Which wireless bluetooth headset is best for your phone? Comparative review of the 6 best models

What is a wireless Bluetooth headset for a phone

Despite the fact that the data transmission format called “blue tooth”, or Bluetooth, was developed in 1990, it still remains the most popular and is used in all models of smartphones, mobile phones, laptops or even televisions.
The main advantages of this wireless communication standard include stability and the almost complete absence of distortion when transmitting even audio information from the source directly to the headphones. FOR YOUR INFORMATION!

At the dawn of the format’s formation, it did not guarantee a high speed of information transfer, but the gradual development and improvement of the version has led to the fact that the modern protocol even allows the transfer of media content. The range when using Bluetooth is 10–20 meters, depending on the power of the transmitter itself generating the signal. This is often enough to pair a mobile phone and wireless headphones or headsets. The headset is simple in design - it has an ear pad, a speaker, a microphone, a Bluetooth receiver and a plastic case. The principle of the protocol is to use special radio waves passing in the IMS range. This allows you to increase the frequency of channel changes to improve security when using wireless data transmission.

Multiple frequency changes prevent other devices with Bluetooth from affecting signal reception/transmission. This protocol has its advantages and disadvantages, which should be taken into account if you want to buy a Bluetooth headset for your phone.

Despite the disadvantages, the advantages prevail, and the ability to completely free your hands when talking on a mobile phone is the determining criterion when choosing a wireless device.

Types of devices

The Bluetooth adapter in a modern phone consists of hardware and software parts that allow you to wirelessly transfer materials from one device to another. The technology uses radio waves of a certain frequency, which is why Bluetooth can only be used between devices that are close to each other.

A Bluetooth peripheral is a universal unit that allows you to transfer certain amounts of information or make regular connections using wireless communication. At the same time, the Bluetooth structure is accompanied by a large list of a wide variety of software parts that are developed by modern companies. Thanks to this, the performance characteristics of Bluetooth, while becoming obsolete in some technological aspects, become very relevant in others.

Wireless Bluetooth headphones for your phone: how to choose

Most users choose a wireless headset based on its appearance. This parameter is essential, but not the main one, since an amazing technical potential can be hidden under a nondescript appearance, and a bright, unusually shaped device will produce mediocre sound. There are several criteria by which you should select wireless headsets. The operating time of the device will depend on the battery capacity

Working hours

Autonomy can be considered one of the determining parameters when choosing a wireless device, since it will be very unpleasant when the headset turns off at the most crucial moment of an important conversation. The choice of battery capacity will depend on the frequency of use of the device. If you plan to make multiple calls throughout the day, then it is better to choose powerful batteries.

IMPORTANT ! It should be taken into account that the further the wireless device is from the source, the faster the battery power is consumed, since it is constantly searching for a smartphone to maintain stable pairing. The average operating time of most modern headsets ranges from 4 to 9 hours when talking or listening to music. Devices charge in 1.5–2 hours. There are models on the market that have built-in solar panels, but their cost will be several times higher than usual. Modern monophonic headsets are an example of minimalism and the height of ergonomics

Ergonomics

The next factor that is taken into account when choosing the best Bluetooth headphones is ergonomics. This includes:

• weight. For long-term use, it is recommended to choose the lightest models so that your ears do not get tired;
• earphone type. They come in three varieties: in the form of earbuds that are inserted into the auricle, overhead ones that are held in the ears by means of a bow, and plug-in ones designed to be inserted inside the ear canal;
• temple size. If you plan to use a headset with an overhead earpiece, you should first measure it on your own head, especially if the person wears glasses, so that the device does not create inconvenience.

Version 5.0 has been finalized, but so far there are no wireless devices on the market that support this protocol

Bluetooth version

The rating of the best wireless headphones for phones includes models that have exclusively the most modern versions of the protocol. Currently, the optimal devices are those that support the 3.0 format.

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The latest version of the Bluetooth protocol is 5.0, which has already been finalized. But wireless headsets that support this format do not yet exist. Upgrading the version, as reviews from competent specialized publications show, affects the efficiency of battery consumption. For high-quality transmission of voice information or music, you should choose devices that support version no lower than 2.1.

Other selection options

There are many additional options that a modern wireless headset can offer. All of them improve the quality and comfort of using the gadget:

1. Headset . A function that is used to transmit all sounds produced by the phone to the headphones. This includes music, speech, notifications, and even the sound of keys when typing.
2. Noise suppression. The presence of a noise-canceling microphone in the headset allows you to minimize external background sounds, leaving only clear voice or music in the earphone. This is especially necessary when using a device with a sensitive microphone, which, in addition to the voice, can “capture” all surrounding sounds. Under ideal conditions, the range declared by the manufacturers reaches 10 meters
3. Profile A2D This profile is used to transmit a stereo signal. It will be important when using wireless headphones as a headset, since it will allow you to receive a signal from your phone or the Internet in stereo format.
4. Radius of action . This parameter will depend on the distance of the headset from the source of signal reception. Manufacturers often indicate that the maximum signal range is up to 10 meters. In reality, this can only be achieved under ideal conditions, when there are no obstacles between the receiver and the transmitting device. The working wavelength in the presence of physical barriers for reliable reception is from 3 to 5 meters.
5. Voice dialing capability . Many models of wireless Bluetooth telephone headsets with a microphone offer the ability to voice dial a number. Noise-cancelling microphone ensures clear sound and prevents outside noise from entering
6. Multpoint . A feature that allows the headset to be paired with two smartphones at the same time. When there is an incoming call from the second device, the user puts the first conversation on hold, and after completing conversations on the second line, he simply returns to it.

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Depending on the cost of the model and manufacturer, this can be a full-fledged call to a subscriber from the address book or simply picking up the handset when there is an incoming call. Additional selection criteria include the degree of protection of the headset from moisture. This will be useful for lovers of an active lifestyle and sports. The waterproof casing prevents moisture or sweat from penetrating inside. Also useful is the microphone mute function, which allows you to hide your speech from the interlocutor during a conversation.

Some advanced models are equipped with the ability to automatically adjust the volume depending on the external noise level. There are even headsets for motorcyclists that remove sound vibrations in the larynx when talking. The presence of moisture insulation will ensure the safety of the device when exposed to rain

Briefly about the main thing

A few important aspects:

• The presence of IPX4 and higher moisture protection will save the headphones from drops of sweat or light rain. Among the models with bone conduction of sound, there are options for swimming in the pool.
• Sensitivity indicates the magnitude of sound pressure and is measured in dB. Headphones with a sensitivity of 100 dB can drown out the noise from subway cars or the roar of the crowd. High sound pressure negatively affects the hearing organs, gradually dulling it. The human pain threshold is 120 dB.
• Compact “ears” are controlled via mechanical or touch keys located on the earbuds. Advanced devices use an accelerometer. The volume level is changed using voice assistants.
• The Bluetooth protocol operates at the same frequency as microwave ovens, Wi-Fi routers and other equipment - 2.4 GHz. This can affect connection breaks and distortion of compositions.
• Due to imperfect technology, there may be audio delays when playing games or watching videos. Look for headphones that support gaming mode.
• The presence of NFC simplifies pairing between the “ears” and the smartphone.

Basic types of wireless headsets

There are two main types of devices for wireless communication support, which differ in their purpose and functionality.

Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

A stereo headset is a headphone that can be in-ear (in-ear) or full-fledged with ear pads. The choice of a specific type will depend on the subjective preferences of the user and the degree of comfort desired. Full-fledged ones have the maximum degree of noise reduction provided by the ear pads. Full-fledged headphones provide the highest quality sound and comfort, but not everyone likes large “ears” on the head. In-ear headphones, which are inserted into the ear canal, will be the best choice for athletes, as they provide compactness and fit securely in the ear.

The weakest link is the false “ears”, which cannot be worn for more than 3-4 hours, since constant pressure on the auricle leads to painful sensations. The on-ear type puts too much pressure on the auricle, which can lead to pain during prolonged use. When choosing wireless headphones, if, in addition to talking on the phone, you plan to use them to listen to music content, you should pay attention to support for codecs that provide better sound transmission:

1. SBC. A format that is as close as possible to the usual MP3, but is built on a slightly different principle - reducing the time it takes to calculate the output signal. The result is that all frequencies above 14 kHz are cut off, which can affect playback quality even at high bitrates.
2. LDAC . The codec that is used in Sony Bluetooth headsets, as it is developed by this company. This format produces high-quality sound that is comparable to wired headphones, but the downside is that the devices are limited to only one brand.
3. aptX HD . Codec used in the bulk of high-quality headsets. The resulting signal is as close as possible to Hi-Res sound with 4:1 compression and a bitrate of 576 kbps. Audio frequencies up to 48 kHz are supported.
4. ACC. The use of more complex computational algorithms allows you to achieve better sound quality than MP produces. The main thing to unlock the potential of this codec is that both devices support it.

Regardless of the characteristics of wireless headphones, the final factor when choosing a specific device will be the sound quality, which is determined by listening directly in the store.

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The opinion that using an equalizer will help improve sound quality is wrong. A low-quality codec cannot be made to sound perfect. The maximum that tuning gives is a change in the character of the sound. A headset on one ear allows you to maintain control over your surroundings, which is very convenient for drivers while driving

Bluetooth headset for phone on one ear

The second type of wireless headsets are monophonic headsets, which are an earpiece with a microphone attached to one ear. The main area of ​​application of this variety is talking on the phone, since the presence of only one playback channel will not allow you to fully listen to music.

The main advantages include compactness and low weight (10-12 g), which allows you to use the gadget throughout the day without discomfort. The absence of stereo headphones frees up the other ear. Therefore, a person can perceive external noises and not lose attention, which is very important for drivers.

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All controls for a monophonic headset are located directly on the body of the device, which is very convenient.

Modern technologies

Many wireless headsets are a little more functional than they seem. They can support the following Bluetooth profiles:

• AptX is a digital audio codec that allows you to listen to music in the highest quality, close to AudioCD. But not every smartphone supports this codec.
• A2DP - this technology allows you to receive full stereo sound on a Bluetooth headset.
• AVRCP - this profile allows you to remotely interact with a smartphone. Also, with its help, service information can be displayed or announced on a wireless headset - for example, the name of the caller.

Best Bluetooth headset for your phone: 2022 ranking

Monaural models

Bluetooth headset Samsung HM1100

An ultra-low-cost option that is suitable not only for a smartphone, but can also be used with a tablet or computer (for example, for voice communication on Skype). Supported Bluetooth version is 2.1. Among the advantages we can note the presence of the Multipoint function, voice dialing, dialing the last number, and automatic volume adjustment. The battery supports up to 7 hours of talk time. Cost – 600 rubles.

SAMSUNG BLUETOOTH HEADSET

Jabra Storm Bluetooth headset

A model belonging to the budget class, with a comfortable and pleasant design. Among the features, it is worth noting support for Bluetooth 4.0, the presence of an NFC function that allows pairing by simply bringing the headset to the phone, voice dialing, the presence of a noise-canceling microphone, and light weight. The cost of the device is 2200 rubles.

Jabra Bluetooth headset

Plantronics Voyager 5200

A premium option that features the maximum amount of functionality and a strict, business-like appearance. The headset has volume control, 4 microphones, NFC format support, includes 3 pairs of ear pads, Li-Pol battery, and water protection. The average cost of the device is 7,500 rubles.

Plantronics Voyager 5200

Stereo models

Samsung Level U Pro ANC

A headset with an overhead earpiece, which is suitable for sports enthusiasts. Distinctive features: support for almost all available codecs, Bluetooth version? 4.1, voice dialing, Multipoint functions. Battery talk time is 8.5 hours. Cost – 5100 rubles.

Samsung Level U Pro ANC

Plantronics BackBeat FIT

A model that will also appeal to morning joggers. The headset is a combination of high-quality earbuds and a rigid headband, which has a non-adjustable size. The advantages include an attractive appearance, Bluetooth 3.0 support, minimal dimensions, and moisture protection. Among the disadvantages, users include the high cost, which amounts to 7,000 rubles.

Plantronics BackBeat FIT

Sennheiser MM 450-X TRAVEL

Full-fledged headphones that support Bluetooth format. A distinctive feature is the impressive operating time - up to 20 hours of talk time. There is support for the aptX format. Despite their heavy weight (105 g), the headphones do not put pressure on your head. The model is also distinguished by rich equipment and convenient controls. A significant disadvantage may be the price of 15,900 rubles.

Sennheiser Bluetooth headset

How to connect a headset to your phone via Bluetooth

The procedure for connecting a Bluetooth headset to an Android phone is quite simple and includes the following sequential steps:

1. Enable Bluetooth function in settings. This can also be done through the notification shade by pressing the corresponding sign.
2. Press and hold the power button on the headset until the LED flashes.
3. On your smartphone, activate the search for available devices.
4. After finding the one you need, click “Pairing”.
5. You may be required to enter a PIN, which is usually 0000 or 1234.
6. “Connected” will appear on the screen in the list of devices.

The simplest diagram for connecting a headset to a smartphone

Why doesn't my phone see my Bluetooth headset?

Sometimes users of Bluetooth headsets from Xiaomi or other manufacturers experience situations where the smartphone refuses to see the device. The reasons may be as follows:

• the battery is dead;
• there is no synchronization between headphones and phone;
• the wrong accessory was selected;
• The function of automatically connecting added devices is disabled on the smartphone.

If problems cannot be resolved after checking all of the above points, it is recommended to contact the technical support service of the accessory manufacturer. This can be done on the website or by calling the hotline.

Conclusion

Wireless headphones are good because they do not have wires, but they still need power, so they are usually equipped with batteries that need to be recharged from time to time.

But we are already so accustomed to charging our smartphones every day that this procedure is unlikely to scare anyone. But, if you choose which wireless headphones to choose, then it all depends on where you are going to use them.

For example, in the car the ideal option would be a device with an infrared port, while on a walk - headphones with Bluetooth, and for those who are not particularly picky at home, a headset operating over a regular radio channel will be sufficient.

Author: Sergey Vladimirovich, electrical engineer. More about the author.