In the CHIP test center we test wireless on-ear and over-ear headsets with microphone arms. The overall grade is made up of the following individual disciplines:
Recording (35% of total)The most important criterion is the recording quality of speech. To do this, our audio experts connect in a typical video conference and speak different texts into the microphone, in quiet and loud environments. We also check how well the mute function works. Points are deducted for background noise and inadequately filtered ambient noise.
Playback (25% of overall rating)The quality of voice reproduction is also subject to a subjective assessment. For this purpose, the same source files are always played and the sound is assessed with regard to “bass”, “mids”, “treble”, “clarity”, “stage” and “speech”. The latter points in particular are important for three-dimensional hearing in video games and clearly understandable voices in conferences.
Comfort & features (20% of the overall rating)This grade is made up of comfort and features. We determine how stable the headset sits on your head and whether prolonged use creates an uncomfortable feeling due to excessive pressure or heat. We also pay attention to the processing quality, availability of connections and the up-to-dateness of Bluetooth standards. Features such as a dedicated volume control or wind protection for the microphone also play a role here.
Battery and mobility (20% of the overall rating)In order to be able to assess the battery life in a practical way, we measure two common scenarios: the running time during calls with microphone use and the running time when playing music. If the headset supports it, Active Noise Canceling is activated. There are plus points for quickly charging the empty headset battery.
Test: Áramis Moreno, Tomasz Czarnecki
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