Remember Huddle Rooms

Remember when Huddle Rooms were all the rage?

Remember when huddle rooms were all the rage? All the top research and analyst firms had a ton of statistics like there were 32+ million huddle rooms globally with less than two percent being video enabled and that huddle-room meetings would grow exponentially to represent almost 70% of all video conferencing room meetings by 2022. Those statistics had manufacturers and businesses working overtime to ensure huddle rooms had the appropriate tech to support this boom.

No one expected what happened in 2020. Video conferencing did increase exponentially however, not in huddle rooms. Instead, people joined video calls right from the comfort (or discomfort) of their homes.

Because of COVID-19 there has been a huge increase in desktop video, remote learning and telehealth.

So what happens to all those huddle rooms? I don’t believe huddle spaces are going the way of the dodo bird however, their design and use may be different. Many organizations are retrofitting and redesigning their meeting spaces to support the new normal where health and safety are of utmost concern. They are reducing the number of people by 50% or more depending on size of room to maintain social distancing guidelines.

Some companies are in the process of implementing or are developing hybrid strategies that encompass a mix of in-office and remote work schedules. Some are considering making them private workspaces or a room where an individual can conduct training to the masses via video. And some businesses, haven’t done anything at all. The spaces are just sitting there as their teams continue to work from home.

Regardless, video conferencing and collaboration is here to stay. Brands like Logitech, Konftel, Yealink, Jabra and Poly have developed a broad range of video solutions to support any size room across the multiple video platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

We’re interested in hearing what your business is doing with huddle rooms. Drop us a comment. If you would like to learn more about video conferencing solutions for your meeting spaces, contact us!

What Replaced Plantronics CS500 Series

What Replaced the Plantronics CS510, CS520 and CS530?

The Poly (formerly Plantronics) CS510, CS520, and CS530 products are end of life (EOL). The last order date was May 15, 2020 and the last ship date was July 15, 2020 or while supplies last. What replaced the Plantronics CS500 Series? In this blog we look at the Poly Savi 7210, 7220 and Voyager 5200 Office with 1-way base! The CS540 is still currently an active and available item.

CS510 to the 7210

CS510 Specs:

  • Enjoy wireless freedom with CS510-XD headset
  • Stay connected smoothly with a wireless range of 350 ft
  • Listen to your tape recordings or use them when listening to telephone calls on Skype with these mono sound headset
  • Listen to your favorite music with this over-the-head design headset
  • Your voice will be heard loud and clear with the boom microphone
  • Circumaural design provides optimum comfort and noise isolation
  • 8 hours of talk time

Savi 7210 Specs:

  • Noise-canceling microphone
  • Flexible microphone boom
  • Up to 12 hours of talk time
  • Built-in audio protection
  • Universal base
  • Dedicated mute button
  • Universal fit headband
  • Freedom to move: Give workers more flexibility and confidence with up to 120 m/400 ft of range from base
  • Desk phone compatibility: Compatible with over 800 analog and IP desk phones
  • DECT™ adaptive power: Optimize range, save power, and maximize office space with a DECT™ adaptive power system that automatically adjusts wireless signal strength based on distance from base
  • Simple 4-headset conferencing: Make collaboration easier, with conferencing of up to 4 headsets on a single base
What Replaced Plantronics CS500 Series
Part NumberModel DescriptionReplaced ByReplacement
Part Number
Replacement Model Description
84691-01CS510,OTH,MON,DECT 6.0,NA213010-01Savi 7210 Office, S7210 D, OTH, MONO, DECT 6.0, NA
84691-02 CS510A,OTH,MON,DECT,EU213010-02Savi 7210 Office, S7210 D, OTH, MONO, DECT, EU
84691-03CS510A,OTH,MON,DECT,AUZ/NZ213010-03Savi 7210 Office, S7210 D, OTH, MONO, DECT, AUS/NZ
84691-11CS510,W/HL10,OTH,MON,DECT 6.0,NAN/ANo replacement
88697-01CS510,AVAYA GMBH 4.999.137.605N/ANo replacement
84692-01CS520,OTH,BIN,DECT 6.0,NA213020-01Savi 7220 Office, S7220 D, OTH, BIN, DECT 6.0, NA
84692-02CS520A,OTH,BIN,DECT,EU213020-02Savi 7220 Office, S7220 D, OTH, BIN, DECT, EU
84692-03CS520A,OTH,BIN,DECT,AUS/NZ213020-03Savi 7220 Office, S7220 D, OTH, BIN, DECT, AUS/NZ
88698-01CS520,AVAYA GMBH 4.999 137.606N/ANo replacement
201941-01Plantr. Headset CS520213020-02Savi 7220 Office, S7220 D, OTH, BIN, DECT, EU [these are standard non-OEM specific parts]
205729-01PLANTRONICS DECT
HEADSET,CS520,W/BASE
213020-02Savi 7220 Office, S7220 D, OTH, BIN, DECT, EU [these are standard non-OEM specific parts]
84692-11CS520,W/HL10,OTH,BIN,DECT 6.0,NAN/ANo Replacement
86305-01CS530,OTE,DECT 6.0,NA212722-01VOYAGER 5200 OFFICE,1-WAY BASE,STD USB CHRG CABLE,NA
86305-02CS530A,OTE,DECT,EU212722-05VOYAGER 5200 OFFICE,1-WAY BASE,STD USB CHRG CABLE,EMEA
86305-03CS530A,OTE,DECT,AUS/NZ212722-08VOYAGER 5200 OFFICE,1-WAY BASE,STD USB CHRG CABLE,ROW
86305-11CS530,OTE,DECT 6.0,NA212722-01VOYAGER 5200 OFFICE,1-WAY BASE,STD USB CHRG CABLE,NA
86305-11CS530,W/HL10,OTE,DECT 6.0,NAN/ANo Replacement
89254-01PLANTRONICS DECT
HEADSET,CS530,W/BASE
212722-05VOYAGER 5200 OFFICE,1-WAY BASE,STD USB CHRG CABLE,EMEA

Want to see the full Plantronics comparison and what replaced Plantronics CS500 Series? Check out our latest video below where we break down each replacement. If you have any questions about these products, please feel free to reach out to our sales reps at; 1-800-749-3160, contact us or email us at sales@calloneonline.com

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Lessons Learned in 2020 from WFH and Zooming

When we were all first sent to work from home, it was going to be a temporary thing. Many went home with minimal tools with the understanding they would be back in the office in a couple weeks. Weeks turned into months. Almost a year later and I am still working from home for the foreseeable future. Some organizations have elected to make remote work a permanent thing, so what lessons were learned in 2020 WFH and Zooming?

So what did I learn?

The ability to communicate and collaborate effectively is paramount. 2020 is the year when Zoom became a verb. Everyone was “Zooming”. (Even though other video platforms were also being used.) From company and team meetings, to virtual game nights, happy hours, and holiday celebrations, you Zoomed them. Regardless of video platform, these two things became very important:

  • Audio and Video Quality

Although video is extremely important, I am going to give audio quality a higher level of importance. How many video meetings did you attend where this happened?

  • “We can see you but can’t hear you”
  • “Are you muted?”
  • “Can you hear us?”
  • “Whoever is making that noise, can you please mute?”

Learning how to select the appropriate audio device via the various platforms is a first step. Knowing how to turn your video on and off is also key. And please learn how to mute and unmute. We all had moments where we saw and/or heard more than we should.

If you are like me, you utilized multiple video meeting platforms beyond Zoom to include Microsoft Teams, Cisco Webex, Google Meet, and more.

I am very fortunate that my role requires me to test multiple audio and video devices from leading brands like Jabra, Logitech, Poly, Cisco and EPOS, along with lesser-known brands like Konftel, JPL, Yealink and VDO360.

While open offices can be noisy environments, working from home present different sources of noise like other adults, children, pets, televisions, doorbells, lawn mowers, and other domestic noise! Some folks also deal with other sources of noise like trains, planes, traffic, construction and more!

Fortunately, there is no shortage of options when it comes to audio and video devices for WFH.

Audio Solutions for WFH

The audio quality from the built-in speakers and mics in a laptop are typically subpar. A professional grade corded USB headset will provide a much better audio experience for you and your audience. Additionally, many headsets offer the ability to answer and end calls, adjust volume up or down, and to enable the all-important mute function via an inline control or through the headset itself. Some headsets even offer a cool feature that places you on mute by simply flipping the boom arm up. If you need the flexibility to roam around your home office, it is best to get a Bluetooth or DECT wireless headset. Imagine having the ability to remain in a call while helping your kids start their online school, going to the kitchen for more coffee, or to go get your food delivery from the front door? Wireless headsets allow you to do this.

Another great feature that some headsets offer is Active Noise Canceling (ANC) speakers that help block out distracting noise and allow you to focus on your call or work.

Personally, I use a USB speakerphone. Speakerphones are a great option especially if you are in a “listen-only” webinar or conference call. Some offer full-duplex audio which allows for multiple users to communicate simultaneously.  Bluetooth and NFC are available in some speakerphone models to support pairing to your mobile device. Personally, I use two speakerphones. I use one connected to my PC for voice and video calls. The other is paired to my mobile device for streaming music.

Have a hard time deciding? Look at these videos!

Headset, Webcam, and Speakerphone Comparison Videos

Headset Mic Test Videos

Speakerphone Review and Audio Quality Test Videos

Video Solutions for WFH

The built-in camera in your laptop typically provides horrible video quality. During 2020 I had the privilege of testing several webcams and cameras. I learned that 1080p means something different to the various manufacturers. Many claimed 1080p but the video quality I experienced was not quite what I expected. I guess Logitech spoiled me and the rest of us. In my opinion, they continue to be the standard when it comes to video quality. That’s not to say other brands didn’t hold their own. In addition to video resolution quality, other factors to consider when selecting a webcam are:

Field of View (FOV)

Today webcams and cameras offer a FOV of 54 to 360 degrees! Essentially the lower the degrees, the less you see, and the higher, the more you see. Some folks prefer not to expose too much of their environment and surroundings to the outside world. While some would like as much of the room or space in view. Your individual use case will always determine what is best for you. Some cameras have software available that allows you to adjust FOV and other settings to improve overall video quality and experience.

Webcam System Requirements

Not every webcam works with every computer or operating system. Make a note of your computer and operating system, then check the requirements for the webcam. ​

Compatible and Certified

Beyond system and operating system requirements select webcams are compatible or certified for major platforms like Microsoft Teams, Cisco® Jabber®, Spark™, WebEx®, Zoom, Google Meet, Bluejeans, and more! ​

Built-in Microphone

Some webcams provide built-in microphones that are pretty good and some that are not. Check out these webcam videos that include mic tests! However, having a built-in microphone is beneficial in some use cases especially those with limited USB ports. A USB Headset or Speakerphone typically provide improved audio quality.

Privacy Shutter

Webcam privacy shutters/cover webcam lens to prevent others from “seeing” what the camera sees. ​ Some webcams have built-in shutters. ​ Some webcams provide lens cover you can affix to webcam. ​ Some webcams do not provide privacy shutter or cover. If privacy is important, please check to see if the webcam of interest includes a cover or not.

Cable Length

It is critical that you understand where end-user wishes to mount camera vs where camera will be connected. ​Cable lengths vary from webcam to webcam. 3ft – 6ft appear to be average cable lengths however some have shorter cables​.

While you can use a USB extension cable do not assume it will work. In order to maintain support for USB 2.0 or 3.0 requirements, there may be cable length restrictions, or you may need special powered USB cable (and even this may not work).

Other features:

  • Pan, Tilt, Zoom (PTZ) – Manual, Digital, Software based
  • Device Management Software
  • Windows Hello support
  • Built-in AI
  • Auto-framing, Intelligent Zoom
  • Tripod-ready and other mounting options
  • Rightlight2 Technology for clarity in various lighting environments
  • Autofocus

The point is, while a low-cost headset or webcam may sound appealing, it may not be the best solution for your use case today and in the future? Reminder, what started out as a short-term scenario has become long-term and permanent for many. Do you have the best tools to be as productive as possible while Zooming? To learn more about these solutions, contact us M-F, 8am-5pm ET! 📞 1-800-749-3160 or 📨 sales@calloneonline.com

Logitech Zone

Logitech Zone | Wireless & Wired Headsets | A Noise Canceling Mic Comparison

Logitech made some updates to their Zone Wireless and Wired headsets. In our latest post, we tell you about them and include mic and wireless range tests! Some key improvements made include: Zone Wired/Wireless are now Microsoft Teams Certified and include dedicated Microsoft Teams button (was Skype for Business certified before). Zone Wireless also has USB-A to USB-C dongle adapter in the box. The Zone Wireless Charging port is now upgraded from micro-USB to USB-C connectivity. Logitech has also now made it easier to change earpads for the Zone Wireless.

Logitech Zone Wired

Features

  • Open Office-certified : Noise-canceling dual mic technology that accurately suppresses distracting sounds as close as 60 cm away
  • Premium audio drivers: Generously-sized 40mm drivers deliver full-bodied bass, crisp higher frequencies and incredibly low distortion
  • Plug-and-play reliability: In-line controls keep call and music functions handy as USB-C and USB-A adapter (included adapter is USB-A male to USB-C female) ensuring plug-and-play compatibility.

Logitech Zone Wireless

Features

  • Wireless Bluetooth headset designed to control your acoustic environment and get stuff done in open workspaces
  • Open workspaces are great for collaboration, but not so great when the conversations around you make it hard to concentrate. With active noise cancellation that substantially reduces unwanted ambient sound, a Zone Wireless headset can help you focus on the task at hand and get more stuff done. Think of it as a personal portal to acoustic serenity amidst a sea of otherwise distracting noise. Same workspace, but with a sound experience that you control.
  • Treat yourself to immersive sound when listening to music. Logitech audio engineers have been fine-tuning headset audio for decades, and the results are amazingly clear as you experience your playlist with Zone Wireless. When it’s time for a phone chat or conference call, the noise-canceling mic ensures that your voice is heard on the other end of a call—not the noise around you. Of course, the sound quality of your meetings is equally amazing.

Performance

When Comparing these two headsets, there is a clear audio difference between the Zone Wired and Zone Wireless. The Logitech Zone Wired (currently) has an MSRP of $129, and surprising, has a much better sound than the $229 Zone Wireless. Want to see how they compare? Check out the video:

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Poly Sync vs Konftel Ego

12 Days of Call One | Day 10 | Poly Sync 20 vs Konftel Ego

The Poly Sync 20 and Konftel Ego both have MSRP of $169. Both are compatible with all major UC platforms to include Microsoft Teams. In this overview, we go over similarities, differences, and unique features of each. We also do a mic pickup range test and a new thing we want to start including with Speakerphone videos, we do our best to allow you to hear speaker audio quality of each. Take a look and listen, which would you choose for your use case?

POLY SYNC

Features

  • Enjoy remarkable sound from meetings to music
  • Reduce echo and noise so everyone hears you clearly
  • Slim and portable – take it with you anywhere
  • It goes as long as you do with up to 20 hours of battery life

GRAB THE PERFECT SPEAKERPHONE FOR MEETINGS AND MUSIC, WHEREVER YOUR DAY TAKES YOU

Let’s face it: the audio on your laptop and smartphone aren’t great. Sound like the professional you are with Poly Sync 20 USB/Bluetooth smart speakerphone—for remarkable audio anywhere. The Poly Sync 20 is Zoom certified for a seamless Zoom communication experience.

KEEP THE FOCUS ON YOUR VOICE WITH MULTI-MICROPHONES THAT TRACK THE TALKER, NOT THE NOISE.

Focus on what’s being said and help keep echo and noise out of the meeting with the smart multi-microphone array. You and your remote participants sound amazing with the high-performance speaker.

PROGRAM YOUR FAVORITE FUNCTION SO IT WORKS WITH A SINGLE TOUCH.

A programmable button puts your favorite function at your fingertips—play/pause music, last-number redial and voice assistant—it’s up to you. What’s the status of a call? You’ll know even from a distance by the highly visible light bar.

KONFTEL EGO

Despite its size, the Ego delivers crystal-clear sound thanks to Konftel’s unique OmniSound audio technology. It’s ideal for a meeting with a couple colleagues in one of your smaller conference rooms or in a hotel room when you are away from the office.

Features

  • Small and portable
  • Compatible with Skype for Business
  • Meeting size: up to 6 people
  • OmniSound® with HD audio
  • LCD screen

The Konftel Ego works seamlessly with Skype for Business, Cisco Jabber, Avaya Communicator and other conferencing tools. The Ego has a headset port, and the built-in battery gives you the option of completely cordless use. A smart and clear LCD screen on the Konftel Ego makes it easy to see which function is active. LEDs also light up on the side in different colors to indicate the function. In short, the Konftel Ego gives you full and effortless control. The Konftel Ego also received a Red Dot Award for “Excellent product design” in early 2016!

See how both the Poly Sync 20 and Konftel Ego preform in a head to head test! What are your thoughts? If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us: 1-800-749-3160 or contact us here.

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webcams for business

VDO 360 3SEE | All-In-One Camera! | 12 Days of Call One | Day 8

Meet the 3SEE. VDO360 presents the latest addition to the SEE family. 4K video, 90-degree FOV, far field audio, and speakers as well! A single USB cable is all you need.

The Specs

4K Video

Get seen with affordable, high definition 4k video, no matter where you are.

USB 3.0 PLUG AND PLAY

Plug-and-play capability makes the VDO360 3SEE easy to use. When you need to look and sound your best, this is the webcam you want. Work smarter. Communicate better.

ONE YEAR WARRANTY

The 3SEE Comes standard with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty

Camera, Lens Parameters

  • Imaging sensor: 1/3.2 inch CMOS 
  • Effective pixels: Approx. 8 million 
  • Video format: MJPEG, YuY2 
  • Focal length: Pf=2.8mm
  • Minimum illumination: 0.5 Lux 
  • White balance: Auto
  • Focus Mode: Fixed
  • Image color: 24 bit 
  • Backlight compensation: Supports 
  • Picture adjustment: Brightness, chroma, saturation, contrast, sharpness 
  • Field of view (horizontal): 90° 

Interface Parameters 

  • Video interface: Type C 
  • Video Compression Format: USB 3 
  • Power interface: 5 VDC 

Mic Parameters 

  • Array quantity: 4 
  • Arrangement: Linear 
  • Sampling frequency 16KHz / 48KHz 
  • Sensitivity: -29dBFs 
  • Far field pickup distance: 0-8 meters 
  • Horizontal angle: 180° 
  • SNR 65.5 db
  • Mode: Full duplex 

Speaker Parameters 

  • Quantity: 2 
  • Power: 2W x 2
  • Impedance: 4Ω 
  • Size: 27mm *16.5mmH

Take a look at this chart comparing other VD0360 solutions:

1SEE2SEE3SEE
ImageVDO360 1SEEVDO360 VDOS4M 2SEEVDO360 Webcam
SKUVDO1CVDOS4MVDOSMS
MSRP$75$139$299
MicsNo44
SpeakerNoNo2
MagnificationFixedFixedFixed
Special FeaturePassthrough USB port on rear of camera for data. Use headsets, USB thumb drives, wireless mouse dongles, even when the camera is off. Solid billet aluminum construction.Great video with a far-field mic array that picks up your voice from up to eight meters away.All-in-one solution. Has 4k video, the same four-speaker array as the 2SEE, and stereo sound. Connects via USB C for power and data.
Great ForWFH, Distance Education, Call CentersWFH, Distance Education, TeachersWFH, New Normal collaboration spaces at the office, Streaming
BUY NOWBUY NOWBUY NOW

The VDO360 3SEE puts out an outstanding 4K picture. In terms of audio, it receives the same ranking. This camera is truly an all-in-one solution, built and priced properly. If you want to learn more about this product check out our YouTube video below where we overview, test, and share our opinions on the VDO360 3SEE camera: Feel free to reach out with any question Via YouTube, Social Media, or directly to our call center: 1-800-749-3160 or contact us here

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Jabra Evolve75 Evolve2 65

12 Days of Call One | Day Seven | Jabra Evolve 75 vs Evolve2 65

This has been a highly requested topic; what is the difference between Jabra Evolve2 65 and Evolve 75? Which one is better? We answer those questions in this video and do a quick side by side mic test! Both units are UC and Microsoft Teams certified. Both offer connectivity to PC and mobile device. Both can be used via corded USB cable if you forget to charge! Before we dive into the video, lets take a look at the Jabra Evolve75 ans Evolve2 65 and what they feature.

Jabra Evolve 75

Features

  • World-class speakers and HD voice for crystal-clear calls and music
  • Superior ANC and integrated busylight to reduce noise and interruptions and increase productivity
  • Dual Bluetooth® connectivity to two devices at the same time for calls and music and wireless range of up to 100ft/30m from your connected device

Give your concentration an added boost with the Evolve 75. If you spend a lot of time walking the corridors, the noise-isolating design of the Evolve 75 makes it a great choice, and the added boost from Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) allows you to really focus when you need to. Stop interruptions before they happen with a built-in busylight that acts as a do-not-disturb signal to your colleagues, letting them know when you’re too busy to chat. The light comes on automatically when you’re on a call, or you can also enable it manually when you’re trying to concentrate.

The Evolve 75 provides crystal-clear calls wherever you are. Professional-grade microphones and a boom arm give all of your calls over multiple UC platforms including Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Cisco and 8×8 a competitive edge with crystal-clear incoming and outgoing audio – whether you’re sitting at your desk, walking between meetings, or grabbing half an hour in a break-out room – compatibility with multiple UC platforms keeps you truly flexible.

The battery in the Evolve 75 gives you all-day freedom, and then some. With up to 18 hours of talk time, you can roam as much as you like, without ever needing to worry about running out of battery in the middle of a call. And with the optional charging stand, your headset is always fully charged and ready for the day. Be available from anywhere with dual Bluetooth connectivity that allows you to connect your headset simultaneously to both your computer and your smartphone, so wherever you wander, you don’t have to worry about missing that all-important call.

Jabra Evolve2 65

Features

  • Binaural Wireless Headset with charging stand and USB-A dongle
  • Noise-isolating design
  • Up to 37 hours battery life
  • On-ear wearing style
  • 3-microphone call technology
  • Microsoft Teams Version

Jabra Evolve2 65 can give you better calls for seamless collaboration everywhere. Jabra has made the incredible call performance of our world-leading Evolve series even better, with an advanced digital chipset that’s three times more powerful and three strategically placed professional microphones, filtering out 23% more background conversation noise from your calls. Since the Evolve2 65 is UC-certified, collaborating is easy and everyone is happy, with both their Unified Communications (UC) platform and their headset. The headset works with all leading UC platforms and is optimized for Zoom for truly seamless communication. Evolve2 65 also has an MS variant, which makes it Microsoft Teams-certified with a dedicated Teams button.

Being that the Evolve2 65 features bigger speakers, a better chipset, and brilliant audio; you’ll never miss a thing, thanks to powerful leak-tolerant 40mm speakers and Jabra’s most advanced digital chipset ever, delivering outstanding audio that always keeps you in the loop wherever you’re working from. The Evolve2 65 also brings in noise isolation like never before. When you put on your Evolve2 65, feel the noise around you instantly fade, wherever you happen to be working from. Memory foam oval ear cushions and pioneering new angled design cancels 48% more of the noise around you.

The Jabra Evolve75 and Evolve2 65 both feature a busylight, but it’s improved here on the Evolve2 65, which also helps you zone in and focus whether distance learning or working remotely. The new and improved busylight on the Evolve2 65 is four times more visible, allowing you to be seen from every angle, for even fewer interruptions. So, wherever you need to work from today, at least you know you can work in peace. The Evolve2 65 is enhanced for all-day comfort. With soft leatherette ear cushions and a lightweight, flexible design, the headset is engineered to be comfortable enough to wear all day – from the first call of the day, to the last run-through with your boss before tomorrow’s presentation.

Taking it to the test!

Now that you’re up to speed, lets talk about the test. There are a ton of similarities and differences between these two headsets, but which one comes out on top, the Jabra Evolve75 or Evolve2 65? Their output is nearly identical but choosing which one is based solely on your use case. Are you looking for more comfort? Go with the Evolve2 65. Do you want active noise canceling? Go with the Evolve 75. If you need more information on these products click the link below. This video should help you narrow down your decision:

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Logitech B525 vs c505e

12 Days of Call One | Day Six | Logitech B525 vs c505e

The Logitech B525 Fold and Go camera is End of Life (EOL) and being replaced by the new Logitech C505e webcam. The new webcam comes in at an MSRP of $54.99 and works with Windows, Mac, or Chrome based computer via USB-A and with common calling applications such as Microsoft Teams, Skype for Business, Google Meet and Voice, Zoom, Cisco Jabber and others. In the video below we show video and mic audio quality between B525 and C505e.

B525

Logitech B525 vs C505e

If you’re looking for something on-the-go, Logitech B525 HD Webcam makes it easy to meet face-to- face, wherever you are. The convenient design lets you pack the camera and take it with you. Just attach it to your device and begin your meeting.

With a 720p HD video captured at 30 frames per second, the B525 HD Webcam delivers clear, crisp video, even in low light conditions. The autofocus feature maintains a distinctive sharpness as close as 10cm.

C505e

Logitech B525 vs C505e

The Logitech C505e provides a 60° diagonal FOV (field of view), a fixed focus lens, HD 720p/30fps, automatic light adjustment features, and one omnidirectional mic, supporting clear conversations up to 3 meters away.

The extended USB-A cable and provides a wide range of mounting alternatives. Secure it on a screen—or mount it up to 7 ft from your computer.

C505e works with most popular video applications, including Microsoft Teams, Skype for Business, Google Voice and Meet, Zoom and others to ensure compatibility and seamless integration in the workplace.

The Showdown

While testing these two webcams, the Logitech B525 and c505e, and to clarify that the Logitech B525 is End of Life (EOL), we were shocked with the outcome. Upon closer inspection, the B525 puts out a much better image and sound then it’s successor. Want to see for yourself? Check out the full breakdown below:

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Yealink CP 700 and CP 900

12 Days of Call One | Day Five | Yealink CP700 vs CP900

Yealink offers portable USB/Bluetooth speakerphones for personal use, small groups and on the go. Speakerphones are a great addition to your collaboration devices tool kit along with a great headset. The Yealink CP700 and CP900 support all major VoIP and UC platforms like Avaya, Broadsoft, Counterpath, Google, Microsoft, Vonage, and Zoom. With portable design in mind, the CP700 speakerphones have a lightweight design and are small and compact enough to carry in a laptop bag or backpack. (A travel case is also included.)

The Yealink CP900 is designed with six directional microphones positioned around the base, which pick up sound from any direction in 360 degrees, so participants do not need to huddle round the speakerphone while speaking, enabling them to converse naturally in an immersive, flexible setting. Both models include a dedicated Microsoft Teams button. Not only can they be used for voice and video calls, but you can also stream media like your favorite music! Which Yealink Speakerphone is best for you and your work environment?

The Specs

CP700

  • The Yealink CP700 is a portable, personal speakerphone that offers plug-and-play connectivity; plug into your PC, tablet and smartphone via Bluetooth wireless pairing or USB wired connection.
  • The CP700 packs Yealink HD voice quality, with two omnidirectional microphones and Yealink audio algorithms for an elaborate speakerphone experience and 360-degree voice pickup ability.
  • With high-quality echo cancellation, you can keep yourself focused on video conferencing and virtual meetings, without the hassle of feedback.
  • For calls on the go, the Yealink CP700 provides up to 10-hour talk time and premium battery life, as well as call controls accessible on the device directly.
  • The speakerphone also comes with a protective zipper bag, so you can carry it back and forth from working from home to the office.

CP900

  • Premium HD Voice for calls and music
  • 360-degree microphone pickup range of 6.5ft distance
  • Six-microphone beam-forming array for full-duplex performance
  • USB or Bluetooth connectivity for notebooks, smartphones and tablets
  • Portable design
  • Compatible with T53, T53W, T54W and T57W phones if running V85 firmware
  • USB connectivity

So, between the two, which speakerphone performs better? Check out our video where we test, overview, and share our opinions on the Yealink CP700 and CP900. Enjoy!

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Jabra Evolve 80

12 Days of Call One | Day 4 | Jabra Evolve 80

Today we’re revisiting the Jabra Evolve 80. We covered the Evolve 80 MS variant back in 2014 when it first launched. As part of Jabra’s Meet the Professionals line of solutions, the Evolve 80 is a great headset for the desk worker. For instance, someone who needs no interruptions and desires freedom to focus. As more people are working remotely or transitioning to hybrid work or remote learning; blocking out background noise to concentrate and focus is something more and more people are starting to realize is becoming a necessity or need in an optimal work environment.

The Evolve 80 features ANC (active noise cancelling) and a busy light for fewer interruptions plus what Jabra calls, ‘passive noise cancellation’, with the help of large over-ear cups eliminating high-frequency noise, such as human voices; coworkers or kids shouting in the background, the excellent passive noise cancellation, helps to dull the sounds of noisy colleagues thanks to specially-designed ear cushions.

Work is becoming less of a place you go to and more of a thing you do. If you’re someone who’s a remote worker or learning from home, can you relate? As more companies encourage their employees to work from home or from the road, demand for solutions that support this new form of working is higher than ever. At home, on the road or in the office, it is important to have reliable ways to connect, collaborate and communicate with others. The Jabra Evolve 80 is UC-certified and compatible with all leading Unified Communications platforms including Cisco, Zoom, Microsoft Teams and 8×8. The Evolve 80 is engineered to keep you versatile and connected. Furthermore, with flexible connectivity, you can choose between USB-A, USB-C or 3.5mm jack.

With easy call control, you can answer calls, mute your microphone and turn the volume up and down, without having to open your UC platform, or interrupt your work flow. This helps you stay productive, even when you’ve got a lot on your plate. Evolve 80 has professional-grade microphones and a boom arm for precision voice transmission, so your calls always sound crystal-clear, even when you’re sitting in the middle of a busy office. Take a look below at our mic test and overview of the Evolve 80 as we go more in-depth and subscribe to our Youtube channel for similar videos like these.

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