Head in the game
Thanks the near world-wide lock-down, an increasing amount of us are having to work from home. That's fine if you're childless and able to keep working at all, but most of us will be struggling to balance work and home life when spending all day at home. So take solace in this...
Yes, you now have to have several video calls a day, but at least Amazon are still delivering. That means you can buy one or all of the pairs of headphones we reviewed below, each a firm contender as your next Working from Home Headset.
Jabra Evolve 2 40
Part of Jabra's new Evolve2 range of comms and gaming headsets, the 40 represents the base-level entry model. Wired, and connecting to your computer via a standard USB-A, the Evolve2 40 feature 40mm drivers in the speakers and a three-mic set up on the arm.
Of the on-ear design, the cans themselves are soft, comfortable, and the whole headset is pleasingly adjustable. The mic arm can be muted by raising it vertically, and you also get volume control on the right ear. They really are as simple as a computer headsets can be, while also being of excellent quality. Tested over Skype, Zoom and Hangouts, conversations were clear and crisp, and the mic pick up was exceptional... just as we've come to expect from other Jabra headphone tech.
Thing is, you can also use these outside of calls as music headphones as the sound reproduction is that good. As long as you don't plan on wandering around your home office (coz they're wired, innit) they should see you sorted right up until the next pandemic. Sorry, that's a bit bleak.
Approx £90
Visit www.jabra.co.uk
Logitech Pro X
A far more beefier pair of cans from Logitech, the Pro X are first and foremost gaming headphones, but thanks to the choice of connections, they make great workers. If you're looking for over-ear immersion, the Pro X are for you. Large, soft cushions envelop your ears, while the flexible band can be adjusted for a comfy fit... despite the size and added weight of these things.
The microphone can be detached, as can the array of wires that are included in the box. The Pro X is also a wired headset, but wired for everything. You get a headphone wire for use with your PC, and another for use with a phone. There's a Y-splitter wire for separate headphone and microphone ports, and an external USB sound card for plugging the whole lot into. That gives you full headphone and mic use, with exceptional quality. Music, yes; gaming, obviously... but the rich clear sound of those video calls was amazing.
Oh, and you also get a extra set of ear cushions. If you don't like the standard memory foam leatherette pads, why not try the memory foam cloth pads, sir?
£110
Available from www.amazon.co.uk
HyperX Cloud Flight S
Going fully wireless, we also reduce the potential customer base to PC users only (and PS4 owners, for after work). The Cloud Flight S from HyperX are fully souped up, high tech gaming headphones with a detachable microphone and the ability to take your work calls wondering about. Like what geniuses do. Probably.
Connecting via 2.4GHz WiFi, with no headphone jack, USB, or Bluetooth as standard, these are designed to offer the fastest, most lagless audio you can get. Boasting up to 30 hours of battery life, you can keep talking on these non-stop. So if your boss has a meltdown you can keep him talking while everyone quickly sells their stock.
Uniquely, the HyperX Cloud Flight S can also charge on a Qi Wireless Charging Pad. HyperX do make one (which we'll review later), but they will also work with any other make of pad. And yes, if you don't own one, you can charge them with a USB wire. Like your granddad charges his Skype headset. Comfortable, innovative, but definitely not for everyone.
£149.99
Available from www.amazon.co.uk
Sades Snowwolf Headset
If the above prices are leaving you somewhat damp beneath your collar, relax. This budget set from Sades should have you feeling better again soon, combining a refreshingly low price with some actual quality features.
All in white, bar the silver and grey edges, the Snowwolf has been designed to offer maximum comfort without you having to remortgage your home. Wired, and compatible with any system with a headphone port, they feature a detachable microphone, volume controls on the left ear cup, fleece ear pad covers (yes, to make them like ear muffs!) and an over-ear design.
Large, chunky, but not overly heavy, these are a great budget consideration. Yes, the quality of both speakers and mic are nothing compared to the pricier options listed elsewhere in this feature, but for a price as low as this, we're very impressed.
£34.99
Available from www.amazon.co.uk
Jabra Evolve2 65
Another from Jabra's Evolve2 range, and this time we go fully wireless. The Evolve2 65 are a step up from the 40, essentially being the same headphones, but adding Bluetooth and wire-free charging. This means you can take your calls with an exceptional headset AND wander about firing off awesome business ideas.
What sets the 64 out from the 40 is that they serve as fully functioning Bluetooth headphones, connecting to any mobile device or computer. The level of sound reproduction was still very high, but now you can continue your important call while you toddle off to get another coffee. The Jabra Evolve2 65 also ship with a charging cradle to keep them full juiced up and ready to snatch when your Zoom call starts ringing.
We really loved these, and all the things we need for video calling was included here. Good enough sounding to keep using for both music and gaming after the call, and light enough to wear all day. They're definitely winners in our eyes, and the best of the bunch here.
Approx £200
Visit www.jabra.co.uk
BONUS: Edifier TWS1 Wireless Earbuds
Who says your work from home headset has to be a headset? Instead of wrapping your skull in a heavy, binding headband, why not opt for the smaller, lighter (and cooler) option? These tiny earbud headphones from Edifier are perfect for whatever wireless fun you want to have, using Bluetooth to hook up to a multitude of devices, and a low profile to keep them all but invisible.
The TWS1 come in a neat little charging case to keep them juiced up all day. The buds themselves are plastic, which although reducing the touchy-feely joy, does help to keep both weight and price low. Touch controls on the buds give you full control of your music and calls, and because they are so damn small and light, they just seem to stay put, right there in your ears.
Other sets of ear tips are included to ensure the right fit, so why the hell not? They sound decent, the microphone picks up your voice well, and they're a total steal. Check 'em out.
£32.99
Available from www.amazon.co.uk