Waterproof technology in a Bluetooth® headset can be a big advantage for those who frequently use their phone or music player while outdoors but want to leave the electronic device safely stored away from the elements. The advantages of a waterproof Bluetooth® headset are especially popular with seafarers, because it offers exceptional clarity at longer ranges than other wireless technologies. Things to consider when looking for such a headset include the level of waterproofing necessary, sound quality and comfort.
The most important part of selecting a waterproof Bluetooth® headset is determining what level of waterproofing is desired. For people who may work in the rain or merely have the potential of getting wet, simple water resistance will be sufficient. For workers in more demanding environments, such as those on fishing boats who are constantly exposed to large volumes of water, waterproof headsets are a must. Those who require full waterproofing, such as divers, swimmers and boaters must further establish at what depth they will require their headsets to continue functioning.
Sound quality is just as important with a waterproof Bluetooth® headset as it is with any other form of portable speaker. Someone who is seeking such a versatile headset may not want to give up quality simply because he or she wants or needs the ability to function in different conditions that the average Bluetooth® user. Measuring the quality of sound is subjective and the wearer will need to seek a set that is up to par with his or her demands.
Earpieces should be comfortable. They should not feel awkward or heavy to the wearer, especially while operating in wet environments. It is recommended that a waterproof Bluetooth® headset made with absorbent materials be avoided, because it may accumulate water and become heavy, straining the neck. Depending on what the wearer prefers, he or she can choose a headset that goes inside the ear or one that wraps around the head using a band.
Waterproof Bluetooth® headsets can come with or without a microphone. If a microphone is a desired feature, the wearer needs to determine what type of microphone suits his or her needs. Microphones with longer reaches provide crisper voice collection and reduce background noise more efficiently. The longer microphones tend to get in the way and also detract from the appearance of the headset. Shorter microphones look better and are more portable, but they often sacrifice recording quality.
Other factors that should be taken into account are battery life and volume controls. Battery life should exceed the desired usage time. Waterproof Bluetooth® headset wearers usually function in areas where changing batteries is not easy, if even possible. Additionally, some headsets have volume controls for wearers who do not have immediate access to their electronic devices, whether it is in a car across a parking lot or enclosed in a waterproof case of its own.