or carry your phone with you.
And, because they don’t rely on WiFi, they’re great for those who are often on the move. Ear protection with radio and bluetooth ensures that you’re always listening to music, even in areas with poor internet coverage.
While a useful addition, not all HPDs come with AM/FM radio functionality. Therefore, those that do may come with additional costs.
Sound Quality
Just because your Bluetooth hearing protection device primarily serves to protect your hearing, doesn’t mean that you have to compromise on sound quality. However, this is up to personal preference as some people might want headphones that provide you with a balanced sound signature over ones that boost bass frequencies or ones that favor trebles & mids.
In general, sound quality refers to the clarity of the track and the accuracy of each sound being played back. The closer the headphones can recreate each sound to its original source determines how good the sound quality is overall.
As HPDs, by nature, are heavily focused on noise isolation, their closed-back design can result in a poor sound stage to be OSHA-approved Bluetooth earmuffs. Additionally, since the earcups of HPDs form really tight seals around the ears, you’ll find that they suffer a lot of proximity effect, which results in muddy bass that overpowers other frequencies.
That’s why HPDs that support stereophonic sound are recommended as it helps create a wider sound stage and can greatly improve your overall listening experience.
Mic Quality
Besides sound quality, getting good call quality in your Bluetooth hearing protection device is crucial as this will often allow you to communicate clearly even in the noisiest of environments.
For this, your mic should be equipped with noise reduction technology.
Mic noise reduction is commonly done using one of two technologies: Digital Signal Processing (DSP) or Clear Voice Capture (CVC). DSP captures environmental noise, processes it, then produces a reverse soundwave to cancel it out in real-time. Similar to how it’s done with noise-cancelling headphones. CVC is software that intelligently works to focus on your voice and negate surrounding noise and loud noises.
Additionally, the type of mic you get is important. In-line mics perform poorly in noisy environments due to their small size and poor placement. Boom mics are generally preferred. Their larger size allows them to capture more audio. And, because of the boom pole, they can be positioned directly in front of your mouth to capture your voice.
10 Best Bluetooth Hearing Protection in 2022
3M Worktunes Connect + AM/FM
Key features
- NRR: 24dB
- Playtime: 20 hours
- Microphones: Integrated microphone
- Bluetooth Version: 4.2
- Support for AM/FM radio
- Audio assistive technology
- On-ear controls for easy use
Wearing the 3M WorkTunes Connect + AM/FM Hearing Protector bluetooth earmuffs allows you to effectively block out external noise thanks to the 24 NRR.
Their built-in support for both AM and FM radio signals, in addition to Bluetooth, put them at the top of our list. They also include a safe volume control that self-adjusts to safe listening volumes to protect your hearing.
These are also easy to navigate. You will find the controls for volume and radio tuning on the right earmuff. And, the Audio Assist feature lets you know what radio you’re listening to and allows you to save your favorite radio stations conveniently.
Moreover, as they rest around your ears, the gel ear cushions help to relieve pressure so you remain comfortable no matter the activity.
While most people may think that having to use two AA batteries is a flaw, you can actually pick up a compatible rechargeable lithium battery (at an additional cost) to save you money on replacement batteries in the long run. Plus, you can purchase spare batteries so you’ll never run out of listening time.
However, although an integrated mic is included, it struggles to pick up your voice. When it does, your voice sounds like it’s at a distance from the mic. It would be great to see a retractable boom mic, as this is one of the only areas where the 3M Worktunes Connect HPDs fall short.
Walker’s XCEL 100
Key features
- NRR: 28dB
- Playtime: 20 hours
- Microphones: Omnidirectional mic
- Wind noise reduction technology
- Four listening modes
Coming in close are the Walker’s XCEL 100 HPDs. Whether you’re at the shooting range, doing some yard work, or simply working in a noisy environment, Walker’s Bluetooth ear protection enables you to do so without worrying about outside noise intruding on your listening experience.
You can switch between four listening modes based on where you are, including Universal, Speech Clarity Mode, High Frequency, and Power Boost. The mic is also equipped with active dynamic sound suppression and wind noise reduction to clearly capture your voice while on calls.
The Walker’s XCEL 100 run on two AAA batteries. Although rechargeable batteries are generally preferred, the ability to replace the batteries on-the-go can be useful if you rarely have access to a power source.
These have sturdy, all-plastic construction with an ergonomic headband for improved comfort. Clamping pressure is also enough to stay in place without feeling too tight. And, the controls are easily accessible from the headband instead of the ear cup to reduce the number of holes on the ear cup and improve the NRR.
PROHEAR 030
Key features
- NRR: 22dB
- Playtime: 36 hours (Bluetooth mode)
- Microphones: 2 built-in omnidirectional recessed microphones
- 2 volume control knobs (Bluetooth and ambient noise)
- Headphone jack: 3.5mm AUX input jack
- Ergonomic and low-profile design
The PROHEAR 030 Electronic Shooting Ear Protection Muffs allow you to have a great outdoor hunting and shooting experience. Their slim design and convenient Bluetooth syncing provide you with reliable hearing protection that is easy to bring while on the go.
Equipped with two mics, the PROHEAR 030 Electronic Shooting Ear Protection Muffs allow you to have better communication without having to take the headphones off.
These headphones also let you have a wired or wireless connection to your phone. You can either sync them through Bluetooth or use the 3.5mm AUX cable equipped for your connection. This flexibility allows you to use the device even if they are low on charge.
Thanks to the adjustable padded headband, you can expect a comfortable wearing experience that doesn’t get in the way of your shooting. These do this through the added cut-outs at the lower part of each earmuff which gives way for the gunstock of your gun.
The PROHEAR 030 have a noise reduction rating of 22dB, and a sound amplification feature for hunting purposes, with a reaction time of 0.01 seconds to reliably reduce sudden loud noises while the amplification is turned on. This gives you just the right amount of noise reduction while still allowing you to have full situational awareness and accurately detect the directions of sounds.
The PROHEAR 030 Electronic Shooting Ear Protection Muffs have two volume knobs that control the Bluetooth/AUX input volume and ambient noise accordingly. This allows you to customize what you want to hear and how loud you want to hear it.
Just want to listen to some music? Turn up the media input volume while lowering the ambient noise level. Need to have a conversation with your buddy at the range? Just lower the media input volume while increasing ambient volume. The volume knobs allow for anything and anywhere in between.
They are, however, lacking in the volume department. Even when turned all the way up, it’s obvious that the volume could be louder especially when compared to other Bluetooth Hearing Protection Devices.
Honeywell Sync Wireless Ear Muffs
Key features
- NRR: 25dB (SNR: 32dB)
- Playtime: 16+ hours
- Microphones: Rotating boom microphone
- Bluetooth Version: 4.1
- Allows for both wired and Bluetooth connection with audio devices
- Premium headband made with rugged steel construction
- Volume management technology limits output volume to 82dB
- Built-in rechargeable battery with USB charging cable and wall adapter
The Honeywell Sync Wireless Ear Muffs let you work and talk wirelessly while keeping you safe from hearing loss. The device’s boom microphone outputs crystal clear audio that only picks up your voice even when talking in loud or noisy environments. It also rotates easily out of your line of sight when not in use to avoid distractions.
The Honeywell Sync Ear Muffs headband have a tough steel core that adds more durability and improves the overall lifespan of the ear muffs. The headband and ear cups also have added padding for extra protection and comfort.
Thanks to their volume management technology that limits sound output to 82dB, the Honeywell Sync Wireless Ear Muffs help to protect our hearing further against damage caused by prolonged listening to loud music. They also make use of air flow technology which provides noise reduction across all frequencies without sacrificing comfort and breathability.
With an NRR rating of 25dB and an SNR rating of 32dB, the Honeywell Sync Wireless earmuffs provide the proper amount of hearing protection so that you can enjoy your work and hobbies safely.
One of the drawbacks of this device is that they may not fit all head shapes. You may experience a tight and uncomfortable fit especially if you have a large head.
WULFPOWERPRO Bluetooth Ear Muffs
Key features
- NRR: 29dB
- Playtime: 10 – 12 hours
- Microphones: Built-in noise-cancelling microphone
- Supports wired and wireless connection to devices
- Seamless switching between two connected Bluetooth devices
- Can scan FM digital radio station frequencies
- Rechargeable battery and LCD display
The WULFPOWERPRO Bluetooth Ear Muffs are a great option in providing you with proper hearing protection in all kinds of loud environments and activities. You can mow the lawn, operate heavy machinery, do landscaping work, and any other activity that involves loud sounds without putting yourself at risk of noise-induced hearing loss.
With these ear muffs, you have a choice of either using a wireless Bluetooth connection or use a standard stereo jack cable for a wired connection. In addition, if you choose to use the Bluetooth syncing, you can connect up to two separate devices at the same time.
By connecting two devices, you can watch a movie on your tablet then switch to your mobile phone when picking up a call. You can do this without having to go through the hassle of manually connecting and disconnecting each device.
With an NRR rating of 29dB, these ear muffs provide the one of highest noise protection in this list.
With these on, you can be sure that you’re getting the efficient noise reduction you need in order to keep safe during your everyday noisy activities.
The WULFPOWERPRO Bluetooth Ear Muffs also support FM radio. That means there’s no need for you to connect to a device since this device has a built-in antenna with high reception sensitivity and channel memory. This allows you to scan your radio station frequencies and access your favorite programs. So if you’re the type of person who prefers to or sometimes wants to listen to your favorite radio station, then these ear muffs are definitely for you.
ISOtunes PRO 2.0 Bluetooth Earplug
Key features
- NRR: 27dB (SNR: 32dB)
- Playtime: 16+ hours (music and talk time)
- Microphones: Noise suppressing microphones with echo cancellation technology
- Bluetooth Version: 5.0
- Ultra-durable ear stem and redesigned ear hook
- Redesigned controller for a more rubberized tactile feel
- IPX Rating: IP67 for sweat, water, and dust resistance
- 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty
The ISOtunes PRO 2.0 are professional grade bluetooth hearing protection ear plugs that provide you with extra durability and usability in your daily life. They are also ISOtunes’ best-selling product redesigned.
There’s no need to worry about the fragility of this product as the ISOtunes PRO 2.0 feature ultra-durable ear stems of chrome-plated brass that is made to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. They also have ear hooks redesigned with more stability and an overall better fit in mind.
This device has a redesigned volume and music controller with larger rubberized buttons in order to give you that comfortable and tactile feel. The device’s pronounced buttons will allow you to control the volume without needing to look at the controller at all.
With an NRR of 27dB and an SNR of 32dB, you can be sure that you’re getting the ANSI-certified, OSHA-compliant hearing protection that you need.
Additionally, the background noise cancelling microphones allow you to make clear calls anywhere. Not only will you be able to hear the person talking clearly, they’ll also only hear your voice, even if you’re in the middle of a woodworking shop.
The ISOtunes PRO 2.0’s are a step up from the ISOtunes PRO’s, which only had a 10-hour battery and an IP55 rating. These improvements allow them to last longer and provide more protection against environmental conditions.
Peltor Sport Tactical 500 Electronic Hearing Protector
Key features
- NRR: 26dB
- Playtime: 42 hours
- Microphones: Durable recessed microphones
- Flexible connections through Bluetooth or 3.5mm audio jack
- Dynamic suppression time for safety and comfort when shooting
- Low-profile, lightweight and comfortable design
- Requires two (2) AA batteries, but has an option to use a rechargeable Li-on battery
The Peltor Sport Tactical 500 offer you reliable electronic hearing protection while still providing you with excellent comfort and overall good Bluetooth syncing performance. Moreover, this pair also has all the necessary features and more for recreational shooting. It shouldn’t be surprising that this one’s also listed as our top pick for the best hearing protection for shooting.
Thanks to its low-profile and lightweight design, these headphones won’t get in the way of your shooting. It has specifically designed cut-outs at the lower part of each ear cup in order for the gunstock to rest on while aiming.
The device feature a highly adjustable headband that can fit most head shapes regardless of size. Their headband also has cut-outs that act as ventilation in order to give you the most comfort during those long sessions, especially when wearing hats. These also feature a textured rubber-like shell foam for each of the ear cups which creates a comfortable seal around the ears.
The Peltor Sport Tactical 500 use dynamic suppression time, which measures the energy of each individual gunshot noise and sets the suppression time in order to reduce echoes and increase the overall comfort and experience of the wearer.
With an NRR of 26dB, you can be certain that you’re getting the protection you need to enjoy hunting or shooting at the range.
Although it says that this product runs on 2 AA batteries, you’re also given the option to use a rechargeable Li-ion battery. This product allows you to choose your charging options to fit your specific needs.
Their predecessors, the Peltor Tactical 300’s, only have an NRR of 26. The most obvious change, however, is the addition of Bluetooth, as the 300’s only allowed a connection through the 3.5mm audio jack.
ISOtunes Free True Wireless Earplug
Key features
- NRR: 22dB
- Playtime: 7+ hours per use, 21 hours total (3 full charges with charging case)
- Microphones: Noise suppressing microphones with echo cancellation technology
- Bluetooth Version: 5.0
- Heat-activated memory foam eartips
- IPX Rating: IP45 for sweat and water resistance
- 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty
The ISOtunes FREE are more than capable of providing you with a truly wireless experience so that you’ll no longer have to work with unwanted distractions. Weighing in at only 4.5 grams each, these earbuds are the lightest bluetooth hearing protection you’ll see in this list. These are also ISOtunes’ most compact and lightweight product.
Thanks to the ISOtunes FREE’s dual omnidirectional microphones that have CVC background noise cancelling technology, you’re free to make calls anywhere and at any time. Whether you’re wearing one earbud or both, you can easily make clear and crisp calls in noisy environments.
With the ISOtunes Free, you can go the whole day without needing to find an outlet to charge your device. They come with a protective case that also gives 2 full charges to your earbuds before needing a recharge itself. Each full charge gives you about 7+ hours of battery life. Since the protective charging case gives you two more full charges, giving you a total 21+ hours of battery life before needing to find an outlet.
Unfortunately, you may struggle to reach adequate listening volumes during noisy activities. Likely attributed to their small size, you’ll find that it’s a bit of a challenge to hear your music over loud noises, like operating heavy machinery.
Caldwell E-MAX Shadows
Key features
- NRR: 23dB
- Playtime: 5 hours
- Microphones: Dual-microphones
- 4-hour automatic shut-off
- Suppresses sound to a safe listening level
If you have mild hearing loss, the Caldwell E-MAX Shadows Bluetooth safety earplugs are great for protecting your hearing from further damage. You can also use the sound amplification feature to better hear your surroundings and the conversations you have with others. Plus, their low-profile true wireless design enables you to use them almost anywhere. That’s why it’s not surprising that these are recommended for people with mild hearing problems.
The dual-microphones also work great at capturing your voice loud and clear. They also filter out background noise. Rest easy knowing that everything you say will be discernable from whatever it is you’re doing.
Achieving the right fit is critical for blocking out unwanted noise. The Caldwell E-MAX Shadows come with 6 tip sizes to choose from so you can customize the fit to your liking. The tips are easy to remove and install smoothly.
They feature on-ear touch controls. Control volume levels by swiping up to increase them, or down to decrease them. The earbuds go into automatic pairing mode once you remove them from their charging case. This makes Bluetooth pairing a breeze.
Walker’s Silencer
Key features
- NRR: 23dB
- Playtime: 8 hours
- Microphones: Integrated omnidirectional microphones
- 4-hour automatic shut-off
- Four listening modes
If you’re one to prioritize comfort over everything else, the Walker’s Silencer earbuds are perfect for you. They come with 3 sizes of ear tips with their patented Sure-Lock system that includes a small hook that provides maximum comfort and fit. Even when performing strenuous and fast-paced activities, the earbuds will remain securely in place.
The on-ear controls make it easy to control your listening volume. You can also use the Walker’s Link app (on iOS and Android) to control your volume, auto-off settings, and change between four listening modes, including Universal, Voice Clarity, Hi Frequency Boost, and Power Boost.
The sound-activated compression feature suppresses gunshots as they occur. The integrated mics also come with dynamic wind reduction so you can take phone calls in windy environments.
Like the WULFPOWERPRO Bluetooth Ear Muffs, the largest drawback here is the battery. Although rated for 8 hours, you may find that your battery dies exceedingly fast. This fast discharge could be a result of lower quality batteries being used, but that is speculative. Bear this in mind if you plan to take them anywhere without a reliable power source, like hunting.
Notable Mention
Although the 3M Worktunes Connect + AM/FM took the number one spot on our list due to their additional features, the 3M WorkTunes Connect Hearing Protector HPDs from the 3M Bluetooth Ear Defenders range still deserve a mention for their reliability and effectiveness.
3M WorkTunes Connect Hearing Protector
Key features
- NRR: 24dB
- Playtime: 30 hours
- Microphones: Integrated microphone
- Compatibility with both Bluetooth and non-Bluetooth devices via 3.5mm audio cable (cable not included)
- Soft ear cushions and hat-compatible headband
- Single-button interface and audio/voice assist
- Built-in rechargeable battery with charging cord
The 3M WorkTunes Connect provides you with a modern and comfortable headphone design. It also has high-fidelity premium sound quality, proper hearing protection, and convenient Bluetooth capabilities.
For more details, check out our full review of 3M Worktunes.
The 3M WorkTunes Connect’s one-button interface and voice/audio assist allow easy navigation of the basic controls so that you can perform multiple commands just by using one button.
Some examples of these commands are:
- Press and hold to turn the device on and off
- Click once to pause/play
- Press twice to advance the music track
- Press three times to navigate to previous music tracks
- And more.
This device has a built-in rechargeable battery with an auto shut-off function. This is helpful to prevent battery drainage when you forget to shut off your device after use. It also has a battery indicator that indicates when to charge your device. The device is compatible with all standard USB chargers using the supplied Micro USB cable.
You can wear the 3M WorkTunes Connect for hours because of its lightweight design. The comfortable ear cushions will allow prolonged wear without causing fatigue or excess tension. The wireless feature also means that it is safer to wear while working as you don’t have to worry about the wires getting entangled.
However, some users complain that the music volume coming from the Bluetooth device is too low even at max volume. Also, some experience music drop-outs when turning their head away from the device at certain angles.
The single button 3m one is honestly pretty bad ergonomics wise. there is basically no room inside the cups for your ears so the speakers sit right on them. Because of this, wearing them for an extended period of time causes a sore spot on my ear. if I continue wearing them it eventually creates an open wound.
3M worktunes do not work with Echo devices
Thanks for a very thorough review. I think that your choice of the 3M Worktunes was an excellent one given the much higher cost of the others. I was involved with the initial development of the predecessor years ago when it was developed as a Peltor product.
Wow thanks John!