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I didn’t realize how much of a difference the right gaming headphones could make until I upgraded from a low-quality pair. Now, I consider many factors when buying new headphones. From exceptional sound quality and advanced controls to maximum comfort, here are the main factors I focus on.
1They Should Be Comfortable
Comfort is my top priority. Since I spend long hours gaming, I look for a lightweight design that distributes weight evenly tomake my gaming setup more comfortable. The clamping force should be balanced—it shouldn’t be so tight that it causes headaches or neck strain, nor so loose that the headset shifts every time I move.
I prefer over-ear headphones with padding surrounding my ears. They don’t touch my ears directly, making it easier to wear them for extended periods without strain. The ear cup design should conform to the shape of my ear. It should be breathable to prevent heat buildup, sweating, and soreness.
To ensure my new headset won’t cause discomfort, I prefer testing them in person at a store rather than buying them online.
2I Prefer Headphones With Both Wired and Wireless Options
To avoid the hassle ofchoosing between wired and wireless gaming headsets, I always buy headphones that offer both options. With wireless mode, I enjoy the freedom to stretch or move away from my desk without having to take off my headphones. It also allows me to switch between different gaming devices without having to plug and unplug them.
However, wireless mode does have one significant drawback: latency. There’s a slight audio delay, enough to miss enemy footsteps and get caught off guard. That’s why I also value the wired option, which doesn’t have this issue. I can also switch to a wired connection when the battery runs low, so I never have to cut my gaming session short.
3I Want a Sound Advantage in Games
For me, high-quality sound output is as important as having a low ping in shooting or battle royale games. Clear audio helps me detect and respond to subtle in-game cues, which can be the difference between winning or losing. That’s why sound quality is arguably one of the most important factors I consider when buying new headphones.
I look for headphones with excellent spatial audio and surround sound capabilities to hear enemy footsteps, gauge their direction, and pinpoint gunshots.
Since effective communication with my teammates is also important, I look for headphones with a balanced sound profile that ensures game audio doesn’t drown out voice chat. Also, I prefer closed-back headphones to avoid disturbing my family members when gaming in the same room.
4A Good Quality Mic With Noise Canceling Capability
Given the importance of clear communication with my team, Ilook for a top-tier micthat filters out background noise and picks up my voice loud and clear. I don’t want my friends to be distracted by the hum of my PC, the clatter of a mechanical keyboard, or any ambient noise from outside my room while we’re coordinating an ambush.
A high-quality microphone with noise-canceling capability addresses this need. The microphone should also be detachable so that I can remove it while playing single-player games. Additionally, based on past experiences with microphones that became loose after a few months, I now focus on durability and choose a mic that’s built to last.
5Aesthetics Are Non-Negotiable for Me
I want my headphones to be something I’m proud to show off during streams or while gaming with friends. Therefore, aesthetics are non-negotiable for me.
When searching for new headphones, I don’t just focus on top-notch specs—I also look for a design that stands out. Details like the shape of the ear cups, the design of the headband, the quality of the finish, the color scheme, and features like RGB lighting all affect my purchase decision. Also, I make sure the headset complements the theme of my overall gaming setup.
Since I spend many hours at my gaming desk each week, I want my headphones toimprove the visual appeal of my space.
6A Sturdy Build Is Important
I want my headphones to be durable enough to withstand accidental drops, frequent adjustments, and everyday use. That’s why I look for models made from high-quality materials. The headband should be sturdy enough to maintain its shape and avoid cracking over time. I also check for any rough edges or poorly glued parts.
Hinges must be strong for regular adjustments, and all joints should stay secure without loosening. For wired headphones, I prefer a braided cable that resists damage and prevents fraying. Before making a purchase, I ensure the headphones are built to last so that I can be confident that my money is well spent.
7On-Device Controls and Customization
I also value having a range of on-device controls with my headphones. I prefer headphones that include both volume and microphone controls. While volume control allows me to adjust the sound easily, a flip-to-mute switch lets me quickly silence my microphone if someone unexpectedly enters my room and starts talking.
I like a bass-heavy audio profile for action games but switch to a more balanced sound for strategy games. I always buy headphones that let me switch between different audio profiles or create custom ones according to my preferences. While these features might seem minor, they significantly improve my gaming experience.
8Value For Money
The more advanced features, better design, and higher build quality a headphone has, the more expensive it tends to be.
Finding the right balance between cost and quality has always been challenging. I used to shop for new headphones and often ended up spending more than necessary. Now, I set a clear maximum budget before shopping, which helps me choose headphones with balanced features that fit my budget.
I prefer buying from reputable brands, even if they are more expensive, and I always evaluate whether the features offered at that price are worth it before making a purchase.
Buying a new gaming headset can be challenging, especially if you’re on a limited budget. I hope my insights into what I look for in new headphones help guide your search. I recommend you find different models that meet your needs and choose the one that best fits your preferences. Don’t forget to check out our picks for thebest budget gaming headsets.
