The best headphones for home, office and gaming computers 2021

The computer is an integral part of the life of a modern person. Some people like to stay up late watching their favorite movies, TV series or playing games, which can disturb their roommates. In this case, the importance of headphones cannot be overestimated. Moreover, when it comes to gamers, having a microphone for modern online games is a must, and most models take this into account. To make the right choice of a headset for a computer that will not cause discomfort during long-term use, you should take into account some of its features and characteristics.

What kind of headset is there?

In total, accessories can be divided into four main categories:

1. In-ears – Presumably maintain a compact size, making them almost invisible. But the models will have virtually no sound insulation. Prolonged use may cause hearing discomfort. An excellent option only if you don’t listen to music all the time.
2. In-channel - In many ways they resemble the previous type, but are distinguished by more reliable fastening. A slight insulation from external noise is the only advantage compared to the previous group.
3. Full-size or monitor – Headphones belong to the professional class. There are both products with medium and high quality. The higher the price, the better the quality. Models have partial or complete sound insulation. The last type is relevant for buyers who place sound quality first compared to other characteristics. A headset with holes in the case is the best option if you have many hours of watching movies or gaming sessions.
4. Overheads - Their essence is largely the same as the previous variety. Many consider such models to be universal. Suitable for use both outdoors and at home. There is a membrane, but it only partially covers the ear. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about excessive pressure on your hearing organs, there is none. A secure fit on the head makes the headphones suitable even for jogging, let alone watching movies.

The last two types are considered optimal regardless of the user’s goals or frequency of use.

Design and form factor (materials)

Considering the design features of headphones, we can distinguish 4 main types:

1. In-ear headphones are not the best option for gamers; they have some disadvantages related to the length of the wire, sound quality, and sound insulation. In addition, with active use, such headphones often fall out of the ears. Along with in-ear models, they are more suitable for use with portable audio devices (smartphones, tablets, mp3 players).
2. Over-ear headphones are the best option for gaming headsets. The design of such models implies a minimum distance from the speaker to the ear. Reliable sound insulation is provided by ear pads that completely surround the ear. Most full-size headphones have a considerable weight due to their size, but this is compensated by the soft headband. The housing features allow you to hide the microphone in the speaker bowl.
3. Over-ear headsets are an equally comfortable option for long-term use. These types of headphones are attached directly to the ear, pressing the ear pads against it. The sound is high quality, thanks to large speakers and soft ear pads. The dimensions of the cups allow the use of remote microphones attached directly to the ear cup. Due to the way they are mounted, the speakers of on-ear headphones are located at a considerable distance from the ear, so you often have to increase the volume.
4. In-ear headphones – are fixed directly in the ear canal, which provides additional sound insulation and better sound delivery. When listening for a long time, they may cause some discomfort. Just like earbuds, they are often equipped with a microphone on the cable.

What are the main technical parameters for headphones?

Many buyers look only at design features and design. But the actual technical characteristics of the device are no less important. The optimal scope of application of each model depends on this.

Before purchasing, we recommend paying attention to the following parameters:

• Frequency range – 20 Hz – 20 kHz – standard frequency range for quality products.
• Resistance or impedance – Impedance determines the quality with which the signal is transmitted. Unit of measurement – ​​Ohm. The normal value is in the range of 40-150 Ohms. An impedance higher than 100 ohms is necessary for studio-quality sound. The maximum this characteristic can be 600 Ohms. The minimum is 30 Ohms, this indicator indicates a very low quality of the headset. If the computer sound card does not support the appropriate characteristics, then even purchasing high-impedance headphones will not give the desired results.
• Sensitivity indicator – Sensitivity is also called headphone volume. The recommended level is 100 dB. Such devices will not damage hearing, which ensures safety for the user. The rule can be omitted only for a headset that is used occasionally. If headphones are used for an hour or more a day, then you should not ignore the recommendations.

Over-ear headphones

Full-size - they differ from all others in that they fit very tightly to the head. They have better sound quality due to the large membrane; among them there are those that are intended for professional work with sound.

From an acoustics point of view, full-size headphones are divided into open and closed. What is the difference between them?

• Closed headphones have no holes on the outside, therefore, they have good sound insulation. They are designed for working with sound and tracking various artifacts, therefore they are used in professional recording studios. Their disadvantage is the following: they, like in-canal ones, create a load on the human hearing system. The ear gets tired, a person needs to take breaks from work.
• Open-back headphones have small holes on the outside. Because of this, a person does not have a feeling of complete isolation from the outside world. The ear is not as tired as in closed headphones, so this type is most often used by gamers and computer music lovers.

What other criteria should I look at?

There are other nuances that you should know about before making a purchase.

• Several types of connectors are used - USB, 6.2 mm jack, 3.5 mm minijack. If necessary, it is easy to use special adapters for indicators of 6.2 or 3.5 millimeters.
• The percentage of sound distortion should be as low as possible. If manufacturers care about their reputation, then they will definitely prescribe this parameter.
• Type of attachment. These can be ear clips, devices under the hairline, over the head. Here, only the user decides which option suits him most. It is worth considering how much the accessory weighs overall. When used for a long time, the headphones will only cause discomfort if they are too heavy.

Evaluate the basic characteristics

Regardless of the type and class, all headphones have basic technical characteristics that allow you to form an idea of ​​​​the sound capabilities. When choosing relatively inexpensive headsets, you shouldn’t take such numbers too seriously, but you also shouldn’t ignore them.

Frequency range

This parameter characterizes the spectrum of sounds that the headphones can reproduce. The standard range is 20 - 20,000 Hz. The human ear simply does not recognize more, although in the description of headsets one can often find meanings that go beyond these limits. There is nothing bad about this, but it cannot be called an undeniable advantage either.

Sensitivity

Sensitivity tells how loud the headphones will play, all other things being equal. The relationship is direct: the higher the sensitivity, the higher the maximum volume. 95-100 dB or more is considered good for normal use.

Power

This parameter also affects the headphone volume ceiling, but it should only be taken into account by bass lovers using stationary amplifiers. In combination with a high-quality sound source, high-power headphones provide brighter and richer sound. If you are going to listen to music mainly from a smartphone, you are unlikely to be able to unlock the potential of high power.

Resistance

The nominal input resistance of headphones, also called impedance, affects both volume and overall sound quality. You need to focus on this parameter in accordance with the device with which you are going to use the headphones. For smartphones and portable equipment, you should select headsets with a lower impedance - up to 32 or even 16 Ohms, and for stationary devices - with a higher one, from 32 Ohms.

frequency response

The amplitude-frequency response is demonstrated in the form of a graph and characterizes the quality of transmission of various frequencies.

Frequency response of Beats Solo3. Raised bass, sagging midrange (Mid Range) and virtually no upper treble (High-Treble) / rtings.com

Frequency response Sony MDR-100AAP. A “hump” in the low frequency region indicates the bass range of the headphones, while at high frequencies there is clearly an imbalance with a strong dip in the upper frequencies / rtings.com

Frequency response of AKG K701. A clear lack of bass (left third of the graph), raised mid-treble frequencies (Mid-Treble) and failure in the upper treble / rtings.com

The minimum number of sharp bends in the frequency response curve indicates a balanced sound and accurate transmission of the original audio material. The height of the curve on the graph reflects the volume in a specific range. A “hump” at the beginning of the frequency response curve, at low frequencies, indicates that the headphones are bassy.

Plug

It should also be noted how to connect wired headphones. Most models on sale have a mini-jack plug (3.5 mm). A regular jack (6.3 mm) can be found on professional-level headsets, and a micro jack (2.5 mm) has become very rare lately. Nevertheless, pay attention to which plug the headset has and whether there is an adapter included.

Wires and their absence: what to choose?

You need to decide in advance what type of connection will be used. Headphones are either wireless or wired.

Wireless connection is portable. Thanks to this, the user can easily move around the surrounding space.

The convenience of a wireless connection means that the user will pay more for the equipment. It is recommended to choose such models if wires only create inconvenience. And sound quality is not that important.

Wired headphones are not as convenient as the previous option, but they are also endowed with certain strong features.

Such models transmit a higher quality, stable signal. You can choose products in which the wires are connected to only one side. Side plugs create fewer problems during operation.

Wires have other additional nuances:

• If they are too thin, then breakdowns will appear quickly; this is one of the most common problems.
• Each buyer chooses the length of the wire based on personal needs and preferences.
• Removable plugs are considered practical.

Classification by type of construction

Plug-in

Tablets, earbuds, “buttons” are common names for headphones of this type. The main advantage is the simplicity and compactness of the product. The disadvantage is low noise insulation.

When using this headset, sounds emanating from nearby sources - a working TV or radio - will be clearly audible.

In some cases, this is quite an advantageous feature that provides security to the user. These headphones are suitable for telephones and walkie-talkies so that you can hear what is happening around you while on the street.

In-canal

“Plugs”, “earplugs”, “barrels” are more understandable definitions. They have the same advantages as earbuds, but with a greater degree of sound insulation. The disadvantages include poor sound quality. The reason is the small diameter of the membrane.

On-ear (ear-ear)

They are placed on the ear, have high sound quality and secure fit. May have different mounting methods. The disadvantages include discomfort after prolonged wearing due to the pressure exerted on the ears.

Monitor

The largest option. Thanks to the increased size of the membrane, excellent sound quality is ensured.

While wearing these headphones, the user's ears are inside the cups, which minimizes pressure on the ears and increases sound insulation.

Features of headphones with microphones

Many users prefer the included microphone. This is a universal option that allows you to implement various tasks. Such designs are called headsets. A good noise-canceling microphone will make communication as comfortable as possible. This indicator will be key if you are interested in the sound or voice recording function.

Each microphone has its own type of mount, with certain features.

• Movable. The most convenient and practical option. The position of the microphone can be easily adjusted and can be easily removed even when not in use.
• Stationary. The optimal solution if the owner does not change the main position for a long time.
• Simple wired models are optimal for occasional use.
• Built-in microphone type. The solution is considered far from the most practical. The part is always within easy reach. There is no possibility to adjust the position. But all sounds are captured stably.

A microphone is necessary for those who are interested in online games and constant work with clients. The more often you plan to use an accessory, the better the quality of the purchase.

Combined models are produced, which also have some disadvantages. It is more practical to choose a microphone and headphones separately. Then you won’t have to work with the entire headset if the device suddenly becomes unusable.

Classification by type of fastening

With headband

Both headphones are connected using a bow that goes over the head like a hoop. The bow can be made of plastic or metal.

Models with arms that are adjustable in length are also available. This design evenly distributes the weight of the headset and does not cause discomfort even when worn for a long time.

Occipital

As the name suggests, the mounting bracket is located in the back of the head. With this type of design, almost the entire weight of the headset falls on the ears, which can cause discomfort when wearing the device for a long time.

Ear-mounted

The headphones are attached directly to the ears using a special earhook.

Without fastening

This type of fastening is used in in-ear or “plug” type headsets.

About surround sound and vibration

Surround sound technology is supported by several types of devices. This function is implemented physically or virtually. Other models can work with vibration. They usually have a built-in sound card as well as a USB connection.

• Option with physical implementation. It is assumed that there is an honest speaker system with 5.1 or 7.1 figures. In this case, the user hears even from which direction the sounds are coming. In most cases, the option is not required; it will be useful during computer games. High-quality surround sound systems come with a hefty price tag. And cheap ones are sometimes enough for normal sound.
• Virtual surround sound. Usually the matter is limited to only two speakers. But devices are capable of changing frequencies. And the same feeling arises as when working with 5.1 numbers. The more expensive the device, the better the function works.
• Vibration. In this case, the headphones are equipped with special vibration motors. Most often it is light, but some make it quite powerful. But for most users there is no benefit from this. Either this solution quickly gets boring, or your head starts to hurt. Headphones with surround sound are most often purchased by those who use the accessory only for gaming. But it is recommended to trust only trusted brands; low quality will not work here. Many people advise avoiding vibration altogether. Regarding controls Headsets and headphones can be controlled from various elements.
• Remotes. This is usually a small block located on the cable. Use it to switch tracks and change the volume. A convenient solution when it comes to universal headsets that are used in conjunction with mobile devices. But reliability decreases, since wires often break in the area where the remote controls are located. In some cases, models are equipped with built-in digital-to-analog converters. These are special adapters, from 3.5 millimeters to USB and vice versa. Such devices are becoming more universal. But it is recommended to use adapters not constantly, but periodically. Otherwise, the reliability of the connections is reduced.
• Volume controls. A useful purchase, although not required specifically for computer types of headsets. The operating system itself allows you to change the indicator. The keyboard supports the same function. But this is a convenient option specifically for mobile devices. Wheel-shaped parts often wear out over time. Buttons are more convenient, although they are inferior in terms of durability.
• ⦁ Mute the microphone. An indispensable addition for a computer headset. After all, not everyone needs to be heard when using certain programs or functions. For example, when the owner is distracted from the game, he walks away for a while. It would be nice if there was a separate button to mute the microphone. The digital headset also provides audio.
• ⦁ Using additional buttons. The main thing is to look at how big the buttons are and how they are located.

The best wired headset for a computer

A selection of the best headphones for PC that will appeal to users looking for the highest quality product on the market.

MSI DS502 GAMING HEADSET

This full-size gaming model from one of the best manufacturers of gaming devices offers customers headphones with a hanging headband that can independently adjust to the user’s head. The device is closed, which provides good sound insulation, and the cups are backlit.

There's smart vibration for enhanced bass (can be turned off), an adjustable microphone, and support for 7.1 virtual surround sound. This model has a control panel and has software for fine tuning. The cable is two meters long and connects via USB. Frequency – 20 – 20000 Hz, resistance – 32 Ohms, sensitivity – 105 dB. Weight – 405 grams.

Advantages:

• high volume;
• good sound in games and movies;
• good voice transmission;
• thoughtful ergonomics;
• It is possible to customize the sound for yourself.

Flaws:

• the sound in the music is not the best;
• The backlight does not turn off.

Razer Kraken Tournament Edition

This is a fairly expensive full-size gaming headset, but its capabilities fully justify the price tag. The device has a well-thought-out design - the headband has grooves for the temples of glasses, the ear pads are filled with cooling gel and have a memory effect, and the material of the ear pads absorbs body heat well and quickly dissipates it. The microphone here extends out of the body and has a movable leg. Connection is possible using 3.5 or via USB; in addition, there is a USB sound card with a lot of settings.

You can adjust the bass, voice-to-sound ratio, and turn 7.1 sound on or off. The standard cable is 1.3 meters, it is reinforced and has a reinforced coating. There is also a two-meter extension cord. Frequency range – 12 – 28000 Hz, sensitivity 109 dB, resistance 32 Ohms. Weight – 322 grams. The headset is available in two colors – black and green. For more fine-tuning, you can download proprietary software.

Advantages:

• excellent ergonomics and design;
• excellent sound;
• convenient sound card;
• several connection options;
• There is software for settings.

Flaws:

• The software is implemented in a complex manner - not everyone will be able to understand it.

HyperX Cloud II

The very popular gaming headset from HyperX primarily attracts attention with its design. The ear pads here have a memory effect and are made of high-quality leatherette. The model has clamping force, but at the same time the weight is distributed, so even during long gaming sessions it does not put pressure on the head. Its headband is made of aluminum, which guarantees durable operation. The microphone is detachable with noise reduction and a flexible stem.

Connection is made using a 1 meter fabric braided cable, and the kit also includes a 2 meter extension cord. Plug – 3.5. The package includes a USB sound card, replaceable ear pads, an adapter for use on an airplane, and a storage case. The USB card allows you to separately configure the sound for the microphone and headphones, and you can also turn virtual volume on and off . Frequency range – 15 – 25000 Hz, resistance – 60 Ohms, sensitivity – 98 dB. Weight – 350 grams.

Advantages:

• excellent ergonomics and design;
• rich set;
• good sound;
• high-quality detachable microphone;
• virtual sound.

Flaws:

• Due to the standard 4 pin connector, the microphone will not work on all devices;
• There is no configuration software provided.