It doesn’t matter whether you’re a hardcore, competitive gamer or the casual and chill type. You can’t deny that a good pair of gaming headphones can sometimes make the difference between winning or losing a game. So if you’re someone who’s been in the market, come check out our guide on how to buy gaming headphones this 2021.
Understandably, any device, gadget, or peripheral that has the word “gaming” attached to it usually gets a few brows raised from certain people. Some think that it’s just a marketing ploy to get gamers to shell out extra cash because they think these gaming peripherals will help them game better.
Admittedly, some of these products get gimmicky. But the majority of them were actually built and produced with gamers in mind. In turn, these peripherals allow gamers to have a better and more immersive gaming experience.
Some accessories like gaming headphones in this case have certain features that let gamers pick up particular audio cues that traditional headphones won’t let us hear. Things like this matter especially if you’re very serious with your gaming.
So to clear any misunderstandings, let me explain and answer some of the most common questions asked regarding gaming headphones. Read on to find out more.
I know by now that almost everyone on this planet knows what gaming headphones are. However, if some of you are still confused with the difference between gaming headphones and traditional ones, let me clarify things for you.
Obviously, a pair of gaming headphones is a type of headphones that companies make that are specifically and specially made for gaming. It is equipped with certain features that can elevate and upgrade a gamer’s overall gaming experience.
Below are a few things I have listed that make gaming headsets different from your traditional headphones:
Built-in microphone. The mics on gaming headphones are usually a lot more fine-tuned. Which helps in better communication between you and your teammates. These mics can be detachable as well.
Better surround sound experience. With gaming headphones, it’s very important that you get that additional awareness or audio cues when it comes to your surroundings.
Comfortable build quality. When you’re playing a game, you usually take plenty of hours doing it. Sometimes, we don’t even notice the time. That’s why manufacturers make it a point to make sure that their gaming headphones will provide maximum comfort to their users.
Gamer aesthetics. When it comes to aesthetics, gaming headphones are usually a lot more stylish or edgy in terms of design. Though personally, they can be hit or miss.
Who needs gaming headphones?
While the short answer is gamers, different types of people can still benefit from the unique features some gaming headphones have. For example, if you’re job requires you to edit videos or syncing audios on videos, you might want to consider getting yourself a pair of gaming headphones as they tend to pick up even the smallest of noises.
Moreover, more and more companies are slowly making gaming headphones that will make audiophiles turn their heads. So if you’re a gamer who is also an audiophile, you might want to start looking for these kinds of headphones.
For more competitive gamers, especially the ones who get into intensive e-sport competitions, using a pair of gaming headphones can be crucial to one’s way to victory.
However, that’s not to say casual gamers won’t be able to enjoy the benefits of good gaming headphones. Ultimately, this will make their gaming sessions a lot more enjoyable and immersive. It will feel as if you’re part of the game itself and everything in the game is actually happening around you.
In addition to those things, it might not seem like it, but using the right headphones for gaming will also help you communicate better with your teammates if you’re playing co-op games.
The right pair of headphones will let you hear even the quietest of footsteps from afar so you can anticipate your enemy’s next movements. A good pair of gaming headphones can also pinpoint certain audio cues to let you know what is happening around you.
When you have all these qualities and features in your gaming headphones, winning a game can be a lot easier for you and your team.
Now that we have covered what a gaming headphone is essentially and who is the target market for it, here are some quick shopping tips to keep in mind!
Plan Your Budget
Because the gaming industry is filled up to the brim with different kinds of gaming headsets from an endless variety of brands and manufacturers, you will soon realize that the price for gaming headsets can range from something around $5o to a whopping $500. It’s overwhelming, to say the least.
With that in mind, you can easily get lost in a sea of gaming headsets. But having a set budget, you will be able to filter out gaming headsets that are way out of your budget and stick to a price range you’re comfortable in.
Going Wireless or Stick With Your Cords?
Before you head on out to a physical store or open up Amazon, try deciding first whether you want a wireless pair of gaming headphones or if you want to stick with the traditional corded ones. Just like with your budget, knowing which one you’ll get will immensely narrow down your options.
If you’re still unsure on which one to get, here are a few advantages and disadvantages to wireless and wired gaming headphones.
You’re now ready to buy your gaming headphones! But before you make any final purchases, here are the things you should be considering to make sure that you get the one that’s best for you.
Obviously, the reason you’re getting a pair of gaming headphones for yourself is that you want to experience high-quality in-game audio. It’s also another way for you to connect deeper with your game through a more immersive experience.
Sometimes for some people, terrible sound quality can ruin our gaming mood. Just imagine hearing static blasting through your ears. It’s not a pleasant sound to hear.
Thankfully, a lot of gaming companies actually provide very good audio quality with their gaming headsets now. Making sure they’re as crisp, clear, and realistic sounding as possible. Some even provide surround sound wherein you will be able to hear your in-game audio from every direction possible!
Surround Sound or Stereo?
For gamers, this question should be a no-brainer. Obviously, you need to always go for surround sound when it comes to buying headphones for gaming.
Surround sound will let you hear noises coming from every direction which can be crucial if you’re playing games like Fortnite or Valorant wherein you need to pay attention to your enemy’s footsteps or movements. It would be a shame if you lose because you weren’t able to pick up those certain sounds.
However, stereo gaming headphones aren’t too bad either. If your game isn’t that big on sound effects, you can still opt for this type of gaming headphones.
Battery Life
This certain aspect usually only applies to wireless gaming headsets. So if you’re opting for the corded gaming headsets, you can scroll past this. But if you’re planning to get a wireless one, make sure that the gaming headset you’re choosing has adequate battery life.
Some brands offer wireless headphones that can last up to 24 hours on a single charge which I find pretty impressive. Though, it’s up to you how many hours you game and how many hours you want your gaming headphones to last.
Conclusion
Overall, gaming headsets are a pretty vital piece in your gaming setup. Whether it be the surround sound features, the comfort it provides even after long hours of playing, or just simply the aesthetics it has, I think it’s a worthy investment and something you should consider if you aren’t already.
Anyway, we have finally reached the conclusion of our guide on how to buy gaming headphones this 2021. I hope this article was able to help you out in making an informed purchasing decision.
Already bought your own gaming headsets? Was my article on how to buy gaming headphones able to help you out when it came to choosing your gaming headset? Let me know in the comments section below if you have any suggestions or questions. I would love to hear your thoughts!
Wireless gaming headsets have had quite a reputation in the gaming community. Multiple problems have occurred regarding latency issues, delays, and such. That’s why the majority of gamers nowadays would still pretty much prefer corded headsets. But will our Razer BlackShark V2 Pro review change your mind about going wire-free?
Not too long ago, Razer released the BlackShark V2. And it’s safe to say, it became an immediate success. I’ll even go as far as saying that this is probably one of the best gaming headsets to come out as of recent for under a hundred dollars.
However, Razer had more plans for this model and not long after, they released a wireless variant of the BlackShark V2.
Enter the BlackShark V2 Pro Wireless.
Essentially, you are going to find the same features you came to know and love about the BlackShark V2. Except now the latest reiteration has gone completely cord-free.
With more freedom in terms of mobility and no more pesky cables getting in your way and cluttering your space during your gaming sessions, Razer felt that a steep price increase justifies the costs of going wireless.
This ultimately begs the question, is the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Wireless worth the upgrade?
When it comes to the gaming community, Razer is one of the biggest gaming brands that needs no introduction at all. Ever since 2005, they have been one of the leading companies and most recognized brands not only in the esports community but in the entire world.
With gamers in mind, they were able to build one of the largest gamer-focused ecosystems built on hardware, software, as well as services. This also includes award-winning and high-performing gaming peripherals, accessories, and laptops.
With such an impressive repertoire, does the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro live up to its hype and potential?
The simple and short answer to that question is yes.
Design, build quality, performance, and more.
Built upon the success of its predecessor, the BlackShark V2, The BlackShark V2 Pro is eerily identical. Aside from being wire-free, the differences between the two are pretty subtle.
The build quality is still very much the same, having a body and frame mainly made of plastic, with wireframe hinges, and a thickly cushioned headband for your maximum comfort. The overall quality is really sturdy and doesn’t feel or look cheap at all.
When it comes to design, while I don’t mind using an accessory that screams “I’m a gamer”, I do appreciate the restrained and subtle aesthetic Razer went for with the BlackShark V2 Pro. You will find no flashy RGB logos here that Razer is quite known for or oddly shaped design flourishes.
Instead, you get a really sophisticated and well-designed pair of gaming headphones. The logo is a minimalistic glossy black against the overall matte finish of the whole headphones.
As for comfortability, you won’t need to worry about any discomfort even after several hours of game time. The memory foam earpads wrapped in leatherette under a mesh fabric ensure that you are fully comfortable without any sort of buildup after long periods.
And just like its predecessor, the BlackShark V2 Pro works just as amazing once you put it into action. Equipped with a battery life of 24 hours, the in-game audio quality in this pair of gaming headphones is surreal and you’re sure to enjoy it for hours on end.
The THX Spatial Audio option works well when playing on PC and the virtual surround sound truly gives you a competitive edge when playing games like Fortnite, Valorant, and other first-person shooter games.
While the sound quality on the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is by no means near audiophile levels, it is still impressive enough to satisfy most gamers and casual listeners alike who aren’t too particular with in-game audio quality.
Especially having THX Spatial Audio, the immersive experience when you’re gaming just gets even better. You will also notice that there is an added emphasis on your game’s sound effects such as gunshots, explosions, and other similar sounds.
But don’t take it the wrong way, the boosted noises you are getting won’t drown out other more important sounds from the game. So if you need to keep your ear on enemy footsteps or movements, you will still be able to hear them, you just need to be a little more attentive than usual.
Amazing Battery Life
One of my most favorite things about the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is its battery life. This particular pair of gaming headphones can actually last you up to 24 hours of usage on a single charge. That means you can practically play all day long without having to worry about taking breaks in between to plug in your headphone to charge.
I get some of you might say that no one really plays games for a full 24 hours, I beg to differ. Sometimes, you don’t even realize it. With people stuck in their homes due to quarantine and the ongoing pandemic, more and more people are getting into gaming. Hence, the sudden boom of demand for gaming consoles and PCs.
Even if you’re not going to be using the headphones for a whole day, it’s still good to know that you can use this device for the next day and it will most likely serve you for about half of the day without worrying or needing to charge it.
Great Microphone Quality
You see, the detachable mics on gaming headphones like this always seem to be hits or misses. More often than not, they’re misses. So I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro’s built-in microphone worked so well.
Your voice with this pair of gaming headphones doesn’t get too distorted and actually sounds a lot fuller. Aside from that, it also did well in filtering out external noises while you’re speaking into the mic. If you have a deeper voice, you will find that this works excellently in your favor.
Overall, the microphone on the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is a huge improvement from its predecessors.
Our Least Favorite Thing/s
The Steep Price Increase
As I have already previously mentioned, the difference between the BlackShark V2 and the BlackShark V2 Pro is very subtle and few in between. In the naked eye, they look almost exactly the same product. The only main difference is that the latter doesn’t need to be wired to work.
However, Razer felt that cutting off the cord on the BlackShark V2 Pro warrants a huge increase in its price point. Admittedly, the BlackShark V2 Pro is still a pretty affordable gaming headset by industry standards. But comparing it to its predecessor, it’s a huge leap in price points with so few upgrades.
In A Nutshell
Now that we have broken down the things we loved and disliked about the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro, here is a narrowed-down list of the good and the bad with this particular pair of gaming headphones.
Pros
Impressive surround sound quality.
Comfortable to wear throughout the day.
Sleek, all black design.
Has decent noise-cancelling features.
Inclusion of Razer’s THX Spatial audio app for fine audio customization.
Excellent value for its price.
Great battery life.
Budget-friendly and still pretty affordable despite the price increase.
Cons
Could have better battery life indicator.
A huge price increase from its predecessor.
The Final Verdict
Overall, if you’re in the market for a wireless gaming headset, this is one of the best pairs of gaming headsets you can get your hands on right now. It’s ultra-comfortable, has great battery life that can last you throughout the day, and has an amazing in-game audio quality that will make you feel like you’re part of the game itself.
Do you already own the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro? How was the experience for you? Let me know if you have any insights about this product in the comments section below. I would love to hear your thoughts!
SteelSeries has been releasing some of the best gaming headsets out there in the market for some years now. Their Arctis Pro Series’s success is just a testament to how good their products are. So today, we will be taking an in-depth look at one of their products in our own SteelSeries Arctis Pro review.
Despite not being a recent release, the SteelSeries Arctis Pro still continues to top a lot of review lists and articles quite consistently. And how could it not? It’s packed with impressive and unique features that are quite hard to find elsewhere.
Not to mention, it’s also the first gaming headset that is certified for high-res audio. Safe to say, this is a gaming headset that will satisfy a lot of gamers, casual listeners, and audiophiles alike.
But enough of that, let’s dive right into our SteelSeries Arctis Pro review and see how well this holds up.
When it comes to headsets for gaming, brands like Razer, Corsair, Logitech are some of the manufacturers that can easily come into mind. But if you truly want the best of the best in terms of audio quality, SteelSeries is actually one of the industry-leading brands you should think of considering.
Especially if you’re into competitive gaming or thinking of going into esports.
If you’re unfamiliar with the brand, SteelSeries is actually the first and original company to sponsor an esports brand as well as pro players and teams. Since 2001, they have been the go-to brand for esports competitions, creating products that focus and cater to pro gaming and pro players’ needs.
That being said, you can be assured that SteelSeries only provides the highest quality with every product release. After all, they always make sure that their products are good enough for esports competitions. And the SteelSeries Arctis Pro is just one of their many successful lineups.
Known for providing unparalleled audio quality that will make audiophiles nod their heads in approval, the SteelSeries Arctis Pro will surely not disappoint you whether you’re using this pair of headphones for your games or just for casually listening to any kind of audio content.
Additionally, using this particular pair of headphones really just brings your whole gaming session to a whole new level. The experience becomes a whole lot more immersive with the headphones offering crisp and clear in-game audio.
Thanks to the Arctis Pro’s usage of the DTS Headphone:X 2.0 technology, the overall 3D audio environment sounds a lot more realistic and precise against your ears.
All in all, whether you’re gaming competitively or just doing it for your own leisure, you will absolutely enjoy the quality sound the SteelSeries Arctis Pro is providing.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 1.65 x 7.76 inches
Manufacturer / Brand: SteelSeries
Type: Over Ear
Item Weight: 1.15 pounds
Wireless: No.
Connectivity: USB, Optical, 3.5mm
Mic: Yes.
Driver/s: 40mm neodymium
Frequency Response: 10–40,000 Hz
Noise Cancelling: No
Compatibilities: PC & PS4
Color: Black
RGB Lighting Effects: Yes
Special Features: 40mm drivers, retractable boom microphone, DTS Headphone: X v2.0, RGB lighting effects, included DAC.
Check out SteelSeries’ instructional video on unboxing and setting up their Arctis Pro gaming headphones to your PC below.
What We Love About The SteelSeries Arctis Pro
Amazing Audio Quality
One of the main things we need to be critical about when reviewing gaming headsets is how good their sound qualities perform. And I have to say, whether you’re an audiophile or just a casual listener, you will surely appreciate the amazing audio quality in the SteelSeries Arctis Pro.
I have already mentioned previously that the SteelSeries Arctis Pro offers really realistic as well as clear and crisp sound qualities whenever you’re gaming.
For some, this might not be too big of a deal but if you’re playing games where you need to be attentive to everything going around you, it helps a lot and gives any gamer a real competitive edge.
Even if you’re just playing games that aren’t competitive, being able to immerse yourself with the in-game audio is another way to put you in the gaming mood for hours on end.
If that’s not enough, you also have the option to tweak and customize the sound settings of your headphones with the SteelSeries software according to your preference.
Overall, the audio quality this gaming headphone delivers is truly top tier and one of the best out there.
Comfortable To Wear
One of my absolute favorite things about the SteelSeries Arctis Pro is just how comfortable it is to wear around my head. It fits snugly and perfectly without feeling any uncomfortable weight on my head.
Usually, when I wear headphones for a certain amount of time, I start to feel their weight which results in minor headaches. But with the SteelSeries Arctis Pro, I don’t experience that at all. The foam is soft to the touch against my ears and the overall headphones are pretty lightweight too.
Not to mention, the self-adjusting ski goggle on the headphones works perfectly when it comes to adjusting to the shape of my head. I don’t feel any weird contours or shapes pressing against my skull while I game for hours and hours.
GameDAC
The biggest and main selling point of the SteelSeries Arctis Pro is its dedicated GameDAC. And I have to say, that it works really impressively. One of the best things about this is that it is a digital to analog converter made and designed specifically for gaming in mind.
While most gaming headsets in the market come with their own built-in converters, the GameDAC on the Arctis Pro easily outperforms them with its higher quality audio performance. In addition, it also has its own amplifier circuit which helps in delivering extremely low distortion at the highest output levels.
The GameDAC also has its OLED screen display which allows you to adjust the volume, the Sidetone which lets you customize how much of yourself you want to hear when speaking into the mic, the EQ curve, input, and other customization settings without having to open the SteelSeries software.
When it comes to the built-in microphones of most gaming headsets, I found that these things can be big hits or misses. However, with the SteelSeries Arctis Pro, the microphone itself offers just enough decent audio output that you won’t sound too static-y, distorted, or even robotic.
If your voice is on the higher and brighter spectrum, you shouldn’t run into any problems when using this pair of headphones. But if you have a deep, bassy voice, you might end up sounding just a little bit tinier than expected.
Overall, the mic is not terrible, but if you’re putting out two hundred dollar gaming headphones, I would expect it to perform a lot better than this.
It’s Expensive
Now this might not bother some of you and you might even be willing to pay the full price of the SteelSeries Arctis Pro, but it still doesn’t sway anything from the fact that it’s a very pricy piece of technology.
It’s not the most expensive and I do agree that the costs somewhat justify the price, especially with the number of amazing features and audio quality you’re getting from the Arctis Pro. However, a lot of gaming companies are also coming out with gaming headphones that are just as good with more competitive prices.
It’s really up to your personal preference if you will go with this brand or check out more budget-friendly options.
In A Nutshell
Now that we have finished breaking down the things we loved and disliked about the SteelSeries Arctis Pro, let’s narrow down the pros and cons of this particular gaming headset.
Pros
Amazing surround sound.
Sound quality is great enough to please both audiophiles and gamers alike.
GameDAC works really well.
Also offers a wireless variant.
Comfortable to wear around your head even after long hours of use.
Cons
Microphone could be better, especially on the bass department.
On the pricier end.
The Final Verdict
Overall, the Arctis Pro from SteelSeries is hands-down one of the best sounding headphones for gamers in the market right now. Sure, the $200+ price tag that comes along with it can be a little steep for some of you but I find that it’s so worth it especially if you think about a pair of gaming headphones of this caliber.
With the SteelSeries Arctis Pro, you’re not just getting a simple accessory to pair with your gaming setup, you’re getting a piece of technology that’s comfortable to wear for hours on end and will provide you with one of the most amazing in-game audio experiences to date.
Whether you’re willing to splurge or look the other way, it’s completely up to you.
Do you already own the SteelSeries Arctis Pro? How is it working for you? Let me know about your insights and experiences in the comments section below. I would love to hear your thoughts!
Affiliate Disclosure: I am grateful to be of service and to bring you content free of charge. In order to do this, please note that when you click links and purchase items, in most cases I receive referral commissions. Eventually, I may earn enough to buy a beer or two.
When it comes to a gaming setup, a good gaming headphone is something that shouldn’t be overlooked at all. That’s why for today, I’ll be giving you my top recommendations of the best headphones for gaming in 2021.
Sure, things like your GPU, your monitor, keyboard are things that might be on top of your priority list. But having the right gaming headphone can make a huge difference in your overall gaming experience. Especially when audio and sound effects can potentially play such an important role in a game.
I don’t know about you, but listening to a game’s battle music just puts me in the right mood to conquer any mission or quest. Sometimes, it can even be the difference between winning or losing. But that’s just me.
Regardless if you like to immerse yourself in the game’s official audio, prefer to listen to your own playlist in the background, rather talk to your fellow gamers or friends, or need to pay attention to your enemy’s every movement or footsteps, finding the right gaming headphone to do the job can be a daunting task.
So to help you out in narrowing down your options, below are my top picks that are worth considering as you go headphone shopping.
Do You Need Gaming Headphones?
Before we dive into my list of recommendations, let’s answer some questions first.
For competitive gamers, especially the ones who get into intensive e-sport competitions, a gaming headphone can be crucial to one’s path to victory. But even casual gamers can enjoy the benefits of good gaming headphones and make their gaming sessions a lot more enjoyable.
It might not seem like it, but using the right headphones for gaming will help you communicate better with your teammates. The right headphones will let you hear even the smallest of footsteps from afar so you can anticipate your enemy’s next movements. It can also pinpoint audio cues to let you know what is happening around you.
When you have all these qualities and features in your gaming headphones, winning the game can be a lot easier for you and your team.
What is the difference between gaming headphones and regular headphones?
But how does a gaming headphone differ from the regular headphones we use every day exactly?
The answer is in the overall build quality actually. Gaming headphones are built specifically with gamers in mind. That means most gaming headphones you will come across in the market are usually equipped with things like:
Built-in microphone. The mics on gaming headphones are usually a lot more fine-tuned. Which helps in better communication between you and your teammates. These mics can be detachable too.
Better surround sound experience. With gaming headphones, it’s very important that you get that additional awareness or audio cues when it comes to your surroundings.
Comfortable build quality. When you’re playing a game, you usually take plenty of hours doing it. Sometimes, we don’t even notice the time. That’s why manufacturers make it a point to make sure that their gaming headphones will provide maximum comfort to their users.
Gamer aesthetics. When it comes to aesthetics, gaming headphones are usually a lot more stylish or edgy in terms of design. Though personally, they can be hit or miss.
And these are just a few reasons why I think a quality gaming headset is essential to one’s gaming session.
My Top Recommendations
1. SteelSeries Arctis Pro
Overview
If you truly want the best of the best when it comes to your audio during every gaming session, the SteelSeries Arctis Pro is the pair of gaming headphones you need to look into. It’s one of the industry-leading headphones in the gaming community that’s sleek, sturdy, and comfortable to use.
Known for providing terrific audio quality that e-sports competitions use, SteelSeries will surely not disappoint you whether you’re using their headphones for your games or just for listening to any kind of audio content. The sound effects from your games will specifically feel a lot more immersive with this just sitting on top of your head.
Whether you’re gaming competitively or just doing it for your own leisure, you will absolutely enjoy the quality sound the SteelSeries Arctis Pro is offering.
Not to mention, gamers who are also audiophiles or just casual listeners will ultimately love this product due to its impressive surround sound features and its built-in DAC (digital to analogue converter). This particular headset has been consistently topping review lists for some time now and for good reason.
Personally, this is probably one of the best-sounding gaming headphones you can get your hands on in the market today. The only downside I can see is that this model is on the pricier side, so if you’re someone who is on a tight budget, there are definitely other options for you to check out on this list.
Another huge name in this list is the BlackShark V2 Pro – Wireless from Razer. If you’re unaware, Razer is one of the top and most popular brands in the gaming market right now. Almost every gamer in the world knows them and their company.
Whether it be gaming keyboards, mouses, or headphones, you’re assured that their products are of the highest quality. They’re not one of the leading gaming companies for no reason after all. Aside from that, many of their products have won multiple awards and received recognition as well.
With that being said, what you’re getting with Razer’s BlackShark V2 Pro is no different from their many award-winning peripherals.
Aside from giving impeccable audio quality, the BlackShark V2 Pro is also priced pretty reasonably. No need to break the bank on this one! What’s more, the software used in this pair of gaming headphones is also pretty easy to understand.
So how does the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro pull it off? By making discrete ports for their 50mm TriForce Titanium drivers to make sure that the bass, mid, tremble tones are separated from each other and will avoid any kind of clashing.
In turn, you will get a much richer, brighter, and fuller sound without experiencing any distortion whatsoever.
If you were disappointed by the SteelSeries Arctis Pro’s steep pricing, the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is surely a more budget-friendly option for you that doesn’t make any compromises or sacrificed any major bells and whistles.
If you have been on the hunt for the best wireless gaming headset in the market, then your search is finally over. The HyperX Cloud II Wireless offers its unparalleled sound and build quality to its users on top of the features we already know and love from its predecessors.
Coming from a long line of excellence, HyperX does not disappoint at all with the Cloud II Wireless. It’s an ultra-comfortable pair of headphones with a closed-back design that ensures top quality in the audio department.
The spacious 53mm with neodymium magnets are there to make sure that your game’s audio’s highs, lows, and mids resonate without clashing with one another. While admittedly, the bass quality could have been a lot better, its other impressive features more than make up for it.
Such impressive features include a 30-hour battery life in a single charge depending on usage, great padding, high comfort levels despite long hours of playtime, and a clear microphone just to name a few.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 7.48 x 5.35 x 3.66 inches
Manufacturer / Brand: HyperX
Type: Over ear.
Item Weight: 10.6 ounces
Wireless: Yes, Wireless 2.4GHz.
Connectivity: USB Dongle, 2.4GHz
Mic: Yes, detachable with mute LED.
Driver/s: 53mm with neodymium magnets.
Frequency Response: 15Hz-20kHz
Noise Cancelling: Yes.
Color: Red and Gun metal.
Special Features: 30-hour battery life,
Pros
Comfortable padding.
Nice build quality.
Long battery life that can last up to 30 hours depending on usage.
Another impressive wireless option in our best headphones for gaming list this 2021 is the Logitech G Pro X Wireless.
Gone are the days where gamers were plagued with constant latency issues when it came to wireless gaming headphones. This is all thanks to Logitech setting the bar and the high standard for wireless audio with the Logitech G Pro X Wireless.
Aside from offering you low latency, this particular pair of gaming headphones is also undoubtedly one of the best wireless headphones in the market today. With amazing build quality, sleek and comfortable design, as well as excellent sound quality, you really can’t go wrong considering this one as one of your top picks.
If that’s not enough to convince you, the Logitech G Pro X Wireless also boasts 20 hours of battery life on a single charge with this model while providing a wireless range of up to 15 meters. My only qualm with this unit is that the microphone could have been done a lot better by Logitech.
But if you’re the type of gamer who likes to play solo anyway and don’t use a microphone that often, then the mediocre mic shouldn’t pose any problem at all to you.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 5.43 x 3.7 x 7.68 inches
Manufacturer / Brand: Logitech
Type: Over ear.
Item Weight: 0.82 lbs
Wireless: Yes.
Connectivity: USB Lightspeed
Console Compatibility: PS4, PC, and Nintendo Switch
Mic: Yes.
Driver/s: PRO-G 50 mm drivers
Frequency Response: 20 Hz-20 KHz
Noise Cancelling: No.
Color: Black.
Special Features: Blue Vo!ce Advanced Mic Technology.
Pros
Sleek, minimalist design.
Great build quality.
Impressive surround sound and overall audio quality.
Comfortable to wear even after long hours of gaming.
Xbox gamers will love this next gaming headphones from SteelSeries. The SteelSeries Arctis 9X Wireless offers a built-in Xbox Wireless Technology to make sure that you’re getting low audio latency whenever you’re gaming.
Apart from that, this particular pair of gaming headphones also come in with Bluetooth connectivity. That means you can also pair up these headphones with your phone so you can listen to your all-time favorite music while still being connected to your console.
And because SteelSeries is known for its amazing audio quality, gamers and audiophiles alike will truly enjoy using the Arctis 9X. Not to mention, the model is wireless. So if you’re worried about annoying cables snaking around your space, then you won’t have to think about that anymore.
Performance isn’t sacrificed at all despite the SteelSeries Arctis 9X being wireless and you’re getting more than 20 hours of playtime from a single charge. You can also continue using the headset while it’s still charging.
When it comes to comfortability, the ski goggle found on the upper part of the headset prevents its overall weight from digging onto your head. So even after long marathons of gaming, the headset still feels pretty comfortable to wear.
However, keep in mind that some users of this particular model have also reported some inconsistencies in terms of sound delivery. Some also complained that their headphones would disconnect from their devices on their own which some found an inconvenience or interference in their gameplay.
But overall, the SteelSeries Arctis 9X Wireless is still a pretty solid choice for gaming headphones and should please most of you.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 8.07 x 8.26 x 3.62 inches
Manufacturer / Brand: SteelSeries
Type: Over ear.
Item Weight: 1.2 pounds
Wireless: Yes.
Connectivity: Bluetooth.
Mic: Yes.
Driver/s: 40mm neodymium drivers.
Frequency Response: 20Hz-22,000Hz
Noise Cancelling: Yes.
Color: Black.
Special Features: Retractable noise cancelling mic, DTS Headphone: X, 7.1 surround, 20+ hours of battery life.
Pros
Comfortable even after long hours of wear.
Great build quality.
Has Bluetooth connectivity.
Nice microphone quality.
Has noise-cancelling features.
Cons
Expensive.
Weak bass.
Inconsistent sound delivery.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The SteelSeries Arctis 9X Wireless?
This next gaming headset in our list of the best headphones for gaming this 2021 is for anyone who likes a bit of color in their gaming equipment while having the luxury of great audio quality. The Logitech G733 LightSpeed is exactly that.
While gaming headsets are far from boring, seeing the same colors over and over again can be quite tiring. So if you’re feeling the same, the G733 LightSpeed from Logitech is something you should set your eyes on.
This particular gaming headset offers 4 bright, color variants of black, white, lilac, and blue encased in an all-plastic body with a clashing strap, and some colored LED light strips to accentuate the design further.
Some of you might get hesitant because of the plastic build but not to worry, this device is pretty sturdy with little to no movement or tension on any of its parts. Moreover, despite its oddly shaped design, the Logitech G733 LightSpeed is a very comfortable pair of headphones to wear while also being pretty lightweight around the head.
As for its performance, Logitech rarely disappoints when it comes to its headphones. So the quality doesn’t miss either. What’s more, you can get up to 29 hours of battery life on this device on a single charge. Less if you’re using the flashy LED lights.
The only major downside I see from this model is that it doesn’t have great noise-cancelling options. But if your gaming space isn’t really that noisy to begin with, then there shouldn’t be a problem when you’re using this.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 5.43 x 3.7 x 7.68 inches
Manufacturer / Brand: Logitech
Type: Over ear.
Item Weight: 9.8 ounces
Wireless: Yes.
Connectivity: Bluetooth.
Mic: Yes.
Driver/s: PRO-G 40 mm
Frequency Response: 20 Hz-20 KHz
Noise Cancelling: No.
Color: Black, white, lilac, and blue.
Special Features: Blue Voice software, 29-hour battery life.
Last but not least in our list of the best headphones for gaming is the Astro Gaming A50 Wireless.
I have to admit, the first thing that caught my eyes with this gaming headset is its edgy and unique look. Some will like this, some will give it a pass. However, despite its hit-or-miss design, the sound quality this provides its users is something that you shouldn’t definitely miss out on.
The Astro Gaming A50 Wireless will give you one of the most immersive and excellent audio qualities your ears will ever get to hear. And that’s no exaggeration, either. I’m pretty sure that any audiophile will also love the experience this brings.
Wireless headsets have had a reputation for latency issues, but this particular model has impressive latency so you don’t have to worry about any disconnection whatsoever. I could go on and on about how awesome this device is, but to see is to believe. So I highly suggest testing this out when you can for yourself to see what I’m talking about.
Though I have to mention such premium and amazing features also come with a premium price. So if you’re on a budget, this might not be the best option for you. But for those who can afford to splurge on a gaming headset, I would recommend giving this a try.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 1.15 x 4.25 inches.
Manufacturer / Brand: Astro Gaming
Type: Over Ear
Item Weight: 1.49 pounds
Wireless: Yes.
Connectivity: USB Micro-B
Mic: Yes, with voice isolation.
Driver/s: 40mm Neodymium Magnet
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20,000Hz
Noise Cancelling: No.
Color: Black.
Special Features: Dolby Audio, Compatible with PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS3, PC, and mobile, Astro Audio, 5.8GHz wireless tech with MixAmp, and a USB charging with base station.
Now that we have covered the best headphones for gaming in 2021, here are some quick shopping tips for you to consider before making your final purchases.
Your Budget
As with anything you’re planning to buy or invest in, the best way to approach things is by planning how much you’re willing to spend on a certain product. Or in this case, for your gaming headphones.
Not only will this determine the models or units you need to be keeping an eye out for, but having a set budget will also help narrow down your options to avoid getting overwhelmed with the endless choices.
Fortunately for you, with so many gaming headphones available in the market right now, no matter how much budget you set you’re sure to find one that is just around the price range you’re comfortable in. Just make sure that the one you are getting has excellent value for its price and that you’re not getting the short end of the stick.
Wired or Wireless?
When it comes to gaming headphones, there are two options or variants you will most likely find: a wireless variant and a wired one. What you choose ultimately comes down to your personal preference but here are some reasons you might want to consider.
Wired Headsets
Though there are obvious advantages and disadvantages to both options, with a wired headset, you’re getting the standard headphones of most gamers. In-game sounds will be heard a lot more clearly and communication between you and your teammates are more distinguishable as well.
Many gamers in the community prefer the tried-and-tested wired headphones because they’re a lot more reliable. You don’t have to worry about the battery life, just plug it into your PC or console then you can play right away, and not to mention, pricing is almost always more affordable than their wireless counterparts.
The only thing you need to keep in mind though, a lot of wired headsets nowadays are able to retain a cheaper price due to them using a much older kind of technology. Also, cable damage is a huge possibility over time.
Wireless Headsets
When it comes to wireless headphones, you will be able to have the privilege of mobility. Though, wireless headsets didn’t always have an easy ride. Before the arrival of 2.4GHz connections, wireless headsets were unreliable due to their susceptibility to delays, lags, and signal loss. However, these days, those things are now a problem of the past.
With the right wireless headsets, you will be getting the same top-tier sound quality from their wired counterparts. That is if you will be willing to shell out a few extra bucks of cash. Plus, the reduction of clutter and not having to worry about wires getting in the way of your gaming sessions seems like a worthy upgrade.
The only thing you will be worrying about is the constant charging. Some headsets still let you use it while it’s charging though, but you are going to have to deal with the wire once again.
Surround Sound
Having surround sound gaming headphones is pretty important especially if you’re into competitive gaming. Depending on the type of games you’re into, having this feature can give you that huge competitive edge or advantage over other players.
Gaming headphones that offer surround sound provide up to a 360-degree soundscape. This means you are getting multiple speakers covering each ear. So once you’re in the game, if something or someone is coming at you from behind from any direction, you’ll hear it instantly from that exact direction.
Players of Valorant, Fortnite, and other first-person shooting games will appreciate this. So if you’re one of the million players partaking in these types of games, then taking into account a gaming headphone’s surround sound quality is a must.
Fortunately for you, surround sound is a pretty common feature now for gaming headphones to have. Unlike in other forms of entertainment where having this can cost a luxury. So they’re not that hard to find especially in the gaming community.
Do keep in mind that surround sound comes in a variety of standards. Some game companies follow the Dolby 7.1, DTS:X 2, or Windows Sonic standards, while some create their own variant. Though personally, I find there is really not a lot of difference between these surround sound standards.
So whatever type you prefer, you will still most likely get the same virtual 7.1 environment simulation.
Built-in Microphone
Microphones are usually overlooked a lot when it comes to deciding which factors matter in gaming headphones. For solo gamers, mics don’t really have a lot of use but for people who love to play co-op games wherein you need to rely on your team a lot, a good mic can make or break your matches.
While the built-in microphones on gaming headsets are either hit-or-miss, you still need to consider at least getting one that’s decent where you won’t sound too muffled, quiet, or static-y.
Conclusion
Overall, having a reliable gaming headset can make the difference between winning and losing a game. While it’s not as important as which GPU to get, it’s still something that you will ultimately invest in to complete your gaming setup.
A good and reliable pair of gaming headphones will do just the job of putting you in the right mood to conquer any battlefield or world. I just hope that you find the right one for you through the help of our list of top picks.
Do you already own any of the listed gaming headphones in our top recommendations? Did your favorite make it in our top picks? Let us know if you have any experiences or insights to share in the comments section below. I would love to hear your thoughts!
