A gaming headset is one of the most important tools in any gamer’s arsenal that can make or break a match. As you shall see in this article, it’s not just about great audio quality; a gaming headset has much more to add to a great gaming experience.
We know it can be daunting to select the best gaming headsets, given the sheer number of choices available. We’ve done the hard work for you and handpicked the best ones for a delightful and detailed audio experience to elevate your games. Let’s dive right in.
It’s easy to confuse headphones and headsets. They both have similar form factors and go over your head, cushioning the speakers over your ears. However, a headset also includes a microphone to collaborate with your peers in multiplayer games or to simply record or stream your voice.
While gaming headsets are more versatile than headphones, the microphone quality leaves much to be desired if you’re after professional results. In the latter case, it’s better to choose a headset with a detachable mic, or, better still, use a headphone and a dedicated studio-quality microphone.
The types of gaming headsets: which kind of audio experience do you prefer?
Several different types of gaming headsets are available today depending on your requirements, and the kind of games you play.
Wired gaming headsets: These headsets connect to your gaming device (PC, console, or mobile) with a cable. These are among the most affordable gaming headsets available and promise highly robust and reliable connections without interruptions and interference.
Wireless gaming headsets: These headsets use a wireless network like Bluetooth or wireless 2.4 GHz to connect to your gaming device. Bluetooth gaming headsets are very portable and are a great choice for those who like to game on the move. They’re also ideal for those who wish to keep their gaming workspace clutter-free. The advantage comes at a price, for wireless headsets always have a latency, however small, that can sometimes make your game visuals and sound appear out of sync.
Noise-cancelling gaming headsets: If you’re seeking rich and immersive soundscapes, noise-cancelling headsets are your best bet. They’ll isolate external noises and ensure you always hear detailed and punchy sounds.
VR gaming headsets: If you’re into VR gaming, you might want to consider specialised VR gaming headsets which have integrated headphones to fully immerse you into the metaverse.
Surround sound gaming headphones: These headphones are built with multiple speakers to create hyper-realistic surround sound effects. It’s easy to follow even the slightest sounds, like someone’s faint footsteps, in 3D space.
Specs to consider to shortlist the best gaming headset
Let’s now take a look at some of the most important specs to watch out for when purchasing a gaming headset.
Frequency response
This is the range of frequencies the headset can faithfully reproduce and is measured in Hz (hertz). Our ears are sensitive to frequencies from 20 Hz to 20 KHz, and good gaming headsets can have frequency responses going all the way from 10 Hz up to 40 KHz for a broader soundscape.
Audio drivers
The drivers are the actual sound-producing elements within the headset speakers. In general, the larger the driver diameter (measured in mm), the better the sound quality. The number and type of drivers matter too.
Sensitivity
This refers to how loud a sound a headset can generate for a given amount of power fed to it and is measured in decibels (dB). Headsets with higher sensitivities are ideal if you need louder sound levels or need to listen to the faintest sounds.
Latency
This is the amount of time between when the sound is produced at your PC or gaming console and when it is actually produced by the headset. A wireless gaming headset will have a measurably large latency delay, which means you might notice discrepancies between game visuals and sounds. Wired headsets are better if you need an absolutely precise sync between video and audio.
Noise cancellation
This is a technology that creates an optimal environment by blocking out all external noises and sounds so you only hear the intended sound signals from your game. If you often play games in busy environments like offices, coffee shops, or airport lounges, consider investing in a headset with superior noise-cancelling technology for the best experience.
Microphone quality
Since headsets have an integrated microphone, consider if the audio quality is crisp enough. Many headset mics offer poor sound, which can be a hindrance if you’re wanting to stream your voice in pristine quality. Detachable mics are also a great option, as they add versatility to your headset. Finally, look for headsets with noise-cancelling mics for noise-free voice capture.
Impedance
This is a measure of the amount of power that’s needed to drive your headset speakers. The larger the impedance (measured in ohms), the more power needed to produce a loud sound. A professional headphone will often have a high impedance and need amplifiers to function.
Compatibility
It’s important to ensure your gaming headset is compatible with the gaming console, PC, or smartphone you’re using to play games.
The best gaming headsets in India for beginners and pros
If you’re looking for the best gaming headset with a mic to immerse yourself right into the game and collaborate with your squadmates, we’ve handpicked the best models right here.
HyperX Cloud Stinger Core - Gaming Headset is ideal for amateur gamers who need rich audio quality to elevate their gameplay. The headset packs powerful 40 mm neodymium magnet-based audio drivers secured within a closed-cup design to keep external noises at a minimum.
The headset delivers virtual 7.1 surround sound with the NGENUITY software from HyperX for realistic soundscapes to complement your games. It also supports DTS® Headphone:X® for a truly dynamic and cinematic spatial sound. The mic delivers great voice quality too, thanks to built-in noise-cancelling technology.
The headset features dedicated in-line audio controls to conveniently adjust the volume, and mute the microphone without having to navigate complex system menus. There’s an even easier way to mute the microphone when it’s not needed - simply flip the swivelling mic up.
Use the 1.3 mm long 3.5 mm cable to connect it to your PC, PS5™, PS4™, Xbox One™, Xbox Series X|S™, Nintendo Switch™, and Mac. The headset is very lightweight, weighing just 215 g, with soft and breathable cushions for a comfortable and secure fit over your ears.
HyperX Cloud Alpha S - Gaming Headset is a power-packed monster that delivers uncompromising sounds that blow other headsets out of the water. You get HyperX 7.1 surround sound for immersive gameplay with the added ability to adjust the bass to personalise the sound quality to your liking. Like punchy bass? Set the bass adjustment slider to the high bass setting. The headset works with the NGENUITY software to automatically deliver optimised sound based on the games you play.
You can activate 7.1 surround sound, control volume, and mute the mic using the dedicated buttons on the headset controller. The headset also features HyperX dual chamber drivers, which segregate base frequencies for a distinctive audio experience with minimal distortion.
The leatherette ear cushions are breathable for superior comfort and you can swap them with fabric cushions when needed. The headset is made with a durable aluminium frame. The built-in mic has noise-cancelling technology for great voice quality. What’s more, the microphone is TeamSpeak™ and Discord certified, so you know it’s perfect to collaborate with your squad.
The microphone and headset cable are both detachable. The headset connects over a USB connection and is compatible with PC, PS5, and PS4.
HyperX Cloud Core + 7.1 - Gaming Headset supports DTS Headphone:X audio for realistic sound effects and 3D immersion to enrich your gaming experience. You get 53 mm dynamic drivers for powerful and crisp audio. It is a great choice for both entry-level and serious gamers looking for a budget-friendly option with all the bells and whistles of high-end designs.
The headset has comfortable ear cushions for long and intense gaming sessions. The headset feels quite solid and robust; the durable aluminium frame adds sturdiness and balance to the design. The headset connects over the standard 3.5 mm connection and is compatible with PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, and PS5.
The microphone features noise-cancelling technology for clear and interference-free audio and is TeamSpeak and Discord certified.
HyperX CloudX Stinger Core - Gaming Headset is best for Xbox gamers seeking punchy audio at a very affordable price. The headset is Microsoft tested and approved and will directly connect to your Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles via the 3.5 mm port.
You can control the volume, and mute the microphone using in-line controls on the headset itself. The noise-cancelling microphone can be swivelled up when not needed. Enjoy accurate sounds with 40 mm drivers custom-tuned for console gaming, providing a richer bass experience every time.
OMEN Blast Headset is for pros who need true class-leading performance, which is the hallmark of OMEN. The headset features a powerful 24-bit DAC (digital-to-analog converter) for extremely detailed audio output. Hear your enemy’s footsteps or experience vibrant soundscapes with 7.1 surround sound for 360-degree spatial awareness.
The headset has a broad frequency response spanning the entire human audible spectrum from 20 Hz to 20 KHz. With 95 dB sensitivity, it has 53 mm drivers with neodymium magnets for crystal-clear audio reproduction.
The suspension headband has ergonomic padding for comfortable wearing during enduring sessions. The audio cable has a no-look volume and mute adjustment for convenient controls.
The headset has USB and 3.5 mm ports for seamless connectivity and is compatible with Windows, iMac, and gaming consoles (without DAC), including PS4, Xbox One (voice and audio), and Nintendo Switch (audio only).
Enjoy the ultimate audio advantage
When purchasing a gaming headset, make sure you consider the sound quality, compatibility, mic quality, and noise isolation. A good gaming headset will be a faithful companion through moments of triumph, complementing cinematic gaming experiences on screen for many years to come.
About the Author: Vidhu Jain is a contributing writer for HP Tech Takes. A Fortune 500 experienced brand storyteller, she’s a voracious reader who loves travelling and exploring the world.