Choosing the perfect headset requires careful consideration to ensure the tech aligns with your work requirements. While audio quality is important, having the right features to stay connected and comfortable is crucial for a productive day.
We connected with Lauren Evans, Head of Technology Solutions at Winc, who shared her top five recommendations for selecting the right headset.
“With hybrid working and learning well established, having the right headset is more than a convenience, it’s a necessity. Whether you’re joining Teams meetings, attending virtual classes, or working from home, your headset plays a crucial role in helping you stay focused, communicate clearly and stay comfortable,” shared Lauren.
1. Consider the role of your headset.
If you primarily use your headset for work-related tasks such as virtual meetings or calls, prioritise features like a high-quality microphone for clear communication and effective noise cancellation to minimise distractions from your surroundings.
“Think about how often and how long you use your headset, as well as the type of role you have. For example, a call centre team member might prefer a Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) or wired headset over a Bluetooth headset. On the other hand, someone who values flexibility may prefer the convenience of Bluetooth,” says Lauren.
One recommended corded device for those in customer experience roles or similar is the Logitech H390 USB Headset with Noise-Cancelling Mic, which enables clear and reliable internet calls instantly, while offering a 2.33m cable length so you can stand up and stretch during long conversations.
2. Switch on productivity anywhere wirelessly with longevity.
A wireless headset enables employees to move freely around their workplace without being tethered to their desks.
“Eliminating the use of cords helps to freely adapt to any workspace without being cabled to a USB port. Many wireless headsets also offer a range of up to 30 metres, meaning you can continue speaking while heading to the nearest printer or moving away from a noisy space without carrying all your devices,” says Lauren.
The Jabra Evolve2 65 Flex headset, which features a foldable design, is a suitable choice to go completely wireless with up to 20 hours talk time or 32 hours music time. Its collapsible headband and slim earcups fit easily in small bags with plug and play functionality to jump onto a call or meeting within seconds.
3. Noise cancelling to match your working environment.
If you feel like you’re competing with background noise, it’s important to use a headset with inbuilt noise cancelling features.
“Noise cancellation helps filter out background noise, ensuring your voice is clear and giving you confidence that your audience or team members can understand you. It’s important to check whether your device uses Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which reduces background noise by using inverse sound waves to cancel it out, while non-ANC devices rely on the headset’s design to block out sound,” says Lauren.
The Jabra Engage 75 SE Wireless DECT Stereo Headset can assist as it’s designed for open offices or busy homes, with professional-grade noise isolation.
4. Ensure your headset is compatible with your apps.
If your workplace uses Microsoft Teams as its default communication tool, then opting for a Microsoft Teams certified headset will offer a more streamlined and efficient experience.
“Using a Microsoft Teams certified headset will enable you to make the most of all features and functionality, including self-adjusting to meet audio performance standards,” says Lauren.
Consider the Poly Plantronics Blackwire 3320 UC Stereo Corded Headset USB-C which is certified for Teams and ZOOM with intuitive call control.
5. AI enabled and ready to assist.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now being offered in many headsets and can automatically optimise features for you.
“AI is helping to understand your headset usage by adjusting itself to ensure superior sound quality, detecting the need for noise cancelling by adjusting accordingly and improving general comfort such as volume control and more. Some even offer microphone enhancements to help improve the clarity of your voice in its delivery,” says Lauren.
Winc has the latest Technology Essentials to make communicating via a headset an instant success. View our complete list of headsets here.
