Five Best iPhone Bluetooth headsets
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If you don’t mind looking like a pretentious wanker and annoying the life out of everyone in earshot, a Bluetooth headset is a must-have accessory for your Apple iPhone.
After exhaustive research, hundreds of hours spent people watching and consulting with my local iPhone “specialist,” this is the definitive list of iPhone Bluetooth headsets – the best of the best of the best. There are hundreds of the things available and just sifting through the sales pitches is enough to make you want to vomit. Motorola pitch one of theirs as, “Design perfection - the ultimate in style, comfort and convenience.” Sheesh ! The only thing I can think of that was design perfection is Audrey Hepburn, but they have to say something I suppose.
I have tried all these and I would say that they are noise reducing – not noise eliminating. For the most part, they pick up extraneous sounds and do a better job of eliminating sounds that come from the side rather than above, in front of or underneath them.
Just remember to take it off when you are having lunch at your local wine bar – it doesn’t look anywhere near as cool as you think it does.
And the kick-ass photo, "Not as cool looking as you think," comes from Joelogon. Thanks for the photo :)
Number One – The Aliph Jawbone Noise Shield
According to the manufacturers, this particular headset comes with an “Advanced, military-grade noise-canceling system which continuously adapts to your environment.” So maybe this particular model will be useful in the wine bar, who knows? Especially if the wine bar is in Detroit.
For once, I am not offended by the way a gadget looks and if I was buying a Bluetooth headset, I would probably allow myself to be persuaded to buy this one just because it was originally developed for DARPA (The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) to create a communication headset that would pick up voice in hostile environments. How could you resist? Bring on the explosions and sound of machine-gun-fire. Available in red, black or grey – disappointingly no khaki camouflage available. Maybe next year.
Heavily discounted to about $85 which tells me it was seriously overpriced in the first place. Issues as usual are the proprietary accessories - lose the cable and you are looking at a new headset.
 | Amazon Price: $40.34 List Price: $149.99 |
Plantronics Discovery 655 bluetooth headset
Once again heavily discounted to the point where this one is an extremely good buy. Definitely NOT worth $150 which is the RRP, but not you can buy them for about $65 – a good deal, I think. Not as “Cool” looking as the Jawbone and the usual sales pitch that describes it as, “the optimal road-warrior conversation piece!,” exclamation mark included. As if anyone wants to talk about your Bluetooth headset.
Plantronics do a couple of headsets and this is the top of their range. The Plantronics Voyager 510 bluetooth headset is also worth considering and at about $15 cheaper is a good budget headset.
The Discovery is small and almost guaranteed to get lost, but has a variety of charging options.
 | Amazon Price: $65.00 List Price: $149.95 |
![Plantronics Voyager 510 Bluetooth Headset [Retail Packaging]](http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41XB1238FJL._SL75_.jpg) | Amazon Price: $99.95 |
Latte Raspberry Mocha pink bluetooth headset
The name alone is actually enough for me and if you are looking for pink bluetooth headset, this is the one. This one is Bluetooth v.2.0 so has a better than average battery life – the makers claim 7 hours talk time and 170 hours standby, but then they are also claiming crystal clear sound and while it may be better than average, crystal it’s not.
It actually doesn’t sound too bad and the earpiece can be bent to fit your ear shape. As with all these, pretty heavily discounted, so for around $40, you are not going to kill yourself when you lose it.
 | Amazon Price: $59.00 |
Sony Ericsson HBH-PV705
One thing I like about this is that it sensibly comes with a strap, so you can look slightly less un-cool by hanging it around your neck when not using it.
Considering the light weight, it has a good sound quality. Not as heavily discounted as the others, but it wasn’t stupidly overpriced in the first place. Good battery life and the reputation of Sony Ericsson behind it. Available for around $43 – another good buy.
Solid, less likely to get lost. Worth the money and probably the best cheap bluetooth headset on the market.
 | Amazon Price: $49.95 |
Best bluetooth headsets for iPhone 3G
Since the introduction of the 3G iPhone, I have had numerous requests to do a bluetooth headset review on headsets suitable for that model. The ones above work perfectly well, but there have been a few improvements that mean a couple more adding to the list.
Plaintronics Discovery 925
For out and out sound quality, this one is extremely good. It does not do a great job of canceling out surrounding noises, but unless you are in a busy airport or some other public place, that is probably not going to be an issue.
As with all these - this one is also heavily discounted from the recommended price of $149.95 to around $70. Goodness knows why they don't just set a reasonable price in the first place. And as I was finding this on Amazon - which I still recommend as the best online place to buy electronics, I discover they now have a team of "cell phone experts," to help you from 9am to 9pm. Quite apart from how funny that is - it tells me they are still over priced if they can afford a team of "experts" 12 hours a day.
 | Amazon Price: $49.95 List Price: $149.95 |
Aliph Jawbone II Bluetooth Headset with NoiseAssassin
This is the updated version of the Jawbone, and is superb at canceling noises, in fact, they have even added a new feature called "Noise Assassin." Quite honestly, the sales pitch for this one is another one that will make you want to vomit. It is a bluetooth earpiece for goodness' sake.
They are selling it as "Not just a headset, it's Earwear."
If you have read this far, you know my opinion on people who wear these things as fashion accessories. Regardless - it does a good joband cuts out noise. The sound quality is not quite up to the plaintronics' quality though.
 | Amazon Price: $69.99 List Price: $99.99 |
Limitations
All of these headsets are limited by the fact that they just do not work as well as a wired headset and have limited battery life. Also, considering they are supposed to be wireless, you need a surprising amount of cables to charge them. The latest one from Apple requires ridiculous trouble to charge through either the iPhone or a dock. These are as good as it gets just yet and to my mind, these are all disposable. They are flimsy, will get lost easily and present a real challenge as to what to do with them when you are not on the phone. The whole point of the iPhone is supposed to be the fact that it’s all in one, and carrying a bag full of bits and pieces around makes no sense.
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CommentsLoading...
LOL - I agree. What makes me laugh is when they wear them while they are at the grocery store or in a restaurant.
Very true! :) I've often done double-takes when I walked past someone using one of these because I thought they were talking to theirself. LOL! And yet...here I am, shopping around for the best one so I can buy myself and my husband one. :)
LOL - They are useful, but they also look a little silly. Oh well - you can't have everything:)
lol, in the UK we call them Tommy tankers!;)
Yeah, I figured my American readers might not get that word :)
i can not see me buying one tomorrow.
Thank you.
Thanks for the referral
LOL - Me either. My pleasure. :)
Some of the designs are spectacular. I love the looks of some of them.
Thanks Rudra - You changed your picture. Is this you?
Thanks Mark and my profile, let me know what you think.
Will do.
I agree people look and sound strange with these on.
...but if they want to buy them then good luck to you.
(Not to them!)
GerryM
LOL _ yes they do. My main issue with them is that they are just about disposable. None of the cables work with anything else - they are very flimsy and easily lost. But they are useful if you are driving or can't be bothered to hold a phone to your ear :)
I've also done double takes thinking people were talking to themselves...But they do come in useful at times. I work PT as a Toll Collector (not right now though because I'm out on maternity) and of course you have certain people that always seem to call you when you're working (like your mom and other family and friends) and act like they forgot, even though you have the same schedule every week. Anyway, it makes it a little easier to not have to fumble with answering or holding a phone when trying to count change or give directions. Or as mentioned....driving. Other than that, I still think Bluetooths are overpriced.
The best Bluetooth headset is one that's been stomped into the ground and lit on fire.
You don't like them then ?
I think lighting it on fire is overkill, just stomping it into the ground should do the trick.
hehe. I am pretty sure they will all get lost or broken without outside assistance.
Hi Mark!!
GREAT Hub!!
I could hardly wait to get my BlueTooth and then was so disappointed I took it back!!
I screen my calls so there is no way to know who is on the other end accept to look at the screen!! By that time, the BlueTooth is useless!!
Thanks for the GREAT info however!! You're the BEST!!
Blessings, Earth Angel!!
My pleasure - Thanks for the compliments.
Makes me think of going shopping today.. Thanks for the info
Hmmm I don't even have a bluetooth phone, but yes they would be useful when driving as it's now 3 points on your licence in the UK plus a fine.
If I did ever get one though, I would try to conceal it under my hair, and definitely not wear shades, or I might end up looking like the guy in your photo at the top.
LOL - too true. I hope he doesn't sue. :)
Mark, your research is very thorough. I wonder how you keep track of so many products..
Good post..
Mark, people do a doubletake when they see me walking down the street or driving in the car because I AM talking to myself. I wasn't aware that was a problem. ;)
I guess I don't need a Bluetooth anytime soon, eh?
Very nice hub. I have not personally tried a bluetooth headset because, to be honest, I do not care to talk on the phone. I do, however, think they look cool.
Hi Mark,
Please tell me, how you multi task with your work and being a king in HUBPAGES, your comment is greatly appreciated.
Best introductory paragraph ever ;-)
I can see why headsets can be useful, but there's not much more annoying than being surrounded by a crowd of people seemingly talking in to thin air. Are they talking to you? Should you respond?
Gah!
LOL Thanks. They are annoying.
Where most of these seem to come up short is the fact that the iPhone is a great iPod, and the stereo sound is a great part of the iPhone experience. I'd love to see a stereo version, but candidly most folks are using Bluetooth just for the phone, which is almost secondary to me.
really sir i like them i was thinking of buying them
this hub help me alot thanku sir such a nice hub
Hi Mark -- thanks for <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/joelogon/481035167/&q my photo</a> (and yes, that is me -- the <a href="http://www.joelogon.com/blog/2007/05/i-am-now-blue entry that I used it for</a> is specifically about how people who wear Bluetooth headsets often look like douchebags.
I note, though, that you are using the photo without attribution -- the photo is published under a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic license, which means you're free to use it provided you attribute it. I appreciate your cooperation on this.
Thanks -- Joe
Absolutely - My apologies for not finding you. I have fixed it now. Sorry :)
I agree that bluetooth sets are dumb looking, but I just read something about brain surgeons always using headsets and recommending to there patients not holding phones up to their heads because there is no finished long term study on the effects of cell phone radiation. That being said, I think the key to not looking like a douche is to only put the thing in your ear when you are using it.
[johnr54 says:
3 months ago
Where most of these seem to come up short is the fact that the iPhone is a great iPod, and the stereo sound is a great part of the iPhone experience. I'd love to see a stereo version, but candidly most folks are using Bluetooth just for the phone, which is almost secondary to me.]
Agreed John. The first company that develops a blue tooth that will play the songs from your iPhone will get my business. In California now it is a law that you have to have some sort of hands-free device while driving. I end up using the iPhone Microphone Cord because it allows me to listen to music (even if it only in one ear) and still take / make calls hands free.
Good post Mark - I look forward to reading more of your reviews.
I definitely don't mind looking like a "pretentious wanker." I'm all about walking down the street and annoying people with my loud and obnoxious banter. Great post.
Randy - lol - Whatever works for you :)
I just wish some people would wear these things in their cars. I almost got hit by a driver today who didn't even notice ... later on a girl on a bicycle almost ran over my dog and she didn't notice either ... I don't care if people want to talk on their phones, just do it in a way that doesn't endanger other people. Most of these headsets are easily available for very little money if you consider the alternative: squished pedestrian or pet!
OMG.... thank you. As I was doing the boring but required research of bluetooth vs. wired headset I stumbled across this. I'm still laughing....and now just want to by the b/f one so that I can take a "not as cool looking as you think" picture of him.
Ok, I'm not that mean. I'm off to find out if you have one of these written about the wired headsets with mics for iPhone.
~Wendy
As interesting as the comments are disregarding the potentially positive side to wearing these devices, these fall under the same category cell phones themselves were in when they first hit the market. I remember being in a mall at a young age and hearing various negative comments about the few and far between individuals talking on clunky analog phones while shopping. As it's now the 'norm' to talk on cellphones in public places, it's just as quickly becoming so by sporting a headset to avoid holding a hot and annoying cell phone to your face.
LOL
Like I said - They are a must -have accessory :)
I actually like them, the bluetooth "thingy" as everyone calls them. I would have liked to have seen the Motorola H9 tested (by you, you seem to do a good job). I like it, if it works the way they say (which is not always as it is written up by the manufacture). Good "investigation" on each.
They have their place. I get a kick out of people at WalMart trying to look important and they never use the thing anyway.
LOL - Yes they have their place. I will be doing an updated test soon jmichael:)
Thanks for the comments
There's a one bad thing about bluetooth headset though; people could actually jack it so that they can eavesdrop your conversation.
Excellent well-written hub anyway...;-)
i am not really a bluetooth guy, but sometimes bluetooth can be very helpfull to our hands. Or when you stay at home and make a long long call... anyway this is a very interesting article, well done
Catch up to the 21st Century!!!
Nice headsets but sometimes people look funny when they use it, as if they are talking to themselves
I encountered someone in a crowded movie theater with a friggin' blinking bluetooth light flashing. That lasted about 5 minutes before I walked from the opposite side of the theater to ask him to remove it.
ugh!
great hub and excellent information.wow these look really funky and eye catching...i love to use it but sometige gets problems in connectivity.
I can't believe people still think wireless headsets are "sooo wierd". Who's the bigger tool the person with two free hands or the person still holding a brick against their head. Adapt or die.
I don't think they look soo weird - but I do think people who wear them as a status symbol while sitting next to me in a coffee shop look like pretensious wankers :)
Its a great device if your local law enforment watches cell phone users while driving. But for those that think its the end of the world if you remove it from your ear for 3 seconds, I have a simple name for you..."Bluetool"!
As I see it when I am talking on my Bluetooth and walking down the sidewalk of the city, it acts like a security measure..... who in thier who would mug a person talking to themselves?
wow just read about this is earning for ya, not just an ugly face ha ha......
lol No, not just....... :)
I always think of Star Trek's BORG when I see someone wearing one, but I am considering getting one, because I hate the ideal of holding the cellphone to my head, even worst a Blackberry...
btw, I would love the BRG eye visor...
We need a good name for these people. How about, "wordpeckers".
My pick would also be the Aliph Jawbone Noise Shield, it has awesome battery life and most importantly the sound quality is great. I walk around my apartment with the headset on, leaving the phone anywhere I wish and the connection is strong no matter where I go. Gook pick Mark.
The ONLY time somebody should wear one of these is when they are DRIVING. Any other time, and they are indeed pretentious wankers! Still, they are absolutely essential for drivers, anybody not wearing hands free when driving can be described with a much harsher word!
lol - True, very true.
Mark Knowles is incredibly annoying obviously has nothing better to do than read others input, and really sadly loves LOL a term mostly used by single women desperate to meet someone. as to the issue at hand, bluetooth is a very handy tool when the fine for hand holding a phone while driving is $300 and 3 demerit points
How about lololo david? I suspect you enjoy wearing it while walking around the grocery store. Does it make you feel important? LOL
Why do they have to blink like a fire fly? I would probably buy one if they didn't blink like crazy... not very discreet
They are incredibly useful while driving. I have one and I couldn't live without it but I usually leave it in my car cause I also adore the "cool" guys who have them on in the grocery store...blink blink blink lol... Hilarious.... Especially since you can barely hear anything
Great hub Mark.
I am inspired by your article, to write more better articles.
I am so glad you wrote an article on this! I need a new headset.
I believe if you have a cell phone, a Bluetooth headset is required for answering your cell in the car while driving. I have had so many close calls avoiding drivers that do not look where they are going or turn their head to check the blind spots.
Actually, Plantronics does have one that can do stereo with a detachable second earbud... I've been thinking about getting one, because I use my iPhone as much for listening to podcasts/music as calls. The question I have is, are there any that have full music controls on the unit? I just got a bluetooth headset for my birthday that has buttons to skip ahead or back tracks, but they don't work with my iPhone 3GS - just the volume and play/pause. Have you found any that do?
Thanks!
Mr. Knowles, sounds you and anyone else who think headset wearers are pretentious have a niggling inferiority complex. Pretty ridiculous IMHO to get bent about something that most obviously is a tool to make life easier.
Thanks anon. I just happen to think people who wear them to the bar are pretentious wankers.
Can't you find a job or something? Instead of leaving meaningless anonymous comments? Maybe then you could afford to buy one and become a pretentious wanker....
Thanks for the reviews and dose of humor.
I'm not really looking to be a wanker, pretentiousness aside, but I would like a wireless earpiece for two reasons:
1) Listening to audiobooks and podcasts on the train. That way I can safely stow my phone in my bag.
2) Talking on the phone without having to turn the touch surface of my phone into a grease platter. (I'd normally use the speakerphone, but that's even more irritating in public.) A wired earpiece is also suitable for this, but I will already be carrying a wireless one for the reason above.
Again, thanks for the helpful reviews.
lol
There are several perfectly good reasons for buying them - driving is the main one that comes to mind.
Ontario Canada has a law coming into effect October/09 banning the use of handheld devices (phones, gps, etc.) while driving, so bluetooths are a necessity. I have a Blue Ant Z9i and it worked perfectly with my Nokia specially when it informed me when I'm out of range with the phone (avoids accidentally leaving my phone at work and looking for it at home). Recently, I decided to go the smart phone way and signed up for an iPhone 3G S. Now I can't make a voice call without pressing (and holding down) the home button the phone. I can't listen to things like uTube, Radio and music through the bluetooth. Can you tell me which bluetooth would address my requirements, specially where it notifies you when you're out of range? Thanks for your help.
Some good news, the problem with not being able to make a voice call from the headset is fixed by the latest iPhone firmware update 3.1. Still can't use the bluetooth headset to listen to YouTube or music.
With wired handsfree you can atleast hold the wire as a sign that you talking to the mic.
"They are flimsy, will get lost easily and present a real challenge as to what to do with them when you are not on the phone. The whole point of the iPhone is supposed to be the fact that it’s all in one, and carrying a bag full of bits and pieces around makes no sense."
The MoGo Talk for iPhone will take care of this issue. It provides an iPhone case with a 5mm thin ear piece that clips into the case.
I'm seriously considering buying one, particularly with the new law being implemented in NZ on 1 November banning talking on cell phones while driving.
I've used a Motorola bluetooth ear piece in the past and found it very handy while driving. Never wore it anywhere else though lol.
Very good review thank you.
People who talk on the phone while driving and not using one of those ear pieces are WANKERS. stop doing it!!! do you really have to kill bike rider to relize that you need ear piece while driving?
I just bought my first iPhone 3G - it came with those ridiculous little earphones that don't stay in your ears that are only good for listening to music. Having had a Plantronics bluetooth piece for a couple of years (and yes, it still works - not throw-away) I can tell you that going back to those ridiculous little earphones in the car is definitely stepping backward bigtime! Here in my state it is illegal to put the phone to your ear in the car for one thing, not to mention how scarey it is to see the jerk behind me with their phone to their ear with one hand, gesticulating with their other hand between steering corrections and yakking away all the while.
I'll be shopping for a bluetooth ASAP and happily admit to being a bluetooth wanker.
Wow really nice! What I don't like about headset is that it make you look like you're talking to yourself.. well anyway but it helps me when I'm driving.
Absolutely love the commentary. You are hilarious, and helped me become a not so cool Bluetooth headset wearer in the meantime.
Avoiding radiation emitted from ones mobile phone is good, though a bluetooth headset still emits some radiation, it is much less than what your phone produces! A cable device is best but not always practical.
If bluetooth headsets annoy people that is their problem - Get A Life!
These devices are great, and if you have a problem... guess what? Its your problem ;)
LOl
Well, I was going for funny rather than "annoyed" I think it is funny when people wear these around in public. But if that annoys you - I guess that is your problem. ;)
I read many comments of issues pairing an iphone with bluetooth devices and wanted to offer my help to anyone who has a handsfree device as I do. I bought an iphone 3G last week after a couple of years with a problem-free HTC touch. I was impressed at how easy it was to pair the new iphone to my 3-year old bluetooth device. (Every website I went to stated it would NOT be compatible, but guess what...they are wrong!) My bluetooth is a speaker-phone type that we attach to a sun visor and provides very clear conversation quality and cost me $70. (Brand Bluetooth, Blue-Cell Model: BH52). Pairing was so easy: ON the iphone: go to settings, general, bluetooth and make sure it is set to ''OFF''....Then, on the handsfree device, Press & HOLD down the power button until the blue light stops flashing and stays lit solid. NEXT, back to the iphone, set the bluetooth setting to ON. It will detect the BH52, mention it in the list, and we tap on it to select it. Iphone then asks for its password 0000....(4 zeros seems to be the usual default for many bluetooth devices) and the pairing completes within seconds!
Good luck to all!
cant believe this review ... plantronics don't pair very well with iphone , samething for the jawbone . Did u even tried those headset before writting this article ?
Agree, it does not look very "cool" to wear a headset or bluetooth when one is out walking...
Looking for an assist. I had the Plantronics Voyager which worked very well with my IPhone 3G but when I moved to a 3Gs I started having problems. I moved to the Jawbone...its been okay but not the most comfortable. Has anyone has a similar problem with the 3Gs and if so what quality Bluetooth has anyone found that works well with the IPhone? Thanks
The best opening line ever!! Thank you.
My pleasure :)
I recently upgraded to an iphone 3gs and the at&t store said the Jabra Stone was the only earpiece they had in stock that I could hear music through. It was great, stylish and i loved it...except for the fact that it didn't fit in my ear and would constantly come out, and its not adjustable. So off to best buy...and after buying one in the store and having the staff there try unsuccessfully to get music to play from my phone into it I tried the jabra bt 530. excellent, great volume, great and comfortable fit. I hopes this helps someone. I've been surfing the net for days looking for a solution. Blessings!
LOL, Yes.
Bluetooth earpieces look absurd. They they make people appear uncouth and without social grace. They also make people look like Lando Calrissian's right hand man, or when Picard was changed into a Borg.
I think I will get the Jawbone Prime :Trollface:
So many haters...Personally, I really don't care what they look like nor if people think they look cool wearing one. I have one and use it regularly as it is a very handy device. I don't wear it to impress people nor do I care what they think when I am wearing one.
It is great for use while driving, keeps the hands free and my eyes on the road. It is also handy to use while I am working on the computer during conference calls, etc. and I need my hands free to type.
I don't wear it all the time, only when I needs hands free conversations.
It's not about being cool, it is about leveraging technology to make life a little easier. Wired headsets just get caught on things making it more difficult to have freedom of movement while you are talking.
So - you don't mind looking like a pretentious wanker. Good on ya, you lover of your fellow man. I feel the love.
LOL - haters? Surely you mean "pokers of fun."
I was resistant to getting a Bluetooth device, but my kids got me one because I use my cellphone many times each day for work. I spend a lot of time on the phone with coworkers and suppliers, without a Bluetooth device I would have to stop what I'm working on to hold the phone or try to work 1 handed. Since I started using my Jawbone 2 yrs ago, it has become an indispensible tool. I work in noisy, dusty environments and drive various pieces of equipment and am much more productive with it. Also against the law not to drive without handsfree. I recommend using one, but not as a fashion statement.
The Sennheiser MM 450 is the best headset. Without any doubt.
The JawBone is TERRIBLE, it has hardly any battery life...was a definite waste of money and time for me.
I think these are okay but not fabulous. There is a lag in time from speaking to the other person hearing so then there is that talk-over problem which is pretty annoying. I'm always saying "sorry, excuse me". My car is loud so I like the noise cancelling but I still have to speak loudly. good for driving and talking. Safety issues and all. I have the Plantronics 510. Looks stupid sorta. I always hated this but I am concerned about the safety of talking and driving.
One other thing. I am really tired of the lack of politeness by cell phone users. I think this really exacerbates this problem. I hope for a return of politeness like speaking to the person getting your coffee instead of talking on the phone.
I've read the comments and wonder why using a headset seems to make so many other people so irritated. It's a device which makes it easier and safer to drive and hold a phone conversation, to be up a ladder and use both hands to hold on rather than cling on with one hand and juggle the phone in the other. The list of advantages is long and the down side appears to be that you "look a wanker". To be sure, I'm self-conscious about using one in public because there are judgemental people about who deride others but who are they to determine what the rest of us do by laughing at our use of good technology?
Worst thing about an earbud in a publc area is someone
who talks so loud that everyone around hears one side of the conversation.
Best earbud hands down is the Motorola 700/710/720 series: better
noise suppression than the jbone, much more reliable and easier to
use. Also plays nicely with just about everything. Cheaper than most
as well.
Best noise suppression: Blueparrot, without question. You can ride
a Harley and the other end won't know it.
let me throw this into the mix, www.bluesim.com.au ,uses bluetooth headset technology in a desktop format. No need to look like a pretentious wanker, you can hold the device like a normal phone.
The only time these devices can be used effectively and not be uncool is when people are driving cars.
I use a Jabra BT40 and suffer from a terrible lag between speaking and the other person hearing me. Is this only my particular headset or is thos unavoidable with an iPhone? Anyone knows whether this is improved in the iPhone 4?
I am not your target audience, I just want to admire your work. I am starting to see some reason here. Tell me do you use the keyword, tags, etc. here? Of course you do, sorry that was a stupid question.
Tell me this: are you using Amazon graphics here? Hmmmmm, I might venture out here and try something different.
Thanks for your continued inspiration.
You're probably a nice person and this info was very useful. But your repettitive disapproval is irritating.
I think that this list is pretty extensive and very well thought out! but I use a SoundID 510 and I thought the noise canceling was much better than the Aliph Jawbone.
One other thought on this bluetooth stuff, you used to be able to spot the crazies on the street because they always walk around talking to themselves. Now it seems that they were simply trendsetters. People walking their dogs and talking away, or walking down an alley, or in the park. Holy cow!
DEFINITELY just 'Borg Wanna-Be's
The people talking down on bluetooth, are probably the decendants of the people who thought the wheel was a crazy invention. I wonder if the same thoughts were buzzing around when the Telephone mic was inyegrated into the handset?
Wanted: A BT headset that looks like a huge spider hanging off my ear. Complete with legs, hair, glowing eyes..
They do make you look like a W****er but hey thats what people said 10 years ago about people who used mobile phones or used sat nav. If you're driving its the easiest way to communicate and if you're using your hands for other things also makes life a lot easier when you need to talk to someone in todays multi tasking world. The smaller they can make these things with better battery life the better though.
I know, right! Wearing technology is so ridiculous right??? ha ha.. chortle... chuckle.. snicker. I mean, as long as you're willing to overlook the fact that "technology" is simply any tool you use to do something, and that the glasses you wear on your face (of all places) are a product of optical technology in the form of lenses, antireflection coatings, and an engineered wire frame skeleton, or that your watch has a complex set of mechanical gears and electronics. But I'm sure no one ridiculing Bluetooth users wears glasses or a watch.
20 years ago if a person was walking down the street talking to themselves, the would lock them up in an asylum, today, they should do the same.
I agree with the poster, and one or two commenters here, my choice would also be the Aliph Jawbone Noise Shield. Two very important points are that it has great battery life and excellent sound quality, and stays connected when one the move. Nice selection, and definitely covers the best.
I've read the comments and wonder why using a headset seems to make so many other people so irritated. It's a device which makes it easier and safer to drive and hold a phone conversation, to be up a ladder and use both hands to hold on rather than cling on with one hand and juggle the phone in the other.wholesale high quality Touch Screen LCD Monitors, Laptop Computers, Laptop Batteries, LCD Monitors, USB Monitors, ON-Camera Field HD Monitors, Cool Accessories for eBay sellers, distributors, store owners, retailers, drop shippers and small wholesalers at competitive prices. Abiding by the principle of "Super Quality, Satisfactory Services", we are striving hard to be your good business partner. With our joint efforts, we are convinced that the business between us would bring much benefit to both of us.
What I like about the bluetooth is that it helps you keep you hands on the wheels while driving, so no more driving tickets.
Good stuff
I love the people that make fun of these It is better to get radiation from the phone, or hold it while driving and cause an accident right...
Why bother with a "tusk" headset. Should just get a set of wireless headphones which do the same job and conveniently plays your music wirelessly. www.allthingswireless.co.uk have a great range. The Nokia BH 503 are by far the best though.
These are a widely used item here in Alaska.
Do these headsets work for the Iphone 4?
A bluetooth headset is ideal for listening to podcasts - especially while grocery shopping. Just because a wearer is not talking, doesn't mean they're not using it. In a car - and on a bicycle - it's the safest way to make and receive phone calls. Also in the car you can listen to GPS navigation commands without bothering your passengers.
Mark, first of all great job! I chanced on your site, and am looking for a bluetooth headset for my iPhone, which one do you recommend. Also how's the Samsung WEP450, someone was recommending it.
Awaiting your response
Aks
I love that now no one thinks I'm crazy when I'm talking to myself.
I too are one those pretentious warkers with a bluetooth head set.
Mainly because of all the negative publicity that has seems to be more apparent of late when holding an iPhone to your head.
Here in Alberta, Canada we are going to have to use this when driving so thanks for the info...we have a distracted drving law coming into effect Sept 1. No talking on a phone while holding it, eating while driving or anything of the sort so it won't just be for looks in the restaurant.
I have seen a few idiots on the dance floor trying to have a conversation, how stupid!
On the other hand, they are a great tool for drivers if you can handle doing two things at once! LOL ?
Call me a wanker but I have a SAMSUNG WEP200 that Ive owned for over 5+ years and I could NOT have done without it. My brother talks too much! Holding the phone in your hand takes up your attention and ability to multitask.
I can be doing 3 other things and "Yes him to death" (mom's saying) while he blabs away like I'm his shrink.
My Samsung Wep200, which I call "Sammy Davis Jr because it's SAMsung, it's small and it's black + helpful, is not acting too well with my 3GS iphone (damn you Steve Jobs!). People say I'm distant and hollow. I say YEAH, but what about the earpiece sound?
Ive got a line on a $25 (unopened box) Aliph Jawbone in blue on a site made by a guy named Craig. I hope it solves the problem.
Re. the Bluetooth Headset. It is a great device for when you've to talk on the phone while DRIVING which is NOT safe. And wareing it for long period is a PAIN, with skin irritation, dropping it specially while driving & having to look for it while driving is not safe. Needless to say, misplacing or losing it is another problem. I use mine only when the phone rings. I have a solution "Blue Noose" check it out, it is practical & convenient. Drive Safe !!
I was given a Sennheiser MM400 to go with my iPhone 4s. For those who occasionally use their iPhone as an iPod it is just great; stereo sound with terrific clarity and bluetooth facility as well as wired and a long battery life...and it takes calls too, with Siri thrown in...I recommend it. Plus you look like a music lover rather than an idiot. It's not cheap but it's worth it!
Please buy a newly designed Bluetooth that can sit inside your throat, so no one has to look at your retarded ear. LOL. No Bluetooth please.
I wasn't sure Apple hadn't made iphones incompatible with earpieces, because they weren't cool. At least you wouldn't have to ask your 4gs "why is my hand occupied with this non-ergonomical radiused obelisk?" Oh wait, I still need the touchscreen!
In one year u must hav gone through 6-8blue tooth either I lost or just don't feel comfort after awhile it hurts but anubidy I recommend jabra wave yu can wear it from both the sides
Don't believe a word of it. I owned 3 of the 5 . Both Jawbones I AND II ( complete trash. All marketing no substance), The Plantronics was better, but picks up all background noise, controls are substandard. Sometimes it connects sometimes not. I use a Headset because I drive a lot hands free Miles I could give a rats a... who thinks I am cool .Let me ask You? Would you rather me driving in front, next to or behind you or someone with one hand n the wheel and one on their phone!
I now use a Bluetooth, but only because I have to and if the driver that was talking on the phone while trying to untangle the wire from the gear lever was using one he would never of hit me and destroyed my life!... so leave those that use them alone for there may be a reason you don't know about.
Know hold on a second,the platronics voyger hd is a nice peice of technology.
Know hold on a second,the platronics voyger hd is a nice peice of technology.
A good way to not annoy your coworkers is to use a desktop bluetooth set, like the iFusion. It is clear that you are talking on the phone and not to the air around you.
I found it strange that I did not find a comment on the best blue tooth on the market today. The BlueAnt Q2 headset comes with a 2 year warranty. It announces the name of the caller (if in your address book) if not announces the phone number. Calls can be placed by clicking the button and saying "phone commands" and call "John Doe". It also has 11 other commands that can be addressed this way.
BlueAnt Blue Tooth also can be answered by voice only without clicking a button or after hearing the name or number of the caller you can say "ignore" if you do not want to answer or simply answer if you want to talk to the caller. One other useful command is the "check battery" command. The bluetooth will announce the strength of the battery.
I have the plantronics voyager pro from 2010 and the battery just quit. When I contacted the company, they said that although that is at the low end of the life time expectancy, I should have expected that and can purchase a replacement for $50
The battery in this device can't be replaced! So the company is saying in essence that I have to buy a new blue tooth every 18 months.
1. That's BS
2. Mark, do you have any stats on the battery life of the devices you reviewed?
I don't mind looking foolish at all as I have reached an age where I don't care. I mainly use my bluetooth STERIO headsets at home or on a bus to listen to music, audio books or while watching video on my Archos 43 Internet Tablet. So far I have tried two headsets and numerous bluetooth dongles and other devices. The winner hands down for the best range and crystal clear sound is the Nexxtech 2605400 Sterio Headset, purchased on Black Friday on sale for $19.99. It has a range using my Archos of 50 to 100 feet and while not as good on other deivices and dongles still fantastic and far more than the advertised 10 m range. It has a battery life of 12+ hours. The other one I purchased on eBay is the Nokia BH503, sterio headset, which has far less range, is more tempermental to connect and is has larger foam ear pads that get quite warm with extended use. I have used them both with TVs, computers, mp3 players, radios, music systems etc. If you get a good blue tooth wireless sterio headset, you will throw out any other sterio wireless headset you have. I connect my headset and leave my device what ever it is at a high point in my house and cover my entire yard. The range of any headset, depends on the transmitter and some bluetooth dongles are exceptional and others are lousy. Most impressive is a small bluetooth transmitter that plugs into a 3.5 mm audio socket and broadcasts to any headset.
I drive a tractor-trailer and I'm looking for a good Bluetooth headset to make my calls on that "won't" pick up all the noise around me and that I'll be able to hear them. I'm also trying to find one that I will be able to dial and hang up hands free. Any ideas?
Stacie Naczelnik 4 years ago
I'm sure they are convenient for people to use, but I'm so annoyed with my co-workers who use them...you neve know when they are talking to you, themselves, or someone on their stupid little Bluetooth thing. Plus, they look like some futuristic warrior fighing on Mars with that thing sticking out of their head.