It is okay to pay attention to connector type and connection type when looking to buy headsets for online teaching. But what truly defines the best headsets for online classes is their noise reduction and sound sensitivity.
The best headsets come with noise-canceling speakers, and unlike headphones, headsets come with attached microphones. The microphones are typically noise-canceling but sensitive to sound; they pick up sound waves within a broad range. So, whether the voices come as whispers or a shout, the mic will transmit.
How to Choose Headsets for Teaching Online
1. Lightweight and Easy-to-Wear
As an online teacher or student, you want headsets that are lightweight and easy to wear. You also wish to have headsets that look relatively regular and streamlined, not goofy or distracting.
2. Solid Audio Quality
A teaching headset has a good audio quality that works with video calls. You want to be able to hear everything that’s happening as if it is occurring right there in the room with you. There should be zero feedback or fuzziness.
3. Noise Cancelling Microphone
While it might not seem important, you’ll always want a noise-canceling microphone for virtual classes. Both online students and online tutors will have plenty of background noise to contend with when learning.
These microphones will be able to hear you and nothing else, including any pets or people chatting in the background.
If you already have a headset without a microphone, have a look at the best microphones for online teaching. You can use those separately for your headset.
4. Price Point
You don’t need a USD 250.00 headset to make the most of your virtual classes. Most of the high-quality options laid out today are low cost under USD 50.00 and work better for online learning than a variety of larger players.
5. Comfort
Overall, comfort is critical. You or the student in your life will be wearing these headsets for hours at a time. Make sure the headset you choose is adjustable, padded, and comes equipped with a durable yet comfortable frame. You might not think comfort is essential, but this is one aspect of a headset you shouldn’t skimp on.
Best Headsets at a Glance
- Budget Headset – Logitech J390 USB Headset
- Single-Sided Headset – Sennheiser Single-sided USB Headset
- Wireless Headset – Logitech H800 Bluetooth Wireless Headset
- Best Headset for Zoom Teaching – Yexatel USB Headset for Zoom Teaching
- Best Noise-canceling Microphone – Sennheiser Consumer Audio Headset
- Best for Multiple Head Sizes – Cyber Acoustics 3.5mm Stereo Headset with Headphones
- Best for Microphone Output– MKJ USB Headset with Microphone
All headsets come equipped with a clear and static-free built-in microphone that allows students to talk, participate, and contribute as much as they would in a normal classroom setting. Many are also designed to be more comfortable than a standard pair of earbuds or similar choices. This makes them ideal for long classes or days spent in front of a computer.
7 Best Headsets for Online Classes Reviewed
1. Logitech H390 USB Headset
The NEW Logitech H390 is best for teachers not looking to buy something too pricey. But beyond being a budget pair of headphones for online, it packs a lot of quality.
Logitech has long been respected as a pioneer in the technology field. They are famous for creating high-quality and reliable tech materials that can stand up to everyday life rigors. The new Logitech USB Headset is far from the exception. It will probably tick most of the boxes on your list when it comes to finding the headsets for teaching online.
For comfort, the Logitech H390 headset comes equipped with a padded headband and earpads. This is not standard in many headsets. While you might think a padded band isn’t exactly a necessity, you’ll be grateful for that added comfort after a few hours of attending virtual classes.
The ear pads on the headset are also padded and generously sized to block out external noise. We found that wearing this headset felt comfortable and easy over a long period of time.
For online teaching, we always recommend a headset with a noise-canceling microphone. Logitech does this well. Not only does the headset have a frequency response microphone with 100 Hertz, but the mic is rotating, noise-canceling, and bears a high sensitivity rating of 94 dBV/Pa +/ 3dB. Speaking into the movable noise canceling microphone allows for clear and concise communication with zero static.
While the Logitech H390 is pretty sensitive, the MKJ Headset exceeds its sensitivity by about 24 dB. So, it is less likely to pick up your voice than the MKJ in ambient noise, but more likely to record isolated loud sounds.
We enjoyed that the Logitech H390 headset included all of the most important controls right on the set itself. You’ll be able to dictate inline volume control and mute controls right from the side piece. This is a USB headset, which you will need to attach to your computer.
Those who want wireless headphones might not find this appealing, but most students will fair just fine with a standard USB plugin. It is also worth noting that this teaching headset is compatible with Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and later models. It is also compatible with MAC OS X 10.2.8 or later.
Pros
- It is relatively inexpensive.
- Pretty comfortable on the ears.
- It is compatible with various operating systems.
- Has a decent noise-canceling microphone.
- Fairly high sound sensitivity.
Cons
- Not the best noise-canceling headphones in the review. The headphones do a decent job of keep noise out, but they could be better.
2. Sennheiser Single-Sided USB Headset
The Sennheiser Single-Sided is best for teachers who prefer a pair of wired headphones they can wear only on one ear. For some teachers, having a pair of headphones that covers both ears is undesirable, so they would rather have one ear free.
Affordable, sleek, and easily worn for several hours at a time, the Single-Sided USB Headset with Microphone is designed for student/office use in mind. But because it comes with a USB cord, it is primarily a PC-compatible headset. In other words, wherever you intend to use it, you must have a PC or a device with a USB-A port.
The Sennheiser Headset is truly one of the best USB headsets for online teaching because they are suitable for all head sizes (even elementary students) and are comfortable to wear without feeling withdrawn from the outside world. These are single-sided design headsets that do allow for one open ear.
With that said, we enjoyed that this headset had a noise-canceling boom design. What does this mean for students and online teachers doing virtual classes? It means you get exact noise cancellation.
The position of your mic is precise, picking up only on your voice. You can also wear the headset and microphone on either the left or right side, whichever you prefer in terms of comfort and usability. The mic was very clear and free from any static or fuzz.
This is a headset with comfort in mind—soft ear cushions and a lightweight fit mean that students never feel pressure to accompany larger headsets. Even if online teaching makes up the bulk of the day, there won’t be any headset fatigue to contend with.
This headset is widely compatible with multiple devices in terms of connectivity, ideal for students and teachers. Not only do you get Windows and iOS compatibility, but you can also utilize this headset with Android and tablet-style PCs.
We found the only true downside to this particular headset is that they are not quite as sturdy as larger models. This may be problematic for younger students who may tend to play with their headset or microphone piece. The Cyber Acoustics 3.5 mm offers better more when it comes to durability.
Pros
- Excellent noise-canceling headphones.
- Compatible with various operating systems.
- High level of comfort since you have one ear free.
- Allows you to pay attention to your surroundings while listening through the headphones.
- They fit various head sizes.
Cons
- They could be more durable.
3. Logitech H800 Bluetooth Headsets
The Logitech H800 is best for teachers who need a wireless Bluetooth headset. Beyond being wireless, it has a battery life that exceeds the duration of a typical online class. So, once you charge it fully, you can go 6 to 8 hours non-stop.
When it comes to online classes, many students and online teachers alike enjoy the ability not to be bound by cords. Whether you want to pace a bit while thinking or feel unattached from your tech, Bluetooth headsets can be a game-changer, specifically the Logitech H800 Bluetooth Wireless Headset.
Why do we consider this one of the best headsets for online teaching? When we tried it on, it was pretty comfortable to wear. But more importantly, we could move around with this pair of wireless headphones. Also, thanks to the impressive battery life, we never had to worry that the headphones would go off during the session.
Beyond having a long battery life and offering a lot of comfort, this pair of Bluetooth headphones for online teaching is compatible with PC, smartphones, and tablets. This means that students and educators can easily connect and switch between devices as needed and move around without worrying about any cable.
We found that this Bluetooth headset has a remarkable 40-foot wireless range, meaning anyone can chat or take calls within 12 meters of their device.
The compatibility of the Logitech H800 with various devices offers it an edge over the MKJ Headset, Logitech H390, Yexatel, and the two Sennheiser headphones for online teaching. Even if you do not have a PC around, you can always use the Logitceh H800 with a smartphone.
Additionally, your headset can gain a bit of use outside of class time. These feature digital stereo sound quality thanks to unique laser-tuned speakers. Video calls are crystal clear, as is any sound output from videos or online meetings. The mic is also noise-canceling, meaning outside noise never gets in.
It is also worth noting that Logitech seems to have been quite thoughtful in terms of comfort. Not only are there padded ear cups, but the band itself is also padded.
Pros
- Allows you to move freely within 40 feet of the connected device.
- The microphone and headphones have decent sound sensitivity.
- The battery life is impressive.
- Since it does not have a USB connector, it is compatible with mobile and desktop devices.
- Microphone and headphones noise cancellation is decent.
- Features the option to connect the headphones with a USB cord. The same USB cord also charges the battery.
Cons
- Unlike wired headphones, you have to worry about battery life when using these headphones on wireless mode.
4. Yexatel Headset for Zoom Teaching
The Yexatel Headset is best for teachers who want a pair of headphones for online teaching that is compatible with various video communication platforms.
Online teaching can present many challenges. That’s why, in determining the best headset for online teaching, we wanted to touch upon every type of headset that could appeal to both students and teachers.
One of the most well-rounded offerings we came across is the Yexatel Zoom Class Headset for Online Teaching & Virtual Learning. With a noise-canceling microphone, any student or online teacher can enjoy crystal-good audio that picks up on voices with total clarity.
We loved that the noise-canceling feature did as intended. There was a clear reduction in background noise, and conversations on platforms such as Skype, Zoom, and Google Meet were free from any static or unwanted external noise.
Aside from noise cancellation, the Yexatel headset also comes equipped with soft ear cushions for longer online classes. The inline volume control makes it easy to change the volume, mute, and switch between mic/speaker at the tap of a button.
In terms of compatibility, this headset is great for online learning because it works across the full gamut of commonly used devices, including desktops, PCs, and tablets.
The cord was flexible and long, allowing plenty of options to move around and general comfort. Unlike the previous headsets, this headset has a lightweight body which makes it easy to wear for longer classes. You can easily use the headset for gaming, listening to music, or other priorities once online teaching is complete.
What were the major drawbacks of this headset? Well, in general, we found that the pros far outweigh any obvious cons. The sound was natural and clear, with minimal feedback.
We found that this headset was far easier to wear in terms of comfort than some of its pricier counterparts. The only con we could find? A few users said that the headband was too big for their heads.
Overall, this truly deserves a spot on the list of the top headsets for teaching online.
Pros
- Does well to suppress background noise.
- Compatible with various platforms.
- Compatible with various devices.
- Comfortable to wear.
- In-line volume control.
Cons
- It might not fit some head sizes.
5. Sennheiser Consumer Audio Headset
The Sennheiser Consumer is the best for teachers who want headphones with a microphone that offers excellent noise cancellation.
In our current online learning environment, apps such as Skype and Zoom are essential for teaching online. That’s why a good headset should be designed with such uses in mind.
If you’re primarily taking online teaching via an HD video chat platform, this Sennheiser Headset is a workhorse that will help students make the most of their virtual classes.
These are specifically designed with such platforms in mind, providing clear, consistent communication that never lags or throws feedback.
Built to last, these are durable headsets that should stand up to little learners or those who tend to play with their headsets. With padded ear cups and a nice adjustable headband, comfort is achieved at all times, even when sitting in a virtual classroom for long periods.
We found that the HD sound powered by a unique neodymium speaker lived up to the Sennheiser name and provided a very clear and natural voice/audio experience.
Like many of the above candidates, this Sennheiser headset does boast noise-canceling technology. All unwanted background noise becomes a blur, and Skype conversations or online calls are as clear as they would be on a standard phone.
Unlike other headsets, these do come with a very bendable and flexible boom arm. Your built-in microphone will always be where it needs to be, even if you tend to fidget or twist it out of place.
We truly enjoyed this headset for online teaching because it is a plug-and-play set that works via a standard USB connector. This also means you can use the headset on various devices as long as there is a USB port.
Unfortunately, this does mean that you will not be able to use the headset with a tablet or smartphone, as it does not have a 3.5 mm jack option like some of our other top choices.
With that said it would be difficult to beat the overall sound quality and durability that Sennheiser is bringing to the table.
Pros
- Excellent microphone and headphone noise cancellation.
- It offers high sound sensitivity. So, it can pick quiet voices even in ambient conditions.
- Easy to use.
- Comfortable to wear.
- Pretty durable.
Cons
- You can only use it with devices that have a USB-A port.
6. Cyber Acoustics 3.5mm Stereo Headset
Cyber Acoustics is best for teachers who are unable to find an online teaching headset of their size. Thanks to its leatherette ear pads and headband, you can adjust this pair of wired headphones to suit various heads.
Beyond being a good fit for various head sizes, the Cyber Acoustics 3.5mm offers remarkable sound quality. We particularly enjoyed its noise-canceling features. Although, we think everything would have been even better if it had a noise-canceling mic too or if the mic was much better at shutting out the noise.
The product description says the microphone only receives sound from a specific side. But we got some noise from other sides when using it. This is why we pointed out the need for a better noise-canceling mic.
The controls on this product are pretty straightforward. Whether you use it as headphones for online teaching at home or in a class, all you have to do is plug and play. Then, there is a little piece along the cord for you to control the volume.
As far as wired headsets go, Cyber Acoustics is certainly one of the best headphones for online teaching. But we would have been more impressed if its microphone quality was on par with the two Logitech online learning headphones we reviewed.
Pros
- You can adjust it to fit various head sizes.
- The foam ear cushions around the ear cups make this pair of noise-canceling headphones comfortable to wear.
- Great sound quality.
- In-line volume controls.
- It is relatively inexpensive.
- Uses a 3.5 mm jack, so it is compatible with more devices than the USB headphones.
Cons
- The overall sound sensitivity could be better.
7. MKJ USB Headset with Microphone
The MKJ Headset is the best for teachers who need wired headphones whose microphone offers top-notch output. Beyond producing exceptional sound quality from the mic, these headphones for online teaching are pretty flexible for various head sizes. Albeit, not as flexible as the Cyber Acoustics.
Like the Cyber Acoustics, the MKJ USB Headset is adjustable for use with multiple head sizes. But the adjustability is all thanks to the bendable steel headband, not the leatherette ear pads. Both the MKJ and Cyber Acoustics headphones feature about the same level of padding around their ear cups. So, the comfort is similar.
The MKJ gave us about the same noise-canceling as the other headphones for online teaching. But the microphone output was far better than regular. We barely had to repeat our statements with this pair of online teaching headsets.
Overall, the microphone boom makes it high-quality. But because it is a USB headset, you can only use it for your classes when working from a computer. Then again, that may not really be an issue as you are unlikely to teach without a PC or laptop.
Pros
- Both the mic and headphones offer excellent noise reduction.
- It is highly sensitive to sound. So, you will get great audio quality even in ambient conditions.
- Ear cups are cushioned for comfort.
- You never have to worry about battery life since it plug-and-play.
Cons
- It cannot work with devices that do not have a USB-A port.
Comparison Chart of the Best Headsets for Online Teaching
| Product Name | Connector Type | Connection Type | Microphone Noise Cancelation | Headphone Noise Cancelation | Sound Sensitivity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Logitech H390 USB Headset | USB | Wired | +++ | ++ | 94 dB | $ |
| Sennheiser Single-Sided USB Headset | USB | Wired | ++ | ++++ | - | $$ |
| Logitech H800 Bluetooth Headsets | USB | Wireless (Bluetooth) | +++ | +++ | 97 dB | $$ |
| Yexatel Headset for Zoom Teaching | USB | Wired | ++ | ++++ | - | $$$ |
| Sennheiser Consumer Audio Headset | USB | Wired | ++++ | ++++ | 113 dB | $$ |
| Cyber Acoustics 3.5mm Stereo Headset | 3.5mm Jack | Wired | ++++ | ++++ | - | $ |
| MKJ USB Headset with Microphone | USB | Wired | +++ | +++ | 118 dB | $$$ |
Our Final Thoughts
Now more than ever, teaching online has become a prominent part of many students’ day-to-day lives. Whether out of necessity or choice, there is no question that virtual classes and homeschooling are quickly becoming a part of education’s new normal.
For students of all grade levels, including college, making the most of teaching online often boils down to having the right equipment at an affordable price. Headsets and voice amplifiers have been a huge help in distance education.
Consider a headset that has a paramount sound quality and a nice noise-canceling microphone. Little learners may need a pair of lightweight headphones, while adults or college students may want a headset with a bit more heft.
Whichever headsets you choose, we vetted the best of the best to make the decision even easier for you. In this new world of teaching online via webcam and virtual classrooms, the right headset can make all the difference in your education quality.
Awesome Article. Thanks for giving all the information about earphones.