Whether you’re new to the world of teaching online or a grizzled veteran, you need reliable equipment for your class. Nothing’s worse than your headset popping with static and asking your kids to repeat over and over. Having a good headset and mic for online teaching makes you a better teacher.
How does a headset make you a better teacher?
Your classes run smoothly, parents won’t worry about your technical issues, and you can focus on what really matters: teaching your kids!
Having taught online for 18 months now (all while abroad), we’ve had our fair share of tech issues, especially with headsets, and want to give our two cents and recommendations on some good options for teachers.
In this post, we talk about the best headsets with microphones for online teachers. If you’re familiar with our blog then you know we always favor the budget side of things so we’re definitely going to cover some great cheap options.
Some Things to Note About Teaching and Headsets
Unfortunately, what headset and mic you need for teaching really depends on your company.
Let us give you an example.
We work for SayABC (we love it and tell you about it in our SayABC review) and they require a headset with an audio jack.
What does that mean?
An audio jack requirement means no bluetooth or USB headsets. That’s pretty unfortunate because bluetooth headsets are super popular but understandably, our company wants a hardwired connection for stability during the class.
Ok, we get that, but that’s not the case for everyone. So, the headsets we list below are going to be a little of both audio jack and USB because not every company has the same requirements.
Of course, do your research on what company you’re working for (or applying for).
Teaching Interview Tip: You’ll want to be rockin’ your headset during your interview to show the company that you’re serious about teaching and have reliable equipment. Bonus points!
So, what’s important in a headset and mic for teaching?
Honestly, we think you just need a solid and reliable headset that’s comfortable. Enough said! We’re going to list six that we think are going to do just that. Oh, and don’t forget about the computer too; we’ve got another budget-friendly list of the best computers for teaching English online.
Talking about headsets, it gets hard to differentiate too much between them after a certain point (like price, comfortability, etc…) but we want to give teachers plenty of options.
Do keep in mind when buying budget headsets with mics that you need to treat them with care! The better you treat them, the longer they’ll last!
So, let’s have a look!
Budget Headsets with Mic for Teaching Online
Logitech Stereo Headset H111
This headset is very similar to the Logitech headset we bought at a convenience store in Taipei, Taiwan as a cheap and professional-looking headset for our interview.
We’ve been using it for over a year and have never had any issues with sound or microphone quality.
It could be a little more comfortable and durable but it’s held up this whole time with no issues. And we’ve traveled A LOT!
Pros:
- Lightweight
- VERY Affordable
- Adjustable Microphone
- Audio Jack
- Not as sensitive to background noise as other headsets
Cons:
- Not the most comfortable
- Cheaply made
Logitech USB Headset H340
Logitech is always a trustworthy brand when it comes to tech. They make many things well and headsets are one of them.
For the budget-seeker teachers out there (woohoo!), the Logitech USB Headset H340 is a great option. You’re going to find reliability and even background noise reduction for a great price.
Speaking of background noise, that’s one of the key things to pay attention to. The last thing you want is your students and their parents complaining about noise on your end!
Pros:
- Noise-Cancelling
- Great Price
- Adjustable Headband
- Compatible with Mac and PC
Cons:
- A Little Flimsy
- USB Only
- Acceptable Audio Quality (good but not the best out there)
- Mic can only be on the right side
Sennheiser Mono USB Headset
This headset is super comfortable so it’s great for wearing hours on end. Reviewers talk about how the microphone and headphone quality is great so this would be an awesome option for online teachers.
Unfortunately, this headset is a little pricier than our other recommendations but it’s reliable and the quality is good. Sennheiser is a brand known for making high-quality headphones so it’s a great option if you’re willing to splurge a little.
Pros:
- Noise cancelling microphone
- Compatible with Mac and PC
- Lightweight
Cons:
- No remote mute
- Only one ear cover
Logitech 981-000541 G230 Stereo Gaming Headset with Mic
Another good buy from Logitech but with more perks than the H340, the G230 gaming headset with mic will give teachers nothing to fear.
On top of awesome sound quality (they’re made for gaming), teachers will find these to be very comfortable on the ears and head.
This is an option for teachers wanting to spend a little extra on a good headset and mic that doesn’t need replacing as soon as cheaper ones. However, this one lies in the mid-price range as its sound quality is marketed for gaming.
No doubt, you’ll hear your students loud and clear in the classroom when teaching online!
As you’ll see listed in the cons below, you need to be careful when handling this headset as it’s pretty fragile. However, if taken care of, this headset is a great buy!
Pros:
- Very comfortable
- Adjustable all around, including earpads
- Rich sound
Cons:
- Weak cables (don’t tug too hard!)
- Sensitive mic (don’t handle it too roughly)
- Plastic material
Avantree Superb Sound Wired On Ear Headphones with Microphone
If you’re the kind of teacher that likes to move around a lot then these are for you! The 5ft cord length gives you the ability to move around without worrying about accidentally unplugging or knocking your computer down. Plus, the reviews talk about the sound quality being great!
For under $30 USD, you’re going to be comfortable and happy in your classroom. Sounds like a sweet deal to us!
Pros:
- Budget headset
- Compatible with Mac and PC
- Audio Jack Cable
- Cord is 5ft
Cons:
- Bulky earpads
- Some complaints about them breaking after a few months
USB Headset with Microphone, Pander Noise Cancelling 3.5mm Computer PC Headset
This is a headset made for teaching. You will find the Pander Headset to be a reliable piece of equipment that allows the classroom to run smoothly. As an added bonus, you can use the 3.5mm jack or USB to plug in for teaching.
It’s hard to say no to a solid headset and mic with so many good reviews at such a low price!
Pros:
- HIFI Sound
- Noise Reduction
- Great price for quality ratio
- Comfortable Headband for Long Hours of Use
Cons:
- Longevity (depends on how you handle it)
- Some people complain they're too small for their head
Summary of the Best Budget Headsets with Mic for Online Teaching
We hope these six budget headsets have helped you in your search! As fellow online teachers, we know the importance of having quality headsets but we know that the price matters too.
As you can see, there are some great options out there for online teachers on a budget that will help enhance your classroom.
Happy teaching!
Have you ever thought about teaching online and traveling? It’s a fantastic way to see the world while making money. Check out our post on tips for teaching and traveling abroad!
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