With the advanced culture of virtual work or work from home, virtual meetings, and ongoing collaborations, having a wireless headset capable of performing at a high-quality level has moved from an added convenience to a necessity. Plantronics – which is now part of Poly – has been a staple among an array of competitors, building durable and inclusive audio solutions for professionals.
In this guide, we will take a look at Plantronics wireless headsets, the technology they use, features, pros, cons, and how to select one.
Plantronics Wireless Headset History
Plantronics (or Poly) was founded in the early 1960s with the mission to create a lightweight headset for aviation. They eventually became known for making audio gear that was used in all of NASA’s Apollo missions! Today, the former Plantronics, along with Poly, has created enterprise-quality headsets for business calls, virtual conferencing, and mobile work.
When users started to work remotely, moving away from desk-based telephony, Plantronics led the charge into wireless headsets that utilized Bluetooth and DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunication) technologies for flexibility, security, quality, and range.
Explaining Core Technologies
1. DECT Wireless Technology
DECT is not like Bluetooth, as it operates on its own frequency band (1.9 GHz), reducing interference from Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or any other wireless signals. DECT solutions such as CS500 and Savi series provide:
- Up to a 350 ft (106 meter) roaming range
- Encrypted connection for private calls
- Multi-device switching (desk phone + PC)
2. Bluetooth Connectivity
Bluetooth Plantronics headsets are ideal for mobile and hybrid users as this technology provides support for:
- Smartphone, tablet and PC compatibility
- Typical range available of 30–98 ft (10–30 meters)
- Portable designs with integrated controls
3. Smart Sensors
Some Plantronics headsets, like the Voyager Focus UC, processes sensors that allow for detection when the headset is worn or removed. This feature allows for automatic pausing of music or muting a call when the headset is removed, reducing the number of accidental interruptions and improving efficiencies.
4. Advanced Noise Cancelation
Plantronics uses either dual or triple microphone arrays with digital signal processing (DSP) to reduce ambient noise. As a result of the real-world testing, we can say that:
Headphones, such as the Voyager 5200, reduce surrounding noise levels by up to 20 dB.
Benefits of Plantronics Wireless Headsets
1. Exceptional Voice Clarity
Plantronics headsets are made for professional communication via telecommunications. Using wideband audio and dynamic EQ, they create clear speech without distortion, even in raucous environments.
2. Effortless Connectivity
Switching between your transmission devices is smooth, especially with models that provide multipoint pairing that will allow users to take calls from their computer and phone without having to go manually through the disconnection process.
3. Battery Life
Most models have at least 8 to 13 hours of talk time and charging (with a cradle that doubles as a battery extender). Plantronics headsets are designed to handle back-to-back meetings and long shifts.
4. Comfort for All Day Wear
With weights as light as 21 grams (i.e. CS540), Plantronics headsets are designed to be readily wearable with ear cushions for comfort and can be used for a longer time. They come in over-ear, on-ear, and in-ear forms to fit the user’s preference.
5. Durability & Build Quality
Business headsets are designed to be durable for repeated usage scenarios. From reinforced hinges to sweat-resistant materials, they are designed for daily wear, meeting all the demands of the user.
Possible Drawbacks
Although Plantronics headsets are among the best on the market, every product has flaws. Here are a few drawbacks you may find:
Higher Price Point: DECT and multi-device models exceed $200–$300 in price, which is well above what casual users are looking to spend.
Multimedia Limitations: Audio is tuned for voice rather than for deep bass or concert-like audio when playing back music.
Base Station Requirement (for DECT models): Models CS520 or Savi 8220, require base stations, which limits portability.
Occasional Firmware Hiccups: There are some reports of hiccups while switching devices or pairing without updated firmware from certain users.
How Do I Choose the Right Plantronics Headset
When selecting the appropriate Plantronics headset, think about your primary use, whether office calls, gaming, or use with your mobile. In the workplace setting, a wireless headset with noise-canceling features is ideal, especially if you’re in a loud environment, while wired headsets are dependable.
Comfort is important for an extended use made for office environments, so consider if you prefer over-ear, on-ear, or in-ear style.Make sure the headset has a good quality microphone to make sure there is clear communication with your client, and for wireless headsets, check battery life. Be sure that the headset is compatible with devices such as mobile devices, PC, or office phone systems.
Plantronics has some very popular headsets such as the Voyager series, which are great for usage, when making calls with mobile devices and travel use. The Savi or CS series are especially suitable for office professionals and have a longer range and noise-canceling feature. Durability is also a very important consideration if you are traveling regularly, or in an active work environment.
For Desk Workers
Best Option: Savi 8220 or CS540
Effectiveness/Why: Long DECT range, connects to desk phones, great noise canceling features
For Users on the Go/The ability to make calls
Best Option: Voyager 5200
Effectiveness/Why: Lightweight, hands free voice assistant access, wind/noise blocking features, Bluetooth
For Hybrid Workers/Home Office
Best Option: Voyager Focus UC
Effectiveness/Why: Supports USB + Bluetooth, ANC noise canceling, smart sensors, stereo sound
For Call Centers
Best Option: EncorePro Wireless Series
Effectiveness/Why: Durable construction, DECT technology for high density environments. Having a manual will be an excellent resource for users to understand the terms, policies, and best practices for using Plantronics headsets. Manual could include clear headings, such as:
- Introduction: Overview of Plantronics products and product highlights.
- Getting Started: Step-by-step instructions for using the headset, including charging, pairing (for wireless headsets), and settings.
- Usage Tips: Information about how to optimize the use of the product (such as how to properly wear the headset for the best comfort – or tips to maximize battery life).
- Terms & Policies: Information about warranty, returns, exchanges, support contact information.
- Troubleshooting: Common challenges and solutions (audio issues, connection issues, battery not charging).
- Advanced Options: A deeper dive into features unique to a headset (e.g. noise-canceling microphones, multi-device pairing, product customization).
- Care & Maintenance: Information on how to keep the device clean and operational for as long as possible.
Conclusion
Plantronics wireless headsets are designed with the professional user in mind. High-level features, durability, and excellent clarity for calls or meetings. Whether you are moving around your office, working from a local coffee shop, or managing a call center, there’s probably a Plantronics model that aligns with your way of life while increasing your productivity. If you want to enhance your audio communication tools, Plantronics (Poly) wireless headsets would be a great option with many years of innovation backing them.
