The EPOS IMPACT 100 is an entry level headset that punches well above its weight. Designed for talk-heavy professionals, it combines durability, all-day comfort, and essential call handling features into an ultra-lightweight headset. With its balance of price and performance, the IMPACT 100 is built to make an impression without breaking the bank.
Ultra-Light design with improved comfort
What immediately stands out about the EPOS IMPACT 100 is its astonishingly lightweight build. At just 76 grams for the stereo version and a mere 51 grams for the mono variant, it’s lighter than many comparable headsets in its class. This featherlight design is paired with a soft silicone headband and supple leatherette ear pads, which make wearing it for hours on end feel effortless. For professionals who spend their day in back-to-back calls, the comfort level alone makes this headset an attractive proposition.
Smart In-Line Controls
The call handling experience is another area where the IMPACT 100 impresses. Its smart in-line controller features distinctive backlit buttons that are intuitively designed, each with unique tactile shapes. This allows you to identify and use the controls without looking, streamlining the workflow for busy users who need to stay focused on their conversation rather than fiddling with buttons. For users of the Teams-certified variant, there’s a dedicated Microsoft Teams button that flashes to alert the user of notifications, adding an extra layer of productivity.
Exceptional Audio & Noise Cancellation
In terms of audio performance, the IMPACT 100 is equipped with a noise-cancelling, uni-directional electret condenser microphone that significantly enhances call clarity. It efficiently suppresses background distractions while capturing your voice with accuracy. Whether you’re in a bustling office or a noisy home environment, callers on the other end will hear you loud and clear. The headset also features a semi-closed dynamic speaker system, delivering a balanced, natural sound profile that’s perfect for both voice calls and occasional media playback. With a full frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz in music mode, it holds its own even during off-call sessions.
Flexible and Compatible
Flexibility is another subtle but meaningful strength of the IMPACT 100. Its boom arm can be rotated a full 270°, allowing users to wear it on either the left or right side based on personal preference. The positioning is smooth and adjustable, ensuring optimal voice pickup every time.
Connectivity is refreshingly straightforward. The headset comes with a USB-C connector and includes a USB-A adapter in the box, making it compatible with nearly all modern office hardware, from Macs and PCs to Chromebooks. Users won’t be left scrambling for dongles or hunting for compatible ports.
Safety and compliance as standard
Safety and durability is front of mind in the IMPACT 100’s design. EPOS’s signature ActiveGard™ technology protects users from sudden acoustic shocks, while additional compliance with EU and Australian hearing protection standards helps prevent long-term auditory strain. This is particularly important for roles that involve long hours on the line, and it’s a standout feature in this price segment.
Last but not least, there’s an environmental nod as well. The headset comes packaged in plastic-free, FSC-certified materials, reflecting a welcome commitment to sustainability. For businesses trying to make more responsible procurement decisions, that’s a definite bonus.
Ideal User Profiles
The EPOS IMPACT 100 is purpose-built for:
- Call Centre Agents: Lightweight comfort for day-long wear and crystal-clear communication for customer interactions.
- Remote and Hybrid Workers: Plug-and-play simplicity with professional-grade performance.
- UC Platform Users: Certified for Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet, and Webex, it ensures compatibility and seamless integration across platforms.
- Budget-Conscious Professionals: Those needing solid performance without premium price tags.
Selling Points for MSPs
For MSPs, the EPOS IMPACT 100 presents a compelling portfolio addition:
Low Cost, High ROI
At this key price point, this entry-level headset provides enterprise-level features, making it an easy upsell or bundle option.
Certified Compatibility
The IMPACT 100 is certified across Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet, Webex, and more – reducing compatibility issues and IT support calls.
Comfort and Versatility
Not only is it one of the lightest headsets on the market, it has comfort built in to both the headband and earpads as well.
Device Management via EPOS Software
Integration with EPOS Connect and EPOS Manager allows MSPs to push firmware updates, manage settings remotely, and standardise experiences across devices, simplifying fleet management.
Editor’s Verdict (this article first appeared in UC Advanced issue#19 magazine)
The EPOS IMPACT 100 nails the brief for an entry-level professional headset. Its featherlight comfort, business-grade audio, and thoughtful usability features make it ideal for high-volume voice users without stretching IT budgets. The addition of features typically reserved for more premium models, like ActiveGard™ protection and dual USB compatibility, sets it apart from other headsets in its price range.
For MSPs, it’s a plug-and-play solution that offers reliability, manageability, and margin. For users, it’s a headset that gives you more than what you pay for.
For UC Advanced, it receives our Editors Choice Award for June.