Early this year the COVID-19 pandemic forced businesses to rethink their day-to-day operations in order to keep staff safe and well. Today, while some may have returned to the office most are still conducting their meetings virtually via platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams. It’s the safer option for sure even if the team is physically back in the office, and let’s be honest, there’s a certain freedom in being able to mute yourself and continue your work during a portion of the meeting that may not apply to you (or during one of those “this could have been an email” meetings).
One thing to come out of this new way of working is the realisation that not all equipment is created equal. Of course everyone already knows that not all office paper is the same, or that some notebooks are far superior to others for whatever reason, and of course everyone is always acutely aware of a dodgy computer, but we’ve never really had to put too much thought in to the tech accessories that support us day to day in the office. The most glaringly urgent search right now is the one for the right headset.
Can’t I Just use my Headphones?
Even though you may still be a lonely team of one at home right now, odds are that when you do return to the office the virtual meetings will continue, so a headset that has been specifically optimised for busy office environments is your best bet for true productivity. While the headphones that came with your mobile phone are fine for a short while, or for the occasional Zoom call with your Mum, for any real video conferencing you’ll want to invest in something that can do the heavy lifting and provide you with features like hearing protection and noise cancelling features.
Noise-cancelling Headsets
Noise-cancelling headsets have always been touted as the ideal for noisy, open plan office but they’re also a life-saver for anyone working from home with housemates/kids/partners/dogs/the gardener outside. They do exactly as the name suggests, they are designed to block out background noise while you work, making it much easier to focus on what you’re doing. Passive noise cancellation filters out high-frequency noise, higher end models even incorporate something called active noise cancellation which is the use of tiny microphones to pick up ambient noise and generate an “anti-noise” signal, actively countering low-frequency sounds. Noise-cancelling headsets are also great for listening to music when you’re not on a call.
Wired Headsets
Wired headsets are great if you’re someone who doesn’t like to have to think too much about your accessories, or if you’re not so great at forward planning. Because they plug directly in to your computer via USB or 3.5mm port you can start talking in seconds, no need to worry about running out of battery or your call dropping out. You can get wired headsets in either mono (one ear) or duo (two ear) versions depending on your preference, and most models are comfortable enough to wear all day. Clever built-in noise-cancelling microphones will ensure that the person/people you’re talking to will only hear your voice and not the noise going on around you.
Wireless Headsets
Going for a wireless option means more freedom during work calls, with a wireless range of up to 100meters you’re free to move around, make a sandwich, or do some stretches, all while on a call. Wireless headsets use Bluetooth or DECT technology to connect to your computer, laptop, smartphone, or tablet with most models able to connect to multiple devices at the same time, allowing you to switch between making calls on your phone to your work PC. You can choose between mono (one ear) or duo (two ear) versions depending on your preference.
Wearing Style
Headsets are split in to a few different categories when it comes to wearing styles and it can make it a little confusing when shopping online. Here’s a rundown of which is which:
OVER-EAR
Over-ear headsets sit over the entire ear, because of this they’re able to block out most noise but they can get pretty uncomfortable when worn for long periods, and they can heat up too. They’re the kind of headset that would work well if you’re seated for long periods.
ON-EAR
On-ear headsets sit on top of the ear. They’re an easy option that provide good noise cancellation in some cases, though it’s not their “strength”. They’re more comfortable to wear than over-ear but can also get warm after prolonged use (but to a lesser extent than over-ear).
IN-EAR
In-ear headsets are pretty self explanatory, you can get them as a true wireless option OR with the neckband or wire to connect the buds (perfect for people who are prone to losing things). These are great for those on-the-go but don’t hold up against the others microphone wise because they don’t have the dedicated boom arm.
In the end it really comes down to personal needs and preference. When choosing a headset for work take a moment to have a good think about what else you’ll be using it for, other than work calls, like listening to music or even just shutting out some of the noise around you. While some headsets are designed specifically for calls and calls only (like the headsets used in call centres) office headsets should work well for you in your video conferences, as well as letting you catch up on the latest episode of your favourite podcast in between calls. It’s all about that work/life balance.
