The Best Phone Headsets with Microphones
Multi-tasking in modern-day office life can be a hassle if you're tied down to traditional phones. Headsets with microphones are crucial for those of us that can't stop typing just because a co-worker, client, or boss jumps in for a quick chat or long explanation. The standard style of headset is still the most reliable option for offering clear input and output. If however, this design is a bit outdated for your tastes, improvements in microphone pickup sensitivity allow for even more muted configurations with recessed mics and smaller earbuds. Whatever your preference, our top headsets are power-packed to keep you in constant communication throughout business meetings cold calls alike.
Mpow 071 USB Headset
Catch every call
Headphones for work, more than anything, need to be reliable and easy to use. Mpow’s 071 USB headset takes the guesswork out of setup and provides crystal clear audio. Unlike the traditional headset layout, the 071 has two earmuffs for proper cushioning and complete immersion for conference calls and capture the flag matches. While we understand the drawback of not having an open ear at all times, this headset slides on easily and can be muted at the push of a button. If you’re a conduit of information between different departments, the 071 USB headset will drown out unwanted background noise when you need to and give your voice confidence and clarity when you speak.
Pros:
- Microphone only picks up sound from one direction
- Noise-reduction sound card drowns out ambient noise
- Great value for the price
Cons:
- The adjustable headband could be more heavily padded for comfort
Mpow HC6 USB Headset with Microphone
Communicate with clarity
The HC6 headset by Mpow is a trusty device that delivers value to frequent callers and gamers on a budget. Customer service teams can benefit greatly from this accessory because of the one-touch muting and generous cord length. While these earphones are noise-canceling, the fit is more on-ear than over-ear. Regardless, this versatile unit allows you to choose your microphone side of preference, offers compatibility across countless devices, and sports a soft faux leather finish that makes irritation a thing of the past.
Pros:
- Available in black, blue, gold, and navy
- Offers vocal playback mode
- Almost ten feet in total length
Cons:
- The attached sound controls only work with the USB plugin
Mpow BH323A Single-Sided USB Headset
Small yet sensational sound
If you need to equip a small call center on a budget, the slimmed-down single-sided USB headset by Mpow will fit your needs. This model is born for quieter offices or warehouses where staying in contact with your surroundings is just as important as the phone call. The BH323A features a plush faux-leather ear muff that won’t overheat with all-day wear, as well as two connection options. Managers on the go and drivers on the road will benefit immediately from the intuitive setup and feather-light construction.
Pros:
- Available in black or gray
- Compatible with all popular operating systems
- Adjustable headband for the perfect fit
Cons:
- The sound quality may not be enough for loud environments
Plantronics Voyager 5200 Wireless Headset
Chat on the run
The Voyager 5200 by Plantronics is an overpowered headset in an undersized package. While the miniaturized microphone may look like its cause for concern, this incredible hardware has a remarkable pickup range. The advanced pickup technology will resist wind and background noise while giving you a battery that lasts the entire working day. Not always near your cell phone or computer? The Voyager 5200 will give you nearly 100 feet of unencumbered wireless connectivity. All in all, if you want a luxurious fit that can seamlessly switch devices and fit in your pocket, Plantronics covers all the bases.
Pros:
- Smart technology pauses audio when taken off ear
- The microphone is reinforced with stainless steel
Cons:
- Lower max volume than previous models
BlueParrott B550-XT Voice-Controlled Bluetooth Headset
An exquisite earful
From IT support centers to large brokerage firms, communication at a moment’s notice are essential during quickly evolving business decisions. BlueParrot’s Bluetooth headset provides unmatched comfort in the face of rigorous manual labor. First, the B550-XT is incredibly versatile because it can operate anywhere from below-freezing tundra to the scorching desert and provide instant access to your digital assistant. The eponymous BlueParrot button can be customized with the app to provide you with tons of useful features, including voice memos, speed dialing, or muting.
Pros:
- Overear noise-canceling headphone delivers top call clarity
- The battery boasts 24 hours of call time and 400 hours of stand by
- Stylish and professional-looking
Cons:
- Quite expensive but well worth it
Frequently Asked Questions
When did headsets become popular?
Headsets were originally theorized over a century ago in California at Stanford University. Nathaniel Baldwin, a student at the time, was looking for a client for his ingenious invention. While he was ultimately successful, this was thanks to the US Army recognizing their importance and purchasing the first produced batch. The first workers that would make headsets popular were switchboard operators for Bell Systems, an American telecommunications company.
How close does the microphone have to be to the mouth for clear pickup?
To reduce feedback from breathing, always keep the microphone below or to the side of your mouth. At most, microphones should be three inches from your mouth for a clear, undistorted sound. Since most headsets are unidirectional, the holes in the mic must face your face as well.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.