A good computer headset makes communication a breeze. Now that so much work happens remotely, you may find yourself on video or conference calls for hours at your home office desk. To make the experience comfortable and easy, you want to find the best headset for your needs by considering a few basic design components and features.

In terms of physical design, computer headsets fall into two basic categories: on-ear headsets and over-the-ear headsets. The first is more compact while the second prioritizes comfort for long-term wear. In addition, in-ear headsets are also an option. Although they are popular for their compact size, they are not, however, ideal for many hours of use.

In terms of features, one stands out above the rest: the noise-canceling headset. Active noise canceling works by detecting the frequencies of sound in the surrounding space and offsetting that sound with counter frequencies. This feature can make it easier to get things done even if you have a home office setup near a noisy part of your home.

Among computer headsets, gaming headsets fall into their own sub-category. That’s because gaming is a very specialized form of computer activity that can rely heavily on audio communication as well as atmospheric sound. To create the most immersive effect and for comfortable long-term wear, most gaming headsets use an over-the-ear design and have additional cushioning or support as well.

If choosing a gaming headset, one of the most important decisions you will make will be whether to go with a wired gaming headset or to enjoy greater mobility with a wireless gaming headset. The inconvenience of wireless is simply that the headset must be recharged every so often or get new batteries. Popular Bluetooth headsets are the most common form of wireless headset though there are other wireless technologies as well, each with its own pros and cons.

The same wired or wireless choice stands before ordinary computer headset users as well. Wireless headsets offer the benefit of going cord-free, but wired computer headsets will guarantee a connection that does not suddenly run out of charge in the middle of use.