Type:
Microphone Built-in
Product type:
Headset
Design:
Over-the-ear
Color:
Black
Weight:
0.5 oz
Sound output mode:
Mono
Service / Support:
2 years Limited warranty
CNET editors' review
Reviewed by:
Nicole Lee
Edited by:
Kent German
Reviewed on 7/27/06
BlueAnt Wireless isn't really well known in the United States, mostly because it's an Australian company that has only recently entered the U.S. market. Down under, however, the company is known for its wide range of Bluetooth-enabled devices. One such device is the BlueAnt Wireless X3 micro headset, a cute little headset that comes in black, white, and most recently, pink. You can get them for $69.99 each.
One of the primary attractions of the X3 micro is its design. While it isn't as small as the Nokia BH-800 or the Jabra JX10, it's quite compact and lightweight (2 by 1 by 0.5 inches). It's also sleek and cute, and we like the sporty color combinations (the black and white versions have blue accents, while the pink has white accents). On the front of the headset is a round multifunction button surrounded by the volume controls (volume decrease is on top while volume increase is below). Surrounding the controls is an indicator light that flashes when the headset is powered on.
On the back of the headset is an earbud that rests in the ear canal for a more secure fit. The headset comes with an optional ear hook, which you can adjust to fit over either ear, and removable foam earbud covers for comfort. If you choose to wear the X3 micro without the ear hook, a removable soft-gel earbud cover provides extra comfort and security. Even without the earbud covers, however, we found the size of the earbud to be a little larger than the ones we're used to, so it may feel a little uncomfortable for those with smaller ears.
We like that the X3 micro headset comes with a nifty variety of charging options; you can charge it with your PC via a flexible USB charger, the included AC adapter, or the in-car charger. It also comes with a neck strap so that you don't have to put it in your ear all the time. Unlike the neck strap on the BH-800, we actually like this one because it fits on the neck strap securely.
We tested the BlueAnt Wireless X3 micro with the T-Mobile Sidekick 3 and were able to pair the headset without a problem. Call quality was exceptional without having to turn up the volume all the way. Callers did report a slight echo during calls, but it wasn't too bad. We were impressed overall with the sound quality of the headset. You can answer and end calls with the X3 micro, of course, but you can also reject calls, redial, voice dial, mute calls, and switch calls between the phone and the headset. You can pair the headset with up to three different phones and switch connections between them. Rated talk time for the X3 micro is seven hours, while the standby time is seven days.
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