Gaming Headphones 101: Types of Headphones & What to Look For

A perfect gaming session is not possible without the right accessories and hardware. Apart from having a fast, reliable internet connection and a good gaming computer, you also need to focus on other details to have the best experience while playing. This includes investing in the right accessories like gaming monitors, ergonomic desk chairs, and of course, the perfect gaming headphones.

These headphones not only help you get into your character, but they also always keep you alert and attentive. The best gaming headphones can offer you a more immersive experience and improve your performance, allowing you to hear sounds that are hidden in normal headphones or speakers like hearing someone creep up on you from behind.

Unfortunately, there are so many types of gaming headsets available today that choosing the best one can be quite confusing. This article aims to give you detailed information about different types of headsets, their key features, pros and cons, and some important tips on how to choose the best one for your needs.


What to Look for When Buying Gaming Headphones

There are a few important factors to keep in mind when buying gaming headphones. These factors will help you decide which type of headset is best for you. Let's look at what they are.

  • Audio Quality: While gaming, your headphones should produce clear, balanced sound without any distortion while playing games or listening to music.
  • Comfort: The headphones that you choose should be comfortable to be worn for long hours without causing any irritation or pain. Pay particular attention to the earcups and headband.
  • Design and Build: The headsets should have a sleek design and be made up of high-quality materials so that they last longer.
  • Earcup Design: The earcup design of the headphones can make a huge difference in terms of comfort and noise cancellation.
  • Microphone Quality: A microphone is important when you are playing online games. The microphone should be clear and easy to use. It should also be flexible enough so that you can mute it when not in use.

Types of Gaming Headsets

  • Closed Back Headphones: Closed back headphones are the most common type of headsets. They are usually inexpensive, and you can use them for listening to music or for gaming. They are suitable for long sessions because they are lightweight and can be worn for hours without causing any pain. They offer a fully immersive experience as most outside ambient noise is sealed off. One of our personal favorites would be the beyerdynamic DT 240 Pro Closed Studio Headphones.
  • Open Back Headphones: Open back headphones, such as the popular beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro Open Dynamic Headphones, may be slightly more expensive than closed back headsets, but they provide an unobstructed sound and very deep bass. They’re also great for helping you to hear ambient noise while using them. They are most commonly used for music production, gaming, and watching movies.
  • Earbuds: Earbuds, or in-ear headphones, are small and lightweight and are designed for use with smartphones, laptops, and tablets. Although they may not be suitable for gaming, they’re perfect for taking calls and listening to audio on the go.
  • Wireless Headphones: Wireless headphones may be more expensive than their wired equivalent, but they compensate by providing a greater freedom of movement and are extremely popular nowadays because of their great sound quality.

Best Over Ear Headphones for Gaming

If you are looking for the best over ear headphones for gaming, we recommend the beyerdynamic MMX 150 USB Gaming Headset. These headphones are designed for long gaming sessions and come with an ergonomic design and a lightweight build. They have an excellent audio quality and are very comfortable to wear even for long hours. These high performing headphones are compatible with most gaming consoles and computers via USB. Its’ built-in cardioid microphone excels at suppressing typical gaming sounds, such as keyboard or console clicks. The audio quality is excellent, and the exceptional sound isolation allows you to focus during your gaming sessions. 

Best Wireless Headsets for Gaming

If you are looking for the best wireless headphones for gaming, we recommend the beyerdynamic Amiron Wireless High-end Bluetooth Headphones. These are high-quality headphones that provide a better noise cancellation and a more immersive sound experience. They are fitted with the latest Bluetooth codecs, Qualcomm® aptX HD™ and Apple AAC, as well as aptX™ LL. Not only are the designed for longer gaming sessions, but you can easily control the pause and play features and the volume using the buttons on the headphones.

Best Gaming Headsets with Microphones

If you are looking for the best gaming headsets with microphones, we recommend the beyerdynamic MMX 100 Analogue Gaming Headset. These headsets have an ergonomic design and come with a breathable fabric that makes them comfortable to wear for long hours. They have a great sound quality and are compatible with most gaming consoles. Typical gaming noise such as mouse and keyboard clicks are effectively suppressed by the META VOICE cardioid microphone, and it can be muted directly via the separate mute push button as well as volume control buttons. The MMX 100 Headset is an inexpensive gaming headset that is ideal for casual gamers and is available in black (pictured) or grey. Don't just take our word for it - read this review in PC Gamer Magazine.

Immersive Sound - Make it Yours

Finding the best gaming headphones is a process that requires patience and diligence. Whether you’re after PS5 headsets, PC headset or headsets for Xbox, once you have narrowed down your choices, you can read their reviews, explore their features, and visit their official websites to get more information. You should also consider factors like your budget and the type of games you play so that you can choose the best gaming headset that suits your needs. Choosing the right gaming headphones can help you get a more immersive gaming experience and can also improve your performance.