Choosing the right headphones for calls involves considering microphone quality, which directly impacts communication clarity. Two popular options are the Audio-Technica ATH-M50XBT2 and the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2. This article compares their microphone performance to help you make an informed decision.

Overview of the Headphones

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50XBT2 are wireless headphones known for their superior sound quality and durability. They are designed primarily for music but also serve well for calls. The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 are tailored for productivity, featuring active noise cancellation and a focus on communication features, including microphone quality.

Microphone Technology

The microphone quality depends on the built-in technology and noise-canceling capabilities. The ATH-M50XBT2 uses a standard mic that captures voice clearly in quiet environments but may struggle with background noise. The Surface Headphones 2 incorporate beamforming microphones and active noise cancellation designed to improve voice clarity during calls, even in noisy settings.

Performance in Real-World Tests

In practical tests, the Surface Headphones 2 generally outperform the ATH-M50XBT2 in microphone clarity. Users report that the Surface headphones' microphones effectively reduce ambient noise, making voices sound more natural and intelligible. The ATH-M50XBT2's microphone performs well indoors but can pick up more background noise outdoors or in busy environments.

Additional Features Impacting Microphone Quality

  • Noise Cancellation: The Surface Headphones 2’s active noise cancellation enhances microphone performance by reducing environmental noise.
  • Microphone Array: Beamforming technology in Surface headphones focuses on your voice, improving clarity.
  • Connectivity: Both headphones use Bluetooth 5.0, but the Surface Headphones 2 include multipoint pairing, which can be beneficial during calls.

Conclusion

For call quality, the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 generally offer superior microphone performance due to advanced noise-canceling and beamforming technology. The ATH-M50XBT2 are suitable for calls in quiet environments but may not perform as well in noisy settings. Your choice should depend on your typical usage environment and priorities for sound quality versus communication clarity.