What is a VoIP Headset?

No desk phone? No problem. An audio accessory compatible with Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) will leave you hands-free and help declutter your desk, whether you are working from home or the office.

A VoIP headset is built-in with a microphone to revolutionize comfort, boost your efficiency and improve customer satisfaction. And in some cases even spare you of the background noise. But with so many options available, choosing the perfect set isn’t always an easy task.

This quick guide covers types, features and benefits of VoIP headsets and helps you navigate the common pitfalls before you even get started.

What Do I Need to Know About VoIP Phone Headsets?

Just like any standard headsets, or headphones for that matter, there are plenty of options to choose from.

You can opt in for:

• An one-piece or two-piece ear headset
• An over the head or on the ear device
• A convertible option to fit changing needs

The right VoIP headset is all a matter of personal preference. The same rule applies to their size and padding.

There are certain specifications, however, that can help you filter out your options before deciding on more sophisticated features, such as the ones below:

Connectivity

To start off, the most important question is: what device and softphone do you need your VoIP headset to connect to?

Many manufacturers work only with specific devices and operating systems. That’s why checking the compatibility with your existing software and hardware is a must, otherwise you really are throwing your money away. You can find this information in the product listing.

Note If you’re planning on using the same headset at home and at work, you must check the compatibility with both.

Range

If you require extra mobility when talking to your clients, it will be good to consider your ideal range before making any further purchasing decisions.

Wireless headsets offer the option to step away from the device without losing connection. Whether it’s to move around during a presentation or just to stretch your legs, the range must be considered to avoid awkward interruptions.

Typically, Bluetooth headsets offer a 10 meter range, but it is possible to find options that allow a 30 meter radius too. If you require a greater range, it’s best to opt in for other wireless solutions that give you the freedom to step away as much as 120 meters away from the hardware you’re using.

Cost

There are a variety of options available, with the cheapest set starting at $9.85 on Amazon.

Price, however, usually reflects quality. Even if you aren’t a picky buyer looking for an extensive list of add-ons, you should still consider your options. By bumping your budget a little you will have access to more durable solutions that improve the call quality instead of damaging it.

Luckily, this doesn’t mean opting for a $400-set. There are many solutions at an affordable price that are equally friendly to the ear, as well as the pocket.

Features and Benefits

Improved Call Quality

Arguably, the most important thing to do on a VoIP call is to ensure its flawless audio quality. Nothing damages the rapport with the client more than poor connection and having to repeat yourself countless times.

One of the issues when taking a call directly from your device is that you have to ensure you are close to the mic, otherwise your client will have difficulty following the conversation.

With a headset, you don’t need to worry about this. You can adjust the mic adjacent to the headset at any point without interrupting the conversation. By splurging a little, you can also invest in a set that offers active noise cancellation and a noise canceling microphone to elevate the quality of the call further.

Stay on the Line

By upgrading to a VoIP headset, you can stay connected at all times. There is no more guessing who’s phone is ringing in a shared workspace or running towards the desk to quickly pick it up. Thanks to this over the head or on the ear piece, you can do that directly from where you are. Oh and the best part? Thanks to the controllers directly on the headsets such as a mute button, you can carry out certain functions directly from where you are.

Comfort

Probably one of the most appreciated advantages of a VoIP headset is the comfort that it brings to the user.

Frequent phone users are prone to chronic arm and neck pain due to awkward sitting positions during a long call or when attempting to multitask. By using this additional piece of equipment you can eliminate the pressure on the neck and posture, while your focus remains with the customer. By choosing the correct design or opting for a padded headband you can elevate your comfort to a new high.

Multitasking

Since your hands are free – you can also carry on with your tasks while taking a call. No more worrying if you’ve remembered all the details or sent over the document your client requested.

By switching to a headset, you can boost your efficiency and maximize the number of clients you can attend to. You can take notes, update CRM or forward over information while staying on the line without any delay and deliver quality service to your clients.

Privacy

Instead of using the speaker phones or the device speakers, you can keep conversation private by keeping your headset on. This feature is also ideal for a shared workspace, as you won’t have to disturb your colleagues again.

Types

Wired

Wired headsets are connected directly to the device via USB port or 3.5 mm audio-jack. While these may not be the most convenient option in terms of mobility, they are definitely one of the more reliable choices when it comes down to call quality, as they’re connected directly to the device. As long as there is a quality internet connection – corded headsets ensure that nothing will disrupt your phone calls, not even battery life.

Wireless

Wireless headsets don’t require additional wiring to be compatible with the device. Instead, they use a special adaptor to establish connection.
Wireless headsets transmit information via radio or infrared signals and offer a greater range than any other unwired alternative. The signal may get weaker when presented with obstructions (walls, heavy furniture, etc.), however on average it sustains a radius of over 100+ meters.

USB

USB doesn’t always mean tied to your device. Instead, some manufacturers offer the option to go unwired, substituting USB cable with a USB adaptor instead. It’s plugged into your computer to provide a hands-free wireless experience for your VoIP communication.

With a USB headset you can enjoy an average 30-meter radius away from the device. Please note, however, that not all of the devices have a USB port and it may not be compatible with your device.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth technology is one of the most popular options for connecting to a VoIP headset. It’s not only straightforward to use, but by using radio-frequency over short distances it offers exceptional mobility to its users. Today, the vast majority of devices are equipped with Bluetooth and compatibility shouldn’t be an issue.

It’s particularly convenient for mobile devices which are quickly becoming the go-to device for VoIP calls, especially in a remote work setup. As the smartphones don’t normally have a USB port and some of the newer models often omit the 3.5mm audio jack too, Bluetooth connectivity presents an easy alternative.

Plus, a Bluetooth set can be connected to multiple devices at once – your laptop, mobile phone and work PC. To switch a device you wont need to move an adaptor or adjust the wiring – it can be done in a click of a button.

How to Hook Up a Bluetooth Headset to a VoIP Phone?

Depending on the model these instructions may vary, but you can replicate these steps according to your Bluetooth device:

• Enable Bluetooth on your phone and make sure it is also switched on on your VoIP headset.
• From the list of available connections, choose the correct VoIP headsets to connect to and wait a minute before the devices have been synced.
• Now you are connected and are able to receive and make calls.
• When on the call, remember to stay within the given radius to ensure that there are no interruptions to the sound quality.

How to improve your VoIP headset connection?

In order to provide optimum quality, regularly conduct the following checks for the headset of choice:

Your Equipment

Regularly check that there are no physical damages to your headsets, as well as any other equipment that you are using for VoIP telephony.

Your Settings

Don’t forget to check your settings. Issues with sound properties and volume can often be quickly resolved by adjusting the settings accordingly.

New Updates

This doesn’t only apply to the headsets, but to all equipment used for VoIP. By installing the latest updates you make sure that your equipment functions well and avoids any unnecessary glitches.

So What Now?

A VoIP headset is an ideal purchase for anyone who conducts the majority of their business on the phone and wants to upgrade their VoIP system. It improves the quality of the call, while keeping in mind user’s comfort and efficiency driving customer satisfaction through the roof.

However, before choosing a quality headset, it is important that your operating system and hardware, as well as personal habits and preferences. From the way your headset looks, to how it connects and how much you would be willing to spend on it depends utterly on your own needs.

There is no one-fits-all solution, but luckily with the diverse range of options and reliable manufacturers everyone can find the best VoIP headset for their needs.