In today’s world, earbuds with built-in microphones have become a crucial accessory for making phone calls on the go. The market is flooded with numerous options, making it challenging to find the best earbuds for phone calls. In this article, we will share our top recommendations for the best earbuds for phone calls in 2023.
Table of Contents
1. Bose Quiet Comfort Earbuds 2 Truly Wireless
The Bose Quiet Comfort Earbuds 2 Truly Wireless earbuds have secured the top spot on our list. These earbuds offer a premium design and solid extra features for casual use. While their mic performance may not be the best, their noise-canceling ANC system effectively cuts down background noise. The battery life of these earbuds is also impressive, lasting well over six hours continuously. However, it is important to note that the microphone’s distance from the mouth affects its ability to separate speech from background noise.
2. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
If you are looking for a more affordable option without sacrificing features, consider the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 earbuds. These premium buds have an auto-accept call feature and offer better noise handling than the Bose Quiet Comfort Earbuds 2 Truly Wireless. The recording quality of the microphone is passable, allowing your voice to remain intelligible. While the ANC may not outperform our top pick, it still helps reduce distracting sounds. The bass-heavy sound profile of these earbuds is great for enjoying music between calls, and their flat mid-range ensures clear speech.
3. Nothing ear (1) True Wireless
For those looking for mid-range Bluetooth earbuds for phone calls, we recommend the Nothing ear (1) True Wireless. Although their ANC performance may not be on par with the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3, these sleek buds feature a stem design that places the microphone closer to your mouth. This results in a slightly better recording quality and excellent noise handling. With over five and a half hours of battery life, these earbuds are suitable for moderate use. Additionally, their sound is versatile, and you can customize it using the companion app’s graphic EQ and presets.
4. TOZO NC7 Truly Wireless
If you are on a budget, the TOZO NC7 Truly Wireless earbuds are worth considering. Despite being more affordable, they still offer decent recording quality for phone calls. Like other truly wireless options, it is advisable to make calls from quieter environments to ensure clear communication. These earbuds have a remarkable battery life of over eight hours, making them ideal for long workdays. The standout feature of the TOZO NC7 is their ANC system, which effectively reduces noise from sources like traffic or office chatter.
5. Apple EarPods Wired Earbuds
For those who prioritize call quality above all else, the Apple EarPods wired earbuds are a reliable option. Although not as refined or feature-packed as other buds on our list, the EarPods offer excellent recording quality. With the mic positioned closer to the mouth, these earbuds can effectively separate speech from background noise, ensuring clear communication. While they lack customizability and noise-canceling features, they have a well-balanced sound profile, making voices sound clear and natural.
Conclusion
Selecting the right earbuds for phone calls is crucial for clear and uninterrupted communication. Our extensive testing has led us to recommend the Bose Quiet Comfort Earbuds 2 Truly Wireless as the best overall option. However, depending on your budget and specific requirements, the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3, Nothing ear (1) True Wireless, TOZO NC7 Truly Wireless, or Apple EarPods Wired Earbuds may also suit your needs. Choose the earbuds that best align with your preferences and enjoy crystal-clear phone calls in 2023.
FAQ
How does the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology work in earbuds, and how does it affect call quality?
ANC technology works by using built-in microphones to pick up external sounds. Then, the earbuds generate a sound wave that is the exact opposite (anti-phase) to cancel out the noise. In the context of call quality, a good ANC system helps to minimize background noise, not just for the listener, but also for the person on the other end of the call by isolating the speaker’s voice and eliminating unwanted sounds.
For a deeper dive into ANC technology, you might explore the book “Active Control of Noise and Vibration” by Colin Hansen and Scott Snyder, or visit websites like HowStuffWorks that provide comprehensive explanations about technological concepts.
How does microphone placement in earbuds affect voice clarity during calls?
The placement of the microphone can significantly impact the clarity of voice transmission during calls. When the microphone is closer to the mouth, it can more easily capture the speaker’s voice and mitigate ambient noise, ensuring clearer communication. Some earbuds utilize a stem design to achieve this, while others might have multiple microphones placed strategically to optimize voice pick-up.
For more information on microphone technology and placement, you can read “Microphone Array Signal Processing” by Jacob Benesty, Jingdong Chen, and Yiteng Huang, or visit audio technology forums and websites for detailed articles and discussions.
How does the sound profile of earbuds impact voice calls and music playback, and how can users adjust it according to their preferences?
The sound profile of earbuds affects how voice and music are heard during playback. A well-balanced sound profile ensures that voices are clear and natural during calls, while a customizable EQ allows users to adjust the bass, mids, and treble to their liking for music playback. Some earbuds come with companion apps that allow users to customize the sound profile to their preferences.
“The Art of Equalization” by Thomas Juth provides an insightful look into the art and science of EQ in audio production. Additionally, platforms like SoundGuys and What Hi-Fi? often delve into the sound quality and profiles of various earbuds, offering practical advice for users.
Last Updated on November 4, 2023