EPOS IMPACT 100 review: Does this budget WFH headset actually get it right?
By Himank Tripathi, New Delhi, August 11
Finding a reliable office headset that doesn't cost a bomb or feel like a vice grip on your head is harder than it should be. But it all changed when I tried the EPOS IMPACT 100, which is an entry-level, wired headset that promises professional-grade call quality and comfort for hybrid work environments. I've tested this headset, and here is my take to help you find out if this one makes sense for you.
Design and Comfort:
The moment I took the IMPACT 100 out of the box, the first thing that hit me was the weight. I find it the lightest headset in its class. This one has softer materials for improved all-day comfort, and it works. The clamping force is surprisingly gentle, and the earcups feature durable leatherette earpads. This headset also has a highly durable and really long, aramid fibre-reinforced cable. This is a good feature to ensure long-term dependability across both home and office settings.
The Microphone:
For an entry-level headset, the microphone performance is impressive. It has a uni-directional microphone with some nice advanced noise-cancelling algorithms. During my testing in chaotic environments, the mic does a good job of isolating the primary speaker's voice to deliver improved call clarity. Plus, there is a versatile boom arm that can be worn on either the left or right side, and that's one of the main reasons I wanted to test this headphone. I like the idea of a boom arm a lot, as it brings a sense of nostalgia and makes me a bit more involved during my calls. I even tried this at airports and noticed so many people staring at me, thinking I'm on client calls. However, this is not for rich music listening sessions, as this one is strictly for office use.
Connectivity and Call Controls:
This headset is smartly integrated with Microsoft Teams and other unified communication platforms. For connectivity, there are dual USB-C and USB-A options right on the cable, giving me the flexibility to use it the way I want. This is a prime reason why high-quality wired headsets are making a comeback, as they offer easy plug-and-play functionality without getting hassled to charge them again and again. Plus, they're useful when I have to do calls using my laptop or desktop, as all I have to do is simply plug them in directly and finish my calls. Then there is an inline remote that helps me manage my meetings incredibly easily. It has these distinctively shaped buttons and LED icons, allowing me to intuitively control my calls without ever needing to look down.
In the end:
The EPOS IMPACT 100 has smartly stripped away unnecessary gimmicks and focuses entirely on what actually matters for professionals working in dynamic, demanding environments. It's an ideal product for someone who is looking for lightweight comfort, good build quality, and high-quality audio. If you want a no-nonsense headset that guarantees you will be heard with clarity, then this is an easy recommendation. It's currently priced at Rs 5,499.
My rating: 4/5
(Disclaimer: The author is an expert in the fields of consumer technology, lifestyle and auto. Views shared here are personal.)
— ANI
Reader Comments
The nostalgia factor of the boom arm is real! 😄 I remember using similar headsets at call centers back in the day. But honestly, for ₹5,499 I'd expect better music quality too. The review clearly states this is strictly for office use, which is fair, but many of us do listen to music between meetings. Still, the Microsoft Teams integration and noise-cancelling mic make it tempting for hybrid work setups.
As someone who juggles between home office and client sites, this wired headset makes complete sense. The aramid fibre-reinforced cable is a big plus - my last three headsets died because of cable issues. And the inline remote with distinct buttons? That's exactly what we need for those back-to-back Zoom meetings. The 4/5 rating seems justified. Might actually consider this over the usual Chinese wireless options at similar prices.
Honestly, for the Indian market, we need more reviews like this that focus on practical office use rather than flashy features. The comfort aspect is crucial - I've had terrible experiences with headsets that hurt after an hour. But I wish they'd mentioned the warranty and after-sales service in India. EPOS is relatively new here, and that's a concern for a ₹5,499 purchase. Otherwise, seems like a good buy for hybrid workers.
The airport test really got me! 😂 I can just imagine the stares. But jokes aside, this review makes a strong case for wired headsets making a comeback in the corporate world. No battery anxiety, plug-and-play, and reliable call quality - that's what matters in our fast-paced work environment. The ₹5,499 price point is competitive too. Though I'd prefer seeing how it performs on Indian telecom calls via mobile, since many of us use WhatsApp calls for work here!
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