When people ask me for hands-free headset advice, my first question is if they prefer wireless (using bluetooth) or wired (plugging a headset into the phone). Each have their pros and cons.
Wired:
- cheaper ($10-$25)
- no loss in audio quality
- simple
- no battery to charge
- needs to have correct adapter for particular phone
Wireless:
- More expensive ($80 for my favorites)
- No wire to get in the way or take up room
- Allows you to walk about 20 feet from the phone (helpful if your phone only gets reception in one spot)
- Works with any bluetooth device, including computers (so you can use it for Skype calls)
Favorite Models
The exact model of headphone is a matter of preference because ears are different shapes and sizes. My current favorites are from Plantronics.
- The Plantronics MX-505
(pictured) is an excellent wired headset. Make sure to get the correct version for your phone. Plantronics now also sells the MX-500i which includes both a 2.5mm adapter for most mobile phone and a small USB adapter for computers.
- The Plantronics Discovery 925
Your Preference
Much of the wired/bluetooth decision is preference. I think that both look dorky and I prefer the lack of any audio degradation by a wired headset. But seeing people on phones around D.C., Virginia, and Maryland, I think that I’m in the minority at this point.
Because of Washington D.C.’s hands-free headset law (July 1, 2004) and just to be safer, you should have a headset that you feel comfortable using.