Want an office headset amplifier that connects to both your phone and your computer's USB port, adds a training port for onboarding new staff, and supports a busylight so colleagues know you're on a call? The Jabra Link 860 does all of that, plus built-in noise cancellation to clean up your audio.
Quick answer
What the Jabra Link 860 offers
The Link 860 replaced the earlier Jabra Link 850. From the outside, the two look nearly identical — the main visible change is a switch that lets you toggle between computer and desk phone audio, which the 850 didn't have.
The Link 860 is a corded headset amplifier built for offices that need more than a basic phone connection. It bridges your desk phone and your computer's USB port in one unit, so the same headset works for traditional calls and any softphone platform. Beyond that dual connectivity, it adds:
- A training port — plug in a second headset so a trainer or supervisor can listen in alongside a new hire.
- A busylight port — pair with the Jabra On-Line Busy Light so colleagues can see when you're on a call.
- Built-in noise cancellation — removes line hiss and background buzz for cleaner audio on both ends of the call.
One honest limitation: the Link 860 is powered entirely through its USB connection — either from a computer, or from a Jabra AC power adapter sold separately. Unlike some amplifiers, Jabra doesn't include a standalone power source in the box, so if you don't have a nearby USB port and don't already own the adapter, budget for that as a separate purchase.
Compared to Plantronics' equivalent corded amplifier (the Poly MDA524), the Link 860 has two features Plantronics' unit doesn't offer: a training/listen-in port for a second headset, and busylight support.
It's compatible with all corded Jabra/GN Netcom headsets, making it a straightforward upgrade for any desk running a Jabra corded headset that wants computer connectivity, training capability, or a busylight without buying a new headset.
What is the Jabra Link 860?
The Jabra Link 860 is a digital headset amplifier that connects a corded Jabra/GN Netcom headset to both a desk phone and a computer's USB port, adding a training port, a busylight port, and built-in noise cancellation. It replaced the earlier Jabra Link 850.
Does the Jabra Link 860 work with VoIP and softphone platforms?
Yes. The USB connection on the Link 860 works with any computer-based softphone platform, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Webex, in addition to a traditional desk phone connection.
Can I use a busylight with the Jabra Link 860?
Yes. The Link 860 has a dedicated busylight port, compatible with the Jabra On-Line Busy Light, so colleagues can see a visual indicator when you're on a call.
Does the Jabra Link 860 come with a power adapter?
No. The Link 860 is powered through its USB connection — either from a computer or a Jabra AC power adapter, which is sold separately. If you don't have a nearby USB port, plan to purchase the adapter separately.
How does the Jabra Link 860 compare to the Plantronics MDA524?
The Link 860 offers two features the Poly MDA524 doesn't: a training/listen-in port for pairing a second headset, and busylight support. Both connect a corded headset to a desk phone and computer, but the Link 860 has more built-in functionality for training and status visibility.
If you're already using a corded Jabra headset and want computer connectivity, a training setup, or a busylight, the Jabra Link 860 covers all three in one amplifier. Call our team at 877-999-3838 to confirm compatibility with your specific headset.
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