It is a well known fact that office headsets significantly boost productivity in the workplace. When trying to choose PC headsets it is difficult to work out what features you do and don’t need, so Onedirect have compiled an PC Headset Guide to help you decide.
Corded or cordless?
A corded headset requires a USB/ 3.5mm headset jack / QD connection. Corded headsets have the best audio quality given that they’re connected directly to your computer. With a corded headset you needn’t worry about charging your headset and there is easy plug-and-play PC installation. However, they do limit your mobility.
A cordless headset requires a base. It connects via a USB connection to your computer and the cordless headset allows you to move more freely. If you miss a lot of calls while you’re away from your desk or you require a certain amount of mobility then you are better suited to a cordless headset.
Monaural or binaural?
Monaural headsets have one earpiece that provides sound. They are ideal if:
- You’re in an environment that isn’t very noisy
- You want to remain aware of what’s going on around you
Binaural headsets have two earpieces, like a normal pair of headphones. They are ideal if:
- You work in a noisy environment
- You want full focus on your calls
Optimised for Skype for Business
Some headsets are specifically optimised for Skype for Business (previously Microsoft Lync). If your job involves consistent use of this program, or videoconferencing, then its worth looking into a headset tailored for these needs.
What you need to look for is a UC or MS headset. UC stands for Unified Communications and encompasses all programs used in the office for professional communication. MS simply means that the headset is compatible with all UC programs but specifically optimised for Skype for Business. Your experience is maximised through better audio quality.
Versatility
Do you want to be able to connect your headset to multiple devices? The answer is easy – if your headset is corded you just need to buy a bottom cable that is compatible with each of your devices. Otherwise, Bluetooth technology allows you to easily switch between all of your Bluetooth compatible devices.
Our recommendations
BEST VALUE Corded Headset: Sennheiser PC 8
- Noise-cancelling microphone
- Plug-and-play USB
- Comfortable
Also available in MONO.
Corded Skype for Business Optimised Headset: Jabra Evolve 30 II MS
- Compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone and tablet
- Easy plug-and-play installation
- Comfortable for long use
Also available as MONO UC, DUO UC and MONO MS.
Mono Cordless Skype for Business optimised headset: Jabra Pro 930 MS
- Optimised for UC
- Supports 4-way conferencing
- Up to 120m cordless range
Also available as DUO MS.
Cordless Bluetooth UC optimised headset: Jabra Evolve 65 MS
- Bluetooth v3.0 with a range of up to 30m
- Comes with a USB Bluetooth adaptor
- Noise-cancelling and wideband audio
Also available in DUO. This headset is compatible with VoIP softphone, mobile phones and tablets.
Multi-device, cordless Bluetooth headset: Plantronics Savi W710 
- Bluetooth range of up to 120m
- Up to 9 hours talk time
- Supports 3-way conferencing
Also available OPTIMISED for Skype for Business.
