If you’re in the market for a corded headset, you’ve come to the right place. Here at Headsets.com, we know what makes a good headset, and we are here to set you up with the corded option that’ll optimize your productivity. In this article, we will go through some of the most important things to know about corded headsets, and we’ll give you our recommendations for the best ones.
Why you might want a corded headset
There are a variety of benefits to using a corded headset. Here are some of the main reasons why you may opt for one of these over a wireless model:
Sound quality: More often than not, wired headsets have higher audio quality than their wireless counterparts. That’s because, with a wireless headset, the information traveling between devices needs to be turned into radio waves in order to get from one device to another. Corded headsets, on the other hand, don’t need to convert any information into radio waves. Instead, everything you’re saying goes straight through the cord and to your phone system. It makes for a much easier process, and the more direct transfer of information leads to higher sound quality.
Ease of setup: With a wireless device, you’ll need to pair your headset to the base. If it’s a Bluetooth device, you’ll also need to pair the base to whatever phone, computer, or tablet you’re aiming to connect with. With corded headsets, no advanced pairing methods are necessary. The majority of these models are simply “plug-and-play.” Easy set up, easy disconnect.
Lower price point: On average, corded headsets go for way less than wireless ones. High quality wireless office headsets often reach the $300s range, sometimes even exceeding it. The majority of corded models, however, come in at around $100-$250. All of the models discussed on this list cost under $200!
Consistent power: Because your wired headset is linked directly to your phone or your computer, it’s equipped with a consistent power supply. That means no charging is necessary. With a wireless headset, if you forget to charge, your workday might be interrupted by a dead headset. Using a corded model eliminates this possibility.
Without further ado, let’s get into our recommendations for the best corded headsets.
Our best corded headset recommendations
Leitner models
Entries #1 and #2 on this list are both Leitner headsets: the Leitner LH240 and LH245XL. We’ll be including them in the same category because they have much in common when it comes to top-notch features. However, they still have distinctions between them, and we’ll cover those a bit further down.
First, we’ll go over the shared features that we think you’ll love about these devices:
Compatibility: Each of these headsets is compatible with 99% of all office phone brands, amplifiers, and headset accessories. They work with pretty much any desk phone setup you already have. That means no extra accessories or complicated set up.
Maximum comfort: Both of these headsets utilize UltraFlex technology in the headband. That means that the band can be molded to your head however you need it to be, and it’ll hold that position all day long. No matter how wacky your head is shaped, the LH240 and LH245XL are sure to fit comfortably.
Audio quality: These two models have ultra noise-canceling capabilities. They keep your calls sounding crisp and professional, no matter how busy your office is. Additionally, you’ll hear everything your callers say thanks to CleanSound Technology. Everything going in and everything coming out of your headset will be of maximum quality.
5-year warranty: Like all Leitner headsets, the LH240 and LH245XL have a 5-year full replacement warranty to back them. Most headsets’ warranties only span 1 to 2 years. It just goes to show how reliable these devices are.
Now let’s look at what makes these two headsets different:
LH240:
Price: $79.00
Configuration: This is a single-ear headset. It’s over the head, and it’s got an extra comfortable ear cushion covering one ear. You can switch between ears thanks to the rotating mic. Keeping one ear open is perfect for people who work in an office setting where they need to collaborate with coworkers regularly. Having an ear free while still being able to stay connected to calls makes this headset particularly appealing.
LH245XL
Price: $134.00
Configuration: This model is dual-ear. You’ve got a cushion covering each ear, but these are no ordinary cushions. They’ve got a 2.75 inch diameter, which is double the size of a standard ear cushion. This XL earpiece is perfect for anyone who’s had trouble finding a comfortable headset in the past. Additionally, because it covers both ears, it’ll block out far more sound than the LH240. This is great for anybody who’s working in an environment with high levels of commotion.
Look for a different headset if…
… you require more mobility within your desk area. The LH240 has a 3-foot cord, and the LH245XL has a 3.5-foot one. That’s enough to ensure that your headset won’t accidentally get unplugged during the day. However, if you like to roll around in your office chair or recline away from your phone or computer, you might want to seek out a headset that allows for more movement.
Executive Pro models
The 3rd and 4th headsets on this list are once again being put into one entry. They’re both Executive Pro models: the Harmony and the Melody. They each offer all of the functionality and reliability of an Executive Pro headset, so we’ll cover the majority of the details of them together.
Here are some of the standup features that make these headsets top-notch:
Maximum corded mobility: Each of these headsets has 8 feet of cord. Most wired headsets can only allow you to travel 2 to 3 feet from whatever device you’re connected to. With these models, you can move around your desk area without worrying about your headset being pulled off.
Easy use: These devices don’t have tons of bells and whistles, and for many people, that’s exactly why they’re great. If you’re looking for a headset with maximum functionality and minimum complication, these are the ones for you. They connect super easily, and there aren’t any unnecessary buttons that could potentially get confusing.
Quick Disconnect: These devices have Quick Disconnect cords included in the box. That’s a huge plus if you are the type of person who leaves their desk frequently throughout the day. It allows you to disconnect from your phone or computer without removing the headset or unplugging it from your device all together. It’s one of those features that seems small but makes your workday far more efficient by eliminating unnecessary hassle.
All that to say, these headsets are also distinct in their own ways. Here’s how:
Harmony:
Price: $129.99
Noise-canceling mic: yes
Configuration: dual-ear
Melody:
Price: $79.99
Noise-canceling mic: no
Configuration: single-ear
Look for a different headset if…
… you’re hoping for more advanced functionality. These headsets are super effective; they have great sound quality, a comfortable fit, and more mobility than most corded headsets offer. However, the simple design doesn’t have too many extra features, like CleanSound technology (mentioned above) or hearing protection (mentioned below).
Sennheiser DeskMate
Price: $194.95
Configuration: single-ear
The DeskMate is a great option for connecting to your corded desk phone. It’s got the sound quality of a Sennheiser headset without the high price of a wireless model. Here’s what makes it great:
Versatility: If you’re purchasing corded headsets in bulk, like for a larger office or call center, this is a great option. It’s received rave reviews from people in all different settings because of its adjustability and reliability.
Popularity: When we tested various corded headsets for Customer satisfaction, this model consistently came out on top. In fact, it wasn’t only popular with customers; Headsets.com’s very own Headset Advisors also testified to this device's comfort and sound quality.
Comfort: One of the most common things you’ll see in reviews of this headset is discussion of how comfortable it is. In fact, it’s even been dubbed the “most comfortable corded headset in the world.” It’s super lightweight, it’s got an ultra soft ear cushion, and the earpiece-less side of the band is equipped with a rubber bit that will keep the band from pushing into your head. This headset is so comfortable that you might even forget you’re wearing it!
Look for a different headset if…
… you’re on a budget. The DeskMate is the most expensive corded headset you’ll find on this list, coming in at just under $195. If you’re hoping to find a headset that’s more budget-friendly, we recommend checking out the other devices on this list.
Jabra Evolve2 40
Price: $137.95
Configuration: dual-ear
This corded Jabra model is made specifically for use with computers. It’s got a USB connector cable that can easily be plugged in to most computers. Here’s why we think it’s great:
Multi functionality: This device is good for more than just high quality calls. It’s also optimized for streaming content like music and videos. While some headsets only maintain their sound quality when making calls, this Jabra device is optimal no matter what you’re listening to.
Built-in busy light: Most of the wired headsets on this list are compatible with a busy light accessory. This one, however, has a busy light built right in to each of the earpieces. It turns on automatically when you’re on a call, so everyone around you knows to steer clear. This feature can also be activated manually if you just need some uninterrupted focus time.
Hearing protection: Thanks to Jabra’s SafeTone technology, you won’t have to worry about sudden spikes in volume messing with your hearing. The headset will automatically detect and level any potentially damaging volumes before they reach your ears. On top of that, it just makes your calls more enjoyable when you aren’t surprised by loud occurrences on the other end of the line.
Look for a different headset if…
… you plan on using your headset with a desk phone. This headset is made for use with a computer, hence the USB connector. To connect to a desk phone, you’d need an RJ9 connector. A USB to RJ9 adapter is not necessarily a common thing, so you’ll probably have trouble converting this computer-optimized headset into one that’s compatible with your corded desk phone.
We’re here when you need us
We hope that this article helped you sort out some of your options for corded headsets. These devices can be a great supplement to your office set up, and we want to make sure that you end up with the perfect one for you. If you’d like to talk through your options, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Headset Advisors. Just call 1-800-HEADSETS (432-3738) or email info@headsets.com.
