10 Best Wireless Earbuds for Phone Calls in 2020

Whether you’re working from or always on the go a good set of wireless earbuds for phone calls and video conferences are a must. The best wireless earbuds for phone calls reduce ambient sounds in noisy environments, allowing people to hear your voice, not excessive chatter or background noise. To help you find the best earbuds, we’ve sorted out the best of the best, specifically testing them with phone quality in mind.

The 10 Best Wireless Earbuds For Phone Calls

1. Apple AirPods Pro

If you’re an Apple user, the AirPods Pro will offer up a lightweight, ultra-compact, noise-isolating, and sweatproof design that fits securely to the ears and delivers better overall sound than the original AirPods. With active noise cancellation, ambient noise on phone calls is significantly reduced. The buds also boast transparency mode to let the right sounds in while keeping the background noise out.

Unlike some earbuds for phone calls, the AirPods Pro, fit into the ear securely and never pop out until intended. They come equipped with small, medium, and large ear tips. If you have an iOS device, the handy app will guide you through testing which ear tip will suit your ears best.

In terms of making phone calls, the AirPods Pro have three distinct microphones on each bud, one of which is a beamforming mic that has been designed to pick up on your voice. They also have noise-reduction capabilities plus an innovative vent system that’s designed to relieve some of the pressure that can build up in the air from a noise isolating design. Reduced wind noise and noise-isolating features also allow you to hear callers better.

Key Features:

• Snug fit with up to three ear tip options and fit guidance system
• Active noise cancellation that reduces wind/background sounds
• Pressure-sensitive stem
• Three distinct microphones on each bud
• Vent system to relieve in-ear pressure on long calls
• Portable charging case

2. TaoTronics Sound Liberty 79

For a budget-friendly pair of headphones that can rival the mighty Apple AirPods, look to the TaoTronics Sound Liberty 79 for making phone calls.  With a shape that emulates the curvature of the inner ear, the SoundLiberty 79s sit comfortably for extended phone calls or listening sessions without an uncomfortable pressure build. Controls are touch-sensitive rather than button-based, something that makes using the SoundLiberty 79s easier than other earbud models.

Thanks to an IPX7 waterproof rating, you can talk on the phone in rain (perhaps even the shower) without missing a beat. The unique pill-shaped carry-case doubles as a charger and can hold around five full recharges for the buds. A handy USB-C slot on the rear allows you to power the box itself, while four indicator lights will show you the current level of charge.

These buds deliver a high range of frequencies, making them a great companion for music or making phone calls. The bass is strong but never overbearing and treble performance is seriously well -balanced. The overall design does a fantastic job of shutting out most background noise, though you may want to be aware of your immediate environment if on an important call.

Speaking of phone calls, what makes these the best earbuds for making phone calls? The call quality is excellent thanks to smart noise reduction technology and a killer built-in microphone. Most users cite that those on the other end cannot notice that they are using earbuds rather than the phone itself.

Key Features:

• Well-priced for any budget
• Shape emulates the curvature of the ear for a comfortable fit
• Each bud can work independently of the other
• Great Bluetooth range
• Excellent noise cancellation properties
• The built-in mic is clear and free of reverberation

3. Jabra Elite Active 75T

With a slender and sleek design, the Jabra Elite Active 75T earbuds are some of the best wireless earbuds for phone calls. With three included ear tips to accommodate most users, these buds provide a secure fit while also optimizing audio quality by keeping external noise at bay. Thanks to Jabra’s grip coating, these earbuds stay in place no matter what you’re doing physically while talking on the phone.

Long phone calls are no match for the Jabra Elite 75T integrated pressure relief vent which can keep pressure from building in the air while filtering ambient noise out. Microphone quality on these earbuds proves excellent, thanks to an internal microphone array. The innovative quad-four mic system works in tandem with Jabra’s innovative DSP and beamforming technology to provide concise voice conveyance while spurning all unnecessary background noise.

In terms of battery life, the Jabra Elite 75T earbuds can last a generous 7 hours and 14 minutes on a single charge. If you listen to the volume lower than 75dB while working out or talking on the phone, you can get a slightly longer duration. You may also like some of the best studio headphones from our list, so be sure to check them out.

Key Features:

• Bluepoint 5.0 Multipoint
• Excellent microphone quality with beamforming technology
• Rapid charging and long battery duration
• Auto pause/play modes
• Jabra grip coating and multiple ear tip options
• The integrated pressure relief valve

4. Anker Liberty Air 2

If you’re looking for the best wireless earbuds for phone calls but don’t want to break the bank, the Anker Liberty Air 2 EarBuds may be just what you’re looking for. Though entry-level, these earbuds boast a wildly impressive spec sheet with quality audio, excellent battery life, and serious durability.

Comfortable to wear for long periods of time, the Liberty Air 2 headphones should be well-suited to most, especially those who will be hanging out on conference calls or zoom meetings. For convenience, Anker added in touch controls to resume/pause play or powering on/off. Additionally, these earbuds do boat on-ear detection, which pauses music/conversation as soon as the buds are removed from the ear.

While the Anker Liberty 2 buds do boast some noise cancellation capabilities, they may not be as finely tuned as more expensive earbuds.In terms of phone usage, the clarity on the Liberty Air 2s is unrivaled. Thanks to the 4-microphone system with Clear Voice Noise Reduction Technology, these budget-buds do an excellent job of picking up on vocals in quiet settings.

Key Features:

• Excellent audio for the price, similar to the AirPods from Apple
• Adaptive listening features for an immersive experience
• Great call quality thanks to a 4-microphone system with CVC reduction technology
• Solid battery life for work from home or long commutes with wireless charging capacity
• Easy and reliable connectivity

5. Plantronics Backbeat Pro 5100 True Wireless Earbuds

For a pair of durable earbuds that will stick with you for the long haul, look to the Plantronics Backbeat Pro 5100 True Wireless Earbuds. Made from plastic and silicone, these sleek earbuds are lightweight while still retaining a tough exterior. The circular shape is compact and well-suited to the ear. You’ll never have to suffer from painful hotspots on the outer ear after a long phone meeting.

The Plantronics Backbeat Pro 5100 has a neutral leaning frequency response in terms of sound but does feature above-average isolation performance. They also create a strong enough seal to passively block out most low-frequency noise, though you may hear some background bits coming through on your phone calls.

Speaking of phone calls, microphone quality is above average and the unit can transmit voices well to the receiver on the other end of the call. Plantronics does use noise-canceling technology to help mitigate background noise, which provides the microphone array a chance to pull focus directly to your voice as you speak.

Key Features:

• Comfortable and easy to wear on the ear during long phone calls or teleconferencing
• Easy to connect to Bluetooth devices such as laptops or smartphones
• Autoplay/pause capacity at a touch or when the earbud is removed
• Standard microphone array to help pick up on your voice while keeping background noise at a minimum
• The solid neutral sound quality that will bring most music to life
• Ability to charge within the case

6. Beats Powerbeats Pro

For a spin on the traditional earbud design look to the Beats Powerbeats Pro. Priced similarly to the Apple AirPods Pro, these are completely wireless high-performance headphones that come in a sleek matte black finish. On a single charge, you can garner up to 9 hours of listening time or a whopping 24 hours should you utilize the charging case.

Since long phone calls or teleconference sessions can absolutely wreck havoc on the ears, Beats created adjustable secure-fit ear looks that offer lightweight comfort and stability. The reinforced design can stand up to the elements, which means long walks on the phone in the rain will prove no trouble for these buds. With just a single touch, you can utilize volume and track controls on each earbud, as well as voice capability and auto play/pause.

What really makes these headphones the best wireless earbuds for phone calls is the built-in Apple H1 Headphone Chip and Class 1 Bluetooth. This offers extended range and fewer call dropouts, even as you’re on the  move. One can easily handle a call from either earbud, meaning you do not have to have both buds in the ear to talk clearly and with comfort.

Like the AirPods, the Beats Powerbeats Pro are a true wireless ear-bud with a convenient noise-isolating design. They keep more ambient sound and noise out so that you can hear callers ( as well as music and audio) better. The built-in microphone is crisp and free from reverberation, even in spotty signal areas. Make sure you also check our guide to the best bluetooth headsets for truckers.

Key Features:

• 9-hours of uninterrupted listening time (charge in case capability)
• Noise-isolating design for reduced ambient noise on phone calls
• Apple H1 Headphone Chip and Class 1 Bluetooth for extended range
• Secure-fit ear hooks for a stable and comfortable design
• Ability to play both sides or just one at a time
• Crisp and well-balanced audio that truly lives up to the Beats reputation

7. Amazon EchoBuds

For an immersive set of wireless earbuds with Amazon Alexa capability the Amazon EchoBuds are tough to beat for phone calls. Premium immersive speakers deliver crisp dynamic audio while Bose Active Noise Reduction Technology and sealed in-ear design helps to eliminate background noise. Unlike other buds, these are totally hands free with Alexa, meaning you can make phone calls by simply asking your assistant.

The EchoBuds offer up a long-lasting battery, with up to 5 hours of music playback per charge and up to 20 hours of usage with the charging case. Comfort is key with these buds, as Amazon has thoughtfully included 3 sizes of ear tips to help form a comfortable in-ear seal, making these ideal for phone calls, teleconferencing, or simply listening to music.

What really makes the EchoBuds stand out among the other options for best wireless earbuds for phone calls is the ability to protect your privacy. Few earbuds are built with multiple layers of privacy protections and controls like the EchoBuds are. When on an important phone call Amazon included the ability to mute the mics with the Alexa App.

Key Features:

• Premium speaker drivers deliver crisp audio while Bose Noise Reduction Technology drowns out background noise
• Completely hand-free with the built in Amazon Alexa assistant
• Custimizable fit for better sound and enhanced comfort for long phone calls
• Long lasting battery with up to 20 hours of playback with the included charging case
• Sweat and water resistant
• Built-in privacy features including the ability to mute the mics with the Alexa app

8. Jabra Elite Active 65T

Budget-friendly and built for an active lifestyle, the Jabra Elite Active 65T stands as one of the best wireless earbuds for phone calls. Secure and stable, these earbuds are fully customizable, allowing you to listen to music or phone calls in your own way by personalizing your sound on the Jabra+ Sound app. With Jabra’s 3rd generation wireless stability, you can take calls and listen to music without the fear of a dreaded audio dropout, all while enjoying up to 15 hours of use on a single charge.

Voice command features allow you to connect to Alexa, Siri, or the Google Assistant to make phone calls, ask information, or simply go over your daily schedule. In terms of making calls, the Jabra Elite Active 65T earbuds are hard to beat. The innovative 4-microphone technology offers best from class call performance.

A dual mic in each earbud and a handy sidetone feature allows you to hear your own voice in the wireless earbuds as you talk. Additionally, the snug fit and noise isolating capacity keep background noise at a minimum, meaning your phone calls always come across as clear and concise.

Key Features:

• True wireless earbuds that never slip or feel uncomfortable
• Ability to personalize your sound options on the Jabra+ Sound App
• Jabra Wireless Stability makes call dropouts a thing of the past
• Up to 15 hours use with the included charging case
• Ability to access Alexa, Siri, and Google Home for voice functionality
• 4-microphone technology for best in class call performance

9. Anker Soundcore Liberty Pro 2

Anker is well known for creating value headphones that work just as well as their premium counterparts. The Anker Soundcore Liberty Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds are truly a step into the premium direction. With Astria Coaxial Acoustic Architecture and an 11mm dynamic driver, these earbuds completely eliminate interference while producing a harmonized treble and bass for amazing sound.

With an impressive 8-hour playtime and Hear ID Custom Sound, every user gets a personalized listening experience. HearID analyzes your unique hearing profile to create a tailored sound set just for your ears. That’s ideal for listening to music or enduring a long phone call in which volume control can prove a hassle.

In terms of making phone calls, the Anker Soundcore Liberty Pro 2 does not disappoint. With 4 built-in microphones and cVC 8.0 noise reduction, your voice is stealthily isolated and transmitted in super high-clarity for a totally seamless experience. Although this model does not have active noise cancellation, the mic itself can help to reduce ambient sound so that callers can hear you even better.

Key Features:

• Astria Coaxial Acoustic Architecture and a customized Knowles balanced armature
• 8-hour playback time when utilized with the included charging case
• Hear ID Custom Sound to ensure you have a personalized and perfect listening experience every time
• 4-built in microphones and cVc 8.0 noise reduction for perfect call clarity every time
• Single-ear listening capacity thanks to independent connectivity features
• Universal comfort and a simple secure fit

10. Samsung Galaxy Buds Plus

When you want to truly isolate yourself from distracting noises and stay focused on your phone call, turn to the Samsung Galaxy Buds+. Thanks to Ambient Aware 2 technology, you can choose which noises you’d like to pay attention to and which you’d like to cancel out.

With the Galaxy Buds+, you can get up to 22 hours of seamless sound when utilizing the included charging case. In terms of phone calls, the Galaxy Buds+ are hard to beat. A dedicated internal and two external microphones can pick up your voice alone and isolate it from all outside noises. You always come across loud and clear.

When you’re on a call, your voice can come through richly and confidently, even if you’re standing on a noisy subway terminal. The dual drivers in each bud let you hear your voice in the earbuds while making calls, all while providing rich robust sound. While the Galaxy Buds were initially geared towards Android users, there is now an iOS app that grants Apple connectivity.

Key Features:

• Available in four robust and vibrant color options
• Ambient Aware 2 technology allows you to decide what sounds come in and which stay out
• Impressive 22 hours of battery time with the included charger
• An dedicated internal microphone and dual external microphones pick up your voice and isolate it from outside noise
• Android and iOS compatible for use with all smartphones, wearables, and tablets
• A dynamic 2-way speaker system and boosted sound for powerful bass and crisp high notes

The Best Wireless Earbuds for Phone Calls Buying Guide

What To Look For When Buying Wireless Earbuds

With so many options in the wireless earbud market, choosing the right pair can seem overwhelming. If you’re looking for the best wireless earbuds for phone calls, we’ve rounded up the factors you need to consider before completing your purchase. What should you look for when buying wireless earbuds?

Cost

Sometimes with wireless earbuds, you truly get what you pay for. Good wireless earbuds aren’t typically priced lower than $50 because they require a high-quality Bluetooth chip from a manufacturer like Qualcomm and a decent battery.

Ear-tip Options

A great pair of earbuds should include several silicone ear-tip options. If you buy earbuds where the ear tips are too small or too shallow, they won’t form a good seal in your ear canal and you’ll never get good sound.  You will also be plagued by background noises.

Battery and Charging Case

Ideally, you want to be able to get at least 5-8 hours out of a pair of earbuds before you’ll need to pop them back into the charging case. Speaking of charging, always ensure that your wireless earbuds include a dedicated charging case which can greatly extend battery life while on the go.

Included Controls

Look very closely at the controls a pair of wireless earbuds offer. Can you control the earbuds with the tap of a finger or via voice? These things may not seem important, but the right controls make the connectivity and seamlessness of use that much higher.

Internal/External Microphone

If you call clarity is at the top of your list, look for a pair of headphones that boasts both an internal and external microphone. While not necessarily a marker of a good pair of wireless earbuds, it can be paramount if you’re going to primarily use the headphones for work or teleconferencing.

Volume

Different wireless earbuds will include different volume capacity. Some will only allow you to reach a maximum of 50% volume, while others allow you to turn them all the way up. If you have trouble hearing or need that volume boost, keep this in mind.

What To Consider Before Purchasing Wireless Earbuds

When purchasing wireless earbuds it can be tempting to only focus on price, brand, and aesthetics. As mentioned above, a few of these things are important. However, there is more to consider before purchasing wireless earbuds.

First, consider if wireless earbuds are right for you. Are you someone who struggles to find a proper fit? You may want to consider an over the ear option instead.

Specifications

If you have settled on wireless earbuds, make sure you go over specifications with a fine tooth comb. Looks, price, and brand don’t always add up to quality. Always check out the specifications of the product in the packaging and look into the details carefully. Strive to check for:

• Impedance
• Sensitivity
• Frequency Response
• Drivers

Perfect Fit

Let’s face it, not every pair of wireless earbuds are going to offer you the perfect fit you desire. Factors like your ear shape and the overall design of the earbud can affect the overall comfort during wear. The wrong pair of earbuds can hurt your ears after usage, especially if you have sensitive outer ears.

Since you can’t try out a pair of wireless earbuds before you buy, look for a pair that nestles gently within the ear hole. Look for rubber tips and variable tip options as they will not hurt like the plastic ones. If comfort is really key, strive to pick up a pair of comfort earbuds with custom molded tips that contour to your ear.

Overall Type/Specialization

Much like people, earbuds come in all shapes and sizes. Some will serve one purpose while others will serve an entirely different set of needs. Take into account the kind of activity you’ll likely be using your earbuds for.

For example, if you’re mostly  using your earbuds while working from home and taking phone calls, sound isolation is likely quite important. If you’re only using the earbuds to workout,, you’ll want buds that offer an active and secure fit.

Here are the types of earbuds you can keep in mind before purchasing:

• Sound isolation. Blocks out other noises and surroundings so you can actually hear what you’re listening to.
• Noise cancellation. These block out any kind of noise in your surroundings, these are different from sound isolating earbuds.
• Sweat resistant. Designed to withstand moisture from sweat while working out.
• Connect to your device using Bluetooth technology, perfect for any activity that requires movement or simply taking phone calls.

Wireless EarBud FAQ

Q: Are  wireless earbuds safe?

Despite some claims that the radiation put forth by wireless earbuds can cause cancer, research has not yet proven this to be true. In fact, bluetooth radiation emitted by wireless earbuds is non-ionizing. That means it isn’t powerful enough to mess with your DNA or cause tumors. These rays are very different from Gamma Rays, meaning you can safely use wireless earbuds without worry.

Q: Are wireless earbuds better than wired?

While wired headphones may provide a more high fidelity sound, most people prefer the freedom of wireless earbuds because you can walk, move, run, and dance without getting tangled up in cables or wires. Additionally, most wireless earbuds now offer sound composition that is on par with most wired headphones.

At the end of the day, wireless earbuds are better if you want to listen to music, manage calls, or simply live your life without having to pull out your mobile phone.

Q: Why are wireless earbuds so popular?

Wireless earbuds are so popular because they automatically pair with your smartphone, wearable device, computer or tablet and connect instantly when you open the case. They are lightweight, comfortable, and offer excellent battery life. Premium sound, a built-in microphone, and voice commands allow you to garner a true sound experience without the messy tangle of wires and limitations traditional headphones can bring.

Additionally, beamforming microphones and built-in microphones allow one to seamlessly talk to others without having to even pull out a smartphone, all while isolating outside noise from the call.

The Takeaway

Finding the best pair of wireless headphones for phone calls comes down to many factors, including price, comfort, sound, and the microphone capacity. While most will enjoy the premium features of the Apple AirPod Pros, there are plenty of budget options like the Anker Liberty 2 that can provide crystal clear phone calls without the hefty price tag.