Having a difficult time finding the best headset for online teaching that both you and your students can rely on? Look no further. This helpful guide includes some of the top-rated headsets that will make your online classroom experience effortless.
Virtual learning is a routine that many of us are still getting used to. As the new year is underway, your comfort and ability to focus are of the utmost importance. Are you constantly having to strain your ears to listen to your students? Struggling to control background noises? The following list includes headsets that excel in comfort, reliability, clear audio, and more.
Top 10: Best Headset for Online Teaching
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1. Plantronics PLNAUDIO478
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The Plantronics PLNAUDIO478 is a more expensive option for teachers looking for a great quality headset. This product is known for its Skype compatibility, which is ideal for virtual learning. The compact remote that is included is helpful with adjusting the audio volume, muting, and starting or ending a call.
Another popular quality of the Plantronics PLNAUDIO478 is its digital signaling process technology, which helps with background noises and echoes, making it seem like you are face to face with your students.
Noise-canceling technology is an important feature with virtual learning, and when searching for the perfect headset for your school year. This headset includes an impressive noise-canceling microphone that is able to cancel out any background noise, and make your voice loud and clear.
Specifications:
- Skype certified
- Includes remote
- Noise-canceling
Sample Customer Review…These are used primarily for my work-at-home customer service position. The sound quality is always amazing for both me and my customers. I have been told on more than one occasion that it sounds like I am in the room right there with them. Comes with a mute button, and two volume buttons to suit your sound needs. The mute button lights up red to let you know when you have yourself on mute or not. It’s very comfortable to wear and lightweight as well. Love that it folds up at the end of the day. You cannot go wrong with this product
Read more reviews at Amazon.com.
2. Logitech H390
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The Logitech H390 has quickly become one of the most popular headsets on the market for online teaching. Its noise-canceling microphone and padded ear pads make for a great teaching experience.
Furthermore, the Logitech H390 is an affordable headset, perfect for a teacher looking for a product to not break the bank and to also be dependable. Oftentimes a cheap product results in low dependability and gets thrown away after just a few uses. This is not the case with the Logitech H390. Many users state that the headset is of great quality for the price.
It is also compatible with any system, meaning whether your computer is Mac or Windows-operated, it will function just as well. This headsets easy set-up is also beneficial to anybody that may struggle with navigating this new virtual adjustment.
Specifications:
- Noise-canceling microphone
- Padded earpads and headband
- Adjustable
- Easy set-up
Sample Customer Review…These headphones are great! They are comfortable, the sound quality is fantastic (I don’t have to have the volume on the computer very high to hear clearly) and the mute option on the headphones has saved me many times (if I’m teaching online and I need to cough or if my child comes yelling into the room…I just hit the mute button and problem solved). I recommend these headphones if you’re looking for comfort, reliability, and practicality.
Read more reviews at Amazon.com.
3. Sony XB550AP Extra Bass On-Ear Headset
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The Sony XB550AP Extra Bass headset is next on our list of headsets. This ideal teaching headset is moderately priced, with an in-line microphone that provides a hands-free experience, which many customers love. Its classic, timeless look makes it a great choice.
This headset provides the utmost comfortability with over-ear cups and an adjustable headband, helping you to stay online for longer. Furthermore, this headset is compatible, making it easy to take with you when traveling, or storing it in a small space. Staying organized while online teaching is essential, which is why this headset may be perfect for you.
It is important to be able to hear your students’ questions and comments during an online lecture. One of the important key features of this headset will help with just that. The Sony XB550AP Extra Bass headset includes 33mm drivers, which are small speakers embedded in the earphones, helping you to hear students loud and clear. This feature allows you to hear a variety of frequencies and enhances the overall listening experience.
Specifications:
- In-line microphone
- Adjustable headband
- 30mm drivers
Sample Customer Review…These really produce an amazing sound quality for such a low price. The bass is boosted, but not too much that it sounds overpowering. The look and build quality are excellent, not surprisingly coming from Sony. I must point out that while these are NOT noise-canceling headphones, the acoustic isolation of the cups, makes the earphones more like earmuffs.
The outside sound is so muted, I personally find it weird when using the built-in mike for phone calls, because I can’t hear myself talk like normal. But, this is a great result when listing to music, because with the outside sounds so muted, the music really comes alive. I have heard details that get lost with my cheapo earbuds.
Read more reviews at Amazon.com.
4. Marshall Major III
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Are you looking for a stylish yet comfortable headset to last you the school year? Well the Marshall Major III may be the headset you’ve been looking for. This stylish headset is iconic in the music industry and provides the best audio for 5+ hours. Equipped with comfortable earpads and headbands, it allows comfortable wear for the entirety of the class. Another advantage of this headset is the lack of bulkiness and sleek look that it has, allowing for a trendy, stylish look.
Armed with Bluetooth, this headset gives you the flexibility of movement without needing to be connected directly to the computer. However, this headset also comes with a wire to connect to your computer if desired. Either way, the headset provides amazing audio to hear your students. The Marshall Major III is also easy to pack up, making for easy travel and storage.
Specifications:
- Last 5+ hours
- Bluetooth
- No microphone
Sample Customer Review…These are absolutely amazing. I use them daily for hours and hours without issues. The battery lasts for days and the sound quality is always amazing. But the main reason these are my top choice is the comfort of these headphones. With earnings sometimes it’s a pain to wear over-the-ear styles but I have not once help discomfort. Truly love them. Plus they look awesome, I always get compliments.
Read more reviews at Amazon.com.
5. Jabra Evolve Wired Headsets
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The Jabra Evolve 40 headsets have great audio for both voice and music, making them an appealing option. The noise-canceling microphone is also effective for blocking out external noise which is great for online teaching. In addition, the “on the ear” design prevents the headsets from looking too big or bulky. As a side note, the build quality can be questionable as the audio can drop from the side of the headsets if the wire is pulled the wrong way. But with the excellent audio and noise-canceling feature, this headset is a great option for online teaching.
Specifications
- 3.5mm jack
- Has USB connector
- Includes leather-feel cushions
- Compatible with leading UC platforms
Sample Customer Review…The headset is light and the mute, volume, and phone and computer connection/control are awesome! I have conducted coaching sessions and been on podcasts using this headset. All participants have commented on how clear my voice sounds. It is amazing how much clarity is gained when using these headphones. I would highly recommend someone who seeks clarity when being heard to buy these headphones.
Read more reviews at Amazon.com.
6. Cyber Acoustic
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The Cyber Acoustic Stereo headset is an affordable option for those looking to not break the bank. At this price point, the product offers some of the best noise-canceling on the market, to easily block out any background noise that might be disruptive to your teaching. The built-in microphone that is included with this product should be used by all teachers, allowing for perfect audio.
Worried about your headset falling apart over time? The Cyber Acoustic Stereo is designed specifically for the online teaching environment and is made with durable materials that will last significantly longer than your average headset. It is both small and lightweight, making it easy to take with you wherever you teach.
You don’t want to be constantly bothered by uncomfortable headphones, do you? This headset is made to be comfortable and can be worn for long periods of time. Focusing solely on your work, and educating your students is a priority, and this headset can help you achieve that with no distractions or discomforts.
Specifications:
- Built-in microphone
- Noise-canceling
- Volume control
- 35mm
Sample Customer Review…This headset is excellent. The sound is good. Evidently, the mic is also good, at least according to the people I’ve talked to. I haven’t heard myself speak through them. The mic flips up out of the way when you’re not using it. The headset works well with my phone, allowing me to have a conversation even in a noisy environment. The generous cushions of the earphones block out most of the noise.
One feature I especially like is the sheathing of the cord. This is some sort of tough fabric that doesn’t pull or deform. It gives the cord strength and seems to also help prevent kinking or tangling. Altogether I’m quite pleased with it.
Read more reviews at Amazon.com.
7. Yamay Bluetooth Headsets
[amazon box= B07L13Y3K2 description= “ “ rating= 4.2]
The Yamay Bluetooth Headsets are great quality headsets that feature a noise-canceling microphone and audio, blocking out external noises that become ideal for online teaching. They have a unique design that has one headphone cushion pad to cover only one ear, which allows you to listen to other ambient noises. While it may take some getting used to, the one ear design is ideal if you want a chat-oriented headset.
The Bluetooth connection is also user-friendly as the connection is able to switch between your laptop and phone with ease. The charging port that comes with it allows for easy charging so that your headset is ready to use for your online class.
Specifications
- Noise-canceling
- One-ear design
- Wireless and Bluetooth
- 2 hours of charging offers up to 19 hours of continuous use
- Includes muting function
Sample Customer Review…I bought this when I started working from home. I wanted something similar to what I had been using and the price made me give this a try. It had worked great for me! It is very lightweight and comfortable with good sound clarity. I will usually wear it for several hours at a time and it recharges quickly. I actually bought another one for my husband to use sure we are in the same home office. It was easy to sync and use. Highly recommend this product.
Read more reviews at Amazon.com.
8. Andrea Computer Headset
[amazon box= B00206WJ42 description= “ “ rating= 4]
Are you a multitasking teacher? Or feel like a typical headset is too much to handle? The Andrea Computer headset may be perfect for you. It is equipped with only one ear pad, making it lighter, and easy to manage. Trying to decide between headphones or a headset? The Andrea Computer headset is a perfect compromise, as the single earpad provides breathability and a lightweight feel, similar to many headphones.
Your students will be able to hear you loud and clear if you choose this product. Its adjustable, noise-canceling microphone allows you to position the microphone to allow the clearest audio, while also blocking any surrounding noise out.
If you’re looking for the perfect audio experience in your classroom, this headset will do just that. This product includes a remote that can be used to adjust the volume, and mute or unmute your audio. This provides easy communication to your students.
Specifications:
- Lightweight
- One-sided ear-pad
- Remote included
Sample Customer Review…Excellent Headset for any use, and instead of using Bluetooth, this one connects up on my Surface and my Laptop without going through any of the stupid hoops to turn off the onboard Microphone and Speaker that Bluetooth devices do not properly handle. Lightweight, the Microphone adjusts as advertised, and the noise-canceling effects work just fine.
Read more reviews at Amazon.com.
9. Levin Bluetooth 4.1
[amazon box= B06Y5WWTWD description= “ “ rating= 4]
Do you like to move around while online teaching? The Levin Bluetooth 4.1 headset is cordless, making moving around the room easy and effortless. With a 10 meter range, this headset allows you to move around the room without worrying about being connected to the computer. The Bluetooth technology has a painless setup, and once connected, is strong and reliable. Another advantage of Bluetooth technology is the connectivity to any device. Whether you would rather do your teaching on a tablet, phone, or computer, the Levin Bluetooth 4.1 headset will connect to almost any device.
Even though you are not connected directly to the computer, the audio is clear no matter where you are in the room. The design is different from many other headsets, as it does not have the classic headband look, rather the earpads connect in the back of your head. This is an advantage as the product will feel less bulky. Powered by batteries, and lasting 13.5 hours, you can always rely on this headset to provide great audio and connectivity.
Specifications:
- Advanced Bluetooth 4.1 technology
- 10-meter range
Sample Customer Review…I can’t imagine a better headset for a work/office environment. I can listen to them and I can still hear people talk. They fit perfectly over my ears and are secure, even going over my glasses. If I need to remove them they simply hang around my neck, so they can be worn at all times during the day. The distance the Bluetooth signal travels in my office is about 25 feet.
If you are someone else who needs to fiddle with the volume constantly, you will find it is hard to change volume/songs while wearing the headphones. It may get easier in time – once you learn where the buttons are. I use mine with my office computer or my phone; both have Bluetooth. It connects flawlessly and fast. I use the volume on my phone, Spotify, or YouTube to control the volume.
I see no need to mess with the volume on the headphones themselves – once it is initially set. I have had them for a while but have never had the occasion to answer a phone call, so I cannot review how that feature works. The sound is exactly what I would expect from speakers at this price point, and for speakers that do not actually cover your entire ear, or block outside noises.
Basically, for the office, I do not know how one could find a better, more versatile set of headphones that are easy on, easy off, let you hear others talk, and sound great. Everyone in my office has been checking them out, so I imagine they will all be ordering a pair in the near future.
Read more reviews at Amazon.com.
10. Sony Noise-Canceling Headphones
[amazon box= B00NG57H4S description= “ “ rating= 4.3]
The Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones are great if you’re looking for something simple and affordable. The headphones have quality audio, and their noise-canceling feature blocks out external noises, making online teaching easier for you. Small and lightweight, they’re easy to pack up and take with you, not to mention their stylish design will look great on the screen.
Specifications
- Over-ear design
- Noise isolating
- Cord length: 3.94 feet
Sample Customer Review…Having tried everything in the book to tune out my noisy office mates, I decided to give these a try. They are now my solution for everyday wear at work. I don’t have to play my music as loudly as I used to with earbuds in order to tune out the endless chatter and gossip. It works as well as using earbuds with ear protection headgear (like you would use at a shooting range!) together, which is a LOT less comfortable than these headphones.
I suspect there are some out there that cancel ambient noise more effectively, but for the price and quality of these headphones, I am quite satisfied and recommend the product to anyone looking for comfort and effectiveness.
Read more reviews at Amazon.com.
Buying Guide: Things to Consider When Purchasing a Headset for Online Teaching
Built-in Microphone and Noise Cancellation Feature
Making sure your students can clearly understand you is crucial for effective teaching, but this can be challenging in an online setting. That’s why choosing a headset with a built-in microphone and noise cancellation feature is important to elevating your virtual classroom. These features will allow your voice to be heard clearly while eliminating distracting background noises, overall improving your students’ learning experience.
Audio Quality
While it is important for your students to hear you, it is equally important for you to hear your students. As such, choosing a headset that has good audio quality will be helpful. However, you don’t need a headset with a professional audio quality — just good enough so that you can hear your students’ questions and comments.
Mute Feature
Online teaching comes with many distractions, and there will be times when you may be interrupted during your class. For these situations, it’s beneficial to find a headset that has a muting feature. This function will allow you to simply mute yourself and prevent your students from hearing anything you do not wish for them to hear. As such, you can easily address any interruption quickly and go right back to teaching.
Comfort and Design
Teaching in a virtual setting will require you to wear your headset for hours on end which can cause aches and soreness around the ears and head. To prevent this, comfort is an important factor to consider when choosing a headset. More comfortable headsets will be lightweight and have soft and breathable padding around the earpieces and headbands.
The headband should also be adjustable to ensure the right sizing. In addition, different headset designs may be more comfortable for different individuals, such as over the ear, on-ear, or neck bands styles. Making sure your headset includes these features and a favorable design will make online teaching a more comfortable and better experience for you.
Price
While there’s a vast range of prices for headsets, cost doesn’t exactly equate with quality. You can get a good quality headset that does everything you need it to while being at an affordable price.
Wireless Option
Headsets with cords get tangled easily and cause them to not work properly, along with how time-consuming untangling cords can be. As such, wireless headsets have become an attractive option for teachers. Unlike common belief, wireless headsets do not cost more than the average headset. While they do require you to charge them periodically (and thus is important to look into a good battery life), wireless headsets will allow you to move around with ease and not have the additional worries of tangled cords. As a side note, many laptops have built-in Bluetooth, but if you have a desktop PC, you may need a Bluetooth USB adapter to connect with your device.
Conclusion
In this article, you have learned about some of the most popular headsets available to you today. This list provided 8 headsets that will be most useful to you while continuing to teach online. No matter what you teach, having a reliable, comfortable headset is essential to make the most of the virtual world we now live in. To make your decision easier, we have included the specifications of each headset, a brief summary of the product, and the pros and cons of each headset.
It is of the utmost importance that your teaching is done to the best of your ability, making it essential that you choose a headset that is perfect for you.
Written by Haley McKee and Emily Cho