The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Gaming Headset

During the early stages of the gaming industry, there was limited availability of accessories for gaming consoles and PC games. This was especially true when it came to "gaming headsets." As online gaming was not a prominent feature at the time, there was little demand for a headphone/microphone combination device that would facilitate communication between gamers. Instead, players would typically use standard aux-corded headphones or earbuds for better sound quality.

Today, the gaming industry offers a wide range of specialized headsets and microphones designed specifically for gaming. These products are designed to enhance the gaming experience by emphasizing specific sound ranges. However, some gamers may question the necessity of investing in a gaming headset, considering their potentially high cost, when regular headphones or earbuds can suffice. To help players make an informed decision, let's explore the features and benefits of gaming headsets.

What Are Gaming Headsets For?

Gaming headsets offer the convenience of a combined microphone and headphone in a user-friendly package. For gamers who frequently play online or create gaming-related content, having both a microphone and headphones is essential for clear communication and sound. While some players may prefer separate devices for better control and customization, managing two separate pieces of hardware can be cumbersome for the average gamer.

Gaming headsets simplify the process, particularly for console gaming where connecting multiple devices can be frustrating and confusing. Gamers who want to quickly go online and chat with friends or other players will appreciate the plug-and-play feature of gaming headsets. There are headsets designed specifically for certain consoles, as well as versatile gaming headsets that can connect to both consoles and PCs using separate cables and adapters (typically included with the headset).

What Makes Gaming Headsets Different From Normal Headphones?

When considering whether to purchase a gaming headset or headphones, it's important for players to take into account the fact that gaming headsets offer more than just a combination of audio devices. They provide specialized sound-tuning features that set them apart from standard headphones. Traditional earbuds, on-ear, and over-ear headphones are primarily designed for music and general entertainment purposes. As a result, manufacturers put significant effort into developing drivers and companion software that allow users to customize their listening experience. This includes features like adjusting the Treble and Bass, as well as accessing various pre-sets and equalizers to enhance the quality based on personal preferences and musical genres.

In contrast, gaming headsets prioritize different functionalities and may not offer as many customizable options or adjustable Treble. Their main focus is on providing players with access to a wide range of sounds that they might not otherwise hear while playing a game using regular music-oriented headphones. Gaming headsets are typically tuned to deliver heavier Bass and emphasize specific frequency ranges, such as enemy footsteps or other in-game sound effects. Additionally, they place a significant emphasis on Surround Sound, aiming to create the most immersive gaming experience possible. While music can certainly enhance the overall game experience, it is often the sound effects that contribute significantly to making gamers feel fully engaged in the action.

This strong emphasis on Surround Sound can also benefit competitive multiplayer or PvP players by enhancing their ability to hear opponents. However, gaming headsets do have their drawbacks. While there are many gaming headsets suitable for both gaming and music in today's era, they tend to be quite expensive. Players should anticipate a higher price tag if they desire a gaming headset with numerous features like a removable microphone or active noise cancelling. Additionally, gaming headsets generally provide inferior sound quality for casual listening and may be harsh for individuals using them for music, television, or audiobooks. To discover our recommended headsets, check out our lists of the top overall gaming headsets, best wireless gaming headsets, and finest wired gaming headsets.

Do I Need A Gaming Headset?

Gaming headsets are a valuable investment for players seeking to communicate effectively with other gamers. They greatly enhance multiplayer gaming experiences by improving cooperation, which is vital for achieving competitiveness. Additionally, those who prefer single-player games can also indulge in more immersive experiences, thanks to the superior sound drivers of gaming headsets that bring out hidden sounds which may go unnoticed with regular headsets. These enhancements truly intensify the action.

In the past, plain headphones and earbuds were considerably inferior to gaming headsets in terms of sound quality. However, this gap has been bridged in recent years, enabling users to obtain similar audio performance from high-end headphones as they would with gaming headsets. Nonetheless, finding affordable options for headphones or earbuds with decent microphones remains a challenge.

Looking to enhance game audio quality? A great option is investing in a gaming headset with a built-in microphone. Not only do gaming headsets offer convenience by providing players with easy access to a communication device, but they also eliminate the need to purchase additional products for voice chatting with friends and fellow players. This is particularly beneficial for console gamers who are confined by console or controller-specific ports. With a gaming headset, console gamers can communicate effortlessly without the hassle of going through various additional steps.

Content: However, streamers and other professionals in the voice industry often discover that using headset microphones is not worthwhile and can even hinder recording. For these individuals, opting for headphones or earbuds along with a dedicated microphone is the superior choice. Wireless earbuds have the added advantage of being discreet and avoiding issues such as messing up your hair, getting snagged on earrings, or falling off when leaning back. Additionally, separate recording microphones prove beneficial for streamers and performers as they allow voice audio to be edited independently from game audio, making it an essential feature for most professionals.

However, it is important to note that most gamers are not famous streamers. Hence, gaming headsets ultimately serve as a great advantage for players. Those who desire a Surround Sound experience or wish to engage in online play should unquestionably opt for a headset instead of merely using headphones or earbuds.

How Much Are Gaming Headsets?

Fortunately, in today's era, there is a wide range of gaming headsets available to suit every budget. Expensive headsets are no longer necessary to attain good sound quality. For those seeking a reliable gaming headset suitable for both PC and Console, a mid-range option from a reputable company can be purchased for approximately $50-$100. However, for those who prefer not to spend as much, alternative options from lesser-known companies can be found on websites such as Amazon, eBay, and Newegg.

It is important to recognize that a lesser-known company offering a more affordable product does not necessarily equate to a subpar gaming headset. In reality, there are numerous headsets priced between $20-$40 that are more than sufficient for the average gamer. These headsets provide enhanced gaming experiences through superior comfort for extended periods of use and finely-tuned drivers. The lower prices often indicate the lifespan of the device rather than its overall quality. If a $20 gaming headset can last until the player is able to invest in a higher-end alternative or even until they can afford to replace it with another $20 headset, it is often more than adequate for budget-conscious gamers.

Content: Conversely, individuals seeking a more luxurious option can anticipate their device to deliver exceptional audio quality, along with the convenience of companion software and equalizers for personalized adjustment. These high-end headsets are built to endure for several years, and consumers are willing to invest between $150 and $300 in order to obtain superior quality. The gaming headset market offers a wide range of choices, accommodating different preferences and budgets. Prices fluctuate based on factors such as the materials employed, the headset's features, and the reputation of the brand.

What is the best headset brand?

Content: Each gaming headset brand has its own unique style and advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is difficult to determine a single brand as the absolute best. However, there are certain industry leaders known for specific qualities.

Razer, for example, excels at combining performance with RGB lighting and equips their headsets with powerful drivers and long-lasting batteries. Similarly, Logitech is reliable for impressive battery life in their high-quality headsets, which, although they may not have RGB lighting, often come in fun colors not commonly seen in the market. HyperX, Microsoft, Sony, and Turtle Beach are widely recognized brands with a diverse range of features and price points. While Astro and Corsair headsets might be pricier, their exceptional specifications make them a worthwhile choice for many gamers. Currently, SteelSeries is regarded as one of the top high-end headset brands, with the Steelseries Arctis Nova Pro wireless headset being our favored option.

Every brand is in a constant pursuit of outdoing their competitors, which means the title of being the very best changes frequently. Luckily, purchasing a headset is not something done on a daily basis, allowing gamers to carefully select the one that suits them best. By carefully evaluating each of these factors alongside personal preferences, players can find a dependable headset that enhances communication and elevates immersion in every gaming experience.

How to Choose A Gaming Headset

Choosing the ideal gaming headset can be a daunting task due to the abundance of options available, along with varying prices. However, making this decision doesn't have to be overwhelming! By taking a few essential factors into account, you can easily select the perfect gaming headset.

Determining the size

Not all gaming headsets are suitable for every age group. To avoid buying a headset that doesn't fit, it is essential to refer to the sizing chart for adjustable headsets. Individuals with head and ear sizes outside the average range may experience difficulties in finding a well-fitting headset, which can also lead to discomfort and pain while wearing it.

Managing Sound

When it comes to gaming headsets, the majority of them come equipped with a degree of noise-cancellation and isolation. This is essential as noise-cancelling headphones help block out external sounds, allowing gamers to fully immerse themselves in their game audio and team conversations. On the other hand, noise-isolating headsets effectively prevent any sounds other than the player's voice from interfering with the microphone. However, it is worth noting that the better these features perform, the more expensive the headset is likely to be.

Now let's consider the comparison between wired and wireless headsets.

Compatibility is a factor that players frequently consider in their personal choice between wired and wireless devices. In the past, wired headsets were considered superior to wireless options, but that is no longer the case. Wired headsets are generally more affordable and compatible with a wider range of controllers and PCs. On the other hand, wireless controllers are undeniably more convenient, although they often cater to specific systems or necessitate the use of an adapter.

Many gamers prefer to play on multiple devices such as their PC, Xbox, Playstation, and Switch, rather than just one. It is crucial for these players to find a headset that is compatible with all of their devices. This becomes even more important for gamers who play on both Xbox and Playstation, as the competition between these two consoles has not yet resulted in universal headset compatibility for PC and Switch. Typically, gamers are required to use two separate headsets for these two systems, with only a few exceptions.