There are gaming headphones on the market both for amateurs who play at home a few times a week and for professional cyber athletes. Here the victory can depend on any little thing, so you should take the choice of "ears" seriously.
Content:
Recommendations:
The 10 best wireless headphones
, 6 best earbud headphones
, 7 best Oklick headphones
Best gaming headphones
For the review we have selected not only specialized headsets for gamers, but also several universal models that can be used for listening to music and watching movies. These options will suit those who don't want to buy two separate devices.
SteelSeries Arctis Pro GameDAC
Comfortable model with good sound.
Expensive and versatile wired headset - the choice of sophisticated audiophiles and experienced gamers who are willing to spend a lot of money for the sake of functionality and clear surround sound.
Pros:
- Comfortable headphones.
- Excellent sound quality.
- Separate DAC and amplifier.
- Compatible with smartphones and tablets.
- Fabric ear cushions.
The headset comes with digital-to-analog converter for Hi-Res sound clarity from PC or console. In addition, the model emulates 7.1 surround sound with DTS 2.0 technology.
The flexible retractable microphone is mounted in a recessed cup. Voice recording quality is at a good level, extraneous noise is effectively suppressed. Included with the headset is a wind shield for the microphone.
The model's DAC is equipped with an OLED display that helps you adjust the equalizer and adjust the sound balance. LED backlighting is provided to give the headphones a gaming style. The body of the headset is made of durable steel and aluminum.
The headphones cannot be precisely adjusted to the wearer's head, but you can adjust the height of the fit. The soft fabric ear cushions are well ventilated, so your ears won't sweat in them.
Corsair Virtuoso Wireless SE
The model with the best microphone.
A high-end gaming headset sold at a moderate price for its class. The harmonious combination of functionality and design complements compatibility with all gaming platforms.
Reasons to buy:
- Detachable omnidirectional microphone.
- Slipstream Wireless technology.
- Three ways to connect.
- Lightweight aluminum housing.
- Up to 20 hours of battery life.
The flagship model features the innovative Slipstream Wireless technology, which reduces audio latency. The advanced IFS Intelligent Frequency Manipulation method gives you a stable signal level up to 18 meters away from the transmitter. In addition, the headphones can be connected via the 3.5mm audio jack or USB port.
The housing is made of plastic and machined aluminum. The headband and ear cushions made of memory foam take the shape of your head, giving you comfort when you wear them for long periods of time.
The 50mm drivers have a very wide bandwidth from 20Hz to 40kHz. The detachable microphone is Discord certified, ensuring voice clarity and no interference. RGB backlighting is provided. To configure the headset, use the proprietary iCUE app.
Beyerdynamic Custom Game
Advanced corded headset
A large and heavy gaming model for those looking for powerful bass. The device has a sound profile switch, which increases versatility - the headset is easy to use at home or at professional eSports tournaments.
Reasons to buy:
- Great sound with powerful bass.
- Good sound isolation.
- Effective noise suppression.
- Durability.
- Removable cable.
One of the main advantages of the model is the choice of sound profiles: each headphone has a switch that has four positions. The cardioid microphone with clear sound has a volume control and is suitable for communication in applications such as Discord.
The sturdy headphone frame is made of metal. The padded ear cushions make long gaming sessions comfortable and interchangeable ear pads so you can find the right fit for your style.
The headset connects to consoles and your computer with a 3.5-m audio jack. The cable length is 1.6 meters, but it also comes with an extension cord. The wire itself detaches from the headset.
HyperX Cloud Flight S
Wireless headset
A handy gaming model with long battery life and wireless charging. It has all the features a gamer needs, making it a great multiplatform option.
Reasons to buy:
- Quality surround sound.
- Supports Qi wireless charging standard.
- 30 hours of battery life.
- Discord and TeamSpeak certification.
- Long wear comfort.
HyperX is a great headphone that supports Qi wireless charging. The headset has a high-capacity battery designed for 30 hours of active use.
The working radius of the USB adapter for connecting with other devices is 20 m. The detachable microphone has an LED mute indicator and is certified for the applications TeamSpeak and Discord.
The device has a smart folding design and comfortable ergonomics for gamers. The right cup has a volume control wheel that is easy to grip with your thumb. The buttons on the left cup adjust the balance of the game sound and voice chat, and the connectors and HyperX 7.1 surround keys are hidden at the bottom.
SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless
Great value for money
If you're looking for a cheaper headset than the previous ones, the SteelSeries Arctis is worth considering. The model delivers quality sound and is suitable for both computer and console use, as well as handheld devices, including the Nintendo Switch.
Pros:
- Great value for money.
- Detachable microphone.
- Compatible with most gaming systems.
- Quality sound.
- Long battery life.
Cons:
- Not the best microphone quality.
Universal model for different gaming platforms, thanks to its sound is well suited for online games, where you need a quick reaction to the actions of the enemy. The headset battery lasts more than 20-25 hours without recharging. The SteelSeries Engine app is used to adjust the equalizer and sound level.
The headset's microphone detaches easily for easy portability. The model transmits wirelessly at 2.4 GHz using a USB-C receiver. If you prefer a wire, you can use the included universal cable for the 3.5mm audio jack.
The headphones are made with SteelSeries proprietary materials, so heat dissipation in a hot room won't be an issue. The padded headband doesn't press on your head and is reinforced with steel elements.
HyperX Cloud Alpha
Rugged performance with great sound
A simple headset in the "gaming" style for those who do not want to spend money for the sake of extra features. The main advantage of the device is the sound quality, which is comparable to much more expensive headphones.
Reasons to buy:
- Excellent sound quality.
- Sound isolation at a high level.
- Rugged construction.
- Long wearing comfort.
- Reasonable price.
This is a wired headset for gamers who need a device without extra functionality, but copes well with its work. The detachable microphone on a movable mount is not a studio quality recording, but it is suitable for communicating in voice chats. Connect to other devices using a standard 3.5mm audio jack.
The sturdy metal frame is complemented by thick headphones with memory foam filler. The ear cushions completely cover your ears and block out extraneous sounds.
Some gamers will note the lack of LED backlighting, for others it will be a plus. The package includes an extension cord with adapter, carrying case and replacement ear cushions. There are different color versions of the model.
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Expensive universal headset
One of the best models with noise cancellation and quality microphone. The device cannot be classified as a purely gaming model. Nevertheless, it is a good option for active smartphone users and fans of popular game consoles.
Reasons to buy:
- Quick access to the voice assistant.
- Low weight and comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
- Excellent noise cancellation system.
- Good built-in microphone.
- 20 hours of battery life.
Convenient model for playing games or listening to music in comfort. The main features of the headset: a system of active noise cancellation with three modes of intensity and a button that activates the assistant Google or Siri. The assistant helps you control the device connected to the headphones with voice commands. There is an NFC function and a useful phone app.
The headset is connected via a 3.5mm audio jack or via Bluetooth (for Android and Apple mobile devices). Fast charging in 15 minutes gives you an extra 2.5 hours of use.
The model's durable body is made of reinforced nylon, and the headband is wrapped in durable and soft Alcantara material. Noise-canceling microphones on the headphone cup are used for noise cancellation.
Audio-Technica ATH-G1.
Simple design and great microphone
Audio-Technica offers a solution for those who aren't overly concerned with the appearance of the headset, but are interested in the essentials - great clear sound. In addition, the headphones will not be hot in the summer, because the lightweight design has good ventilation.
Pros:
- Clear sound.
- Clear condenser microphone.
- Low weight.
- Adjustable design.
- Compatible with all gaming devices.
Cons:
- The microphone is clear, but quiet.
Impressive technical specifications allow you to classify this model as a high-level device. The headset is suitable for listening to music and offers a wide frequency range: from 5 Hz to 40 kHz. The headphones produce clear sound even with strong bass.
The outer part of the ear cushions is made of leatherette and the inner part is made of fabric. This combination of materials creates good sound insulation and at the same time comfort during prolonged use.
Compatible with computers and all devices with a standard 3.5mm audio jack. Comes with a splitter, wire with volume control and mute button, as well as a removable microphone itself with a pop filter. The length of the wire is 2 m.
Razer Kaira Pro.
Gaming model for the Xbox
The device is designed primarily for gamers who use the Xbox console, as well as fans of playing on a smartphone or tablet.
Pros:
- The headset is comfortable for extended wear.
- Quality microphone.
- Long battery life without recharging.
- Xbox Wireless support.
- Works with mobile devices via Bluetooth.
Cons:
- You need an adapter for PC.
The headset offers several Xbox-exclusive features. First, it's compatible with Xbox Wireless technology without the need for additional cables or transmitters. Second is Windows Sonic surround sound. Alas, the headset is not suitable for listening to certain genres of music, although it does well with electronics or hip-hop.
To connect to a computer you need a special adapter, and to connect to mobile devices uses Bluetooth. The battery life of the device is 15 hours with LEDs on - the headphone cups have Chroma RGB backlighting.
Logitech G Pro X
Computer headset with external audio card
This model combines good sound and quality microphone with a clever design. A proprietary computer app is used for detailed setup and control of the headset.
Pros:
- Quality surround sound.
- Blue Vo!ce technology.
- The headphones are comfortable for long gaming sessions.
- A wide range of equipment.
- Reasonable cost.
Cons:
- Need a computer app for full use.
Wired headphones with an external sound card and detachable cable for the 3.5mm audio jack support DTS 2.0 technology, which creates surround sound and helps locate the sound source in games. Blue Vo!ce technology removes noise and microphone hiss.
The advanced G Hub software allows you to fine tune the headset and control all functions. It also adds equalizer profiles to match the settings of cyber athletes.
The headphone cushions have a breathable coating and memory foam. A separate cable with a built-in microphone is available for use with handheld devices. A wireless version of the headset is also available.
Razer Kraken X
Available option
The budget headset is designed primarily for gaming on the computer, but it is also compatible with other platforms, including smartphones.
Pros:
- Rugged construction.
- 7.1-channel surround sound emulator.
- Multi-platform.
- Low weight.
- Low price.
Cons:
- Surround sound is only available for Windows 10.
- Fixed cups.
The headset is equipped with 40-mm speakers and a cardioid microphone on a flexible mount. It delivers explosions and gunfire in games, but you'll hear your enemies' footsteps in shooters with more impact. Kraken X supports surround sound on Windows 10. A 3.5mm jack is used to connect to devices.
Special grooves on the headphones make listening in glasses more comfortable. For added comfort, the ear cushions are made of memory foam and the headband is padded. Under the left ear cup you will find the controls: mute button and volume control. The headset has a small weight of 250 g.
Sony Pulse 3D PS5
Especially for PS5
Although the included adapter lets you connect this model to both your PC and PlayStation 4, the headset is designed specifically for one gaming platform - PS5.
Reasons to buy:
- Tempest 3D AudioTech support.
- Noise-canceling microphones.
- High quality workmanship.
- Compatibility with other devices.
The wireless model is released for the PlayStation 5 game console. The headphones are optimized to work with Tempest 3D AudioTech - a new technology of surround sound emulation from Sony, which enhances the effect of presence.
The headset is equipped with two microphones with improved noise cancellation. The owner can adjust the overall volume, as well as separately for chat or game. The model has a 3.5mm audio jack and a USB-C charging port.
The design of the Sony Pulse matches the style of the console: the headband is white and the cups are matte gray-black. The device also comes with a USB adapter for wireless connection to Windows and macOS computers.
The 5 best gaming headphones with microphone
How to choose gaming headphones?
Despite the similarity of the characteristics that are listed in the specifications, each model of gaming headphones sounds different. Because of this, people who are not versed in audio technology can have problems when choosing. Below are the main points to which you need to pay attention.
Gaming headphones have additional requirements. A good model should:
- Produce clear sound in the middle frequency range, without requiring additional equipment.
- Handle bass without overloading in explosions and gunshots.
- Help the gamer accurately locate audio sources in the game world, which requires high-quality 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound emulation.
- Transmit the player's speech to his fellow gamers without interference.
- Not create discomfort after 2-3 hours of use.
Some gaming devices can rival the sound of headphones designed only for listening to music, but you will have to pay extra for similar sound quality.
There are several main parameters that affect the sound of headphones: frequency range, sensitivity, impedance and nonlinear distortion coefficient.
In any case it is better to choose models that completely cover the range of frequencies audible to the human ear, from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Headphones with the upper frequency range beyond 20 kHz hide playback defects beyond the audibility threshold. The greater the margin in the upper frequencies, the clearer the sound.
The sensitivity largely determines the volume of the sound. For comfortable listening 100 dB is enough, although values from 90 to 120 dB are found in different models.
Be sure to pay attention to impedance. The greater the impedance, expressed in ohms, the stiffer the speaker diaphragm and the less it makes vibrations, spoiling the sound quality. The norm for gaming headphones is impedance of 50 ohms, high impedance models - more than 100 ohms - are considered professional and are used in studios.
The coefficient of nonlinear distortion shows how far the sound waveform is from the ideal sinusoid. The lower this value is, the cleaner the sound is. The recommended value is less than 1%.
Some headsets have a noise cancellation system that filters out background noise and makes the sound clearer. This is a useful feature even if the headphones are only used in a quiet home environment.
An important quality indicator for gaming headsets is convenience and comfort for long wearing, because gaming sessions sometimes last for 7-8 hours, or even longer:
- The headphones should be lightweight, because your neck will quickly get tired if you wear models heavier than 400 grams. It is worth choosing headsets made of plastic or lightweight aluminum.
- The ear cushions and the headband should have soft padding, preferably made of fabric with good ventilation.
- Another plus is the adjustable design with movable cups. If you wear glasses, you should consider buying headphones with special grooves in the ear cushions.
The microphone is quite an important element of a gaming headset. In cheap models your voice will sound "like from a bucket", unintelligible or too quiet. The latter problem is solved by increasing the volume in the settings of the application where the communication, such as Discord.
Some microphones are equipped with a mute button that mutes your voice when you need to take your mind off the game. If the headset will often be taken on the road as a regular headset, a good solution is to get a model with a removable microphone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need a specialized gaming headset?
Of course, you don't need a dedicated gaming headset. You can get basic speakers and a separate microphone, but a headset is a much better choice. It combines everything gamers need: better comfort for extended gaming sessions, customizable sound profile, support for multiple gaming platforms, and a quality microphone for teammates.
What type of headphones is better for gaming?
In most online games and eSports disciplines, the speed at which sound travels from an object in the virtual world to the headphones is important to gamers. If there is a long delay, the sound will start to lag behind, preventing you from reacting to the events in the game.
Wired headsets with standard 3.5mm audio jacks, as well as models that work through a USB cable, transmit the signal the fastest. Wireless connection implies an increased delay, but any high-quality model is also suitable for professional gamers. That said, Bluetooth-connected headphones have the longest latency, so it's worth looking in the direction of radio-frequency models.
How good are gaming headsets for listening to music?
The best gaming models are quite suitable for different genres, although audiophiles will still be dissatisfied: gaming gamers most often emphasize low and middle frequencies, reducing the emphasis of high. This helps to better navigate the game world, but impoverishes the music. Therefore, for the sake of listening to music with maximum quality it is better to buy specialized headphones.
Topical materials:
12 best headphones for music
, The 4 best A4Tech Bloody gaming headphones
, Red Square's top 5 headphones
, The 5 best open headphones
, 5 best glow headphones
, 6 best HyperX headphones
, 6 best Qumo headphones
, 6 best surround sound headphones
, 9 best Plantronics headphones
