Imagine a scenario where you miss a beep and your enemy catches you off guard. You are killed and lose the game. Frustrating, right?

A good gaming headset can be the difference between victory and defeat. But how do you choose the one that’s best for you, with so many gaming headsets on the market, with so many factors to consider?

This guide will present the knowledge accumulated over the years as well as recommendations to help you make an informed decision.

Build quality

The build quality of a gaming headset depends on the materials, design, and construction of the product, which is crucial for its durability and performance. You might think plastic means poor quality, but it’s lightweight, flexible, and surprisingly durable. Some headsets add a bit of metal for that premium feel, but don’t let that influence you. Focus on overall design and construction rather than just materials.

Specs aren’t everything

The specs are nice, but they don’t tell the whole story. Two helmets may look the same on paper, but they can look very different. There are three crucial aspects to consider.

The first is the driver settingwhich influences the frequency response and is arguably more important than the size of the speaker. For example, the Logitech G Pro

The following aspect, sensitivitywhich is measured in decibels per milliwatt (mW), is a measure of the sound level a headset can achieve. Higher sensitivity allows for finer volume control and louder sound at the same power level. For example, headphones with a sensitivity of 110 dB/mW are 10 dB louder than headphones with 100 dB/mW at the same power. However, volume also depends on impedance (measured in ohms). Impedance affects the damping factor, which in turn influences the accuracy of the audio. Higher impedance headphones deliver tighter, more accurate sound.

The third aspect, bit depth And sampling rateare particularly critical for wireless and USB headsets. Bit depth is like the resolution of your audio, while sample rate is like its frame rate. Higher bit depth and sample rates provide better audio quality, with 24-bit audio providing a wider dynamic range than 16-bit.

Understand the audio concept

When searching for gaming headsets, you’ll come across terms like Sound Stage, Sound Imaging, and Sound Signature. Here’s what they mean.

Sound stage it’s how wide or immersive the sound appears. A good soundstage makes the audio seem like it’s surrounding you, improving immersion and spatial awareness.

Sound imaging is the quality and accuracy of positional audio that helps you identify where sounds, like footsteps behind you, are coming from.

Sound signature is the flavor of your audio: how the bass, mids, and highs are balanced.

Stereo or surround sound

Choosing between stereo and surround sound is a matter of preference.

THE stereo sound The format uses two channels to create directional sound. It preserves the game’s original sound quality, accuracy, and details, making it excellent for precise positional cues, which is why gamers who value precision over immersion prefer it.

Surround sound uses multiple channels to provide a more immersive experience by simulating sounds coming from different directions. While this improves spatial awareness and immersion, it can introduce distortions, compromising audio accuracy. There are three types of surround sound.

Virtual Surround Sound, one of the types of surround sound, is a software technology that uses algorithms to simulate a surround sound effect from a stereo source. Although virtual surround sound can imitate Dolby Atmos and DTS, it may not match the real quality.

Dolby Atmos and DTS, the other two types, are both hardware technologies that use dedicated speakers or drivers for surround sound. They provide more precise and realistic effects by supporting more channels and precise sound positioning.

Closed back vs open back

Closed helmets isolate your ears from outside noise and provide better immersion and sound insulation. These headsets provide the most direct and accurate audio presentation and also help in easily locating the direction and distance of sound sources. However, they can cause discomfort due to heat and moisture trapped in the earbuds.

Open face helmets allow air and sound to pass through, creating a more natural and spacious sound, with a wider soundstage. You can detect sound cues and their position and direction in-game, but they may not be as accurate or detailed as with closed-back headsets. They transmit sound in both directions but are more comfortable for extended sessions.

Microphone quality: is it important?

Yes, it is. A high-quality microphone is essential for clear communication in multiplayer games.

You need a good headset that can deliver clear, immersive sound, as well as capture your voice for natural, crisp sound. Features like detachable or retractable mics, noise cancellation, and some gaming headsets also have a feature called sidetone (so you can hear yourself) that can significantly improve your gaming experience.

Cross-platform compatibility

Whether you’re on PC, console, or mobile, you need a headset that works well with all your gear. Any headset with a 3.5mm jack will work with any platform that accepts an analog connection, but may not support features like surround sound and RGB lighting.

USB headsets are more versatile because they can support more features and deliver better sound quality. Wireless headsets offer more mobility but may have compatibility issues due to different wireless technologies. Just make sure your headset is compatible with your setup.

Wireless or wired?

Wireless headsets are synonymous with freedom: no cables to tether you. Some wireless headsets can double as wired headsets, providing the best of both worlds.

However, the two main disadvantages of wireless headsets are price and battery life. Wired headsets, on the other hand, offer better sound quality and reliability without having to recharge them.

COMFORT is king!

Let’s be real: comfort is the real deal. Here’s what to consider.

When choosing earbuds, consider breathable materials that don’t compromise audio quality. Hybrid materials provide comfort but can wear out quickly. Avoid leather options: they can get hot and sweaty. Also consider the thickness and density of the foam, although it is difficult to judge this from the description.

The shape of the earcups (round or oval) affects comfort and fit. Round cups provide even pressure and good sound insulation, but can cause more heat and sweating. Oval earcups are more ergonomic and provide a better fit and airflow, but can create tension near the jaw. The removable and replaceable earpieces are a big plus. They allow for easy cleaning, replacement and even customization with different materials or shapes.

The balance between the weight of a helmet and the pressure it puts on your head plays a crucial role. A high clamping force can increase the perceived weight, while a lower force can make it lighter. If it’s too tight, try stretching it overnight on a box or pillow.

An ideal headband evenly distributes weight to avoid discomfort. Look for adjustable headbands with flexible hinges and soft foam padding for optimal comfort. Swivel joints improve fit and ease of transport, but they can reduce stability. If stability is your priority, it might be best to avoid them.

Cable noise can ruin your listening experience by transmitting the friction of the cable rubbing against your clothes or other objects directly to your earbud. Braided cables tend to amplify this noise.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to gaming headsets, it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, but remember that you get what you pay for. Buying a good gaming headset is an investment, so take your time, do your research, and choose wisely.

So, if you are on a budget, the Logitech G335 is your best choice. Need wireless freedom? Meet the Logitech G435. If you are an audiophile? Logitech PRO X is a level up. Finally, the Logitech G733 is for those who want to invest in something more substantial.

Good game!