CNET editors' review
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CNET editors' rating:
stars
Very good
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 10/01/2008
Bluetooth speakerphones are getting more popular these days, as more states start to implement hands-free driving laws. They're mostly made for in-car use, like the BlueAnt Supertooth 3 and the Motorola Motorokr T505. However, there are several Bluetooth speakerphones that can be used outside the car as well, such as the Samsung Portable Hands-free Speakerphone HKT450. The HKT450 not only works as a hands-free speakerphone, but it also has A2DP streaming so you can use it as a portable-stereo speaker, plus there's a "personal handset mode" that lets you use it like you would a cell phone. We weren't thrilled with the visor-clip attachment, but the number of features it has is quite impressive. The HKT450 has a street price of about $79.99.
The Samsung HKT450 may not be the thinnest Bluetooth speakerphone in the world, but it's certainly the skinniest we've ever seen. Measuring 5.23 inches long by 1.94 inches wide by 0.6 inch thick, the HKT450 is also very lightweight at only 2.85 ounces, so you could carry this around with ease.
The leftmost third of the speakerphone is dominated by an omnidirectional speaker grille, while the right side houses the multifunction call button, two LED indicators, and the volume controls. On top of the speakerphone are the 2.5mm line-out jack and the Mute/Mode button, while the charger jack is on the bottom. All controls are slightly elevated above the surface of the device, and have a nice "clicky" feel to them. The microphone is located on the top right. The HKT450 comes with a hard, plastic, visor-clip attachment (to be used on your car's visor), which we found rather flimsy--our unit's attachment broke with only the mildest of adjustments. Other accessories include a USB cable, an AC adapter, and a car charger.
We paired the Samsung HKT450 with the Verizon Wireless Blitz. The process is pretty standard; make sure the speakerphone is off, hold down the multifunction button for six seconds, and the blue and red LED indicators will flash alternately, indicating that it is in pairing mode. From there you can answer, end, and reject calls by pressing the multifunction button (holding it down for 3 seconds rejects the call). You can also voice dial (if your phone supports it), last number redial, mute calls (by pressing the Mute/Mode button), and transfer calls between the speakerphone and the handset.
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