Bluetooth headset for phone: how to choose and use?

A Bluetooth headset for your phone is an indispensable accessory for hands-free conversations. That's just how to use wireless headphones with a microphone, how to choose them for a smartphone and iPhone - users have many questions about all this. To understand the specifics of Bluetooth headsets, you should first learn more about them.

Bluetooth headset for phone is a variety of accessories for mobile devices with a built-in microphone and speaker for listening to the interlocutor's speech. The device is mounted on a special clip worn on the ear, or it is made in the form of an embedded earpiece, in mono or stereo performance. Some headsets are exclusively single-sided, specially shaped to allow varying microphone positions, they are mainly used by those who need to communicate a lot and often on the phone.

Execution is also different: from full-size models with large overhead cups to miniature earbuds with a rim around the neck. In any case, a Bluetooth headset always has a wireless module, with which it establishes a connection with a smartphone or tablet. There are also controls for receiving calls.

Wireless connection is quite actively used in modern mobile devices. A Bluetooth headset works to receive and transmit a signal over a separate channel. An external device acts as a translator - a smartphone, tablet, laptop, in which the corresponding module is installed. He performs the main role of the transceiver.

The headset has a Bluetooth receiver that picks up the radio wave. For successful operation, such a device requires its own battery - a battery that is placed in its body itself or in a special neck strap. Unlike a phone, after turning on the headphones, their Bluetooth module remains active throughout the entire operating time. In standby mode, the power consumption is minimal; in the active phase of use, the headset can work for a limited period of time.

Bluetooth connection is similar to radio reception, but its working range is much less: from 2 to 10 m from the transmitting device. It is distinguished by higher signal quality, connection stability, and interference resistance. Plus, Bluetooth headsets are truly portable and compact. It is worth adding that data transmission occurs via an encrypted channel, requires pairing with the main device.

TWS headsets Similar to regular Bluetooth headphones, they do not have a wired connection. True Wireless Stereo (this is how the name of the technology stands) provides complete independence from cables. Even such devices are charged by placing them in a special case. It itself acts as a powerbank, and, being powered by a cable, it can provide up to 3-4 recharges for the headset without any wired connection, due to the already accumulated energy.

All Bluetooth headsets can be categorized according to several criteria. The simplest sign is by the type of the transmitted signal.

Allocate monophonic options, optimal for conversations and communication, they convey the voice quite clearly and cleanly. Stereo headsets suitable not only for conversations. They can be used as ordinary headphones for listening to music and audiobooks, the microphone in these versions can be stationary or retractable.

These headsets differ from others in that the earpiece itself has tips that are inserted not into the outer part of the auricle, but inside, into the ear canal... This provides isolation from external noise, eliminates interference. The microphone and receiver are built into the neckband that connects both elements. These models are chosen by athletes, as well as townspeople, who are often forced to talk on the phone in conditions of strong external noise; this will not hurt to hear the interlocutor.

Classic headphone with closed ear cups and built-in microphone... They provide the highest quality sound, isolate interference well, and are versatile in performance. These models are great for home use, but they are also quite comfortable outdoors. Such a headset usually has a built-in high-capacity battery and full-fledged function controls on the body.

This type of Bluetooth headset has a clip that is attached to the outside of the ear. They are often foldable for easy storage and transport.

In general, such headsets are considered the best choice for voice use, they are equipped with powerful emitters that allow you to confidently receive a signal from a smartphone.

The top, which includes wireless devices of different price categories, classes and purposes, will help you to find the best models of Bluetooth headsets for your phone. Among the sales leaders and models that have earned the trust of users, the following options can be distinguished.

• Samsung Gear Iconix 2018... Not a bad model of a stereo wireless headset, claims to be the most profitable choice in terms of price and quality. These are in-ear headphones with Bluetooth 4.2 module, with a charging case and additional ear pads. The model works up to 5 hours without recharging, the battery is not too capacious.

• Apple AirPods MMEF2. A wireless headset designed for use with Apple branded gadgets. It features a stylish design, a powerbank case included, and uses Bluetooth 4.0. For active conversations - not the best option, after 5 hours the battery will have to be recharged. Doesn't work with iOS devices below version 10.

• Sony WI-SP500. Spill-resistant sports headset with neck cord. Looks stylish, equipped with 2 microphones, NFC module for quick connection. The headphones connect even faster, work up to 8 hours without recharging, weighing 32 g. The model does not have replaceable ear pads or a case; you need Android 4.4 or higher to establish a connection.

• Xiaomi Mi Collar bluetooth Headset. Stereo headset for the keen athlete, with built-in microphone and high-quality speakers. The necklace acts as a signal receiver, and the control buttons are located here. The model can withstand up to 10 hours in active mode without recharging, it works on the basis of Bluetooth 4.0. The disadvantages include weight (40 g), but the set includes a capacious rechargeable battery for 137 hours, there is a Quick Charge function.

• Sony MBH22. A model of a Bluetooth headset from a renowned manufacturer. Compact, made in the form of a mono device weighing only 9.3 g, with fixation in the ear. The headset is securely held when walking, provides sufficient volume when communicating by voice, the battery lasts for 6 hours. This is a good model for music lovers, the sound quality of Sony devices is traditionally high.

• Jabra Talk 45... A headset sold in the premium segment. It has higher sensitivity, the range is increased to 30 m, but the operating frequency range is reduced to 100-8000 Hz. The quality of listening to music leaves much to be desired, but you can count on comfort during a conversation, extraneous noises will not interfere.

• Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Headset Youth... An inexpensive and well-made headset with a stylish design and a set of ear pads included, supports pairing with 2 phones at once and voice dialing. Available in black and white plastic cases, it belongs to the category of monoclips. The model uses active noise suppression, there are buttons on the case. The only serious drawback is that the duration of active use does not exceed 4 hours, up to 100 hours in standby mode, voice control is implemented only in Chinese.

• Plantronic Explorer 80/85. A compact model of a telephone headset with a good range of supported frequencies (from 20 to 20,000 Hz) and the ability to connect to 2 phones, has a clip-on mount with a rather convenient clip. In addition, the model provides for the use of noise cancellation, no echo is heard, the device is equipped with a capacious battery for 11 hours of continuous active work. The package includes a USB cable and a car adapter, the mount is adapted to be worn on any ear, there is a voice dial.

• Harper HBT-1707. "Long-playing" wireless headset, able to hold out without recharging up to 10 hours when working in active mode. The sensitivity of the device is average, the quality and depth of sound transmission are not at the highest level. This headset can be recommended for motorists looking to free their hands.

Choosing the right phone headset for your smartphone depends on many factors. There are many things that matter - from the model of the device to the characteristics that the accessory itself has. The most important selection criteria are presented below.

1. Product size and weight. A compact headset can weigh from 3 g, a full-size headset for two ears sometimes reaches a mass of 200 g, the difference with prolonged wear is felt colossal. In addition, oversized products are not very convenient for a mobile phone, but manufacturers produce them for home use - watching TV, voice communication.
2. Ergonomics. Behind-the-ear Bluetooth headsets have an external mount that can interfere with glasses. The thickness of the bow, the general level of comfort, is best assessed immediately using the frame in which a person constantly walks. Indoor vacuum models also have their own specific features. Sometimes it is simply impossible to get used to them - this should be taken into account if you do not want to waste money.
3. Versatility. Accessories "sharpened" for a certain brand are in fashion. On the one hand, this gives full compatibility with specific devices, on the other hand, it complicates searches. If it is possible to choose a headset for a specific brand of phone, it is worth taking advantage of it. In other cases, a universal option is also suitable.
4. Bluetooth version. Energy consumption and some other factors depend on it. Versions 2.0 and 2.1 are considered completely obsolete and consume battery very quickly. 3.0 and 4.0 are quite comparable to Wi-Fi in terms of stability and signal transmission speed. In Bluetooth 4.1, the data transmission range has been increased, 5.0 is considered the most relevant option, but the main thing is that the telephone transceiver must also comply with these values.
5. Mono or stereo. Here it is worth focusing on the goals and objectives set when using the headset. If you only need it for voice communication, a one-way monomodel is enough.For communication and listening to music, it is better to immediately choose stereo headsets, which are distinguished by wide functionality and better sound quality.
6. Duration of work. For Bluetooth headsets, it is determined in 2 modes - standby and active use, depending on the capacity of the power source. For such a compact device, 80-110 mAh batteries are used. The lowest rates will ensure the ability to continuously maintain a conversation for up to 2-3 hours, the maximum will allow you to stay in touch for up to a third of the day, and in standby mode they will be able to withstand a week.
7. Maximum radius of action. It is important if you want to use the headset away from the signal source. For example, at a distance of 3-5 m. Such range indicators are supported by all modern devices. Some of them can be removed even by 10-15 m, but the real radius is usually less, since interference has its effect.
8. Duration of charge replenishment. Even if the mobile headset battery runs out, you can always bring it back to life. But only some devices spend several hours on this, while others need from 10 minutes to half an hour. If you have to actively use a headset, you should definitely take this factor into account.
9. Construction type. If the main goal is to listen to music wirelessly, you should pay attention to closed-type, overhead or plug-in models. Clips (earbuds) are the most inconvenient, they often move out of their place, the sound quality in a noisy room may not be too high.
10. The presence of buttons. Of course, there are already models with touch controls, but the vast majority of headsets are still controlled using the keys on their body. It is optimal if the device has a button for receiving and canceling a call, a volume control. With the support of voice control, it is also more convenient to call the assistant from the key.
11. Headset profile type. Headset - the most common, you can listen to both music and the voice of the interlocutor. Using the headset, you can make calls and change the volume level. AptX is a codec, the presence of which indicates the ability to listen to sound in excellent quality. A2DP is needed to listen to stereo, not mono. AVRCP is one of the most multifunctional codecs, it can easily handle even voice control of a smartphone.
12. Additional functionality. For example, a headset with support for Multipoint can synchronize simultaneously with several devices, it determines itself where to connect. Waterproof or USB charging can also be considered very useful options. The battery indicator will not be superfluous, with the help of which you can easily control when it is time to replenish its energy reserves.
13. Price category. The most difficult point, since individual preferences come into play here. A branded headset with Bluetooth support and a built-in microphone is not cheap, but buying one will be a good investment in your own comfort. It is definitely not worth buying cheap Chinese headsets of anonymous or little-known brands - there is a high risk that the device will not work.

Most of the Bluetooth headsets are designed for use with smartphones running on the Android operating system. The first time you connect a new device, you will need to manually pair it. In the future, the recognition and activation of the working connection will be performed automatically. The step-by-step setup process is as follows.

1. Bluetooth must be turned on in the smartphone settings menu. If a mode of reduced visibility is provided, it should be disabled.
2. The headset must be turned on... Hold down the pairing button - on average, this takes no more than 15 seconds. It is necessary to wait for the moment when the indicator starts giving intermittent light signals.
3. Find a discovered new device in the smartphone menu... When prompted for a PIN code, you must enter the one indicated in the operating manual. If it is not there, by default you can enter the combination 0000 or 1234.
4. Wait for the devices to pair. This can take up to 1 minute.
5. In the settings menu in the phone, select the paired device... Mark in its parameters the use for the conversation. If you have the required profile, you can also confirm the readiness to listen to audio files. The setup is complete. You can make a test call.
6. If you need to connect the headset to a new device, you will have to unpair the previous one. To do this, the pairing button is clamped on it, held until short indication signals appear on the transition to the detection mode.

The second device can have additional structural elements for more fine tuning. For example, it can be equipped with additional profiles, within which the operating mode is determined.

You can listen to music only through headsets, in which it was originally provided. If there is no such function, you can launch it through the application on the phone, but the playback quality will be lower than expected. The pairing button, if present on the headset, can be used to issue different commands, depending on the frequency and duration of the press.

See below for an overview of a Bluetooth headset for your phone.