Hands-free kits

Drivers can now lose their licences for falling foul of the mobile phone laws behind the wheel so a hands-free kit is an in-car essential. Technology is improving all the time with units becoming smaller, batteries lasting longer and sound ever clearer so which is the benchmark now? We tried 12 to find out. Our full test (here) included speakerphones and earpieces too.
 
Winner
Jabra Arrow
Contact: 01784 220172 www.jabra.com
Price: £39.99
When it comes to taking calls behind the wheel and staying legal Jabra is the way to go as it takes a second win in this important category. The Arrow is the successor to our former champion. Easy to use with large buttons, it showed up several more expensive rivals with great sound quality.
 
Commended
SuperTooth Buddy
Contact: 01202 829933 www.kondor.co.uk
Price: £49.99
Drivers who can’t be doing with earpieces should turn to the Buddy which boasts a massive battery life whether talking or on stand by. The compact design means it is hardly noticeable on the sun visor and it works really well with great sound quality and large easy to use controls.
 
Aliph Jawbone PRIME
Contact: 0203 0207 2094 www.jawbone.com
Price: £59.99
Noise Assassin technology sets this elegant earpiece apart from many rivals as it blocks out background noise and the microphone only works with the movement of the jaw so other sounds are no transmitted. It might be small but the controls are easy to use. However, you do pay a premium for that great sound.