Do You Really Need a Loud Cell Phone?
Do You Need a Loud Cell Phone or Something Else?
Many of us have trouble hearing on our cell phone at least occasionally. Perhaps you're someone who works in a noisy environment and can't hear those important calls. Of course the person you're talking to also can't hear above the din around you either.
Or maybe you're just someone who may have either a slight hearing loss or difficulty discriminating sounds over a cell phone.
Either way, you may need something to step up the volume a bit so that your cell phone acts like the communication device it's supposed to be. A loud cell phone might help but there are other options out there. This page will introduce you to a few other possibilities.
The Options That Can Help You Hear Better on Your Cell Phone
Here are the three primary products that can help you out.
Amplified headsets. At the basic end of the spectrum, a headset can move the sound closer to your ear, help to passively block out noise by getting a better seal around the ear, and provide some amplification. These devices are usually pretty affordable and will work with a variety of cell phone models. They do add a bit of complexity as they are more cumbersome than just carrying a cell phone. Noise Canceling headsets. These headsets don't actually amplifiy but they do actively work to cancel out background noise which interferes with call quality. You'll see a brief demonstration below. Some of these devices are wireless and a bit less cumbersome.A Loud Cell PhoneThe options are somewhat limited and many of these phones aren't the typical full featured phone. However, if your calling needs are basic or you don't want to deal with the extra equipment, these might be perfect for you. The only drawback is that if the phone is louder, it's likely you may disturb others with calls made in public and it will be more difficult to maintain privacy.Amplified Headsets
Amplified headsets are a good option for many. These devices are often preferred over a loud cell phone, not only because they allow more privacy, but because they can be used with a wide variety of full featured, modern cell phones.
When selecting these devices, it's recommended you try them out first before buying. Make sure that the fit is comfortable and can be worn for extended periods of time. Make sure that the sound quality, as well as volume, is sufficient and that the volume control is easily accessible.
Noise Canceling Headsets
Noise canceling headsets can not only move the sound closer to your ear, but actively work to eliminate intruding noise. They work best at eliminating low to mid-range frequency noises versus higher frequency sounds. Quality varies of course, but efficiency should be between 70% and 90%.
Bluetooth/wireless devices offer comfort and freedom of movement but any device selected must be compatible with the cell phone you have; the jack must fit. Of course, if the jack isn't compatible, you can also check into the possibility of an adapter through the cell phone manufacturer.
Be sure the fit is comfortable and the headset can be worn for extended periods of time.
A Loud Cell Phone
Finding a cell phone with louder volume is generally a trial and error process. It really requires you to go to the store, place a few calls, and listen to determine what you think of the volume. Of course, good overall call quality can help make up for lack of volume in some cases. Good reception can be enhanced at home with home base stations and antennas.
If you have personal experience with a phone that offers particularly good call volume please let us know in the poll below!
Certainly, having a good volume control which is easy to operate can make a difference too so that's worth check out before you buy.
There are a several cell phones on the market which are designed specifically for those with mild hearing impairment. These phones however, are designed for simplicity in most cases and may not offer all of the features or sleek design many users want. For others, they may be a perfect solution. See them below.