Comparison Review of GoRef Referee Headsets VS FBIM Referee Headsets
For soccer referees, reliable communication is essential. Whether you’re managing a local league match or a competitive tournament, being able to communicate clearly with your assistant referees can improve teamwork and decision-making throughout the game.
Two popular referee communication systems in the affordable price range are the NOECI GoRef and the EJEAS FBIM. Both support four-user full-duplex communication, use Bluetooth 5.1 technology, and are designed specifically for football referees.
However, there are some important differences when it comes to usability, battery capacity, microphone controls, headset design, and referee-friendly features.
Let’s take a closer look.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | NOECI GoRef | EJEAS FBIM |
|---|---|---|
| Max Users | 4 | 4 |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 | 5.1 |
| Full Duplex | Yes | Yes |
| Communication Distance | 1200m | 1200m |
| Battery Capacity | 500mAh | 850mAh |
| Microphone Mute | Yes | No |
| Voice Prompts | Yes | No |
| Noise Reduction | CVC | CVC |
| Sound Technology | 3D Sound | 3D Sound |
| Waterproof Rating | IP65 | IP65 |
| Headphone Connector | 3.5mm Jack | Type-C |
| Charging Port | Micro USB | Type-C |
| Antenna Design | Built-in | External |
| Belt Clip Support | Yes | Yes |
Communication Performance
When it comes to basic communication performance, both systems are very similar.
Both the GoRef and FBIM support up to four referees talking simultaneously in full-duplex mode. This means everyone can speak and listen naturally without pressing a push-to-talk button.
Both systems also use Bluetooth 5.1 technology and provide communication distances of up to 1200 meters when four devices are connected.
For most football pitches, this provides more than enough coverage.
Communication Summary
| Feature | GoRef | FBIM |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 | 5.1 |
| Full Duplex | Yes | Yes |
| Max Users | 4 | 4 |
| Communication Distance | 1200m | 1200m |
| Match Coverage | Excellent | Excellent |
Microphone Mute Function
This is one area where the GoRef has a clear advantage.
The GoRef includes a one-button microphone mute function. By double-clicking the button, referees can temporarily mute their microphone while continuing to hear the rest of the officiating team.
This feature can be useful when speaking with coaches, match officials, or players without broadcasting every conversation to the entire referee crew.
The FBIM does not include a dedicated microphone mute function.
Microphone Mute Summary
| Feature | GoRef | FBIM |
|---|---|---|
| Microphone Mute | Yes | No |
| One-Touch Control | Yes | No |
| Referee Convenience | High | Standard |
Voice Prompt System
Many referees don’t realize how useful voice prompts are until they start using them.
The GoRef provides voice notifications for:
- Successful pairing
- Volume adjustments
- Low battery warnings
Instead of guessing what the device is doing based on LED indicators, referees receive spoken feedback directly through the headset.
The FBIM does not include a voice prompt system and relies on visual indicators instead.
Voice Prompt Summary
| Feature | GoRef | FBIM |
|---|---|---|
| Pairing Prompts | Yes | No |
| Volume Prompts | Yes | No |
| Battery Warnings | Yes | No |
| Ease of Use | Excellent | Basic |
Battery Life
Battery capacity is one category where the FBIM takes the lead.
The GoRef uses a 500mAh battery, which is sufficient for normal match schedules and weekend competitions.
The FBIM features a larger 850mAh battery, providing longer operating time between charges.
For referees working multiple matches in a single day, the additional battery capacity may be attractive.
Battery Summary
| Feature | GoRef | FBIM |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 500mAh | 850mAh |
| Standard Match Use | Excellent | Excellent |
| Tournament Use | Good | Excellent |
Audio Quality
Both products feature CVC noise reduction and 3D sound technology.
In practical use, both systems deliver clear communication and effectively reduce background noise from spectators, wind, and match activity.
Most referees are unlikely to notice a significant difference in audio quality between the two systems.
Audio Summary
| Feature | GoRef | FBIM |
|---|---|---|
| CVC Noise Reduction | Yes | Yes |
| 3D Sound | Yes | Yes |
| Audio Clarity | Excellent | Excellent |
| Noise Control | Excellent | Excellent |
Headset and Charging Design
One interesting difference is how the headset connects to the communication unit.
The GoRef uses a standard 3.5mm headset connector. This makes replacement headsets easier to find and gives users more flexibility when selecting accessories.
The FBIM uses a Type-C headset connection. The same Type-C interface is also used for charging.
Some users prefer the simplicity of a single Type-C connection, while others prefer the flexibility of a standard 3.5mm headset jack.
Headset Design Summary
| Feature | GoRef | FBIM |
|---|---|---|
| Headphone Connector | 3.5mm | Type-C |
| Charging Port | Micro USB | Type-C |
| Replacement Headsets | Easy | More Limited |
| Accessory Compatibility | Excellent | Good |
Antenna Design
The two products also use different antenna designs.
The GoRef uses a built-in antenna design, which gives the unit a cleaner appearance and eliminates the risk of damaging an external antenna.
The FBIM uses an external antenna mounted on the outside of the device.
Both designs provide similar communication range, but some users prefer the simplicity and durability of a built-in antenna.
Antenna Summary
| Feature | GoRef | FBIM |
|---|---|---|
| Antenna Type | Built-in | External |
| Communication Range | 1200m | 1200m |
| Appearance | Cleaner | Traditional |
| Durability | Excellent | Good |
Wearing Design and Belt Clip Support
Both products are designed with referees in mind and support belt clip mounting.
This can be especially useful for volleyball referees and indoor sports officials who prefer attaching the communication unit directly to their belt.
The FBIM includes a rear mounting system and supports belt clips.
The GoRef also features a rear clip design and can be used with optional belt clip accessories, making it a practical choice for officials who prefer waist-mounted communication units.
Wearing Design Summary
| Feature | GoRef | FBIM |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Clip Design | Yes | Yes |
| Belt Clip Support | Yes | Yes |
| Volleyball Friendly | Excellent | Excellent |
| Waist Mounting | Yes | Yes |
Overall Value
Both products provide reliable referee communication at an affordable price.
The FBIM offers a larger battery and modern Type-C charging.
However, the GoRef adds several referee-friendly features that many officials use regularly, including microphone mute functionality, voice prompts, a standard 3.5mm headset connection, and a built-in antenna design.
For many referees, these practical features can make day-to-day use easier.
Value Summary
| Feature | GoRef | FBIM |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Advantage | No | Yes |
| Voice Prompts | Yes | No |
| Mic Mute | Yes | No |
| Headset Flexibility | Higher | Standard |
| Overall Features | More | Fewer |
Price Comparison
For many referees, price is one of the biggest factors when choosing a communication system.
While both the NOECI GoRef and EJEAS FBIM offer reliable full-duplex communication for up to four officials, there is a noticeable difference in pricing.
The NOECI GoRef is typically priced between US$99 and US$109 per unit, making it one of the most affordable referee communication systems on the market.
The EJEAS FBIM is usually priced at approximately US$149 per unit.
This means the GoRef can save referees around US$40โ50 per unit while still providing the same four-user full-duplex communication, Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, CVC noise reduction, 3D sound technology, and 1200-meter communication range.
For referee associations purchasing multiple sets, the savings can become substantial.
Price Comparison Summary
| Feature | NOECI GoRef | EJEAS FBIM |
|---|---|---|
| Unit Price | US$99โ109 | US$149 |
| Max Users | 4 | 4 |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 | 5.1 |
| Communication Range | 1200m | 1200m |
| Voice Prompts | Yes | No |
| Microphone Mute | Yes | No |
| Value for Money | Excellent | Good |
When comparing features against cost, the GoRef offers exceptional value. In addition to being more affordable, it includes useful referee-focused features such as voice prompts and one-touch microphone mute, which are not available on the FBIM.
Final Conclusion
The FBIM’s larger 850mAh battery is a clear advantage for referees who prioritize longer operating time.
However, the GoRef offers several practical features that improve the overall referee experience, including one-touch microphone mute, voice prompts, a standard 3.5mm headset connection, and a built-in antenna design.
If battery capacity is your top priority, the FBIM’s larger 850mAh battery may be appealing.
If you’re looking for the best balance of price, features, and usability, the NOECI GoRef stands out. With a price of just US$99โ109 per unit, voice prompts, microphone mute functionality, a standard 3.5mm headset connection, and the same 1200-meter communication range, it offers outstanding value for football referees, volleyball officials, and referee associations alike.
For most referees seeking an affordable and feature-rich communication system, the NOECI GoRef is our recommended choice.