If you’re going to teach online, the minimum requirements often include a modern computer, strong internet connection, and a teaching headset. Even for companies that don’t require one, a headset makes it much easier to teach, manage a classroom, and interact with your students.,
But how do you find the best headset for teaching online?
While most headsets for online teaching should give you the ability to hear and be heard by your students, some models will depend on your computer system and the type of teaching you’re doing. The best headset for online teaching will also allow you to focus, making it easier to stay on track and make the most of your class time.
Our top pick overall is the Logitech H390. It has the best design for teachers who want to stay focused on their classes.
The Best Headsets for Teaching Online
Logitech H390
The H390 has gained popularity over time and is a great option when it comes to online teaching equipment because it has a noise-canceling microphone that allows for clear communication between all parties.
In addition, it’s crafted to be very comfortable and has adjustable padded headbands and earpads. It’s also worth noting that the H390 will work with any system, meaning you’re good to go regardless of if you’re using a Mac or Windows machine.
What We Like:
- Best design that’s still affordable for any teaching budget
- Comes with a padded headband and adjustable earpads
- Compatible with both Mac and Windows systems
- Noise-canceling mic technology makes it easier for students to hear you
- Quality equipment that’s simple and easy to set up
What We Don’t Like:
- Doesn’t have the advanced features of some more expensive headsets
Logitech H110
The USB H110 might be a low-cost headsets available but it’s superior in comparison to other headsets in the same price category. Logitech USB H110 stereo headset comes with the universal serial bus jack which makes it compatible with any computer used for online teaching.
It is easy to use as you just plug in the 6ft cord and you are ready to go – it does not require any software specifications. As a teacher, an advantage of having a headset is that you’re able to move freely or stand when you get tired of sitting or need to adjust for your lesson.
What We Like:
- Super affordable headset for teachers on a budget
- Universal bus jack works with any computer or phone used
- Long 6-foot cord lets you move around more easily
- No software specs required for use
- Ready for use right out of the box
What We Don’t Like:
- No comfortable padding features
- Lacks noise cancellation for the mic
Sennheiser MB Pro
The Sennheiser MB Pro is a professional grade headset similar to headsets you would find in offices or call centers. It has great sound and microphone quality and good noise cancellation.
If you’re the kind of teacher that loves to move around and deliver active lessons, this headset is a great choice. It’s completely wireless, so you won’t feel chained to your desk by a chord during lessons.
What We Like:
- Best brand reputation
- Noise cancellation makes your voice clearer
- High-quality speakers and microphone for an HD experience
- Totally wireless connection to Bluetooth and PC for up to 15 hours
- 2 year warranty included
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited connectivity to multiple devices
Andrea Computer Headset
If you want your students to be able to hear you loud and clear during lessons, the Andrea Computer Headset may be right for you. It has a powerful noise-canceling microphone that will reduce background noise and also soften sounds like breathing and popping.
The microphone can also be adjusted so that you can position it perfectly on your face. It also has a comfortable and lightweight one-sided earphone which is great for staying cool whilst teaching.
What We Like:
- Wired USB headset plugs into any USB jack
- Flexible microphone wire lets you adjust your mic placement
- Noise cancellation reduces background noise and the sound of breathing
- Durable stainless steel headband will last through many hours of use
- Includes volume and mute control buttons for quick sound adjustment
What We Don’t Like:
- Stainless steel headphones can get tiring to wear after a while
Plantronics PLNAUDIO478
The PLNAUDIO478 is the best-looking headset out of this group (if that matters) and has the ability to fold up for traveling or storage. It also comes with an in-line remote attached to the cord that enables users to pick up, end, or adjust the volume for all calls and lessons.
In addition, not only does it work with both PCs and Macs, but it also offers HD sound, a noise-canceling microphone, and is Skype Certified.
What We Like:
- Fashionable headset that connects with PCs and Macs
- Capable of folding up for traveling and storage; great for traveling teachers
- In-line remote allows for easy control over volume, call answering, and hanging up
- HD sound quality with noise-cancelling mic technology
- Skype certified for teachers who use Skype for lessons
What We Don’t Like:
- One of the most expensive options on the list
Nulaxy USB Headset
The Nulaxy headset comes with a built-in sound card which allows it to filter noises and produce a crystal-clear transmission. There’s also a noise-cancelling mic that will ignore all background sounds, making it ideal for teachers who work in busy areas. You can connect the universal USB cord or jack cable to a phone, tablet, or PC.
The cable is more than 6 feet in length, making it easy to stand up and move around during lessons. There’s also an easily-accessible control box that lets you adjust your volume, mute your microphone, and mute your speakers. Rotatable ear pads allow you to get the perfect fit for your head.
Another advantage is the light weight. At just 3.7 ounces, this headset won’t make your neck ache as the day goes on and it’s ready to use right out of the box!
What We Like:
- Built-in sound card improves the HD speaker quality
- Versatile headphone jack plugs into tablets, phones, and PC laptops
- Inline volume and mute controls on a long cord
- Rotatable ear pads and adjustable headband for comfortable wear
- Lightweight enough to prevent fatigue during all-day use
What We Don’t Like:
- Lack of Mac connectivity options
Corsair HS50 Pro
The Corsair Pro is designed by gamers, for gamers. It has all the features you need to stay comfortable for hours of use including plush memory foam cups and an adjustable band. Meanwhile, the lightweight aluminum material is almost as sturdy as steel for years of use.
The completely detachable microphone has noise-cancelling qualities, reducing background sounds and wind. Soundwise, the model is outfitted with custom-tuned audio drivers that capture audio in the highest quality possible. You can use the headset with your phone and PC, as well as several gaming systems.
What We Like:
- Adjustable memory foam ear cups allow for hours of use
- Customized audio drivers offer HD sound
- Aluminum construction lasts for a long time while still being lightweight
- Compatible with PCs, phones, and gaming systems like PS4 and Xbox
What We Don’t Like:
- Lots of pre-owned options so shop carefully if you’re after a new model!
Cyber Acoustics Stereo Headset
The Cyber Acoustics headset is by far the most affordable option on our list and is built specifically for classroom use. In addition to teachers, students often use these in the computer lab and there’s even an option to buy them in bulk packs of 24.
A noise-cancelling microphone wipes out ambient background sounds. The design is durable enough to last as long as you take care of it properly. It’s also easy to maintain, as the comfortable ear pads are made from leatherette which means all you have to do is wipe them down occasionally.
What We Like:
- Super affordable
- Stereo headset with noise-cancelling mic
- Built specifically for online teaching
- Leatherette ear pads can be easily cleaned
- Reinforced cable and durable headset will last for years
- Comes with a dual Y-adapter plug
What We Don’t Like:
- Relatively low-quality audio output, though that keeps the pricing down
YouthWhisper Bone Conduction Headphones
Bone conduction headphones use an entirely new technology, delivering sound through your cheekbone instead of your eardrum. The headphones don’t need to cover your ears at all. This helps protect your hearing, and it also makes it much easier to move around. The wireless design doesn’t need to be plugged in.
This is also one of the lightest designs on the list, weighing just 1.06 ounces. In fact, it’s manufactured for hikers and runners. You’re unlikely to experience fatigue after all-day wear and you can get six hours of listening time and eight hours of talk time on one charge (charging takes about two hours).
If you have mild hearing loss, these headphones will make it so much easier to teach. You won’t have to struggle to decipher what your students are saying!
What We Like:
- Best for teachers who move around thanks to wireless open-ear design
- Bone conduction tech bypasses the eardrum to protect hearing
- Rotatable microphone allows for clear speech
- Lightweight enough for use outside of the classroom
- Battery capacity of 8 hours of talking time
What We Don’t Like:
- Best used in quiet environments since the ears aren’t covered
HyperX Cloud Flight – Wireless Gaming Headset
Like many gaming headsets, this model is a little pricey. But it also has the features that gamers look for in marathon sessions and works just as well with a PC as it does with a PS5. The on board audio and mic controls are intuitive enough to pick up with ease.
This also has one of the longest battery lifes on the list. You can use the headphones for a maximum of 30 hours before needing a new charge. The branded HyperX earpads are large and super comfortable, while the adjustable steel band makes a custom fit easy. Audio channels are clear whether you’re teaching classes, tutoring one-on-one, gaming, or listening to music.
What We Like:
- Most durable and technologically advanced headphones
- Detachable wireless design has a battery life of up to 30 hours
- Memory foam padding creates a comfortable fit
- Rotatable ear cups have LED lighting effects
- Noise cancellation mic functions in wireless mode
What We Don’t Like:
- Mic isn’t functional when the headphones are wired
- Lack of compatibility with Macs
Avantree Aria Pro aptX-HD Bluetooth 5.0 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
If you’re someone who’s constantly distracted by background noise, these headphones might be perfect for you. They use active noise cancelling technology to dampen the sounds around you. The headset connects wirelessly to Bluetooth devices, with HD sound technology that preserves audio during transmission.
The earpads are made from comfortable, padded leather. You can adjust the headband and use the custom clamping structure to get the most secure fit possible. Also included is an adjustable boom mic, so you can shift the direction of the sounds you pick up.
This model comes with a 24 month warranty from the manufacturer. You also get a lifetime of technical support, with a guarantee of response to questions within 8 hours. The company website has an FAQ and video guide as well.
What We Like:
- Wireless Bluetooth headset with superior HD sound processing
- Active noise cancelling to reduce background clamor
- Comfortable leather earpads and customizable clamping structure
- Flexible boom mic for a customizable fit
- 24 month warranty with a lifetime of technical support
What We Don’t Like:
- Battery life may be too short for a full day of teaching
- Device must have Bluetooth enabled to connect
Buying Guide for Teaching Headsets
Wired vs. Wireless
The choice between wired and wireless headphones is mainly one of personal preference.
Wired headphones restrict your movement slightly as they require you to plug a cable into a jack. However, they also tend to be the most versatile models that can work with most devices. In addition, they’re often inexpensive, and they don’t need charging.
Wireless headphones let you move around more freely. These connect to devices using Bluetooth or another connectivity app. If you do choose to invest in wireless headphones, pay attention to the battery life. Models like the HyperX Cloud Flight allow for up to 30 hours of use before needing to be recharged.
Mac vs. PC
Most headphones are configured for PC compatibility and not every PC-compatible headset will work with a Mac. If you don’t use a Mac, that’s fine – but if you do, make sure you get a device that’ll work with your computer.
Designs like the Logitech H390 are universally compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems. If you use a variety of different computers, or you’re not sure what type of OS you have, something like this is the best choice.
School Requirements
Every online teaching company has equipment requirements. Some might just require an internet connection, microphone, and camera. But others might require you to invest in an actual headset.
Make sure you look up the requirements of your teaching position. There may be technical requirements for your headset, like having Bluetooth or Skype enablement. Models like the Plantronics Plnaudio are certified for use with Skype.
Durability
Durable materials are key. You’re going to be using these headphones a lot, and you don’t want them to wear down. Look for padded ear cups with leather and memory foam. Avoid headsets made of plastic. Metal tends to hold up better over time.
Stainless steel models like the Andrea Headset will potentially last for years, but at the same time, steel can get heavy when you wear it for hours. There are also aluminum headsets like the Corsair Pro, which are much more lightweight.
Noise Cancellation
Noise cancellation features can apply to both your headphones and your mic. With your microphone, you can enable the speaker to transmit sounds only from one direction. That allows the mic to filter out all the background noise and focus on your voice. Some mics even have additional technology to cancel breathing sounds.
Headphones might cancel sound passively, by fitting tightly over your ears. This muffles the noises around you. Active noise cancellation models like the Avantree Aria use ambient technology to completely block out excess noise. They’re a good choice for teachers who work in crowded or distracting environments.
Teaching Headset FAQ
Do I Need a Headset for Online Teaching?
Most companies require that you have a headset in addition to a good internet connection and there are some pretty good reasons to invest in one that go beyond basic requirements.
For example, headsets are much easier to use than earbuds. They’re less likely to fall out or get lost in the middle of teaching. The included microphone also helps you speak more clearly than the average built-in PC mic will.
If you have the budget, you can even invest in models that cancel outside noise. That’s a great choice if you often find yourself distracted by background clamor.
Does having an online teaching headset help?
Yes, an online teaching headset helps. You’ll be able to hear your students more clearly, and they’ll be able to hear you. The better the headset technology, the clearer your communication will be.
Make sure that your headset is comfortable enough to wear all day and always follow the manufacturer instructions for taking care of the device.
How can I keep my headset in good condition?
Each headset should come with an instruction manual that explains how to operate it. Make sure you comply with any maintenance instructions written there.
There are also some simple tips you can follow. Get a storage case to protect the device when it isn’t in use. Make sure you never pull on the extension cord of a pair of wired headphones. Clean the earpieces frequently to keep them from getting sweaty and dirty.
Many headset models also come with a warranty, so if the equipment does break, you can get a repair or replacement.
Should I get a wired or wireless headset for online teaching?
There are advantages and disadvantages to each kind of teaching headset. The right choice will depend on your teaching style and personal needs.
Wired headsets don’t need to charge, so they’ll last all day with no trouble. They also tend to come at a lower price point which means you can get features like noise cancellation for less money.
Wireless headsets make it much easier to communicate from a distance. You can get up, move around, and relax. But they also run on battery power, and the charge might not last long enough to handle a full day of classes.
Wrapping Up
Before you decide on the best headset for teaching online, you should take into account a few factors. Consider whether you’ll need a wireless or wired system. Then look at whether you have a Mac or a PC. Do you need any extra features like noise cancellation?
The most important thing is that you and your students can communicate clearly. The more clearly you speak, the better they’ll understand their lessons. And the more clearly you can hear, the more efficiently you can answer questions. Look for models that will help with any distractions around you while amplifying your voice.
Once you know what you’re looking for, you can make an informed decision. Our overall top pick is the Logitech H390, thanks to the comfortable design and clear communication. This item also works with both Macs and PCs and is super affordable.
2 Responses
This may be a dumb question but…the logitech H390 looks good. However, my macbook pro does not have a normal usb port. Is there an adapter that I can purchase for this?
You need something like this https://amzn.to/3kubj1A – a USB adapter for the Apple USB C ports.