Ultimate cell phone headsets
 |
Earbuds Get maximum mobility and comfort with these in-ear models. |
 | |
 |
Booms Make sure you're heard with an integrated boom microphone. |
| |
 |
Retractable Eliminate tangled cords when not using your headset. |
| |
By John Fredrick Moore
(July 27, 2004; updated May 9, 2005)
(July 27, 2004; updated May 9, 2005)
Cell phone headsets aren't just a convenience. If you happen to live in an area that bans the use of mobile phones without a headset while driving, they're a necessity. Whether you're behind the wheel or walking down the street, a headset frees up your hands, and you can even plug it into a wireless phone-recording controller for capturing conversations or interviews.
To help you find the best fit, we tested 22 models on the market today representing three different styles: earbuds with in-line or integrated microphones, headsets with boom microphones, and units with retractable cords. Most of them work with any phone that has a standard 2.5mm headset jack and are priced between $20 and $30, unless otherwise noted.
We tested the headsets with four phones: the Nokia 6225, the Nokia 7270, the LG VI5225, and the Nextel i830. Nokia and Sony Ericsson mobiles use a proprietary plug; if a headset isn't directly compatible with your phone, you can purchase an adapter.
To help you find the best fit, we tested 22 models on the market today representing three different styles: earbuds with in-line or integrated microphones, headsets with boom microphones, and units with retractable cords. Most of them work with any phone that has a standard 2.5mm headset jack and are priced between $20 and $30, unless otherwise noted.
We tested the headsets with four phones: the Nokia 6225, the Nokia 7270, the LG VI5225, and the Nextel i830. Nokia and Sony Ericsson mobiles use a proprietary plug; if a headset isn't directly compatible with your phone, you can purchase an adapter.
John Frederick Moore is a regular contributor to CNET.com. He is the author of the forthcoming book How to Do Everything with Your Camera Phone (McGraw-Hill/Osborne).
