Headphones vs. Headsets: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 17, 2023
Headphones are devices for listening to audio; headsets are headphones with an added microphone for communication.
Key Differences
Headphones, as a general category, are designed primarily to provide audio output. This allows users to privately listen to music, movies, or any audio without disturbing those around them. Headsets, on the other hand, come equipped not just with speakers but also with a built-in microphone.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
This feature facilitates two-way communication, making them ideal for activities like gaming, calls, or professional communication. While headphones are often preferred by audiophiles for their sound quality and immersive experience, headsets cater to those who require a communication aspect along with audio listening.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
One might choose headphones for pure music enjoyment or noise isolation. In contrast, headsets are popular among gamers, telecommuters, and call center professionals.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Interestingly, both headphones and headsets can be found in a variety of styles including over-ear, on-ear, and in-ear configurations, with wired or wireless options.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Comparison Chart
Primary Function
Provide audio output.
Provide audio output and input (microphone).
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Oct 17, 2023
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Usage
Music, movies, audio listening.
Gaming, calls, professional communication.
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Oct 17, 2023
Popular Among
Audiophiles, music enthusiasts.
Gamers, telecommuters, call center professionals.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Connectivity Options
Wired or wireless.
Often wired for professional use, but also available wirelessly.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Headphones and Headsets Definitions
Headphones
Devices designed for private audio listening.
Sarah put on her headphones to drown out the noise.
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Oct 17, 2023
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Headsets
Tools for two-way communication in audio-rich environments.
Call center agents rely on headsets for clear communication.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Headphones
Tools for isolating ambient noise.
With noise-cancelling headphones, flights became more peaceful.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Headsets
Audio devices equipped with both speakers and a microphone.
During the gaming session, he communicated with his team using a headset.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 17, 2023
Headphones
Equipment used to convert electronic signals into sound.
Old vinyl records sounded warm and inviting through quality headphones.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Headsets
Wearable devices for combined listening and speaking.
Pilots use specialized headsets to communicate over loud engine noise.
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Oct 17, 2023
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Headphones
Personal audio speakers worn over or in the ears.
The headphones provided crystal clear sound.
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Oct 17, 2023
Headsets
Devices allowing hands-free communication.
During her workout, she answered calls using wireless headsets.
Janet White
Oct 17, 2023
Headphones
Wearable audio output devices.
High-impedance headphones require amplification for optimal sound.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Headsets
Personal audio equipment designed for interactive tasks.
Virtual meetings became easier with the use of headsets.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Headphones
A small speaker that is worn over or in the ear, often as one of a pair connected by a wire attached to a band running over the head
Sumera Saeed
Jan 07, 2016
Headsets
A headphone or pair of headphones, usually equipped with a microphone.
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Jan 07, 2016
Headphones
A pair of cushioned speakers worn over or in the ears so only the wearer can hear the sound.
Circumaural headphones enclose the ear, supra-aural headphones rest on the ear's surface, and earbuds are placed inside the ear.
Sumera Saeed
Jan 07, 2016
FAQs
Why do gamers prefer headsets over headphones?
Gamers prefer headsets because they facilitate communication with other players.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
Do all headphones come with built-in microphones?
No, only specific models, often referred to as headsets, come with built-in microphones.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Are headsets suitable for music listening?
Yes, many headsets offer good audio quality for music, though they might not match high-end headphones.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Which lasts longer, wireless headphones or wired ones?
While wired headphones don't rely on battery life, the longevity depends on build quality and usage.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
How do I maintain my headphones for longevity?
Regular cleaning, careful storage, and avoiding excessive volume can prolong headphone life.
Janet White
Oct 17, 2023
Why do DJs prefer over-ear headphones?
Over-ear headphones provide better sound isolation, crucial for DJs in loud environments.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
What's the primary function of headphones?
Headphones are primarily used for listening to audio.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Are headsets with boom microphones better?
Boom microphones often offer clearer voice pickup, but the best choice depends on the specific use-case.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Can headphones be used for calls?
While headphones provide audio output, without a built-in microphone, they can't be used for two-way communication.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Can I use headphones for gaming?
Yes, but without a microphone, you won't be able to communicate with other players.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
What sets headsets apart from headphones?
Headsets come with an added microphone for communication.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 17, 2023
Are all headphones noise-cancelling?
No, only specific headphones come with noise-cancelling features.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
How do wireless headsets connect to devices?
Most wireless headsets connect via Bluetooth or RF (radio frequency).
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Can headsets be used for studio recordings?
While some headsets offer good microphone quality, professional studio recordings often require specialized equipment.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Is it necessary for a headset to be connected via a wire for better quality?
Not necessarily; many high-quality wireless headsets offer excellent audio and microphone quality.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
What makes headsets ideal for call centers?
Headsets allow hands-free operation and clear two-way communication, vital for call centers.
Janet White
Oct 17, 2023
Why do pilots wear specific headsets?
Pilot headsets are designed to provide clear communication over loud engine noises and often have noise-cancelling features.
Janet White
Oct 17, 2023
Do all headsets come with noise-cancellation?
No, only specific headsets offer noise-cancellation features.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Are headphones generally more expensive than headsets?
Prices vary based on brand, features, and quality; headphones can be either cheaper or pricier than headsets.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Are in-ear headphones better than over-ear ones?
It's subjective; in-ear headphones are more portable, while over-ear ones can offer better sound isolation.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
