To truly immerse oneself in a video game, it is essential to use high-quality hardware. One of the most crucial pieces of equipment is undoubtedly your headphones. With the correct set of headphones, you can hear every detail of the game’s audio, from the subtle footsteps of an approaching enemy to the booming explosions of a battle. In this article, we’ll discuss best over ear headphones, the features to consider when choosing the best headphones for gaming, and the pros and cons of each headphone option.
What are over-ear headphones?
Over-ear headphones are a type of headphone that fully encloses the ear. They are designed to create a seal around the ear to block out external noise and provide a more immersive listening experience. Over-ear headphones come in various sizes, shapes, and prices, and many gamers use them to get the most out of their games.
Features to consider when choosing the best over-ear headphones
- Sound quality
Sound quality is essential when choosing the best over-ear headphones for gaming. A great pair of headphones should provide a clear, detailed sound with a wide frequency range and minimal distortion. Use headphones with at least 20Hz-20kHz frequency response and low impedance for power efficiency. Additionally, headphones with surround sound technology, such as Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, can provide a more immersive gaming experience.
- Comfort
Comfort is another crucial factor to consider when choosing over-ear headphones for gaming. Because of the length of time, your headphones will be in use, they should be as comfortable as possible for prolonged amounts of time spent using them. Look for headphones with adjustable headbands, ear cups designed to fit comfortably around the ears, and breathable materials that won’t cause your ears to overheat.
- Noise cancellation
Noise cancellation is a feature that can block out external noise and distractions, allowing you to immerse yourself in the game world fully. If you want to drown out ambient noise, you should choose a pair of headphones that include active noise-cancellation technology.
- Microphone
A built-in microphone is a must-have feature if you plan on using your headphones for multiplayer gaming or voice chats. It is best to choose headphones with a high-quality microphone to avoid having your speech picked up distorted or obscured by surrounding noise.
Pros and cons of each headphone option
- Wired over-ear headphones
Pros:
- In most cases, the sound quality is superior to that of wireless headphones
- Don’t require charging
- It can be more affordable than wireless headphones
- Don’t suffer from wireless interference or latency issues
Cons:
- It can be less convenient to use than wireless headphones
- It can be more restrictive in terms of movement and range
- Can get tangled or caught on objects
- Wireless over-ear headphones
Pros:
- Offer more convenience and freedom of movement than wired headphones
- Can connect to multiple devices simultaneously
- It can offer advanced features, such as touch controls and voice assistants
- Can provide long battery life
Cons:
- May suffer from wireless interference or latency issues
- It can be more expensive than wired headphones
- It may not offer the same level of sound quality as wired headphones
- Require charging
- Gaming-specific over-ear headphones
Pros:
- Designed specifically for gaming, with features such as surround sound and customizable EQ settings
- Can offer advanced features, such as RGB lighting and haptic feedback
- It may come with additional accessories, such as a carrying case or extra ear pads
- Often come with a built-in microphone for voice chat
Cons:
- They can be more expensive than non-gaming headphones
- It may not offer the same level of sound quality as non-gaming headphones
- It may not be suitable for non-gaming use
Conclusion
Choosing the best over-ear headphones for gaming depends on your needs and preferences. When deciding, consider factors such as sound quality, comfort, noise cancellation, and microphone quality. Whether you choose wired or wireless headphones or gaming-specific headphones, the correct set can significantly enhance your gaming experience and provide a more immersive and enjoyable experience.