Many states are now making it illegal to drive while using a cell phone unless it is operated hands free. So if you still plan on using your cell phone while driving, you basically have two options (unless your car is bluetooth enabled). You can either get a wired headset, or a wireless bluetooth headset. Each type has its own distinct advantages, but in this buying guide only bluetooth headsets will be discussed. To learn about wired headsets, see the Wired Headsets Buying Guide.
Many people choose bluetooth headsets in order to avoid getting tangled up in wires and being able to keep their phone in their pocket while talking. Though this is possible with a wired headset, it tends to be uncomfortable as the wire can be pulling against your shirt. Some bluetooth headsets let you stay connected to your phone from up to 30 ft away or more. This means you can go about your work in a room or office without having to take your phone along with you.
The benefits of bluetooth headsets are somewhat obvious, but you may find yourself disappointed if you buy a model that isn't exactly what you had imagined. Below, you'll find a list of things that our product specialists recommend our customers to consider when buying a bluetooth headset.
Microphone: It might be of significant importance to you for the microphone to work well in noisy environments. Check to see if the headset's microphone has noise-canceling capabilities so that the person on the other end only hears you, not your surroundings.
Connection range: You should consider the distance that the headset can stay connected away from your phone. If you want a headset that will allow you to walk across a room or an office without having to take the phone with you, you should get a headset with a range of more than 30 ft.
Comfort: A headset with great features that isn't comfortable won't do you much, because you'll never want to wear it. The comfort level of a particular headset is more a matter of personal preference; but having an idea of the type of design you want can definitely help. Some models come with ear gels in an attempt to increase the level comfort you experience, which may be something you should consider. Make sure the headset is lightweight and is capable of being attached to your head (or ear) securely, so it doesn't fall off every time you move.
Compatibility: Make sure your cell phone is bluetooth enabled. Bluetooth must be turned on in order to "pair" the headset to your phone for a continuous connection. If your phone isn't bluetooth enabled, you should consider getting a wired headset instead.
Battery life: When considering the battery life of the headset, focus a little more upon the talk time life rather than the idle time. Having a headset that lasts long while idling is great, but if it runs out after 20 minutes of use there's really no point.
Features: Some headsets can transmit in stereo, allowing you to play music in addition to talking to others on the headset. This could be great if you are looking for headphones as well as a headset. Note that the cost associated with this feature will be higher than those headsets without it.
Other features include buttons to pick up a phone call, to reject a call, to put a person on hold, or even to switch to the other line. Determine what you need, and what you want as far as features go, and you will be a lot closer to the headset that best suits you.
Definitions:
Bluetooth: Bluetooth is the name of a radio technology that connects electronic devices without the use of a wire (Wireless).
Bluetooth enabled phone: A phone that is bluetooth enabled is capable of receiving or transmitting bluetooth radio waves from or to other electronic devices.
Noise-canceling microphone: A microphone that is designed to cancel surrounding noise so that it is not broadcasted or recorded.
Pairing: Connecting two compatible bluetooth-enabled devices together wirelessly.
