Wireless headphones make phone calls easier
CNET has picked Bose QuietComfort 35 II as one of the best wireless headphones for making calls. Credit: CBS Interactive
The days of tinny-sounding cell phone calls are long past. And for that matter, so is any need to actually pick up your phone, as long as you have a solid voice assistant and a good pair of wireless headphones. Here are four wireless headphones that will have you dialing and dishing without ever having to lift a finger.
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
CNET rating (out of 5)
4.5 stars (outstanding)
THE GOOD The Bose headphone adds a dedicated button for Google Assistant, but it can be programmed for other functions, too. This model retains its predecessor’s top-of-the-line active noise-canceling, excellent wireless Bluetooth sound and extra-comfortable design. A cord is included if the battery dies.
THE BAD The battery isn’t replaceable, and it has the same apparent design and performance as the previous model.
THE COST $349.99
BOTTOM LINE The addition of a dedicated Google Assistant button gives the already excellent wireless noise-canceling headphone an extra bit of personality.
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2
CNET rating (out of 5)
4 stars (excellent)
THE GOOD The sound is very good for a Bluetooth headphone, it’s comfortable and it offers decent noise cancellation and strong battery life. It performs well as a headset for making cell phone calls and includes a carrying pouch.
THE BAD While the design has been improved, the headphone is still a little heavy and its aesthetics may not appeal to everyone.
THE COST $247.99
BOTTOM LINE An excellent, full-size, wireless noise-canceling headphone that costs nearly half as much as comparable models.
Apple AirPods
CNET rating (out of 5)
4 stars (excellent)
THE GOOD These ultra-lightweight headphones offer a reliable wireless connection, effortless pairing with Apple devices, decent sonics and good call quality. The included compact charging case quickly charges the buds. You can control playback of your music with a double tap.
THE BAD The AirPods will fit more securely in some ears than others. Their open design allows for a lot of ambient noise to leak in.
THE COST $159 to $189.99
BOTTOM LINE The compact size and high convenience factor are a winning combination.
Jabra Elite 65t
CNET rating (out of 5)
4 stars (excellent)
THE GOOD They deliver excellent sound, perform reliably and are great for making calls, with two microphones in each earpiece. Battery life is decent at five hours, and the included charging case delivers two extra charges.
THE BAD The relatively tight, noise-isolating fit isn’t for everyone. You have to step up to the more expensive Elite Active 65t to get a true sports model that offers enhanced sweat-resistance.
THE COST $169.95 to $229.49
BOTTOM LINE These well-designed, truly wireless earphones rival Apple’s AirPods and are superior in some ways.
The following CNET staff contributed to this story: executive editor David Carnoy and senior editor Laura K. Cucullu. For more reviews of personal technology products, visit cnet.com.
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