Compact and portable, a cellular microphone can help you communicate without having to hold your phone. Whether you need traditional or hands-free voice amplification, a cellular microphone provider will find the right unit to free up your hands so you can drive or even sign documents. External cellular microphones are even necessary in states like New York and Connecticut where using cell phones while driving is against the law.

Depending on whether you plan to buy in bulk for your staff or whether you're looking for a solid unit for yourself, a cellular microphone provider should offer some kind of warranty as well as customer service for tasks like installation and troubleshooting.

Consider the following cellular microphone information to make the right purchase:

1. The benefits of a hands-free cellular microphone unit

2. Recommendations from vendor companies that test and review those units

3. Companies who can add repairs and parts to their cellular microphone list of attributes

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Put a hands-free model at the top of your cellular microphone list

If you're on the road, consider a car kit that will not only let you talk without having to adjust a headset, but one that would also charge your cell phone simultaneously. Look for a unit with an easily accessible volume control button as well as one that easily plugs into your car via the cigarette lighter. If you'd feel more comfortable not having to reach out for controls at all, find headsets complete with boom microphones and mini buttons for answering incoming calls.

I recommend: AlternativeWireless.com features the Universal Navigator Hands-Free Kit for easy installation. Cellphone-store.com features the Rocket Science Sonic Boom hands-free headset and many others in its hands-free products catalog.

Use cellular microphone reviews at retail sites to compare durability and price

If you've purchased a cellular microphone before, you know they don't always last long and can just stop working after even the slightest trauma. They can also be quite uncomfortable if they don't quite fit into your ear. Look for reviews from a cellular microphone directory to save the most on units that will last the longest.

I recommend: eMicrophones tests all their units for comfort, durability and price. 1-800Mobiles.com sells the Jabra line, which is known for comfort and affordability.

Find cellular microphone parts and repair online

Have a cellular microphone you really love? You can look online for a similar model or find cellular microphone repair services or parts just as easily. The repair services or parts can sometimes be more expensive than brand new units but, if you have a unit that fits you particularly well, repair is an option to consider.

I recommend: Find cell phone and microphone repair parts through CellularDr.com. Cellphone Repair Shop sells microphone repair for a variety of models for one price.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you buy a cellular microphone with a boom-style arm, ask the vendor for extra microphone screens. They are made of foam and protect the microphone from debris and moisture.