There are headsets for businesses of all shapes and sizes. No matter what your company does, we’re confident that you’ll find a headset model that fits all your needs perfectly.
But finding the best office headsets can be tricky. With so many options out there, choosing the right features and functionalities is no easy task. Luckily, Headsets.com is here to point you in the right direction.
The features you’ll want for your business headset(s) depend on many different aspects of your company. We’ve compiled a list of factors to keep in mind for all businesses that are searching for headsets for the office. Use this article to evaluate your needs and end up with the device(s) that maximize your workplace’s productivity.
Compatibility
One consideration when you’re picking out your business headsets is the devices you’ll be connecting to. Some companies utilize more commercial or industrial devices (like corded desk phones and desktop computers). Others opt for things like laptops and smartphones instead. Your business might even utilize both categories!
If you've got multiple types of office technologies to connect to, you’ll want to pick out office headsets that are both widely compatible and can easily switch between devices. A common way to achieve both of those functionalities is through Bluetooth. Bluetooth capabilities mean a couple things:
-
In addition to a corded connection to your phone or computer, you can establish a wireless connection to your Bluetooth-enabled devices (like cell phones and tablets). Switching between gadgets is often possible with just the push of a button.
-
Because the majority of laptops and smartphones on the market today can connect via Bluetooth, even if your team uses different types of devices, they’ll all be able to connect to their headsets. Apple and Android, Mac and PC… people on either side of a device debate can find common ground over a Bluetooth compatible headset.
If you need an office headset that's compatible with a wide variety of workplace devices, from Bluetooth smartphones to USB computers, check out the Leitner LH370.
Softphone compatibility
For many businesses, investing in desk phones for every employee just isn’t worth the time or money. Rather than trying to establish communication through one standardized device, a lot of businesses will opt for softphones.
Softphones are apps that provide functionality like voice, video, and conference calling, and they’re perfect for use on devices like laptops, cell phones, and tablets. However, not all headsets are fully compatible with them. If you want to ensure full functionality - remote answering, incoming call notifications, etc. - make sure that the business headsets you choose are certified compatible with the business phone system you use.
The Executive Pro Overture Headset is a great option for connecting to softphones. It's got a USB connector, and it integrates well with most systems to allow for maximum functionality.
Intuitive functionality
Maximize the amount of time you’re using your headset, and minimize the amount of time you spend getting it to work. If your company doesn’t have an IT department to guide you through complicated headset functionality, or if you just want to ensure a super easy headset experience, opt for an office headset with a simple setup and design.
When it comes to ease of use, the Executive Pro Harmony does the trick. You simply plug it in to your phone, and you’re good to go. It also comes with a Quick Disconnect cord, so unplugging from your workstation is easy as well.
In-person communication
If your business relies on consistent in-person communication during the workday, we recommend you go with a single-ear office headset. These models will allow you to take calls while keeping an ear free to listen to what’s going on around you. Sound like what you need? Check out the Leitner LH280.
However, if the employees at your company tend to work more independently, dual-ear office headsets could be a good fit. They allow for a more immersive listening experience that’s great when the calls you’re taking are the main thing you’re listening to. If this is in line with your office, take a look at the Leitner LH275.
Remote vs. in-person vs. hybrid
If your business is operating either fully remotely or fully in person, keeping your headset in one place won’t be an issue. However, if your office has a hybrid situation going on, you might want to opt for a headset that can easily be transported from one location to another.
All headsets are fairly light, so you shouldn’t have any trouble carrying them, but a complicated setup and disconnect process can be a hassle when you’re moving back and forth. It’s also easy to forget to plug a headset in to charge when it spends a lot of time in the bag you take to and from the office.
If work time is split between living rooms and cubicles, look for headsets like the Jabra Engage 75. It’s a simple setup made even easier by Bluetooth capabilities, which will remember the devices you’ve connected to and avoid a prolonged connection process. It can also convert between a wireless and corded setup; if you forget to hook it up to the charging base, the cord will come to the rescue.
Headset longevity/maintenance requirements
When you’re dealing with a high volume of business headsets (like at a call center), minimum maintenance is a must. The more times people need to call product support, get a replacement part, or trade in their device for a new one, the more time and money are being wasted.
One way to make sure an office or call center headset is reliable is by checking its warranty. Usually, a longer warranty is indicative of a company’s confidence in their product’s longevity. A manufacturer isn’t going to promise long-time malfunction repairs if it anticipates having to make those repairs regularly.
For an office/call center headset that won’t require regular maintenance or replacement, check out the Leitner LH270. Like all Leitner products, it’s got a 5-year warranty backing it up. It’s also our bestselling headset, and it got that status for a reason: it works well, consistently, and for a long time.
Standardized devices
Say you're buying for a call center, so you’re providing headsets to a lot of people at once. It can be a hassle to figure out exactly what configuration everyone wants. It’s far easier to be able to select one device and order it in bulk for the whole team.
That being said, you don’t want to compromise employees’ comfort. To order in bulk and make sure everyone’s preferences are accommodated for, consider a convertible headset for a call center. These models can be worn in multiple ways - either on the ear or over the head. Wearers can choose what works and feels best for them.
A convertible device like the Sennheiser OfficeRunner could be perfect for you. It can go from an over-the-head to an on-the-ear configuration easily, so it’ll suit everyone at your company, no matter their preferences.
Maximum noise cancellation
If you’re in a setting like a call center, there’s bound to be consistent commotion. With large groups of people talking on the phone in a relatively small space, you’ll want to make sure that people on the other end of the calls aren’t disturbed by the background noise.
Noise-canceling microphones are a necessity for call center headsets. They’ll temper any loud sounds behind you, so the person you’re chatting with can concentrate fully on you instead of a noisy office.
If maximum noise cancellation is a must, consider the Leitner LH245. It’s a corded business headset that Customers love for the crisp sound quality. Whoever you’re talking to will hear you loud and clear.
One size doesn’t always fit all
Take your business’s needs into account to find the best headset for the office. Not every company is the same, but there’s a business headset out there for almost everyone. If you want to chat with a Headset Advisor to talk through options, don’t hesitate to reach out! Just call 1-800-HEADSETS (432-3738) or email info@headsets.com.