Headsets for use with Microsoft Teams
Selecting the right headset or audio device for use with Microsoft Teams involves a balance between a number of factors including comfort, price, size, weight, cabled or wireless, and other features such as external mute and volume controls and multi-device support. Headsets, handsets, and speakerphones all provide viable options and you will need to pick the one that works for you. Microsoft provides a list of devices certified for use with Microsoft Teams. When buying, be sure to shop for the best deal as prices on the Microsoft page are often much higher than average. As with all purchases, follow all acquisition guidelines when purchasing a device.
The following table lists headset options that others in USGS have tested and found to be compatible with Teams. If purchasing a device not on the list or a device that is not Teams certified, always be sure to verify that the desired device incorporates a microphone.
Headsets
| Headset | Cost Range | Cabled or Wireless | Additional Resources |
| Earbuds: MuveAcousticts, Panasonic, Apple | $10-30 | 3.5mm TRRS mini jack | Volume controls on cable |
| Jeecoo USB Gaming Headset | $40 | USB | Controls on cable Noise cancellation |
| Plantronics Voyager Legend | $50+ | Bluetooth | Volume control on device |
| Logitech H570E * | $50-55 | USB | Controls on cord |
| Plantronics Blackwire C3225 | $45 | USB 3.5mm TRRS mini jack | Controls on USB cable Quick USB/3.5mm disconnect |
| Plantronics Savi 8200 Office and UC Series | $120 | Bluetooth DECT 6 | Multi-device connectivity (PC, mobile, desk phone) Active noise cancellation Controls on headset |
| Plantronics Voyager Focus | $150 | Bluetooth | Controls on headset Lift mic to mute Active noise cancellation |
| Logitech Personal Video Collaboration Kit | $290 | Bluetooth | Controls on headset Camera included |
* Low cost, good quality device used widely by online training services such as Learning Tree.
Headset features have a significant effect on your satisfaction with a device. Consider the following pros and cons when selecting a device.
Pros and Cons
Headset features have a significant effect on your satisfaction with a device. Consider the following pros and cons when selecting a device.
Headset Feature |
Pros |
Cons |
Microsoft Teams Certified |
On device controls are assured to work with Teams |
Cost may be minimally higher. |
Controls on device |
Answer and end calls, adjust volume and control mute from device |
Cost may be minimally higher. Controls may not work if device is not certified for Teams. |
Comfort * |
A comfortable headset can be used all day. |
An uncomfortable headset will likely be underused and a waste of money. |
Wired USB |
No batteries required. |
Limits your movements. |
Wired TRRS mini jack ** |
No batteries required. |
Device specific connections (may not work with all 3.5mm jacks). |
Wireless Bluetooth or RF |
Freedom of movement. |
Batteries must be routinely recharged, Bluetooth disconnect/reconnect RF susceptible to noise from other devices in close proximity. |
Active Noise Cancellation |
Reduces background noise for you and others on your call. |
Cost is higher. Not all ANC devices are the same and performance varies greatly. |
Name Brand Device |
Sound quality and features are often better than off-brand devices. |
Costs are usually higher. |
* Read reviews to determine if other customers find the headset comfortable to wear.
** Tip-Ring-Ring-Shank (TRRS) is a mini jack plug that enables audio and microphone in one connector.
Speakerphones
Teams compatible speakerphones can be very useful in locations that do not have a lot of background noise. If you have an isolated workspace, a speakerphone may be a good solution or option.
Speakerphone |
Cost |
Cabled or Wirless |
Additional Features |
$65 |
USB |
Controls on device |
|
$85 |
USB |
Controls on device |
|
$100 |
USB |
Controls on device |
|
$120 |
USB |
Controls on device |
|
$140 |
USB |
Controls on device |
* Tested in USGS and work well.