When casual gamers invest in their gaming setup, they often focus primarily on hardware and games, overlooking peripherals like monitors, keyboards, and headsets.
While this approach might seem reasonable, it’s not always the best strategy. Inferior peripherals can disrupt your gaming experience as much as outdated hardware. A poor-quality keyboard, an uncomfortable mouse, or subpar headphones can detract from gameplay just as much as a slow video card. Moreover, in competitive online games such as Fortnite, CS, or Call of Duty, high-quality peripherals, particularly headsets, are crucial to maintaining a competitive edge.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose the best gaming headset, including different types of connections, the significance of sound virtualization, selecting the right microphone, and key differences between gaming and regular headphones.
What Makes Gaming Headphones Different from Regular Ones?
Some gamers believe that gaming headsets are merely a marketing gimmick and that any pair of headphones will suffice for gaming. While there is some truth to this, gaming headsets do offer several specific benefits that make them well-suited for gaming. For instance, their sound profiles are often tuned to emphasize critical in-game audio cues like footsteps and gunfire, giving players an edge in competitive games.
Additionally, gaming headsets are ergonomically designed to provide comfort during extended play sessions. Many models come with specialized software for sound customization and surround sound virtualization, enhancing in-game immersion. Some higher-end models even feature built-in sound cards with support for Dolby or DTS audio formats, offering a premium audio experience.
Most gaming headsets also include built-in microphones optimized for voice communication in online games, often integrated with platforms like Discord. As a result, they are technically headsets rather than simple headphones.
Full-Size Gaming Headsets
The most common type of gaming headset is the full-size model. These headsets fully enclose your ears, providing passive noise isolation and a snug fit. Full-size models are known for their deep bass and immersive soundstage, making them ideal for gaming. The closed-back design of these headsets also minimizes external noise, allowing you to focus entirely on the game.
However, full-size headsets may cause discomfort during long gaming sessions due to their tight fit, which can put pressure on your ears and head. In hot environments, they may also lead to excessive sweating. Despite these minor inconveniences, full-size headsets remain the go-to choice for most serious gamers.
On-Ear Gaming Headphones
On-ear headphones differ from full-size models in that they rest on the outer part of your ear rather than enclosing it completely. This makes them more comfortable for extended use and reduces sweating during hot weather. However, the downside is that they lack the passive noise isolation provided by full-size headsets. External noise can leak in, and the sound may not feel as immersive due to the distance between the drivers and your ears.
In-Ear and Earbud Headphones
In-ear headphones and earbuds are generally less popular among gamers but have gained traction with the rise of gaming smartphones and TWS (True Wireless Stereo) earbuds. While these options offer portability and are often more affordable, they fall short in delivering the same sound quality as full-size or on-ear gaming headsets.
Wireless in-ear models, in particular, can suffer from input lag, where the audio lags behind the on-screen action, making them less suitable for fast-paced games like shooters. Some in-ear models include features designed to reduce lag, but their performance may vary.
Wired vs. Wireless Connections
Choosing between wired and wireless headsets is one of the most critical decisions when selecting a gaming headset. Each connection type has its pros and cons.
Wired Headsets
Wired headsets are the most reliable option for competitive gamers, offering superior sound quality and no risk of input lag or interference. Most wired headsets connect through a standard 3.5mm jack, making them compatible with a wide range of devices, including PCs, consoles, and mobile devices. Some models offer dual jacks—one for audio and one for voice communication.
Wired headsets are also more durable, especially those with reinforced or detachable cables, which help extend the lifespan of the device. For serious gamers, wired headsets are often the preferred choice due to their reliability and performance.
USB Headsets
Some gaming headsets use a USB connection, often including a built-in Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) or sound card. These models offer enhanced audio processing, providing superior sound virtualization and customization options. However, USB headsets can have compatibility issues with certain consoles, as different platforms use varying drivers and protocols. Always check whether a USB headset is compatible with your preferred gaming platform before making a purchase.
Wireless Headsets
Wireless headsets are popular for their convenience, offering a clutter-free experience without cables. Most wireless gaming headsets use Bluetooth or radio frequencies (RF) to connect to devices. Bluetooth headsets are more common but can suffer from latency and interference, which can negatively affect your gameplay experience.
RF headsets tend to provide more stable connectivity with less lag, making them better suited for gaming. However, wireless headsets need regular recharging, and connections can sometimes drop in the middle of a game. Additionally, wireless headsets are not always compatible with every gaming platform, so compatibility checks are crucial.
Build Quality and Comfort
Comfort and build quality are paramount when selecting a gaming headset, especially for those long gaming sessions that can last hours. A well-built headset with a comfortable fit will ensure you can focus on the game without feeling fatigued.
Headband Design
A good headband ensures the headset fits securely without putting too much pressure on your head. High-quality gaming headsets often feature reinforced or metal headbands for added durability, which are more robust than plastic frames. Modern headbands typically come with padding, making them more comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Ear Pad Material
The ear pads of a headset play a significant role in comfort and sound isolation. Fabric ear pads are breathable and ideal for long sessions, while leather or faux leather ear pads offer superior noise isolation but can become warm after extended use. When choosing a headset, pick ear pads that feel comfortable and fit your personal preference.
Sound Quality: What Really Matters
While many gamers focus on technical specifications like frequency range and sensitivity, these numbers often don't reveal the headset's true sound quality. Gaming headsets typically emphasize bass and mid-range frequencies to highlight in-game sounds such as gunfire, footsteps, and explosions, which can be vital for competitive gaming.
For audiophiles or those who prefer a more neutral sound, regular over-ear headphones paired with a separate microphone might be a better option, offering a more balanced audio profile.
Virtual Surround Sound
Many gaming headsets offer virtual surround sound to create an immersive audio experience. Surround sound helps players pinpoint enemy positions or other in-game audio cues more accurately, giving them a tactical advantage. Most modern gaming headsets simulate 5.1, 7.1, or even 9.1 surround sound using two main drivers and software processing.
While virtual surround sound can dramatically improve in-game immersion, it’s essential to understand that the quality varies between budget and high-end models. Budget models often rely on software for surround sound, while premium headsets may include dedicated DACs for better sound virtualization.
The Importance of a Microphone
A good microphone is essential for any gaming headset, particularly for multiplayer games where communication is critical. Most gaming headsets come with built-in microphones, often equipped with noise-canceling features to minimize background noise and ensure clear communication.
Many gaming microphones are retractable or detachable, adding flexibility for users who don’t always need voice chat. The microphone should offer clear voice transmission without distorting or amplifying background noise, ensuring your team can hear you clearly.
Choosing the right gaming headset involves considering factors like sound quality, comfort, connection type, and build quality. Full-size gaming headsets remain the top choice for most serious gamers due to their immersive sound and comfort. Whether you opt for wired, USB, or wireless headsets depends on your personal preferences and gaming platform. However, a well-made headset with clear audio and a good microphone will significantly enhance your gaming experience, giving you both an edge in competitive gameplay and a more enjoyable time overall.
