Using a wired USB or jack headset works well when dictating to speech recognition software but can be an annoyance being tethered and not able to move about.
Wireless headsets give much more freedom and mobility, and are more ideal for those who do a lot of dictating.
Some headphones work better compared to others and are built for speech dictation.
Of course, be sure they are compatible with the operating system you are using such as a Windows or Mac.
With this in mind below is our picks for best wireless headsets for dictating to speech recognition software.
As always be sure to read reviews on Amazon, forums, or elsewhere to be sure a unit is the right pick for you.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Our Picks for Best Wireless Headphones for Speech Recognition
- Logitech H820e
- iTeknic IK-BH002
- Plantronics Voyager
- Sennheiser
Logitech H820e Wireless Dual Headset
Logitech makes this wireless set that works with a base station and is USB.
It uses a base station that plugs into a USB port and transmits wirelessly.
They have good range at up-to 300 feet and work on many types of systems.
The battery life is rated for up-to 10 hours.
Logitech is a well known company that makes many good headsets.
Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, iTeknic [Upgraded] Bluetooth Headphones with Microphone Deep Bass Wireless Headphones Over Ear 30 Hours Playtime for TV Travel Work Cellphone
The iTeknic IK-BH002 is a Bluetooth unit that works well with speech dictation.
Bluetooth units have a rated range of 30-33 feet but often need to be closer with speech dictation to get the best accuracy.
Since the iTeknic IK-BH002 uses Bluetooth it can Pair with many devices such as smartphones, iOS devices, and a PC with built in Bluetooth.
If a PC is used be sure it has built-in Bluetooth.
Plantronics Voyager Legend UC Bluetooth Headset – Retail Packaging – Black
If your looking for a Bluetooth option Plantronics makes this nice unit.
Bluetooth doesn’t have the range other wireless protocols have but is widely used from smartphones to laptops.
The built-in noise cancellation works very well and helps get rid of interference from outside noise that may enter the microphone.
Sennheiser SD Pro 1 (506007) – Single-Sided Dual Connectivity Wireless DECT Headset for Desk Phone & Softphone/PC Connection, Ultra Noise-Cancelling Microphone (Black)
Sennheiser also makes many good headsets including this unit which uses DECT technology.
Since it uses DECT it can also pair with many cordless telephones but more importantly has good range.
If you have like to walk away from you computer and still be able to dictate than DECT often has the best technology.
Types of Wireless Headset Technologies
Noise Cancellation
Sound quality is important, for this reason background noise can effect the output. Noise cancellation headsets are often used to help eliminate this problem.
Noise cancellation reduces noise from a distance that may be picked up by the microphone which helps get rid of errors.
DECT
DECT stands for Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications and is commonly used with cordless phones.
Since it was setup as a wireless protocol for voice it also works well with headsets and is widely used.
DECT headphones can also be used with many cordless phones since the protocol is the same. Even though there can be some differences between manufactures for the most part they are interchangeable.
Many top brand headsets use DECT technology to help get the clearest signal to a computer.
2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi Frequencies
While DECT technology works well, the frequencies can often vary between Countries.
For this reason when using WiFi frequencies there will be less compatibility problems, especially for those who travel a lot.
2.4GHz and 5GHz are the frequencies used by WiFi so they may be prone to interference if within a crowded wireless location.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a good option but only at a short distance.
Most Bluetooth voice communication will max out at 30 feet and much less when dictating.
An advantage to Bluetooth is most devices such as smartphones can be paired, which allows a user to also answers calls easily.
Summary
Having a good wireless headset that can transmit your voice and dictate well can be very freeing compared to a standard cord based solution.
A USB or jack wired connections are usually the best way to dictate but there are many good wireless solutions although more expensive.
The above are simply some of our choices with no doubt many more good units available.
Keep in mind you computers compatibility when ordering a unit for operating system and PC or Mac compatibility.
Most wireless headsets can also be used for other task such as answering calls, Skype, or simply gaming.
Do you have a favorite wireless headset for dictating to software? Let us know in the comments below.
I was wondering if you could answer a few questions for me?
I’m a quadriplegic and I use assistive tech knowledge in order to answer and work my iPhone and my iPad. I use a Tekla box what allows me to use switch control by Tapping a button with the back of my hand in order to click on whatever I want to on my screens.
I also use voice control with commands that allow me Control my iPhone and iPad both and I used it for voice to text but the mic on both of my devices don’t respond to my voice very good I’m constantly having to go back and fix mistakes and raise my voice to get it form actions it’s driving me nuts lol.
So I’m thinking ear phones with a mic that let me talk or dictate turn my devices woodwork a lot better but I can’t use a headset that goes over my ears because of my head rest in my power chair I need something like that ear phones I have that wraparound my ear but with mic coming from it that are Bluetooth and will hear me clearly
I was wondering if you could tell me what kind would be good for me.
Also I want something better than my tablet now and I was wondering if you would know if I touch screen Desktop would work with my Tekla box to use switch control and voice control to work it like I do my iPad and if not what would I need or is there other assistive tech to be able to use it?
If you can help me with any of this I would really appreciate it
Thank you and God bless