Do I have to buy headsets from 3CTel?

No. Any compatible headset works. If you would like recommendations or want headsets supplied with the phones, a specialist can include them in the plan.

Why does my caller hear an echo when I use speakers?

Speakers and a laptop microphone feed sound back into the call. A headset removes the loop. If you must use speakers, turn them down and enable the app's echo cancellation.

My headset works for video calls but not the phone app. Why?

The app has its own audio device setting, separate from the operating system default. Open Settings → Audio in the app and select the headset for both microphone and speaker.

Which headsets work with the apps?

The desktop and mobile apps use whatever audio device the computer or phone has selected, so any USB or Bluetooth headset that works for video calls works for phone calls. For a desk phone, use a headset made for its headset port, or a wireless base with the phone's EHS adapter so the answer button works. Choose noise-cancelling microphones for open offices and a mono headset if you need to hear the room.

For the desktop app

USB headsets are the simplest: plug in, select the headset under Settings → Audio in the app, and you are done. They are consistent, do not need charging and are easy to swap between computers. Bluetooth headsets work well on modern laptops but can add slight delay and occasionally need re-pairing; if you use one, keep the ringtone on the laptop speaker so you hear calls when the headset is off.

Any headset with an inline or on-ear mute button works, but the app's own mute is what your caller hears, so check both if a caller cannot hear you.

For the mobile app

Wired earbuds, Bluetooth earbuds and car audio all work; the app uses the phone's active audio route. Wireless earbuds are convenient but confirm the microphone is good enough in wind or a car.

For desk phones

Most business desk phones have an RJ9 headset port. Wired headsets built for that port connect directly.
Wireless DECT headsets use a base that connects to the phone; add the phone maker's EHS cable or adapter so you can answer and hang up from the headset.
Some phones have Bluetooth built in or accept a USB dongle. Check the model before buying.
A headset key on the phone switches audio between handset and headset; ask the specialist to enable headset mode if it is the person's main way of answering.

Choosing for the job

Reception and contact centre: a lightweight, comfortable headset with a noise-cancelling microphone; wireless if the person leaves the desk. Open office: noise-cancelling microphone and, for people who need to hear colleagues, a single-ear design. Home office: any good USB headset; consider a boom microphone over earbuds for long calls. Shared or hot desks: keep a USB headset per person rather than per desk for hygiene and settings.