A wireless headphone allows you to wander free, listening to music or taking a phone call.

There are basically three different technologies that make this possible.

Infra Red (IR) headphones use the same technology as your TV remote control. There are two big downsides to using IR technology for headphones. One, you have to be within line of site with the base unit. Two, the range is limited to about 30 feet.

That's OK if you are sitting in front of your TV or Hi-Fi, for instance. But not good if you want to wander around the room or into another part of the house.

Radio Frequency (RF) headphones offer more flexibility. You don't have to be in the line of sight with the base unit and you can wander far away – up to 400 feet or so.

This is great for listening to music without being tied by a cord to your music player.

The downside to both the IR and RF options is that you usually get a reduction in the quality of the sound. Even with the RF headphones, you may have to fiddle with the frequency on the base unit until you get the best reception. And even then, as you move around the house, you may find spots where the reception is less than perfect.

The most recent technology for the wireless life is, of course, Bluetooth.

Bluetooth was developed to connect electronic devices to networks. This enables computers to connect with printers wirelessly, for instance.

Bluetooth headsets and headphones have transformed how we interact with our computers, music players and cell phones.

With a Bluetooth headset you can not only roam free as you listen to your music, but can also quickly switch from music to phone call and back – depending on the device you are connecting to.

Bluetooth enables one to listen to music and answer phone calls when driving. This is a big plus when it comes to safety. You can also use the same headset or headphones to listen to music while outside jogging, exercising at the gym or simply walking in the mall.

One feature of Bluetooth you need to be aware of is that while the sound quality is excellent, it works only within a radius of up to 120 feet. (This depends on the device, so be sure to check. The distance could be as low as 30 feet.)

Which type of wireless headphones should you choose?

If you want your headphones principally for listening to music, there are some excellent radio frequency headphones. Some are over-ear headphones for high quality sound when you are in your home. Others use earbuds or earclips so you can still be wire-free when you leave the house.

If you have a cell phone that also plays your mp3s and you want to be able to switch between phones calls and music, then your best bet is a Bluetooth headset.

Check out the reviews in our wireless headphones category listing: Wireless headphones