Cell Phone Headset Help

Phone Headset Options

The first thing to consider when purchasing a cell phone headset is what type of headset you can use with your mobile device. If, for instance, your phone is Bluetooth compatible, you can use a wireless headset. If it is not, then you'll have to find a headset with a connector that fits the headset port on your phone. Not all wired headsets fit all phones. (See more information on headset ports below.) To be sure, check your owner's manual or device specifications that you can usually find or your phone's manufacturer web site.

Wired or Wireless Headsets

Your next decision is whether you prefer a wired or wireless headsets. Wireless headsets on most of today's cell phones use Bluetooth technology. If your mobile device is Bluetooth compatible, then you have a wireless option.

Many people like wired headsets because there is less chance of interference by background noise and other signals bouncing around so the sound quality can be better. Bluetooth sound quality does continue to get better but if you're in an area with lots of noise, a  wired headset may be your best option.

Many others don't like being tethered to their device so, for comfort and convenience, they prefer a wireless headset.

Wired Headsets

Wired headsets have been around longer than cell phones. They are small, inexpensive and powerful. They don't require a battery that Bluetooth headsets do so there is no constant charging or changing batteries. They can be used with most audio devices such as stereos, radios, MP3 players and, of course, cell phones. Small stereo headsets can provide great power and sound quality for little cost.

To use a wired cell phone headset, you must match the headset connector with the headset port on your device. Check your user's manual to be sure of the type of headset your device has since they can sometimes look similar. Some standard headset ports are:

• 2.5mm
• 3.5mm stereo
• USB ( typically Mini USB or Micro USB)
• Samsung 20 Pin (For Samsung Cell Phones)
• Nokia Pop-Port or other Nokia Standard
• Motorola Phone Standard

Bluetooth Headsets

Bluetooth wireless headset are usually the most convenient type of headset. You're not tethered to your device and there is no distracting wire to contend with. Although most cell phone today are Bluetooth compatible, not all support all Bluetooth profiles (options). Check your mobile phone's Bluetooth specifications. For example, a Bluetooth headset may offer the ability to activate your phone's voice dialing feature however your phone must have that feature built in and support that Bluetooth profile.

Bluetooth Version

Bluetooth versions range from 1.0 (too many problems and restraints) to the newest version 3.0 High Speed. Version 1.2 was the first really usable version for cell phones and you may find that version on older phones. As will most all standards, Bluetooth versions are ever changing. Make sure the Bluetooth headset you select is compatible with your cell phone.

Bluetooth Profiles

The Bluetooth profile specifies standard features or options a Bluetooth headset may have. Below are the most common Bluetooth profile options for cell phones, cell phone headsets and hands free device. Remember that both your mobile phone and Bluetooth headset must support the profile for the option to work on your phone.

Some Common Bluetooth Profiles Are:

• A2DP - Advanced Audio Distribution Profile. Defines quality of audio (stereo or mono) that can be streamed from one device to another.
• AVRCP - Audio/Video Remote Control Profile. Allows remote control.
• BIP - Basic Imaging Profile. For sending images between devices.
• BPP - Basic Printing Profile. For sending text and other printer type data. No printer specific drivers are required
• CIP - Common ISDN Access Profile. Provides unrestricted access to the services, data and signaling that ISDN offers
• DUN - Dial-up Networking Profile. Standard to access Internet over Bluetooth
• FTP - File Transfer Profile. Ability to transfer files and folders
• GAVDP - Generic Audio/Video Distribution Profile. Provides basis for A2DP and VDP
• GAP - Generic Access Profile. Defines how 2 Bluetooth units discover and establish a connection.
• HFP - Hands-Free Profile. Allow Hands Free kits to communicate with mobile phones in vehicles
• HID - Human Interface Device Profile. Support for devices such as mice, joysticks, keyboards, as well as sometimes providing support for simple buttons and indicators on other types of devices.
• HSP - Headset Profile. Most commonly used profile.
• PAN - Personal Area Networking Profile (PAN)
• PBAP, PBA - Phone Book Access Profile (PBAP, PBA). Allows exchange of phone's phone bood data between phone and hands free devices for thinks like caller ID and calling.
• SAP, SIM, rSAP - SIM Access Profile. Enables car phones with built in GSM transceivers to connect to a SIM card in a phone with Bluetooth.
• SYNCH - Synchronization Profile. Enables synchronization of Personal Information Manager (PIM) items.

Headset Comfort

Another headset option to consider is your ear size and shape and how comfortable a headset will feel. Many headsets come with several options to fit your ear such as different sized ear loops or ear rings. This is an important consideration especially if you plan on wearing your headset through out the day.

Environment

The environment you plan to use your headset in is important as well. Most headsets and hands free devices have noise cancellation technology to block out background noise. Some do it better than others.

Stereo or Mono Headsets

Stereo headsets are great (if not required) for listening to music however having a ear bud in each ear can be annoying if used for mostly phone conversations.

Note that driving while wearing a stereo headset or headphone is illegal in many states and can be dangerous while walking, running or biking. If it's important to hear the surrounding sounds like horns or approaching vehicles, it's better to wear a mono headset.

Speakerphone Hands Free

Bluetooth Speaker phone type hands free devices have become quite popular. They can be used in your car or truck (usually mounted on your visor) and can be used on your desktop or table as well.

Some examples of speaker phone or visor hands free devices are BlueAnt Supertooth III, BlueAnt S1, BlueAnt S4 and the Ventev SoundClip

Popular Cell Phone Headsets

Below are some of our most popular cell phone headsets both Bluetooth and wired headsets and hands free devices.