Listening and speaking - from now on

The basics: In contrast to headphones, which are designed exclusively for listening, a headset is also suitable for speaking. An additional microphone - usually integrated in the ear cup or in a movable microphone arm - allows you to communicate. Practical: there is no need for a handset, as we know it from the telephone, and you have both hands free. A Bluetooth headset in particular also connects wirelessly over short distances (up to 100 meters) with other devices such as a PC or smartphone. The advantage of this is that there is no annoying cable. Nevertheless, the majority of devices come with a 3.5 mm audio cable as an accessory so that the user has a choice if required.

In addition, all of the devices tested, without exception, are designed to be set up quickly and intuitively. Installation and recognition ran smoothly on all devices during testing and was completed within minutes. The same applies to operation and fine-tuning with the app via smartphone: all headsets, with the exception of the Freevoice model, offer this option. Without the need to register, additional customization options and adjustments can be made in this way.

Interesting, if not surprising: the majority of the devices reflect the fact that manufacturers of professional communication products seem to have discovered the "prosumer" for themselves. Some devices are characterized by a corresponding variety of functions and are suitable for use in both professional and private environments. MS Teams integration is also usually included in order to meet the increasing demand for video conferencing via the Microsoft platform. Some devices also have a busy light display, which indicates whether you are currently available or not. All headsets (with the exception of one) also offer the option of sending voice commands directly to the available voice assistants - such as Siri, Cortana, Google or Alexa.

In addition to the smartphone connection, range of functions and wearing comfort, the audio quality, battery life and noise-canceling features were also examined in metrologically complex, but very precise and reproducible procedures. A more detailed explanation of various selected test features can be found in the corresponding info box.

Initial considerations when buying

Many questions play a role when buying the right audio companion for everyday working life and depend heavily on the individual requirements and preferences of each person. Almost all of the devices tested were binaural, i.e. two-ear headsets. However, this is not necessarily the right wearing style for everyone. Those who place less importance on listening to music and shielding themselves from noise - and who may want to chat with colleagues more often - may be better served by a monaural device such as the Poly Voyager 4245 Office.

The preferred type of headphones is just as important: classic headphones can be divided into on-ears and over-ears - depending on whether they rest on the ear or completely enclose it. As the sound is not produced directly in the ear, on-ear and over-ear headphones often have a more differentiated and natural sound compared to in-ears. On the other hand, in-ears score particularly well in the lower tones and with their light weight. On-ears, on the other hand, do not always sit firmly on the ear, meaning that the sound can sometimes escape to the outside and possibly disturb people sitting next to you on the train or colleagues in the office. Over-ears, on the other hand, usually shield the sound well. However, they are often heavier than on-ears. Both over-ear versions are also usually fitted with extra padding to ensure a comfortable fit during prolonged use.

Numerous settings can be made on the Bluetooth headset via the app, as can be seen here using the example of "Sound+" from Jabra. In addition to the battery status, available updates and ready-made sound profiles for different requirements, the app usually also contains explanations on operation and functionality.

You can find the detailed test and further information at www.funkschau.de/office-kommunikation/volle- concentration.187190.html