Headset vs. Handset — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 29, 2024
Headsets are wearable audio devices with a microphone for two-way communication, whereas handsets are traditional phone receivers handling both earpiece and microphone functions.
Difference Between Headset and Handset
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Key Differences
Headsets are designed for hands-free use, often used in settings where multitasking is necessary, such as in gaming or customer service. Whereas handsets are part of a telephone, typically cradled on a base and picked up to make or receive calls.
Headsets often connect via USB, 3.5mm jack, or Bluetooth, offering mobility and freedom during use. On the other hand, handsets are directly connected to their base either through a wire or docked on a wireless charging station, limiting mobility to the length of the cord or the range of the wireless signal.
While headsets can be mono (single ear) or stereo (both ears), providing options for immersive sound or staying aware of surroundings, handsets are universally mono, designed primarily for clear voice communication.
Headsets may feature noise-canceling technology to enhance audio clarity in noisy environments, whereas handsets rely on traditional sound technology without sophisticated noise reduction.
Headsets are adaptable with various devices, including computers, smartphones, and consoles, enhancing their versatility. In contrast, handsets are typically used only with their associated telephone systems.
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Comparison Chart
Design
Wearable, can be over-ear, on-ear, or in-ear
Hand-held, part of a telephone
Connectivity
USB, 3.5mm jack, Bluetooth
Wired to base, some are wireless within a range
Usage
Hands-free operation for multitasking
Picked up for use, limits multitasking
Audio Channels
Mono or stereo options available
Primarily mono
Technology
Often includes noise-canceling features
Generally lacks advanced audio enhancements
Compare with Definitions
Headset
Available in various styles, including in-ear, on-ear, or over-ear.
She preferred an over-ear headset for comfort during long listening sessions.
Handset
Traditionally wired to the phone's base, limiting mobility.
The cord on the handset was long enough to reach across the room.
Headset
Used in professional environments to facilitate clear communication in noisy settings.
The customer service agent used a noise-canceling headset to hear customers clearly.
Handset
A component of a telephone consisting of a speaker and microphone, held during conversation.
He picked up the handset to answer the ringing phone.
Headset
A device consisting of a microphone and one or more speakers, worn on the head for listening and speaking.
He wore a headset during the webinar to manage the presentation hands-free.
Handset
Essential for direct voice communication.
She used the handset for daily calls to clients, appreciating its simplicity.
Headset
Often used in gaming to provide an immersive audio experience along with communication capabilities.
She connected her gaming headset to better coordinate with her team.
Handset
Lacks modern features like Bluetooth connectivity or noise cancellation.
His old telephone handset had no extra features but worked well for basic calls.
Headset
Can be wireless, offering greater mobility and range of movement.
His wireless headset allowed him to move freely around the room during calls.
Handset
Used primarily in home and office settings.
The office phones were equipped with handsets that had programmable buttons.
Headset
A headphone or pair of headphones, usually equipped with a microphone.
Handset
A handset is a component of a telephone that a user holds to the ear and mouth to receive audio through the receiver and speak to the remote party via the built-in transmitter. In earlier telephones the transmitter was mounted directly on the telephone itself, which was attached to a wall at a convenient height or affixed to a desk stand.
Headset
A pair of headphones or earphones, or a singular headphone or earphone, typically with an attached microphone.
Handset
The handle-shaped part of a telephone, containing the receiver and transmitter and often a dial or push buttons.
Headset
Any electronic device worn on the head.
Handset
The part of a landline telephone containing both receiver and transmitter (and sometimes dial), held in the hand.
Headset
(cycling) On a bicycle, the system of bearings that connects the fork to the frame.
Handset
A mobile phone.
Headset
Receiver consisting of a pair of headphones
Handset
A hand-held device for remote control of a piece of equipment.
Handset
(typography) To typeset by hand.
Handsetting type
Handset
The mouthpiece and earpiece of a communications device mounted on a single handle; as, when the telephone rings, pick up the handset.
Handset
Telephone set with the mouthpiece and earpiece mounted on a single handle
Common Curiosities
Do headsets offer stereo sound?
Many headsets offer stereo sound, which is beneficial for immersive experiences, especially in gaming and music.
How do headsets support multitasking?
By allowing hands-free operation, headsets enable users to perform other tasks while listening to or speaking through the headset.
What is a headset?
A headset is an audio device worn on the head with a built-in microphone for listening and speaking.
What is a handset?
A handset is the part of a telephone that includes both the earpiece and the microphone, held during a call.
Are handsets wireless?
Some handsets are wireless, offering limited mobility within a certain range from the base station.
What are the common uses for handsets?
Handsets are commonly used for making and receiving calls, especially in traditional office and home environments.
Are handsets equipped with advanced audio technology?
Typically, handsets do not incorporate advanced audio technologies like noise cancellation; they focus on basic voice communication.
What should I consider when choosing between a headset and a handset?
Consider mobility needs, the environment where it will be used, and the level of audio quality required.
Can headsets be used with multiple devices?
Yes, headsets can connect to computers, phones, and gaming consoles, often featuring multiple connectivity options like USB and Bluetooth.
Do headsets come with noise-canceling technology?
Many modern headsets include noise-canceling technology to improve audio clarity, especially in noisy environments.
What is the advantage of a wireless headset over a wired handset?
Wireless headsets offer greater mobility and freedom of movement compared to wired handsets.
Can I use a headset for professional calls?
Yes, headsets are ideal for professional calls, particularly in environments where clear communication is crucial, such as call centers.
Can a headset replace a traditional telephone handset?
For most personal and many business communication needs, a headset can replace a traditional handset, especially as part of a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) system.
What are the ergonomic benefits of using a headset?
Using a headset can reduce neck strain and allow for better posture during long calls, providing ergonomic benefits over traditional handsets.
Are handsets becoming obsolete?
While the use of traditional handsets is declining in favor of more versatile communication devices like headsets and smartphones, they are still prevalent in many business settings.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
