Wired Office Headsets with Mic

Start with what you'll plug it into

A wired headset connects in one of two ways, so pick the connection first. A wired USB headset plugs straight into your computer for Teams, Zoom, RingCentral and other softphone calls. A desk phone headset ends in a quick disconnect (QD) connector and needs a second piece to reach your phone: a direct connect cable if your phone has a headset port, or an amplifier if it doesn't. Our setup guide for the Discover D711, D712, D722 and D713 walks through both setups step by step.

Wired USB for computers and softphones

USB headsets are plug and play: take one out of the box, plug it in and you're ready for your first call. Many now include both USB-A and USB-C, like the Discover D722U and the Yealink UH46, so you don't need an adapter for a newer laptop. For more computer models, see our wired headsets for computers.

Wired for desk phones

QD headsets such as the Poly EncorePro HW510, HW520 and HW540 are designed for desk phones, whether the phone is analog, digital or VoIP. The cable you need depends on your phone's make and model: a direct connect cable that works with a Cisco phone may not work with an Avaya phone. Our quick disconnect headsets for office phones page lists the cables by phone brand, and our headset compatibility guide covers more models.

One headset for both

If you use a desk phone today but expect to move to softphones, plan for it now. A QD headset can work with a computer through an adapter cable that converts the quick disconnect to USB. Some desk phones also take a USB headset: the Discover D713U plugs straight into the USB port on Yealink phones such as the T42S and T54W. If you switch between a desk phone and a computer all day, a wireless headset with a base that connects to both may fit better; see our wireless headsets for office phones.

Microphone noise cancelling or ANC?

These two features solve different problems. A noise-canceling microphone reduces the background noise your callers hear. Active noise cancellation (ANC) reduces the noise you hear through the speakers. Most wired office headsets have a noise-canceling microphone. ANC is less common on wired USB headsets. Our article on finding a wired USB headset for work explains the difference with a video.

In our D712U vs D722U review, we tested both headsets against office noise, barking dogs and a blender. "Both headsets sound professional, and unquestionably are acceptable for use within any business setting," and the D722U reduced more of the noise. The D722U has no electronic ANC; its cushions surround your ears for passive isolation. If you also want to hear less of the room, look at wired models with ANC, such as the EPOS Impact 860, the HP Poly Mission 800 series or the Jabra Evolve2 50. Our noise cancelling headsets for work have more options.

Pick a wearing style

Wired office headsets come in four main styles. Over-the-head mono covers one ear, so you can still hear what's going on around you. Over-the-head duo covers both ears and suits open, noisy offices. Over-the-ear models skip the headband, which helps if headbands give you headaches. Convertible models, like the HW540, let you switch between styles.

Cushions matter as much as style. The D712U's smaller cushions rest against your ears, while the D722U's memory foam cushions surround them and are infused with cooling gel for long calls. Some people find on-ear pressure uncomfortable after several hours; others like that on-ear feels lighter and keeps them aware of the room. If you'd rather wear nothing over your head, the Discover D713U is an on-ear USB headset with an adjustable ear loop.

Teams or UC version

Some wired USB headsets come in a Microsoft Teams version and a UC version. The Teams version adds Teams controls on the headset, such as launching calls and muting a meeting. If you also use programs such as Zoom or RingCentral, the UC version is the better fit. Others, like the Discover D722U and D712U, come in one version that works with Teams, Zoom, RingCentral and other leading UC apps. If Teams is your main platform, browse our wired Microsoft Teams headsets.

Wired or wireless?

Wired headsets have a lower upfront cost, never need charging and keep a consistent connection without dropped call concerns, often with longer warranty coverage. The tradeoff is the cord: you can only move as far as it reaches, and connecting to different devices may not be possible. Business-grade wired and wireless headsets both offer excellent sound quality today, so the choice comes down to how you work. Read our guide to wired vs wireless headsets for the full tradeoffs.

If your work is mostly at one desk, wired is still a reliable fit. If you need to move during calls, work from home with interruptions or supervise a team, read when to switch from a wired to a wireless headset and compare our wireless office headsets.

Comfort for all-day calls

Weight, headband padding and cushions decide how a headset feels at the end of the day. In our Poly HW540 review, the over-the-head option weighed 32 grams (1.1 ounces), light enough for all-day use. The D722U has one long, generously padded headband cushion; the D712U has three rubberized pads on a flexible headband you can adjust for a comfortable fit.

Replaceable cushions help a headset last longer. The D722U's cushions can be replaced, and for the EPOS Impact 860 we created over-ear cushions in leatherette or fabric for users who find the on-ear pads uncomfortable. However you wear it, place the microphone two fingers' width from the corner of your mouth for the clearest sound.

Buying for a team

People on the same team rarely agree on fit. A convertible like the HW540 comes with a headband, earpiece and neckband, so each person picks a style from the same box. For busy call centers, the D712U's headband is reinforced with steel at the typical break points, and our call center headsets collection has more team models.

We offer volume quotes, purchase orders, tax-exempt orders and payment terms for enterprise, government, education and healthcare teams. Teams of 10 or more can join our Managed Headset Program, with headsets from $4 to $20 per user per month and replacements that ship first. Get a team quote.

Still not sure?

Tell us your desk phone or softphone, your workspace and how many people you're buying for. We'll match a headset and, for desk phones, the cable you need. Talk to an Advisor.