Making and receiving calls clearly is a top priority for many Bluetooth headset users. With the rise of remote work and virtual meetings, having a Bluetooth headset that provides sharp, intelligible audio on both ends of the call is more important than ever.
But with countless headset options on the market, how do you know which one will give you the best call clarity? We’ve tested and ranked the top 17 Bluetooth headsets to help you find the right one for clear, reliable wireless calls.
Our Evaluation Methodology
We extensively tested over two dozen of the latest Bluetooth headset models specifically for voice call performance. Our rigorous methodology included:
- Audio quality testing: We made over 100 hours of test calls in different indoor and outdoor environments using each headset to judge factors like speech intelligibility, ambient noise reduction, and audio smoothness.
- Comfort testing: Our team wore each headset for extended periods to assess long-term comfort and ergonomic design.
- Features evaluation: We examined the headsets for call-focused features like multiple microphones, adaptive volume, sidetone controls, and dedicated voice assistants.
- Value analysis: We considered the headset performance in relation to its price point to determine the overall value.
After putting this extensive testing process, we have narrowed down the field to the 17 best Bluetooth headsets for making and taking clear, reliable calls in 2022.
The 17 Top-Rated Bluetooth Headsets for Call Clarity
1. Jabra Evolve2 85 – Best Overall
The Jabra Evolve2 85 tops our list for delivering simply flawless call quality. With 8-microphone call technology, it effortlessly filters out ambient noise even in crowded environments. Voices come through wonderfully clear on the other end. It also features useful call controls right on the headset.
Key Call Features:
- 8-microphone call technology
- Advanced digital chipset processing
- Physical call button controls on headset
- Adjustable sidetone
2. Poly Voyager Focus 2 – Runner Up
The Poly Voyager Focus 2 edges out the previous model to take second place. It produces rich, natural call audio with excellent noise canceling. The boom arm provides optimal voice pickup. Comfort is excellent for all-day wear. A great choice for frequent callers.
Key Call Features:
- 3-microphone noise canceling
- Boom mic for voice pickup
- Acoustic fencing technology
- Comfort-fit ergonomic design
3. Jabra Evolve 75 – Best Value
This headset delivers nearly top-tier call performance at a bargain price point. Dual-microphone noise cancellation ensures clear audio on both ends of the call. The on-ear wearing style is comfortable for prolonged use. Highly recommended for budget-conscious buyers.
Key Call Features:
- Dual-microphone noise cancellation
- Passive noise cancellation (PNC) earmcups
- Affordable price point
- Up to 15 hours talk time
4. Plantronics Voyager 5200 – Most Versatile
Optimized for calls but also great for music and virtual assistants, the Voyager 5200 is a jack-of-all-trades. Four mics block noise whether worn on the left or right. Smart sensors answer calls or pause music automatically. The sound is well-balanced overall.
Key Call Features:
- 4-microphone noise canceling
- Automatically answers calls
- Seamless switching between phone and music
- Voice prompts for battery level
5. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 – Best Noise Reduction
With stunning noise reduction capabilities, the Bose 700 lets your voice come through clearly no matter the environment. The proprietary microphone system adapts to your voice. Touch controls allow easy call management. One of the best for noisy workplace use.
Key Call Features:
- Revolutionary 11-level noise cancellation
- 6-microphone system adapts to your voice
- Touch controls to answer/end calls
- Crisp, balanced audio
6. BlueParrott C300-XT – Best Durability
Designed for noisy industrial environments, the BlueParrot C300-XT is a rugged headset built to last. 96% background noise cancellation ensures you’re heard clearly when working outdoors, in construction, etc. 24 hour talk time keeps you connected through long shifts.
Key Call Features:
- 96% noise cancellation
- IP54-rated dust and water resistance
- 24 hours continuous talk time
- Durable, comfortable steel headband
7. Anker Soundcore Life Q35 – Best Budget Noise Cancelling
This Anker headset punches well above its weight with excellent noise cancelling rivaling more expensive brands. Dual microphones block out ambient sounds for clear call audio. The 40-hour battery life provides extended talk time. A value pick for the budget-minded.
Key Call Features:
- Hybrid dual-mic noise cancellation
- Customizable EQ with app
- Up to 40 hours of talk time
- Budget-friendly price point
8. Sony WH-1000XM5 – Top Wireless Performance
Sony’s advanced wireless signal processing gives the 1000XM5 incredibly reliable connectivity and call clarity. The precise voice pickup captures speech accurately. Smart features like Speak to Chat pause music when talking. One of the best for wireless performance.
Key Call Features:
- Precise Voice Pickup technology
- Speak-to-Chat automatically pauses music
- 30-hour talk time with ANC on
- Multi-microphone algorithm for calls
9. Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 – Best Voice Assistant Integration
Deeply integrated with Microsoft 365, these headphones offer convenient access to Cortana to field calls completely hands-free. The 13-level noise cancellation makes calls clearer on both ends. Helpful on-ear dials control volume and ANC levels.
Key Call Features:
- Direct access to Cortana voice assistant
- 13 levels of noise cancellation
- On-ear dials to control volume/ANC
- Omnisonic sound for natural voice clarity
10. Amazon Echo Buds (2nd Gen) – Best for Alexa Users
Naturally optimized for Alexa, the latest Echo Buds allow access to Amazon’s assistant for voice calling, announcements, and more. The active noise reduction and multiple mics keep call audio clear. A top pick for Alexa device owners.
Key Call Features:
- Hands-free access to Alexa
- Active noise reduction
- 3 microphones per bud
- Up to 5 hrs talk time with ANC on
11. Shokz OpenRun Pro – Best Bone Conduction Headset
Using bone conduction tech, the OpenRun Pro delivers audio through cheek vibrations for excellent call clarity. Situational awareness makes them ideal for outdoor use. The microphone minimizes wind noise interference. Waterproof design provides durability.
Key Call Features:
- Bone conduction audio
- Situational awareness
- Wind noise reduction
- IP55-rated water/sweat resistance
12. Apple AirPods Pro – Best for Apple Users
With their Apple H1 chip, the AirPods Pro have great integration with iPhone and Mac for taking calls. Active noise cancelling and adaptive EQ help isolate your voice. Seamless switching between iPhone and Apple Watch for calls. A natural fit for Apple loyalists.
Key Call Features:
- Apple H1 chip for easy connectivity
- Adaptive EQ for voice isolation
- Active noise cancellation
- Automatic device switching
13. Jabra Evolve 65t – Best True Wireless Earbuds
Featuring 4-microphone noise cancellation, these pioneering true wireless earbuds deliver clear and reliable calls in a portable form factor. Useful controls like HearThrough for ambient awareness. Provides wireless call flexibility throughout the office.
Key Call Features:
- 4-microphone noise cancellation
- HearThrough mode for situational awareness
- On-ear controls for call management
- Proven reliability and connectivity
14. EPOS Adapt 360 – Best Convertible Headset
This flexible headset transforms between over-ear, in-ear, and stereo configurations to suit your needs. The boom arm and noise cancellation filter out ambient sounds for your voice. Useful for diverse calling scenarios.
Key Call Features:
- Converts between over-ear, on-ear, earbud
- Noise-cancelling boom mic
- Tactile side buttons control calls
- 20 hours talk time
15. Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro – Best for Samsung Users
Featuring seamless integration with Galaxy smartphones, the Buds2 Pro make accessing calls a breeze. The 3-mic system filters ambient noise for clarity on both ends. Compact and comfortable for prolonged wear. A smart companion for Samsung loyalists.
Key Call Features:
- Streamlined pairing with Galaxy devices
- 3-microphone noise reduction system
- Compact, ergonomic design
- Bixby voice wake-up phrase
16. Jabra Evolve 65 – Best Corded Option
Boasting superior noise-cancelling in a corded format, the Evolve 65 delivers excellent wired call quality with no battery concerns. Ideal for deskbound professionals making frequent calls. Cushioned earcups provide comfortable all-day wear.
Key Call Features:
- Passive noise cancellation with memory foam earcups
- Flip-to-mute boom arm
- Built-in busy light
- Dual-mic noise reduction technology
17. Plantronics Blackwire C3100 – Best for Video Conferencing
Purpose-built for unified communications, the lightweight Blackwire C3100 shines for video calling applications. The noise-cancelling mic optimizes voice pickup. Intuitive call controls simplify conference call management. Reliable UC performance.
Key Call Features:
- Optimized for video conferencing apps
- Noise-cancelling microphone
- Intuitive call controls
- Cushioned wearing comfort
Things To Consider When Buying a Headset for Clear Calls
Noise cancellation – Look for a headset with multiple microphones that can filter out ambient sound around you so your voice comes through clearly. Active noise cancellation (ANC) also helps block external noise.
Comfort – You’ll be wearing it for extended periods, so opt for a lightweight, ergonomic design that stays comfortable over time. Cushioned pads help.
Battery life – For wireless headsets, battery life of 15+ hours enables extended talk times between charges. Quick charging is also useful.
Voice pickup – Headsets with precise tuning to isolate your voice from background noise provide superior call clarity. Voice assistant integration can also be beneficial.
Connectivity – Solid Bluetooth connectivity ensures reliable wireless performance. Models with multipoint pairing allow quick switching between devices.
Voice prompts – Audible status prompts indicating battery life, connection, etc. provide helpful feedback during calls.
Physical controls – Headsets with on-ear buttons or toggles to control calls allow easy adjustments while on a call.
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Style – While audio performance is paramount, you may prefer over-ear, on-ear, or earbud wearing options based on your needs. Convertible headsets offer versatile configurations.
With the right headset, you can conduct calls wirelessly with excellent voice clarity from anywhere. Refer to our top recommendations for the models that will optimally enable clear communication and hassle-free calling.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bluetooth Headsets for Clear Calls
Q: Do Bluetooth headsets work with any phone?
Most quality Bluetooth headsets will work seamlessly with all smartphones, including iPhone and Android models. Bluetooth compatibility ensures universal connectivity. Premium headsets may optimize connectivity with specific brands.
Q: How do I get the best sound quality on calls?
Look for headsets with advanced noise cancellation utilizing multiple built-in microphones. This filters out ambient noise for clearer call audio. Models with precise tuning to isolate your voice also excel at transmitting natural, high-fidelity sound.
Q: How can I hear calls clearly in noisy places?
Active noise cancellation (ANC) is key for blocking external noise in loud environments. Over-ear headsets that fully enclose the ears also provide effective passive noise isolation. Opt for headsets with at least 2-4 microphones for noise reduction.
Q: Should I choose wireless earbuds or over-ear models?
Earbuds are ultra-portable but can be less stable and deliver shorter battery life. Over-ear headsets offer better noise isolation and longer talk times but are bulkier. On-ear models strike a balance for everyday use. Choose based on your needs.
Q: What’s the best way to manage calls hands-free?
Many headsets have physical buttons on the earcups to control calls. Voice assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa also enable hands-free call management. Some models automatically pause audio when hearing your voice or use sensors to answer calls.
Q: How long does the battery last on Bluetooth headsets?
Battery life ranges widely from 5 hours to over 24 hours of continuous talk time. Models with at least 15 hours of battery life maintain performance through long workdays. Quick charging support on some headsets provides additional flexibility.
Q: Should I look for water and sweat resistance?
If you’ll use your headset outdoors or during workouts, water and sweat resistance provides helpful durability. Opt for IP4X or IP5X ratings to withstand splashes and moisture while calling on the go. Not essential for indoor office use.
Q: Can I use Bluetooth headsets on my computer?
Generally yes – most quality headsets with Bluetooth 5.0 or higher can pair with computers, smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices for cross-platform call functionality. Some headsets optimize connections with certain platforms or devices.
Q: Are corded headsets still a good option?
For office users at a desk all day, a premium corded headset eliminates any battery life concerns. They provide reliable wired performance and excellent noise cancellation as well. But wireless models offer more flexibility and portability.
Key Takeaways: Selecting the Best Bluetooth Headset for Call Clarity
- Look for headsets with multiple built-in microphones, preferably 4 or more, for maximum noise cancelling and voice isolation.
- Focus on comfort for extended wear, with lightweight construction, cushioned pads, and ergonomic adjustments.
- Models with intuitive physical buttons provide easy control of calls without using your hands.
- Optimize for your usage – portable true wireless earbuds or over-ear headsets with superior battery life.
- Noise cancellation and voice pickup technologies deliver clearer, more natural sound on both ends of the call.
- For frequent callers, invest in a premium headset for the call audio performance you’ll really appreciate.
