DECT stands for Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications. It's a secure wireless technology that's used to connect cordless phones to other devices, usually accessories or a base.

Before this telecommunication standard was implemented in headsets, it was used exclusively for cordless landline phone service. It allowed the wireless phone to connect to the traditional landline phone line by tethering the handset to the base. Even though headsets and wireless landline phones are two totally different technologies, they use DECT in the same way.

DECT is the technology that's used in a non-Bluetooth wireless headset. It's characterized by the way that it communicates through a base. Instead of information transferring directly from your phone to your DECT headset, the phone gives information to the base which gives information to the headset.

DECT headsets

If a DECT device sounds like something you'd like to implement in your workplace, Headsets.com has multiple devices that utilize it.

Leitner® Premium Lite LH270

• Connects to desk phones and computers (Mac and Windows)
• Ultra noise-canceling microphone and CleanSound in speaker for crisp, clear conversation
• UltraFlex Headband for maximum comfort
• Super long 5-year warranty and lifetime product support beyond that
• Also has dual-ear and on-the-ear models with all the same great specs

Leitner Premium Plus LH570

• Utilizes all the same features as the Premium Lite models (ultra noise-canceling microphone, connections, CleanSound, and even the same super-long 5-year warranty!)
• Integrated busy light to limit interruptions and alert you when something in your headset changes
• Automatic pairing to make it super easy to swap headsets
• Improved design that feels great and looks even better on the desk and on your head
• Also has a dual-ear model available

How does DECT compare to Bluetooth?

DECT and Bluetooth serve relatively similar purposes. They both allow devices to communicate securely without any cords or cables. However, to understand what DECT is vs. what Bluetooth is, there are some important distinctions:

Device compatibility:

• DECT: The best way to summarize device compatibility for these two technologies is this: DECT is the communication system used by wireless headsets that aren't Bluetooth enabled. That means that you’ll see DECT technology implemented in any device that uses a base as a point of communication between two connected devices.

• Bluetooth: The standard for device compatibility is simply that every piece of technology you’re connecting must have Bluetooth incorporated into it. The exception is devices with ports for a Bluetooth adapter. It’s possible to find, for example, a USB-A connector that will give a computer Bluetooth connection capabilities.

Security:

DECT and Bluetooth both encrypt the information that's being transferred between your devices. Essentially, they scramble all of the data that's being transmitted to make it almost impossible for outside parties to intercept the communication. The level of encryption varies between each of these connection types.

• DECT: 64-bit encryption

• Bluetooth: 128-bit encryption

This may seem like a substantial difference. In some situations, it is! But at the end of the day, for common workplace use, both types of encryption are probably going to do the trick in terms of keeping your data secure.

Range:

• DECT: The DECT method of communication between devices allows for a pretty significant range. DECT technology tends to maintain connection from up to 300 to 400 feet away.

• Bluetooth: These devices average up to 30 to 35 feet.

Why would I use DECT?

Interestingly, North America is one of the only places in the world that doesn't have DECT technology as a standard. It establishes secure connections across large ranges and produces quality audio, which is why it is completely (or almost completely) universal across Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia. In the US, radio frequency standards are different, so DECT hasn’t been universally adopted. However, it's available, and it's a great choice for many people. Here are some reasons why you might want to use DECT wireless connectivity technology:

Confidentiality:

You tend to discuss confidential matters on phone calls for work. If you want to make sure that sensitive information stays between you and the person on the other end of the line, it's important to make sure that your connection is secure. If you were to use a public Wi-Fi network or any other type of public connection, your data would be far easier to intercept. DECT, on the other hand, uses encryption and authentication algorithms to ensure maximum privacy on your calls.

Mobility:

You care about being mobile throughout the workday. If you are the type that likes to take a stroll around the office building, and you don't want to be confined to one room during the workday, DECT technology could be a good move. Since DECT headsets have a few hundred feet worth of range, you'll be able to explore freely without losing your connection.

Quality:

You want superior audio quality. DECT operates on a frequency different from any other wireless technologies (like Wi-Fi). That means that the data being transferred via DECT won't get obstructed by anything else on the network. No interference means more effective device-to-device communication and better sounding audio.

We’re here when you need us

If you need more clarification on what DECT is, how it compares to Bluetooth, and whether or not it's something you need, our Headset Advisors are more than happy to talk you through it. Give us a call at 1-800-HEADSETS (432-3738) or send us an email at info@headsets.com.