Not everyone has space for a professional gaming setup. Whether you play on PC, Xbox, or PlayStation, choosing the right headset can significantly enhance your gaming experience by decluttering your space and having the mic follow you instead of the other way around. In this article, we’ll explore the best gaming headsets, detailing their features, benefits, and what sets them apart.
So, whether you’re a casual player or practically live in a digital world, we’ll find you a headset that suits your needs and enhances your immersion, ensuring you hear more and are heard clearly.
In a hurry?
Here are three headsets, from budget- to pro-level, that might pique your interest:
| JBL Quantum 100 | Incredibly budget-friendly headset with JBL QuantumSOUND Signature audio engineering. | Find out more |
| Rode NTH-100M | Custom-matched drivers, superb comfort with CoolTech gel, and a broadcast-grade microphone for immersive gaming | Find out more |
| Audeze Maxwell | Ultra-low latency, crystal-clear sound, and 80+ hours battery life. A go-to for an audiophile-quality gaming headset. | Find out more |
Why we’ve chosen these gaming headsets
While there are many exceptional headphones on the market known for their spatial audio capabilities, comfort, and responsiveness, our nine picks only include headsets that come with built-in microphones. We believe calling something a headset that requires the purchase of a separate mic, along with any necessary brackets and cables, goes against the spirit of what a “headset” should be.
So, that being said, what have we included on our list?
Primarily, we’ve considered a range of price points to cater to different budgets. Whether you’re looking for a cheap and cheerful, budget-friendly option or a high-end model with all the bells and whistles, our selection covers a variety of choices. Each headset has been evaluated for its value for money, ensuring you get the best performance without overspending.
Sound quality is another crucial factor. A good gaming headset delivers clear, immersive audio with a wide frequency range. Many of the choices on our list are also optimised for the latest surround sound technologies. This enhances the gaming experience by providing precise directional audio, helping you detect in-game sounds like footsteps and nearby opponents with greater speed and accuracy.
Finally, long gaming sessions call for a headset that remains comfortable hour after hour without pinching or rubbing and leaving your head sore. We’re spotlighting models with adjustable headbands, cushioned ear cups, and lightweight designs where possible to keep things comfy.
The best gaming headsets
1. JBL Quantum 100 Wired Over-ear Gaming Headset
Key features
- Over-ear, closed-back design with 40mm Dynamic drivers
- Detachable boom microphone
- 220g lightweight design
Pros
- A very affordable price-point, around £30
- Comfortable fit, with padded ear cushions
- Clear microphone quality
Cons
- Great value for a budget headset but without many special features
This headset screams great value for money. For gamers on a budget, the JBL Quantum 100 is all about practicality, offering an appealing mix of form, function, and affordability. This wired over-ear headset is lightweight with roomy, well-padded ear cups to accommodate a range of ear shapes.
The headset’s boom microphone is also detachable, adding versatility and ease of use, especially if you need to switch between online and solo gaming or even just casual listening.
While the earcups provide a comfortable enough fit, passive isolation may be a little lacking as it doesn’t entirely block out the sound of your surroundings – something to take into consideration if you plan on using them in a shared living space or room with a lot of foot traffic.
Again, this is a headset designed for the many and typically retails around the £20 to £30 mark. It’s a great entry-level option for those who are hesitant about spending a fortune on gaming accessories or those who are looking for a gift for budding gamers.
It’s available in three standard colour variants – black, blue, and white – and two additional console-specific models, the Quantum 100X and 100P, designed to complement Xbox and PlayStation respectively – though the differences appear to be limited to the colour scheme, as compatibility isn’t affected.
Essentially, this is a no-nonsense headset. Whether that’s a plus or a minus for you, don’t go in expecting wireless capabilities or app control. You connect via a 3.5mm jack and that’s it really. A nice and simple wired connection that covers a range of platforms including handheld, desktop, and console. If you’re looking for the bells and whistles, you’ll probably want to check out the headsets higher in the Quantum range.
We’ll get to those later though.
The Quantum 100 uses the JBL QuantumSOUND Signature, meaning they’re designed to be fun, lively, and loud. In this case, the bass could be considered a little overwhelming or boomy with some inconsistencies across the frequency response. This shouldn’t be an issue for casual gamers though, and on the whole delivers satisfactory performance and good stereo separation.
2. Behringer BH470U Headset with Detachable Microphone and USB Cable
Key features
- Over-ear, closed-back design with 40mm neodymium drivers
- Noise cancelling, detachable gooseneck microphone
- 8ft 3.5mm cable with USB plug-and-play extension
Pros
- Affordable price point, between £30 and £40
- Comfortable fit and lightweight design
- Good sound isolation
Cons
- While not specifically designed for gaming, it’s a cost-effective all-purpose headset
As an alternative to our previous pick, the Behringer BH470U represents another budget-friendly option for those looking to balance affordability with functionality.
Its lightweight design, coupled with a detachable microphone and USB connectivity, makes it a versatile choice for various uses besides gaming. From conference calls to content creation, and all for under £40, the BH470U could be a solid headset for streaming on Twitch or YouTube.
This is a great choice if you’re looking for a sort of do-it-all headset – something you can keep on your desk and use for business and pleasure. It boasts velour padding on both the ear cups and headband, ensuring that you can wear it for extended periods without discomfort.
Sound isolation is another strong point. The closed-back design effectively blocks out background noise, which is ideal for monitoring audio in noisy environments. This is especially beneficial if you’re recording or streaming content, as it helps keep the focus on your voice or the audio you’re working with.
The headset’s padding and over-ear design contribute significantly to this isolation, making it easier to concentrate on your tasks without external distractions.
Durability is quite impressive for a headset at this price point. Despite being primarily constructed from plastic, the build quality feels solid, with reinforcements in key areas. The ear cups and headband are robust enough to withstand regular use, although the non-replaceable cable could be a drawback if it gets damaged.
The inclusion of a USB cable makes the BH470U particularly convenient for use with modern devices that lack a 3.5mm audio jack. This adds to its versatility, allowing it to connect easily to computers and other USB-enabled devices without the need for additional adapters. The USB connection also helps in delivering a stable audio signal, which is crucial for maintaining sound quality during use.
Overall, the Behringer BH470U is an excellent budget-friendly headset that offers good comfort and isolation. While it may not provide the best sound clarity in the high-frequency range, its other features and durability make it a worthwhile option for those on a tight budget. If you need a reliable headset for general use, the BH470U is certainly worth considering, especially given its competitive price point.
3. beyerdynamic MMX 150 USB Gaming Headset
Key features
- Over-ear, closed-back design with 40mm Dynamic drivers
- Augmented Mode (an environmental transparency feature) for spatial awareness
- Weighs 304g with memory foam cushioning
Pros
- Superb microphone quality
- Comfortable design
- Durable build
Cons
- Augmented Mode only available with USB connection
The beyerdynamic MMX 150 USB Gaming Headset is the first one on our list priced over £100, and it offers a wealth of features for gamers seeking to stretch their budget for better audio quality and comfort. Equipped with high-resolution 40mm drivers, this closed-back headset delivers clear sound, enhancing your gaming experience with responsive performance and clear imaging.
The most obvious thing we need to touch on is a quick comparison between the MMX 150 and the MMX 100, the slightly cheaper model in the range. They’re practically identical in build quality and comfort, so what’s the difference?
Well, first and foremost, connectivity is expanded from an analogue 3.5mm jack connection in the MMX 100 to USB in the 150; the higher model features both a USB-C to USB-A cable and USB-C to 4-pole (3.5mm) mini-jack, expanding your connectivity potential.
Feature-wise, the MMX 150 also features Augmented Mode, which provides a spatial sound experience similar to open-back headphones. This mode uses external microphones to allow ambient sounds to enter, keeping you aware of your surroundings while gaming. It’s great if you need to stay alert to your environment without removing the headset, say if you’re expecting a delivery or listening out for your kids.
Comfort is a strong point for the MMX 150, thanks to its memory foam ear pads, padded headband, and moderately light weight of 304g. These features ensure a comfortable fit even during extended gaming sessions. The headset is constructed from a mix of plastic and metal, offering durability without feeling overly heavy on the head. The ear cups, while not swivel-capable, tilt to ensure a snug fit around your ears.
The MMX 150 also includes a high-quality META VOICE microphone, which successfully suppresses background noise. This microphone is detachable and flexible, allowing for precise positioning. However, it’s worth noting that the onboard controls, including volume adjustment and Augmented Mode, are only accessible when using the USB connection.
The beyerdynamic MMX 150 USB Gaming Headset offers an excellent balance of features, sound quality, and comfort. It’s a great choice for gamers seeking a high-quality headset that includes convenient features without overspending on unnecessary extras.
4. Audio-Technica ATH-PDG1a Premium Open-Back Gaming Headset
Key features
- 40mm drivers with CCAW voice coils
- Open-air honeycomb aluminium design
- Flexible gooseneck boom microphone
Pros
- Lightweight construction, weighing around 225g
- The open-back design achieves more natural sound quality
- Mic built into the cable, detachable if you don’t need it
Cons
- The open-back design naturally achieves limited isolation
As we move beyond the region of budget gaming headsets, we’re encountering options that feature more advanced build quality and design philosophies.
Enter the Audio-Technica ATH-PDG1a Premium Open-Back Gaming Headset, an excellent choice for those who value natural sound and comfort. This is thanks to its 40mm drivers with CCAW voice coils and open-air honeycomb design, which deliver lifelike, spacious sound and offer better ventilation to your ears over longer gaming sessions.
This headset comes with a flexible gooseneck boom microphone, meaning you can position the mic for the best sound quality without picking up environmental noise. The in-line volume and mute controller are also super handy, letting you tweak settings without pausing or exiting your game.
Plus, its sturdy yet lightweight build, along with a comfortable padded headband, means you can wear the ATH-PDG1a for a while without discomfort.
It includes three cables: a 1.2m mic cable, a 1.2m smartphone cable, and a 2.0m extension cable perfect for console gaming across the room. However, it lacks USB audio, which might be a drawback for some PC gamers who prefer this connectivity.
In terms of sound quality, the ATH-PDG1a performs exceptionally well. The headset offers a balanced sound profile with a boosted low end, a forward mid-range, and a wide soundstage. This makes it not only suitable for gaming but also for music listening in general. The open-back design allows air to pass through the ear cups, reducing pressure and creating a natural listening environment.
While this design philosophy can lead to greater sound leakage and poorer environmental isolation, it also achieves a wider soundstage, making in-game sounds appear as if they are coming from a broader, more immersive spatial context. And if you’re not planning on using these headphones in particularly noisy environments, the natural down sounds of open-back headphones are greatly outweighed by the positives.
Comfort is another area where the ATH-PDG1a excels. Weighing only 225 grams, it is one of the lighter headsets available, allowing for long gaming sessions without any strain. The materials used and the soft leather headband contribute to a stress-free gaming experience.
5. JBL Quantum 810 Wireless Over-Ear Gaming Headset
Key features
- Over-ear, closed-back design with large, hi-res 50mm drives
- Wireless headset with 43-hour battery life
- JBL QuantumSURROUND and DTS Headphone:X version 2.0 technology
Pros
- Features Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology for use in loud environments
- Dual wireless connections let you connect simultaneously through BT and USB dongle
- Comfortable design
Cons
- Surround sound modes are limited to PC gaming
We’re back with another choice from the JBL Quantum series and this time it’s the JBL Quantum 810 Wireless Over-Ear Gaming Headset.
This is the first wireless headset on our list and it also features Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) to boot, which is great if you’re gaming in a shared living space – no tripping hazards, no distractions. The 50mm dynamic drivers deliver high-resolution sound, making every detail feel more present.
While you do also have the option to connect via a 3.5mm cable, this wireless connectivity is the highlight of the Quantum 810, offering reliable, low latency Bluetooth 5.2 and 2.4GHz USB dongle options. This dual wireless capability allows you to connect to multiple devices simultaneously, meaning you can link to your phone via BT while receiving game audio via the USB dongle.
While optimised for PC, these three main avenues of connectivity ensure compatibility with pretty much any gaming platform you can think of, including PlayStation, Nintendo Switch (USB-compatible when docked), and Xbox (via 3.5mm jack). The Quantum 810 boasts impressive battery life, with up to 43 hours of playtime on a single charge and, if you do run low, the ability to continue playing while charging.
Although the materials used are largely plastic, the headset doesn’t feel plasticky and retains a sturdy build quality. The memory foam ear cushions and adjustable headband provide a snug fit that remains comfortable even during extended use. The headset’s design also includes intuitive controls, allowing you to adjust volume, flip the microphone up to mute, and balance game and chat audio easily.
So comparing the Quantum 810 to the slightly cheaper JBL Quantum 610, which should you go for? Both headsets offer JBL QuantumSURROUND and DTS technology for virtual multichannel surround audio for PC gaming and have a similar build, but the Quantum 610 doesn’t feature ANC or Bluetooth connectivity.
These features really play into the wireless feature of this headset, so if you can stretch your budget, we’d definitely recommend it.
However, the Quantum 610 still delivers great performance at a lower price point, making it a good option for those who don’t feel like they’d benefit from the extra features. With its futuristic, RGB-lit design, the Quantum 810 clearly showcases its gaming-focused functionality, optimised specifically for immersive gameplay.
6. Røde NTH-100M Professional Over-Ear Headset
Key features
- Over-ear, closed-backed design with custom-matched 40mm drivers
- Moderate weight but not heavy, at 350g
- Professional broadcast-grade microphone
Pros
- Great for gaming and content creation, with highly intelligible sound quality
- Alcantara ear cups with CoolTech gel for superb comfort
- Durable build and comes with a 2.4m cable, long enough to reach your console
Cons
- Although it’s detachable, microphone adjustability is majorly limited
Røde, an Australian audio company known for its high-quality microphones, has stepped into the gaming arena with the NTH-100M Professional Over-Ear Headset. While it might not be the first brand that comes to mind for gaming gear, this headset is a stellar all-round choice for content creators, streamers, and musicians alike.
The NTH-100M sports custom-matched 40mm drivers tuned for each earcup, ensuring clear and detailed sound whether you’re diving into a game or recording commentary. Its broadcast-grade microphone guarantees your voice comes through loud and clear, making it a solid choice for both streaming and in-game communication.
The headset’s impressive frequency response of 5Hz to 35kHz captures greater nuance, making it ideal for critical listening during video editing, mastering, and streaming.
Sound-wise, the NTH-100M shines with a balanced profile. Expect powerful yet controlled bass, warm mids, and crisp highs. The detachable microphone delivers natural voice reproduction with minimal background noise, though its fixed position might be a slight inconvenience for some users.
But what really sets this headset apart for gaming? Comfort and durability. The Alcantara ear cups, filled with CoolTech gel, keep your ears cool and comfortable during long gaming sessions. The memory foam cushions and adjustable headband with the FitLok system ensure a snug fit that stays in place. Plus, the stainless steel headband and high-quality plastic construction mean this headset is built to last.
The headset includes a generous 2.4m TRRS cable, which ensures you have plenty of length to move around your setup without feeling restricted, though at the detriment of compatibility with no USB connection. This long cable, combined with a locking mechanism, prevents accidental disconnections, providing a reliable connection even during intense gaming sessions or critical recording moments.
Whether you’re gaming, producing music, or creating content, the NTH-100M’s closed-back design provides good sound isolation, essential for noisy environments. Compared to other headsets in its price range, it offers competitive features and unique comfort elements, making it a worthwhile investment for those looking to stretch their budget for a headset that can be used for more than just gaming.
7. Austrian Audio PG16 Professional Gaming Headset
Key features
- Over-ear, closed-back design with 44mm Hi-X driver technology
- Ergonomic memory foam ear pads
- Spatial Sound Card 7.1 surround software
Pros
- Exceptional high-fidelity clarity
- Lightweight and foldable 265g design
- High-quality microphone
Cons
- Whilst 3.5mm is widely compatible, feels like it has limited extra connection options at this price point
Looking for a gaming headset that offers both exceptional sound and comfort? Utilising their incredibly responsive Hi-X driver technology, the Austrian Audio PG16 Professional Gaming Headset has a frequency range from 12Hz to 24kHz, offering a wider spectrum than most gaming headsets, ensuring you catch every audio nuance.
Designed with extended gaming sessions in mind, the PG16 features memory foam ear pads that adapt to the shape of your ears for maximum comfort. Weighing just 265g, the headset is lightweight enough to wear for hours without causing fatigue. Its foldable design adds to its portability, making it easy to store and carry.
The included Spatial Sound Card 7.1 surround software enhances spatial awareness, allowing you to pinpoint the location of sounds like footsteps and gunfire. This feature can be particularly useful in competitive gaming, though it’s worth noting that the software can be demanding on your CPU, especially on less powerful systems.
The PG16’s microphone ensures clear voice communication with your teammates. It features a flexible gooseneck design and a convenient tilt-to-mute function. Although the microphone is not detachable, it can be easily adjusted to the optimal position and quick muting if you need to talk to someone in your home without sharing with your online chat.
Connectivity is fairly standard, featuring a 3.5mm jack that allows connection to any device with a headphone port. While it may lack the advanced options found in some of the other headsets on this list, it excels in providing consistent audio performance. If you don’t need all the extra features and prefer a reliable, straightforward connection, this headset offers great sound quality and dependable performance.
Priced at around £160, the PG16 is slightly more expensive than some of the other headsets we’ve mentioned so far. However, its high-quality sound is where this headset shines, with a robust build that lives up to that price point.
For gamers seeking professional-grade audio performance or full surround sound support without having to invest in a full speaker system, the PG16 is an ideal choice for both casual and competitive play.
8. JBL Quantum ONE Wired Over-Ear Gaming Headset
Key features
- Over-ear, closed-back design with 50mm Dynamic drivers
- QuantumSPHERE 360 sound head-tracking technology
- Discord-certified Game-Chat balance dial allows on-the-fly adjustments
Pros
- Active Noise Cancelling (ANC)
- Quantum SoundENGINE for performance tweaking
- Comfortable fit and customisable RGB lighting
Cons
- Despite being top-of-the-range, the ONE drops wireless connectivity for audiophile performance
You may be starting to think the JBL Ouantum series is a little full, but the JBL Quantum ONE Wired Over-Ear Gaming Headset fills a very specific niche in the lineup. This isn’t just another pair of gaming headphones; it’s a sophisticated piece of tech designed to elevate your gaming experience with a blend of innovative features and stellar audio performance.
So let’s start with the differences. The most distinctive feature of this model is the QuantumENGINE software, which lets you access extensive customisation options. This powerful tool allows you to fine-tune your audio settings for a tailored gaming experience.
With QuantumENGINE, it’s easy to adjust the headset’s RGB lighting, create and save custom audio profiles, and calibrate the head-tracking technology for precise spatial awareness. The software’s intuitive interface makes these adjustments straightforward, enhancing both aesthetics and performance to match your gaming style.
Building on this, the QuantumSPHERE 360 sound technology further elevates the experience. By using a calibration mic, it personalises surround sound to your ears, creating an immersive audio environment where every sound is precisely positioned, making you feel like you’re truly inside the game world.
Despite dropping the wireless technology for a more stable wired connection, the JBL Quantum ONE focuses on delivering superior audio quality and reliability. The wired connection ensures no latency, making it ideal for competitive gaming where every millisecond counts. Although optimised for PC, you can use this headset with a range of consoles as it comes packed with a 3.5mm jack cable.
Compared to the Quantum 910, the Quantum ONE offers enhanced sound fidelity and head-tracking technology, which elevates the immersive experience, albeit sacrificing the freedom of wireless mobility.
Despite being wired, the Quantum ONE’s features and performance justify its spot in the premium segment. It’s ideal for gamers who prioritise sound fidelity and immersive experiences over the convenience of wireless connectivity.
9. Audeze Maxwell Planar Magnetic Gaming Headset
Key features
- Over-ear, closed-back design with Planar Magnetic transducers
- AI noise cancellation
- More than 80-hour battery life
Pros
- True-audiophile audio quality
- Phenomenally long battery life
- Comfortable padding and earcups
Cons
- Heavy and bulky to accommodate the advanced technology like the battery
The Audeze Maxwell Planar Magnetic Gaming Headset represents the high-end option on our list, offering a blend of cutting-edge technology and exceptional performance.
Designed with audiophiles and serious gamers in mind, the Maxwell is equipped with planar magnetic drivers, known for their detailed sound reproduction. These drivers provide a clear and immersive audio experience, making it ideal for both gaming and music.
Arguably, the Maxwell’s main feature is its phenomenal battery life. It blows its competitors away with up to 80 hours of playback. This means you can game or listen to music for days without needing a recharge. And if you’re in a rush, a quick 20-minute charge gives you another full day of use – perfect for those last-minute gaming marathons. This is a major advantage the Maxwell has over any other headset on our list.
The headset features deep, plush ear cups that provide excellent noise isolation and a comfortable fit, even during extended use. However, they need to be, given the headset’s substantial 490g weight, which is necessary to host its advanced technology and large battery.
This heft might be a drawback for some users, but the undeniable boon to audiophile-level sound quality makes this a worthwhile trade-off for those seeking the ultimate listening experience.
The Maxwell excels in connectivity options, supporting Bluetooth 5.3 LE, a USB-C RF dongle for low-latency wireless connectivity, and a standard 3.5mm wired connection. This versatility ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices. However, be aware that the Maxwell does not offer the ability to manually switch between 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth, which might be a minor inconvenience.
A final significant feature is the AI-driven noise cancellation, which effectively filters out background noise to ensure clear communication during online gaming sessions. The inclusion of a detachable boom mic, developed by Shure, further enhances the headset’s functionality.
As the final pick on our list, the Audeze Maxwell Planar Magnetic Gaming Headset is a top-tier choice for those seeking an unparalleled audio experience. Its combination of exceptional sound quality, impressive battery life, and versatile connectivity options makes it a standout option in the realm of gaming headsets.
Things to consider when choosing the best gaming headsets
Sound quality
A headset with superior sound quality ensures you can hear in greater detail, providing a higher level of immersion in your audio environment. Look for and, if possible, demo headsets that offer clear, high-fidelity sound with a wide frequency range.
Additionally, headsets equipped with virtual surround sound technology can elevate your gaming experience by creating a three-dimensional audio environment. This technology allows you to perceive the direction and distance of sounds, which is essential for competitive gaming.
Modern games integrate spatial audio into their core mechanics; for instance, detecting the exact location of enemy footsteps can give you a strategic advantage.
Moreover, a headset with excellent sound quality can enhance other multimedia experiences, such as watching movies or listening to music, making it a versatile addition to your setup, especially if you don’t currently have the budget for more than one pair of headphones.
Comfort
Comfort and fit are paramount, especially for long gaming sessions.
If your headset pinches your ears, presses on your head, or is too loose, it can distract you, give your opponents an edge, and leave you feeling sore and reluctant to log back in. Finding a headset that balances technology, weight, and comfort can be challenging.
When searching for headsets, prioritise ergonomic designs with adjustable headbands and cushioned ear cups to alleviate strain. Lightweight construction is preferred as heavy headsets can lead to fatigue and discomfort during extended use. A standard weight range for a headset is around 300g to 370g, though individual perception of weight varies.
Lighter headsets can sometimes mean cheaper materials, which may offer a limited lifespan with daily use. However, if you desire wireless playback or audiophile-level technology, a heavier model may be unavoidable. Well-padded ear cups that conform to the shape of your ears provide better comfort and noise isolation to counter this, enhancing your immersive experience.
Wired or wireless
Wired headsets typically offer lower latency and uninterrupted connectivity, ensuring minimal audio delay and reduced interference compared to wireless alternatives. This is crucial for competitive gaming where real-time audio feedback can make the difference between victory and defeat.
Additionally, wired headsets don’t require batteries, meaning you’ll have one less gadget to charge and can enjoy prolonged gaming sessions without interruption.
On the other hand, wireless headsets provide the freedom to move around without being tethered to your gaming device. This is particularly beneficial for the burgeoning world of VR gaming, where added cables can detract from immersion. Reducing the number of cables in your system can enhance your comfort and convenience, especially if you need to step away from your setup without pausing the action.
Modern wireless headsets come in two forms: Bluetooth or wireless USB dongles. Historically, wired technology has been preferred, but as technology advances, latency and quality are improving with each generation.
Microphone quality
Headphones such as the Audio Technica ATH-M50x, Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X, and Sennheiser HD 660S2 are celebrated for their outstanding sound quality and are favoured by professional gamers for their high performance. However, they don’t come with microphones and it’s important to note that incorporating an external microphone can increase your overall setup budget.
For multiplayer gamers, a built-in, high-quality microphone is incredibly convenient, saving both time and money.
When selecting a gaming headset, prioritise those with noise-cancelling microphones. These microphones reduce background noise, ensuring clear communication, which is crucial in noisy environments. A unidirectional microphone is often preferred for gaming as it focuses on your voice, minimising ambient noise.
Additionally, look for headsets with mute functions, either through a dedicated button or by flipping the mic up, offering easy control over your audio input.
If you opt for high-quality headphones without built-in microphones, remember that an external mic can match or even surpass built-in headset mics. However, they may restrict your movement within their surrounding area.
Connectivity
For a stress-free gaming experience, ensure your headset is compatible with your gaming platform. Most headsets work with PCs, consoles like PlayStation and Xbox, and mobile devices, but you should verify compatibility before purchase.
While most devices support a 3.5mm jack connection as standard, it’s also important to consider whether your headset uses a 3-pole or 4-pole connector. A 3-pole jack supports stereo audio without a microphone, whereas a 4-pole jack supports both stereo audio and a microphone.
To identify the type, count the rings on the plug: three rings indicate a 4-pole jack, and two rings indicate a 3-pole jack. Ensuring you have the correct type prevents connectivity issues and ensures both audio and mic functions work properly.
Additionally, check if the headset supports any proprietary technologies that might enhance your gaming experience, such as platform-specific surround sound formats. Manufacturers usually note console compatibilities in their user manuals.
Build quality
Investing in a durable headset is essential for longevity and reliability. To ensure your headset can withstand daily wear and tear, look for models made from high-quality materials such as metal or reinforced plastic. A sturdy build minimises the risk of your headset breaking through regular use.
Pay particular attention to the quality of the headband and ear cup hinges as these are common points of failure. It’s also a good idea to consider headsets with reinforced cables that are less prone to tangling and breaking. Have a read of some user reviews or seek advice in gaming forums – you’ll find some valuable insights into a headset’s durability and real-life performance over time.
Budget
Setting a budget for your gaming headset is important. While high-end headsets offer advanced features and superior sound quality, there are also excellent budget-friendly options available. Determine which features are most important to you and prioritise them. For example, will you really benefit from surround sound, noise cancellation, RGB lighting, and wireless capabilities?
If sound quality and comfort are your top priorities, focus on finding the best options within your budget range instead of overspending on functions you’ll rarely use.
Reading reviews and comparing different models can help you find a headset that offers good value for money. Sometimes, mid-range headsets provide a great balance between price and performance, offering many of the features found in higher-end models at a more affordable price.
Remember, spending more doesn’t always guarantee a better experience. Find a headset that meets your needs to avoid buyer’s remorse and ensure you get the best value for your money.
FAQs
Which headset is best for gaming?
The best headset for gaming on a budget is the JBL Quantum 100, whilst the Audeze Maxwell Planar Magnetic Gaming Headset is the best high-end option. You should look at the headset’s sound quality, comfort, and microphone when choosing the right one for you. Many great budget options are available, and if you’re interested in something more high-end, surround sound, noise cancelling, and wireless options can enhance your gaming immersion for long-term use.
What headsets do pro gamers use?
Pro gamers typically use headsets with spatial, studio-level audio and a comfortable fit. These headsets offer clear sound for content creation, spatial imaging, and effective communication, all of which are essential for competitive gaming as well as growing your audience.
Are gaming headsets actually better for gaming?
Gaming headsets are better for gaming due to their specialised design for PCs and consoles. Manufacturers prioritise seamless compatibility with the most popular platforms and include features tailored to gamers’ needs, like noise-cancelling mics and directional audio support.
Final thoughts
We hope our list of the best gaming headsets has included some options for you that meet your needs and price range. From the budget-friendly JBL Quantum 100 and Behringer BH470U to the high-end Audeze Maxwell, each headset offers great value for money with unique features to enhance your gaming experience at your budget level.
Want to learn more about the types of noise cancellation or the distinction between open and closed-back headphones? Explore these articles for more info! Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and gaming requirements, so take your time to find the perfect match for your setup.
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