Headsets and earbuds offer similar use cases but in very different form factors. Whether you’re fielding customer calls or collaborating with your team, having private audio is absolutely essential for facilitating clear, uninterrupted conversations. But which style is better?
As is the case with the vast majority of AV equipment, there’s no right or wrong choice. What works for one organization may not be ideal for the next.
Rather than tell you which style of ear monitors to choose, we’re going to highlight the pros and cons of each. That way you can make an informed decision based on your unique needs and preferences.
If you’re still not sure after comparing headsets vs. earbuds, give us a call. We’ll be happy to provide personalized guidance. Let’s dive in!
1. Audio Quality
If immersive, crystal-clear audio is your top priority, headsets are probably the best option. While today’s earbuds do offer impressive audio quality—they’re a far cry from the tinny earbuds of yesteryear—their design is still inherently limiting.
The larger size of headsets allows them to have larger drivers that produce a broader frequency range, especially bass response. Larger drivers also provide a more immersive, bigger soundstage that really captures the feeling of being in the room.
All of that said, we’re comparing headsets vs. earbuds for business purposes, so pristine audio quality may not be a major priority. After all, you’re typically listening to voices, not music.
Winner: Headsets
2. Convenience
The compact size of earbuds makes them incredibly convenient for hybrid workers. Because they’re so lightweight and portable, you can leave them in while performing other tasks like making copies, grabbing a coffee, or having a quick conversation with a colleague.
It’s worth noting that not all users require that level of agility. If you spend most of your workday seated at a desk, taking off a headset from time to time isn’t a big deal.
As you compare and contrast headsets vs. earbuds, consider whether or not you actually need mobility, and if the convenience is worth sacrificing other attributes.
Winner: Earbuds
3. Appearance
Headsets have a professional appearance that instills trust. They signify that you’re a dedicated professional rather than someone who just happened to jump on the call.
On the other hand, earbuds provide more of a natural look. The person on the screen may not even realize that you’re wearing them at all.
A headset may be the ideal style if you’re a customer service representative who interacts with customers and clients throughout the day. Earbuds may be more appropriate for managers or salespeople seeking more of a casual, laid-back appearance, similar to a face-to-face conversation.
Winner: Tie
4. Comfort
When comparing the comfort of headsets vs. earbuds, you may need to try both styles to see which one better gels with your ears.
Overall, headsets are widely regarded as the more comfortable option, but there are people who love earbuds because they’re so small and lightweight. On the other side of the coin, there are plenty of people who find in-ear monitors to be very uncomfortable.
Winner: Headsets
5. Noise Cancellation
If you need to reduce ambient sounds, you’ll want to choose a set with built-in noise cancellation.
Earbuds and over-ear styles naturally offer passive noise cancellation by blocking your ears, but sometimes that’s not enough.
When weighing the noise cancellation side of headsets vs. earbuds, headsets tend to be more full-featured. Noise canceling earbuds do exist, but the smaller form factor typically comes at the cost of robust technologies.
Winner: Headsets
6. Microphones
Some headsets have integrated microphones. Although we generally recommend using separate ear monitors and microphones because you have more control over the audio, some people do prefer having both in one unit.
Winner: Headsets
7. Battery Life
If you prefer wireless ear monitors, you may want to consider battery life. While each product will have its own battery life, the larger size of headsets makes it possible for them to fit larger batteries that last longer than the tiny batteries in earbuds.
Winner: Headsets
8. Price
When weighing the prices of headsets vs. earbuds, don’t look at the price tag alone. Consider what you’re getting for the money. Sometimes it’s worth spending a little more for a big upgrade.
At the same time, many budget-friendly headsets can deliver top-tier performance and features. For example, the Logitech Zone 305 is a very impressive wireless headset that’s available at a phenomenal price point relative to any other competitors in the space.
As a general rule, you’re usually going to spend more to get earbuds that have the same level of performance as headsets. And even then, the small form factor may not be able to compete—even if you buy top-of-the-line earbuds.
Simply put, headsets tend to provide more bang for your buck. If price is your main priority when comparing headsets vs. earbuds, you’re better off using a cheap headset than cheap earbuds.
Winner: Headsets
9. Functionality
Earbuds are as bare-bones as it gets. The minimalist design is appealing to some users. But if you’re seeking full-featured ear monitors, headsets are the clear choice.
For example, the aforementioned Logitech Zone 305 headset has a robust built-in interface that lets you adjust volume, start and end calls, play and pause music, and activate noise cancellation, as well as a microphone boom with a flip-to-mute function.
Winner: Headsets
10. Video Conferencing
If you’re mainly using your ear monitors for video conferencing, consider what a typical video call looks like as you compare headsets vs. earbuds. Are other participants using one or the other? If most participants are wearing one style, there’s probably a reason.
If you’re just getting started with video conferencing equipment in an office setting, we recommend headsets. They’re more hygienic, full-featured, and overall the more professional option.
Some headsets come equipped with helpful features for collaboration and system optimization, too. For example, the Logitech Zone 305 headset is capable of connecting up to six Logitech wireless peripherals through a single receiver.
In a home office setting, earbuds may be a more practical choice to save space, especially if you don’t take video calls often. In that case, you could compare headsets vs. earbuds and simply choose the one that appeals most to you.
Winner: Headsets
Find Your Perfect Solution
As you can see, we generally recommend video conferencing headsets. They’re the industry standard for a reason. We do also carry earbuds for those who prefer the smaller form factor.
The good news is that you can’t go wrong with any of our conference equipment and desktop conferencing solutions. We only carry best-in-class hardware from the industry’s most respected AV brands, so shop with confidence.
Need a little help choosing? Contact us for a free, 10-minute consultation with a highly qualified AV expert. Our audio visual specialists will help you weigh the pros and cons of headsets vs. earbuds and recommend the perfect solution. Level up your communications with Chester Springs AV!
