Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo Review
Discover the Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo headphones, your dependable companion for work and leisure. Enjoy clear audio, comfortable design, and seamless connectivity without breaking the bank.
check best priceSummary / TL;DR
The Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo headphones are designed for both work and leisure, offering solid performance at a reasonable price. They focus on audio clarity and ease of use, though they lack some advanced features of pricier models.
The design is sleek and professional with black and silver accents. Made primarily of plastic, they are lightweight but not the most durable. Padded ear cups and an adjustable headband provide comfort, though the fit may be tight for larger heads. The non-detachable microphone is flexible but might be a downside for some.
Comfort is a highlight, with soft leatherette ear cushions that reduce pressure. However, glasses-wearers might experience some discomfort over long periods. The audio performance is clear and balanced, suitable for calls and casual listening, but not for audiophiles seeking immersive sound.
The noise-canceling microphone is effective, though not perfect in very noisy environments. Connectivity is straightforward with a USB connection, making it easy to use with various UC platforms. However, Mac users might face some functionality issues.
The controls are user-friendly, with an inline unit for volume and call management. The package includes the headphones, a USB controller, a quick start guide, and a warranty card.
Priced in the mid-range, the headphones offer good value for money, providing reliability and comfort for daily use. While they lack wireless connectivity and high-end audio features, they are a solid choice for work or study needs.
If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Jabra Evolve 40 UC or Jabra Evolve2 65 Flex MS or Jabra Elite 10.
Introduction
If you're on the lookout for a set of headphones that won't just sit there looking pretty, but actually do the job, you've come to the right place. The Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo is designed to be your dependable companion for both work and leisure. Whether you're on endless conference calls or catching up on your favorite podcast, these headphones aim to deliver solid performance without breaking the bank.
The market is flooded with options, but let's cut through the noise. What sets these headphones apart? For starters, they focus on audio clarity and ease of use. And while they may not have all the bells and whistles of pricier models, they more than make up for it with solid core features.
However, no product is perfect. While the Evolve 20SE UC Stereo does many things right, it has a few quirks. Still, it might just be the right fit for your needs. Curious to know more? Stick around as we dig into the nitty-gritty details.
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Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality of the Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo is a mixed bag, but mostly in a good way. First off, the headset sports a sleek and professional look with its black and silver accents. It's clear that aesthetics were a priority, and it definitely fits right in with both casual and professional settings. Now, let's talk about the materials. The headset is made primarily of plastic, which keeps it lightweight but also raises some concerns about durability. While it feels sturdy enough for everyday use, it might not withstand heavy drops or overly rough handling. On the bright side, the plastic used doesn't feel cheap—it has a matte finish that adds a bit of sophistication.
One thing you'll immediately notice is the padded ear cups. They're covered in a soft leatherette material that feels plush and inviting. This makes the headset comfortable to wear for extended periods, which we'll delve into more in the "Comfort and Fit" section. The padding also helps with passive noise isolation, keeping external distractions at bay. The headband is adjustable and has a decent range, making it suitable for various head sizes. However, if you have a larger head, you might find it a tad tight after prolonged use. The microphone boom is flexible and can be easily positioned as needed. It doesn't feel flimsy, which is a plus. However, the fact that it's non-detachable might be a downside for some, especially if you're looking for versatility in your headset.
To sum it up, the Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo has a well-thought-out design with a professional aesthetic. The materials used strike a balance between lightness and durability, although the plastic construction might not be the most robust. The comfort provided by the padded ear cups is a definite highlight, but the non-detachable mic could be a dealbreaker for a few. Overall, it's a solidly built headset that looks good and feels comfortable.

Comfort and Fit
If you're planning to wear these headphones for extended periods, you'll be glad to know that comfort and fit are top-notch. The ear cushions are made from a soft leatherette material that feels gentle against your ears. They're quite padded, which helps in reducing pressure and prevents that dreaded ear fatigue. The headband is adjustable and lightweight, making it easy to find your perfect fit without any hassle. While it doesn’t have any fancy memory foam, it’s still comfy enough for most users. The clamping force is moderate, ensuring the headphones stay secure without squeezing your head like a vice.
However, if you wear glasses, you might feel a bit of discomfort after a few hours. But let's be real, which headphones are truly perfect for glasses-wearers? It's a bit of a compromise, but not a deal-breaker. Overall, the Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo delivers a solid balance of comfort and fit, making it a reliable choice for daily use, especially during long calls or work sessions.

Audio Performance
The audio performance of the Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo is pretty solid, especially for its price range. You'll find that these headphones deliver clear and balanced sound. The stereo output offers crisp highs and decent mids, making them ideal for both voice calls and a bit of music. However, don't expect booming bass; these are not designed for thumping beats or hardcore audiophiles.
Voices come through clearly, which is great for conference calls and online meetings. The headphones feature a noise-canceling microphone that does a good job of isolating your voice from background noise. This ensures that you're heard clearly on the other end, even if you're in a bustling environment.
One thing to keep in mind is that, while the audio quality is good for calls and casual listening, it might not satisfy someone looking for a more immersive audio experience. The soundstage isn't very wide, so you won't get that "in the room with the band" feeling, but for everyday use, they're more than adequate.
If you're looking for a reliable pair of headphones for work or casual listening, the Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo does the job well. However, if you need headphones for high-quality music playback or gaming, you might want to explore other options.
Microphone Quality
The microphone quality on the Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo is surprisingly impressive, especially for its price bracket. The noise-cancelling tech does a fantastic job of cutting out background noise, which is crucial if you're working in a busy office or a home environment with kids and pets running around.
Clarity is top-notch; your voice comes through crisp and clear, making it perfect for conference calls or virtual meetings. You won't have to worry about folks on the other end asking you to repeat yourself. The boom arm is also flexible, allowing you to position the mic just right to pick up your voice without any hassle. However, there are a couple of things to note.
While the noise cancellation is good, it's not perfect. In extremely noisy environments, some background sounds might still sneak through. Additionally, the mic might pick up plosives (those harsh "p" and "b" sounds) if it's positioned too close to your mouth. Overall, for the price, the microphone quality is more than satisfactory. It strikes a good balance between performance and affordability, making it a solid choice for everyday use.

Connectivity and Compatibility
Connectivity and Compatibility are vital for any pair of headphones, and the Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo doesn't disappoint on these fronts. It uses a straightforward USB connection, making it super easy to plug into your laptop or desktop. No need to mess around with Bluetooth pairing or worry about battery life—just plug and play.
Compatibility-wise, these headphones work seamlessly with UC platforms like Microsoft Teams, Skype for Business, and Zoom. This is a big plus if you’re juggling different video conferencing apps. It’s almost like having that Swiss Army knife in your tech toolbox. But here's the catch: if you’re a Mac user, you might notice that some functionalities, like the in-line call control buttons, don't work as smoothly as they do on Windows.
You might miss wireless flexibility if you're a fan of moving around untethered. The USB cord can feel a bit restrictive, especially if you like to pace while on calls. But for those who prioritize a stable, hassle-free connection, this wired setup is actually a blessing in disguise.
All in all, the Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo offers solid connectivity and broad compatibility for everyday office needs. Just be aware of some small quirks if you're not using a Windows OS. It's a reliable choice for a wired option, but it might not fit everybody's bill, especially if you’re dreaming of wireless freedom.
Controls and Usability
The controls on the Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo are straightforward and user-friendly. The inline control unit is easy to find and use, especially during those hectic work calls. It offers convenient access to essential functions without forcing you to fumble around.
Inline Control Unit
This little gem lets you adjust volume, mute/unmute the microphone, and even answer/end calls with just a quick tap. It's like having a mini command center right at your fingertips. Plus, the buttons are tactile and responsive, so you won’t accidentally press the wrong one.
Software Integration
The headset also works seamlessly with popular communication platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Skype for Business. That compatibility ensures you won't have to deal with any frustrating setup issues. Just plug it in, and you’re ready to go. Easy peasy!
Plug-and-Play
One of the best parts? It's totally plug-and-play. You don’t need any complicated installation processes or driver downloads. Just plug it into a USB port, and you’re good to go. It’s perfect for those who aren’t tech-savvy or just want a hassle-free experience.
However, one minor downside is that the inline control unit is wired, so if you’re a fan of a wireless setup, this might be a bit of a letdown. But hey, for what it offers, it’s a small trade-off.
What's in the Box
Alright, let's open up that box and see what exactly you get with this set of headphones. When you crack open the packaging, you'll find the following items neatly organized:
- Headphone Unit: The main star of the show, of course! The headphones are designed to be ready for immediate use.
- USB Controller: This handy little gizmo lets you control volume, answer/end calls, mute, etc., with ease. It's pretty intuitive and useful.
- Quick Start Guide: If you're like me, you might usually ignore these. But this one is pretty helpful and gets you up and running in no time.
- Warranty Card: Standard stuff, but always good to know you're covered if something goes wrong.
The packaging itself is straightforward and minimalistic. It’s not flashy, but it does keep everything secure. There’s no carrying case included, though, which is a bit of a bummer if you're always on the go. Overall, what you get in the box is pretty much everything you need to get started. No unnecessary frills, just the essentials.
Price and Value for Money
Alright, let's talk dollars and sense. The Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo is priced in the mid-range category, making it an appealing option for folks who want decent quality without breaking the bank. Is it worth the investment? Well, let's break it down.
For the price, you get a solid package with some noteworthy features. The stereo sound quality is quite impressive for this price point. You're not getting audiophile-level performance, but it's more than enough for daily calls and meetings. The microphone quality is also decent, making it a good pick for remote work or online classes.
One of the best aspects is the comfort and fit. You can wear these headphones for hours without feeling like your ears are in a vice grip. That’s a pretty big deal if you’re spending a lot of time on calls. Plus, the build quality is sturdy, so they should last a good while.
But let's not kid ourselves; there are some trade-offs. The connectivity is basic, relying on a wired USB connection. If you’re expecting Bluetooth or wireless options, you're out of luck. Also, while the sound is good, it won't blow you away if you're an audiophile.
In the box, you get everything you need to get started, but don't expect any luxury extras. It's pretty straightforward with the essentials and nothing more.
So, is it a good buy? If you’re looking for a reliable, mid-range headset for work or study, you’ll find it to be a solid investment. You get what you pay for—and in this case, you're getting quite a bit for a reasonable price.
Conclusion
Wrapping it all up, the Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable headset for calls and basic audio tasks. Its sleek design, sturdy build, and above-average comfort make it great for long work sessions. Audio quality is pretty decent, especially considering its price point. While it might not blow away audiophiles, it's definitely good enough for regular calls and casual listening. The microphone is another strong point, delivering clear voice capture, which is a must for any professional environment. On the flip side, some might find the lack of wireless connectivity a bit of a downer, especially in a world where everything is going cordless. And if you're looking for something that delivers a rich, immersive sound experience for music and gaming, this might not hit the mark.
However, the value for money here is undeniable. With easy-to-use controls and a straightforward setup process, it offers a lot without breaking the bank. If you need a no-nonsense headset for day-to-day office or remote work, this one fits the bill nicely.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Clear and balanced audio
- Comfortable padded ear cups
- Noise-canceling microphone
- Easy plug-and-play setup
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Plastic build may lack durability
- Non-detachable microphone
- No wireless connectivity
- Tight fit for larger heads
Technical specifications
Product Name | Jabra Evolve 20SE UC Stereo |
---|---|
Product Type | Wired Headset |
Connectivity | USB-A |
Compatibility | Unified Communications (UC) |
Microphone | Noise-cancelling unidirectional microphone |
Speaker Frequency Range | 150 Hz - 7 kHz |
Speaker Sensitivity | 93.6 dB SPL @ 1 kHz |
Microphone Frequency Range | 100 Hz - 10 kHz |
Microphone Sensitivity | -44 dB V/Pa |
Control Unit | In-line call control unit |
Ear Cushion Material | Foam |
Headband | Adjustable |
Weight | 171 grams |
Dimensions | 141 x 60 x 181 mm |
Color | Black |
Warranty | 2 years |
Certifications | CE, FCC, KCC, RCM |
Operating Temperature | -10°C to +50°C |
Storage Temperature | -30°C to +80°C |
Package Contents | Headset, Quick Start Guide, Warranty Leaflet |