If you’re someone who often finds themselves in noisy environments, whether at home, in the office, or on the go, then a noise-canceling Bluetooth headset might be a game changer for you. After all, it’s essential to be able to communicate clearly without distractions. But with so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best noise-canceling Bluetooth headsets for phone calls, so you can make an informed decision.
I’ll start by discussing the key factors you need to consider when shopping for a headset. From there, we’ll take a deep dive into some of the best models on the market, comparing their features, performance, and price. By the end of this article, you should have a clear idea of which headset will best suit your needs.
Table of Contents
Key Factors to Consider Before Buying
1. Noise Cancellation Performance
When it comes to Bluetooth headsets, active noise cancellation (ANC) is one of the most important features to look for. ANC technology uses microphones to pick up external sounds and generates sound waves to cancel them out. This results in a quieter, more focused listening experience.
However, not all noise-canceling technology is created equal. Some headsets perform better in different environments. For example, a headset that works well in a busy coffee shop might struggle in a loud, industrial setting. Pay attention to the quality of ANC, particularly if you’ll be using the headset in a variety of environments.
2. Sound Quality
Another crucial factor to consider is the audio quality. Clear sound is vital for phone calls, especially if you need to communicate with clients or colleagues. Look for headsets with high-quality microphones, as well as a well-balanced sound profile that doesn’t distort your voice or the other person’s.
3. Comfort and Fit
If you’re going to wear a headset for extended periods, comfort is key. Look for headsets that are lightweight, have cushioned ear pads, and offer adjustable headbands. You also want to make sure the headset fits securely without causing discomfort.
4. Battery Life
One of the most frustrating things can be a headset that runs out of battery just when you need it most. A long battery life is especially important if you use your headset for long conference calls or travel frequently. Many headsets offer up to 20 hours of talk time, but be sure to check the specific battery life before making a purchase.
5. Connectivity and Bluetooth Range
Bluetooth headsets come with different Bluetooth versions, which can affect their connectivity range. While most headsets will provide a stable connection within a 30-foot range, a newer Bluetooth version might offer greater range and a more stable connection in crowded environments.
6. Microphone Quality
For phone calls, the quality of the microphone is just as important as the sound you hear through the headset. Look for headsets that include a noise-canceling microphone, which will ensure your voice comes through clearly even in noisy environments.
7. Price
The price of noise-canceling Bluetooth headsets varies widely, depending on the features and brand. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, consider how much you’re willing to invest in the long-term value of the headset. A higher-quality headset may cost more upfront, but it could save you from purchasing a replacement soon after.
Top Noise-Canceling Bluetooth Headsets for Phone Calls
Now that you know what to look for, let’s take a closer look at some of the best noise-canceling Bluetooth headsets available for phone calls. I’ve compared a variety of models in terms of features, performance, and price to give you a well-rounded overview.
1. Sony WH-1000XM5
The Sony WH-1000XM5 is often considered the best overall noise-canceling Bluetooth headset for phone calls, thanks to its premium sound quality, exceptional ANC, and comfortable design. The headset offers the best in class noise cancellation, which effectively filters out background noise, making it ideal for working in noisy environments.
- Noise Cancellation: Top-tier ANC that adapts to your environment.
- Sound Quality: Clear, crisp, and well-balanced audio.
- Comfort: Lightweight with soft ear cups for long listening sessions.
- Battery Life: 30 hours of playback time.
- Price: High-end but offers great value for the performance.
| Feature | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
|---|---|
| ANC Performance | Excellent |
| Sound Quality | Excellent |
| Comfort | High |
| Battery Life | 30 hours |
| Bluetooth Range | 30 feet |
| Price | $$$$ |
2. Bose QuietComfort 45
Bose has built a solid reputation for its noise-canceling technology, and the QuietComfort 45 lives up to that legacy. It offers impressive ANC, perfect for quieting down background noise during calls. While it’s great for phone calls, its overall sound quality makes it ideal for music as well.
- Noise Cancellation: Very effective at canceling out environmental noise.
- Sound Quality: Balanced sound with clear mids and treble.
- Comfort: Soft ear cups and lightweight design for long-term wear.
- Battery Life: 24 hours of talk time.
- Price: Premium pricing but well worth it for the quality.
| Feature | Bose QuietComfort 45 |
|---|---|
| ANC Performance | Excellent |
| Sound Quality | Excellent |
| Comfort | Very High |
| Battery Life | 24 hours |
| Bluetooth Range | 30 feet |
| Price | $$$$ |
3. Jabra Evolve2 85
Jabra’s Evolve2 85 is a fantastic option for those looking for a headset tailored to office environments. With superior ANC and an excellent microphone system, it’s built for phone calls and conference calls. The ear cups have a snug fit, and the headset is designed to block out the noise, allowing you to concentrate on your conversations.
- Noise Cancellation: Advanced ANC with a focus on eliminating office noise.
- Sound Quality: Excellent clarity, especially for voice calls.
- Comfort: Adjustable headband and cushioned ear cups.
- Battery Life: 37 hours of battery life on a full charge.
- Price: Expensive but designed for professionals.
| Feature | Jabra Evolve2 85 |
|---|---|
| ANC Performance | Excellent |
| Sound Quality | Excellent |
| Comfort | High |
| Battery Life | 37 hours |
| Bluetooth Range | 100 feet |
| Price | $$$$$ |
4. Sennheiser Momentum 3
The Sennheiser Momentum 3 offers superior sound quality and a decent level of noise cancellation. While not as effective as some competitors in terms of ANC, it makes up for it with exceptional sound performance and an elegant design. This headset is ideal for those who prioritize audio fidelity.
- Noise Cancellation: Good but not the best in its class.
- Sound Quality: Rich, deep bass and clear vocals.
- Comfort: Soft ear padding with an adjustable headband.
- Battery Life: 17 hours of playback time.
- Price: Slightly expensive but worth it for audiophiles.
| Feature | Sennheiser Momentum 3 |
|---|---|
| ANC Performance | Good |
| Sound Quality | Excellent |
| Comfort | High |
| Battery Life | 17 hours |
| Bluetooth Range | 33 feet |
| Price | $$$$ |
5. Anker Soundcore Life Q20
For those on a budget, the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 offers impressive noise cancellation and sound quality at a more affordable price point. The ANC may not be as advanced as higher-end models, but it still does a solid job of reducing background noise.
- Noise Cancellation: Solid ANC for the price.
- Sound Quality: Balanced sound with decent bass.
- Comfort: Comfortable ear cups with an adjustable headband.
- Battery Life: 40 hours of playtime in ANC mode.
- Price: Affordable.
| Feature | Anker Soundcore Life Q20 |
|---|---|
| ANC Performance | Good |
| Sound Quality | Good |
| Comfort | High |
| Battery Life | 40 hours |
| Bluetooth Range | 30 feet |
| Price | $$ |
Conclusion
Choosing the right noise-canceling Bluetooth headset for phone calls depends on your specific needs, budget, and how you intend to use the headset. If you want top-tier ANC and the best all-around performance, the Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort 45 are excellent choices. For those looking for something more office-centric, the Jabra Evolve2 85 is hard to beat. And if you’re on a budget but still want solid performance, the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 offers great value.
Ultimately, it’s about finding the headset that aligns with your preferences. Test them out if possible and see which one feels most comfortable and offers the best clarity for your calls. Whether you’re working from home or traveling frequently, a good noise-canceling Bluetooth headset can make a world of difference in your communication experience.
