headsets

Hands-free phone gear

Headsets are devices worn on the head that combine headphones with a microphone, used for communication or audio.

The term covers everything from telephone operator equipment to gaming accessories to virtual reality gear.

A single unit is a headset: I need a new headset for work calls.

The word emphasizes the head-mounted, hands-free design.

communication

microphone

Audio input device

operator · hotline · helpline · telemarketing · broadcasting · interpreter · aviation · pilot · mute · push-to-talk

gaming

surround-sound

Multi-directional audio system

Twitch · Discord · immersive · RGB · USB · wireless · wired · cushions · lightweight · tournament

wireless

Bluetooth

Short-range wireless protocol

portable · pairing · connectivity · range · latency · earbuds · over-ear · dongle · RF · multipoint

audio

sound

Audible wave phenomenon

bass · treble · equalizer · hi-fi · surround · acoustics · driver · frequency · audiophile · decibels

VR

immersive

Fully engaging the senses

  • OculusCircular architectural opening
  • MetaRenamed social network conglomerate
  • PSVRSony's VR gaming headset

motion · controllers · passthrough · simulation · 360-degree · presence · cybersickness · strap · counterweight

noise-cancelling

active

In operation now

earcups · seal · commute · airplane · focus · concentration · quiet · block · reduction · hybrid

Categories
Opposites
audio output device form factor

headsetsspeakers

Audio output devices

loudspeakers · PA systems · public address systems · boomboxes · bullhorns

communication modality

headsetsdirect speech

Exact quoted utterance

shouting · hand signals

audio output form factor

headsetsearbuds

Tiny insertable audio devices

in-ear monitors · AirPods · wireless earbuds

Phrases
Family

headset

Familiarity
Top 50,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G