We recommend headsets with an overall score of at least 70%.

The overall score is made up of sound receiving (30%), sound sending (30%), fit and comfort (25%), durability (10%) and ease of use (5%).

Three panelists assess the sound quality of headphones, headset or earbuds receiving dialogue during a video conference. Dialogue is sent to devices using a broadcast quality microphone.

Three panelists assess the quality of microphone in the headset, headphones or earbuds that's sending dialogue during a video conference. Dialogue is received on a pair of reference grade headphones.

Three panelists put the headsets or headphones on and adjust them accordingly. They note comfort on the top of the head, on, around or in-ears and any movement during use. They also consider restrictiveness of wires and clips during movement. Wireless headsets receive a perfect score in the restrictiveness assessment.

Assessment of build quality, materials used, if they can be replaced and whether the cable is prone to tangling. We also undertake a basic stress test of joints, sliders and connection points in a typical office usage environment. Wireless headsets receive a perfect score in the cable tangling assessment.

Covers setup, connecting, software compatibility and an assessment of the onboard controls, if applicable.

'Tested models' are still available in shops. 'Discontinued models' may still be available online and second hand.

Controls built into the headset or dongle. These may be physical buttons or touch controls.

Some headphones and headsets can switch between wired and wireless mode with a removable cable. Note, some functions may not work in wired mode if the battery is dead.

The connection type used to connect the headset or headphones to your smartphone or computer.

Measured in centimeters if applicable.

In metres, as claimed by the manufacturer.

Whether you can replace the padding and protective material around the headset or headphones, or the silicon that keeps the earbud in place.

This includes connection converters, carry cases, cable splitters or extenders and so on.

Some headsets, headphones and earbuds have noise cancelling which is useful if you work in a noisy environment or shared space.

The microphone is either on an arm, a dongle or built into the headphones. Models with an arm usually allow for some adjustment to improve microphone placement.

Some microphones can isolate your voice while lowering the volume of environmental noise to improve conversation clarity.

In hours, per manufacturer specifications.

Some headphones and headsets have built-in support for digital assistants like Alexa and Google Home. These have more voice-command features that response faster than units without built-in support, as these use the microphone to issue commands to your smartphone or computer.