Suryaa Business Desk: When buying wireless earphones, headphones or Bluetooth speakers, the technical details include 'Audio Codecs'... When buying wireless earphones, headphones or Bluetooth speakers, the technical details often mention 'Audio Codecs'. The speed and quality of audio data transmitted from the smartphone to the headphones through Bluetooth depends on these codecs. Let us know the performance of SBC, AAC, LDAC codecs which are widely used in the market today, the differences between them and which one is better for whom. 1. SBC (SBC Subband Coding): Basic level codec Uniqueness: This is the standard (default) codec that must be present in all Bluetooth devices. Every smartphone and Bluetooth audio device supports it.Bitrate: Provides data transmission up to 328 kbps maximum.Limitations: Highly compresses audio data. Due to this, the high-end details in the songs are lacking. Slight latency (audio delay) may be observed while gaming or watching videos.
It is suitable for normal calls and casual music. 2. AAC (AAC Advanced Audio Coding): Best for Apple users Special: Using advanced compression algorithms, this codec provides clear sound even at low bitrate.Bitrate: Around 250 to 320 kbps.Performance: AAC is well optimized for Apple devices like iPhone, iPad. But its performance varies depending on the processor performance and Bluetooth stack in Android phones. It is a standard high-quality choice for iPhone users. 3. LDAC: The King of Hi-Res Audio Uniqueness: Developed by Sony, this codec offers the highest quality in the Bluetooth field. It is available in almost all modern Android phones from Android 8.0 onwards.Bitrate: Transfers data up to 990 kbps (330/660/990 kbps dynamic range). It is almost three times faster than SBC.Performance: Can transmit 24-bit/96kHz high-res audio.
It is the best choice for audiophiles who listen to FLAC, lossless music. However, when the connection is weak or in crowded areas, the bitrate may decrease and audio drops may occur. Apple devices do not directly support this. In terms of sound quality: Undoubtedly LDAC is the best. If you want to enjoy original studio quality sound then choose headphones with LDAC support. For iPhone users: AAC gives the most consistent, best quality in the Apple ecosystem. For budget devices: Low cost earbuds, BC is perfectly adequate for basic needs.
