A hands-free phone kit allows drivers to talk on the phone without holding the phone up to their ear. Instead, the driver uses speakers and a microphone to have phone conversations while keeping their hands on the steering wheel. Hands-free kits improve safety by reducing distractions while driving.
Page Contents
- 1 What are the components of a hands-free phone kit?
- 2 What are the benefits of using a hands-free phone kit while driving?
- 3 What are the different types of hands-free phone kits?
- 4 What features should you look for in a hands-free phone kit?
- 5 What are the best hands-free phone kits?
- 6 How much do hands-free phone kits cost?
- 7 Are hands-free phone kits legal to use while driving?
- 8 What are the safety tips for using hands-free phone kits?
- 9 Conclusion
What are the components of a hands-free phone kit?
There are three main components of a hands-free phone kit:
- Speakers – Speakers allow the driver to hear the person on the other end of the call. The speakers may be built into the car’s audio system or separate portable speakers.
- Microphone – A microphone picks up the driver’s voice and transmits it to the person on the other end of the call. The mic may be mounted on the visor or dashboard.
- Wireless connection – Bluetooth or other wireless technology connects the speakers and microphone to the driver’s phone without wires. This allows the driver to keep their phone in their pocket or bag.
Speakers
Hands-free phone kit speakers let the driver hear the phone conversation. There are two main speaker options:
- Built-in car speakers – Many newer cars have Bluetooth connectivity and speakers built into the car stereo system. This allows the phone audio to play through the car’s speakers.
- Portable speakers – For older cars without built-in Bluetooth, portable hands-free speakers can be added. These attach to the sun visor or dashboard.
Microphones
The microphone picks up the driver’s voice and sends it to the person on the other end of the call. Microphones options include:
- Dash mount – Microphones that attach to the dashboard with an adhesive or clip.
- Visor mount – Microphones that clip onto the sun visor.
- Rearview mirror mount – Some microphones mount near the rearview mirror.
Wireless Connection
Bluetooth is the most common wireless technology used to connect hands-free phone kits. Bluetooth has a range of about 30 feet, allowing the phone to stay connected while in a pocket or bag.
What are the benefits of using a hands-free phone kit while driving?
Hands-free phone kits provide the following safety and convenience benefits:
- Reduces distractions – Drivers don’t have to take their hands off the wheel or eyes off the road to use their phone.
- Improves driving ability – Keeping both hands on the wheel gives the driver better control of the vehicle.
- Safer than handheld – Hands-free kits are much safer than holding your phone up to your ear while driving.
- Legal compliance – In many places, it is illegal to drive while holding a phone to your ear.
- Convenient – Drivers can seamlessly transition between music, navigation instructions, and phone calls.
Studies show that hands-free kits reduce the risks associated with phone use while driving by keeping the driver’s eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.
What are the different types of hands-free phone kits?
There are three main types of hands-free phone kits:
Integrated Car Kits
Integrated hands-free systems are built into the car’s infotainment system. Features may include:
- Touch screens
- Steering wheel controls
- Voice commands
- Phone book integration
- Wireless Bluetooth connectivity
Integrated systems provide seamless hands-free use but require a newer vehicle with Bluetooth connectivity.
Aftermarket Car Kits
Aftermarket kits add hands-free phone functionality to older vehicles. Components typically include:
- Speakers that attach to visors or dash
- Microphone mounted on visor or dash
- Control module with Bluetooth wireless
- Aux input cable to connect to car stereo
Professional installation may be required for some aftermarket kits to integrate with the car stereo system.
Portable Hands-Free Kits
Portable kits are the most affordable and easiest to use hands-free option. They include:
- Battery powered speakerphone
- Windshield or dash mount
- Cigarette lighter charger
Portable kits work in any vehicle but may have shorter wireless ranges than installed kits.
What features should you look for in a hands-free phone kit?
Key features to consider when choosing a hands-free kit include:
- Audio quality – Look for clear call quality with noise cancellation features.
- Easy controls – Steering wheel or voice controls allow easy access.
- Reliable wireless connection – Bluetooth range of at least 30 feet.
- Battery powered – For portable kits, long battery life of 5+ hours.
- Caller ID – Know who’s calling without glancing at your phone.
- Voice dialing – Place calls by saying contacts’ names.
Prioritize ease of use and good audio quality when selecting the right hands-free system.
What are the best hands-free phone kits?
Some of the top-rated and best selling hands free phone kits include:
| Hands-Free Kit | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Roav Viva by Anker |
|
| Jabra Freeway |
|
| Plantronics Voyager Legend |
|
Reviews for these hands-free phone kits consistently praise their great sound quality, intuitive controls, long battery life, and advanced voice features.
How much do hands-free phone kits cost?
Hands-free phone kits range widely in price from $20 to $200+ based on the type and features:
- Integrated car kits – $0+ since they are built into newer vehicles already.
- Aftermarket car kits – $50 to $200 for higher quality speaker systems and professional installation.
- Portable kits – $20 to $100+ depending on battery life, speaker quality, and extra features.
More affordable options around $20-$50 provide basic hands-free calling, while high-end systems with better audio and voice control cost over $100.
Are hands-free phone kits legal to use while driving?
In most areas, it is legal to use a hands-free phone kit while driving. Key laws include:
- All US states allow hands-free phone use except handheld phone bans in some areas.
- EU countries prohibit holding a phone while driving but allow hands-free.
- Canada bans handheld phone use with hands-free legal in all provinces.
- Australia bans handheld phones with hands-free legal in all states.
Although hands-free kits are legal, they may still present distraction risks. Drivers should minimize phone use and focus on driving.
What are the safety tips for using hands-free phone kits?
To use a hands-free phone kit safely:
- Program favorite numbers for speed dial or voice dialing.
- Adjust settings before driving such as volume and contacts.
- Learn steering wheel buttons so eyes stay on road.
- Pull over if the conversation becomes complex or distracting.
- Let calls go to voicemail when driving conditions are demanding.
- Avoid phones when driving at high speeds or in bad weather.
The safest option is to keep calls short, use voice commands, and stay focused on driving.
Conclusion
Hands-free phone kits allow drivers to make and take phone calls without taking their hands off the steering wheel. They channel calls through a vehicle’s speakers and use a microphone to capture the driver’s speech. The benefits include improved safety, enhanced driving ability, and legal compliance. When selecting a hands-free kit, look for great audio quality, intuitive controls, and easy access to contacts and voice commands. Following basic safety precautions will keep the driver’s attention focused on the road, not on their phone call.