That doesn't mean you have to give up the best sound quality: we've done extensive research and rounded up the best in-ear headphones for gaming so you can make an informed decision about what best suits your desires and budget.
Over the past few years, we've seen how popular mobile gaming has become. Nintendo released the Switch, Valve announced the Steam Deck, and traditional handheld consoles continue to sell like hotcakes, as well as incredibly popular mobile games like Pokemon Go.
So what does this mean?
In short, more and more people are looking for headphones that can be used for gaming on the go. In-ear headphones are popular - they're more portable than over-ear headphones, but the problem is that not all models are worth the money.
Before we get into our product reviews, we'd like to talk a little about in-ear headphones. They are deceptively simple, and many people think that because they are so small, there isn't much difference between the devices.
The truth is that there are a number of different things that separate high-quality in-ear headphones from the pairs you'll find in a regular store.
How to choose the right in-ear headphones
To clear things up, we've created a short guide explaining some of the things you should pay attention to before purchasing a new pair of headphones.
Frequency range
Most pairs of headphones that cost 1200 rubles or more will have frequency characteristics indicated (usually on the packaging). So what does this really mean?
Well, simply put, it shows the range of sounds that headphones can reproduce accurately and without distortion. 20 Hz - 20 kHz is a fairly standard frequency response (this is also the range of human hearing for most people), but a wider range does not mean a better product.
There are a number of other factors, including the headphone's sound profile, impedance, and drivers, that affect sound quality. For this reason, we recommend trying headphones wherever possible.
Sound profile
When someone talks about the sound profile of a product, what they are talking about is sound reproduction. For example, if you had a pair of headphones that have large drivers and heavily emphasize bass frequencies, you could say that they had a bass-heavy sound profile.
The products that work best usually have a very balanced profile that doesn't fluctuate too much at either end of the spectrum. Ideally, you want strong bass and highs with a sweet spot in between so that no sounds are drowned out. Pretty simple, right?
Unfortunately, there's no real way to know a product's profile without listening to it, so it's worth doing your due diligence - asking around, trying to find a video of the product playing music, maybe even making a trip to the store. If it saves you from buying a bad pair of headphones, it's worth it.
Noise Isolation vs Noise Canceling
We've all had a terrible pair of headphones, right? You turn on the music, but the sound keeps leaking out and everyone around you hears what you are playing at one time or another. Or perhaps it's the other way around - you're trying to concentrate on something, but even if you turn on music, you can still hear what's going on around you.
There are two ways headphones can handle this. They may have sound insulation or noise reduction.
Basically, noise-isolating headphones create a tighter seal in the ear. This virtually cancels out the sound of the outside world.
Noise-canceling headphones, on the other hand, use a microphone to listen to the noise around you. They apply the opposite audio signal to the sounds you hear.
This effectively eliminates external noise so you only hear the sound you want. Because of all the extra software and technology that comes with headphones, they tend to be a little more expensive than noise-isolating headphones, but if you can't afford to be distracted, this might be a good idea.
Which gaming headphones are best to buy?
Depending on the type of mount, gaming headphones are divided into full-size and “droplets” (plugs). There is still debate in the eSports world about which ones are better. CS:GO players have come up with a solution - they simply use both types at the same time. It is better not to take wireless headphones for gaming. Yes, they are convenient, but the speed of sound is slightly delayed, and in esports sometimes fractions of seconds matter. Wired models are ideal for gamers, but it is important that the cable length is at least 2 m. An extension cord included is welcome. It is advisable that the cord be removable in case it needs to be replaced.
The main characteristics for gaming ears are the same as for any good headphones:
- Reproducible frequency range. A person is able to hear sounds with a frequency from 18 Hz to 20 kHz, that is, headphones must work in this range, and if the threshold values exceed these limits, you have a really good model.
- Sensitivity. Roughly speaking, this is the volume of the reproduced signal. The higher the dB number, the louder the headphones will be. Gaming models should have a sensitivity in the range of 90-120 dB.
- Impedance. The higher the AC resistance of the headphones, the better the sound quality. However, to drive high-impedance devices, you need a powerful signal source (a good sound card, for example). Usually, it is enough for gaming “ears” to have an impedance of 16-32 Ohms.
Best Budget In-Ear Headphones for Gaming
Let us share a secret with you: there is a difference between cheap headphones and budget headphones. What?
Cheap headphones are for those who don't care about sound quality, while budget headphones are a great compromise.
Sure, you can buy a pair of headphones for a few hundred rubles, but more often than not they will sound terrible and break within a few weeks. Conversely, all of the in-ear headphones below are available for less than RUB 1,200 and are excellent for this price point.
Ritmix RH-428BTH
The Ritmix RH-428BTH headphones connect via Bluetooth, fit securely inside the ear, and even have a built-in slot for a memory card, which allows you to turn them into a standalone music player.
They lack playback volume, but at the same time the sound quality is very acceptable.
You should only use this model for gaming if you have no other options left, but its price outweighs most of the disadvantages.
Koss The Plug
These headphones have an unusual name and an even more unusual appearance. Koss The Plug earbuds are designed with a conical shape and are designed to provide a secure seal without the need for multiple sizes of silicone tips.
The model has memory foam earbuds, but they definitely have a downside: they are too loose and can be uncomfortable.
The headphones have a slightly higher frequency response than other budget options, but only by ten hertz (10 Hz-20 kHz). However, the device wins in volume. The earbuds are capable of outputting 112dB, but we don't recommend it. They have a nice sound profile, with fairly even highs and lows.
Philips SHE3590BK/28
The headphones have a nice, simple design, and as a bonus, there are seven color variations.
These in-ear headphones have a very strong mid-range and exceptional highs. The bass is a little muted, but still punchy enough to breathe some life into your favorite tracks.
There's no microphone or in-line controls, but given the price range, you wouldn't want to rely on communicating with teammates while gaming. When you're spending $1,000 on headphones, the last thing you want is for some of that money to go towards a fairly mediocre microphone.
Panasonic ErgoFit RP-HJE120
While the look of these hard plastic headphones leaves something to be desired, they come in nine different colors and hold up very well despite the budget price.
The low frequencies are a bit suppressed during bass-heavy tracks, but the sound is fairly clear in the highs without drowning out anything in the midrange.
The only downside is that the cable is very thin and doesn't seem to last very long. However, the headphones have an L-shaped jack. Not only does this help prevent damage caused by excessive pressure on the connector, but it also means that the cable will fit more naturally to the game console controller.
Both this model and the Phillips have a fairly standard frequency response of 20Hz - 20kHz, but you really can't find anything better in this price range.
SVEN E-290M
SVEN E-290M continues the selection of inexpensive headphones. Despite the modest price, they are able to offer the owner many advantages, including an aluminum case, a flat cable, replaceable ear pads and a control panel.
In terms of sound, they cannot boast of outstanding quality, but they fulfill their price tag one hundred percent.
CROWN MICRO CMGH-21 00
4.7/5
101 reviews
Buy Yandex Market
average price
2,030 rub.
Characteristics
- Connection type: wired.
- Cable length: 3.2 m.
- Interface: USB
- Frequency range (headphones): 20–20000 Hz.
- Impedance (headphones): 32 ohms
- Sensitivity (headphones): 40 dB.
Sixth place is taken by CROWN MICRO CMGH-21 00 . Popular budget headphones impress with their decent workmanship and interesting features that are not typical for this price segment. in stores for about 2,000 rubles . The sound reproduction frequencies declared by the manufacturer do not lag behind their classmates - from 20 to 20,000 Hz. The sound quality is acceptable - according to user reviews, nothing wheezes or squeaks at high frequencies . However, the sound cannot boast of depth and strong bass. The microphone performs well in communication and online games, but some users lack its sensitivity.
A 7.1 virtual audio system is announced, which may be important for fans of competitive gaming . What CROWN MICRO can really surprise you with is its design. The headphones are made of decent plastic, have LED backlighting and generally look more expensive than their actual cost. There are as many as four colors available on the market. The headphones are connected to the PC via USB, which is very convenient. However, for full use you will have to install the driver. The cable is three meters long and protected by a fabric braid. It also houses a control panel with volume control and a microphone switch.
The headset turned out to be comfortable, although buyers complain about the material of the pads, in which the ears begin to sweat from the heat. The headphones sit loosely on the head. The disadvantages include the features of LED backlighting. Not only is it impossible to configure it, but the diodes also do not turn off after turning off the PC (this prevents many people from sleeping at night, for example). The only way to put your headphones to sleep is to physically disconnect them from the computer.
Pros:
- Design.
- Braided cable with remote control.
- Backlight.
- Connection via USB.
Minuses:
- Lining material.
- The need to install a driver.
- The backlight does not turn off.
These headphones surprised us with their quality, because their cost is very modest. Features like virtual 7.1 sound and backlighting are completely uncharacteristic for the budget segment - you can consider them as a cheaper alternative to headphones from Bloody or SWEN.
Reviews on Yandex.Market
Best Mid-Range In-Ear Headphones
If your budget is a little larger, you can take advantage of the improved sound quality by purchasing one of the mid-range pairs of in-ear headphones. We've selected some amazing models, all of which offer exceptional sound and, best of all, are affordable.
Logitech G333
The Logitech G333 is one of the best budget in-ear gaming headphones.
This model is compatible with PCs, mobile devices and modern consoles, supports connection using a 3.5 mm plug and a USB-C adapter, is equipped with specially designed dual diffusers for transmitting all frequency spectrums and a high-quality microphone with convenient volume control.
In addition, the headphones fit comfortably in the ear, and the aluminum body ensures durability. They only lack the noise reduction function, but otherwise they are an ideal option for gaming.
Sennheiser CX 5.00G
These headphones actually come in two colors (black and white) and have specific options depending on whether you'll be using an Android or iOS device.
This is because this model has a built-in controller with three buttons, as well as a main microphone. We were very impressed with the appearance of this product: the headphones look much more expensive than they actually are thanks to the premium aluminum body.
You get what you pay for, right?
In fact, the headphones have sound quality that far exceeds what you can expect from a product in this price range.
Music sounds bright at high power and smooth at low power. Obviously, the bass isn't as solid as on more expensive headsets, but we found that while it doesn't overpower the music, these headphones have pretty good balance.
Klispch R6i
These headphones have a very simplistic design, but since the body is made of plastic (in black or white options), the Klispch is worth spending a little more for the sound aspect.
This is true: the headphones have a bright, natural sound that breathes new life into acoustic tracks. The different instruments remain clearly distinguishable even at high volumes, and there is very little distortion.
The only real problem with this model is the cable. It is quite wide and covered with rubber, which causes the headphones to get tangled too often. They have a cable clamp to help minimize this problem, but it's still quite annoying.
Nevertheless, for less than 4,500 rubles, the sound in these headphones is very impressive. If looks aren't that important, the R6i is a good choice.
How to choose the best gaming headset for yourself
Choosing the best gaming headset depends on several criteria. In any case, the headset should be comfortable and provide good gaming sound. In fact, the former is more important than the latter. Even if your headset produces poor audio quality, you can still hear what's happening in your game. But if it's even slightly uncomfortable, you'll want to rip it off your head after about half an hour, and that's not conducive to playing any games.
The next thing to consider is whether you want a wired or wireless model. Wireless models are almost always more expensive, but the convenience of living wirelessly can be worth it. Generally speaking, wireless headsets compatible with PC and PS4 are not compatible with Xbox One, and vice versa, so a headset with 3.5mm connectivity may be useful in this case.
The best TWS headphones
Recently, TWS (true wireless stereo) headphones have become widespread. They are not connected by wire, which makes their use more comfortable, they work in pairs with each other as a stereo headset (in some models, each earphone can work independently), and are powered by the included charging case.
With the development of this segment of audio equipment, headsets have appeared that accommodate powerful speakers in a small body, support noise reduction and are equipped with gaming modes. We will talk about the best of them below.
Razer Hammerhead True Wireless Series
The well-known manufacturer of gaming peripherals has a whole series of TWS headphones called Hammerhead, which includes three models: the top-end Razer Hammerhead True Wireless Pro, the mid-range Razer Hammerhead True Wireless and the budget Razer Hammerhead True Wireless X.
Each has its own unique features: for example, the Hammerhead TW Pro is THX certified, which means it produces the highest quality sound. And the Hammerhead TW X is equipped with backlighting.
Finally, all of these headsets support Game Mode: it increases battery consumption, but significantly reduces audio latency, so you can play on mobile devices and PCs, watch streaming videos, without experiencing a lag between the sound and the image.
Bloody M70
The gaming brand Bloody has recently started releasing TWS headphones equipped with a low latency gaming mode, made in an aggressive gaming design and providing good sound at an affordable price tag.
The Bloody M70 model is just one of these: it has good sound and picture synchronization, a stable Bluetooth connection, high-quality membranes in the speakers and decent battery life. A good offer for those who want to play on a smartphone with maximum comfort.
Bloody M90
Bloody M90 is the senior model in the brand’s line of TWS gaming headsets.
It boasts active noise cancellation, Bluetooth 5.1 support, intuitive touch controls, ergonomic design, water and dust resistance and, of course, a gaming mode with minimal latency.
JBL TUNE 125 TWS
The JBL TUNE 125 TWS demonstrates advantages in several ways.
Firstly, the model boasts good battery life of up to 32 hours.
Secondly, it has excellent sound, which is further enhanced with the Pure Bass function. Thirdly, you have a wide choice of colors available to you, from strict black to compromise white, outstanding blue and soft pink.
In addition, the headphones quickly connect to your smartphone, have low sound latency and look very stylish.
Best In-Ear Gaming Headphones with Mic
What separates a good pair of in-ear gaming headphones from a great pair is the microphone. There are a lot of products with a device that can be considered a standard microphone.
However, we know that for many, “good enough” is simply not good enough. That's why we found the best options.
Brainwavz Delta Silver
First up we have Brainwavz Delta Silver. This is an inexpensive pair of headphones priced at less than RUB 2,000. Despite this, they actually do a pretty good job in terms of sound quality and here's why:
They do well in the high frequencies, but the bass is quite dull.
The controls provided are quite simple: a regular play/pause button and a volume control button. Both Android and iOS versions are available, so you'll need to make sure you choose the right version.
The built-in microphone is of above average quality and transmits voice well. There's some slight distortion or crackling that built-in microphones are known for, but it's usable for gaming.
Each earbud has its own cable, and they're well separated to minimize the risk of tangling, which is great.
1MORE Triple Driver In-Ears
The 1MORE Triple Driver In-Ears include everything you'd expect from an affordable pair of headphones.
They have a pleasant sound profile that excels in the midrange and provides very little boost in the low frequencies. In addition, there is an additional driver: it allows you to play very loud music, while the sound remains as clear as possible.
The cable leading to the splitter is covered in fabric for added durability, but the individual headphone cables are covered in plastic.
This is a small minus, but it does not affect the sound quality. The built-in controls feel a little cheap, which is pretty bad considering how often they're used. The microphone on this model is great and doesn't seem to pick up too much outside noise.
SVEN AP-U980MV
4.5/5
223 reviews
Buy Yandex Market
average price
RUB 2,490
Characteristics
- Connection type: wired.
- Cable length: 2.2 m
- Interface: USB.
- Frequency range (headphones): 20–20000 Hz.
- Frequency range (microphone): 30–10000 Hz.
- Sensitivity (headphones): 108 dB.
Second place goes to SVEN AP-U980MV . The budget headset from SVEN is now of particular interest among users. At a price of about 2,500 rubles, it boasts an excellent design and good assembly. The sound quality is not satisfactory: there is soft bass and no interference at high frequencies. For optimal operation of the headset, it is recommended to download its driver from the manufacturer’s website . A 7.1 sound circuit has been implemented, which, according to customer reviews, is quite functional and useful in games. The microphone works conscientiously, producing clear sound without noise or distortion.
The headset is made of fairly hard plastic, the headband is upholstered with a thick pad of artificial leather with filler. The headphones are assembled tightly and feel reliable, despite the plastic case . The device looks impressive, because it has LED backlighting. The design combines black and blue colors. On the left earpiece there is a volume control and a microphone mute button . The headset is connected via USB. The cable was braided, its length was as much as two meters.
Buyers criticize the device for the inability to turn off the backlight - this is a typical “disease” of all similar budget headsets. And the weight of the headphones is 365 grams - some people find it uncomfortable to wear such a headset on their head.
Pros:
- Sound quality.
- Long braided cord.
- USB connection.
Minuses:
- The backlight does not turn off.
- Impressive weight.
A very successful headset with no obvious serious flaws . Its closest analogue and competitor can be considered the Bloody G530: it benefits from the metal parts of the body, but weighs even more. In addition, it loses due to a cable without a winding and an inconvenient microphone with an LED.
Reviews on Yandex.Market
Best Wireless In-Ear Headphones for Gaming
It seems like everyone has been in this situation. You're in the middle of a crazy game, but your headphone cord is tangled up with your controller's charging cable!
Well, you don't have to put up with it anymore. We've found the best pairs of affordable wireless in-ear headphones to make sure this never happens again.
HyperX Cloud Buds Wireless
HyperX Cloud Buds Wireless are suitable for both gaming and outdoor activities.
Their bright colors are eye-catching, and the hard rim improves ergonomics, preventing the headphones from slipping off your neck. 14mm speakers provide powerful sound, and the battery lasts for 10 hours of continuous play.
With this model, you can listen to music, play games and communicate via voice, and in any case you will get impressive sound quality.
Beats Beats X Wireless
Like all headphones from Beats, these headphones are quite expensive and cost about 10 thousand rubles. The sound quality is excellent, but it makes up for the increased price. So what do they sound like?
The headset is fairly well balanced across all frequency ranges, and while the sound at maximum isn't as clear as we'd like, it's definitely a good performance.
They have very fast charging times. A five-minute charge provides about two hours of playback, and a full charge provides up to eight hours of continuous use.
Unfortunately, these earbuds are not very good at sealing out noise, so you may hear outside sounds in them.
Regardless, we wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone who plays for long periods of time.
Samsung Level U Pro
Next up is the Samsung Level U Pro. What's especially interesting is that the earbuds are magnetized and can stick to each other when not in use.
The headphones support the high ranges, actually boosting them slightly. Bass is also solid and never overwhelms the midrange, which is great.
If you are a fan of really explosive tracks, this model is not very suitable, but overall we are satisfied.
What about customization? Well, this point is only really relevant if you love gaming on an Android device, but you can download the free Level U app to expand the experience even further.
The add-on allows you to control the volume and use the equalizer to shift the treble a bit if you so choose. A full charge provides about nine hours of use, which is a decent result.
Jaybird X3
Finally we have the Jaybird X3. They're designed for athletes, but there are a few features that make the headset great for gaming, too.
Firstly, there are fasteners as well as a cable shortener so you can minimize the risk of getting tangled.
Good news for music lovers!
These headphones focus on low and high frequencies. This means that the mids can sometimes seem a little weak, but for situations with bass or vocals (like gaming) they work very well.
Considering the approximate price of 9,000 rubles, the Jaybird X3s are very good, and rarely suffer from disconnection - a common problem with wireless headphones. There is also an additional mobile app for iOS and Android that allows you to use the equalizer.
We liked that they save the last used sound profile - meaning you can find the perfect balance and then never have to worry about it again.
All of the above headphones have a built-in microphone, but they are all fairly standard. The focus here is on the wireless connectivity rather than the microphone itself, which is to be expected.
Best Premium In-Ear Gaming Headphones
If your budget allows for high-end devices, why not invest in a pair of headphones that provide the best possible sound quality?
We have recommendations in this segment, and we are confident that any of them will suit you.
Sennheiser CX 400BT
The high cost of the Sennheiser CX 400BT is justified by the brand's proprietary quality.
Everything here works to ensure that the user feels comfortable when using: from the anatomical shape developed by Sennheiser engineers to support for a large number of codecs, a built-in equalizer and a convenient application for settings.
Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 2
Considering the consistent quality of Sennheiser products, it is not surprising that devices from this brand are located in the premium headphone segment.
The Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 2 are TWS headphones with audiophile 7mm drivers that reproduce a wide range of sounds as clearly as possible, providing the listener with a detailed audio scene.
There is also active noise cancellation, high-capacity batteries, touch controls and a well-developed application in which you can fine-tune the sound of the headset.
Bose Quiet Comfort 20s
Bose is known for making fantastic headphones, and this model is no exception.
They have built-in noise canceling technology, so you can play in the noisiest environments and still hear everything very clearly.
They operate equally at all frequencies. The headphones allow each range to be clearly visible. What does it mean?
Essentially, you can experience punchy, clear highs at the same time as bass without feeling overloaded—a rare occurrence with in-ear headphones.
They also have good battery life; a two-hour charge provides up to 16 hours of use, and there's even an "awareness mode" that limits the noise-canceling effect so you can communicate with those around you.
Bowers & Wilkins C5 Series 2
Next we have the Bowers & Wilkins C5 Series 2 headphones. They retail for around RUB 11,000, so not everyone can afford them.
Therefore, for those who are still able to purchase this headset, the headphones will seem refined: the sound in the Series 2 is much clearer than in the original C5, which was also cool.
They have a fairly wide soundstage, and although they don't have surround sound, they do provide an immersive experience. Thus, the device is great for games, especially shooters or RPGs.
These headphones have loops to keep them attached to your ears at all times, but since they weren't designed for sports, they're not sweat-proof. So the headset is almost ideal for gaming - but what about music?
Well, since this model focuses on delivering very clear sound, older and lower quality recordings will sound worse, so keep that in mind if you're a fan of vintage music.
When using premium headphones, most of the additional cost goes towards creating a high-quality sound balance.
Best In-Ear Gaming Headphones
All the in-ear headphones we've seen up to this point have been pretty specialized. Sometimes you just want the best product at a given price point, and that's what this section covers.
We've highlighted several headphone options that provide great sound.
Focal Sphears
Let's start with Focal Sphears.
They cost around RUB 7,000 and have a neat design complemented by sleek black and silver stainless steel construction. These headphones produce very bright sound with punchy bass and crisp highs.
They keep the sound level across all ranges, but aggressive tracks may be a little weaker than you'd expect.
The model has fairly good sound insulation and comes with an additional set of foam inserts.
Unfortunately, they do not completely block out external noise. The microphone is hidden in the center of the Focal logo. It works relatively well, with little distortion, since, while built-in, it is still far from a real, dedicated microphone.
Marshall Mode EQ
Marshall Mode EQ headphones, priced at about 4,000 rubles, offer the audiophile quality sound that Marshall has built its reputation on.
By the way, there are two equalizer presets: the first focuses on bass, and the second on treble.
Instruments are neatly separated - although they aren't virtual surround headphones, the model does provide one of the best stereo systems around.
These headphones are comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and the 3.5mm jack has an L-shaped design to minimize the risk of damage.
The overall design of the model is attractive, but it looks a little cheap due to the plastic construction. The headphones look great with the black and gold color scheme.
HiFiMan RE-400
Last on our list are the HiFiMan RE-400. Priced at around 7,000 rubles, they offer audiophile-level clear sound for the average budget. How do they do this?
Simply put, they don't focus on all the ranges compared to other models: the sound from the headphones is smooth and natural.
They do a great job of blocking out external noise to allow you to fully appreciate the music. The bass is a bit weak, however, so if you like heavy music, the RE-400 may not be the best choice.
There is one drawback: the headphones do not have built-in controls or microphones. This means that when gaming, they are best used in conjunction with a separate microphone.
Luckily, you can buy plug-in microphones like ModMic to solve the problem. With the RE-400, you understand where certain sounds are coming from - this becomes very obvious when listening to orchestral scores or listening to music recorded in a place with strong echoes.
Top 10 rating according to KP
Editor's Choice
SteelSeries Arctis 1 (from 4300 rubles)
SteelSeries Arctis 1. Photo: SteelSeries
Not bad headphones from the middle price category. The appearance is quite stylish, minimalistic, it gives the impression that they are more expensive than they actually are. The connection is wired, via a 3.5 mm mini-jack combined connector. The microphone is equipped with noise reduction, for which other players on the team will thank you. There is volume control, the assembly is decent. Not a bad option if you are not a professional gamer and are not ready to spend a lot of money, but you like to play PUBG, Dota or WoT with friends in the evening, and want the gameplay to be comfortable.
Features: headband mounting, built-in volume control, noise-canceling microphone, mini jack 3.5 mm combo, playback frequency 20-20000 Hz
Affordable price, extension cord included, noise reduction
Sound quality may disappoint, discreet, classic design (many gamers value the visual component of accessories)
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SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless (from 8,000 rubles)
SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless. Photo: SteelSeries
These headphones are similar to the previous ones in all respects, except for one thing - they are wireless. The connection is made through a specialized USB hub (a small plug for the USB port). The stated operating time is 20 hours, which should be enough for several long gaming sessions or about a week of daily short ones. The cost of the headset is almost twice as high as that of a wired analogue with the same “working” capabilities. In this regard, the purchase raises a few questions; for the money there are other interesting options.
Features: wireless, headband mount, built-in volume control, noise-cancelling microphone, USB connection, playback frequency 20-20000 Hz
Good performance, good battery life, USB connection
Relatively high cost, mediocre sound quality (for the money)
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SteelSeries Arctis Pro USB (from 14.5 thousand rubles)
SteelSeries Arctis Pro USB. Photo: SteelSeries
This is a modern, stylish headset equipped with advanced gadgets - it has customizable LED lighting, high-quality surround sound, and compatibility with mobile devices. The cost is quite high. The headset is wired, but considering the quality of workmanship and functionality, this is not such a big problem. With these headphones, you can both get maximum pleasure and comfort from the game, and successfully start your journey in professional e-sports. If games occupy an important place in your life, you should pay attention to this model. Features: headband mount, built-in volume control, noise-canceling microphone, surround sound mode, USB cable connection, playback frequency 10-40000 Hz
High-quality assembly, multi-platform, stylish appearance, customizable LED backlight
Wired, for such and such money they regretted putting the stand in the kit
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What other gaming headphones are worth paying attention to?
Logitech G PRO X (from 10.5 thousand rubles)
Logitech G PRO X. Photo: Logitech
A classic headset with a microphone from a well-known brand that produces accessories for personal computers and gaming. The design is minimalistic. If you don't need the visual component, it may be a good choice. The sound quality is not bad, the microphone works well. We should also talk about the equipment - it is quite rich. Volume control on the wire, mini jack 3.5 mm combo cable 1.5 m, adapter 2 x mini jack 3.5 mm, USB adapter with built-in sound card. This is very nice and useful, it allows you to individually select and configure headphones for yourself.
Characteristics: fastening with a headband, built-in volume control, mini jack 3.5 mm combo, playback frequency 20-20000 Hz
Rich equipment, built-in sound card
Mediocre surround sound, can't save settings in headphones
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Redragon Inferno (from 1140 rubles)
Redragon Inferno. Photo: Redragon
Budget gaming headset. It was included in our rating of the best gaming headphones of 2021 due to its good price-quality ratio. But don't expect too much when choosing them! Modularity in this model is not implemented at all. There is no combo connector; you cannot disconnect the cable from the headphones. At the end of the cord there are 2 3.5 mm connectors (for audio and micro) and a USB connector. They also cannot be turned off, they simply diverge from the base and dangle. The quality of sound and recording corresponds to the price, you can play it, but it’s unlikely to be enjoyable. This is a budget solution for undemanding users.
Characteristics: fastening with a headband, built-in volume control, USB / 2 x mini jack 3.5 mm, playback frequency 20-20000 Hz
Cheap and cheerful, there are several connection options
There is no modularity at all, the sound and recording quality correspond to the price, there are not enough stars from the sky
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Computer headset Dialog HGK-20L (from 760 rubles)
Dialog HGK-20L. Photo: Dialog
Another ultra-budget gaming headset that has gained popularity among consumers. Unlike the previous one, it has a brighter design and is equipped with LED backlighting. The manufacturer decided to spend additional resources on the design. At the same time, the headset still suffers from the same budget problems as the previous one. There is no modularity and low quality of playback and recording. The headphones are perfect for children - the sound quality is not so important for them, but the bright performance will definitely please them.
Characteristics: fastening with a headband, built-in volume control, connection: USB / 2 x mini jack 3.5 mm, playback frequency 20-20000 Hz
Cheap, bright, has LED backlighting
No modularity, low sound and recording quality
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Jet.A GHP-180 (from 916 rubles)
Jet.A GHP-180. Photo: PANTEON
A budget headset made with a different approach compared to previous inexpensive models. Nothing superfluous - no backlight, laconic design, no 3-in-1 connectors. Modularity is still missing, but not so critical, since the headphones are equipped with one combo output (for sound and recording). The manufacturer decided not to cram any unnecessary bells and whistles into the model, but to focus as much as possible on the quality of workmanship of this inexpensive model. A good option for those for whom quality factor is more important, even in inexpensive equipment. Characteristics: fastening with a headband, built-in volume control, connection: mini jack 3.5 mm combo, playback frequency 20-20000 Hz
Convenient and modern combo connector, sound and recording quality pays for every ruble spent on them
Considering the cost, there are none (well, except for the bright visual component and LED backlighting)
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Sennheiser GSP 500 (from 11.6 thousand rubles)
Sennheiser GSP 500. Photo: Sennheiser
One of the best gaming headphones from a reputable manufacturer currently on the market. The cost is quite reasonable. The build quality is beyond praise, as with any other Senheiser product. The headphones are pleasant to hold and touch, the plastic is of high quality, there are no backlashes or micro-burrs. The design is minimalistic, but very stylish and thoughtful, everything is as it should be for a quality item. It should be noted that these headphones are open-type and are not suitable for all users. The same can be said about the quality of sound and recording - users note the effect of deep immersion and the absence of extraneous sounds. Characteristics: fastening with a headband, built-in volume control, noise-canceling microphone, connection: 2 x mini jack 3.5 mm, playback frequency 10-30000 Hz
High-quality sound and recording, ease of use
These are open-type headphones, not all users subjectively like them
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SVEN AP-G886MV (from 1500 rubles)
SVEN AP-G886MV. Photo: SVEN
A budget solution from another well-known brand that produces joysticks and other accessories for personal computers. Not a bad build, good sound, connection - two 3.5 mm mini-jacks. The design is quite standard for gaming headphones, the equipment is standard. Some users are dissatisfied with the sound recording quality - the microphone may rustle. These headphones are suitable for those players who do not have a combo connector and do not need to connect via USB, but they do not want to overpay for quality. Characteristics: fastening with a headband, built-in volume control, connection: 2 x mini jack 3.5 mm, playback frequency 20-20000 Hz
Good sound quality, good build, low cost
Slightly heavy, poor recording quality
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SteelSeries Arctis 3 Bluetooth 2021 Edition (from 9590 rubles)
SteelSeries Arctis 3 Bluetooth. Photo: SteelSeries
The senior model of the Arctics line from SteelSeries from a popular company in Russia. The headset has a good price-quality ratio. Costing less than 10k rubles, it has a wireless connection via Bluetooth and supports surround sound technology. The kit includes a splitter cable for connecting via 2 mini-jack 3.5 mm connectors. It will be a good functional choice for both everyday gaming use and for viewing media content.
Features : headband mounting, built-in volume control, noise-cancelling microphone, surround sound mode, mini jack 3.5 mm combo, playback frequency 20-20000 Hz
Light weight, surround sound function, Bluetooth connection possible
Does not work in stereo mode with a microphone, only mono, sound via Bluetooth will inevitably work with at least a slight delay
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The best in-ear headphones
If you're looking for something that can help you tune out the outside world and immerse yourself in your music, in-ear headphones may be for you.
They are similar to standard in-ear headphones, except that they usually cover the ear completely. They also provide better sound quality because they are more expensive and sold by real audio professionals.
For best results, the headphones can be used in conjunction with a portable amplifier, but this is not necessary.
MEE audio M6 Pro
We'll look at the M6 PRO first. They sell for about 4,000 rubles and have an interesting transparent design.
The sound profile is geared towards high power - vocals and instruments sound loud and clear, but that doesn't mean there's a lack of bass. In fact, it's the other way around.
It is rather sharper and harsher. The M6 PRO offer a balanced profile and sound quality that is exceptional for the price.
Don't get us wrong, they're unlikely to compete with more expensive in-ear headphones, but for those on a budget, this model is a great starting point.
The headphones are comfortable, block out external noise very well and make minimal demands on the amplifier.
We liked the bright sound, but you can customize the sound profile using the software equalizer.
ETYMOTIC HF3
Next we have HF3 from Etymotic Research. The first thing you will notice about these headphones is the tips.
They're designed to fit perfectly regardless of ear size and shape, and the model does a fantastic job of isolating sound without being uncomfortable.
The peculiarity of the HF3 is that the device makes the sound very clear and crisp. This is great if you're listening to high-quality recordings, but older, vintage-style tracks may sound a little distorted.
This isn't a big deal if you're using them for gaming, but it could be an issue if you want the headphones to be versatile. What about management?
The left cable houses a three-button remote, and as a result, the microphone is much closer to your mouth than most other offerings on the market. This, at the very least, makes this model an excellent choice for gamers.
RHA T10i
We also like the RHA T10i. They cost about 14,000 rubles, so we expected excellent results and, fortunately, we were not disappointed.
They have flexible metal hooks and, despite the material, are not heavy. In terms of sound quality, the T10i focus heavily on the low frequencies.
The bass is heavy, thumping and impressive. This does help with immersion, but even with the EQ setting focused on the treble, there's not much bass.
If your device has a treble booster, you'll probably want to turn it on. There are also solid built-in controls and a microphone.
The controls are designed for use on Apple devices, so you may find that some features don't work when you use another platform, such as Android. Despite this, this model is quite powerful and worth the money.
The best 7.1 gaming headphones
Wired gaming headphones - Razer Kraken 7.1
A very recognizable model from popular manufacturers of gaming equipment. In the Razer Kraken model we are faced with virtual 7.1 sound. This effect is achieved entirely using software from Razer. The sound is divided into channels, and a full presence effect is created. You really feel where they hit you from. and if they are sneaking from behind, you really want to turn around.
The ear pads are made of soft leather, Greenpeace, don’t worry, it’s artificial and provides maximum comfort and naturalness. The Kraken 7.1 microphone with a built-in power button is conveniently hidden and taken out only when needed. Convenient and practical.
The headset is illuminated with a proprietary soft green backlight when it is active - it is always easier to understand whether the device is on or not if there is some kind of indicator light.
But with all the advantages in the form of excellent sound and ease of wearing, on the other side of the scale is the high price, virtual rather than real 7.1, and poor assembly. Every eighth person notes that after 4-5 months the Razer Kraken 7.1 headphones fall apart. Not good for a model of this level.
Price: RUB 7,490
Ergonomic gaming headphones - Razer Tiamat
The most powerful weapon for producing high-quality sound. But start considering the Razer Tiamat model only if money is not a critical issue. The cost is considerable. The sound system is real, even more than that. By purchasing a Razer Tiamat, you become the owner of a full-size model with 10 speakers on board. Large cups provide the maximum permissible level of sound positioning. I was able to touch and listen to this model in person, having visited the “Sound in the hand” exhibition.
I’ll tell you, of course, it feels great.
After listening to the ACDC track, you could mentally find yourself at the concert. Well, the main thing for which we are looking for headphones in this review is gaming. Unfortunately, there was only a console with FIFA, not the brightest game in terms of sounds, but I naturally found myself at the stadium.
In addition to precise debugging using software, the Razer Tiamat comes with a remote control. It looks stylish and allows you to control many parameters. If you are ready to shell out some serious money, then you can safely purchase this copy. According to buyers, this is a good investment, but there is an opinion that they cannot last long. The ear circumference of the Tiamat model is too tight and results in a lack of ventilation.
Review from a real buyer What I can highlight: the microphone is loud and clear, the sound is great, they don’t break (yet)! The only thing I didn’t like was their weight, for me they are kind of heavy.
Price: RUB 16,990
Wireless 7.1 Headphones – Corsair Gaming Void PRO RGB Wireless SE Dolby
If the previous models were budget, then these headphones cost quite a lot of money. The first thing you want to pay attention to is the beautiful design. The headset looks like a solid A, and there is also RGB lighting on the sides: it, of course, is not visible to the player himself, but those around him will be jealous.
The headset is wireless. This is both a plus and a minus. The plus is that the wires will not get in the way while playing, but the minus is that the headphones need to be charged regularly. However, the manufacturer claims up to 16 hours of continuous operation. The ear pads are covered with a breathable microfiber mesh, which prevents your ears from sweating while playing. The microphone here is unidirectional with noise reduction. On the cup next to it there is a mute button - very convenient during various force majeure situations.
Well, and of course we can’t help but mention 7.1 technology. It is, of course, virtual: it cannot be compared with real surround sound, but there is still something similar in headphones. The range of the headset is 12 meters. The Corsair Gaming Void PRO is a good deal for the money, but you have to admit that a wireless headset is not for everyone.
Price: ₽ 10,490
The Longest Lasting In-Ear Gaming Headphones
How many pairs of headphones have you broken in the past? We bet you've encountered this at least once.
However, it's not your fault: even if you're really careful, over time, connectors break, cables wear out, and sound quality drops noticeably.
To help you out, we've rounded up the most durable in-ear headphones on the market. Considering that they are a little more expensive, you can also expect better sound quality.
HONOR Sport AM61
HONOR Sport AM61 is already a classic in some way: the model has been on the market for several years, but the manufacturer does not remove it from sale, since it is very popular.
All thanks to the ergonomic shape, secure fit, good protection from dust and moisture, as well as pretty good sound.
This is a sports model, but it can also be used for mobile games.
Westone W40
The Westone W40s are made from hard plastic, which not only makes them impact-resistant but also reduces overall weight.
This means that they are very comfortable to wear even after several hours of use.
As for the sound, the device is more focused on low frequencies. The bass is powerful and detailed, while the treble is quite clear, with only a slight drop in quality at the top end.
These headphones are a great option for bass lovers or bass-heavy gaming enthusiasts. For example, first-person shooters are excellent when paired with the W40s - every shot and explosion delivers the effect gamers expect.
If you're looking primarily for music, however, they may not be the best choice.
Shure SE215m+SPE
The Shure SE215m+ is another fantastic option for gaming. It's part of the SE215 series, which includes a built-in three-button controller and microphone, so it has plenty to offer for gamers who like to use party chat.
These headphones did what few competitors have done - create rich sound with a sense of depth and detail.
In short, the headphones have a sound profile that is usually only found in much more expensive models.
Considering the price of 7,500 rubles, this is incredible. Combined with molded plastic construction and a Kevlar-reinforced cable, the model not only sounds great, but is also incredibly resistant to the daily wear and tear that all headphones face.
