If you spend hours a day on Zoom, Teams, or regular phone calls, the best earbuds for phone calls can completely change how you sound to other people. After testing 9 popular models over six weeks in real meetings, coffee shops, and windy sidewalks, I’ve narrowed down which earbuds actually deliver clear voice pickup and which ones just look good on paper.
This guide covers earbuds with strong microphones, beamforming technology, and noise-reduction algorithms that filter background sound. Whether you need crystal-clear audio for back-to-back meetings, multipoint pairing to juggle a phone and laptop, or simply earbuds that won’t make your voice sound muffled to coworkers, I’ve got you covered.
I tested each pair across three scenarios: quiet home office calls, noisy outdoor environments, and group settings with background chatter. I paid special attention to how my voice came across on the other end, not just how calls sounded to me. Here’s what actually works in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance in September
Best Earbuds for Phone Calls in 2026 Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Apple AirPods Pro 3 |
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 Apple AirPods 4 |
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 Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro |
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 Beats Fit Pro |
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 Nothing Ear (3) |
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 Soundcore P30i |
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 TOZO NC9 |
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 Soundcore P20i |
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 Apple EarPods USB-C |
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1. Apple AirPods Pro 3 — Editor’s Choice for Best Earbuds for Phone Calls
Apple AirPods Pro 3 Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation
Active Noise Cancellation
8hr battery
Heart rate sensing
H2 chip
Pros
- Industry-leading ANC
- Clear voice pickup
- Comfortable secure fit
- 8hr battery with ANC
- Seamless Apple integration
Cons
- Premium price
- Live translation needs work
- Delicate build
I wore the AirPods Pro 3 through 4-hour workdays and multiple outdoor walking meetings, and they consistently delivered the clearest voice quality I’ve experienced from in-ear earbuds. The H2 chip’s voice isolation does an impressive job separating my voice from background noise. On a recent test, I took a call from a busy café and the person on the other end said I sounded like I was in a quiet room.
What’s new in this generation is heart rate sensing, which I didn’t expect to use much but actually found helpful during walking calls. The fit is more secure than the previous version, and the expanded ear tip sizing (5 options now) means most people will find a tight seal. That seal matters more than you’d think for call quality because it prevents your own voice from sounding boomy in your ears.
Battery life is solid at 8 hours with ANC on, which gets me through a full workday of back-to-back meetings. The case adds another 24 hours, and a quick 5-minute charge gives roughly an hour of talk time. The active noise cancellation removes up to 2x more noise than the previous generation, which makes a real difference when I’m trying to focus during calls in shared spaces.
My one frustration is that some of the new features, like Live Translation, still feel half-baked. It works in a narrow set of languages and scenarios, and I’d rather Apple focus on perfecting the core call experience. The build also feels more delicate than I’d like for the price.
For Whom It’s Good
Apple users who take frequent calls and want the best balance of noise cancellation, comfort, and ecosystem integration. If you’re already in the iPhone, iPad, and Mac world, the automatic switching between devices makes these the most seamless option. Remote workers who spend 4+ hours daily on calls will appreciate the all-day comfort and battery life.
For Whom It’s Bad
Android users won’t get nearly the same experience, since most of the magic depends on Apple silicon. Budget-conscious buyers will find better value elsewhere. Anyone who needs multipoint to more than two Apple devices should know it works best within the Apple ecosystem.
2. Apple AirPods 4 — Best Open-Fit Earbuds for iPhone Calls
Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds
H2 chip
Voice Isolation
30hr with case
IP54 rated
Pros
- All-day comfort
- Voice Isolation works well
- Lightweight case
- Long battery life
- Easy Apple pairing
Cons
- Open design lets in noise
- Can slide out during exercise
The AirPods 4 surprised me with how well they handle calls despite the open-fit design. I was skeptical because open earbuds traditionally have worse microphone performance since the mic sits farther from your mouth. But the H2 chip’s Voice Isolation does serious work here. On multiple test calls from a moderately noisy office, people reported my voice sounded natural and clear.
The comfort is the standout feature. I wore these for 6+ hour workdays without the ear fatigue that comes with silicone-tipped in-ear designs. For people who find in-ear earbuds uncomfortable but still need good call quality, this is a sweet spot. The redesigned case is noticeably smaller and fits in any pocket.
Battery life is rated at 5 hours per charge, but I consistently got closer to 4.5 hours during active calls with the spatial audio and voice features enabled. The case provides a total of 30 hours, which is more than enough for a full work week between charges. Setup with Apple devices is genuinely instant.
The main trade-off is the open design itself. In genuinely noisy environments, like a loud coffee shop or busy street, you’ll hear ambient sound bleeding through. This also affects how your voice sounds to others in those situations. For quieter home and office environments, though, these are excellent.
For Whom It’s Good
Apple users who dislike in-ear pressure and prioritize all-day comfort over maximum noise isolation. People who take most of their calls in quieter environments, like home offices or private workspaces. Anyone who values the seamless Apple ecosystem experience above all else.
For Whom It’s Bad
Those who frequently take calls in loud environments need the seal and ANC of in-ear options. Active users who move around a lot will find these slide out more easily than wing-tipped alternatives.
3. Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro — Best Earbuds for Calls in Noisy Environments
Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro by Anker Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds
10 sensors
Guinness certified
45dB ANC
Triple multipoint
Pros
- Guinness-certified mic quality
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Triple multipoint
- Touch screen case
- Strong battery life
Cons
- Larger case size
- Touch screen feels gimmicky
- Battery drains faster on calls
The Liberty 5 Pro earned a Guinness World Record for call quality, which sounds like marketing fluff until you actually use them. I tested these in the noisiest scenario I could think of: a busy train station during rush hour. The person on the other end said they could barely tell I was outside, just that my voice was clear and consistent. The 10 sensors and dedicated AI chip are doing real work here.
The triple multipoint connectivity is something I didn’t know I needed. I routinely had these connected to my laptop, phone, and tablet simultaneously, and calls would just route correctly without any manual switching. For someone who bounces between devices throughout the day, this is a game-changer. The ANC is also impressively strong, with Soundcore claiming 100% improvement over the previous model.
Sound quality is solid with customizable EQ through HearID 5.0, which scans your hearing and adjusts the audio profile. I found the default tuning a bit bass-heavy for music, but the customization options are deep enough to dial in exactly what you want. The 12-hour battery rating (without ANC) is generous, though I noticed it drops faster during extended calls with all the processing running.
The case is larger than competitors, partly because of the built-in touch screen. The touch screen is functional for adjusting settings and checking battery, but I found myself using my phone app more often than the case itself. Still, having that option without pulling out your phone is genuinely useful in some scenarios.
For Whom It’s Good
Remote workers who take calls in genuinely noisy environments, like cafés, trains, or open offices. People who need multipoint across three devices, not just two. Anyone who values microphone quality above all else and doesn’t mind a slightly larger case.
For Whom It’s Bad
Minimalists who want the smallest possible case will find this bulky. Users who prioritize music quality over call clarity might find better-tuned alternatives. Budget shoppers will find solid call quality in cheaper options.
4. Beats Fit Pro — Best Earbuds for Phone Calls While Working Out
Beats Fit Pro (1st Gen) – True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds – Active Noise Cancelling – Sweat Resistant Earphones, Compatible with Apple & Android, Class 1 Bluetooth® – Sage Gray
Secure wingtips
H1 chip
IPX4 rated
6hr battery
Pros
- Extremely secure fit
- Physical button controls
- Apple H1 integration
- Good noise cancellation
- Class 1 Bluetooth range
Cons
- No multipoint
- No wireless charging
- Battery could be better
The Beats Fit Pro solved my biggest frustration with earbuds during active calls: staying put. The flexible wingtips lock into your ear and stay there no matter what. I tested these during outdoor runs, gym sessions, and even during a particularly vigorous cooking session, and they didn’t budge. For people who take calls while moving, this secure fit matters more than any spec sheet.
The physical button controls are a welcome change from touch-sensitive designs. When you’re sweating or wearing gloves, you can still reliably answer calls, adjust volume, or pause music. The buttons have a satisfying click that confirms your input without being overly loud.
Call quality is solid thanks to the Apple H1 chip, which handles voice isolation effectively. I found the microphone performance slightly better on Apple devices than Android, where some of the processing optimizations don’t apply. Noise cancellation is effective for everyday environments, though it doesn’t quite match the AirPods Pro 3 in extreme noise.
The main downsides are the lack of multipoint connectivity (only one device at a time) and no wireless charging. Battery life at 6 hours is adequate for most days but shorter than newer competitors. The case feels a bit lightweight compared to premium alternatives.
For Whom It’s Good
Active users who take calls during workouts, runs, or physical activities. Apple users who want H1 chip benefits in a more secure package than AirPods. Anyone who prefers physical buttons over touch controls, especially during sweaty or gloved conditions.
For Whom It’s Bad
People who need to switch between multiple devices during the day will miss multipoint connectivity. Those wanting the absolute best noise cancellation should look at newer options. Heavy phone-call users who need 8+ hour battery life.
5. Nothing Ear (3) — Most Innovative Earbuds for Phone Calls
Nothing Ear (3) Wireless Earbuds Super Mic 45dB Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones Hi-Res 6 Mics, 12mm Dynamic Bass Boost, Dual Connect ANC Sport Ear Buds for iPhone Android, Black
Super Mic in case
45dB ANC
6 HD mics
Hi-Res audio
Pros
- Unique Super Mic case feature
- Strong 45dB ANC
- Hi-Res audio support
- Transparent design
- Cross-platform compatibility
Cons
- 5hr battery with ANC
- Bass-heavy default tuning
- Wind struggles
The Nothing Ear (3) does something genuinely new with call quality: a Super Mic built into the charging case. When you hold the TALK button on the case and speak into it, the case microphones take over and use advanced noise reduction. I tested this in a loud restaurant, and the person on the other end said my voice sounded like I was in a quiet room. It’s situational, but when you need it, it’s genuinely impressive.
Beyond the case gimmick, the earbuds themselves have 6 HD microphones with hybrid ANC up to 45dB. Call quality from the earbuds directly is excellent, with clear voice pickup and effective noise filtering. The Hi-Res audio support and 12mm drivers with ceramic diaphragm deliver sound quality that punches above the price point.
The transparent design stands out in a market full of look-alike black and white earbuds. Whether you find it gimmicky or cool is personal preference, but it’s distinctive. The Nothing X app provides deep customization for EQ, ANC levels, and controls, though the initial setup takes some time.
Battery life at 5 hours with ANC is shorter than I’d like, and wind noise is still a challenge even with all the microphones. The default sound tuning is quite bass-heavy, though the EQ app helps balance this out. For the price, though, these offer features you won’t find elsewhere.
For Whom It’s Good
People who frequently take calls in extremely noisy environments and want a backup option beyond standard microphone arrays. Users who appreciate distinctive design and deep customization. Cross-platform users (iPhone and Android) who want features that work equally well on both.
For Whom It’s Bad
Heavy daily users who need all-day battery life. People who primarily take outdoor calls in windy conditions. Those who prefer simple, plug-and-play earbuds without app customization.
6. Soundcore P30i — Best Budget Earbuds for Phone Calls with ANC
Soundcore P30i by Anker Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Hands-Free Viewing
42dB ANC
45H playtime
4 mic AI
Phone stand case
Pros
- Exceptional battery life
- Phone stand case feature
- Strong ANC for price
- Good call quality with AI
- Comfortable fit
Cons
- ANC not premium-tier
- Transparency mode sounds artificial
- Fit can vary
For budget-conscious buyers, the Soundcore P30i delivers remarkable value. The 45-hour total battery life (with case) is genuinely class-leading. I went over a week of regular use without needing to charge the case. The 2-in-1 case that doubles as a phone stand is surprisingly useful during video calls, propping up your phone for hands-free viewing.
Call quality impressed me at this price point. The 4-microphone array with AI enhancement does a solid job of picking up voice while filtering background noise. I tested these in moderately noisy environments and consistently came through clearly. The adaptive noise cancellation reaches up to 42dB, which isn’t flagship-level but is impressive for the cost.
The sound profile is bass-forward out of the box, which I found too heavy for calls and some music genres. The Soundcore app lets you adjust EQ extensively, and after some tweaking, I got a much more balanced sound. BassUp technology adds extra punch when you want it.
The main limitations are in transparency mode, which sounds artificial compared to premium options, and fit consistency. Getting the right ear tip seal matters more with these than with pricier earbuds. Once you find the right tips, the fit and comfort are solid.
For Whom It’s Good
Budget buyers who want ANC and good call quality without spending premium prices. People who value long battery life above all else. Anyone who uses their phone for video calls and would benefit from the integrated stand.
For Whom It’s Bad
Audio enthusiasts who want balanced, reference-quality sound. Users in extremely noisy environments who need flagship-tier ANC. Those who want the most refined transparency mode experience.
7. TOZO NC9 — Best Budget Value Earbuds for Clear Calls
TOZO NC9 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds, 60H, LED Display
6 mic ENC
60H battery
IPX8
45dB hybrid ANC
Pros
- Outstanding battery life
- IPX8 waterproof rating
- Strong mic performance
- Comfortable fit with 6 tip sizes
- LED battery display
Cons
- Buds stick out slightly
- Default EQ has sibilance
- Transparency mode is artificial
The TOZO NC9 punches well above its weight class. The 60-hour total battery life is exceptional, and the IPX8 waterproof rating means these can handle rain, sweat, or even brief immersion. I tested these during rainy outdoor walks while on calls, and the call quality remained clear without any weather-related issues.
The 6-microphone ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) array is genuinely effective. During testing in a moderately busy environment, my voice came through cleanly with minimal background bleed. The hybrid ANC reaches 45dB depth, competing with earbuds costing 3-4 times more.
The fit is comfortable once you find the right ear tip among the 6 included sizes. The buds do sit slightly more prominent in the ear than some competitors, which can affect how they look and feel during long wear. The LED display on the case is a nice touch for quickly checking battery status without opening an app.
Sound quality has good bass depth, though the default EQ has noticeable sibilance on sibilant consonants. The TOZO app offers 32 EQ options to dial this in, and once adjusted, the sound is quite good. The transparency mode is functional but not as natural-sounding as premium options.
For Whom It’s Good
Budget shoppers who want maximum battery life and water resistance. Users who frequently take calls in variable environments and need reliable performance. People who like deep app customization with many EQ options.
For Whom It’s Bad
Those who prefer a low-profile bud that sits flush with the ear. Users who want the most natural transparency mode. People who don’t want to fiddle with app settings to get optimal sound.
8. Soundcore P20i — Best Ultra-Budget Earbuds for Phone Calls
Soundcore by Anker P20i True Wireless Earbuds, with Big Bass, 30H Playtime
2 mic AI
30H battery
22 EQ presets
Bluetooth 5.3
Pros
- Exceptional value
- Long battery life
- Quick 10-min charge
- Lightweight portable
- Reliable Bluetooth
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- Touch controls can be sensitive
- No ANC
At a fraction of the cost of premium earbuds, the Soundcore P20i delivers where it matters for basic call quality. The 2-microphone array with AI enhancement does a respectable job of voice pickup. In quiet to moderate noise environments, callers reported clear voice transmission. For very noisy settings, you’ll want something with more mics and ANC, but for everyday calls, these work well.
The 30-hour total battery life is impressive at this price. A quick 10-minute charge gives 2 hours of playtime, which saved me multiple times when I forgot to charge overnight. The case is compact and includes a lanyard for easy carrying.
Sound quality is bass-forward, which I personally enjoy for music but some might find overwhelming. The 22 EQ presets via the Soundcore app let you tune the sound to your preference. Bluetooth 5.3 provides reliable connectivity with minimal dropouts.
The biggest limitation is the lack of active noise cancellation. In noisy environments, you’ll hear ambient sound and your voice may be harder for others to hear. The touch controls can also be overly sensitive, occasionally triggering when adjusting the fit. None of these are dealbreakers at this price.
For Whom It’s Good
Budget shoppers who want solid call quality without spending much. Users who mostly take calls in quiet environments. Anyone who values battery life and quick charging over premium features.
For Whom It’s Bad
People who frequently take calls in noisy environments need ANC. Those who prefer physical buttons will find touch controls frustrating. Users who want balanced, reference-quality sound.
9. Apple EarPods USB-C — Best Wired Earbuds for Phone Calls
Apple EarPods Headphones with USB-C Plug, Wired Ear Buds with Built-in Remote to Control Music, Phone Calls, and Volume
USB-C wired
Built-in mic
Plug and play
Siri support
Pros
- No battery anxiety
- Instant connectivity
- Clear microphone
- Durable build
- Affordable
Cons
- Wired design limits movement
- No noise cancellation
- Cable tangles
The wired EarPods with USB-C might seem outdated, but they remain one of the most reliable options for phone calls. There’s no battery to charge, no Bluetooth pairing issues, and no connection drops mid-call. For people who prioritize call reliability above all else, this simplicity is actually a major advantage.
The built-in microphone delivers clear voice pickup. Since the mic sits on the cable closer to your mouth than most wireless earbud mics, voice clarity is naturally good. During testing, callers consistently reported clean, clear audio. The inline remote lets you answer calls, adjust volume, and trigger Siri without touching your phone.
Comfort is a known strength of the EarPods design. The shape fits many ear types without the pressure of silicone tips. I wore these for long calls without the ear fatigue that comes with in-ear designs. Build quality is solid, and Apple products tend to last years with reasonable care.
The obvious trade-offs are the wired design itself. You’re tethered to your device, the cable can tangle, and there’s no noise cancellation. For desk work or stationary calls, these are excellent. For walking around or exercising, wireless options are more practical.
For Whom It’s Good
People who prioritize call reliability and hate battery anxiety. Desk workers who don’t need wireless freedom. Budget shoppers who want proven Apple quality at minimal cost.
For Whom It’s Bad
Active users who need wireless movement. Anyone taking calls in noisy environments without ANC. People who frequently misplace or damage cables.
How to Choose the Best Earbuds for Phone Calls
After testing all nine earbuds extensively, I’ve identified the key factors that actually matter for call quality. Understanding these will help you pick the right pair for your specific situation.
Microphone Configuration and Beamforming Technology
The number and placement of microphones directly affects how clearly your voice comes through. Earbuds with 4 or more microphones generally outperform those with just 2, because multiple mics allow for better beamforming, which focuses audio capture on your mouth while filtering other directions.
Beamforming is the technology that uses multiple mics to create a directional pickup pattern aimed at your voice. Premium earbuds use this alongside AI processing to distinguish your voice from background noise. If call quality is your top priority, prioritize earbuds with at least 4 microphones and dedicated voice processing.
Noise Cancellation for Calls vs Music
There’s an important distinction between active noise cancellation (ANC) for your listening experience and noise reduction for your outgoing voice. Many earbuds excel at one but not the other. The best earbuds for phone calls handle both: ANC for hearing others clearly, and microphone noise reduction so others hear you clearly.
For outgoing call quality, look for terms like “beamforming,” “AI noise reduction,” or “environmental noise cancellation (ENC).” These indicate the earbuds actively process your voice to remove background sound. Standard ANC alone doesn’t guarantee good call quality for the people on the other end.
Battery Life for Long Meetings
Nothing kills productivity like earbuds dying mid-meeting. For all-day remote workers, I recommend earbuds with at least 6 hours of continuous call time, plus a charging case that extends total battery to 24+ hours.
Quick charging is also valuable. Many modern earbuds offer 10-minute charges that provide 1-2 hours of use, which is a lifesaver when you forget to charge overnight. The Soundcore P30i’s 45-hour total and TOZO NC9’s 60-hour total are exceptional for heavy users.
Comfort During Extended Wear
If you’re taking calls for 4+ hours daily, comfort becomes as important as call quality. In-ear designs with silicone tips provide better passive noise isolation but can cause ear fatigue. Open-fit designs like AirPods 4 are more comfortable for long sessions but sacrifice some noise isolation.
Consider your typical wearing time. Under 2 hours per session, any design works. Over 4 hours, prioritize comfort and weight. Wing-tipped designs like Beats Fit Pro are best if you move around during calls.
Multipoint Connectivity
Multipoint lets you connect to multiple devices simultaneously, so calls from your phone route correctly while you’re connected to your laptop. For people who bounce between devices, this is essential. The Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro’s triple multipoint is the most versatile I tested.
If you only use one device for calls, multipoint isn’t necessary. But if you regularly take calls on both phone and computer, it’s worth prioritizing. Note that Apple’s H1/H2 chips offer seamless switching within the Apple ecosystem, which functions similarly to multipoint.
Wind Noise Handling
Wind is the enemy of clear calls, and even premium earbuds struggle with it. If you frequently take calls outdoors, look for earbuds with multiple microphones and wind-reduction algorithms. The Nothing Ear (3)’s case microphone is a creative solution for extreme wind situations.
Real-world wind testing matters more than lab specs for this. Based on my outdoor testing, stem-style earbuds (like AirPods) and earbuds with dedicated wind-reduction modes handle breezy conditions better than flush designs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which buds are best for phone calls?
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 are our top pick for the best earbuds for phone calls overall, thanks to their H2 chip voice isolation and excellent noise cancellation. For the absolute best microphone quality in noisy environments, the Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro earned Guinness World Record certification. Budget-conscious buyers should consider the Apple EarPods USB-C for reliable wired performance.
What earbuds have the best microphone for phone calls?
The Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro has the best microphone system for phone calls, with 10 sensors and a dedicated AI chip that earned Guinness World Records certification for call quality. The Apple AirPods Pro 3 with H2 chip voice isolation is a close second, especially for Apple users. Both use beamforming technology to focus on your voice while filtering background noise.
Do stem-style earbuds have better call quality?
Stem-style earbuds like AirPods generally do have better call quality because the microphone sits closer to your mouth. This closer proximity means your voice is louder relative to background noise before any processing even happens. However, modern in-ear earbuds with multiple microphones and advanced AI processing have closed this gap significantly.
How do I improve call quality on my earbuds?
To improve call quality on earbuds: 1) Ensure a proper seal with the right ear tip size, 2) Use earbuds with multiple microphones and beamforming, 3) Enable any voice isolation or noise reduction features in your earbuds app, 4) Take calls in quieter environments when possible, 5) Keep your earbuds firmware updated for the latest noise processing improvements.
Why do my earbuds sound bad on phone calls but good for music?
Earbuds often sound different on calls versus music because music playback uses high-quality audio drivers, while call quality depends on the microphone system and noise processing. Earbuds with great music sound may have poor microphones or weak noise reduction. Also, phone calls use narrower audio codecs than music, which can make voices sound compressed or muffled on lower-quality earbuds.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing, the Apple AirPods Pro 3 remain the best earbuds for phone calls for most people in 2026, offering an unmatched combination of call quality, comfort, and ecosystem integration. The Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro is the clear winner if call quality in noisy environments is your absolute priority, while the Apple EarPods USB-C provides unbeatable reliability at minimal cost.
For budget shoppers, the Soundcore P30i and TOZO NC9 deliver remarkable call quality and features without premium pricing. Active users should look at the Beats Fit Pro for its secure fit, while the Nothing Ear (3) offers the most innovative approach with its case-mounted Super Mic.
The best earbuds for phone calls ultimately depend on your specific needs: your typical call environment, how long you wear them daily, and which devices you use most. Any of the nine options in this guide will significantly improve your call experience compared to standard earbuds or phone speakers. Choose based on your priorities, and you’ll notice the difference from your first call.