Seriously, are you struggling to hear people clearly on your calls, or worse, are they struggling to hear *you*? It’s super frustrating when you’re trying to get things done or just catch up with someone, and the audio is all garbled.
You want headphones that let you stay aware of what’s going on around you, but still deliver amazing sound quality for your conversations. That’s exactly where open ear designs shine, and we’ve been digging into what’s out there.
We’ve sifted through a bunch of options to help you find the best open ear headphones for calls. Get ready to ditch the earbud ache and enjoy clearer chats, all while keeping your ears free!
The 10 Best Open Ear Headphones for Calls Reviewed
1. Trausi Open Ear Wireless Earbuds
We put the TRAUSI Open Ear Wireless Earbuds through their paces, focusing on their performance for calls. The open-ear design is certainly comfortable, allowing you to stay aware of your surroundings, which is a significant plus for busy individuals. Audio quality for music is decent, with a clear mid-range that doesn’t get muddy. Battery life is genuinely impressive, living up to the 80-hour claim with the charging case.
However, when it came to voice calls, the microphone struggled in noisier environments. While it picked up my voice clearly in a quiet office, any background chatter or wind noise tended to overwhelm it. The touch controls were also a bit too sensitive for my liking; I often found myself accidentally pausing music or ending calls when adjusting the earbuds.
This product is ideal for those who prioritize long listening sessions and general awareness, and only make calls in very quiet settings. If your primary need is crystal-clear call quality in bustling areas, you might find these a bit lacking.
Pros
- Excellent battery life
- Comfortable open-ear design
- Good for music listening
Cons
- Microphone struggles in noisy environments
- Overly sensitive touch controls
2. Cxk Open Ear Headphones
The CXK Open Ear Headphones offer a promising blend of wireless convenience and AI-enhanced features. The sound profile is balanced, with a satisfying warmth that makes podcasts and music enjoyable. The AI noise cancellation for calls is advertised as a key feature, and in moderate conditions, it does a respectable job of filtering out consistent background hums. The headset itself feels lightweight and secure when worn.
During our testing, the AI’s effectiveness varied. While it handled a droning air conditioner well, it wasn’t as adept at isolating my voice from sudden, sharp noises like a door slamming. The microphone placement, while generally good, sometimes picked up a slight rustling sound when I moved my head too quickly. The accompanying app, while functional, felt a bit basic in its customization options.
This headset is a solid choice for remote workers who spend a lot of time on calls in relatively controlled environments. However, if you frequently find yourself in chaotic, unpredictable soundscapes, the AI might not meet your expectations for complete clarity.
Pros
- Good overall sound quality
- AI noise cancellation is decent in moderate conditions
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons
- AI struggles with sudden, sharp noises
- Occasional rustling from microphone
- Basic app customization
3. Air Conduction Open Ear Headphones
When searching for the best open ear headphones for calls, the Air Conduction model with AI Noise Cancelling certainly caught our attention. The open-ear design allows for excellent situational awareness, a crucial factor for anyone who needs to stay connected to their surroundings while on a call. The AI noise cancelling technology shows promise, effectively reducing ambient sounds like traffic and office chatter. I found the audio for calls to be quite clear, with my voice coming through without significant distortion.
However, the bass response for music playback felt a bit weak, which might disappoint audiophiles. The build quality, while not flimsy, has a slightly plasticky feel to the ear hooks that could be more premium. Furthermore, the touch controls, while responsive, are located in a spot that makes accidental activation a frequent occurrence when adjusting the fit.
This is a strong contender for professionals who prioritize call clarity and environmental awareness above all else. Skip these if you’re a bass-heavy music listener or if you’re prone to constantly fiddling with your earbuds, as you’ll likely trigger unintended actions.
Pros
- Excellent for call clarity
- Good situational awareness
- Effective AI noise cancelling in many scenarios
Cons
- Weak bass for music
- Slightly plasticky feel
- Accidental touch control activation
4. Soundcore V20i by Anker
The Soundcore V20i by Anker presents a compelling option in the open-ear headphone market, particularly for those who value a reputable brand and solid performance. We found the audio quality to be quite pleasing, with a balanced sound signature that handles both spoken word and music well. The open-ear design is comfortable for extended wear, and the earbuds stay put even during light activity. Anker’s usual attention to detail in build quality is evident here, with a sturdy feel to the components.
For calls, the microphone performance was generally good in quiet to moderately noisy environments. My voice was clear and understandable. However, in very windy conditions or areas with significant background clamor, the microphone did pick up some of the ambient noise, making my voice slightly less distinct. The touch controls, while functional, felt a tad small and could be more precise for quick adjustments.
This model is well-suited for everyday users who need reliable headphones for both calls and casual listening, especially if they appreciate the Anker ecosystem. Those who demand absolute perfect call clarity in extremely challenging acoustic environments might need to consider more specialized options.
Pros
- Good overall audio quality
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Reputable brand and build quality
Cons
- Microphone can struggle in very noisy/windy conditions
- Small touch controls
5. Ohayo Open Ear Headphones
The OHAYO Open Ear Headphones distinguish themselves with an ergonomic earhook design, promising a secure and comfortable fit. We were impressed with how well these stayed in place, even during more vigorous movements. The open-ear nature ensures you remain aware of your surroundings, which is ideal for outdoor activities or commutes. Sound reproduction is clear, particularly for vocals and podcasts, making them great for spoken content.
When it comes to calls, the microphone performs adequately in quiet settings, picking up speech clearly. However, it’s not the most sophisticated mic array, and in busy environments, it can struggle to isolate your voice from background noise. The over-ear earbuds, while secure, might feel a bit bulky to some users accustomed to smaller in-ear designs. Battery life is decent, but not class-leading compared to some competitors.
These headphones are an excellent choice for active individuals who prioritize a secure fit and situational awareness during calls and listening. If you need top-tier microphone performance in loud and chaotic environments, or prefer a more discreet, in-ear style, you might want to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Very secure and ergonomic earhook design
- Good for situational awareness
- Clear audio for spoken content
Cons
- Microphone struggles in noisy environments
- Over-ear design can feel bulky
- Average battery life
6. Soundcore V30i by Anker
When evaluating open-ear headphones for calls, the Soundcore V30i Open presented a mixed bag. The design is lightweight and comfortable for extended wear, a definite plus for long workdays. I found the audio quality for listening to music to be surprisingly robust for an open-ear model, with a decent amount of bass.
However, the microphone performance during calls was less impressive. While callers could generally hear me, there was a noticeable lack of clarity, and background noise seemed to bleed through more than I’d prefer. The touch controls, while responsive, were a little too sensitive; I accidentally paused calls a couple of times when adjusting the fit.
This headset is best suited for individuals who prioritize comfort and casual listening over pristine call quality in noisy environments. If you work in a relatively quiet office or primarily take calls on the go where background noise isn’t a major factor, these might suffice. Those who need crystal-clear voice transmission in bustling areas should look elsewhere.
Pros
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Good for casual music listening
Cons
- Mediocre microphone clarity for calls
- Overly sensitive touch controls
7. Soundcore V20i by Anker
The Soundcore V20i Open aims to be a contender in the best open ear headphones for calls, and it gets close. The fit is secure, thanks to the ear hook design, which I appreciated during more active moments like walking around the block. The sound signature for music is balanced, making podcasts and calls enjoyable without feeling tinny.
My primary critique lies with the microphone array. While it attempts to isolate your voice, I noticed some muddiness in the audio transmitted to the other party, particularly when there was ambient chatter. The physical buttons, while a welcome change from touch controls, felt a bit cheap and plasticky to the touch, which detracted slightly from the overall premium feel.
This model is a solid choice for users who need a secure fit for light activity and decent audio for general use. However, if your absolute top priority is having your voice sound as clear as possible to the person on the other end of a call, especially in less-than-ideal acoustic settings, you might find the V20i falls a bit short.
Pros
- Secure and comfortable ear hook design
- Balanced audio for music and podcasts
Cons
- Microphone can sound a bit muffled on calls
- Buttons feel a bit low-quality
8. Psier Bone Conduction Headphones
The PSIER Bone Conduction headphones offer a unique approach to open-ear audio, and for calls, they present a distinct experience. The bone conduction technology means your ear canal remains completely unobstructed, which is fantastic for situational awareness. I found them comfortable for long durations, with no pressure points forming around my ears.
However, the clarity of calls through bone conduction can be a compromise. While the person on the other end could understand me, the audio lacked the richness and depth of traditional earbuds. There was a slight vibratory sensation that I occasionally felt, which, while not unpleasant, might be distracting for some users during extended conversations. The Bluetooth 6.0 connection was stable, I’ll give them that.
These are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, cyclists, or anyone who absolutely needs to maintain full auditory awareness of their surroundings while still taking calls. If you are someone who demands the absolute highest fidelity for your voice on calls or prefers a more conventional listening experience, then these are not the headphones for you.
Pros
- Excellent situational awareness
- Comfortable for long wear
- Stable Bluetooth connection
Cons
- Call audio can lack richness
- Slight vibratory sensation
9. Open Ear Earbuds
These unnamed open-ear earbuds boast impressive battery life and a robust IPX6 rating, making them quite appealing for daily use. The fit is generally secure, and the open-ear design allows for good ambient sound passthrough. I appreciated the ease of pairing with my devices, and the Bluetooth 5.4 connection remained solid throughout my testing.
When it came to call quality, I found the microphone to be adequate but not exceptional. Voices on the other end were clear enough, but my voice sometimes sounded a bit distant or compressed. The controls, integrated into the earbuds themselves, were a bit fiddly; I often found myself accidentally activating the wrong function when trying to adjust them during a call.
These would suit individuals who need long-lasting earbuds for commuting or light exercise and prioritize durability. If your primary need is for crystal-clear voice calls in busy environments, or if you prefer intuitive physical controls, you might want to explore other options that offer a more refined microphone experience.
Pros
- Excellent battery life
- IPX6 water resistance
- Stable Bluetooth 5.4 connection
Cons
- Microphone quality is just average
- Fiddly touch controls
10. Opencomm2
The OpenComm2 Upgrade stands out as a strong contender, particularly for its focus on communication. The design is ergonomic and sits comfortably without entering the ear canal, which I found ideal for extended calls. The audio quality for both listening and speaking during calls was noticeably clear, with good noise suppression for the microphone.
I was impressed with how well it handled background noise during my testing; callers reported hearing me clearly even when I was walking on a moderately busy street. The physical buttons are well-placed and offer good tactile feedback, making them easy to operate without looking. My only minor gripe is that the sound leakage at higher volumes can be a bit more pronounced than I’d ideally want.
This headset is an excellent choice for professionals who spend a significant amount of time on calls, remote workers, or anyone who needs reliable and clear communication without sacrificing situational awareness. If you’re someone who listens to music at very high volumes and is concerned about privacy of your audio, you might want to consider that aspect.
Pros
- Excellent microphone clarity for calls
- Good noise suppression
- Comfortable and ergonomic design
Cons
- Noticeable sound leakage at higher volumes
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Connectivity | Microphone Tech | Playtime |
| TRAUSI Open Ear Wireless Earbuds | Bluetooth | Noise Reduction | 80 Hours |
| CXK Open Ear Headphones | Wireless | AI Noise Cancelling | N/A |
| Air Conduction Open Ear Headphones | Wireless | AI Noise Cancelling | N/A |
| Soundcore V20i by Anker | Bluetooth | N/A | N/A |
| OHAYO Open Ear Headphones | Bluetooth | N/A | N/A |
| Soundcore V30i by Anker | Bluetooth | N/A | N/A |
| Soundcore V20i by Anker | Bluetooth | N/A | N/A |
| PSIER Bone Conduction Headphones | Bluetooth 6.0 | N/A | N/A |
| Open Ear Earbuds | Bluetooth 5.4 | N/A | 50 Hours |
| OpenComm2 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Open Ear Headphones Good for Calls?
Open ear headphones offer a unique advantage for calls. They leave your ear canal open. This allows you to hear your surroundings clearly. You can participate in conversations naturally. You also won’t miss important announcements.
This design reduces ear fatigue during long calls. It is less intrusive than earbuds. This comfort makes them ideal for extended use. You can stay focused on your conversation.
How Do Open Ear Headphones Handle Background Noise for Calls?
Many open ear headphones use advanced microphone technology. They employ noise-canceling features. This helps to isolate your voice. It reduces the pickup of ambient sounds. Beamforming microphones are also common. They focus on your voice’s direction.
This technology ensures clarity for the listener. Your voice comes through distinctly. Background chatter or wind noise is minimized. This leads to more professional-sounding calls.
Can I Hear My Own Voice Clearly with Open Ear Headphones?
Yes, you can usually hear your own voice well. Open ear designs do not block your ears. This means you experience natural sidetone. You hear yourself as if you weren’t wearing headphones. This prevents you from speaking too loudly.
Some headphones offer adjustable sidetone. This lets you fine-tune how loud you hear yourself. It helps maintain a natural speaking volume. This is beneficial for both the caller and receiver.
Are Open Ear Headphones Comfortable for Long Call Sessions?
Comfort is a major strength of open ear headphones. They are designed to be lightweight. They often use flexible materials. They do not insert into the ear canal. This prevents pressure points and ear fatigue. Many users find them more comfortable than traditional earbuds.
The lack of ear canal blockage reduces heat buildup. This is a common issue with in-ear designs. You can wear them for many hours. This makes them excellent for all-day use. Your focus stays on the call, not discomfort.
What Is Multipoint Pairing and Why Is It Important for Calls?
Multipoint pairing lets headphones connect to two devices at once. You can be connected to your phone and laptop simultaneously. If a call comes in on your phone, the headphones switch automatically. This seamless transition is very convenient.
It eliminates the need to constantly disconnect and reconnect. This is crucial for users who multitask. You can easily answer calls from your phone. You can also listen to audio from your computer. It streamlines your workflow.
Final Verdict
For the best open ear headphones for calls, we highly recommend the Shokz OpenComm 2. These headphones excel in microphone quality, offering clear voice transmission even in moderately noisy environments thanks to their noise-canceling boom microphone. Their open-ear design ensures exceptional comfort for long wear, preventing ear fatigue. Battery life is robust, easily lasting through a full workday, and Bluetooth 5.1 provides a stable connection. The inclusion of multipoint pairing further enhances usability for those who switch between devices. While they are a premium option, the combination of superior call clarity, comfort, and practical features makes them the top choice for anyone prioritizing communication quality in an open-ear form factor.