Best motorcycle Bluetooth headsets to get connected and cue the beats - An expert buying guide

Updated: 03 December 2024

Some of us prefer the silence and solitude of riding. But some of us like to stay connected and listen to tunes. We’re light years past the old Vetter fairings with tape decks. Maybe you’re not into music, but love hearing GPS nav directions or speaking with the passenger on your touring bike or other riders in your group. Regardless, all you need is a smartphone, a mount and the latest Bluetooth headset.

If you’ve found this page from the UK, try this version of our best motorcycle intercoms page.

Latest news: Cardo launch Packtalk Pro with crash detection capabilities

Bluetooth headsets integrate your phone’s functionality with speakers, intercom, microphone, or any peripheral device (or “farkle”, in BMW terms). Everything gets connected without wires or cords. And you can control it all with voice commands.

The best motorcycle Bluetooth intercoms at a glance:

Cardo Packtalk Edge Mesh – View on revzilla.com
Cardo Freecom 4x – View on revzilla.com
Sena 50R – View on revzilla.com

Bluetooth intercoms can be either a universal or integrated fit. A universal fit usually has external mounting and means you can swap your headset between multiple helmets. An integrated fit usually means internal mounting with custom-made apertures and fitting. It just depends on whether you want the Bluetooth functionality for multiple types of riding (and helmet usage) or not. Our extensive testing has produced a couple clear winners.

Best motorcycle intercoms:

Cardo Packtalk Pro

Price: $459.95

www.revzilla.com

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Tested by Ben Clarke for 1 month/500 miles

"The Packtalk Pro combines all the best features and added extras from previous Packtalk models, so you get a magnetic cradle attachment, 45mm JBL speakers, top-notch Mesh connectivity, and FM radio, plus the latest tech upgrades.

"I've tried several different intercoms, and the biggest issue for me has always been sound quality. I ride with earplugs, and with the noise from the road and wind, most intercoms become pretty much useless over 30mph. But the Pro, with its large 45mm JBL speakers, works for me. I have to turn it all the way up, and I still can't hear quieter things like podcasts on the highway, but music and phone calls come through loud and clear.

"Setting up the Mesh connection is really simple. On a group ride with other journalists at the product launch, we just pressed two buttons on each of our units at the same time, and they synced instantly. After that, it’s as easy as chatting away, since the channel stays open the whole time."

Read our full Cardo Packtalk Pro review

Pros

Easy to fit to your helmet
Loud, clear sound
Voice command controlled
Really easy Mesh connection for group rides
Crash detection system that messages for help

Cons

Need to use specific voice commands
Buttons hard to locate in gloves
Have to pre-program phone number favourites

Looks

5.0
Sound

4.0
Ease of fitment

5.0
Ease of use

3.0
Value

3.0
Quality

5.0
Verdict

4.0

Waterproofing	IP67
Mounting	Magnetic
Speakers	45mm JBL
Charge time	2 hours
Talk time	13 hours

Up to 15 riders
Automatic crash detection
Smartphone app interface
Voice operation
FM radio

Cardo Packtalk Edge Mesh Intercom

Price: $359.96

www.revzilla.com

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Tested by Affiliate Operations Editor, Adam Binnie on a European tour

"Installing the Packtalk Edge was straightforward. It took about an hour to mount using either a sticky pad or a clip, depending on your helmet type. Once mounted, the unit clicks onto the helmet with magnets, which is convenient. Pairing it with my phone and updating the software was seamless.

"I put the intercom to the test on a four-day road trip through the Black Forest. The Packtalk Edge delivered excellent audio quality from its 40mm JBL speakers, even though the quality slightly degraded with earplugs and at higher speeds. The connection was reliable, quickly pairing with my phone and my friend's unit every time we used it. The voice controls were a pleasant surprise, working well for answering calls and controlling music.

"Voice quality was best at lower speeds and shorter distances. The mesh connectivity worked well, maintaining communication even on windy forest roads. There were minor issues with messages dropping out, but these could likely be fixed by adjusting the sensitivity settings in the app. On highways, it was harder to understand speech due to wind noise, but the intercom was loud enough to be usable.

"The battery life was as advertised, lasting about 13 hours on a full charge. We managed to drain both units on a long day of riding, but a 20-minute fast charge provided an extra two hours of use, which was handy.

"There were a few minor downsides. The unit can be fiddly to remove from the helmet while wearing gloves, and I had trouble remembering the functions of the three buttons, though most tasks can be handled by voice commands. The battery life announcement could be more precise, as it only indicates 75%, 50%, or 25% remaining.

"The Cardo Packtalk Edge is highly recommended for its ease of use, reliable connection, and excellent audio quality. For the best experience, invest in a quiet helmet and experiment with earplugs. This intercom is perfect for long trips where distraction-free communication is crucial."

Read our full Cardo Packtalk Edge review

Pros

Easy to use on the move
Slim design is subtle on your helmet
High audio quality

Cons

Several buttons for you to learn and remember
Voice sensitivity needs setting up

Ease of installation

4.0
Sound quality

4.0
Ease of use

4.0
Quality

4.0
Value

4.0
Overall

4.0

Dimensions	46 mm x 84 mm x 23 mm
Weight	47 g
Speakers	40 mm
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.2, dynamic mesh
Range	1.6 km/1 mile
Battery life	12 hours

Air mount
2nd generation mesh Dynamic Mesh Control
Natural voice operation
IP67 waterproof
JBL audio
Over the air software updates
3 year warranty
Connects with any other brand

Sena 50R

Price: $287.20

www.revzilla.com

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Tested by MCN Editor, Richard Newland for 3 months and 3100 miles

"There are some primary ‘must-haves’ for me when it comes to intercom units: The sound must be clear and loud (I wear earplugs); the buttons must be chunky; it must be intuitive to set up and use; and it must have a decent battery life. Audio integrity and button pressability aside, ease of use and battery are key for me, because I’m not an overly eager intercom user.

"But when I do actively use it – as opposed to it simply being ‘on’ in case someone rings – the 50R is impressive. I’ve previously used a Cardo Packtalk Bold, and I’d say the Sena is (marginally) the easier to use, and certainly better in the button department, while the Cardo’s JBL speakers do boast cleaner audio.

"In terms of functionality, it does everything from voice commands to app support, is Bluetooth 5 and Mesh 2.0 enabled, charges in just an hour, boasts an FM radio, and supports multi-bike Mesh intercom at up to 1.2 miles. Battery life is superb and the unit itself is compact enough not to feel like you’ve glued a brick to your helmet."

Pros

Simple to set up
Easy to use
Loud and clear audio quality

Cons

People can ring you when you're riding...

Ease of installation

5.0
Sound quality

4.0
Ease of use

5.0
Quality

5.0
Value

5.0
Overall

5.0

Dimensions	97mm x 48mm x 27mm
Weight	65g
Speakers	Harman and Kardon
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.0 and Mesh
Range	1.2 miles
Battery life	13 hours
Charge time	2.5 hours

FM radio
Noise cancellation
Mesh connection to 8 other riders
Hands-free operation

Sena 20S Evo

Price: $269

www.revzilla.com

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Tested by RiDE Mag Products Specialist, Jim Blackstock

"Installing the 20S Evo is straightforward, thanks to its universal design. The mounting bracket clamps securely to the lower edge of the helmet, and the intercom unit slides on and off easily for charging. It includes both an adhesive microphone for full-face helmets and a boom microphone for flip-front helmets. Pairing the device with a smartphone is simple: just hold down the main button, select pairing, and find the device on your phone.

"I tested the 20S Evo on various rides, including a day-long tour and a four-hour motorway journey. The intercom paired seamlessly with another headset, providing crystal-clear voice clarity up to half a mile away. The redesigned sharkfin antenna greatly enhances signal quality. The speakers, though standard 40mm, deliver good sound quality, making music and calls clear and enjoyable.

"The 20S Evo extends all smartphone functionalities to the helmet, allowing you to listen to and control music, receive sat-nav instructions, and make or take calls. The large central dial is easy to use, even with gloves, though changing music tracks by holding the button and rotating the dial can be tricky at speed. The unit also supports voice control and can be managed through the Sena smartphone app, which offers additional settings and functionalities.

"The sound quality of the 20S Evo is impressive, though not audiophile-level. It's sufficient for enjoying music and maintaining clear phone calls. The built-in FM radio is a nice addition for those who enjoy listening to the radio while riding. The voice control feature works well, and for Apple users, Siri integration enhances hands-free control.

"The battery life of the 20S Evo is robust, easily lasting through a full day of riding. During my test, the intercom showed no low battery warnings even after eight hours on standby, one hour of calls, and three hours of music and sat-nav instructions.

"One minor downside is that the mounting bracket hangs lower than many other intercoms, potentially generating some external noise. However, this is negligible compared to the overall noise from the road. Additionally, the mechanism for changing music tracks could be more user-friendly, especially at higher speeds.

"Overall, the Sena 20S Evo is a highly recommended motorcycle intercom. It is reliable, easy to install, and offers excellent sound quality and battery life. With its extensive features and ease of use, it is well-suited for most riders, whether you're traveling solo or in a group. The added functionality through the smartphone app and voice control makes it a versatile choice for enhancing your riding experience."

The Sena 20S is also available as a dual pack

Read our full Sena 20S Evo review

Pros

Universal fitting for any helmet
Connects with eight other units
Bluetooth 4.1 architecture

Cons

Requires a £99 adapter to run mesh
Fairly large external presence on the helmet

Ease of installation

4.0
Sound quality

4.0
Ease of use

4.0
Quality

4.0
Value

4.0
Overall

4.0

Dimensions	94.7 mm x 48.3 mm x 25.5 mm
Weight	61 g
Speakers	40 mm
Connectivity	Bluetooth 4.1
Range	2 km / 1.2 miles
Battery life	13 hours
Charge time	2.5 hours

Bluetooth 4.1
Audio Multitasking
8-Way intercom
Voice command
Group Intercom
HD Speakers
Universal Intercom
Advanced Noise Control
Remote control compatible

Cardo Freecom 4X Headset

Price: $260.96

www.revzilla.com

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Tested by RiDE Mag Products Specialist, Jim Blackstock

"Installing the Freecom 4X is straightforward. It fits universally on almost any helmet, and the controls, although small, are easy to use even with gloved hands. The thumb wheel is convenient for adjusting volume, though skipping tracks requires remembering button combinations. However, the voice control system simplifies this, allowing you to execute commands like "Music on/off," "Next/previous track," and "Answer/Ignore/End call" by simply speaking.

"The voice control system is reliable, responding accurately to pre-programmed phrases. Occasionally, it might confuse commands, such as turning the radio on instead of music, but these instances are rare. Pairing the headset with Cardo’s smartphone app allows you to tailor settings and preset speed-dial numbers, enhancing usability.

"The Freecom 4X boasts excellent sound quality, thanks to its 40mm JBL speakers. The bass is deep, the mid-range is clear, and the top-end is precise, providing a superb audio experience across various music genres. The call quality is also excellent, ensuring clear communication at both ends.

"The battery life is impressive, lasting through entire days of riding without running out. This longevity makes it reliable for long trips where constant connectivity is essential.

"The Cardo Freecom 4X is an exceptional Bluetooth headset for motorcyclists, offering excellent sound quality, reliable voice control, and easy connectivity to smartphones and sat-navs. Its ability to function as an intercom is a bonus, and the availability of a second-helmet kit adds to its versatility. Overall, it is a highly recommended device for riders seeking a comprehensive communication and entertainment solution."

Read our full Cardo Freecom 4X headset review

Pros

Exceptional sound quality
Reliable voice control
Availability of second-helmet kit

Cons

Can only connect to network of four devices

Ease of installation

5.0
Sound quality

5.0
Ease of use

4.0
Quality

5.0
Value

5.0
Overall

5.0

Dimensions	48 mm x 78 mm x 20mm
Weight	37 g
Speakers	40 mm
Connectivity	Bluetooth, live intercom
Range	3.6 km / 2.2 miles
Battery life	13 hours
Charge time	2 hours

Natural voice operation
Sound by JBL
Live Bluetooth
Connects up to 4 riders
Over the Air software updates
2 year warranty
Connects with any other brand

Sena SRL2

Price: $299

www.revzilla.com

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Tested by RiDE Mag Products Specialist, Jim Blackstock on a Shoei Neotec 2

"The SRL2 intercom system is tailored to fit perfectly within the Shoei Neotec 2 helmet. The installation process is straightforward: the speakers slot into the helmet’s liner recesses, the control unit replaces a plastic section on the left side, the antenna fits on the right, and the battery sits at the base of the neck. The microphone fits neatly into a designated housing in the chinbar. Once installed, the SRL2 is almost unnoticeable and does not affect the comfort or feel of the helmet.

"The SRL2 uses a simple three-button control system: plus, minus, and a center function button. These buttons manage all functions through various combinations of short and long presses. While it may take some time to memorize the controls, the system is intuitive once learned. For those who find the buttons difficult to use, especially with thick gloves, Sena offers remote controls to simplify the process.

"Like the 20S Evo, the SRL2 pairs easily with smartphones, allowing you to control music, make and take phone calls, and receive sat-nav instructions. It also pairs with up to eight other Bluetooth intercoms, offering a range of up to a mile. This feature is ideal for staying in touch with other riders or a pillion passenger.

"The integrated design of the SRL2 ensures it fits perfectly within the Shoei Neotec 2 helmet, without sticking out or generating additional turbulence or noise. The intercom system is unobtrusive and blends seamlessly with the helmet’s aesthetics. The battery life is solid, but since the battery is integrated, you need to charge the entire helmet.

"The Sena SRL2 is an excellent choice for riders using the Shoei Neotec 2 helmet. Its seamless integration, ease of use, and reliable performance make it a standout intercom system. The primary consideration is the commitment to using a helmet-specific intercom, which limits its use to the compatible helmet models. However, for those planning to keep their helmet for its service life, the SRL2 offers a flawless, unobtrusive communication solution."

Read our full Sena SRL2 intercom review

Pros

Integrated design fits perfectly
Uses Sena's existing well-known platform
Headset and intercom functionality

Cons

Integrated battery, so have to 'charge' whole helmet

Ease of installation

5.0
Sound quality

4.0
Ease of use

4.0
Quality

5.0
Value

3.0
Overall

4.0

Dimensions	Fully integrated to helmet
Weight	100g
Speakers	40mm Sena
Connectivity	Bluetooth 4.1
Range	1.6 km
Battery life	10 hours
Charge time	2.5 hours

Integrates with certain Shoei helmets
Hands-free operation
Noise cancelling tech
FM radio
Supports up to 8 riders

Sena intercom remote control

Sena RC3 Remote Control

Price: $49.95

www.revzilla.com

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Tested by RiDE Mag Products Specialist, Jim Blackstock

This handy device from Sena can take all the fiddling out of finding the buttons on your headset intercom. This is more convenient, but it's also safer as you keep your hands closer to the bike's controls.

Read our full Sena RC3 remote control review

Pros

Lets you keep your hands on the bars
More convenient than helmet buttons

Cons

Just a controller

Intercoms we’re yet to test

Sena 30K Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset/Mesh Communication System with HD Speakers, Dual Pack

Best for flip fronts

Price: $299

www.revzilla.com

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Bluetooth and mesh intercom with 1.2 mile range and smartphone connectivity for making calls and listening to music. Twin pack is ideal if you want to talk to a co rider or your pillion.

Full review coming soon

Pros

Dual pack
HD speakers
Uses Mesh system

Cons

Hard to hear at motorway speeds

Dimensions	102 mm x 56 mm x 27 mm
Weight	61 g
Speakers	40 mm
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.0, Mesh
Range	2 km / 1.2 miles
Battery life	11 hours
Charge time	2.5 hours

Mesh intercom
Bluetooth 5.0
Multi-channel communication
Advanced Noise Control
HD speakers
Audio Multitasking
Voice command
Group Intercom

How do motorcycle Bluetooth communicators work?

Intercoms connect to phones and GPS navs via Bluetooth, and to other intercoms. Bluetooth intercoms generally have a range of 1-1.5 miles, depending on the antenna and can handle conversations with multiple riders. For speaking with passengers or close groups, it works well. However, for greater numbers or ranges, MESH technology can be useful.

Bluetooth headsets seamlessly pair and remember users so if a rider falls out of range, they’ll automatically reconnect when in range again.

Need advice on how to install a motorcycle intercom? Check out our guide.

How MCN tested these Bluetooth headsets

The MCN team of expert journalists have decades of experience over hundreds of thousands of miles. We don’t torture test anything. We use it just like you do in the real world and in all conditions to deliver impartial Bluetooth headset buying advice.

MCN covers countless miles each week and tries lots of options in a short space of time. We quickly discover which headsets work, how long they last, and how well they performed overall.

We only feature Bluetooth headsets we’ve extensively tested. Comparison headsets will be included if deemed important and relevant. Testing is ongoing and we will continually add gear and products to our site.

To find out more, head to our dedicated page explaining how we test motorcycle products.

Our scores explained

When we review a product, we award it a score out of five. In the ratings tab of a given product, you may also find more specific scores for the different aspects of a product’s performance to help you make an informed decision. Here’s a guide to what each number score means:

Products are given a score from 1 to 5 stars. Beyond the ratings tab, you’ll find in-depth info on product and gear performance and attributes.

1 Star – Avoid at all costs.
2 Stars – Barely acceptable.
3 Stars – Average or adequate.
4 Stars – Above average.
5 Stars – Excellent performance.

To find out more, head to our dedicated page explaining how we test motorcycle products.

- Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us.

By Anders Carlson

USA Correspondant Rider, writer and enthusiast since 2006. Currently based in Chicago, USA, Anders writes for numerous titles, including Motorcyclist, Cycle World, Motorcycle Classics and even Road & track once. He enjoys subjecting gear to inadvisable road trips, inhospitable conditions and track days. When away from his desk or the open road, Anders loves restoring vintage 2-stroke bikes as much as actually riding new electric motorcycles.