LG Tone Flex HBS-XL7 might be ‘just right’ for truckers

For many truckers, the stand-alone, in-ear Apple AirPods provide good sound but are too small.

For others, the over-the-head style headset with two ear pads and a boom mic — even if they are wireless — are too big.

LG Tone Flex HBS-XL7LG Tone Flex HBS-XL7

So, think of the LG Tone Flex HBS-XL7 as the Goldilocks solution for wireless, in-cab communications as it is “just right” for even the pickiest trucker. That’s because it does a lot of things well, and has the features most truckers want and need.

Let’s begin with the obvious. It’s bigger than the AirPods and smaller than that typical, two-ear-cup headset. It’s lightweight at just a bit more than an ounce and a half. That means you can put it on first thing and keep it on all day without any discomfort.

Making it even more comfortable is that it wraps around your neck. A rubberized section at the back helps keep it in place.

On the left side of the Flex are the control buttons: on/off, playback, volume. On the right side is a single button for the Google Assistant, which delivers notifications and can be used to make inquiries and calls.

The LG Tone Flex HBS-XL7 is a moderately priced Bluetooth headset loaded with features usually found in more expensive gear. The Flex features:

  • 32-Bit hi-fi DAC (digital to analog conversion) for premium-quality sound
  • Retractable earbuds that won’t get lost
  • 8 hours of talk/listening time
  • 10 days of standby battery life
  • Fast access and response from Google Assistant
  • Fast charging; 10 minutes of charging delivers three hours of play time
  • Dual microphones make sure you’re properly heard
  • Fast Bluetooth pairing with any make of smartphone
  • USB C-type charging

Available online and at travel centers.