Voyager Focus UC vs Blackwire 5220: Which One to Choose!

If you're on a hunt for a quality Plantronics headset for professional purposes, you’ll probably come across two common models, namely Voyager Focus UC and Blackwire 5220. Well, both of these gears offer great support and multi-device connectivity as well. But each model is equipped with some of its own unique features. Due to this, different Plantronics headset models support different sorts of professional spaces. 

Let’s take a look at the qualities of each of these models. After that, there would be a comparison between these two model features. At the end of the blog, you'll get a recommendation for which one to choose, Voyager Focus UC vs Blackwire 5220.

Real-Time Testing for Model Features 

As an office professional, I tested both of these headsets myself to review their features. Since real-time testing is also needed, so my team actually reached out to multiple corporate centers. The goal was to test both these headsets in a professional environment. After personal and expert testing, our team was able to confirm the performance and also features of both Voyager Focus UC and Blackwire 5220 models. 

Poly Voyager Focus UC: Wireless Option

The Voyager Focus UC is a wireless Bluetooth headset presented by Plantronics (now Poly/HP). Well, it is officially developed for professional purposes. However, the features of this headset model make it suitable even for everyday calls and music streaming. Below you can find out what this model has to offer: 

Multi-Connectivity

It pairs with a phone or tablet via 2.4GHz Bluetooth connectivity. Also, it can connect through a USB Adapter (USB‑A/C)  to computers for Zoom or Teams meetings. In case of a low battery, it can connect via a wired USB cable. Furthermore, it can be connected to 2 devices at once, which makes it suitable for professional settings. 

Active Noise Cancellation

It comes with an adaptive ANC feature, which automatically adjusts how much external noise to block. You can also adjust the modes for this feature. The full ANC blocks the maximum external sounds. Whereas the Aware Mode allows some sound to be transmitted for situational awareness. 

Talk Time

The great thing is that its battery can last for about 12 hours even if the ANC option is turned on. When it is switched off, then the battery can last for more than 15 hours. It takes about 2 hours to charge the model completely. So, just a 10-15 minute charge time can give about 3-4 hours of usage. 

Triple Microphone

This headset comes with three different mics. They work together in such a way that they pick up the clearest sound for transmission. It features a DSP (Digital Signal Processing) technology to filter out background sound and transmit clear audio. The Beamforming technology focuses on the noise coming from a person and ignores the nearby noises. 

Wireless Range

When you connect the model through the USB adapter, then you get the signal even at 98 feet (30 meters) distance. By its original  Bluetooth connectivity, the wireless range falls between 30 and 50 feet (9 and 15 meters).

Customization

An interesting detail about this model is that you can customize the settings however you like. So, you can change button settings and control EQ settings through the Poly Lens Software hub. But there is more. You can also adjust active noise cancellation levels. 

Control Buttons

The controls for major features that include ANC, volume control, and answering calls are all available on the headset. You won’t need to go through detailed settings to control these features. 

UC Compatibility

The headset is UC certified. This means that it can work well with many important unified platforms such as Zoom, Google Meets, Teams, and others as well. 

BlackWire 5220: Wired Headset  

The Blackwire 5220 is a wired accessory that is created for professional purposes by Plantronics (now Poly). It is a great choice for office employees and remote workers. The gear is one of the best choices for performing call center duties. The headset is lightweight. So it provides great comfort when you have to wear it for an extended time. Also, the headset is wired. So there won't be any concerns about the battery life falling short. You can go through some of the main features of Blackwire 5220 below:  

Connectivity

This headset can connect in more than one way. Its typical connectivity is through the USB-C type cable. But it can also be connected through the use of a USB-A connector. That is not all. Additionally, it supports a 3.5 mm audio jack. Through this, it can be connected to phones and tablets. 

Noise Cancellation Mic

The model contains a boom mic that is designed to pick up the upfront, clear audio from the person and ignore background noises for call transmission. The mic is also flexible, which makes it easy to position the headset.

SoundGuard Digital Technology

It is one of the major issues, especially in a call center, that loud sounds appear. This might happen due to an angry customer or even maybe due to improper signal transmission. But the great thing is that this gear comes with hearing protection technology. This guards the ears from sudden loud sounds. 

Customization Features

The Blackwire 5220 settings are also customizable. So you can control sound profile, adjust control buttons, and update firmware. All this can happen with the help of the Poly Lens Software.  

UC Compatibility

This headset is also UC certified. So it works great with communication apps that include Zoom, Teams, Cisco jabber and many others. It means there would not be any interruption in the headset's working. Also, the dedicated controls can answer calls even for meeting applications.  

Control Buttons

You don’t need to go through detailed settings. Every setting is within your reach. The dedicated buttons for adjusting volume, attending a call, and muting options are available on the wire of the headset.  

Comparison of Voyager Focus UC vs Blackwire 5220

It is clear now that these two models give great functions for professional workspaces. Now let's have a look at the comparison between Voyager Focus UC vs Blackwire 5220 to see which is a better option. 

Which One To Choose: Voyager Focus UC vs Blackwire 5220

So now it is pretty clear that both of these headsets offer quality features for professional workers. The Voyager Focus UC stands out because of its ANC features and wireless freedom. But in professional environments where you need a headset to work all the time, the battery can be a concern if it runs out. 

In that case, if you don’t want to have any worries about the battery drainage,  then you can consider to opt for Blackwire 5220. What’s great about this wired model is that it has a noise-canceling mic. But unfortunately, it still lacks ANC options. 

It seems that both these headsets have great pros but also slight cons as well. At the end, the major factor to decide which headset to choose comes down to your particular need. 

So when it comes to call center work, it is recommended to go for Blackwire 5220. If you're a business professional or a remote worker, then the smart decision is to choose Voyager Focus UC. 

Final Verdict

There is no clear winner when it comes to Voyager Focus UC vs Blackwire 5220. The choice totally depends on your requirements. The Blackwire 5220 proves to be of great value for call center operations. In contrast, Voyager Focus UC is a good choice for remote and office work. So, both models are great, but for different professional purposes.