Gaming headsets are hugely popular in the gaming world. They provide a more intimate audio experience in comparison to gaming speakers. gaming headsets can be used for communication purposes in addition to providing immersion and enagmement within the games audio. This is most notable playing first person shooting or single player focused games where listening for intricate details such as movement of opponents is a key feature.
for sim racers this may be a slightly different experience where you may simply wanted to feel connected to the screeching engine of the cars. On a more practical note gaming headsets are essential when it comes to late night gaming action and also for streamers. This article will pick out what I believe are the best gaming headsets for when you take to the track.
Gaming Headsets featured in the Article:
- Steel Series
- Cosair
- EPOS
- Sony
- Razer
- Astro
- Hyper X
- Turtle Beach
Wireless Gaming Headsets V Wired Gaming Headsets
The question of wireless v wired comes down to one thing, which is preference. Both have their pros and cons and there is no clear answer, it is simply on what type of gamer you are and your requirements. However this question is coming some what redundant as brands are no incorporating the two into one. Meaning that most headsets nowadays incorporate wireless through a bluetooth connection and wired through a headphone jack.
Wired or wired option headsets plugged into the 3.5mm jack often produce a higher quality sound, however wireless offers convenience and the ability to play games from range, particularly if you are a console gamer.
Things to consider when buying a Gaming Headset:
There are 3 key criteria when considering the purchase of a gaming headset. These include, comfort, sound and cost.
Comfort
Depending on the hours that a you play a huge factor will be the comfort of the Headset. This will include the way the headsets rests on your head and also how the ear cups enclose your ears. Our heads vary in shapes and sizes therefore some headsets may have the ideal fit. Along with this the materials used by manufacturers also comes into play. Therefore a comfortable fit is imperative.
Sound
Gaming headsets will include drivers – which convert and audio signal into soundwaves. This consists of the frequencies such as the high end frequencies, mid range and the bass.
Dependant on the quality of the drivers and technology used by brands this gives Gamers varying experiences of sound dependant on the craftsmanship of the headphone, in particular the drivers. This also is reliant on the game you are playing and what type of sounds you want to experience more for a possible advantage or simply fun.
Cost
The age old argument of cost is normally what you get it what you pay for. More often than not this is the case, however not always. In essence the more you pay the better quality you will get.
However it is for the individual to make this judgment on value. By reading articles like this and also going out and doing more research will help in your decision. What is value to you may not be valuable to another. Therefore you have to understand where you sit, such as budget, mid range or High end.
Steel Series Arctis Nova 7 X
The Steel Series Arctis Nova 7 X headset has been marked as the Xbox version which can be used across all platforms. Sports weave ear cuffs formlate the material on the cushioning. A silky material beneath the main head band provides as a comfortable support mechanism. The ear cuffs also have a swivel mechanism which help to rest on your neck when requiring a break.
Comfortable headsets is what we are seeking and the Arctis 7X doesn’t disappoint in this department. The Headset is lightweight and sits comfortably on the head without any noticeable issues. There is a retractable mic which also has a mute indicator on the front. At 30 hours of battery life you’ll have plenty gaming time before having to charge if utilising through wireless.
The Headset supports bluetooth, 3.5 mm Jack , and 2.4 – via the dongle. The USB dongle allows simultaneous use when connected to other devices. Chat dial is connected through the xbox or on the PC via the Sonar software. The micis relatively dissaponting in comparison to others on the market. More importanlty however is the sound which does not disappoint with it’s excellent quality at all frequencies.
Cosair HS80 RGB Wireless
The Cosair HS80 RGB wireless is supported through a USB cable. The Headset has soft material on the ear cup which is soft, cushy and very comfortable. A full swivel function has been applied to the ear cups which allows the headset to sit around the neck comfortably without having to take them off fully.
A subtle adjustable head band and compliments the sleek look of the headset. Metal framing provides support and stability of the headset with quality plastic making up the rest of the build. Cosiair are known for their excellent mics which is present in this model.
Almost flawless clarity and an array of adjustable options to your liking, along with a flip feature incorporating a mute on-off function. Cosair claim wireless usage is up to 20 hours of battery use. Both PC and PS5 can be connected are connected via the USB. The Headset really excels with its audio, producing a rich sound with a natural bass feel and minimal hinderance from outside noise.
EPOS H6 PRO
Epos have brought to the market two versions of the EPOS H6 Pro. One being the open cup headset and the closed cup version. This difference comes down to the type of ear cup cloth in use. On the open version the cloth is soft but slightly more rigid where as the closed version presents a more plush material.
Advertised as a Black set of headphones they actually appear more navy however this does not take away from the sleek design. Here you’ll notice the usual swivel and adjustment mechanism associated with many gaming headsets of today.
On the headset is a removable flip mic mechanism detachable from the centre rear of the ear. The Sound quality produced from the EPOS H6 Pros is extremely good, with is 43mm drivers the range provides an incredibly balanced audio which is hugely satisfying.
Inzone H9
Here is Sony’s latest headset model, the Sony Inzone H9. The selling point for the Intone H9 is the active noise cancelling feature, ambient mode and the ability to run the headset , Simultaneously with 2.4 ghz connectivity and Bluetooth making the Intone H9 a completely wireless headset.
Sony have put together a well made Headset, With its’ white plastic outer shell and matte white headband the Intone H9 does have a nice look. Soft knit leather provides comfort on the ear cups and interior headband. The swivel mechanism is quite unique in that they ball that connects as a hinge has a circular motion.
A USB dongle is used to connect with PC and PS5 however the device is not compatible with XBOX. A non removable mic which has the flick to mute function offers slight flexibility however the actual sound quality of the mic is not very impressive.
The Inzone H9 are quite impressive in the audio department with quality detail in its variation of frequencies. Also standing out is the software with many great features to toggle through.
Razer blackshark V2 Pros
Potentially one of the best looking and fitting headsets is the Razer Blackshark V2 Pros. Both the headband and ear cups have externally been kitted out with braided sports material on the interior is pleather material. This provides a much feel which feels superbly comfortable.
The Swivel on this headset unfortunately is not particularly expansive with the range of motion.
Despite that the V2 Pros are a very lightweight headset. Made from plastic combined with metal arms for the brackets. These wired brackets do not appear to have the most sturdy mechanism to act as a bridge between headband and ear cups which looks slightly flimsy and could potentially cause an issue under continued stress.
Battery life is said to be up to 24 hours with wireless usage. The dongle is compatible with PC, PS5 and a few other devices however there is no XBOX connection through wireless but users can connect through the jack.
The Razer Blackshark V2 Pros has excellent sound, a nice clear base that feels natural, immersive and incredibly detailed. It also features the Synapse software for configuration however slightly disappointing is the lack of a bluetooth option.
Hyper X Cloud II Wireless
The Hyper cloud x wireless are an excellent gaming headset which were released in 2020. This is a durable headset however lack the swivel mechanism found on many of todays products. Despite this the ear cups compromise of soft cushioning and along with the fit makes this a comfortable headset all round.
A detachable mic is featured which also comes with a windscreen. The quality of the mic is reasonable but don’t expect anything spectacular. 30 Hours of battery life is the usage stated from wireless play. The sound on the headset is really something that will keep you excited and really pops out at you across all titles of gaming. The sound quality is derived from the 53mm drivers with a frequency range from 15000 – 20000.
Astro A30
The Astro A30 is a great looking headset. With its memory foam clothed ear cups you’ll have no problem with comfort on ear. The headset its self is lightweight with a rubber like headband which may be the headsets one negative point is it may not feel comfortable for long use. There is full swivel adjustment which offer nice flex. As with many headsets the build is mostly made of plastic which still has a quality feel to it.
A detachable mic is present on the headset, and a nice feature is the magnetic ear pads that are removable from the exterior. Wired and wireless features have been implemented with the headset with up to 27 hours of battery life, in addition bluetooth is also an available function and can all be paired to different devices at the same time.
Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 Max
The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 Max headset can be used on all gaming platforms through its wireless dongle. The presentation and design is unique in that it boasts an excellent colour scheme of mostly dark navy, gold trims and a hint of black.
Incorporated into the design is a versatile swivel and adjustment mechanism with good range of movement. The ear pads are formed of outer pleater, silky sports material, cooling gel and memory foam. Plush full pleather forms the material on the head band which is very comfortable and ideal for long periods of gaming. Also featured is the customary flip to mute mic which has in to out flexibility.
The majority of the headset is made from plastic material and metal in the adjustment frame
With the headband finished in with a matte effect. It really feels like a quality product that has been put together well. Wirless usage amounts to 40 hours of battery life.
There is also a Turtle beach app for functionality and more features. The Headset is built with 50 mm drivers with a 20000 -22000 frequency range this offers excellent sound which is enjoyable, makes you feel connected to the game and is well balanced across the ranges.