Which Professional Headset Wins in 2025? Review:
Choosing the right professional headset can make or break your workday productivity. If you're torn between the EPOS IMPACT 1000 and 800 Series, you're looking at two exceptional options that both promise to transform your communication experience. But which one actually delivers the best value for your specific needs?
After testing both series extensively, the EPOS IMPACT 1000 Series stands out as the premium wireless choice, while the IMPACT 800 Series excels as the reliable wired workhorse. Here's everything you need to know to make the right decision.
For a complete overview of all EPOS series, see our comprehensive EPOS headsets guide. If you're specifically interested in call centre applications, our IMPACT call centre guide provides detailed recommendations for intensive customer service environments.
What Makes These Headsets Special?
Both the IMPACT 1000 and 800 Series represent EPOS's "Next IMPACT Generation" – headsets built specifically for the modern open office environment. They share the same foundational technology: EPOS BrainAdapt™ and EPOS AI™ powered microphones that scan your environment 32,000 times per second to identify and eliminate background noise. Learn more about EPOS BrainAdapt™ technology and how it reduces cognitive load during intensive calling.
The key difference? The IMPACT 1000 Series offers wireless Bluetooth connectivity with triple device pairing, while the IMPACT 800 Series focuses on wired USB reliability.
IMPACT 1000 Series: The Wireless Powerhouse
The IMPACT 1000 Series is part of EPOS's revolutionary approach to call centre headset technology, designed specifically for intensive customer service environments.
Connectivity That Actually Works
The IMPACT 1000 Series uses Bluetooth 5.3 for extra security and assured quality of connection, but what sets it apart is triple connectivity. You can simultaneously connect to your computer via the included USB dongle and two mobile devices via Bluetooth. This means seamless switching between your laptop, smartphone, and tablet without any reconnection hassles.
The EPOS IMPACT 1000 headsets come in multiple variants, from the basic 1030 mono version to the premium 1061T ANC with charging stand. All models include both USB-A and USB-C adapters, so you're covered regardless of your device setup.
Battery Life That Doesn't Quit
The IMPACT 1000 delivers 20 hours of talk time – longer than many competing headsets. Even better, you can continue using it while plugged in for a recharge, so you're never stuck waiting for power.
The charging system is particularly clever. Models with the charging stand offer contactless wireless charging – just place the headset on the stand and it charges automatically. No fumbling with cables or ports.
Advanced Active Noise Cancellation
The IMPACT 1000 features hybrid adaptive ANC that adapts to surrounding noise levels and only uses as much ANC as needed at any given time. This reduces the stuffy "occlusion" feeling you get with traditional noise cancellation.
But here's what makes it special: the ANC works both ways. It blocks distracting sounds from reaching your ears while the AI-powered microphone eliminates background noise from your voice. The microphone scans the surrounding environment 32,000 times per second to effectively identify and shut down sources of noise.
Talk-Through Technology
The IMPACT 1000 includes HearThrough functionality, letting you have face-to-face conversations without removing the headset. This might sound like a small feature, but if you wear a headset all day, avoiding the constant on-off cycle is a genuine productivity boost.
IMPACT 800 Series: The Wired Champion
Reliability You Can Count On
The EPOS IMPACT 700 & 800 headsets take a different approach. The Impact 800 series is designed for professionals who prioritize reliability and security, with a focus on wired connectivity.
The IMPACT 800 connects via USB, offering both USB-A and USB-C connections with an included adapter, ensuring compatibility with virtually any laptop or desktop. The wired connection eliminates wireless interference risks, making it perfect for secure environments or high-density offices where Bluetooth signals might struggle.
Same Great Microphone Technology
Don't think "wired" means "lesser quality." The Impact 800 features the same triple-microphone array as the 1000 series for clear voice pickup and background noise suppression. The adaptive beamforming noise-cancelling microphone scans your environment 32,000 times per second using an intelligent noise-cancelling algorithm.
Optional Active Noise Cancellation
The 800 series is available in both ANC and non-ANC versions, giving you flexibility to choose the model that best suits your needs. The base models offer excellent passive noise isolation through their design, while the ANC variants add active noise cancellation for extra quiet.
Built for All-Day Comfort
The Impact 800 headset is beautifully designed with soft, comfortable padding for the ears and top of the head, with height positioning that can be adjusted to various positions for prolonged use. The slim, lightweight design and intuitive operation with strategically placed buttons make everyday work easier.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | IMPACT 1000 Series | IMPACT 800 Series |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Wireless Bluetooth 5.3 + USB dongle | Wired USB-A/USB-C |
| Device Pairing | Up to 3 devices simultaneously | Single device connection |
| Battery Life | 20 hours talk time | No battery required |
| Charging | Wireless charging stand (select models) | Plug-and-play power |
| Mobility | Complete wireless freedom | Tethered to device |
| Microphone | AI-powered triple array | AI-powered triple array |
| Noise Cancellation | Hybrid adaptive ANC standard | Optional ANC variants |
| Price Range | £181-£299 (UK pricing) | £99-£156 (UK pricing) |
| Best For | Mobile professionals, executives | Desk workers, call centers |
See how these models compare to the EPOS ADAPT series for hybrid workers, which offers different strengths for mobile and flexible work environments.
Performance in Real-World Scenarios
For the Busy Executive
The EPOS Impact 1000 has a top tier noise canceling microphone and is among the top two tested as of 2025. If you're frequently moving between conference rooms, taking calls while walking, or working in various locations, the wireless freedom and triple connectivity make the 1000 Series the clear winner.
For Call Center Professionals
The IMPACT 800 Series headsets are engineered to boost productivity by up to 40% utilizing EPOS BrainAdapt™ technology. For desk-based work where you're plugged in all day, the reliable wired connection eliminates any concern about battery life or wireless dropouts.
For Security-Conscious Environments
Wired headsets are often preferred in industries where security is a concern, as they eliminate the risk of wireless hacking or interference. The IMPACT 800's wired design makes it the natural choice for government, finance, or healthcare environments with strict security requirements.
Audio Quality: Where Both Series Shine
Both series deliver exceptional audio performance thanks to their shared technological foundation. They feature super wideband and stereo sound that meets Microsoft Teams Open Office requirements. The Impact 800 Series delivers stellar sound performance with a 5-star dictation rating from Viva Voice Speech Recognition Solution.
The microphone quality deserves special mention. The Impact 1000 has one of the top noise canceling microphones tested, making it ideal for anyone who needs to be heard clearly without background noise. This same technology powers the 800 Series microphones.
Comfort and Design
Both series prioritize all-day wearability. The lightweight design, soft breathable cushions, and headband padding allow for all-day wearing comfort in the open office. Each earcup swivels around the center point to accommodate different head contours.
The 1000 Series edges ahead slightly in convenience features. Smart features and wireless charging make using the headset truly intuitive and hassle-free. The 360-degree busy light signals when you're on calls, helping prevent interruptions.
Microsoft Teams Integration
Both series offer Microsoft Teams certified variants (models ending in "T"). The EPOS IMPACT 1000 and 800 Series are certified for Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and Zoom. The Teams models include a dedicated Teams button for quick access to meetings and calls.
EPOS' Open Office headsets have earned the "Premium Microphone for Open Office" label, meaning they've passed rigorous tests measuring how well a headset handles noise from different directions and distances.
Value Proposition
The pricing tells an interesting story. The IMPACT 800 Series ranges from £99-£156, while the IMPACT 1000 Series spans £181-£299. That's a significant price difference, but it reflects the added complexity and features of wireless technology.
For desk-bound professionals who don't need wireless mobility, the 800 Series delivers premium audio quality at a more accessible price point. The 1000 Series justifies its premium through wireless convenience, triple connectivity, and longer battery life.
Making Your Decision
Choose the IMPACT 1000 Series if you:
- Need wireless freedom and mobility
- Connect to multiple devices regularly
- Want the latest noise cancellation technology
- Don't mind paying premium for convenience features
- Work in varied environments (office, home, travel)
Choose the IMPACT 800 Series if you:
- Work primarily at a desk setup
- Prefer the reliability of wired connections
- Want premium audio quality at a lower price
- Work in security-sensitive environments
- Don't need multi-device connectivity
The Bottom Line
Both the EPOS IMPACT 1000 and 800 Series represent excellent investments in professional communication technology. The EPOS IMPACT series offers something for everyone, whether you're looking for a premium wireless solution, a reliable wired option, or lightweight comfort for all-day use.
The 1000 Series earns its premium pricing through genuine convenience and advanced features that make sense for mobile professionals. The 800 Series proves that wired doesn't mean outdated – it offers the same exceptional audio quality and AI-powered noise cancellation at a more accessible price.
Your choice ultimately depends on your work style and budget. Both will dramatically improve your communication experience compared to basic headsets or laptop speakers. The question isn't whether these headsets are worth it – it's which one fits your specific needs better.
For professionals who spend significant time in video calls, either choice will be transformational. The EPOS Impact series is designed to deliver exceptional audio quality, comfort, and functionality for business professionals, and both the 1000 and 800 Series deliver on that promise admirably.
Still unsure? Check our EPOS FAQ guide for technical support and detailed troubleshooting information. Or explore our complete EPOS product range to discover additional options that might suit your specific needs.
Ready to transform your professional communication? Explore the full range of EPOS IMPACT 1000 headsets or discover the value-focused EPOS IMPACT 700 & 800 models to find your perfect match.
