Headsets have become a big part of the gaming industry. They’re a way to communicate with friends and meet new people as you play games online. Headsets are also a great way to connect with your audience during your streams by recording your voice.
When you use a headset, you are able to eliminate the noise around you and focus on the conversations you’re having with your audience. Headsets often come equipped with a mic that is always in a position where it picks up your voice easily.
The microphone on a headset is superior to the alternate option of a stand-alone mic because the latter constantly needs to be moved with you as you shift in your seat. But in addition to an attached microphone, what else should you look for in a headset? Let’s explore!
What to Look for in a Gaming Headset
There are a few factors to keep in mind when choosing a gaming headset. Here are a few of the most important details for you to consider.
Connectivity
The way your headset connects to your streaming setup comes down to personal preference. Bluetooth has become a popular and reliable option for connecting headsets to consoles or computers, but wired connections are also an option. However, even though they are reliable, the limited distance can quickly become an issue for streamers.
When you have a wired headset with a cable that is only a couple of feet in length, you will have to be close to your console or PC at all times. That being said, there are 2 types of wired headsets that you can choose from: standard TRRS or USB. Both are viable choices, but it’s very hard to find headsets with a USB connectivity feature.
Sound Quality
If you are serious about streaming, you’ll need to find a headset that is comfortable enough to wear often. You’ll want a headset that feels comfortable on your head and ears. As long as the band size and earpieces are adjustable, you should be good.
The headphones also need to be comfortable in the sense of how the audio plays. Ear fatigue is a genuine concern when you wear headphones for long periods of time. If you have headphones that are abrasive, it could lead to hearing issues down the road.
Mic Quality
Mic quality is not a big concern in today’s world as many companies have figured out how to make detailed and clear mics that are very small. Some headsets come with detachable mics that can be replaced very easily. You could also simply take the mic off and enjoy the headphones on their own.
Durability
At some point in every gamer’s history of gaming, there is at least one moment where they experience some rage. This isn’t to say that your headset needs to be able to take a beating every day, but keep in mind that gamers are not always the most gentle users.
Accidents happen, too. It’s not uncommon to spill your drink or step on your headset. With this in mind, you’ll want to find a headset that can take the wear and tear of regular use. Headsets with metal frames are perfect because they can handle frequent use without breaking, whereas plastic headsets are more likely to fall apart easily.
The Top 5 Best Gaming Headsets
With a couple of these important factors in mind, you will be able to decide which headset is best for you.
The Hyper X Cloud II is a popular headset for any platform. It works on any console as well as all PCs. The headset provides some of the best audio and mic quality out there. They even come with interchangeable cups for the earpieces and they make it possible to perfect the overall fit of your headset.
Pros:
- Interchangeable earpiece cups
- Available wireless or wired
- Detachable mic
- Fantastic frequency response
- Aluminum frame for durability
Cons:
- Does not offer a wired and wireless option all in one headset
Best for detailed sound.
Pricing:
- Wired: $99.99
- Wireless: $149.99
The HS70 headset is available as either wired or wireless headphones. Corsair has been one of the biggest trendsetters in the gaming scene and the brand has definitely set an expectation for future headsets with the HS70.
Pros:
- Adjustable ear cups
- Has on-headset volume controls
- Available wireless or wired
- Detachable microphone
- Metal frame for durability
Cons:
- Does not offer the wired and wireless options together
Best for: on-headset controls.
Pricing:
- Both options are $99.99
The Arctic Pro Wireless is one of the absolute top-tier choices for any gamer. Steelseries is one of the best headset companies and their Arctic headset series does not disappoint. The Arctic Pro Wireless option comes with a receiver that can connect directly to your device, making for the cleanest possible connection thanks to the customizable controls.
This headset even comes with two interchangeable batteries so you’ll always have one battery powering the headset and another battery charged and ready to use when the current battery dies.
Pros:
- Interchangeable batteries
- Lossless receiver
- Customized system EQ settings
- Discord certified
Cons:
- Not compatible with Xbox
Best for: professional voice and audio features.
Pricing:
- $329.99
The QuietComfort 35 II has got to be one of the best options for a wired headset. It provides crisp, clean audio to its users. It’s also the official headset partner for LoL Esports Global Events. With its noise-cancelling abilities, you will never lose your focus during games.
Pros:
- Noise-cancelling headphones
- Comes with a PC desktop controller
- Bluetooth listening capabilities
Cons:
- Mic is not compatible via wireless connections
Best for: PC users.
Pricing: $329.00
Sennheiser is one of the best names in audio. The GSP 600 Series is the perfect wired headset for any gamer. There are 3 options available: 600, 601 and 602. The only difference among those 3 options is the color of the headset. Every other characteristic is the same.
Pros:
- Detailed audio
- Sleek design
- On headset controls
- Lift-to-mute mic boom arm
Cons:
- Only available as a wired headset
Best for: audiophiles.
Pricing: $219.00
Improve Your Streams with Only the Best Equipment
When it comes down to it, the best headset for you is completely based on personal opinion. Some users prefer a wired connection while others prefer a wireless connection. At the same time, many people prefer headsets that offer the versatility of both.
That being said, the various types of headsets have shown that there’s a lot of ingenuity and quality within the gaming community. You’ll never have to suffer from poor-quality voice recordings, missed communications with teammates or an inability to interact with your chat ever again thanks to these crystal clear options.
The best gaming headset for you will make a difference in your gameplay and overall gaming experience!
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