Best Headphones for School from HP
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Even with the worst of COVID-19 behind us, more and more students are opting to learn remotely, whether that be from home, the library, or the coffee shop down the street. That means students will need a headset that’s just as powerful and versatile as they are.
HP has long been known for our high-quality computers and peripherals. We saw the need for a serious overhaul in the world of telecommunication accessories - so we teamed up with two other equally legendary partners: HyperX for top-notch gaming gear; and Poly for powerful teleconferencing equipment.
High-quality headphones are more accessible and affordable than ever before. But these days, with so many options available, choosing the right headset can be overwhelming - especially if you don’t know much about audio technology. Luckily, you don’t have to be an expert audiophile to make an informed decision when selecting a headset.
You can also find all you'll need for the school year, whether you're a student or teacher, on our HP Back to School Guide, featuring bundles and curated PC and accessory options picked for your specific education needs. For special discounts every day of up to 40% on tech for school, join the HP Education Store Program - no student ID is required!
Essential headphone features
Here are a few essential features to keep in mind when shopping for a new pair of headphones.
Wired or wireless?
Wireless headphones have gotten quite popular in the last few years - there’s no need to worry about a cord getting tangled up in your pocket or snagged on something while on the move. Wireless options are also more versatile than ever before, with longer ranges and battery life, as well as high-quality audio technology.
But if you don’t mind some light cable management, there are many pros to wired headphones. You’ll never have to worry about running out of battery life, and there won’t be any latency since the headphones are wired directly into your device.
Thankfully, more and more headphones have both wired and wireless functionality, making this choice less common than before.
Form factor: earbuds or headphones?
Unless this is your first time buying a headset, you probably already have a preference between earbuds and over-the-ear headphones. But have you ever stopped to consider the differences between the two form factors?
Traditionally, the biggest difference between headphones and earbuds was sound quality, particularly depth. Since headphones have larger sound drivers, they’ve typically provided a broader, fuller sound compared to the more compact alternative.
Conversely, since earbuds sit directly in the ear canal, they don’t need to be as powerful to provide a satisfactory listening experience. Because of that, they’re typically more affordable.
Audio specs: speakers and microphones
If you want to get a little more technical, here are some specifications to consider when it comes to microphone and speaker quality.
Speaker quality
In audio playback, the element responsible for producing sound is known as the driver. Headphones have two drivers: one on the left side, and one on the right. The driver size has an impact on audio quality: larger headphones will have stronger bass and better overall sound quality.
Another important factor in a speaker’s quality is its frequency response, which represents the full range of sound a speaker can accurately reproduce. A wider frequency response allows for better clarity and detail, especially in media playback.
Also, keep in mind that certain models are tuned for specific uses. There are many options with a heavier bass for music and media playback, for example.
Microphone quality
The two main types of microphones you’ll find in headsets are unidirectional and omnidirectional, which can record in a single direction or multiple directions, respectively. Unidirectional microphones are fine for basic, everyday use, while omnidirectional microphones are more dynamic and capable of more advanced features. Some headsets even have multi-microphone arrays for dynamic noise reduction and more.
The best HP headphones for school (and more)
Between HP, Poly, and HyperX, there’s a high-quality, versatile option for every student out there: from gamers to music lovers, and everyone in between - and each product will provide a top-notch virtual learning experience.
HyperX Cloud Earbuds
If you’re a student looking to save money without sacrificing audio quality, look no further than the HyperX Cloud traditional wired earbuds. They’re especially great for students who are gamers. In fact, they were specially designed for the Nintendo Switch, and they feature a 90-degree angled plug, so it remains unobtrusive on the go.
But don’t be fooled: these earbuds are perfect for all types of students, gamers, and beyond. They’re also compatible with any device with a standard 3.5 mm headphone jack, and the slim in-line microphone is fit for general, everyday use, whether you’re communicating with your team in Fortnite or organizing your peers for a group project. It even features a multifunction button for answering and ending phone calls, controlling media, and more.
Featured specifications:
- Cable length: 3.93’
- Microphone: Electret condenser
- Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Driver type: Custom dynamic 14 mm with neodymium magnets
- Compatibility: PC, Mobile, Nintendo Switch
HyperX Cloud MIX Buds Wireless Headphones
Lower-quality wireless earbuds might hinder your gaming experience with latency, or lag, which can cause the audio to be a few seconds behind the visuals. Luckily, this isn’t an issue with the HyperX Cloud MIX Buds, which feature a low-latency 2.4 GHz mode that eliminates this issue.
Plus, you’ll enjoy immersive DTS Headphone:X® virtual 3D audio and a wireless range of up to 20 meters. The earbuds have up to 10 hours of battery life, and you can charge them with an additional 33 hours of listening time using the included charging case, so you'll have plenty of power for gaming sessions, virtual classes, or conference calls.
These true wireless earbuds provide a personalized fit with three ear tip sizes and come with a convenient carrying case. Compatible with PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices, the HyperX Cloud MIX Buds are designed for ultimate versatility, maximum comfort, and superior clarity.
Featured specifications:
- Microphone: MEMS
- Frequency response: 10 Hz – 20.4 kHz
- Wireless type: Bluetooth
- Driver type: Dynamic 12 mm
- Compatibility: PC, Xbox, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Switch, Mobile
Poly Voyager Free 60 UC Carbon Black Earbuds
For power users and students in constant communication, unleash productivity and clarity with the feature-packed Poly Voyager Free 60 UC Carbon Black Earbuds. These advanced earbuds feature a three-mic array with advanced sidetone technology that allows you to hear your own voice and regulate your volume appropriately. It also enables hybrid active noise cancellation and transparency mode, so you have full control over your audio experience.
With up to 16.5 hours of battery life (plus 11 extra hours with the included charging case), you can stay connected and productive all day. Enjoy wireless range up to 30 meters, and compatibility with PCs, smartphones, and more. Plus, stay informed with voice alerts and effortlessly switch between two paired devices. Designed for all-day wear, these earbuds are perfect companions for work and play, delivering superb sound quality, connectivity, and comfort.
Featured specifications:
- Button user controls: Call Answer/End
- Microphone: MEMS
- Frequency response: 200 Hz - 6.8 kHz (speech mode) 20 Hz - 20 kHz (media mode)
- Wireless type: Bluetooth 5.3
- Driver type: 10 mm
- Compatibility: PC, Xbox, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Switch, Mobile
HP Bluetooth Headset 500
But not everyone prefers earbuds for making calls or listening to music. If you’re looking for an affordable pair of over-ear headphones, consider the HP Bluetooth Headset 500. Stay connected and immersed in your audio with this simple, lightweight solution for everyday communication and media playback.
With up to 20 hours of battery life, these headphones are perfect for on-the-go students, whether you’re communicating via a video call or winding down with some tunes at the end of a long day. The built-in discrete microphone offers high-quality recording capabilities, and the Digital Signal Processor cuts down on distracting background noise.
Featured specifications:
- Compatibility: PC, Xbox, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Switch, Mobile
HyperX Cloud II Wireless Gaming Headset
While there are plenty of great earbuds available for the student gamer, for a truly immersive experience, you need over-the-ear headphones with simulated 3D audio. For that, look no further than the HyperX Cloud II Wireless gaming headset. Enjoy ultimate comfort with HyperX signature memory foam and premium leatherette. The low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless connection offers low-latency gaming freedom, and the 20-meter wireless range allows you to stay connected even while moving around.
The durable aluminum frame ensures a secure fit, and the noise-canceling detachable mic with LED mute indicator keeps your communications crystal clear. Compatible with PC, PS5, and PS4 via USB wireless adapter, this headset delivers unmatched performance for all your learning experiences and gaming adventures.
Featured specifications:
- Microphone: Electret condenser microphone
- Frequency response: 15 Hz – 20 kHz
- Compatibility: PC, Xbox, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Switch, Mobile
Poly Voyager 8200 USB-C Black Headset
Enhance your work productivity with the Voyager 8200 UC Bluetooth headset. Its active noise canceling and boomless dual-paired microphone design eliminate distractions, while the soft leatherette cushions ensure all-day comfort. Enjoy professional-grade audio with hi-fi (high fidelity) stereo and dual-mode ANC for crystal-clear sound.
Stay connected with multi-device connectivity and pair up to eight devices simultaneously with the BT600 Bluetooth adapter. With up to 24 hours of wireless use, you can focus on calls, playlists, or work tasks wherever you go. Embrace the perfect blend of style and performance for your workday with these versatile and modern headphones.
Featured specifications:
- Microphones: 4 omnidirectional MEMS; 2 omnidirectional electret condenser
- Driver size: 44 mm
- Speaker bandwidth: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Bluetooth version: 5.0
- Connection: USB Type-C, Bluetooth
- Charge time: 2.5 Hours
- Acoustic protection technology: SoundGuard Digital
- Compatibility: PCs with available Bluetooth technology
Summary
In conclusion, HP offers a wide range of high-quality headphones perfect for students, whether they are learning remotely or on the move. The diverse options cater to different preferences and needs - from gamers to music lovers and everyone in between. With HP's exceptional headphones, students can stay connected and engaged.
