Microsoft Teams (Devices): Phone Options
Microsoft Teams is a fully functioning phone system. Employees could, theoretically, just use their laptop for all calling functions. However, to make/receive calls in an office setting, most people will need or prefer to use a headset or desk phone. UW-Stout has different options for external devices depending on your needs & preferences.
Headsets
Headsets are great for workers who need a hands-free experience. They also offer maximum flexibility to work from anywhere as they can easily move with your laptop. Headsets are reliable and inexpensive to maintain. Headsets allow stable and consistent calling and require little to support, thus are recommended for most employees.
There's now a required contract for the purchase of teams headsets, and that can be found here.
Poly Voyager 4320 wireless
- Connects to your computer via Bluetooth (wirelessly).
- Allows for moving around the office while making calls.
- Most calling functions are handled within the Teams application on the computer.
- Comes with single ear(4310) or dual ear model(4320).
Plantronics BLACKWIRE 3320
- Connects to your computer via a USB port
- Economical and reliable.
- Most calling functions are handled within the Teams application on the computer.
- Comes with single ear(3310) or dual ear(3320) model.
Desk Phones
Desk phones are great for workers that want the convenience of a handset and primarily work in one location.
Yealink MP50 USB handset
- Connects to your computer via a USB port (just like a wired headset).
- No need to sign-in - uses the signed-in Teams user on the computer (just like a headset).
- Offers the simplicity of a headset with the convenience of a desk phone.
- Can still be used if computer is locked but not if the computer is signed out.
AudioCodes 448 Desk Phone
Recommended for areas that have shared or common-area lines where a direct connection to a computer is not possible.
- Connects to the network – no direct connection to a computer
- Needs to be signed in as a user
- Is not dependent on a computer being signed in to operate.
- Good for shared accounts or where a computer is not near the phone location.