Best gaming headphones 2022
Both experienced gamers and novice players need special headphones. They must be reliable so that you can fight for hours in battles. And have a surround sound that will immerse you in the virtual world and will not let you miss a single enemy movement. The best models of gaming headphones in 2022 – in the expert review of “KP”

In 2021, for the first time in history, a team won a prestigious international Dota 2 esports tournament and received $18,2 million in reward. The victory inspired gamers even more, and fewer and fewer parents began to resent that their children were sitting at the computer for hours. Jokes aside, but in esports, as in any sport, equipment is important. And the headphones have their rightful place here.

Why do you need gaming headphones? They really help win. The better the sound, the more likely it is to catch the opponent’s movement, get around him and, thereby, win the trophy. Often in the game (especially in “shooters”) you can hear how the opponent is walking, and it is important to catch which side. In some virtual missions, audio is an integral part of the mission.

Gaming headphones are comfortable. They are designed so that nothing distracts from the virtual battle. A long wire and a reliable braid – and now you are already traveling around on a chair in a room without fear of getting confused. As a rule, their protection is reliable, it doesn’t care about corners, rolling on a chair, pet teeth … In a word, they won’t break.

Finally, the headphones immerse you in virtual reality – surround sound creates the effect of being in the game. By the way, for this reason, many people like to watch movies in gaming headphones. Moreover, at a high quality level.

Most often, gaming headphones are an overhead design, full-size. They have good sound insulation. But the connection method is not important here. Wireless are good if you are ready to constantly monitor charging. It is worth paying attention to the microphone, because gamers often communicate with each other in the game.

In the description of the goods you can find terms such as “sound format 7.1 and “sound format 3D“. The 7.1 format applies not only to speakers, but also to headphones. Yes, 7.1 sound is seven speakers placed around the room and one subwoofer. And in headphones, this term is used for the most part as a marketing ploy. The manufacturer uses it to emphasize technologies that allow you to get surround sound quality. Naturally, there are no built-in “columns”. 

3D sound also exists in various gadgets and is used not only in home theater. Of course, as in the case of 7.1, this is not about speakers that are arranged along three perpendicular axes. And about high-quality surround sound, achieved with the help of technical and software manipulations.

Expert selection

For help, Healthy Food Near Me turned to Evgeny Filippov, who manages the network of interStore service centers. The expert chose the following model as the best one.

SteelSeries Arctis 9

SteelSeries Arctis 9 earphones – their quality justifies the high price. They sound professional, and handle games, music and movies equally well.

The headset is easy to use. It can be connected to two sound sources at once, for example, to play and listen to music from a smartphone. A separate wheel helps to balance between the volume of the game and chat.

The headphones have a powerful battery that allows you to actively play for 20 hours in a row.

The construction is solid and will last a long time. The kit includes ear pads, and the sound is controlled by a switch on the headphones. The retractable bi-directional noise-canceling microphone makes the sound perfect.

Main characteristics

Play frequency20 – 20000 Hz
Connection typewireless
ConnectorUSB
Wireless headset range12 m
Battery life20 hours
Equipmentheadset, USB charging cable, wireless transmitter

Advantages and disadvantages

Holds a charge well, excellent sound and noise isolation, there is support for Playstation and Bluetooth
Not everyone is comfortable with ear pads, you need to adjust the sound. If the battery is dead, the microphone cannot be used with a wired connection
show more

Top 10 best gaming headphones of 2022 according to KP

1. Logitech G Pro X Wireless

Voice transmission is a five-plus, they support Blue Voice technology – this is voice filtering when recording in real time. Thus, background noise is reduced, and the user’s voice becomes richer. As if broadcasting a TV presenter.

Attached is a rich set of interchangeable ear pads, a sound card, cables for connecting to different types of devices, and a case. The design is decent, suitable not only for eSports, but also appropriate for the office. The design is comfortable due to the adjustment and soft lining of the headband. The frame is metal, which means “indestructible”.  

They are configured using the G HUB proprietary control center, it can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website.

Separately, it is possible to note the speakers. They support surround sound, are also suitable for listening to music, and they are in the top of the best in the transfer of special effects in films and games. 

Main characteristics

Play frequency20 – 20000 Hz
Connection typewired
Connectormini jack 3.5 mm combo
Microphoneremovable
The weight320 g
Regulatorsvolume, mute the microphone

Advantages and disadvantages

Surround sound, quality construction, attractive design
Weak bass, settings get lost, buttons
show more

2. HyperX Cloud Flight S

The best wireless gaming headphones in the comparatively budget segment, gaming headphones with 7.1 sound. Provides 30 hours of active play without charging. You can use a cable. There are two connection methods – 3.5 mm and USB.

They have a folding design, so it is convenient to take them with you even in a small bag, and also store them – they will not take up much space.

Gives a loud clear sound. Soft ear cushions are comfortable and protect against extraneous sounds. The microphone is removable, with noise reduction. Headphones are compatible with many gadgets, including Xbox One and Playstation 4.

Main characteristics

Play frequency10 – 20000 Hz
MicrophoneYes, with noise reduction
The weight320 g

Advantages and disadvantages

Long battery life, wireless charging, microphone mute indicator
Sound quality through the microphone, there may be interference
show more

3. SteelSeries Arctis 7P

In short, this is a quality sound and a comfortable fit. The wireless headset is designed specifically for the PlayStation, but is perfectly compatible with PC, Android, Nintendo Switch. The sound is transmitted over a high-frequency radio channel, and a bidirectional microphone transmits the slightest breath of the player. 

It is comfortable in these headphones for many hours thanks to soft ear cushions made of branded material. In addition, the gamer does not interfere with the household. The headset has sound isolation, which does not let any noise into the outside world.

As a nice bonus – elastic bands with Velcro, the length is easily adjustable.

Charging allows you to play all day long. The main advantage of the model is its versatility. The included USB can be connected to your favorite device.

Main characteristics

Play frequency20 – 20000 Hz
MicrophoneYes, with noise reduction
Sensitivity98 dB

Advantages and disadvantages

There is an equalizer, attractive design, build quality and sound
Sound may be distorted at high volume
show more

4. Sennheiser G4ME ZERO

Gaming wired headphones with the best microphone. Closed stereo headset. It is important to know that this model does not have software, the headset is connected only through analog inputs.

The kit includes a case in which it is easy to carry or store the headphones. There are also two detachable cables for connecting the headset to different devices. But the microphone here is surprisingly not removable.

The ear pads are made of high-quality leatherette material, guarantees good sound insulation and does not wear out over time. 

Headphones have two mini jack connectors. The frequency range of the work is high, which indicates a professional level. The microphone in the model is built into the left bowl. To turn it off, just turn it to a vertical position. 

Main characteristics

Play frequency10 – 20000 Hz
Connector2 x mini jack 3.5 mm
MicrophoneYes, with noise reduction
Microphone frequency range50 – 16000 Hz
Additional cable1,2 m

Advantages and disadvantages

Good sound and noise isolation, light weight, excellent microphone
Build quality, uncomfortable cable, weak bass
show more

5. JBL Quantum One

Illuminated PC gaming headphones, wired with 3D sound.

A good package, which includes a 3.5 mm audio cable, a calibration microphone, a detachable directional microphone, windproof microphone foam and a USB adapter cable with game-chat balance adjustment.

The design is made of durable plastic. The control panel is located on the left cup. One of the features is the backlight. In the JBL Quantum Engine app, it can either be disabled or configured.

Good bass, high sounds are normal. The volume is not high, but it is enough for watching movies or playing games in a quiet place. There is an active noise cancellation feature.

Main characteristics

Play frequency20 – 40000 Hz
Microphone mountfixed
Sensitivity97 dB

Advantages and disadvantages

Quality build, good materials, comfortable fit
Not very good sound at maximum volume, settings may “fly off”
show more

6. Logitech G733

Good gaming headphones with backlight and fabric ear cushions. Multi-channel headset with good surround sound, “stuffing” allows you to call the model professional. There is a multi-colored RGB backlight that will “cheer up” the gamer. She reacts to sound. That is, it can be configured and it will give out certain sound reactions. 

The design has a memory property, that is, it takes the form of the player’s head, you can comfortably use them for a long time. The microphone is unidirectional, but with a volume control.

A wireless headset is also great for watching movies. Moreover, you can move around the apartment – the range is up to 20 meters.

The microphone in this model is of high quality, does not distort the voice and transmits even minor noises.

Main characteristics

Play frequency20 – 20000 Hz
Connection typewireless
ConnectorUSB
Detachable microphoneYes
The weight320 g
Wireless headset range20 m
Battery life29 hours

Advantages and disadvantages

Lightweight design, convenient on/off button, stylish design
The sound is normal, nothing special. There may be interference, a quiet microphone
show more

7. HyperX Cloud Orbit S

The best gaming headphones for PC: planar magnetic drivers, great sound. Headphones are wired. Please note that Bluetooth is not provided. Their distinguishing feature is that with a large size, which is just right for gamers, they are comfortable. The ear pads completely block out external noise. The cups are easy to turn, so the design is easy to fold.

Although the headset is wired, you need to charge via USB, because there is a built-in battery. And this “recharge” is needed if the headphones work through a mini-jack. If you connect to a phone or computer via USB, then the headphones are charged directly.

Sound quality, or rather its volume, is achieved with the support of 7.1 (eight-channel surround sound audio system) or Hi-Res Audio – high-resolution audio. These modes can be switched depending on the game. A feature of the model is tracking the position of the head and automatic sound adjustment. Coupled with 3D sound, the environment in the game is more than real.

Main characteristics

Play frequency10 – 50000 Hz
Connection typewith wire
ConnectorUSB / 2 x mini jack 3.5 mm
Detachable microphoneYes
Sensitivity120 dB
Noise canceling microphoneYes
Battery life10 hours

Advantages and disadvantages

High sound quality, convenient app control, built-in amplifier
Quiet microphone, plastic build, weak construction
show more

8. SteelSeries Arctis Pro USB

High-quality wired headphones with a microphone for gaming. The headset has speakers with high density magnets that are capable of reproducing sound almost twice the standard frequency range. The game becomes “alive”.

The headphones are equipped with special technology to synchronize lighting effects with all SteelSeries devices. The volume control is on the earpiece. You can completely disconnect the cable, you can also connect a regular cable with a 3,5 mm jack to the headset. The ear pads are easy to remove and are made of breathable material.

The design is made in a gaming style. Equipped with a bi-directional microphone with noise reduction function. The model is perfect for games that require precise positioning.

Main characteristics

Play frequency10 – 40000 Hz
Connection typewith wire
ConnectorUSB
Sensitivity102 dB
Noise canceling microphoneYes
FoldableYes

Advantages and disadvantages

High-quality sound, convenient design, additional sound settings in the application
The microphone can distort the voice, unreliable assembly, no carrying case
show more

9. HyperX Cloud Alpha S

The model has interchangeable ear pads with shape memory. There are no modern chips, such as lighting or software. However, the frame looks stylish and expensive, and most importantly, it is reliable due to the metal structure and the lack of “gloss”.

You can determine where the sound comes from in these headphones with accuracy. It is also easy to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the game. The model is also suitable for watching movies and streams.

The microphone does not distort the voice, suppresses extraneous noise. The microphone, by the way, is removable for the headphones, it can be installed in the most convenient position for yourself. Connect to the device using a cable with a universal 3,5 mm mini jack connector. The volume control is located on the wire.

The headphones support HyperX 7.1 technology, that is, surround sound and are compatible with Playstation 4.

Main characteristics

Play frequency13 – 27000 Hz
Connection typewith wire
Connectormini jack 3.5 mm combo
Sensitivity99 dB
Noise canceling microphoneYes

Advantages and disadvantages

Clear sound, comfortable fit, attractive appearance
Short cord, quiet microphone, inconvenient volume control
show more

10. Asus ROG Theta 7.1

There are no complaints about the sound quality. Surround audio is achieved thanks to the speakers. There are eight of them, and four more amplifiers. So the effect of reality in this model is on top, there is also intelligent noise reduction – adjustment to the surrounding reality.

However, the headphones are quite massive, but at the same time heavy-duty. The microphone is located on a removable leg, and the switched off microphone will signal with a backlight. The cable is additionally protected from kinks. Headphones can be controlled using ASUS Armory software.

Main characteristics

Play frequency20 – 40000 Hz
Microphone typedynamic
Microphone mountmobile

Advantages and disadvantages

Comfortable ear cushions, eight-channel surround sound, high-quality assembly
Heavy construction, software malfunctions, massive wires
show more

How to choose gaming headphones

Evgeny Filippov, manager of the network of interStore service centers, spoke about the intricacies of choosing gaming headphones and answered popular questions from readers.

Before you buy gaming headphones, look at such parameters as:

Construction, form

Choose headphones that have a dual headband design. Usually it is a metal “rim” and a soft lining under the head. Thus, the cups will fit snugly to the ears. Ear pads matter too. It is better to choose foam ones – they have a memory function, they are breathable.

Microphone

This element is very important, because in online games you often have to communicate with teammates. Sometimes and perform tasks where the “voice” is needed. Opt for a highly sensitive active noise canceling microphone.

TECH SPECS

Look for surround sound. So you get an advantage over your opponent, hearing even his distant steps in the rear. Choose headphones that emphasize low frequencies and have a sensitivity of at least 105 dB.

Popular questions and answers

How to connect gaming headphones to a computer?
There are several options:

— connection of headphones with a microphone via 3,5 jack. This is the headphone jack that connects to the phone;

— connection of a wireless headset, via bluetooth. This method is common for connecting to phones, but you can also connect to a computer;

– USB connection. Supported by all modern headphones with a microphone, relevant among fans of network games.

Headphones must be connected to the computer by color in the appropriate jacks. If you have a headset with one wire, and on the system unit you need a model with two, you need to buy an adapter. It will have an input for a combo jack, on the other hand – two outputs with plugs of different colors.

How to set up the microphone on gaming headphones?
To get to the settings press Win+S to open the menu; find the image of the “house”, select “Control Panel”, in the window that opens: Hardware and Sound – sound.

Some microphones are active by default – they do not need to be turned on, others need to be activated with a button or switch on the case or headphone wire. Press the button on the remote control and speak. When released, the device will turn off.

Leave a Reply