Top Computer Headsets for Clear Calls and Gaming
The Poly Voyager Focus 2 is our top pick for most computer users, offering excellent noise cancellation and wireless freedom. It is ideal for professionals who spend hours in calls. The main limitation is its premium price, but the call quality and comfort justify the investment for frequent users.
Choosing the right computer headset can dramatically improve your work-from-home experience or gaming sessions. With so many options, it’s important to focus on your specific needs: call clarity, comfort, or immersive sound.
We have sifted through the market to select headsets that excel in different areas. Our roundup covers wired and wireless models, each with its unique strengths to help you stay productive and entertained.
The shortlist, ranked
Poly Voyager Focus 2
The Poly Voyager Focus 2 is a wireless headset with active noise cancelling (ANC) and a boom mic that delivers exceptional call clarity. Owners praise its comfortable fit for all-day wear and its ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously.
Pros
- Excellent active noise cancellation
- Crystal-clear microphone for calls
- Comfortable for long sessions
Cons
- Pricey compared to basic headsets
- Not ideal for music listening
Jabra Evolve2 65
The Jabra Evolve2 65 is a wireless headset designed for busy office environments. It features a hidden microphone that reduces background noise, and owners report excellent call quality. The headset is lightweight and offers a comfortable fit even with glasses.
Pros
- Long battery life
- Comfortable over-ear design
- Reliable connection
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- Plastic build feels less premium
Logitech H570
The Logitech H570 is a simple wired headset that delivers solid performance for a low price. It has a noise-cancelling microphone and in-line controls. Owners say it is perfect for everyday calls and virtual meetings without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Plug-and-play with USB
- Decent sound quality
Cons
- Cable can be tangly
- Earcups may get warm after hours
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 is a wired gaming headset that also works great for computer calls. It features a clear, retractable microphone and comfortable memory foam ear cushions. Users appreciate its balanced sound and lightweight design.
Pros
- Great sound for music and games
- Retractable mic is convenient
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons
- No USB connection
- Requires sound card for best audio
Sennheiser PC 8 USB
The Sennheiser PC 8 USB is a no-frills headset that focuses on clear communication. It has a flexible boom mic and lightweight design. Owners report that it works flawlessly with all major conferencing apps and is very comfortable for short to medium calls.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Good microphone clarity
- Simple plug-and-play
Cons
- On-ear design may fatigue over time
- Limited volume control
HyperX Cloud II
The HyperX Cloud II is a popular wired headset known for its excellent audio quality and durable build. It features a detachable microphone and memory foam ear cushions. Owners love the virtual 7.1 surround sound for gaming and movies, making it versatile for both work and play.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Comfortable memory foam earpads
- Detachable mic
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors
- No wireless option
Plantronics Blackwire 5220
The Plantronics Blackwire 5220 is a wired USB headset designed for unified communications. It offers active noise cancelling (ANC) and a noise-cancelling microphone. Users report that it works seamlessly with popular softphones like Skype and Teams, providing clear conversations.
Pros
- Active noise cancellation for calls
- Certified for major UC platforms
- Lightweight and foldable
Cons
- Cable management could be better
- Earpads are not replaceable
What matters most
How they compare
| # | Model | Connectivity | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Poly Voyager Focus 2 | Bluetooth, USB dongle | Best overall for professionals | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Jabra Evolve2 65 | Bluetooth, USB dongle | Best for hybrid workers | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Logitech H570 | Wired USB | Best budget wired headset | 8.7 | Check price |
| 4 | SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 | Wired 3.5mm | Best for gaming and calls | 9.0 | Check price |
| 5 | Sennheiser PC 8 USB | Wired USB | Best for simple calls | 8.4 | Check price |
| 6 | HyperX Cloud II | Wired USB/3.5mm | Best for immersive sound | 9.1 | Check price |
| 7 | Plantronics Blackwire 5220 | Wired USB | Best for softphone users | 8.8 | Check price |
Good to know
What is the best computer headset for work from home?
The Poly Voyager Focus 2 is excellent for professionals due to its superior noise cancellation and microphone quality. It ensures you sound clear even in noisy environments, and it is comfortable for all-day wear.
Can I use gaming headsets for work calls?
Yes, many gaming headsets like the HyperX Cloud II have clear microphones and comfortable designs, making them suitable for work calls. They often feature detachable mics and good sound quality, but they may be bulkier.
Are wired or wireless headsets better for video conferencing?
Wired headsets are often more reliable with no latency or battery issues, making them a safe choice for important meetings. Wireless headsets offer convenience but require regular charging and could have interference.
What is active noise cancellation in a headset?
Active noise cancellation (ANC) uses microphones to detect ambient noise and produce opposing sound waves to cancel it out. This reduces background noise, helping you focus and improving call clarity.
How important is a noise-cancelling microphone?
It is very important for clear communication. A noise-cancelling mic filters out background sounds like typing or traffic, ensuring that your voice is heard clearly by the person on the other end.
Can I connect a wireless headset to multiple devices?
Many premium wireless headsets like the Poly Voyager Focus 2 support multi-point connectivity, allowing you to connect to both your computer and phone simultaneously. This is handy for taking calls while using your PC.
What is the average battery life for wireless computer headsets?
Battery life varies, but many quality wireless headsets offer between 15 to 24 hours of talk time on a single charge. The Jabra Evolve2 65 boasts up to 37 hours of listening time, which is above average.
Are there headsets that work with both USB and 3.5mm jacks?
Yes, some headsets, like the HyperX Cloud II, come with both USB and 3.5mm connections. This versatility allows you to use them with a wide range of devices, including computers, consoles, and mobile phones.
Our pick
For most computer users, the Poly Voyager Focus 2 is the clear winner due to its excellent call quality, comfort, and noise cancellation. If you are on a budget, the Logitech H570 delivers great value for simple calls. Gamers who also need a headset for work should consider the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 for its versatility.
