When we think about walkie-talkies or two-way radios, we usually associate them with our childhood when we used them to talk to our friends when there weren’t any cell phones available. However, today hands free communication is used for certain jobs, such as construction workers, security personnel, hospitality and event workers, and others.
Some people even like to have a portable radio for emergencies when their phones don’t have a signal. Whether you want to have a reliable radio earpiece for your job or personal use, it’s important to ensure that you get a good-quality headset.
There are so many different kinds on the market, including ones that offer hearing protection, cancel out noise, and are wireless. In this review, we will talk about some of the important features to look for in 2-way radio headsets and list some of the best 2-way radio headsets on the market for reliable communication.
Let’s find the right headset for your needs below.
10 Best Two-Way Radio Headsets:
Different Types of Two-Way Radio Headsets:
Wireless vs. Wired:
Some of the headsets available on the market have wireless or wired capabilities. Wireless two-way communication headsets might be better for those working in a field that needs to be more discreet, although anyone may choose to get them.
Wireless can also be easier to operate and more convenient. They come with a wireless adapter that wireslessy connects or plugs into the earphone hole of your Walkie Talkie. Of course, then it would be best if you paired it with the headset.
Wired options won’t require any charge, have a longer battery life, and are preferred by people working in the security industry. They have a cable which connects to a radio in your pocket.
With today’s technology, the sound quality of wired vs wireless provides about the same communications clarity.
Noise-canceling:
Some options provide noise-canceling abilities, which is important depending on why you need to use them. If you’re in a crowded and noisy area, for example, having a headset that cancels out background noise will allow you to hear better the person you’re speaking to.
Headphones vs. Earpiece:
Finally, you can also choose between whether you want an earpiece or regular headphones. This will ultimately depend on the reason why you need to use a headset. For example, it may be completely inconvenient to use headphones if you need a radio headset while on the job.
Earpieces for example are designed specifically to be discreet.
PTT vs VOX (Push-to-talk vs Voice Activated)
You can use earpices with a PTT button by simply push to talk (you always see the secret service agent in the movies touch his earpiece). The other type is VOX which is activated by speaking into the radio earpice which picks up the audio instantly, providing convenient hands-free communication.
Brands
Retevis:
Retevis is a brand that has had plenty of highly-rated radio headsets. They have manufactured communications devices for all different purposes, including for business and the outdoors and ones that are waterproof and for children. You will be able to browse through some of the options they have on their website.
Their radios also come with all kinds of different accessories, including headsets, microphones, and cables. Overall, people tend to trust the products that this brand produces if they need radios of any sort, and we have included some of their products on our list.
Arcshell:
Arcshell is another brand that many people seem to trust with their radios. They have received good reviews from several retailers, and according to two-way radio headset reviews, are the same or better quality than other manufacturers. They also offer additional accessories.
Arcshell’s products tend to work the same, if not better, than those manufactured by much more expensive brands. So it’s definitely worth checking out some of the products that we have included on our list from this brand.
Best Wireless Two-Way Communication Headsets & Reviews:
This is one of the most popular two-way radio headsets with a mic on Amazon. It comes with behind-the-ear microphones that you can fit in your ears. It’s completely compatible with any Midland products, and there are several reasons you can choose to purchase it, including for activities such as hunting, travel, security, and more.
It’s said that the behind-the-ear feature is completely comfortable and will be easier to use than many other earphone headsets on the market. Even hearing problems said that this headset allowed them to hear sound comfortably and without any issues.
It’s easy to use and wear, which makes it a good system to consider for any reason that you need a two-way headset. There is a microphone on each earpiece with a VOX setting, or you can use the button to activate it each time you speak.
This purchase also comes with two headsets so you can stay connected with at least one other person right out of the box.
Pros
- This headset can be used only with Midland Radios
- Behind-the-ear microphones, for easy and clear communication.
- Very good price considering all the features it has.
Cons
- Can't be used with any other brands except Midland Intercom models. Other headsets will connect with more models.
As we mentioned above, Retevis is one of the most popular brands for radio headsets. This set, in particular, comes with a long earpiece. It’s 52 inches long from the PTT to the plug, and there is a transparent tube that connects to the earpiece. So, it’s not completely noticeable. And according to reviews, the earbud is very comfortable, and it’s suitable for use over a long period of time.
It also will provide you with crystal-clear sound, making your conversations a lot easier to hear. It’s the perfect headset to consider if you need to communicate hands-free. You can attach the clip to your shirt.
Another thing that many people mentioned is that the build quality seems to be very good, and they knew that they were able to get a lot of use out of the product. In addition, you have a 60-day warranty when you purchase it if anything goes wrong.
Pros
- Compatible with Retevis, Arcshell AR-5, Kenwood two-way radio models and more.
- It has a microphone allowing you to communicate hands-free with other people.
- Comfortable earpiece so you can wear it for a long time.
Cons
- Not compatible with Motorola two-way radios.
This is a regular 2-way radio headset that includes regular headphones, not earphones, which you will want to consider. It has a microphone that provides noise cancellation, so even if you’re in a little bit of a noisy area, your partner will be able to hear you clearly. The speakers come with volume control so that you can adjust the volume as necessary.
This two radio headset has a noise reduction rating of 24 decibels, and a fairly good amount of hearing protection. They work well with any two-way radios and are perfect for any situation where you might be in a loud environment but still need to communicate.
These are commonly used as aviation headsets or somewhere like the pit crew on the race track, they are extremely versatile.
Pros
- Designed for use with a two-way radio or intercom. They are compatible with Motorola radios (however you may need a standard 2-pin connector).
- Features a DNC microphone and head speakers so you can talk and hear clearly.
- Have a 24dB noise reduction rating, making them suitable to use in noisy environments.
Cons
- Have a bulky headset design.
This headset is said to provide very clear audio quality, even if you are in noisier environments, so if you’re someone who does not hear too well, this could be a good choice for you. In addition, it’s compatible with many other brands on the market, so you don’t necessarily have to purchase something from the same brand.
There are many different reasons you can use this, including if you work in security or the police or simply need a device that provides hands-free communication. It’s easy to use, and the earplug fits into your ear perfectly. In addition, it’s transparent, and you won’t have to worry about any frequency drops.
Pros
- It's compatible with the following two radio brands: Kenwood, Baofeng, Puxing, and Wouxun.
- The earplugs have an ergonomic design, so they can fit comfortably and securely in your ear canal.
- This TOMSENN earpiece transmits clear sound even in a noisy environments.
Cons
- Will not work with Motorola, Midland, or Icom two-way radios.
This is a Bluetooth headset that is very functional and easy to use and operate. You can connect it to two devices simultaneously, for example, your walkie-talkie and another Bluetooth device such as a phone or table. With the Bluetooth feature there is no cable at all.
It has ergonomic and can fit on either your right or left ear. The microphone can be rotated 270 degrees, and you get two sizes of ear tips, so you can choose the one which fits more securely.
In addition, to this, the earpiece is designed to provide noise isolation and cancel out any background noise. So if you’re looking for a headset for riding your bike or driving your car, this is a great option.
Pros
- It's compatible with Kenwood, Linton, PUXING, Wouxun, Baofeng, HYT, Quansheng.
- Bluetooth technology so you can connect it to your walkie-talkie or two-way radio wirelessly.
Cons
- Can't be used with Motorola or Midland walkie-talkies.
Here is an option for a two-way radio headset that is transparent and discreet enough to be perfect for use by those working in security and need private communication. The headset comfortably wraps around your ear and can be used for all-day purposes.
If you need something that will allow you to talk hands-free, out final verdict is this is the right choice. It also provides an inline switch that will allow you to have VOX and push-to-talk on your radio system.
There is also a clip that allows you to attach it to your clothes to keep the headset out of your way. There are plenty of different activities that you can participate in using this headset. They also work with many systems, so you do have a variety of choices to consider.
Pros
- Can be used with all Midland GXT, LXT and G-series GMRS/FRS radios.
- The microphone can pick up your voice, even if you're not talking directly into it.
- Comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
Cons
- It's not compatible with Motorola two-way radios.
This is another great Bluetooth wireless headset that you can use with several Motorola walkie-talkie two-way radios, as well as Bearcom, HYT and other brands. You can also connect it to your iPhone or just about any Bluetooth-compatible device.
This means that you can talk on your walkie-talkie or phone wirelessly, which is convenient for most people. It comes with two-way radio wireless adapter, a Bluetooth headset v4.0, and wireless PTT.
Pros
- You can use it with Motorola, Bearcom, RELM and other brands.
- Delivers good sound quality.
Cons
- The battery lasts for around 7-8 hours, after which you'll have to charge it.
Buying Guide for Walkie-talkies & earpiece
When you purchase a 2-way radio headset, however, there are some factors that you will want to consider. Let’s look at some of them before deciding which is the best two-way radio headset.
Brand and Customer Reviews:
For one, you must purchase a headset made by a reputable brand. You want to make sure that it’s durable, that it will last a long time, and that the material it’s made out of is comfortable enough for you to wear.
It’s essential to read the reviews and see what other people say regarding how clear the sound is and whether or not the earpiece provides noise isolation. In addition, it may be necessary for the headset to provide volume control. Also, look at the price and see if the piece is within your budget.
Background Noise Reduction:
The best headset should also have a noise reduction rating if you work in a noisy place. It’s always essential to protect your hearing, so you may want to pay attention.
Remember that the higher a product’s noise reduction rating is, the more protection you will get. You can use a decibel meter to measure how loud a particular noise is to determine if you need hearing protection.
In addition, canceling any background noise will allow better communication between you and the other person on the line. This is especially important if you’re planning on using the headset on your job.
How do you plan on using the two-way radio headset?
It’s also important to consider why you need such a headset. Is it necessary for your job? Do you need more discreet ones if you’re working as a police officer or security guard? Or is it something that you plan on having for personal use?
You may be using them for leisure, such as airsoft communication headsets.
The answers to these questions will help determine the kind you should get. For example, security would benefit the most from having wireless two-way communication headsets or one that is discreet and has a transparent design.
Tip: if you work in the aviation industry, check out our review of the best aviation headsets.
Conclusion
Staying connected with communications from your group or partner is important and you want a great device you can rely on. At least one of the above models will help you with your goal.
They have a built-in microphone behind the ear and a transparent design. They also have background noise canceling properties, protecting your hearing and making communication easier. In addition to this, they are entirely comfortable and easy to use.
Our final verdict is that there are many communication devices that will achieve your goal, it all depend on your needs.
There are plenty of different reasons why many people consider getting radio headsets, whether it be for situations where their phones don’t have a signal, for their jobs, or for other activities such as hunting. One of the best two-way radio headsets you can find online is the CYen Two Way Radio Earpiece Noise Canceling Transparent Headphones.
Check out Sensear Communication Headset Reviews
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Sources:
https://www.workplacesafetygroup.com/site/blog/2019/06/06/two-way-radio-training-is-required