So you think Bluetooth is just for convenience—something you use when you’ve given up on “real” audio quality? Cute. The reality is that Bluetooth audio has come long way from the days of tinny elevator music and laggy connections. And while your earbuds might connect just fine, the real story lies in how they’re transmitting that audio. Enter: codecs. These unsung digital middlemen—like aptX, LDAC, AAC, and yes, even SBC—determine how much of your music actually makes it from your phone to your ears without getting steamrolled by compression.
If you’re streaming hi-res audio tracks using Qobuz over LDAC and wondering why they sound better than Spotify over SBC, that’s not a placebo—it’s science (and bandwidth). So if you’re serious about sound but still using whatever default codec your phone picked in 2019, it’s time for an upgrade—or at least some self-awareness. Let’s decode the codecs.
What Are Bluetooth Audio Codecs?
At a high level, Bluetooth audio codecs are algorithms that encode and decode audio files for wireless streaming usually including a fair amount of compression to help overcome Bluetooth’s bandwidth limitations, determining how much data is transferred and how efficiently. Each codec has different bit rate and audio resolution limits with varying error correction, and power consumption, directly impacting sound quality, latency, and connection stability.
Pro tip: Bitrate refers to the amount of data transferred per second and affects the overall audio quality and compression efficiency during Bluetooth streaming. Bit depth, on the other hand, is an audio term that indicates how many bits are used to represent each individual audio sample, impacting the dynamic range and detail of the sound.
The Main Bluetooth Audio Codecs: aptX, LDAC, AAC, SBC
We’ll now break down the most common Bluetooth audio codecs and explain their differences. Whether you’re an audiophile or just someone who wants to make sure their wireless headphones sound great, knowing these differences will help you make a smarter decision.
SBC (Sub-Band Coding): The Default Codec for Bluetooth
Overview: SBC is the baseline codec for Bluetooth audio. Every Bluetooth audio device supports it, but it’s not known for top-tier performance.
Pros:
- Universally supported by all Bluetooth devices.
- Suitable for casual listening.
Cons:
- Lower sound quality, especially for high-fidelity music.
- Higher latency compared to other codecs.
- Compresses audio up to 16-bit/48kHz (from 1.5 Mbps to 345 Kbps).
Why It Matters: For casual users or those just listening to podcasts or YouTube videos, SBC is “good enough.” But if you’re aiming for high-fidelity music, SBC won’t cut it.
Best for: Budget headphones, entry-level devices, and streaming services with compressed audio.
Why Apple Users Don’t Always Get the Bluetooth Codec They Want
When it comes to Bluetooth audio codecs, Apple users often face a frustrating reality: you don’t always get the best possible sound quality your headphones or ears might crave. Here’s the lowdown on what’s really happening under the hood.
AAC (Advanced Audio Codec) is the go-to Bluetooth codec Apple devices use. It’s definitely better than the bare minimum SBC codec that all Bluetooth devices must support, but make no mistake — AAC is still a lossy codec. AAC can compress up to 16-bit /44.1 kHz (1.4 Mbps) to a maximum bit rate of 320 Kbps, which means some detail is lost in transmission. While Apple’s ecosystem natively supports AAC on iPhones, iPads, and Macs, it’s optimized primarily for Apple hardware and may not perform as well when paired with non-Apple Bluetooth headphones.
On the other hand, some may be confused about ALAC (Apple Lossless Audio Codec). This is Apple’s lossless audio file format. It is not a Bluetooth codec. ALAC files are compressed from their original source and stored for playback. They can be transmitted wirelessly over WiFi with AirPlay where band bandwidth is less constrained
Here’s the kicker: Apple devices do not support other popular high-quality Bluetooth codecs like aptX or LDAC. These codecs, favored on many Android devices, can offer higher bitrates and better sound quality over Bluetooth. Apple’s refusal to support these means you’re stuck with AAC or fallback to SBC on Bluetooth headphones — even if your headphones support aptX or LDAC.
The Bluetooth Codec Reality for Apple Users
- SBC: The mandatory baseline codec for Bluetooth audio. It’s the lowest common denominator in quality but always supported.
- AAC: The “best” codec Apple offers over Bluetooth — better than SBC in some ways but still lossy, actually a downgrade on sampling frequency and sometimes inconsistent on non-Apple headphones.
- aptX & LDAC: Not supported natively on Apple devices, so no hi-res Bluetooth streaming here.
- ALAC: Not a Bluetooth codec. Used for lossless playback on device or via AirPlay over WiFi.
aptX & aptX HD: The Go-To for Audiophiles
Overview: aptX is a codec designed to deliver better sound quality than SBC and AAC, while aptX HD is a more advanced version offers greater audio fidelity. The key differences are their bitrates. Regular aptX works up to 384 Kbps, while aptX HD jumps to 576 Kbps with up to 24-bit/48kHz audio.
Pros:
- aptX delivers higher sound quality than SBC and AAC with lower latency.
- aptX HD offers high-definition audio, ideal for audiophile-grade sound.
- Low latency, making it suitable for gaming and video watching.
Cons:
- Requires both the source device and Bluetooth headphones to support aptX.
- Not supported on Apple devices.
Why It Matters: aptX and aptX HD are the go-to for audiophiles and anyone who wants superior wireless sound, especially for higher-quality streaming services like TIDAL, Qobuz or Deezer. Sorry Spotify.
Best for: Android users with high-quality Bluetooth headphones or audiophiles seeking the best wireless sound.
LDAC: The Hi-Res Audio Champion
Overview: LDAC is Sony’s proprietary codec, and it’s designed for high-resolution audio over Bluetooth. Although it’s still a lossy codec it supports bitrates up to 990 Kbps with hi-res audio up 24-bit/96kHz, enabling audiophile-grade sound quality.
Pros:
- Supports hi-res audio, ideal for audiophiles.
- Supports three different transfer rates (330 kbps, 660 kbps, 990 kbps) for varying quality and connectivity.
- Maximum bit rate 990 Kbps.
Cons:
- Requires compatible devices on both ends (source and headphones).
- Higher bitrates can be prone to connectivity issues, especially with weaker Bluetooth signals.
- Doesn’t work with Apple Devices
Why It Matters: For the highest possible Bluetooth audio quality, LDAC is the king. It’s especially valuable for people who listen to lossless or high-res audio files, making it a favorite for serious audiophiles.
Best for: Sony fans, Android users with high-res audio libraries, and audiophiles looking for the best wireless experience.
LE Audio & LC3 – The Future?
The next-generation Bluetooth specification, Bluetooth LE Audio, is ushering in a host of exciting features, thanks in part to the LC3 codec (Low Complexity Communication Codec). It promises improvements that could change the way we experience audio, particularly for Bluetooth users. But there’s another emerging player in the wireless audio field: aptX Lossless. Let’s dive into both, so you know what’s coming in the future of Bluetooth audio.
What is Bluetooth LE Audio & LC3?
At the heart of LE Audio is the LC3 codec, designed to improve Bluetooth audio for multiple reasons:
More Efficient Audio at Lower Bitrates
One of the primary improvements with LC3 is that it can deliver better audio quality at lower transfer bit rates. This means that even with lower bandwidth, you’ll still enjoy clearer, richer sound than you would with older codecs like SBC. It also makes Bluetooth streaming more power-efficient, leading to longer battery life for devices like wireless headphones and speakers. LC3 introduces true 32-bit support with a maximum sampling rate of 48kHz.
Lower Latency
Latency is the delay between the signal being sent and the sound reaching your ears. High latency is a problem for real-time uses like gaming, video streaming, or communication apps. LC3 reduces latency, ensuring that audio syncs perfectly with visuals, which will be a game-changer for watching movies or playing games on Bluetooth-connected devices. It also enhances the overall real-time audio experience, making it more usable for apps like Zoom or FaceTime.
Support for Broadcast Audio
One of the most exciting features of Bluetooth LE Audio is broadcast audio, which is also called Auracast. This allows one device to transmit audio to multiple Bluetooth receivers at once. Think concerts where everyone can hear the same performance on their own earbuds, or public spaces like airports and cafes where multiple people can listen to the same news broadcast or music playlist. It opens up exciting possibilities for shared listening experiences without the need for cables or a traditional speaker setup.
No Licensing Fees
Bluetooth LE Audio also has no licensing fees, unlike rival wireless tech like Qualcomm’s aptX. Which could translate to lower asking prices for compatible devices.
Improved Long-Distance Sound Quality
Bluetooth LE Audio also improves long-distance sound quality thanks to Periodic Advertising Enhancement. Instead of endlessly repeating data, devices now confirm delivery with a single check—cutting down on energy use, reducing dropouts, and potentially boosting battery life.
Improved Hearing Aids
Bluetooth LE Audio is a game-changer for the massive and growing hearing aid market. With its energy-efficient design, users can expect longer battery life and smaller, more discreet devices—no more bulky hardware just to stay connected. Microsoft has even rolled out Bluetooth LE Audio support in a Windows 11 Preview Build, allowing users to pair hearing aids directly with their PC for calls, music, and audio streaming. For millions relying on hearing aids, this isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a quality-of-life revolution.
How Does it Work And Will My Device Support it?
To use Bluetooth LE Audio, a device must have Bluetooth 5.2 or higher—but not all devices with these versions support it. Both the source (phone, tablet, etc.) and the listening device (wireless headphones, speakers) need LE Audio compatibility. However, since most LE Audio devices also support Bluetooth Classic, they’ll still work together, just without the full benefits.
Devices like the Google Pixel 7/8, Samsung Galaxy S23, Galaxy Z Fold 4, and Galaxy Z Flip 4, along with headphones like the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, OnePlus Buds Pro 2, and Earfun Air Pro 3, support LE Audio.
However, the AirPods Pro 2 and Sony WH-1000XM5 aren’t included, as Apple and Sony prefer their own higher-quality codecs (AAC and LDAC) over Bluetooth LE Audio’s LC3.
Bluetooth LE Audio and the LC3 codec are still rolling out, but they are expected to become more readily available in 2025.
aptX Lossless: The New Kid on the Block
While LE Audio and LC3 are setting the stage for the future of Bluetooth audio, aptX Lossless is another important codec to consider. Qualcomm’s aptX family has long been a leader in wireless audio codecs, but aptX Lossless is the next level.
Uncompressed Audio Quality
As the name suggests, aptX Lossless promises true lossless audio which can scale up to about 1.2 Mbps in favorable RF environments with devices that support Qualcomm Bluetooth High Speed Link technology. Unlike other Bluetooth codecs that compress audio to varying degrees, aptX Lossless can deliver 16-bit/44.1kHz audio in its original, uncompressed form. This is ideal for audiophiles or anyone who cares deeply about preserving the integrity of the audio during streaming. Ultimately, aptX Lossless ensures the full range and detail of the sound is retained.
Low Latency
Like the LC3 codec, aptX Lossless also features low latency, ensuring that your audio syncs up with video seamlessly. This is a major upgrade over the standard SBC codec, which can often lead to noticeable lag between the audio and the visual, especially during gaming or watching movies.
Backward Compatibility
It’s important to note that aptX Lossless is not inherently backward compatible with aptX HD or aptX Adaptive. This means that if you’re using a device that supports aptX Lossless, it won’t automatically fall back to aptX HD or aptX Adaptive if the receiving device doesn’t support aptX Lossless. Instead, it would default to the highest supported codec, which could be aptX or SBC, depending on the devices involved.
Devices that support aptX Adaptive are generally backward compatible with aptX and aptX HD. This means that if you have a device supporting aptX Adaptive, it can handle aptX and aptX HD codecs with minimal issues, provided the hardware supports it.
Where Does aptX Lossless Fit In?
In a world where audio quality is becoming more and more important to users, aptX Lossless is an appealing option for those who want to maximize the fidelity of their wireless audio. While aptX Lossless currently has a limited rollout, we expect to see more flagship devices incorporating it in the coming years. If you’re an audiophile looking for wireless headphones or speakers that support true lossless sound, this codec could offer the most audio fidelity.
How Does LC3 Compare to aptX Lossless?
- Efficiency: While LC3 offers more efficient audio streaming, especially at lower bitrates, aptX Lossless stands out for those who want the most authentic, uncompressed sound.
- Compatibility: LC3 is rolling out as part of Bluetooth LE Audio, making it the future standard. However, aptX Lossless is a solution for audiophiles who want lossless quality today and are willing to invest in devices that support it.
- Latency: Both LC3 and aptX Lossless offer reduced latency, making them ideal for video, gaming, and real-time communication.
The Future: Bluetooth LE Audio & aptX Lossless
As Bluetooth LE Audio and the LC3 codec begin to roll out, they’re set to be the go-to standard for Bluetooth devices starting in 2025. However, aptX Lossless is positioning itself as the premium choice for those who crave true, uncompressed audio. Whether you go for the efficiency and versatility of LC3 or the lossless quality of aptX, Bluetooth audio is about to get a whole lot better.
In the coming years, we’ll see a broader shift toward higher-quality wireless audio, and the competition between LE Audio and aptX Lossless will likely determine which codec becomes the top choice for audiophiles and casual listeners alike. If you’re ready to dive into the future of wireless audio, now is the time to start looking for devices that support these emerging standards.
Final Recommendations Based on Devices
For Apple Users (iPhone, AirPods, Beats)
If you’re streaming music on Apple devices via Bluetooth headphones, you’re most likely listening over AAC — or SBC if AAC isn’t available. This means your wireless sound quality is good but not truly lossless or audiophile-grade. For lossless or hi-res streaming, AirPlay over Wi-Fi is your best bet in the Apple ecosystem.
Quick Pros and Cons of AAC on Apple Devices
Pros:
- Better connectivity than SBC with similar audio quaility
- Native support across Apple devices for seamless playback.
- Efficient compression keeps streaming stable over Bluetooth.
Cons:
- Still lossy — some audio detail is sacrificed.
- Performance can vary with non-Apple Bluetooth headphones.
- Doesn’t support true hi-res or lossless Bluetooth streaming.
Bottom Line
Apple users hoping for top-tier wireless sound quality are often limited by Apple’s codec choices. AAC is decent but not lossless, and your Apple device won’t let you use aptX or LDAC Bluetooth codecs unless used with a USB-C Bluetooth dongle such as the Sennheiser BTD-700 that supports such features.
For Android Users (General)
Recommendation: aptX or aptX HD
USB-C Bluetooth dongles also work with Android phones, but may not be needed. Many recent premium Android smartphones come with aptX Adaptive built-in, which will provide significant improvements over the default SBC codec. AptX HD supports 24-bit audio, delivering higher resolution audio compared to standard aptX. However, it’s important to note that aptX Adaptive is not backward compatible with aptX HD, meaning devices supporting aptX Adaptive will default to aptX if paired with aptX HD devices.
For Audiophiles Seeking the Best Wireless Audio
Recommendation: aptX Lossless (if supported) or LDAC
aptX Lossless delivers CD-quality, 16-bit, 44.1kHz lossless audio over Bluetooth, but both transmitting and receiving devices must support it. LDAC is another excellent choice, supporting high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/96kHz, and is widely supported on Android devices.
For Future-Proofing (2025 and Beyond)
Recommendation: LC3 (Low Complexity Communication Codec)
LC3 is part of the Bluetooth LE Audio standard and is designed for better efficiency and lower latency. It’s expected to become the standard codec in devices starting in 2025. Devices supporting Bluetooth LE Audio will likely adopt LC3 as the primary codec.
Note: Always ensure both your transmitting and receiving devices support the chosen codec to achieve the desired audio quality.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, aptX Lossless is the premium choice for audiophiles, while aptX HD and LDAC offer significant upgrades for Android users. If you’re in it for the long haul, LC3 and Bluetooth LE Audio are the future, especially for anyone buying new devices over the next few years. Make your pick based on your current tech and audio preferences, but rest assured, wireless Bluetooth audio is on the cusp of some exciting improvements.