When it comes to Bluetooth headsets that deliver superior call quality, two of the most well-known contenders from Plantronics—now known as Poly—are the Voyager 5200 and the Voyager Legend. These headsets are known for their ergonomic design and professional-grade audio performance. Choosing the better device between the two depends on various factors, particularly in the realm of call clarity, noise cancellation, and usability.
In this comparison, both headsets are put side-by-side to determine which offers the best call quality for professionals, remote workers, and on-the-go communicators.
Design and Build Quality
The Plantronics Voyager 5200 introduces a more angular, streamlined aesthetic compared to the Voyager Legend. It’s slightly larger but has been meticulously designed for enhanced microphone placement and better wind resistance. On the other hand, the Voyager Legend maintains a classic, curvy silhouette that’s known for its comfort in extended usage scenarios.
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Both headsets offer over-the-ear designs with rotating mic booms, but the 5200 edges ahead by offering IPX4-rated sweat and water resistance, making it more suitable for use in unpredictable environments.
Audio and Call Quality
This is where the real distinction arises. The Voyager 5200 uses six layers of WindSmart technology to cancel out background noise and wind interference. Coupled with four adaptive microphones, it intelligently separates your voice from surrounding noise, a feature that proves extremely effective in noisy public spaces or while driving.
In comparison, the Voyager Legend comes with three microphones and a triple-mic noise-canceling system that performs well but doesn’t quite achieve the same level of clarity and background suppression as the 5200, especially in outdoor environments.
During multiple test scenarios—office spaces, traffic-heavy roads, and cafes—the Voyager 5200 consistently produced crisp, natural-sounding audio with minimal background interference. Reviewers and everyday users often describe its call quality as nearly indistinguishable from a landline.
Battery Life and Performance
Both headsets offer excellent battery life. The Voyager Legend comes out slightly ahead with up to 7 hours of talk time and 11 days of standby. The 5200 offers up to 7 hours of talk time and 9 days of standby time, which is respectable but slightly less impressive.
However, the 5200 supports quick charging and improved operational range. Its Bluetooth 5.0 compatibility (compared to the Legend’s outdated 3.0) offers enhanced connectivity and faster pairing with modern devices.
Smart Features
- Voyager 5200: Comes with smart sensor technology that detects when it’s being worn to automatically answer calls. It also supports voice commands for answering or ignoring calls and integrates seamlessly with voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant.
- Voyager Legend: Also features smart sensors, voice commands, and multipoint technology allowing connection with two devices simultaneously.
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Overall, the 5200 offers a slightly more modern and feature-rich experience suitable for daily professional use in varying environments.
Conclusion: Best for Call Quality
While both the Voyager 5200 and Voyager Legend are excellent choices, the Voyager 5200 clearly stands out in terms of call quality. Its advanced microphone array, WindSmart technology, and improved noise cancellation make it the preferred choice for individuals who require crystal-clear conversations regardless of their surroundings.
The Voyager Legend remains a reliable and comfortable alternative, particularly for indoor users or those who don’t frequently encounter noisy environments. However, for the best call performance, the 5200 takes the lead.
FAQs
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Q: Which headset has better noise cancellation?
A: The Voyager 5200 offers superior noise cancellation due to its four adaptive microphones and WindSmart technology. -
Q: Is the Voyager 5200 worth the higher price?
A: Yes, especially for users who prioritize call clarity in busy or outdoor settings. -
Q: Can both headsets connect to multiple devices?
A: Yes, both support multipoint technology, allowing connection with two devices at once. -
Q: What’s the battery life difference?
A: The Voyager Legend offers slightly better standby time, but both provide around 7 hours of talk time. -
Q: Which is more comfortable for long usage?
A: Comfort depends on personal preference, but many users find the Legend slightly more comfortable for extended wear due to its classic ergonomic design.
