What type of sound powered telephone is designed for personal use?

The type of sound powered telephone designed for personal use is the headset. Headsets provide a hands-free communication option, which is particularly useful in environments where individuals need to maintain mobility or require the ability to use both hands for other tasks while communicating. This type of device often includes both an earpiece and a microphone, allowing for direct conversation without the need for a handheld unit.

In contrast, while a handset is also a personal communication device, it typically requires the user to hold it to their ear, which may not be as convenient for tasks that demand the use of hands. Other options like walkie-talkies and microphones serve different communication purposes; walkie-talkies are more suited for group communications over distances, and microphones are primarily for capturing sound rather than facilitating two-way conversation. Thus, the headset stands out as the most suitable option for personal use, emphasizing both convenience and ease of operation.