Poly Voyager Focus 2 UC Bluetooth Headset Review Best Noise-Canceling Over-Ear Headphones

Description

Unboxing and First Impressions

I recently got my hands on the Poly Voyager Focus 2 UC Bluetooth Headset, and my initial reaction was pretty positive. The sleek black design with a professional vibe instantly caught my attention. It felt modern and premium, which is important for something you’ll be wearing on your head for long stretches. The included stand was a nice touch, making it easy to keep the headset organized and within reach when not in use. What stood out to me immediately was how lightweight the headband felt, yet it didn’t compromise on durability. The plush ear cushions are another detail I appreciated—it’s evident that comfort was a priority in the design.

The setup was straightforward enough. Connecting to both my computer using the BT700 USB-A adapter and my phone via Bluetooth v5.1 was seamless. I didn’t have to fiddle with settings or troubleshoot, which is always a relief. That’s already a win in my book, especially for someone who isn’t always patient with tech.

Positives

Testing the Voyager Focus 2 during my work calls and daily tasks, I found several features worth highlighting:

• Advanced Digital Hybrid Active Noise Canceling (ANC): The three settings (high, low, and off) let me fine-tune the noise cancellation based on my environment. Whether I was in a quiet room or a noisy coffee shop, it adjusted perfectly.
• Poly Acoustic Fence technology: This is a game-changer. The multi-microphone system blocked out background noise so well that my coworkers thought I was in a soundproof room.
• Dynamic Mute Alert: I was pleasantly surprised by this feature. It gently alerted me whenever I started talking while muted, saving me from those awkward “You’re on mute!” moments.
• Lightweight and comfortable: The sling headband and ear cushions were so comfortable that I almost forgot I was wearing them, even during hours-long meetings.

Areas for Improvement

While I was overall impressed, I noticed a few shortcomings that are worth mentioning:

• Price point: It’s on the higher end of the spectrum, which might make some people hesitate. While it offers incredible features, not everyone might feel it justifies the cost.
• Limited color options: While I personally love the black design, having more color choices could cater to a broader audience.
• Stand stability: The included stand could be a bit sturdier. On a wobbly desk, it felt like the headset might tip over if I wasn’t careful.

Comfort and Usability

Comfort plays a huge role in headsets, especially for people like me who spend long hours on calls. The Voyager Focus 2 excels in this department. The lightweight build and plush ear cushions made a noticeable difference during my usage. Unlike many over-ear headsets I’ve tried, this one didn’t cause any discomfort or heat buildup. Whether I was walking around the house or sitting at my desk, the fit remained secure yet gentle.

The controls are intuitive and well-placed. Adjusting the ANC levels, muting, or switching between devices felt natural. Speaking of devices, the ability to connect to both my computer and phone simultaneously was a lifesaver. I didn’t have to constantly disconnect and reconnect, which made multitasking much easier.

Audio Quality and Performance

The audio performance of this headset is where it truly shines. The sound quality was crystal clear, whether I was on a call or streaming music. The noise-canceling capabilities were particularly impressive. During a windy day, I tested it while walking outside, and the background noise was virtually eliminated. The Poly Acoustic Fence technology deserves special mention here—it ensured that my voice came through loud and clear, even in noisy settings.

I also noticed that the Bluetooth v5.1 connection was incredibly stable. There were no annoying drops or lags, which is a common issue with other Bluetooth devices I’ve used. The headset managed to maintain a strong connection even when I moved a room away from the source device.

Competing Products

When comparing the Voyager Focus 2 to other popular headsets like the Bose 700 or the Jabra Evolve2 85, a few key differences stood out. The Poly Acoustic Fence technology gave this headset an edge in call quality. While the Bose 700 is known for its excellent noise cancellation, it doesn’t quite match the microphone clarity of the Voyager Focus 2. On the other hand, the Jabra Evolve2 85 offers a slightly more immersive audio experience for music lovers, but its weight makes it less comfortable for extended wear. If your primary goal is professional use, the Voyager Focus 2 strikes a balance between comfort and performance that’s hard to beat.

Value for Money

When it comes to cost-effectiveness, this headset is a solid contender. Although it’s not the most budget-friendly option out there, the range of features makes it worth considering. You get professional-grade audio performance, reliable noise canceling, and unmatched comfort. For someone who spends a lot of time on calls or needs a versatile headset for both work and leisure, the investment feels justifiable. However, if you’re on a tight budget, there are other headsets with fewer features but still decent performance.

Overall, the Poly Voyager Focus 2 UC Bluetooth Headset offers a blend of high-quality audio, user-friendly design, and advanced features. It’s not perfect, but it’s a fantastic choice for professionals or anyone who values clear communication and comfort.