Bluetooth headsets are the way to go for anyone spending a lot of time chatting on a mobile. We look at four top contenders.

It's little wonder that Bluetooth headsets have surged in popularity in the last couple of years. Though the early models suffered from being too bulky, constantly evolving and shrinking technology means that many of the models currently available don't make the wearer look like an android.

Dropping prices mean that Bluetooth devices have all but killed in-car installations, as they provide additional flexibility not offered by dedicated setups.

Many models now incorporate noise cancelling technology that helps to screen out ambient chatter. It works effectively, but there is one small drawback: aside from being more expensive, noise cancelling devices have to include some complicated processing capabilities so they tend to wear through batteries more quickly than conventional headsets. If you don't picture yourself holding conversations in busy areas like train stations, it's recommended to avoid noise cancelling models to boost talk time.

You can generally expect around five hours of conversation off a single charge, which should see most users through several days' use.

The models reviewed here represent a fair spread of what's currently available, and they all have slightly different target markets. For example, the Plantronics Discovery 640 would be fantastic for a traveller as it includes several different charging options that would keep a road warrior up and running.

Similarly, the Sony Ericsson HBH-IV835 would be perfect for anybody looking to hold conversations in busy areas as it features advanced noise cancelling technology, albeit at the expense of battery life. Casual users would be at home with the Jabra BT160, as it is inexpensive, simple to operate, and features a customisable skin.

Jabra BT160 Jabra BT160

The Jabra BT-160 is a great no-fuss Bluetooth headset. Sure, it may not have all bells and whistles of more expensive models, but it ships with 33 replaceable covers and works well.

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Plantronics Discovery 640 Plantronics Discovery 640

The Plantronics Discovery 640 is a great Bluetooth headset for a corporate user that travels frequently, as it comes with myriad charging options and a vibrating pocket holster.

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Samsung WEP200 Samsung WEP200

The WEP200 is a fantastic Bluetooth headset that offers great sound, and easy reach art facility, and reasonable battery life.

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Sony Ericsson HBH-IV835 Sony Ericsson HBH-IV835

A noise cancelling feature makes this an excellent Bluetooth headset if you talk frequently in busy areas, but remember to keep an eye on the battery life.

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