What is the difference between school headphones and school headsets?

Understanding the Difference between Headphones and Headsets for School

School headphones and school headsets are very popular these days, especially since most students are now enrolled in online classes. But even with their popularity, many people are still confused about these gadgets. Are they the same thing, or are they completely different devices? And if they are not the same, what’s the difference between them? If these questions have been bothering you (but you were too embarrassed to ask because you thought you were the only one who didn’t know), then you can now calm down. You are finally going to get the answers you’ve been waiting for.

The simplest answer would be this: a school headset usually comes with a microphone, and a school headphone does not. But take note that we used the word usually. This means there are also exceptions. In other words, there are no hard rules when it comes to differentiating these devices. The terminology is also not that strict. Some people use the phrase headphone and headset interchangeably, and it doesn’t matter. But for school purposes, it is reasonably clear that the difference is indeed in the microphone.

School Headphone versus School Headset: Which One to Buy?

The choice will depend on whether you will be using it for voice communication or not. If you use it only for listening, like for audiobooks or podcasts or whatnot, then a school headphone will be alright to buy. But if you are going to be participating in video chats or using interactive apps that entail voice input, which is likely the case, then a school headset is the better choice.

Factors to Consider When Buying a School Headset

Purchasing a school headset with a microphone seems like an effortless task, but that is not always the case. If you have never bought a headset before, you might be surprised at all the different options available.

Headset Structure

First, you have to decide on the structure of the headset that you prefer. There are two main options here. The first one has in-ear earbuds that fit snugly just inside your ears. These are more portable and generally cheaper. The competitive brands can come with good sound quality despite the small size of the earbuds. Some of them even have noise-canceling features.

The second is an over-ear headset that looks pretty much like the conventional headphones. This is the type of headset that sometimes comes with noise-canceling technology. This can be useful if you are in an environment that is not entirely quiet.

Type of Microphone

The next decision would be the kind of microphone attached to the headset. Earbuds typically have the in-line type of microphone. On the other hand, over-ear school headsets may have either an in-line microphone or a gooseneck microphone. The in-line mic hangs there while the gooseneck is adjustable and can be placed closer to the mouth for better audio clarity. It is for this reason that many prefer the gooseneck mic despite its slightly higher cost.

Connection Types

You will have to check the mobile device or computer that you will use with the headset to figure out the compatible connection type. Three principal connection types are used with school headsets. 

1. Dual Plug

There are two plugs in this connection: audio input and another for the audio output. This connection type is what you need for a computer that has two separate jacks for the headset and the mic.

2. USB Plug

This connection works with any computer that has a USB port.

3. TRRS Plug

This is the most commonly used connection type today. The TRRS is a 3.5mm plug that is compatible with smartphones and tablets and the newer laptops and computers.

For school headphones, three types of connections are also available.

1. USB Plug

As with the headsets, this type of connection is suitable for any desktop or laptop with a USB port.

2. 3mm Plug

This connection works for computers that have the jack for a 6.3mm plug. There are available adapters that can be used to make it compatible with devices without the necessary jack.

3. 5mm Plug

This is the standard plug used for headphones today. It will work correctly with any device with the standard 3.5mm headphone jack, which means practically all devices today.

4. Wireless

These are headphones that are not physically connected to your gadget, so they are great if you have to move around a lot. Wireless headphones connect to your device via Bluetooth.

Size of the User

You read that right. Gone are the days when headphones and headsets had a one-size-fits-all thing going on. These devices now come in various sizes that are just perfect for the person who uses them. This is particularly important for school headphones and school headsets, where users can be as young as kindergarten pupils.

If you are looking for a device for your preschooler, you will be happy to know that there are now child-sized headphones available. They are smaller in size than standard headphones, but some also come in fun colors. 

If you want to learn more about headphones or headsets for school, feel free to drop by the Learning Headphones website. We are the leading provider of school headphones and headsets today. You can browse through our wide selection of products at any time. Each of our products has a complete description and detailed specifications to quickly find what you are looking for. 

We currently offer heavily discounted bundle packs for headphones, headsets, and also earbuds. If you are buying for an entire class or the faculty members in your school, these budget packs are a great offer.

If you have further inquiries, we have live chat support on the website, where someone from our team will be happy to assist with whatever you need.