You just got a remote customer service offer — or you're applying and want to be ready. The job listing says you need a headset. Here's exactly what to buy, and what to skip.
What Your Company Actually Needs
Before buying anything, check the technical requirements in your offer letter or job posting. Some companies provide a headset — Amazon VCS and Apple At-Home Advisor both ship equipment to you for free. → See which companies provide equipment and which don't
If your company requires you to source your own, here's what to look for. Most remote CS jobs require:
- Wired USB connection — Bluetooth and AirPods are usually prohibited
- Noise-cancelling microphone — background noise fails quality audits
- Over-ear or on-ear style — earbuds often don't meet voice quality standards
- On-device mute button — you need to be able to mute instantly during calls
Every pick below meets all four requirements.
Top Picks by Budget
Detailed Breakdown
What Companies Actually Say About Headsets
Here's a quick breakdown of the most popular remote CS employers and their equipment policies:
| Company | Provides headset? | If not — what they require |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon VCS | Yes — ships equipment | — |
| Apple At-Home | Yes — Apple headset provided | — |
| Concentrix | Sometimes — check offer | USB headset, noise-cancelling mic |
| TTEC | No | USB headset required before start |
| Teleperformance | No | USB headset, quiet workspace |
| Sutherland | Yes | — |
| Liveops | No | USB headset, landline or VoIP |
Pro tip
Always confirm with your hiring manager or in the onboarding documents before buying. If your company provides equipment, you'll get a better headset than anything on this list — for free.
What to Avoid
- AirPods / wireless earbuds — prohibited by most CS companies. Wired USB only.
- Gaming headsets — often work, but some are very large and heavy for 8-hour shifts
- Cheap no-name brands under $15 — mic quality will fail audio checks
- Bluetooth headsets — latency and battery issues, usually not allowed
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my existing headphones?
Maybe. If they're wired USB with a proper microphone and noise cancellation, yes. Standard music headphones with a 3.5mm jack usually don't meet the mic quality requirement. Test your audio on a call with a friend before your start date.
Does the headset need to be a specific brand?
No. As long as it's USB, wired, with a noise-cancelling mic, and meets your company's stated specs, any brand works. Logitech is widely used because it's reliable and affordable — not because companies require it.
I got the job but haven't started — should I buy one now?
Wait until you receive your onboarding documents. They'll specify exactly what you need (or tell you equipment is provided). Buying one now based on the job posting is fine if you want to be prepared, but don't spend more than $35 before confirming.
What if my company offers an equipment stipend?
Hold onto the receipt. Many companies pay $100–$500 for home office setup, reimbursed after your first month. Buy the headset, keep the receipt, submit for reimbursement once you start.
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