No products in the cart.
motorcycle Bluetooth headset
8 Best Motorcycle Bluetooth Headsets/Intercoms 2023 [Guide]
![8 Best Motorcycle Bluetooth Headsets/Intercoms 2022 [Guide]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=NTkxOjg3NA==-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgMTAzMCAxMDMwIiB3aWR0aD0iMTAzMCIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxMDMwIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==)
23
Dec
Dec
Introduction
A motorcycle Bluetooth headset is one of the most important pieces of equipment to have while riding. It’s essential for safety and makes riding much more fun and enjoyable.
With a motorcycle helmet Bluetooth headset, you can make and receive calls, listen to music or radio, get turn-by-turn navigation instructions, and communicate with your pillion or riding companions. All this while keeping your eyes on the road and your hands on the handlebar.
So which is the best motorcycle intercom system to use? We’ve done the research and compiled the best motorcycle Bluetooth headsets below.
Additionally, we cover everything you need to know about motorcycle headsets, including how they work, what you can use them for, and tips on how to pick the best one for your needs.
Our Picks for the Best Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset/Intercom
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  |
| Check Price View Details | |
Best for Off-Road Rides  | LEXIN 2pcs B4FM 10 Riders Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset with Music Sharing |
| Check Price View Details |
Best for Music  | Cardo FRC4P001 - FREECOM 4 Plus Motorcycle 4-Way Bluetooth Communication System Headset |
| Check Price View Details |
Best for Solo or 2-Person Rides  | Cardo Systems Spirit Motorcycle Bluetooth Communication Headset |
| Check Price View Details |
Best with Wired Connection  |
| Check Price View Details | |
Best with Mesh Intercom  | Cardo PTB00001 - PACKTALK Bold Motorcycle Bluetooth Communication System Headset |
| Check Price View Details |
Best Budget  | EJEAS V6 Pro Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset, 2 Riders Intercom |
| Check Price View Details |
Best with Camera  | Sena 10C Pro Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset Camera and Communication System |
| Check Price View Details |
What Can You Use a Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset for?
The main purpose of a motorcycle helmet headset is to make communication easier. It also makes riding safer and even more fun.
Here are the various things you can accomplish with a motorcycle helmet intercom system.
- Communicate with Your Pillion or Riding Group: The most important function of a motorcycle helmet headset is enabling wireless communication with your pillion or riding group. Whether it’s chatting away or pointing out potential hazards, you no longer have to resort to hand signals, shouting, or smashing your helmet.
- Get Navigation Directions: With Motorcycle helmets with intercom, you can also voice navigation directions from Google Maps or any other satellite navigation system delivered right to your ears.
- Respond to Calls Hands-free: Bluetooth motorcycle headsets pair with your phone and allow you to make and respond to phone calls and messages without touching your phone. Motorbike helmets with intercom enhance safety by allowing you to use your phone without taking your hands off your bike.
- Listen to Your Favorite Source of Entertainment: Most motorcycle headsets also function as helmet radios for motorcycles. They have in-built FM radio so you can tune in to your favorite radio station while on the go. They also connect to your phone and allow you to listen to your favorite songs or podcasts.
How Does a Motorcycle Bluetooth Intercom System Work?
A motorcycle intercom system is a small widget designed to fit the side of a motorcycle helmet via a clamp-on or stick-on mount. The microphone goes inside the chin bar while the speaker is outfitted into the helmet lining by the ear.
Bluetooth communication headsets use Bluetooth technology to pair your smartphone and give you access to your phone’s functions and applications. They also connect to other motorcycle headsets via Bluetooth technology.
Communication for motorcycle helmets is also enabled by mesh technology. Motorcycle communication devices designed to serve large groups of riders utilize mesh connectivity to keep the riders connected and enable intercom conferencing.
Reviews of the 8 Best Motorcycle Bluetooth Headsets/Intercom Systems
1. Best Overall: Sena SMH10-11 Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset / Intercom
Our Score
The Sena SMH10-11 is a top-rated motorcycle helmet Bluetooth headset with rave reviews from serious motorcycle riders. It allows you to listen to music, make and receive phone calls, get voice navigation prompts, and have intercom chats with up to 4 riders.
No helmet compatibility issues with the Sena SMH10-11. It comes with a universal microphone kit that includes both a boom mic and a wired mic. It also uses the universal intercom protocol to link to other brands of motorbike headsets.
Quality speakers with noise control deliver amazing sound quality even when riding at high speed. As for battery life, you get 12 hours of talk time on a single charge, and the battery recharges in 2.5 hours.
Build quality is top-notch. The headset withstands bad weather well and comes with a 2-year warranty. The design is well-thought-through. The jog wheel makes it easy to control the headset, and the phone call button is easy to press even with a gloved hand.
Overall, the Sena SMH10-11 is the best motorcycle intercom system hands down. It's highly rated and easy to use, compatible with all helmets and intercom brands. It also delivers excellent value for the money.
Specifications: Headset Weight (60 g/3.01 oz), Talk Time (12 hours), Standby Time (10 days), Charging Time (2.5 hours), Working Distance (Up to 900 m), and Bluetooth (V3.0+ EDR).
Pros
- Thousands of 5-star ratings
- Intuitive jog dial control
- Easy to access and press phone button
- Fits on most types of helmets
- Compatible with all headset brands
- Flexible mic placement
- Quality build with a 2-year warranty
- Great sound and volume control
- A breeze to install and use
Cons
- Some people experience issues with speaker volume for music and podcasts
2. Best for Off-Road Rides: LEXIN 2pcs B4FM 10 Riders Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset with Music Sharing
Our Score
Boasting an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating and being able to withstand temperatures as low as -22°F, the LEXIN B4FM is a great motorcycle headset for riding in extreme weather conditions.
Besides hands-free calls, music, GPS instructions, and FM radio with 6 station presets, you can hold intercom conferences with up to 10 riders. Music sharing is also possible if your passenger also has a B4FM unit.
Thanks to good-quality speakers and noise cancellation, the sound is loud and clear for both voice calls and music. A fully charged battery gives you up to 15 hours of intercom chatting and playing music.
Setup on helmets is effortless. The unit comes with a boom mic for open-face helmets and a button mic for full-face helmets. Headset pairing is universal, so you can pair it with other brand intercoms.
All in all, the LEXIN B4FM is an excellent Bluetooth for helmet for long off-road adventures. The battery lasts long, and the headset can handle harsh weather elements.
Specifications: Headset Weight (1.1 pounds), Talk Time (15 hours), Standby Time (360 hours), Working Distance (2000 meters/1.2 miles), and Bluetooth (5.0).
Pros
- IP67 waterproof and cold resistant
- The sound is loud and clear
- Built-in FM radio with 6 station presets
- Compatible with other brand intercoms
- 10-way conference intercom
- Accepts voice commands
- Simple and easy installation
- Effective noise cancellation
- Share music with your pillion
- Suits open-face and full-face helmets
- Excellent value for money
Cons
- The buttons can be relatively tricky to press with gloves on
3. Best for Music: Cardo FRC4P001 – FREECOM 4 Plus Motorcycle 4-Way Bluetooth Communication System Headset
Our Score
The Cardo FRC4P001 - FREECOM 4 Plus uses 40mm JBL speakers to deliver the best sound experience on motorcycle headsets. You will even enjoy very good bass. Not only can you stream music from your smartphone. The Cardo FRC4P001 also has a built-in FM radio. What's more? Even your pillion rider can listen to your music or radio.
Phone calls, intercom communication, and GPS voice navigation are also loud and clear. It's a 4-way motorbike intercom that allows bike-to-bike conferencing for up to 4 riders. You can make or respond to calls by pressing a button or using voice commands.
Playing music can drain the battery fast, and Cardo has thought of this. You can recharge the battery using a power bank or a 12V charger.
If you're looking for the best motorcycle Bluetooth headset for music, the Cardo FRC4P001 is it. The sound is as good as it gets on motorcycle headsets. And you don't have to worry about compatibility because this Cardo headset works with all brands of intercoms and helmets.
Specifications: Headset Weight (34 g), Talk Time (13 hours), Standby Time (1 week), Charging Time (4 hours), Working Distance (1.2 km), and Bluetooth (V4.1).
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Great noise cancellation
- Pillion riders can listen to music too
- Responds to voice controls
- Conferencing for up to 4 riders
- Has inbuilt FM radio
- Slim and sleek design
- Automatic volume adjustment
- Universal helmet and headset compatibility
- Battery pack and 12V recharging
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- Sometimes fails to respond to voice commands
- You have to purchase the Cardo Half Helmet Kit to use it on a half helmet
4. Best Cardo Headset for Solo or 2-Person Rides: Cardo Systems Spirit Motorcycle Bluetooth Communication Headset
Our Score
An inexpensive 2-way Bluetooth intercom, the Spirit is the best Cardo headset for one or two riders. You can make calls or get GPS directions at the touch of a button or by issuing voice commands.
Although these are budget Cardo headsets, they come equipped with 32mm speakers with very good sound. Phones are clear, and you can also stream music from your phone.
You can use the Spirit with any helmet, and it pairs easily with any brand of motorcycle headset. It utilizes a fast-charging battery that delivers 2 hours of talk time after only 20-minute charging.
Waterproof construction allows it to withstand any weather conditions without damage. You can ride it in the rain or snow without worry.
The Spirit is an excellent budget motorcycle helmet Bluetooth system for solo rides or rider and passenger communication.
Specifications: Headset Weight (35 g), Talk Time (10 hours), Standby Time (10 days), Charging Time (2 hours), Working Distance (400 m/0.25 miles), and Bluetooth (5.2).
Pros
- Inexpensive without sacrificing quality
- Waterproof construction
- Very easy to install and use
- Voice control with phone calls
- Good sound from 32mm speakers
- Automatic volume control
- Universal intercom connectivity
- Fast charging battery
Cons
- Basic two-way intercom system
5. Best Helmet Intercom with Wired Connection: FODSPORTS Motorcycle Bluetooth Intercom Headset
Our Score
One of the best things about the FODSPORTS M1-S Pro is that it has a wired connection. It comes with an audio cable that allows you to chat and listen to music or GPS directions at the same time.
Another great thing about it is that it utilizes Bluetooth 5.0, making the connection quick and stable. Battery life is excellent too. You get up to 12 hours of intercom time and up to 20 hours of phone talk time on one full charge.
Bike-to-bike intercom is possible for up to 8 bikes. Multiple riders can make a call at the same time. Your device reconnects automatically if you go out of range and get back within range.
Thanks to 40mm speakers with noise elimination, the sound quality is pretty good. It's loud and clear for both voice and music. The buttons are easy to access and touch with gloved fingers.
The Bluetooth headset is compatible with other intercom brands. In addition, you get a hard mic and soft mic for open-face or flip-face helmets and full-face helmets.
The construction quality is robust and suitable for off-road use. The motorbike headset can withstand exposure to rain, humidity, cold, heat, and even bumps. For the money, the M1S Pro is among the best value Bluetooth intercom systems for motorcycles.
Specifications: Headset Weight (1.1 pounds), Talk Time (20 hours), Standby Time (300 hours), Charging Time (3 hours), Working Distance (2000 m), and Bluetooth (5.0).
Pros
- Has a wired audio connection
- Glove-friendly control buttons
- Flexible mounting options
- Good battery life
- Intercom and play music/GPS simultaneously
- Easy to install, pair, and use
- Suits all types of helmets
- Rugged and weather-proof
- Pairs with other brand intercoms
- Manual/automatic call answering
- Ambient noise reduction
- Accepts voice commands
Cons
- The mount connection and instruction manual could be better
6. Best with Mesh Intercom: Cardo PTB00001 – PACKTALK Bold Motorcycle Bluetooth Communication System Headset
Our Score
Utilizing mesh connectivity, the Cardo PACKTALK is the best motorcycle communication system for large group rides. Mesh technology provides superior connectivity and range, allowing up to 15 riders to stay connected.
Thanks to mesh technology and noise canceling, communicating with a passenger or group of riders works great. If you ride on twisty roads, any rider that drops out of range automatically reconnects when they return to within range.
JBL speakers coupled with wind-noise reduction ensure crystal clear sound. What's more? Calls, music, FM radio, and intercom. Work in parallel so you can be on the intercom and still listen to music. Your passenger can also listen to music or radio.
The battery life is good too. You can get 10 hours on a full charge. Best of all, you can plug it into a battery pack or 12V charger and still use the unit while it's charging.
To conclude, you can't go wrong with the Cardo PACKTALK for group rides. It's a bit pricey but worth the money, with mesh technology, exceptional audio, and voice control. If you're a hardcore biker, this is a solid investment.
Specifications: Headset Weight (57 g), Talk Time (13 hours), Standby Time (7 days), Charging Time (4 hours), Working Distance (1600 m/1 mile), and Connectivity (Mesh 5.1, Bluetooth 4.1).
Pros
- Connects up to 15 riders
- Backed by a stellar reputation
- Natural voice commands
- Easy to install and connect
- Integrated FM radio
- Long-range connections
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Universal intercomS connectivity
- Music or radio sharing with passenger
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- The range of connection could be better
7. Best Budget: EJEAS V6 Pro Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset, 2 Riders Intercom
Our Score
EJEAS V6 Pro has impressive functionality for a budget motorbike helmet communication system. It's affordable but boasts some of the best features, including an IP65 waterproof rating and Bluetooth 5.1.
It also boasts excellent battery performance. The battery requires 3 hours to charge fully. One full charge provides 18 hours of intercom chatting and up to 25 hours of music.
The EJEAS uses a two-person full-duplex intercom system that allows up to 6 motorcyclists to connect. The host unit controls the other six units, and only two riders can chat at a time.
Advanced noise cancellation technology ensures crystal-clear sound, whether you're making calls, listening to music, or talking with a riding partner.
As for helmet compatibility, the headset fits all types of helmets. You can use it whether you have a full-face, 3/4, flip-up, or modular motorbike helmet.
Boasting an IP65 waterproof and dustproof rating, you can use the EJEAS V6 Pro in any condition. It can withstand temperatures between -10℃ to 50℃.
If you're for a great motorcycle intercom on a tight budget, the EJEAS V6 Pro fits the bill.
Specifications: Headset Weight (7 ounces), Talk Time (18 hours), Standby Time (260 hours), Charging Time (3 hours), Working Distance (Up to 1200 m), and Bluetooth (5.1).
Pros
- Affordable and great value for money
- Dustproof and waterproof
- Withstands harsh temperatures
- Excellent battery life
- Uses DSP noise cancellation
- Robust build quality
- Compatible with all types of helmets
Cons
- You can't talk to all riders at the same time. You have to choose who to communicate with
8. Best Bluetooth with Camera: Sena 10C Pro Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset Camera and Communication System
Our Score
The Sena 10C is the best motorcycle communicator with a camera. It's equipped with a Quad HD camera that allows you to capture 2K/30FPS quality footage of your rides, complete with music and audio. You can use a microSD of up to 64GB and download the captured footage via WiFi.
As a motorcycle intercom system, it allows you to connect with up to four riders over a one-mile range. As you can expect from a Sena Bluetooth headset, the sound quality is good. The headset is easy to mount, and you can adjust settings via an app.
You can't go wrong with this Sena Bluetooth headset if you're looking for a motorbike headset that allows you to capture video of your ride. It has a quality video camera and also works well as a communicator for motorcycle helmets.
Specifications: Headset Weight (3.52 ounces), Talk Time (17 hours), Charging Time (3.5 hours), Working Distance (1.6 km/1.0 mile), and Bluetooth (V4.1).
Pros
- Motorcycle headset with camera
- Universal helmet and headset compatibility
- Connects with up to four riders
- Has a good range of up to 1 mile
- Good sound quality with noise control
- Easy to configure settings via the app
Cons
- Recording video drains the battery fast
- Bluetooth headset with camera doesn't come cheap
How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset/Intercom
There are plenty of Bluetooth communication systems for motorcycles on the market. However, not all headsets have the same capabilities.
The key to identifying the best helmet headset for you is to focus on your needs and preferences.
Here are the crucial factors to keep in mind while selecting a motorbike helmet communication system.
Ease of Use
First off, the best headset for motorcycles should be easy to attach to your helmet.
Some motorcycle communication devices use clamp-on mounting, while others have a snap-on mounting system. The headset should also come off easily when you need to recharge it or attach it to another motorcycle helmet.
Furthermore, pay attention to the size and layout of the control buttons. Do you prefer a spin-and-click jog dial or intuitively set buttons?
Make sure you can easily access and press the buttons with a gloved hand. Even better if the motorcycle helmet communication device accepts voice commands.
Bluetooth Technology
Motorcycle communication headsets utilize Bluetooth technology to connect with each other and also to pair with smartphones. Choose a Bluetooth device for motorcycle helmet that uses at least Bluetooth 4.1.
The newer the version of Bluetooth for motorcycle helmets, the faster and more stable the connection, the better the coverage range, and the better the battery efficiency.
The ultimate best motorcycle Bluetooth headset 2022 would have Bluetooth 5.3, which is the latest Bluetooth version as of now.
Build Quality
It goes without saying that the best motorcycle intercom should stand the test of time. It should have a rugged exterior and weather-resistant construction.
If you plan to ride in extreme conditions, go for a motorcycle helmet intercom that is waterproof, dustproof, and can withstand hot and cold temperatures.
Read user reviews for the in-helmet Bluetooth headphones you’re considering. Doing this will give you a good idea of how the device performs in the real world and whether it lasts.
Working Distance/Range
Bluetooth communication headsets offer a limited range of communication. If you go beyond the set range, you won’t be able to communicate with your riding partners.
A short-range Bluetooth headset for motorcycle helmet is sufficient for a pair of riders that don’t stray too far from each other.
For large groups riding on winding or off-road terrain, mesh technology offers a superior range of up to 5 miles.
Furthermore, mesh connectivity offers the best helmet-to-helmet communication and allows riders to drop in and out of range seamlessly.
Group Connectivity
Group rides require robust motorcycle helmet communication systems that utilize Mesh technology for connectivity.
Unlike Bluetooth, mesh technology allows more than two riders to connect over a wider distance range. Some mesh intercom systems can allow up to 24 riders to connect.
Battery Life
Wireless motorcycle headsets are powered by rechargeable batteries. Some units have longer-lasting batteries than others. Most headsets have an impressive standby time, but the running time is significantly lower.
If you embark on long-distance rides or intend to listen to music as you ride, look for a motorcycle helmet Bluetooth system with 10+ hours of riding time.
Speak and Mic Quality
The best headset for motorcycle should come equipped with a high-quality audio system that delivers crisp and clear sound to your ears.
A headset with noise canceling capability is also great as it filters out road and wind noise.
Beyond this, it’s important to choose the right mic setup for your helmet type. A soft microphone works well with a full-face motorbike helmet.
Do you have an open-face or flip-up helmet? Choose a motorbike intercom with a boom microphone for noise reduction.
Compatibility
Most motorcycle headsets are compatible with all brands of motorbike helmets and headsets. Still, some headsets only work with devices of the same brand.
It’s always smart to confirm that the intercom system you’re considering will work with your helmet and connect with the devices the other members of your riding group are using.
FAQs About Motorcycle Bluetooth Headsets/Intercoms
1. Do You Need A Specific Model for Your Helmet?
In most cases, you don’t need a specific model for your helmet. Most motorcycle headsets have a universal fit on any motorbike helmet.
However, not all intercom systems will fit on any motorbike helmet. Some motorbike helmet brands, such as X-Lite, Schuberth, and Nolan, have helmet-specific intercom models that can only pair with their helmets.
Always check whether your helmet manufacturer requires that you use a specific Bluetooth headset. Additionally, read the headset specs to ensure the intercom is compatible with your helmet.
2. Are All Motorcycle Intercom Systems Compatible?
Most motorcycle intercom systems offer universal connectivity and can link with other intercom systems, regardless of the manufacturer.
However, not all helmet intercom systems are compatible with each other. Some headsets models will only link with other headsets from the same brand. Be sure to check the intercom specs before you buy.
For seamless connectivity and communication, we recommend that all members of a riding group use the same make, model, and brand of wireless Bluetooth motorcycle headphones.
3. What is the Best Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset for Helmet?
The Sena SMH10-11 (number one in our reviews) is the best motorcycle communicator overall.
It’s easy to use and compatible with all helmets and intercom brands. It has great sound and battery life and offers universal helmet and intercom compatibility. On top of this, it’s backed by stellar ratings and a two-year warranty.
Still, all the Bluetooth motorcycle headphones reviewed here have the potential to be the best motorcycle intercom for you.
The best motorcycle comm system for you is the one that’s compatible with other helmet brands and the Intercoms you will be pairing it with. It has good battery life and quality speakers and meets your needs and wants.
4. What is the Difference Between an Intercom and a Bluetooth Headset?
Bluetooth headsets require pairing with other Bluetooth headsets in a sequential manner.
An intercom system allows two-way communication by transmitting audio over a network of devices. Pairing isn’t always necessary.
For example, the Sena mesh intercom allows riders to chat with each other without having to pair their headsets.
Most motorbike communicators function as both Bluetooth headsets and intercom systems. You can pair them with other devices via Bluetooth and also enjoy intercom communication with other riders in your group.
5. Are Budget Motorcycle Headsets/Intercoms Worth It?
The best budget motorcycle communication system is worth it if you’re on a budget, only ride occasionally, are a new rider, or just want to try a Bluetooth headset on a motorbike.
A cheap motorcycle helmet Bluetooth won’t have the best build quality, sound quality, range, or features, but it will deliver adequate performance and offer good value for the money.
You will have to spend more, though, if you want the best build quality, connectivity, sound quality, and battery life.
6. Will I Get a Bluetooth Headset with Built-In Radio?
Most motorcycle Bluetooth Headsets have a built-in FM radio. Even those devices without a radio allow you to stream radio through your smartphone and thus use your headset as a motorcycle helmet radio.
7. Is Mesh Better Than Bluetooth?
For large groups of riders, touring, and off-road motorcycling, Mesh technology is better than Bluetooth technology.
First of all, it allows large groups of riders (up to 24) to stay connected.
Mesh connectivity also leverages the headset units to extend the range of coverage.
Furthermore, reconnection is a breeze. If any rider drops out of connection, they can seamlessly rejoin the group mesh network when they return to within range.
8. Which is Better, Cardo or Sena?
Cardo and Sena are the two undisputed leaders in motorcycle communication devices. Both have a solid reputation for producing top-of-the-line motorbike headsets with brilliant functionality.
If you want to invest in the best Bluetooth headset for motorcycle helmet, you will have to go with either Sena or Cardo. Your specific needs and requirements will dictate whether a Sena or Cardo Bluetooth headset will serve you better.
9. Do Cardo Intercom Systems Work with Sena?
Both Cardo and Sena use the universal intercom protocol. This means that they are compatible with each other as well as with other brands of Bluetooth communication headsets.
Cardo intercom systems work with Sena Bluetooth headsets as well as intercom systems from other brands.
Conclusion
Motorcycle helmet communication headsets are not just essential for safety. They can also make your riding experience more convenient and fun.
Our roundup of the best motorcycle Bluetooth headsets features intercoms for different types of riders.
Have in mind your riding situation, needs, and wants, and you will select the best motorcycle communication system for your needs.
