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| | | A Bluetooth headset is a wireless device commonly used to allow a cell phone user to talk without having to hold the phone to their face. This is particularly useful for talking while driving, with more state laws requiring "hands-free" devices. Other Bluetooth headsets can be used for listening to audio on a computer or a media player. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Bluetooth headsets cost as little as $10 or as much as $300, depending on audio quality, features, battery life and other factors.
- A number of decent headset models are priced at between $35 and $60, such as the Motorola H550 ($12 street price) or the Plantronics Explorer 230 ($20 street price). While these models are modestly priced, they may not have the advanced voice technology of more sophisticated models.
- Models in the $60 to $120 range include the Nokia BH-701 ($70 list), the Motorola H780 ($60 -$70) and the Plantronics Voyager Pro ($100 list). These models tend to sound better than the entry-level models and have a more comfortable design, but they still may lack the capabilities of higher-end headsets.
- Models above $120 include the Aliph Jawbone Prime ($130 list). It's called the Jawbone because it picks up the user's voice, not with a microphone, but by detecting the vibrations in their face as they speak. Other higher end models include the Plantronics Voyager 815 ($56 -$72) and the Avaya -35+ ($210 -$270). Among the features that make the Avaya pricey is its ability to handle both cell phone and desk phone calls, an important feature for professionals.
What should be included: | - Features to look for in a Bluetooth headset are call quality, battery life, design and form factor.
- Form factor refers to whether the headset is inserted in the ear, like the Plantronics Discovery 925 ($54 -$133 sale) Still other headsets have two earpieces for stereo sound and have a band that crosses the back of the user's neck, such as the Nokia BH-501 ($40-61 street).
- Call quality is improved through a process called noise cancellation, which isolates the caller's voice and reduces background noise, enabling someone to talk while in a noisy environment. For example, the Motorola H 15 has a feature called "CrystalTalk," and lists for $130 ($59 -$99 street). The Aliph Jawbone Prime ($130 list) comes with "NoiseAssassin."
- Battery life is measured by both standby time and talk time. Talk time ranges from just four hours to more than eight hours, depending on the model. The Samsung SBH-600 ($119 street) claims talk time of more than eight hours.
- There are also Bluetooth headsets that work not just with a cell phone but also with a computer or other device. The Plantronics Voyager 510 USB ($68 -$165 street) is designed to work with Voice over IP services, such as Skype, as well as with a cell phone. Bluetooth also works with media players such as Apple's iPod Touch, which has all the features of an iPhone except the phone. Apple announced in March 2009 that the iTouch now supports Bluetooth. The Samsung SBH-600, noted above, also works with both phones and media players.
- Most cell phones these days have Bluetooth software installed on them to "pair" the headset to the phone so that they can exchange a signal. Still, shoppers need to confirm that the model is compatible with their phone. Most web sites of manufacturers or retailers have a link on the product page that lists which phones are compatible with the headset.
Additional costs: | - Most headsets come with replacement "ear foam" or "ear tips" that cover the earpiece and make for a more comfortable fit in the ear. Plantronics sells a package of three ear tips for $5 specifically designed for its headsets.
- Headsets usually come with a battery charging cable, but if they are lost, Plantronics sells replacement chargers for from $11 to $15. Motorola sells a car lighter power adapter for $30.
Discounts: | - Some carriers give away a free Bluetooth headset with the purchase of a new phone and service contract. As of June 1, 2009, Verizon Wireless was offering a promotion.
- Cell Phone Shop offers discontinued models at substantial discounts.
Shopping for a bluetooth headset: | |
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Article updated August 2009 |
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