A hands-free device for your car allows you to take calls and access voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant without taking your hands off the steering wheel. This is important for staying focused on the road and avoiding distracted driving. With so many options on the market, how do you choose the right hands-free system for your needs and budget? We’ll compare the top devices and highlight key factors to consider so you can make an informed decision.
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Types of Hands-Free Devices
There are three main types of hands-free systems for your vehicle:
Bluetooth Headsets
Bluetooth headsets are wireless earpieces that connect to your phone via Bluetooth. Many are designed to fit comfortably and securely in one ear. Basic headsets allow you to take calls hands-free, while more advanced options add features like voice commands, dual microphones for noise reduction, and sensors that detect when you’re speaking.
Pros:
– Inexpensive ($50-$200 range)
– Portable for use in any vehicle
– Long battery life (5+ hours of talk time)
Cons:
– Can be bulky on the ear
– Sound quality isn’t as good as speaker systems
– Limited features
Bluetooth Speakerphones
Bluetooth speakerphones clip onto your sun visor or mount on the dash. They have an integrated speaker and microphone so you can take calls without holding your phone. Some have multi-point connectivity to pair with two phones.
Pros:
– Allow hands-free calling and music streaming
– Good sound quality
– Don’t need to wear anything
Cons:
– Can block view more than headsets
– Need to be charged
– Not as portable between vehicles
Integrated Bluetooth Systems
Many new cars have integrated Bluetooth that pairs with your phone. Calls are routed through the vehicle’s speakers and picked up via built-in mics. Voice commands may also be included.
Pros:
– Convenient hands-free calling
– Utilizes car speakers for excellent audio
– Built-in voice control capabilities
– Don’t need to install anything extra
Cons:
– Only works in that specific car
– Features can vary between vehicles
– Setup can be tricky on some systems
Key Factors to Consider
Ease of Use
Look for a hands-free device that’s simple and intuitive to operate, especially while driving. Steering wheel controls, voice commands, and one-touch calling make it easier to access features safely.
Audio Quality
Sound quality on both ends of the call is key. Seek out background noise reduction and HD voice capabilities for the best experience. Integrated car systems usually deliver better audio than portable options.
Road Noise Reduction
Engine noise, wind, and tires on pavement can make it hard to hear calls. Advanced microphones and digital signal processing help eliminate ambient road noise so conversations come through clearly.
Voice Control
Hands-free access to virtual assistants allows you to place calls, send messages, get directions, play music, and more just using your voice. Make sure the device has built-in or smartphone integration for Siri, Google Assistant, etc.
Charging Options
Look for a long battery life and charging options like USB, wireless charging, or a spare battery to ensure your device stays powered on the go.
Multi-Point Connectivity
The ability to pair with two phones keeps you connected to both work and personal numbers. This is especially useful if you switch between iOS and Android devices.
Wearability and Comfort
For headsets, find an ergonomic design that fits your ear without being too bulky. The device shouldn’t add strain or distraction during long drives.
Price
Hands-free systems range from $50 to $200+ for more advanced options with better sound and features. Integrated systems depend on your vehicle. Determine how much you’re willing to spend for the functionality you need.
The Top 5 Hands-Free Systems
Based on critical reviews and customer ratings, here are 5 of the top-rated hands-free systems for your car:
| Device | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Jabra Freeway | HD voice, dual mics, Siri/Google integration | $100 |
| Plantronics Voyager 5200 | Active noise cancelling, Alexa integration, charges in car dock | $130 |
| Anker Soundcore Flare 2 | HD speakers, bass, 18-hour playtime | $60 |
| Avantree 10BS | Long range, multi-point pairing, attaches to visors | $35 |
| Bose Hearphones | Discrete earbuds, noise cancelling, 20 hours battery | $250 |
Jabra Freeway
The Jabra Freeway earpiece consistently tops charts for its premium sound, intuitive controls, and integrated virtual assistant access. Dual microphones block out noise for smooth hands-free calls. It’s designed for comfort with interchangeable ear gels. Key features include:
– HD Voice and 3-mic noise cancellation
– One-touch Siri and Google access
– Bluetooth connectivity up to 33 feet
– Buttons to mute, adjust volume, and take calls
– Pairs with two phones simultaneously
– 14 hours of talk time
– Passenger audio option
If you want a high-end headset with great audio and voice assistant integration, the Jabra Freeway is an excellent choice.
Plantronics Voyager 5200
With three mics that actively cancel disruptive background noise, the Voyager 5200 keeps your conversations clear wherever you drive. It announces incoming callers and seamlessly interacts with voice assistants. The comfortable earpiece has intuitive controls and a portable charging case. Notable features:
– Wind-protected mics minimize distraction
– Pairs with two smartphones at once
– Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant integration
– Voice alerts for connectivity and battery life
– 7 hours talk time + extra 10 hours with charging case
– Plantronics Vocaliq audio tech optimizes voice quality
For exceptional call clarity on the road, the Voyager 5200 is a top-rated pick. The charging case provides extra convenience.
Anker Soundcore Flare 2
The Anker Soundcore Flare 2 is a compact Bluetooth speaker that delivers remarkably full, clear 360-degree audio for under $100. The waterproof orb syncs effortlessly with your smartphone and pumps out vivid sound, with robust bass courtesy of a 5.25-inch driver and passive radiator. Features include:
– Custom equalizer and HD stereo pairing
– BassUp technology and high-res certification
– IPX7 waterproof rating
– USB-C and wireless charging
– 20-hour battery life when fully charged
– Built-in mic for speakerphone calls
– PartyCast enables syncing 100+ speakers
With bold sound in a portable package, the Flare 2 is ideal for calls and tunes on the go. It outperforms most hands-free devices for under $100.
Avantree 10BS
The Avantree 10BS Bluetooth speakerphone is designed specifically for in-car use. It conveniently mounts to your visor and connects directly to the car for constant power. Two high-quality mics ensure excellent call quality. The 10BS stands out for:
– Easy install clips on visors
– Crisp sound with two 5W speakers
– Automatically reconnects when you start car
– Multi-point to pair with 2 phones
– Hands-free calling and music
– Talk time of 15-20 hours
– Streams audio from non-Bluetooth devices
– Voice prompts for connectivity and battery
At just $35, this device delivers reliable hands-free calling without complex installation or charging. It’s a great budget option.
Bose Hearphones
Bose Hearphones are high-tech Bluetooth earbuds engineered to provide the clearest calls possible in noisy environments like the car. Their four-mic system hones in on your voice while simultaneously cancelling ambient sounds. Key advantages include:
– Microphones optimize speech pick-up
– Proprietary Bose noise rejection
– Comfortable, secure eartip fit
– 20 hours battery life per charge
– IPX4 water resistance rating
– Siri and Google Assistant integration
– Voice control for calls and music
– Bose AR audio augmented reality
If call clarity is your top priority, Bose Hearphones deliver with advanced microphone technology in lightweight wireless earbuds. At $250, they are a premium investment for hands-free talk time.
Conclusion
When choosing the best hands-free system for your car, consider key factors like sound quality, noise cancellation, virtual assistant integration, comfort, and budget. Leading options include dedicated Bluetooth headsets like the Jabra Freeway, integrated speakers like the Anker Flare 2, and for top-of-the-line call clarity, advanced earbuds such as Bose Hearphones. Evaluate your priorities and compare the pros and cons to select the right device for safe, convenient hands-free calling while you drive.