What is Kleer Wireless Technology? GA S REGULAR Menu Lifewire Tech for Humans Newsletter! Search Close GO Internet, Networking, & Security > Home Networking 68 68 people found this article helpful
What is Kleer Wireless Technology and Where Is it Now?
And how does it compare to Bluetooth?
By Gary Altunian Gary Altunian Writer Gary Altunian was a freelance contributor to Lifewire and industry veteran in consumer electronics. He passion was home audio and theater systems. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on September 20, 2020 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Home Networking Wi-Fi & Wireless The Wireless Connection Routers & Firewalls Network Hubs ISP Broadband Ethernet Installing & Upgrading Audio and device connectivity uses several wireless technologies. Each has pros and cons. One in particular – Kleer – has been flying under the consumer radar while gradually making its way into more products. Bluetooth has taken the wireless speaker and headphone market by storm, so it can be easy to miss new releases featuring Kleer technology. But if you happen to appreciate wireless audio that doesn't compromise, then you'll want to start paying more attention to Kleer. Kleer (also recognized as KleerNet) is a proprietary wireless technology that operates in the 2.4 GHz, 5.2 GHz, and 5.8 GHz ranges, and can stream 16-bit / 44.1 kHz audio. Users can enjoy CD/DVD quality audio from up to 328 ft (100 m) with added perks. Bluetooth with aptX support can deliver "CD-like quality." Also, newer Bluetooth audio devices (e.g., Ultimate Ears UE Roll 2 speaker, Master & Dynamic MW60 headphones, Plantronics Backbeat Pro/Sense headphones) can maintain wireless distances up to 100 f (30 m). Kleer Versus Bluetooth
Despite Bluetooth's recent improvements, Kleer maintains a technological advantage with its low bandwidth use, low latency of sound, high resistance to wireless interference, ultra-low power consumption (better battery life by 8-10 times more, reportedly), and ability to support up to four Kleer-enabled devices through a sole transmitter. That last feature is particularly ideal for those interested in creating robust, brand-agnostic home theater systems and whole-home audio without the hassle of wires. Multiple listeners can enjoy the same movie through Kleer headphones, or different rooms can have Kleer speakers streaming from a single music source. Since products using Kleer technology are compatible and interoperable with each other, users aren't captive to a brand's ecosystem (e.g., Sonos). Although quite powerful in its own right, Kleer remains more of an unknown outside of audiophile, enthusiast, or home theater circles. Unlike Bluetooth, which permeates personal audio and mobile markets, using Kleer quite often requires a compatible transmitter/adapter. Smartphones and tablets are prized for their portability, so the average consumer is less inclined to deal with a dongle to stream CD-quality music to a set of Kleer headphones. As such, the options for purchasing Kleer-enabled headphones, speakers, or systems pale compared to that of Bluetooth. It might change if and when manufacturers choose to integrate Kleer technology into hardware as they have with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Those who wish to delve into and experience the world of wireless-streaming Hi-Fi audio through Kleer do have some options. Products are available from a list of reputable companies such as (but not limited to): Sennheiser, TDK (we've previously reviewed the TDK WR-700 Wireless Headphones), AKG, RCA, Focal, Sleek Audio, DigiFi, and SMS Audio. FAQ What are Kleer headphones? Kleer headphones use Kleer wireless frequencies instead of Bluetooth technology. Headphones that use this wireless technology offer exceptional lossless sound quality without audio compression. How does Sennheiser Kleer technology work? Sennheiser uses the Kleer radio frequency to relay lossless audio quality without compression in select headphones. That means audio sounds wired in a wireless format in models, including the RS 160, RS 170, and RS 180. Sennheiser Kleer headphones don't require pairing and use a wireless transmitter instead. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire Ethernet Cables, How They Work and How to Choose the Right One aptX Bluetooth Codec: Everything You Need to Know How to Make Wired Speakers Wireless The 8 Best Wireless Earbuds of 2022 What Is Wireless Home Theater? Which Wireless Audio Technology Is Right for You? How to Add Bluetooth Adapter to Your TV The 6 Best Bluetooth Audio Receivers, Tested by Experts What Was 3G Wireless Technology? An Overview of Wireless Networking Technologies Wireless Standards Explained: 802.11ax, 802.11ac, 802.11b/g/n What Is Bluetooth? The Ultimate Guide The Truth About Wireless Speakers for Home Theaters Whole House Audio & Multi-Room Music Systems How to Connect Your TV to an External Audio System What Is Bluetooth 5? Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies