Bluetooth headphone codecs explained: SBC, AAC, aptX and LDAC

Every pair of wireless headphones compresses audio before it travels over Bluetooth. The method used is called a codec, and the one you end up with depends on both your headphones and your phone.

Why codecs matter

A codec balances sound quality, delay and connection stability. Both devices must support the same codec, or they fall back to the basic one.

SBC

SBC is the default every Bluetooth audio device supports. It is fine for podcasts and casual listening.

AAC

AAC is the codec iPhones use. On Apple devices it performs well; on some Android phones results vary.

aptX family

aptX, aptX HD and aptX Adaptive appear on many Android phones with Qualcomm chips. aptX Adaptive can lower delay for video and games.

LDAC

LDAC, developed by Sony, supports higher bitrates on many Android phones. At its highest setting the connection can be less stable in busy places.

What to check before you buy

• Which codecs your phone supports (check its spec sheet)
• Whether the headphones list the same codec
• Multipoint support if you switch between a laptop and a phone
• Battery life with noise cancelling on, not only off