The headsets used in call centers need to be selected with a lot of care. The employees have to wear them for long hours, day after day, to answer calls. Moreover, with many people working in the same room, noise cancelation is a necessary feature.
At the same time, what one call center agent prefers may not be appropriate for others. Each call center employee has their own comfort level and requirements, to be productive at work. Whether it is a padded headband and wireless connectivity, or a cleaner microphone for HD voice clarity, headsets for call centers should tick all the boxes.
In this guide, we will talk about call center and conference call headsets in detail. We’ll also look at the 14 best call center and conference call headsets, and review them one by one. Our experts thoroughly checked and tried over 25 different call center and conference call headsets on the market to shortlist the following.
Roundup of the Best Headsets for Call Center
What Headsets Do Call Centers Use?
The main job of a call center agent is to make and answer as many calls as possible. Simultaneously, they have to close the pending tickets and help customers solutions to different issues. Therefore, having quality hardware is a must for call centers, to maintain their reputation and ensure complete customer satisfaction.
With numerous options to choose from, picking the best headsets for call center agents can get difficult. The wired and wireless headsets have their advantages and disadvantages. The price of headsets is another aspect. When you’ve to buy headsets in bulk, you’ll need to know how much your establishment can spend, isn’t it?
Things to Consider While Buying Call Center Headsets
While there are many aspects to consider when buying headsets for call centers, the following are the most important ones.
1. Noise Cancelation
Noise cancelation headsets are a necessity for call centers. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) models are rather expensive. However, you can opt for noise cancelation headsets that can be combined with third-party apps, to mute background noise and increase voice clarity.
2. Comfort
When call center employees use the headsets all day long, they need to feel comfortable wearing the piece for an extended period. Heavy, bulky, and clumsy models will give the opposite results. Lightweight and wireless headsets are a good option. And don’t forget padding to protect the ears.
3. Durability
This is an obvious point, isn’t it? When you invest a substantial amount to buy headsets for the team, you want the units to last for a decent time. The last thing any call center agent would want is a headset that breaks down in the middle of a conversation with the customer.
4. Design and Style
Headsets that are easy to set up and use, are a preferred choice, right? You can choose between behind-the-ear or over-the-ear headsets. Single-earpiece and dual-earpiece are other options, though most call centers opt for a dual earpiece, as it improves the audio quality.
5. Technology
Headsets with innovative additional features would be a bonus. Integration with other apps, stable connectivity (for wireless headsets), crisp audio, and a quality microphone are some features call centers headsets need to have to answer calls promptly and effectively.
Top 14 Call Center Headsets for Office Work and Customer Calls
The following are some of the best call center headsets available in the market:
1. Plantronics Voyager Focus UC B825 Headset
Best Overall Call Center Headset
- Excellent sound quality
- Crisp and clear mic quality
- Intuitive controls
- Durable and sturdy build
- Provides up to 12 hours of talk time in a single charge
- Reliable Bluetooth connectivity
- Rich bass and well-defined mids
- Slight drop in sound quality when using Bluetooth instead of the dongle
The Plantronics Voyager Focus UC B825 Headset is the best overall call center headset you can own. The call quality is great, and the mic is excellent. The best part is that the headsets alert you that you need to turn off the mute, thanks to smart sensor technology, in case you forget about it and start talking.
Firstly, the controls are easy to use. The battery life is decent, which is a plus for call center agents.
Secondly, the noise cancelation is subtle and works well. It’s not so much that you won’t feel suffocated over time. The noise cancelation is not as powerful as noise canceling headphones.
In conclusion, the Plantronics Voyager Focus UC B825 Headset has decent build quality and is comfortable for continuous use. It also feels really comfortable when you’re wearing glasses. However, once you get your headset, ensure you update the firmware. The firmware on the USB component and headset improves performance and sound quality. The mic quality is excellent. The mute function is well placed and convenient to use.
View on Amazon: Plantronics Voyager Focus UC B825 Headset
2. Sennheiser Consumer Audio SC 60 USB ML Headset
Best Headset for Conference Calls
- Adjustable boom arm
- Decent noise-canceling microphone
- Instantly connects with Windows 10
- Great for conference calls
- Comfortable ear cushions
- We did not experience any issues with this headset
Headsets by Sennheiser are great for conference calls and customer care meetings. Sennheiser Consumer Audio SC 60 USB ML Headset’s bendable boom arm allows you to adjust the mic at a comfortable position to make your voice sound open and thus, ensure clear calls.
Firstly, Sennheiser Consumer Audio SC 60 USB ML Headset is available at an affordable price for call center establishments.
Secondly, the headset is lightweight and can be connected to Windows PC with ease. The company offers a 2-year warranty on the headset.
In conclusion, the Sennheiser Consumer Audio SC 60 USB ML Headset has dual earpieces with noise reduction feature. The headset is designed for business use and delivers good call clarity. We hardly encountered any issues while using this headset. It is one of the nicest sounding headsets on our list. The integrated Microsoft Lync/Skype mute button works wonders during calls. The cord is too long but convenient.
View on Amazon: Sennheiser Consumer Audio SC 60 USB ML Headset
3. Jabra Evolve 65 UC Stereo Wireless Bluetooth Headset
Best Wireless Call Center Headset
- Up to 100 feet connectivity
- Works with Windows, Mac/ iOS, and Android
- Clear audio quality
- Decent battery life (14 hours of talk time)
- Issues with fitting for smaller head sizes
The Jabra Evolve 65 UC wireless headset is a great choice for call center agents who like to keep moving when answering customers’ calls. This wireless model makes it possible to stand and walk up to 100 feet from the device it’s paired with.
Firstly, we tried pairing the popular headset with different devices and were happy to note that the feature works well with Android, iOS/Mac, and Windows devices.
Secondly, reflexive noise cancellation does a satisfying job of reducing the unwanted background sounds for listening and speaking. However, we hoped the unmuting wouldn’t take as much time.
To conclude, the Jabra Evolve 65 UC Stereo Wireless Bluetooth Headset can pair with multiple devices and is ideal for call center agents who’re looking for a wireless experience. You can use it as both a wired or wireless headset. We did not experience any battery issues with this headset. Both the call and music sound quality are good. The noise-isolating ear pads are ideal for noisy spaces. This headset is comfortable for continuous use; however, you my experience slight ear heating during the summers. It comprises buttons for answering calls and adjusting the volume; they’re convenient to use.
View on Amazon: Jabra Evolve 65 UC Stereo Wireless Bluetooth Headset
4. Jabra Evolve 40 Professional Wired Headset
Best USB Skype Headset
- Delivers passive noise cancelation
- Provides reliable USB connectivity
- Lightweight and durable
- Long cord for free movement
- Comfortable during extended use
- The mic picks up breathing
Jabra Evolve 40 Professional has been designed for professional use and can be connected to multiple communication platforms, including Skype, the most preferred choice for call centers.
Firstly, the headphones come with a 3.5 mm jack and can be connected to Windows or Mac devices with ease, which makes them one of the most reliable headsets.
Secondly, the passive noise cancelation works well, though the mic tends to catch even your breathing when you talk. Moving it a little lower (near the chin) might solve the problem.
To conclude, the Jabra Evolve 40 Professional Wired Headset offers the best USB connection for Skype and is a cost-effective choice for call center agents, whether you’re work from office or home. The call quality is excellent. Honestly, this headset is better than we thought. It is comfortable for continuous use. The microphone is flexible and can be attached to the headband via a magnet system. It yields excellent quality and people at the other end of VOIP and broadcasts often compliment the clear sound.
View on Amazon: Jabra Evolve 40 Professional Wired Headset
5. Plantronics – Savi 8220 Office – Wireless DECT Dual-Ear (Stereo) Headset
Best Noise-Canceling Headset for Call Centers
- Provides talk time of up to 13 hours
- Works with multiple devices
- Premium-quality build
- Comes with active noise cancelation
- Can provide wireless connectivity up to 590 feet
- We experienced minor issues with Bluetooth connectivity at times
The Plantronics – Savi 8220 Office Wireless Headsets have the best active noise cancellation, allowing clear audio conversations between you and the customer. Since the unit is wireless, you can move around without worrying about losing the connectivity.
Firstly, if you prefer to use different devices at work (mobile, tablet, and PC), this call center headset is perfect for you, as it works with most of them.
Secondly, we noticed that the battery life is decent, though some users complained about it. The fault could lie with the individual piece.
In conclusion, the Plantronics – Savi 8220 Office- Wireless DECT Dual-Ear (Stereo) Headset is comfortable model and delivers promising results if you’re not on a shoestring budget. It is easy to use and pair with the PC and cellphone. Not only this but it also provide an impressive wireless range. You can use the microphone on the right or left. The microphone isolation technology is excellent. We tested with people talking within just a few feet of someone on a call with this headset on and no noise was picked up. The active noise canceling is decent; it eliminates ambient noises but not all noises such as conversations.
View on Amazon: Plantronics – Savi 8220 Office- Wireless DECT Dual-Ear (Stereo) Headset
6. Logitech Zone Wireless Certified for Microsoft Teams Bluetooth Headset
Best Headset for Microsoft Teams
- Provides wireless range up to 100 feet
- Works with various communication platforms
- Delivers up to 14 hours battery backup
- Comprises intuitive call controls
- Comfortable and durable
- Comes with active noise cancelation feature
- We did not experience any issues with this headset
Logitech Zone can be the best wireless headset for you if your call center uses Microsoft Teams for work perspective and communication. The wireless model is a perfect fit for team meetings and lets you mute and unmute by moving the mic arm up and down.
Firstly, the wireless headset comes with dynamic noise cancelation and is suitable for the workplace, as well as home office.
Secondly, the 14-hour battery backup matches the average talk time offered by other headsets on our list.
To conclude, the Logitech Zone Wireless Certified for Microsoft Teams Bluetooth Headset comprises on-ear easy controls. This call center headset comes with wireless Bluetooth connectivity and can be paired with different devices. You cannot imagine how easy it is to mute the microphone. All you need to do is raise the microphone and you’ll hear a “mic off” notification. Lower it and you’ll hear “mic on.” Also, the easiest way to charge this headset is to place it on a wireless charger; we used the Qi charger. We used the headset all day, so comfort is not an issue. We’ve also listed this headset as one of the best headphones for remote work.
View on Amazon: Logitech Zone Wireless Certified for Microsoft Teams Bluetooth Headset
7. Plantronics CS540 Wireless Headset System with Lifter
Best Office Headset for Phones
- Convertible headset
- Wireless range of up to 350 feet
- Lightweight, single earpiece design
- High-quality sound
- One-touch control
- 2-year global warranty
- Can take some time to get used to the convertible headset if you’ve not used one before
The Plantronics CS540 Wireless Call Center Headset is great for office use. You can wear the headset over the ear, over the head, or behind the head, whatever makes you comfortable at work.
Firstly, the noise cancellation works well and enhances the sound quality. With just one touch, you can mute, unmute, or adjust the volume as per your requirements.
Secondly, the wireless model is lightweight and comfortable for all-day use. Since the wireless connectivity works up to 350 feet, you can move and stretch, when at work.
To conclude, the Plantronics CS540 Wireless Headset System With Lifter allows you to attach desk phones to the cordless headset so that you can answer phone calls even when you are not at your desk. This headset is extremely lightweight and sound great. It took us less than 10 minutes to connect the headset and start using it. You can also look at some quick YouTube videos to connect the headset to your desk phone real quick. You’ll get several ear pieces that allow you to find an accurate fit. The battery lasts between 7-8 hours in a single charge. You can adjust the microphone and sound quality per your requirements.
View on Amazon: Plantronics CS540 Wireless Headset System With Lifter
8. AGPtEK Corded Telephone with Headset and Dialpad
Best Headset With Dialpad
- Comfortable fitting
- Easy to set up and use
- Small and compact dial-pad
- Affordable and budget-friendly
- No battery backup
- No backlighting on the dialpad
The AGPtEK Corded Telephone With Headset and Dialpad is low price model for home and office use. The dial pad allows you to make calls directly using the headset instead of the phone.
Firstly, the dial pad is compact and doesn’t take up much space. If you have a tiny desk to work on, you know how important every inch is, right?
Secondly, the fitting is quite comfortable, and the audio is clear. We did not experience any audio issues during calls.
In conclusion, the AGPtEK Corded Telephone with Headset and Dialpad is easy to set up and use. It is compact and does not occupy a lot of space on the desk. You can adjust the volume and turn off the ringer per your convenience. We loved the convenience delivered by the handsfree feature. This product does not require external batteries and can work directly with your telephone line with the RJ15 jack. The headset is comfortable, reversible, and you can wear it on either side. Also, it is adjustable and fit really well.
View on Amazon: AGPtEK Corded Telephone with Headset and Dialpad
9. VoiceJoy Corded RJ9 Phone Headset
Best Headset for Cisco Phone
- Budget-friendly model
- Easy to plug in and use
- Noise-canceling mic
- Flexible boom mic
- Comprises an acoustic shock protection circuit
- Not compatible with Cisco Spa models
The VoiceJoy Corded RJ9 headset has been designed to work specifically with Cisco VOIP phones. The list can be found along with the product details.
Firstly, the headset is extremely affordable. The noise cancelation is good enough, though you can hear some background noises. However, it won’t affect the audio quality.
Secondly, you can use this headset when working from home or office, without any hassles. Just plug it in and you’re ready to go. However, one of our team members has a larger head and felt that the fitting was a little tight (even after adjusting the size).
In conclusion, the VoiceJoy Corded RJ9 Phone Headset is suitable for those who want a cost-effective model to pair with the Cisco phones. Even though this headset has a somewhat flimsy feel, it’s excellent for its affordable price. The sound quality is great and it is easy to install. It plugs directly into your phone and your phone controls the volume, else it has a static volume.
View on Amazon: VoiceJoy Corded RJ9 Phone Headset
10. Avaya Compatible Plantronics CS540 VoIP Wireless Headset
Best Avaya Compatible Headset
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Easy to plug in and use
- Detailed instruction manual
- Can be worn in multiple ways
- Comes with an interface cable
- Mic arm could have been longer
The Avaya Compatible Plantronics CS540 VoIP Wireless Headset has been specifically designed to work with Avaya phones.
Firstly, the wireless headset comes with Avaya compatible ring alert interface cable. You just need to plug it in and start using the headphones. Super easy, isn’t it?
Secondly, the unit is lightweight and comfortable for all-day use. You can either wear it in ear or over the head, depending on how you like your headset to sit on your ears.
To conclude, the Avaya Compatible Plantronics CS540 VoIP Wireless Headset has good audio clarity even though the microphone arm is a wee bit short. Ensure you position it correctly near your lips so that customers can hear you with clarity. The overall audio quality is clear and the volume is loud enough for clear conversations.
View on Amazon: Avaya Compatible Plantronics CS540 VoIP Wireless Headset
11. Jabra PRO 930 MS Mono Lync Optimized Wireless Headset for Softphone
Best Softphone Headset
- Digital signal processing to remove echo and background noises
- PeakStop feature to prevent harmful sounds from reaching the ears
- Noise-canceling microphone
- Remote call controlling feature
- Customization allowed using the Jabra app
- Doesn’t connect with Mac OS
Jabra PRO 930 is yet another wireless headset that can be used by call center agents, and this model has been developed to be compatible with softphone software used for VoIP calls.
Firstly, the HD audio voice feature ensures that the sound clarity is great for speaking and listening. Digital signal processing reduces the background noise, as well as the echo. That’s cool, right?
Secondly, the PeakStop feature removes loud noises that could hurt your ears and reduces them to a safe hearing range. You don’t have to worry about unexpected outbursts from customers hurting your ears. Also, the control buttons on the headset are easy to use.
In conclusion, the Jabra PRO 930 MS Mono Lync Optimized Wireless Headset for Softphone is best for VoIP calls. The wireless connectivity works rather well, though there could be a random drop in connection at times. It doesn’t happen often, so that shouldn’t be much of an issue. The battery performance is fantastic. Also, it is the most comfortable call center headsets on our list. The audio delivered by this headset is clear and crisp, and it has a great range. The mute button is conveniently placed on the headset, so you can use it easily during calls. You’ll also find the volume controls on the headset.
View on Amazon: Jabra PRO 930 MS Mono Lync Optimized Wireless Headset for Softphone
12. Sennheiser SC 165 USB (508317) – Double-Sided (Binaural) Headset
Best Video Conferencing Headset
- Dual padding; foam and leatherette
- Long cord for convenience
- Compatible with phone and PC
- No audio distortion during calls
- Reliable microphone
- Slightly heavier than the other call center headsets on our list
The Sennheiser SC 165 USB (508317) is one of the best video conferencing headsets you can find for a low price. It delivers decent noise cancelation that prevents the distortion of sound.
Firstly, the earpads can be used with either padding, depending on your convenience. The earpads are rather flat and press on the whole ear. If you have a larger head, it could become uncomfortable after a couple of hours.
Secondly, the on-ear controls are easy to use and work well. The build is great for the highly affordable price. However, remember that there could be size issues if you have a small head.
To conclude, the Sennheiser SC 165 USB (508317) – Double-Sided (Binaural) Headset is good for call center agents who need to attend video conferences periodically. It is extremely easy to set up and use. The audio delivered by this headset is full and rich. You can switch between the 3.5 mm jack and USB connector instantly. The ear pads are comfortable; however, they are somewhat flat and stick to the ears. The cord is pretty long but great from a convenience point.
View on Amazon: Sennheiser SC 165 USB (508317) – Double-Sided (Binaural) Headset
13. Sennheiser SC 665 USB (507257)- Double-Sided Business Headset
Best Business Headset
- Ultra noise cancelation technology for clear audio
- Works with Skype for Business and all UC platforms (Avaya, Cisco, and so on)
- Comfortable fit
- In-line controls for convenience
- We did not experience any issues with this headset
Sennheiser SC 665 USB (507257) is a mid-range headset, suitable for business use. It can be connected via the 3.5 mm jack or USB connector.
Firstly, the ultra noise cancelation feature is worth mentioning, though some users were not fully satisfied. We believe it has more to do with a defective piece. Our team faced no issues with audio quality.
Secondly, the headset works perfectly well with Skype and major UC platforms used by businesses. The double-earpiece effectively cancels background noise and delivers HD audio.
In conclusion, the Sennheiser SC 665 USB (507257)- Double-Sided Business Headset is comfortable for extended use and can help call center agents do their job effectively. You can wear it throughout the day and not feel any pain in your ears or on your head. Both the call and music listening audio quality are excellent. The noise-canceling microphone filters out noises really well. The bi-aural fit is comfortable for extended use. Therefore, if you’re looking for a good-quality and reliable call center headset for professional use, without Bluetooth sitting on your head all day long, we recommend this headset.
View on Amazon: Sennheiser SC 665 USB (507257)- Double-Sided Business Headset
14. Plantronics HW540 Encorepro Convertible Headset
Best Convertible Headset for Call Center
- Convertible design
- Comfortable for extended hours
- Useful for people with eyeglasses
- Compact design and size
- You need to purchase the connection adaptor separately depending on your device
The Plantronics HW540 is a great choice if you like a single model to offer you different ways of wearing the headsets. This one can be used in three ways – behind the head, over the head, and over the ear.
Firstly, the headset can be used for 10-12 hours at a stretch, even if you have eyeglasses. Yes, it is comfortable. We were satisfied with all three settings, more so since each of us prefers a different way of wearing this headset.
Secondly, the noise-canceling mic delivers clear audio. The overall call quality is excellent.
To conclude, the Plantronics HW540 Encorepro Convertible Headset is a cost-effective model for call center agents. This headset has been designed for people with telephone-intensive jobs. The end of its cord is known as “quick disconnect.” Therefore, you need to buy the connecting adapter separately. Overall, this headset is compact and sleek. The sound and volume are clear and loud. It is comfortable and fits perfectly on the ears. While we’ve already listed some convertible headsets above, this one’s the best so far.
View on Amazon: Plantronics HW540 Encorepro Convertible Headset
Frequently Asked Questions about Call Center Headsets
Yes, you can use gaming headsets for call centers. Gaming headsets are slightly more expensive than most headsets and have better technology to provide an enhanced gaming experience. This technology can improve the work quality at call centers and allow agents to receive calls promptly and engage in better conversations with customers.
The noise-canceling headsets are a vital part of call center infrastructure. They allow the agents to work efficiently without being disturbed by background noise in the crowded office. It is easier to listen to the customers and provide a solution when there is no noise to disturb them while at work. Also, using headsets is easier than holding the phone to the ear because of the constant calls.
Conclusion
Our review is based on the experience of our headphone experts. We hope you found our reviews useful. If we were to pick the best headset for call centers based on our experience, we would suggest going with the Plantronics Voyager Focus UC B825 Headset as the best overall model that offers all that you’d want for call center headsets. It is comfortable, durable, and sounds great. The overall call and microphone quality is excellent.
That said, it’s up to you to decide which call center headsets to buy, per your requirements. Do let us know which headset you’ve decided to buy.
