Business headsets are specialised audio devices designed for communication in professional environments, optimised for calls, video conferencing, and can be integrated with communication platforms. This guide is designed to help you understand the jargon behind business headsets, so you can be confident in your purchasing decision. We will be answering the most common questions and defining the different terms used to describe features of the headsets.
What’s the Difference Between Active and Passive Noise Cancellation?
Active noise cancellation (for the user) uses built-in microphones to detect sound waves and neutralise (cancel out) background noise digitally, whereas passive noise cancellation uses physical design elements like cushioned earcups to block external sound.
Noise Cancellation: The technology that reduces unwanted ambient sounds during calls or video meetings.
How does Active Noise Cancellation Work?
Active Noise Cancellation works by using a microphone to detect ambient sound waves, which are then analysed by the internal chipset to generate a new, opposite sound wave (“anti-noise”) which is then played through the headset’s speakers to cancel out the unwanted background noise.
How does Passive Noise Cancellation work?
Passive Noise Cancellation uses the physical design and materials on of the headset to create a barrier that blocks unwanted background noise. A tight seal is created with the headset cushions or earbuds which create the physical barrier, reducing the volume of ambient noise.
What is a Noise-Cancelling Mic?
A noise-cancelling microphone filters out unwanted background noise from surroundings so that the headset user’s voice is prioritised for clearer communication. Therefore, the recipient hears you more clearly.
Pros & Cons of ANC vs PNC:
| Feature | ANC (Active) | PNC (Passive) |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Blocks up to 30dB of noise; best for open offices | Cheaper; no battery drain; natural audio |
| Cons | Higher cost; battery dependent; slight processing lag | Less effective in noisy environments |
| Ideal For | Remote workers, hybrid professionals | Quiet offices, budget-conscious teams |
Can Active/Passive Noise Cancellation affect pricing?
Active Noise Cancelling headsets are generally more expensive due to the advanced digital technology that is used in the headsets. However, pricing can vary depending on other features of the headset and brand.
What is the Difference Between Wireless & Wired Connectivity?
Wireless headsets use technology such as Bluetooth or DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications) which do not require a physically connected cable to the device being used. However, wired headsets connect via a 3.5 mm jack, or most commonly, a USB cable to the device.
What are the different Wireless Technologies?
- Bluetooth: Uses sound waves to connect to other devices such as phones or computers. The devices must be paired to establish a connection. Bluetooth is used in shorter distances between the paired devices; the average Bluetooth connection distance is 10 meters (33 feet).
- DECT – Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications is a wireless technology which includes encryption to protect calls from unauthorised access by using its own dedicated frequency bands, which reduces interference from other devices. DECT devices provide a significant range of up to and above 100 metres.
Pros & Cons of Wireless vs Wired:
| Feature | Wireless | Wired |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Mobility, clutter-free, softphone-ready | Stable audio, lower cost, zero charging |
| Cons | Battery limits, higher price | Limited range, less flexibility |
| Best For | Hybrid workers, executives | Call centers, desk-based roles |
Can Connectivity Affect Pricing?
Wireless business headsets are usually more expensive than wired headsets as they use more advanced technology to function.
Which Wearing Style is Best: Mono, Duo, or Convertible?
Mono: A mono headset refers to a headset with one earcup.
Duo: Duo headsets are headsets with two earcups.
Convertible: Convertible headsets allow you to switch between mono, duo, or behind the-ear styles.
MONO (Monaural)
DUO (Binaural)
Convertible
How Do Material Quality and Ergonomics Affect Comfort?
High-quality materials and an ergonomic design prevent pressure fatigue and ensure long-term comfort for users who must wear headsets for long periods.
Materials
- Memory foam- Comfort + Durability.
- Leatherette- Premium Feel and retains heat.
- Fabric- Breathable and good for warmer climates.
Ergonomics in business headsets refers to the design and features that help improve comfort and reduce fatigue for long calls/meetings.
Weight can also play a big factor in how comfortable a headset feels. A lighter headset can help reduce fatigue and make it more comfortable for the user over an extended time. A PubMed-listed ergonomics study found that for every 33 g increase in headset weight (in the 500 g–600 g range), participants’ comfortable wear time dropped by an average of 11 minutes—highlighting how heavier headsets reduce comfort significantly.
How to choose a headset compatible with my communication platform?
The headset you choose should be compatible with the communication platform you use for work. Brands like HP Poly, Yealink, EPOS, and Jabra offer models with UC (Unified Communications) and Microsoft teams certifications, which are made to easily integrate into your preferred software.
Teams Certified Headsets: These headsets have been designed and tested to allow seamless integration with the Microsoft Teams Platform. This means the calls you receive will be automatically synced to the headset's speakers. Therefore, no manual connection is needed.
Unified Communications: Headsets designed for Zoom, Webex, and Google Meet ensure integration without manual configuration.
Features of Teams & UC Certified Headsets:
- Native Buttons – One-click mute/unmute, answer, and volume control.
- Enhanced audio quality
- Plug-and-play setup
- Auto-optimised for the platform
Which Headset Works Best for Your Work Environment?
Headsets should be selected based on the volume of background noise, mobility, and communication platform needs.
Call Centers
The best type of headsets for call centre workers are headsets with wired connectivity and Noise cancelling mics.
Call centre agents usually work in high noise environments where a noise cancelling mic would be ideal to block out the ambient sound for a clearer call. As calls are often taken back-to-back, a wired connection would be more ideal for a call centre agent.
Recommendations for call centres:
Executives/managers
The best headset for executives/managers are those with ANC and professional aesthetics.
High-quality audio is essential, and ANC ensures focus in an open office. Premium designs will reflect professionalism.
Recommendations for executives/managers:
Hybrid/On-the-go Workers
A wireless headset or earbuds and multi-device pairing are ideal for someone who is a hybrid professional switching between home/office environments. A lightweight design is also crucial to make the headset more comfortable during transport and portable.
Recommendations for Hybrid/On-the-go workers:
Remote Workers
The best type of headsets for a remote professional are wireless headsets with a Teams or Zoom certification and long battery life.
Remote workers tend to use communication software such as Microsoft Teams or Zoom to speak with colleagues from home and will benefit from a headset that can easily integrate with these systems.
Recommendations for Remote Workers
Sales Representatives
The best type of headset for sales reps are headsets with wireless, lightweight headsets with noise-cancelling mics.
Sales reps are often in office environments with other people and will benefit from a noise-cancelling microphone and a wireless headset will allow for more movement freedom.
Recommendations for Sales Representatives
Healthcare/Finance & Legal Professionals
Professionals who work with sensitive information should use headsets with DECT connectivity for encrypted calls.
DECT headsets allow for security and stable audio quality and longer ranges, which is ideal for high-privacy environments.
Recommendations for Healthcare, Legal & Finance Professionals
Still Unsure on Which Headset you need?
If you are still unsure about which headset is best for you, then feel free to contact us on 0844 854 6850 or email us at help@best4headsets.co.uk