When it comes to top-tier Bluetooth headsets for professional and personal use, Plantronics (now Poly) has consistently delivered quality. Two of its standout models—the Voyager 5200 and the Voyager Legend—have captured the attention of users seeking excellent call clarity and hands-free convenience. But which one offers better call quality? This comparison dives deep into both headsets to determine the superior choice in terms of voice clarity and noise management.
Design and Comfort
Both the Voyager 5200 and Legend feature the signature over-the-ear design with a boom microphone, ensuring stability and comfort throughout the day. However, the Voyager 5200 has a slightly more modern and sleek build. It’s lighter and uses updated materials that enhance long-term comfort for users who wear their headset for extended periods.
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The Legend, while still comfortable, may feel bulkier compared to the 5200, especially after several hours of use. That said, both gadgets are designed with ergonomics in mind, making them suitable for users constantly on the move or on long conference calls.
Microphone and Noise Cancellation
This is where the battle becomes most interesting. Call quality largely depends on the effectiveness of the microphone and its ability to cancel background noise.
- Voyager 5200: Features four adaptive microphones with WindSmart technology. This means it actively analyzes wind direction and adjusts the audio accordingly, blocking out not just wind but also traffic and crowd noise.
- Voyager Legend: Comes with triple-mic technology and DSP (Digital Signal Processing) to reduce ambient sounds. While decent in quiet or moderately noisy environments, it can sometimes struggle in extremely loud settings.
Verdict: The Voyager 5200 edges ahead with its advanced microphone array and wind-blocking technology. It’s particularly good for users who take calls outdoors or in environments with unpredictable noise.
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Connectivity and Voice Control
Both headsets support Bluetooth connectivity and multipoint technology, allowing users to connect to more than one device at a time. The Voyager 5200 includes Bluetooth 4.1, offering improved range and faster pairing compared to the Legend’s older Bluetooth 3.0.
When it comes to voice control, both headsets support voice commands like answering, rejecting, or redialing calls. However, the 5200 provides more accurate recognition in noisy areas due to its advanced sensors and improved microphone input.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is crucial for professionals heavily relying on Bluetooth headsets. Here’s how they compare:
- Voyager 5200: Offers up to 7 hours of talk time and 9 days on standby. Quick charging is supported, and optional charging cases extend usability significantly.
- Voyager Legend: Provides about 7 hours of talk time as well but can go up to 11 days on standby. It uses a proprietary magnetic charger, which some users find inconvenient compared to standard options.
Although similar in battery longevity, the 5200 has a minor advantage due to its support for modern charging accessories and optional cases that increase portability.
Final Thoughts – Which Has the Best Call Quality?
While both headsets are excellent choices, the Plantronics Voyager 5200 clearly shines when it comes to premium call quality. Its updated microphone array, superb noise cancelation features, and advanced Bluetooth compatibility make it a leading choice for professionals who need crystal-clear communication, especially in outdoor or unpredictable settings.
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The Voyager Legend is still a reliable, budget-friendly alternative, especially for those working in quieter environments. However, if superior voice quality is your top priority, the Voyager 5200 is your winner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Q: Is the Voyager 5200 better than the Legend for outdoor use?
A: Yes, the 5200’s WindSmart technology excels in minimizing wind and traffic noise, making it ideal for outdoor use. -
Q: Can both models connect to multiple devices at once?
A: Yes, both support multipoint technology and can be simultaneously connected to two devices. -
Q: Are these headsets compatible with voice assistants?
A: Yes, both devices support voice commands and can integrate with services like Siri, Google Assistant, and Cortana. -
Q: Which headset has a longer battery life?
A: Both offer similar talk time (about 7 hours), but the Legend has a slightly longer standby time, though it lacks modern fast-charging features. -
Q: Is the difference in call quality noticeable to other callers?
A: Yes, especially in noisy environments. The Voyager 5200 delivers clearer audio and better background noise suppression, making it noticeable on both ends of the call.
