The number of Bluetooth cell phones has exploded, and similarly, the number of headsets has grown even faster. With more than just a couple of ways to wear these headsets, you will more than likely have a heck of a time finding the correct model for you and your cell phone. And don't forget, while comfort is important, sound quality is the factor that really matters. 

Some first generation headsets were disasters from both a design and functionality point of view.  Today’s new headsets are generally much improved. In general, Bluetooth headsets vary enormously in price.  Some can be found for $30 or less, while others cost $300 and more.  Careful shopping, can save you from an expensive mistake. 

All Bluetooth headsets try to be as small as possible and are single piece designs.  In general, there are two main styles of Bluetooth headsets.  Some are held in place by a loop around the ear - these are generally more comfortable, but may be less secure.  Others are held in place by being physically jammed into your ear.  These are generally less comfortable (ouch) but may sometimes be more secure. 

Practically speaking, a Bluetooth headset should be something you could comfortably wear most all the time. At best, it is something you can quickly and conveniently affix on/around your ear when phone calls come in.  

All have their own separate battery lasting 2-10 hours for talk time (25-250 hours standby). You want the headset to be easy to turn on and off, and should power up and connect to the cell phone as quickly as possible. Naturally, volume controls and other features and functions should be easy to use and understand. Too few Bluetooth headsets adequately meet these criteria.  Usually the biggest common problem is how to securely - but comfortably and conveniently - attach the headset to your ear. 

Compatibility is much less an issue now than it was a year and more ago.  You should however check that any headset you buy has these two compatibility features:

•  It complies with the Bluetooth 1.2 (or greater – 2.0 is now becoming widespread

•  It offers both headset and hands-free profiles

So long as the headset meets these two requirements, you should have no compatibility problems. The good news is that with Bluetooth you don't have to worry about matching headsets to phones.  With regular wired headsets, you need to be certain that they have the correct type of plug for the phone you use, with many different types of plugs being used by the different phone manufacturers.

Bluetooth headsets do offer a great deal of convenience and flexibility, though at a sometimes-hefty cost. Of course you will also want to choose a Bluetooth headset that looks attractive, especially if you are buying one that is relatively expensive. A good Bluetooth headset is easy to understand, setup, and use.  It makes your life simpler and easier.  A bad Bluetooth headset is the opposite and should be avoided at all costs.