Headsets and earphones for calls, music and office work, from headband models with a microphone to in-ear true wireless earbuds. The range includes JBL, POLY, Jabra, Logitech and Sharkoon, so there are options for a call centre desk, a daily commute or gaming sessions.
How to choose headsets and earphones
Wearing style. Headband models sit over or on the ears and suit long sessions at a desk, while in-ear models slip into a pocket and work better for travel and exercise. Both styles are available in our range, and the ear coupling is either intra-aural (in the ear) or supra-aural (resting on the ear).
Microphone type. A boom microphone sits close to your mouth and usually picks up speech more clearly in a noisy room. In-line microphones on the cable and built-in microphones are more convenient for casual calls. If you spend hours on video meetings, give the microphone more weight than the speakers.
Connectivity. Wired headsets need no charging and are simple to use at a desk or with a console. Wireless models use Bluetooth or a dongle and free you from the cable, and true wireless stereo earbuds have no cable at all. All three are available in our range. For wireless models, check the battery life against your typical day.
Intended use. Office and call centre headsets are built around speech clarity and comfort over a full shift. Models listed for calls and music cover both, and music-only models put the emphasis on sound. Choose by the task you will do most.
Sound and driver size. Driver sizes in our range run from about 9 mm in earbuds to 4 cm in headband models. Larger drivers tend to handle bass more easily, but tuning matters as much as size. A frequency range of 20 to 20,000 Hz is the usual figure quoted for headphones and does not by itself say how good a pair sounds.
Headset and earphone brands we carry
- JBL: a consumer audio brand from the Harman group, known for portable speakers as well as wireless headphones and true wireless earbuds.
- POLY and Jabra: both focus on business communication, with headsets made for office desks, call centres and video conferencing.
- Logitech: makes office and gaming peripherals, including headsets with microphones for calls and play.
- Sharkoon and Genesis: PC peripheral brands with a gaming focus, offering headsets with microphones for use at a computer.
- Skullcandy: a lifestyle audio brand known for casual headphones and earbuds with a strong emphasis on bass.
- JVC and Pioneer: Japanese electronics makers with long histories in home and car audio, now also making headphones and earphones.
Also in our range: Lenovo.
Headsets and earphones FAQ
What is the difference between a headset and earphones?
A headset combines headphones with a microphone, while earphones are small speakers worn in the ear and may or may not include a microphone. Headsets are usually chosen for calls, meetings and gaming. Earphones are more common for music and quick calls on the move.
Do I need a boom microphone for calls?
A boom microphone is not essential, but it usually gives clearer speech because it sits close to your mouth. In-line and built-in microphones are fine for occasional calls in a quiet place. For daily meetings or a noisy office, a boom microphone is the safer choice.
Are true wireless earphones good for work calls?
Many true wireless earphones handle calls well, provided they have a built-in microphone and enough battery for your meetings. They are convenient because there is no cable to catch. For all-day calls, a headband headset with a boom microphone is generally more comfortable and easier to keep charged.
Should I buy a wired or wireless headset?
Choose wired if you want no charging and a stable connection at a fixed desk, and wireless if you move around or dislike cables. Wired models never run out of battery. Wireless models give you freedom to walk away from your computer during a call.
