Best Hands-Free Headsets

Most cell phones work with wireless headsets these days so you can talk hands-free.  That’s especially important as more and more states being to pass laws against using cell phones while driving.  So which hands-free devices give you the most bang for your buck? 

Bluetooth headsets that let you carry on conversations hands-free now come in all different shapes, sizes, and colors.  Consumer Reports recently tested dozens of them.  They found smaller ones tend to be more expensive - about $100 more.  Testers also found big differences in the talk times.  Some lasted more than 10 hours, others quit in less than 4 hours.

Also tested, headsets from Iqua, that run on solar power.  It charges in any kind of light, but it wasn’t the easiest headset to use.  Stereo headsets were also tested.  These aren’t designed for while you’re driving.  But they’re good for cell phones with built-in music players.  When a call comes in, the music stops.

Consumer Reports rated the $135 Sony Ericsson as its top stereo headset.  Another bonus, it has multi-point pairing, which is the easiest way to connect your headset to whatever device you’re using.

Also top-rated, two $60 mono headsets.  The Jabra BT5020 also has multi-point pairing.  The second, the Motorola H680, comes with a small case that doubles as a charging base.  Another handy feature to have with a bluetooth headset is call holding.  It allows you to put the caller on hold without breaking off the conversation. 

To read Consumer Reports’ full recommendation, click here.