Best Headset Reviews

Headset Brands and Types

If you work in the customer service industry, make calls in the car, or just talk on the phone a lot, you need a headset to keep your hands free. Headsets can be connected to a phone, computer, or cell phone for a variety of purposes. One style or type of headset might be more suitable than another, depending on how you intend to use the headset, so do your research. Popular headset brands include Logitech, Motorola, Jabra, Nokia, Sennheiser, and many more. Take a look at the types below to determine which kind might be right for you.

• Behind the Head – wrap around from behind the head

• Ear Buds – popular ear plug type for single or double ear operation

• Over the Ear – used for single ear hook operation, often wireless
  

• Over the Head – typical headphone style, used for single or double ear operation

• Versatile – can be used like any of the four other styles

Considerations and Features

When deciding on a headset, consider which of the available features will be useful to you. Features and considerations include:

• Cord vs Wireless: Traditional headsets have a cord attached to the phone or amplifier, which can be cumbersome.  If you need to move around a lot or talk in the car, you probably need a wireless headset equipped with Bluetooth for maximum mobility.
  

• Cushion: Does the headset have sufficient padding around the earpiece and any bands?

• Microphone: The quality of the mic will determine how well your voice is heard.
  

• Ear Hook: Ensure that it is comfortable and not intrusive.

• Toggle Switches: Used for controlling headset functions, toggle switches are often located on the earpiece itself.
  

• Mute Button: To avoid unwanted transmission, a mute button is a key feature.
  

• Ear Buds: If you go for ear buds, make sure they are comfortable and fit your ear canal properly. Ear buds are less intrusive than other types, but can often be less comfortable without the right fit.
  

• Behind the Head: This type of headset moves less and is often good for driving or riding a bike because you tend to hear more of the ambient noise around you.

• Over the Head: This style connects over the top of the head with a cushioned strap. They eliminate noisy environment sounds,  but tend to resonate sound more which result in reduced quality sound.

• Over the Ear: Usually one-ear operation, most often wireless. This less restrictive arrangement lets in ambient noise and keeps your ears from getting too hot.
  

• Frequency Range: Humans hear 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz - anything advertised outside this range may only be felt and will not contribute much to the quality of the sound.
  

Range of Prices

Prices range from less than $20 to $460 and sometimes more. Once you have decided on a budget range compare the available headsets within that range for features and comfort.

Buying Headsets

Once you have narrowed your headphones choices and chosen a style that is right for your purposes, head to a store and test your options. Look for good construction for a headset that will last, a comfortable fit, and compatibility with your phone or computer. Testing the quality of sound may be difficult in a store, but you can check other customer reviews to see how the headset holds up to real-life use.