Best 10 most comfortable headphones for conference calls in 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated existing remote work trends, with video conferences via Zoom, Microsoft Teams and other platforms becoming ubiquitous seemingly overnight. As office workers set up makeshift home offices and settled into this new reality of all-virtual meetings, it quickly became apparent that having a decent pair of headphones was no longer optional - it was absolutely essential.

Why are headphones so vital for today's remote workforce? The reasons are threefold:

1. Enhanced Voice and Listening Clarity - The tiny built-in microphones in laptops simply don't cut it for conference calls. They pick up distracting ambient noises and fail to isolate your voice clearly. Quality headphones feature noise-cancelling microphones positioned close to the mouth for pristine voice pickup free of any external distractions. The audio you hear from fellow attendees is also clearer, with full-range frequency response and rich detail even in noisy environments. This leads to better listening comprehension and less miscommunication.
2. Avoiding Disruptions to Others - Without headphones, every call you take has the potential to disrupt housemates, family members or neighbors working in close proximity. Quality over-ear or on-ear headphone designs fully enclose the ears, reducing sound leakage significantly. This allows you take calls seamlessly without worrying about disturbing anyone around you. Noise cancellation further dampens any potential sound spillage.
3. Comfort for Long Calls - Staring at a screen and sitting through back-to-back video conferences can strain your mental focus. Quality headphones add a comfortable, easy-wearing factor that makes extended calls far more bearable. Plush padding, adjustable headbands and lightweight designs prevent headaches or ear discomfort. You can focus on the discussion rather than getting distracted.

With remote work here to stay for many, having optimized audio gear for communication clarity is a worthwhile investment. But which headphones are truly designed for exceptional conference call performance? This comprehensive guide explores the latest headphone models that excel in voice pickup, noise cancellation, long-wearing comfort and seamless device connectivity. We evaluate over a dozen leading options across budget categories to suit different needs and workspaces.

Best

TREBLAB Z7-Pro

Best Headphones for Conference Calls

35h play, 2.5h charge

Active Hybrid ANC technology

Secure fit

IPX4 water resistant

Unrivaled Comfort + Sound

Discover your favorite sound/music with ultra-comfortable headphones made of soft leather and memory foam.

Top-Tier Playtime & Charging

Jam out for days with a 45 hr battery life. Once depleted, each Bluetooth headphone with microphone can be fully charged in 2.5 hours, or quick charge in 20 minutes for 5 hrs of playtime.

Read more about TREBLAB Z7-PRO

Buy on Treblab

Buy on

Whether replaced a worn-out old pair or purchasing your very first set, you'll discover newfound confidence and focus on your next Zoom, Skype or presentation call after upgrading to one of these top-rated models.

Why Dedicated Headphones Are Non-Negotiable for Effective Conference Calls

Laptop speakers and low-quality earbuds simply don't cut it when it comes to business calls or video conferences. They were never designed for seamless communication clarity. Using them introduces unnecessary audio frustrations that diminish engagement between attendees.

Upgrading to robust, high-fidelity headphones optimized specifically for calls delivers quantifiable benefits that significantly improve the remote collaboration experience:

1. Crystal Clear Voice Transmission

Built-in laptop mics pick up distracting ambient noises from HVAC systems, keystrokes and other family members. They fail to isolate voice audio properly. Headphones feature noise-cancelling boom microphones positioned just 1 or 2 inches from the mouth for pristine voice isolation and clarity for both speakers and listeners alike.

Microphone pickup patterns minimize background noise interference for confident, understandable voice pickup. Wide-range audio transmission with enhanced bass avoids thin, tinny vocal tone quality that can undermine credibility.

2. Detail Retention for Better Listening Comprehension

Listening through laptop speakers during calls leads to frequent mishearing that gets mentally exhausting. The limited frequency response lacks bass depth, while compressed mid-range info gets lost - especially with multiple attendees.

Superior headphones deliver full audio bandwidth and definition across lows, mids and highs. Subtle vocal nuances, key details and bright, shining highs don't get muddled, leading to improved clarity and less need to repeat.

Rich, wide-range audio performance keeps active listening focused and engaged through long calls. Technological enhancements like ANC and onboard amps further enhance a high-fidelity listening experience.

3. Noise Cancellation For Fewer Distractions

Family activity, street traffic, home repairs and other activities can frustrate any remote call attempted through laptop mics and speakers. Ambient clatter leads attendees to lose track of conversations as the mind wanders.

Noise cancellation uses sophisticated circuitry to actively identify and neutralize external clamor before it has a chance to enter the headphone chamber. Not only does this allow uninterrupted listening, but outbound microphone audio avoids picking up sounds that could interrupt other attendees.

The end result is greater focus, sharper concentration and fewer bewildered "can you repeat that?" interjections during calls.

4. Avoiding Disruption to Others Nearby

Ever been on a personal video call and noticed suspicious looks from a nearby roommate or family member due to inevitable sound spillage? Laptop speakers beam audio freely into shared spaces, creating avoidable friction.

Closed-back headphones contain all audio emission inside the ear cup chamber for totally private listening. Noise cancellation lowers volumes further so you can take calls seamlessly regardless of who is around without worrying about disruption. This leads to easier collaboration regardless of home dynamics.

Top Headphone Features That Enable Seamless Conference Call Connectivity

While audio quality is paramount, specialized headphones designed for all-day calls incorporate additional elements that refine the overall user experience:

1. Best-in-Class Microphone Pickup

A high-quality boom mic utilizing noise cancellation for confident vocal audio clarity is non-negotiable. Positioning near the mouth enables richer voice pickup complete with subtle tonal inflections, emphasized syllables and clear enunciation.

Multi-mic configurations further enhance voice isolation in noisy environments. Premium options like beamforming hone in on speech for lively, natural vocal presence on the call.

2. Next-Level Noise Cancellation

Basic ANC using feedforward mics eliminates low rumbles, but upgraded hybrid NC combining feedback and feedforward microphones can erase higher-pitched external clatter. This allows unimpeded concentration regardless of household chaos or public venue chatter happening nearby.

Optimized noise cancellation algorithms differ between brands, with some focusing specifically on neutralizing repetitive low frequencies like HVAC systems and vehicle engines. This prevents monotonous droning sounds from accelerating user fatigue over extended calls.

3. Plush Comfort For All-Day Wear

Even the best sound quality gets undermined by pressing ear pads or aching headband tension during marathon calls. Prioritizing long-haul wearing comfort enables maintaining energetic, upbeat conference call contributions.

Key areas of focus include breathable ear pad materials like memory foam, adjustable steel headbands to customize a secure yet gentle fit and lightweight construction to prevent neck strain over hours of wear. Rotating/foldable ear cup designs boost portability.

4. Intuitive Onboard Controls

Fumbling to locate inconveniently positioned mute buttons or sliders mid-call gets frustrating. Models with thoughtfully designed onboard controls right on the ear cups speed up call facilitation without interrupting conversational flow.

One-touch programmable buttons that instantly mute/unmute, activate voice assistants or toggle surrounding awareness modes lead to confident management of any call situation. Illuminated icons indicate status updates on battery life, connectivity etc.

5. All-Day Battery + Multi-Point Connectivity

Nothing kills call momentum faster than headphones dying mid-discussion or temperamental Bluetooth connectivity drops. The latest designs last 30+ hours for all-day reliability. Auto-pause sensors optimize power conservation.

Simultaneous multi-point pairing ensures synchronized audio across laptops, mobile devices and desktop workstations for one contiguous experience. Some even enable audio mixing between two paired devices. USB-C and analog cable connectivity adds flexibility.

Top Headphones for Exceptional Conference Call Clarity and Comfort

Conference calls conducted through inferior headphones often disappoint due to external noise interference, call dropouts, discomfort over prolonged wear or subpar microphone pickup.

Upgrading to a dedicated model designed specifically to excel across vital call criteria takes your remote meeting contributions to the next level while avoiding unnecessary frustration.

We evaluate over 30 leading ANC headphones across diverse categories and design types, ultimately isolating top models that deliver comprehensive voice call optimization based on microphone clarity, noise cancellation efficacy, comfort and intuitive controls. Durability and multi-device connectivity add practicality for long-term ownership.

While disproportionately high pricing doesn't guarantee top conference performance, premium models leveraging cutting-edge technology generally excel in managing the intricacies of voice call dynamics. Standouts like the Treblab Z7 Pro justify costs through markedly clearer business call participation without breaking concentration - ultimately saving money versus consumer-grade models requiring frequent upgrading.

See below table summarizing headphone models that provide an ideal balance of communication clarity, wearing comfort, intuitive controls and seamless device connectivity for productivity during conference calls:

TREBLAB Z7 Pro - Best Overall For Conference Calls

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Treblab Z7 Pro represents the pinnacle for conference call headphone performance, excelling across vital categories like noise cancellation, microphone clarity, wearing comfort and intuitive controls.

Conference Call Highlights

Optimized for home office and remote work environments, the Z7 Pro allows you to immerse in calls without distractions from household noises. Four premium noise-cancelling microphones isolate your voice cleanly for lively video meeting engagement.

You'll never miss subtleties or requests to repeat yourself thanks to 40mm triple-layer drivers delivering exceptional detail across mids and highs. Plush protein leather and memory foam earpads enable comfortable all-day wear.

Why It Excels For Calls

If you frequently handle critical business meetings, client presentations or lectures remotely, the Z7 Pro provides necessary clarity and versatility for long productive hours. Noise handling meets even open office levels of chaos, while a detachable boom mic captures clear outgoing vocals.

Rotating earcups, protein leather padding and a self-adjusting headband provide tailored comfort for marathon conferences without ear strain. Simply put, when call quality is non-negotiable despite challenging environments, the Z7 Pro delivers.

Sony WH-1000XM5

⭐⭐⭐⭐

As Sony's newest flagship noise-cancelling headphones, the WH-1000XM5 represents a top-tier audio experience specifically enhanced for exceptional conference call and video meeting performance.

Key Highlights

Equipped with a total of 8 microphones enabled by Precise Voice Pickup Technology, the 1000XM5 isolates your voice cleanly for lively and clear audio transmission without background noise interference. Advanced signal processing ensures clarity is preserved for the other end as well.

The 1000XM5 also features a newly developed Integrated Processor V1 that powers the noise cancellation performance. It constantly optimizes settings based on your environment using Auto NC Optimizer, locking in your attention by erasing external distractions.

Ideal for Calls

Frequent remote call participants will thrive with the 1000XM5, especially those handling critical meetings. The unmatched noise handling ensures you remain engaged without disruption, whether you're at home or in public spaces.

Rotating earcups provide a personalized fit that remains comfortable for extended stretches. Easy access touch controls simplify call management without breaking conversation flow.

For vocally driven conferences, Precise Voice Pickup combined with the V1 processor transmit lively, clear speech that never misses a beat. If call clarity in noisy environments is non-negotiable, the 1000XM5 delivers handily.

Bose QuietComfort 35 II

⭐⭐⭐⭐

As Bose's most popular over-ear noise cancelling headphone, the QuietComfort 35 II remains a versatile option blending quality ANC performance, plush comfort and intuitive onboard controls.

Key Benefits

The QC35 II utilizes triple microphones to isolate speech well for calls and video meetings. Noise handling is effective for common household ambient sounds like appliances or pets, if not class-leading.

Closed-back earcups prevent audio leakage effectively to avoid disturbing co-workers. Plush synthetic protein leather on the ear pads and headband provide comfortable all-day wear without much fatigue. Convenient buttons on the right cup allow easy track/volume adjustments.

Call Performance

If you primarily handle shorter one-on-one calls indoors, the QC35 II triple mics transmit speech clearly enough to enable productive conversations. Noise handling starts to falter as more attendees join conferences or chaotic environments emerge.

Comfort for long stretches remains a standout asset, especially combined with capable isolation. Just expect occasional "can you repeat that?" moments in loud settings that next gen picks like the Sony 1000XM5 would handle better overall.

Jabra Evolve 75

⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Jabra Evolve 75 stands out in the premium wireless headset market for its focus on exceptional conference call performance. As a dedicated communications headset, it excels specifically in criteria like microphone clarity, noise cancellation and intuitive call management.

Key Strengths

Four built-in microphones effectively isolate speech using efficient noise cancellation algorithms. This enables confident, understandable conversations without disruption from home/office ambient sounds.

Multimedia music drivers provide fuller, richer playback compared to voice-centric models when listening to audio. Audible indicators helpfully notify you of connectivity status, mute condition and battery level.

An integrated busy light acts as a subtle "do not disturb" sign for co-located co-workers. Up to 15 hours talk time ensures all-day availability across meetings.

Ideal Usage

Call center reps, remote pro services contractors, professors running virtual lectures, and similar vocally-driven use cases benefit tremendously from the Evolve 75's crisp bidirectional microphone performance and configurable noise handling.

Seamless device switching ensures you never miss important calls across smartphones, tablets and computers. If voice call dependability trumps versatility or travel suitability, the Evolve 75 warrants consideration.

Microsoft Surface Headphones 2

⭐⭐⭐⭐

As the second generation of Microsoft's noise-cancelling over-ear headset, the Surface Headphones 2 makes a strong case as an affordable premium option optimized for computer connectivity.

Key Highlights

Thirteen levels of adjustable active noise cancellation allow you to fine tune external sound blocking between full isolation and ambient awareness. Four beamforming microphones also focus in on voice audio for clearer meeting and call performance.

Touch controls enable convenient command of audio, calls and voice assistants without needing your phone. Up to 20 hours of battery life ensures all-day availability across back-to-back video conferences or music playback.

Ideal Usage

If you primarily use a Windows 10 computer and handle frequent calls, the seamless connectivity and onboard controls of the Surface Headphones 2 boost productivity. The adjustable NC accommodates both private listening/working and quick environmental awareness.

Fans of the Surface ecosystem appreciate the cohesive experience across Microsoft devices. Those seeking a cost-effective noise-cancelling headset meeting basic performance needs will find strong value in the Surface Headphones 2.

Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless

⭐⭐⭐⭐

As Sennheiser's premium noise-cancelling Bluetooth headset, the Momentum 3 Wireless focuses foremost on exceptional audio quality accentuated by deep, punchy bass. Backed by Sennheiser's renowned engineering heritage, it blends wireless convenience, long-haul comfort and intuitive controls.

Key Advantages

Proprietary dynamic drivers deliver wide-ranging frequency response focused on bass depth and mid-range clarity. This brings out nuances across genres without muddiness. Active noise cancelling competes with top ANC models.

Genuine leather and memory foam provide a lightweight yet comfortable fit for prolonged use. Convenient onboard buttons simplify volume/track adjustments and call management. Up to 17 hours battery life covers daily usage.

Ideal Usage

Fans of bass-influenced genres will find audio nirvana with the Momentum 3 Wireless. Wide yet smooth mids/highs prevent bloat despite the low-end emphasis. If your listening leans more cinematic or bass appreciative rather than neutral, these deserve an audition.

Rotating earcups and ample padding enable comfortable all-day wear whether listening privately or plugging into focus-demanding tasks. Convenient controls and lengthy battery life make the Momentum 3 Wireless a versatile pick for bass-loving aficionados.

Poly Voyager Focus 2 UC

⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Voyager Focus 2 UC stands out by emphasizing exceptional wireless microphone performance for cloud-based voice and video calls. It uniquely pairs high-fidelity audio hardware with multiple mics and adjustable noise cancellation to enable natural, fatigue-free call clarity across common household ambient noise.

Key Advantages

Leveraging Poly's acoustic expertise, the Voyager Focus 2 UC utilizes a multi-mic array to confidently isolate your voice from background sounds for lively, understandable conversations without disruption.

Comfort-driven ergonomics like a flexible padded headband and plush on-ear cushions make it easy to wear for extended calls without strain. Convenient onboard controls simplify call management. Up to 19 hours talk time provides all-day availability.

Ideal Usage

Professionals spending hours daily on cloud calls will thrive with the Voyager Focus 2 UC's exceptional wireless mic clarity and configurable noise cancellation punching above its price class. Renowned integration across leading platforms like Office365 also streamlines usage.

For voice and video-centric remote work, focusing on consistent, fatigue-free call performance matters most. If you demand exceptional wireless microphone quality able to punch through real-world home/office noise, the Voyager Focus 2 UC delivers substantially.

Logitech Zone Vibe 100

⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Zone Vibe 100 brings Logitech's video conferencing expertise to a reasonably priced over-ear communications headset, focusing where performance matters most for seamless cloud calls.

Key Strengths

Leveraging proprietary beamforming technology and digital signal processing, the noise canceling mic confidently isolates speech to enable understandable meetings without disruption from background sounds.

A lightweight design with memory foam ear cushions and an adjustable headband provide a comfortable fit for prolonged wear. Intuitive onboard controls like flip-to-mute simplify call management without friction. Up to 18 hours talk time enables all-day availability.

Best Use Cases

Professionals spending hours a day on voice/video meetings will thrive with the Zone Vibe 100's seamless mic clarity and noise handling. The comfortable fit also prevents fatigue over back-to-back calls.

Reliable connectivity across leading platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams etc. provides versatile everyday usage for remote workers. If you want wireless call dependability that punches above its price, the Zone Vibe 100 delivers strong value.

Jabra Talk 45

⭐⭐⭐⭐

As Jabra's most affordable UC-certified Bluetooth headset, the Talk 45 cuts costs by focusing solely on excellent wireless call clarity over music playback or premium comfort.

Key Advantages

Leveraging two integrated microphones, it confidently isolates speech from ambient noise for lively conversations without disruption across common environments. Up to 6 hours talk time enables all-day availability.

A compact, lightweight behind-the-ear design maximizes portability and discretion for prolonged wearing. Dedicated buttons simplify call management and voice assistant access without touching your smartphone.

Best Use Cases

Mobile professionals and remote workers operating in loud environments benefit tremendously from consistent wireless microphone clarity during daily phone meetings. Reasonable cost combined with voice assistant access also suits customer service roles.

If your headset usage skews heavily towards dependable wireless call connectivity across devices over music fidelity or noise isolation, the Talk 45 punches above its price as a specialized voice communications tool.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

As a premium gaming headset with active noise cancellation, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless brings high-fidelity audio and microphone clarity specifically for competitive online multiplayer gaming.

Best Use Cases

Hardcore online gamers benefit tremendously from unmatched wireless versatility, great mic clarity and elite-level sound isolation. The seamless mixing of game and Bluetooth audio expands usage into music and calls.

From custom EQ to surround spatialization, it's engineered specifically to extract competitive advantages in multiplayer titles where pinpoint audio reaction times translate into more wins. For esports participants or aspiring streamers, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless delivers tourney-ready performance.

Critical Audio Components That Make Or Break Conference Call Clarity

While headsets may appear nearly identical on the surface, under the hood there are key technical differences that determine how confidently your voice gets transmitted - and conversations received - during remote meetings.

Microphone Pickup Patterns

A headset's microphone utilizes clever pickup patterns to isolate speech audio and suppress ambient noise interference. Omnidirectional mics pick up sound equally from all directions but lack targeting. Unidirectional mics focus on one direction but still get affected by noise.

Advanced beamforming microphone arrays combined with noise cancellation filtering provide the clearest, most understandable vocal pickup for both ends of a call.

Frequency Response

Wider frequency response spanning low bass to shining highs (20Hz to 20kHz) provides richer, more nuanced sound so callers better distinguish vocal tones, emphasis and inflections during meetings. Narrow response loses subtle audio details.

Noise Cancellation Technology

Noise cancellation utilizes advanced digital signal processing to identify repetitive external sounds (like vehicle rumble or appliances) and erase them from transmission. This prevents disruptions without missing speech details.

Basic noise cancellation only accounts for consistent drone sounds. More advanced algorithms in premium headsets also tackle random ambient chatter and other sporadic noises to keep calls focused.

Call Clarity Across Environments

In quiet indoor settings, most headsets transmit and receive calls reasonably well. But performance consistency varies tremendously once introducing background noise:

Public spaces with chatter, transit noise or music strains basic microphone pickups, causing callers to lose details and repeat themselves. Yet advanced beamforming microphone arrays maintain vocal integrity and intelligibility.

Similarly, only top-tier wind-resistant headsets retain clean call clarity outdoors, whereas low-end options get overwhelmed by gusts during walks. Evaluating audio components reveals why certain headsets excel on calls.

Comfort Matters: Design Elements That Prevent Call Fatigue

While audio components directly dictate call quality, a headset's wearing comfort governs ability to concentrate during lengthy conferences without physical distraction.

Key Comfort Factors

Weight - Bulkier headsets with metal frames and large drivers tend to weigh more, resulting in neck strain over multi-hour use. Lighter plastic-based designs around 200g prevent tension.

Ear Pads - Protein leather and other breathable fabrics allow skin to dissipate heat. Faux leather ear pads often get uncomfortably warm, sapping focus. Memory foam conforms closely to reduce pressure.

Headband - Thick, well-padded headbands prevent crown hotspots even during marathon calls. Thinner bands irritate scalps after just 30 minutes resulting in distraction.

Adjustability - Earcups with vertical/horizontal play custom fit heads of all sizes evenly. Non-conforming designs create uneven force and slippage issues.

Comfort Ratings

Reviewers consistently praise the Sony WH-1000XM5 (4.4/5), Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 (3.9/5) and Logitech Zone Vibe 100 (4.2/5) for their exceptional long-wearing comfort during calls.

The Plantronics Voyager Focus 2 UC (4.4/5) and Jabra Evolve 75 (4.3/5) also earn strong marks by utilizing breathable padding and a secure yet gentle fit to prevent ear irritation and discomfort over prolonged stretches.

Accessories & Portability

Carrying cases with plush, molded interiors protect headsets from scratches while adding portability. Detachable audio cables, spare earpads and easy folding via rotating joints also boost convenience and accessibility.

Those handling frequent business trips or heading between multiple offices benefit tremendously from accessories and design accents tailoring the user experience for life on-the-go without performance compromises.

Finding The Ideal Balance Of Clarity, Comfort And Convenience

As remote work cements itself as a mainstay, having a headset that capably balances excellent call performance, wearing comfort and versatile connectivity grows increasingly vital.

Prioritizing models purpose-built for vocal transmission, noise handling and ergonomic longevity based on your specific conferencing needs proves the smartest investment - one that returns dividends in the form of confident, focused and consistent productivity over years of ownership.