best wireless earbuds for phone calls

In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected is more crucial than ever, and that often means taking calls on the go. But fumbling with tangled wires or dealing with poor audio quality can quickly turn a productive call into a frustrating experience. That’s where the best wireless earbuds for phone calls come in, offering a convenient and high-quality solution for crystal-clear conversations. Not all wireless earbuds are created equal when it comes to call quality, though. Some excel at music playback but fall short when it comes to voice clarity, background noise reduction, and microphone quality. This guide will navigate you through the crucial features to look for and highlight some of the top contenders in the market so you can find the perfect pair for your needs.

Key Features to Consider for Optimal Call Quality

Before diving into specific models, let’s explore the critical factors that determine how well wireless earbuds perform during phone calls. Understanding these features will help you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and priorities.

Microphone Quality: The Heart of Clear Conversations

The quality of the built-in microphones is arguably the most important factor for call clarity. Look for earbuds that utilize multiple microphones per earbud, typically two or more. These microphones work together using beamforming technology to focus on your voice while suppressing surrounding noise. This ensures that the person on the other end hears your voice clearly, even in noisy environments.

Noise Cancellation: Blocking Out the World

While not directly related to microphone quality, active noise cancellation (ANC) significantly contributes to better call quality by reducing the amount of ambient noise that reaches your ears. When you can’t hear the background distractions, you’re more likely to focus on your conversation and speak more clearly. The added benefit is that the microphones, if they also use a form of noise cancellation, will pick up your voice with less competition, sending out a clearer signal. ANC comes in various levels of effectiveness. Top-tier earbuds often have adaptive ANC, meaning they can adjust their noise cancellation level based on the environment. Look for earbuds that offer both ANC for your ears and some form of noise cancellation specifically for the microphones.

Comfort and Fit: Essential for Long Calls

A comfortable and secure fit is crucial, especially if you anticipate taking long calls. Earbuds that fit poorly can cause discomfort, and you might find yourself constantly adjusting them, which can be distracting during a conversation. Look for earbuds that come with multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. Some earbuds even offer extra stability with wingtips or other design features that secure them in place. Consider the earbud’s design and material. Some prefer silicone tips, while others find foam tips more comfortable. The right fit will not only improve comfort but also enhance sound quality and noise isolation.

Battery Life: Staying Connected for Longer

Running out of battery mid-call is incredibly frustrating. Check the battery life specifications carefully, paying attention to the talk time rather than music playback time. Different features such as noise cancellation might impact battery life as well, so be sure to look for battery test for talk time to see the earbuds true battery life. While some earbuds offer impressive total battery life with the charging case, the more crucial metric is how long they can last on a single charge while taking calls. Consider your daily call volume and look for earbuds that comfortably meet your needs.

Bluetooth Version and Codecs: The Technology Behind the Connection

The Bluetooth version and supported audio codecs impact the stability and audio quality of the call. The latest Bluetooth versions, such as 5.2 or 5.3, offer better connectivity, improved power efficiency, and lower latency, which all translate to a more reliable and enjoyable call experience. Audio codecs, such as AAC or LDAC, influence the audio quality you hear; while this is more noticeable for music, it can affect the overall clarity of a call. However, the biggest thing to look out for is the use of different types of voice-call codecs. Many manufacturers use custom codecs to improve call quality. Check if they are using wideband codec technology for clearer audio. Wideband codecs will greatly improve the clarity of your voice.

Top Wireless Earbuds for Phone Calls: Our Recommendations

Now that you know what to look for, let’s delve into some of the best wireless earbuds for phone calls available on the market. Here are some of the top-performing earbuds for different needs and budgets:

Premium Tier: The Best of the Best

Sony WF-1000XM5

The Sony WF-1000XM5 are a top contender for anyone seeking the best call quality and overall performance. They boast exceptional microphone quality, excellent noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit. Sony’s advanced noise-canceling technology ensures that your voice is crystal-clear, even in loud environments. The battery life is also very respectable, offering up to 8 hours of talk time on a single charge. While they are among the priciest options, the WF-1000XM5 delivers an unparalleled audio experience for both music and calls.

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II

The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II are another top-tier option known for their superb noise cancellation and outstanding call quality. These earbuds use advanced microphone technology to isolate your voice from surrounding noise, ensuring that callers hear you clearly. Their customizability and comfortable fit also make them a great choice for long calls. The sound quality, although not as highly praised as the XM5s, is still top tier.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) are a popular choice for iPhone users, and for good reason. The call quality is very good, and the noise cancellation is some of the best on the market, helping to create a clear call experience. The seamless integration with Apple devices is a significant advantage. While they may not offer the absolute best microphone performance on this list, their overall user experience and reliable performance make them a solid choice.

Mid-Range Contenders: Excellent Value for Money

Google Pixel Buds Pro

The Google Pixel Buds Pro strike a great balance between performance and price. They offer excellent noise cancellation, very good microphone quality, and a comfortable fit. The integration with Google Assistant is a bonus for Android users. Their overall call quality is very respectable and makes for an excellent choice for any busy professional.

Jabra Elite 7 Pro

The Jabra Elite 7 Pro are a fantastic option for those seeking premium features without breaking the bank. Jabra has been focusing on call quality for many years, and it really shows with their new earbuds. The Elite 7 Pro boasts some of the best call quality at this price point. The comfortable fit and long battery life also make them a great all-around choice. They also have a nice app for those who like to customize things even further.

Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro

The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro are a sleek and comfortable option with very good call quality. They feature a streamlined design and great noise cancellation. Samsung does a great job at incorporating all of its ecosystem features into its earbuds. If you are heavily invested into the Samsung ecosystem, these are a great choice.

Technics EAH-AZ80

The Technics EAH-AZ80 are another great option for those seeking great sound and call quality. Technics is known for its audio engineering experience, and the EAH-AZ80 are no different. They offer an incredible sound, very good call quality, and some of the most advanced noise cancellation features available.

Budget-Friendly Options: Great Performance Without the High Price Tag

Anker Soundcore Liberty 4

The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 are a great choice for those looking for solid performance without a premium price. They deliver very good call quality and a comfortable design. The noise cancellation, while not at the level of the premium options, is still quite good for the price point. These earbuds represent great value for money and are a good choice for those looking for a budget option.

OnePlus Buds Pro 2

The OnePlus Buds Pro 2 offer great call quality at an affordable price. These earbuds are specifically designed with phone calls in mind. They feature a comfortable design, good noise cancellation, and excellent value for money. If you are on a budget, these earbuds should definitely be on your radar.

Nothing Ear (2)

The Nothing Ear (2) earbuds are an attractive option with their unique design. These earbuds offer great sound and microphone quality for the price. They are a well-rounded option if you appreciate good style and also want good phone-call quality.

Making the Right Choice for You

Choosing the best wireless earbuds for phone calls ultimately depends on your specific needs, priorities, and budget. Consider factors such as the environment where you typically take calls, how long your calls usually last, and whether you need features like advanced noise cancellation. By carefully evaluating these factors and considering the options listed above, you can find a pair of wireless earbuds that will keep you connected and make your phone calls clear and seamless.

Remember to read reviews, compare specifications, and, if possible, try out the earbuds before making a final decision. Taking the time to research and understand what each model offers will pay off with a more pleasant and productive communication experience. With the right pair of wireless earbuds, you can confidently take calls on the go, knowing that your voice will be heard loud and clear, no matter where you are.