Best Motorcycle Headphones and Intercoms
Are you in the market for motorcycle headphones, but have no idea what ones to buy? In this buyer’s guide we will share the best motorcycle headphones across 2 different price categories. This guide will save you time because you won’t have to the legwork of working out which options represent the best value for money. Also you can buy the headphones that are within your price range.
Budget |
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FreedConn T-COMVB |
4.8/5.0 |
1.6 ounces |
10 hour battery life |
Good range, solid build, and good value for money. |
Check Amazon |
Best Value |
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Sena SMH10-10 |
4.8/5.0 |
3.01 ounces |
12 hour battery life |
Compatibility with other intercoms & good value for money. |
Check Amazon |
Top Pick |
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Cardo FRC20102 |
4.5/5.0 |
28.8 ounces |
13 hour battery life |
HD 40mm speakers, bluetooth 4.1, and 13 hour battery life. |
Check Amazon |
To help you figure out how to buy motorcycle headphones we have created a buying considerations section. Here you can learn about the factors that must be evaluated to end up with headphones that match your requirements.
We had a lot of fun putting this guide together and hope you learn a lot. There is a rich variety of motorcycle headphones, which means there should be something for everyone. Take the time to read to the end for a good overview of what the motorcycle headphone marketplace is like. Headphones are one of the best gadgets for better riding.
Top Motorcycle Headphones by price:
Buying considerations
Intercom range
Battery
Durability
Compatibility
Top 7 Motorcycle Headphones Comparison Table
Make and Model | Weight | Battery Life | Price |
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FreedConn T-COMVB | 1.6 ounces | 10 hours | Check Price |
Motorcycle Helmet Communication System | 8.8 ounces | 6 hours | Check Price |
Sena SMH10-10 | 3.01 ounces | 12 hours | Check Price |
Sena SMH10R | 0.75 ounces | 8 hours | Check Price |
Cardo FRC20102 | 28.8 ounces | 13 hours | Check Price |
Westone UM Pro 20 | 7.8 ounces | wired | Check Price |
Shure SE215-K | 4.58 ounces | wired | Check Price |
Top Motorcycle Headphones under $100
Do you have a limited budget, but require motorcycles headphones that provide enough functionality to be useful? Then you’ll love the options we present in this category as they offer value for money. There are enough features to ensure you’re able to communicate with other riders, connect to your smartphone, and have a safe riding experience whilst doing it.
1. FreedConn T-COMVB Bluetooth Headset
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5.0
The budget buyer will appreciate the level of functionality that’s available with these motorcycle headphones. The mix of a sturdy design, attention to detail, and practicality means you’re going to get many years of use out of them.
The intercom range is 800m, which is competitive at the budget end of the scale. However, if you want an extra 100m worth of intercom range then take a look at the more expensive category on this list. It works up to a maximum speed of 120km/h – higher speeds may result in a loss of audio quality as the signal deteriorates.
These motorcycle headphones provide good audio due to the noise suppression technology and DPS echo cancelation. Therefore, you’ll be able to have clear conversations with others without having to repeat yourself.
The intercom system allows for paring with 3 other riders and you can talk with only one other rider at the same time. This is rather limiting when you consider that other systems allow you to pair up with 6 riders at the same time.
The intercom system can be used in light rain, which is convenient for riders that travel in rainy conditions. Furthermore, the talk time of these headphones is 10 hours, which is more than enough for a whole day of riding.
To conclude, the FreedConn T-COMVB Bluetooth Headset is a solid budget choice that has all the features the typical motorcycles need. The mix of the good intercom range and length battery life means there is a lot to like here.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 1.6 ounces |
Battery life: 10 hours |
Intercom range: 800 meters |
The Pros |
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Good value for money |
Solid build |
Good range |
The Cons |
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Connectivity with more riders could be added |
2. Motorcycle Helmet Communication System
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5.0
This is a tiny yet powerful motorcycle personal audio solution that comes in at a budget price point. The combination of the practical features and low price point means you’re not missing out when you invest in these motorcycle headphones.
This intercom unit allows you to communicate with other riders in a safe and productive manner. Communicate with 16 different groups of people at the same time. They have a strong level of compatibility with other intercom systems that are on this list. Therefore, you’ll have no trouble communicating with motorcyclists using headsets from other manufacturers.
A “Standard Wireless PTT Button” is added to allow you to communicate in a way that you don’t have to leave the handles. Therefore, it is safe and will not distract you from the road ahead.
The intercom range is 600m and you’ll get about 6 hours of talk time. The charging time is around 5 hours, which is rather long and will need to be completed overnight when you are not on the road. Thereis a waterproof rating of IP54, which does a good job of protecting the headphones from the rain.
One of the drawbacks of these motorcycles headphones is the lack of durability due to the low-grade build. You’ll need to take care of them to ensure that you’re able to achieve longevity.
To summarize, the Motorcycle Helmet Communication System is a solid offering at the budget end of the scale. The combination of the practical features and good performance means these are a solid choice for the budget buyer.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 8.8 ounces |
Battery life: 6 hours |
Intercom range: 600 meters |
The Pros |
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Good value for money |
Waterproof |
Compatible with various other brands |
The Cons |
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Battery and range could be improved |
Cheap materials |
Top Motorcycle Headphones under $200
The motorcycle headphones in the under $200 provide a long connectivity range to use the intercom, solid Bluetooth stability, plenty of features, and solid audio performance. They are also designed to fit with the majority of helmet types. Take a look for yourself to see what kind of options are available and if they meet your requirements.
3. Sena SMH10-10
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5.0
The Sena SMH10-10 has a number of well-implemented features that combine to provide the motorcyclist with a lot of functionality. Given the price point it’s a very competitive offering from a trusted brand. Take a close look at the list of various features to figure out if these Sena motorcycle headphones have the features to match your needs.
They have a Bluetooth 3.0 wireless connection that allows you to listen to music while riding in a straightforward manner. You can also use it for 4-way intercom with your fellow riders up to a range of 900 meters. Therefore, stay in close range with your companions to have a conversation.
Furthermore, when connected to your smartphone you can use the headset to answers calls. This is a safe way to answers calls while riding your motorcycle. It ensures you never miss an important call while on the road. It will also save you time since it means you don’t have to stop in order to enjoy a conversation. Talking while on the road can help a long journey go by much faster.
The SMH10-10 will fit into a variety of helmet type for easy installation. Sena provides you with clams to ensure compatibility with various helmets. Also the durability of the headphones means you can use them for years to come with no reliability problems.
They come with a 2 year warranty that only protects against workmanship defects. If you break the headphones yourself, then don’t expect Sena to help you out. Also the total talk time of the headphones is 12 hours, which is about average for the industry.
Before pulling the trigger on a purchase consider the disadvantages of the Sena SMH10-10. The installation is good for most helmets, but some might have a little trouble with the compatibility. Also the audio quality could be improved for the price point.
In conclusion, the Sena SMH10-10 is a well-rounded product that has all the features a serious motorcycle enthusiast could want. You can connect with other intercom systems, accept calls via your smartphone, and enjoy up to 12 hours of talk time battery life. It’s a solid offering that should give you some food for thought.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 3.01 ounces |
Battery life: 12 hours |
Intercom range: 900 meters |
The Pros |
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Good value for money |
12 hours of talk time |
Compatibility with other intercom systems |
The Cons |
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Audio quality could be improved |
4. Sena SMH10R
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5.0
The Sena SMH10R has a minimalist design and provides enough functionality to justify the price point. You’re getting a number of useful features that will make it easier to get from point A to B on your motorcycle. The creativity and attention to detail that has gone into the Sena SMH10R will be appreciated from day 1.
It’s an ultra-slim and feather light design, which means you’ll hardly feel that it’s there. Therefore, you’ll probably get used to it quicker that with other motorcycle headphones. It’s also a durable design that will not break easily – in any case defects are protected by the 2 year warranty deal.
There are a number of settings that allow you to find a volume profile that best matches your preferences. You can control the audio coming in and the volume of the microphone. The volume profiles can be saved separately so that you don’t have to play around with the setting every single time.
Using the standard clamp and default packaging you can install the Sena SMH10R onto the majority of helmets without a problem. Some helmets may require extra wire or earbuds, but Sena can provide you with the accessories at an extra cost.
The Bluetooth 3.0 connection allows you to connect with a smartphone and listen to your playlists. Also you can receive GPS voice instructions via a GPS based app. You’ll manage to achieve a talk time of 8 hours with the Sena SMH10R.
A disadvantage of the Sena SMH10R is the lack of a premium or durable feel due to the small size and inferior materials used. Also it is a rather pricy option when compared to the competition.
To summarize, the Sena SMH10R provides good value due to the excellent implementation of important features for motorcyclists. The combination of the 900m intercom range, clear microphone, and easy installation means you won’t regret purchasing the Sena SMH10R.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 0.75 ounces |
Battery life: 8 hours |
Intercom range: 900 meters |
The Pros |
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Lightweight |
Easy installation |
Decent quality microphone |
The Cons |
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Pricey |
5. Cardo FRC20102
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5.0
The Cardo FRC20102 is a pricey but solid motorcycle headphone that provides a good amount of quality with an array of useful features. It has a relatively small design that’s straightforward to install on most helmets. Delve deeper into the list of features to find out more about what it has to offer.
HD 40mm speakers are includedto provide the audio experience, which are clear and loud. Even when there is wind entering the helmet you’ll be able to clearly figure out what someone is saying to you via the intercom system.
The unit is waterproof and dustproof, which means you can rely on them in poor weather conditions for durability. You can use the Cardo FRC20102 for long road trips without worrying if they are going to give in due the unforeseen weather conditions or dirt.
Using the Bluetooth 4.1 connection you’ll receive 13 hours worth of talk time, which is slightly above average for what the completion is able to provide. Built-in FM radio is also included if you’d like to enjoy your favorite radio station while out on the road.
To summarize, the Cardo FRC20002 motorcycle headphones provide value for money and have a durable design. You’ll appreciate the level of sophistication that has been implemented into these headphones.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 28.8 ounces |
Battery life: 13 hours |
Intercom range: N/A |
The Pros |
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Bluetooth 4.1 |
13 hour battery life |
HD 40mm speakers |
The Cons |
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Small design might be a bit fidgety |
6. Westone UM Pro 20
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
The Westone UM Pro 20 earphones are a convenient solution that delivers an awesome audio experience for motorcycle enthusiasts. The premium price point is a big investment, but in return you’re getting a well-engineered product that’s designed in Colorado.
The audio drivers use a proprietary level of technology that is robust at the lower frequencies and crystal clear at the higher ones. It’s a professional grade level of audio that will bring any music track to life in a way that you have probably never experienced before.
The cable is made from flexible and highly durable material that’s ideal for daily motorcycle users. You can rely on the earphones lasting the duration of a long road trip. The cable is also light, which means you won’t feel like it is dragging on the earbuds.
The fit is comfortable, so is great for long road trips. You enjoy the secure in-ear design that doesn’t come loose when you suddenly move your head. Therefore, you won’t need to constantly take off your helmet in order to adjust the fit. A number of eartips are included and by selecting the right one you’ll get a comfortably sung fit with excellent noise isolation.
Aesthetically the earbuds look rather odd since you can somewhat see through the earbud casing. This might not be to your liking, but since you’ll be wearing a motorcycle helmet it shouldn’t be a problem. It’s also on the pricey side so you’ll need to decide if the quality offered is enough to justify the investment.
To conclude, the Westone UM Pro 20 is a great choice for the motorcycle enthusiast that’s interested in excellent audio, comfort, and durability. Just keep in mind that you will need to sacrifice the visual aesthetics and there is a big price tag.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 7.8 ounces |
Battery life: wired |
Intercom range: N/A |
The Pros |
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Excellent audio |
Durable |
Comfortable fit |
Propriety audio driver technology |
The Cons |
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Pricey |
Astatically not the best |
7. Shure SE215-K
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
Shure is a reliable brand that consistently delivers awesome personal audio solutions for a wide variety of uses. The Shure SE215-K is not specifically designed for motorcycle enthusiasts, but it has a number of features that are useful while out on the road.
The lightweight and low profile design means they are comfortable to wear. The nozzle is angled to allow for a highly ergonomic fit that will stay in place regardless of how quickly you move your head. Therefore, you won’t have to stop and take off your helmet in order to adjust the earbuds.
Furthermore, the cable has a reinforced durable design that will not wear out shortly after purchase. You can rely on these earbuds for long road trips, which eliminates the need to buy a backup option. A Fit Kit is included that contains 3 different eartip sizes that helps you get the best fit for your ears.
A high definition driver is utilized to deliver a frequency range of 22 Hz –17.5 kHz, which has excellent clarity and attention to detail. The noise isolating design contributes to the audio clarity as you don’t have to deal with the noises other motorists are making. The overall audio quality is competitive when you consider the cost of around $100.
To conclude, the Shure SE215-K is an excellent personal audio solution for the motorcycle enthusiast that needs something reliable for long road trips. The excellent level of audio quality combined with comfortable ergonomics means you’re going to enjoy using these from day 1.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 4.58 ounces |
Battery life: wired |
Intercom range: N/A |
The Pros |
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Excellent audio |
Durable |
Ergonomic fit |
Good value for money |
The Cons |
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Bass could be improved |
Contents
- Top Motorcycle Headphones by price:
- Buying considerations
- Intercom range
- Battery
- Durability
- Compatibility
- Top 7 Motorcycle Headphones Comparison Table
- Top Motorcycle Headphones under $100
- 1. FreedConn T-COMVB Bluetooth Headset
- 2. Motorcycle Helmet Communication System
- Top Motorcycle Headphones under $200
- 3. Sena SMH10-10
- 4. Sena SMH10R
- 5. Cardo FRC20102
- 6. Westone UM Pro 20
- 7. Shure SE215-K