Rating of the best budget gaming headphones 2021 (TOP

Choosing a headset for gamers is not as simple a question as it might seem at first glance. There are a lot of offers and it will be difficult to understand them without experience.

E-sports is becoming more popular every year, and for comfortable team play you will definitely need a high-quality headset. It will not only allow you to coordinate the actions of the team, but will also improve results, especially in shooters. Headphones with surround sound will make it clear which side gunshots and footsteps are coming from, allowing you to react faster to changing conditions.

Please note that these gaming headsets are not designed for listening to high quality music, but for comfortable gameplay. Of course, you can use them to watch movies and listen to your favorite songs, but ordinary headphones, or even more so “studio” headphones with a similar cost, will produce noticeably better sound.

Redragon Themis 2

4.6/5

13 reviews

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average price

RUB 1,140

Characteristics

Connection type: wired.
Cable length: 2 m.
Interface: USB, 2 x 3.5 mm jack.
Frequency range (headphones): 20–20000 Hz.
Frequency range (microphone): 50–16000 Hz.
Sensitivity (headphones): 116 dB.

Unlocks Redragon Themis 2 ratings . Redragon is a manufacturer of cheap but very high-quality gaming peripherals. Themis 2 headphones completely follow this formula - today they can be found in retail at a price of about 1,300 rubles . For this money, the user receives good characteristics that do not lag behind more expensive models. According to customer reviews, the plastic case is well assembled, the adjustable headband sits comfortably on the head, and the pads provide an acceptable level of noise insulation. Convenience is added by the presence of a microphone mute button directly on the hinge.

In terms of sound, you shouldn’t expect miracles for that kind of money, but considering the price, Themis 2 looks decent . Users note dull bass, as well as the absence of extraneous noise at high frequencies. The microphone performance does not cause any complaints.

The two-meter headphone cable is without braid, which is definitely a minus . Another disadvantage of headphones is their appearance. The plastic of the case is cheap, so the headphones don’t look much better than ultra-budget Chinese products. The product is only available in black and red . Only the logo of a famous brand adds a little external premium to them.

Pros:

Price.
Sound quality.
Adapter - one 3.5 mm jack.

Minuses:

Cheap body materials.
Cable without fabric braid.

Redragon Themis 2 is a good ultra-budget option, clearly better than products from “basement China”. Suitable for users who are very limited in funds or who fundamentally do not want to spend a lot of money on peripherals. For the rest, it’s better to expand your budget a little and buy something more solid (the same CROWN MICRO is not much more expensive).

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How to choose gaming headphones

In order to get practical advice on choosing the best gaming headphones, we turned to Peter Andreev, a JavaScript programmer who loves to play cooperative projects in his free time. He hasn't changed a single pair of headphones in his life and can tell you things about them that aren't obvious at first glance.

Weight and fit

When worn for a long time, the headset should not rub your head, come off, or cause any other discomfort. You need to make sure that everything is in order with the ear pads, ideally choose a ventilated version so that your head and ears do not sweat. Particular attention should be paid to the weight - after 4-5 hours in headphones, the difference of 50-100 g will no longer seem so insignificant to you. The lighter the headset, the better.

Availability of built-in sound card and microphone

Different headsets have different requirements for the sound card of the device they are connected to. Some modern gadgets cannot be implemented with an old sound card. Some headset models have their own sound card, which can be a panacea. But a separately purchased sound card will most likely be of higher quality. However, headphone and microphone requirements are not as important during a gaming session as they are during a studio recording, for example, so even the most basic modern or “bundled” sound card should be fine. However, if you are a militant esthete and are willing to spend a certain amount of money, you should take a closer look at buying a separate microphone, headphones and sound card. It will be significantly more expensive, but it's worth it.

Test before purchase

The most expensive headset will not always be the best, especially for you personally. A direct comparison and headphone test will help you choose “your” option best. You need to look at how they sit on your head, whether they are comfortable for you, whether they fit tightly to your head, and whether your ears are sweaty. Reviews are a last resort. Even if the headphones have worked for hundreds of people, you may not like them. Many manufacturers guarantee quality, especially large and old brands, but even they have misfires and unsuccessful batches.

CROWN MICRO CMGH-21 00

4.7/5

101 reviews

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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.

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Apple AirPods 2

Great, truly wireless in-ear headphones with enhanced sound.

Characteristics

Built-in remote control and microphone: yes | Operating system: iOS | Bluetooth: yes | Noise cancelling: no | Battery life: 5 hours (+19 hours with case)

BEHIND

Pleasant tonal character
Refined sound
Impeccable wireless signal transmission technology

Against

Insufficient sound insulation
No buttons
Hardness of sound as volume increases

The second generation AirPods sound much better than their predecessors and come with a host of features, including advanced pairing that makes communication between Apple devices simple and convenient.

Bluetooth 5.0-enabled earbuds are powered by Apple's new H1 chip for interference-free and reliable connections. Enhancing the quality of the audio signal results in highly refined and musical sound with a neutral tonal balance.

Battery life is impressive: five hours of listening time, plus an additional 19 hours with the included cable charging case (you can also purchase a dedicated Apple wireless case). For devices running iOS13, an interesting Audio Sharing function is available, which allows a second pair of AirPods to connect to the iPhone and listen to the same thing as its owner.

The disadvantages include the lack of replaceable attachments - we can only hope that the standard size will suit all owners. For Apple fans, these stylish earbuds offer fantastic value for money.

Bloody G530

4.6/5

109 reviews

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average price

RUB 1,990

Characteristics

Connection type: wired.
Cable length: 1.8 m.
Interface: USB
Frequency range (headphones): 20–20000 Hz.
Frequency range (microphone): 100–10000 Hz.
Sensitivity (headphones): 105 dB.

In fifth place is Bloody G530 . Budget headphones from the gaming brand A4tech cost a little more than competitors above, but boast excellent workmanship and a decent microphone. Today they can be found in retail at prices up to 2,500 rubles . The sound characteristics of the device are well balanced: there is no rattling or extraneous noise at high frequencies, as well as “dull” bass . The sound is quite clear, although still not up to Hi-Fi standards . The microphone has decent sensitivity and works without distortion. Active noise reduction and high-quality 7.1 sound circuit are implemented, which is important for gamers.

The headphones are assembled very well. The plastic does not leave a cheap impression, nothing plays or rattles . The soft headband is combined with a metal two-section support, which makes the headphones very durable. The headphones and microphone themselves are illuminated; on the side of the headphones there are elements with a mesh design and a corporate logo . According to user reviews, the headset turned out to be light and easy to use. The headphones connect via USB, a cable without a coil, and its length is only 1.8 m . Microphone and volume controls are on one ear.

But there were some minor shortcomings. Thus, the microphone is equipped with a bright red LED, which interferes with peripheral vision and can hurt the eyes . At the same time, the microphone stem is very short, and it is impossible to remove it further. Considering that the backlight cannot be turned off, this small detail can seriously spoil the user experience. Many people rightly note that mechanically switching the volume with a wheel can fail over time. In addition, to fully use the headphones, you will need to install the driver.

Pros:

Sound quality.
Backlight.
Case materials.

Minuses:

The backlight for the microphone interferes with peripheral vision.
The backlight does not turn off.
Mechanical volume switching can be a weak point.

Bloody G530 very well combines a low price with a bright design and good sound. However, they are not suitable for everyone - a number of minor design flaws can scare users away from competitors: for example, CROWN and JBL offer comparable quality for the same money.

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Bowers & Wilkins PI3

Great wireless earbuds for sports enthusiasts.

Characteristics

BEHIND

Clear and refined sound
Tight and weighty bass
Stylish design and quality construction

Against

No IPX marking
Few attachments

Bowers & Wilkins earbuds may have been losing ground to other form factors in recent years, but the wireless PI3s can compete with the strongest equivalent competitors.

Cute (if a little bulky), they have two speakers each and boast a flexible and comfortable neckband that includes a built-in battery, controls and a decent microphone. B&W claims that voices are as clear as music - which is great news, as these headphones have very tight, clear and balanced sound.

The battery will last for eight hours, with a 15-minute quick charge giving you two more. Formally, this model is not waterproof, but, according to the statement. The selection of included eartips is limited, so it’s best to try on the headphones before purchasing and make sure they suit you.

Either way, these stylish earbuds will provide you with compelling, immersive sound – and add a few more points to your B&W treasury.

ASUS TUF Gaming H3

4.4/5

57 reviews

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average price

RUR 3,989

Characteristics

Connection type: wired.
Cable length: 1.3 m + extension – 1.3 m
Interface: mini-Jack (3.5 mm).
Frequency range (headphones): 20–20000 Hz.
Frequency range (microphone): 50–10000 Hz.
Sound: 7.1 (virtual).

The fourth place in the TOP is occupied by ASUS TUF Gaming H3 . Gaming headphones from ASUS are significantly more expensive than many of their budget classmates, but the overpayment is justified by their excellent design, overall workmanship and brand recognition. Today TUF Gaming H3 can be found in retail at prices up to 3,500 rubles . The headphones are equipped with Essence speakers and boast excellent clear sound with deep bass. 7.1 audio scheme is supported using Windows Sonic . The microphone produces clear and loud sound with a slight bias towards high frequencies.

The TUF Gaming H3 is built well and is based on a steel headband . Ease of use is ensured by a soft pad covered with leatherette. The ear pads fit tightly and provide excellent noise insulation. Despite its gaming purpose, the design of the device is surprisingly strict : the only bright elements are the arcs on both sides of the headset. Four color schemes are available: Red, Blue, Gun metal and Silver.

The cable length is only 1.3 m, but, as it turns out, many consider this length to be optimal . But for those for whom this length is not enough, a 1.3 m extension cord was included in the kit. Buyers praise the TUF Gaming H3 for its lightness, convenience and surround sound, which significantly affects the game. The headphones turned out to be durable and reliable . The headset has been criticized for its poorly implemented 7.1 virtual circuit, the lack of braiding on the cable (only the adapter has it), the lack of USB connectivity, and the inability to detach the microphone.

Pros:

Steel base.
Sound quality.
Reliability.

Minuses:

Circuit 7.1 is implemented via Windows Sonic.
No USB connection.
Cable without braid.

But overall, the TUF Gaming H3 can be considered a solid workhorse for daily use. This is a durable and high-quality device at a reasonable price.

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Bowers & Wilkins PX7

Great headphones with noise canceling system.

Characteristics

Bluetooth: yes | Noise cancelling: yes | Battery life: 30 hours | Charging port: USB-C | Built-in microphone and remote: yes

BEHIND

Live and refined sound
Three-level noise reduction system
Refined and comfortable design
Battery life

Against

Cups do not fold inwards

The PX7 may look less expensive than B&W's previous headphone models, but they're very comfortable for everyday wear and are great for both binge-watching Netflix and long video calls.

They successfully combine proprietary speaker technology with Qualcomm's new aptX Adaptive Bluetooth codec to create tight, balanced sound that surpasses its predecessors in clarity and enthusiasm.

The PX7's proximity sensor pauses music playback when the listener lifts the earcup, and resumes it when it returns to its place. These headphones don't fold into a more portable shape, but at least they come with a handy carrying case. Battery life has increased to 30 hours, and 15 minutes of charging via the USB-C port will give you another five.

The Sony WH-1000XM3 (the first model on this list) recreates music more faithfully, but the winding PX7s are also very good.

JBL Quantum 100

4.5/5

100 reviews

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average price

RUB 1,790

Characteristics

Connection type: wired.
Cable length: 1.2 m
Interface: mini-Jack (3.5 mm).
Frequency range (headphones): 20–20000 Hz.
Frequency range (microphone): 100–10000 Hz.
Sensitivity (headphones): 96 dB.

The top three is opened by JBL Quantum 100 . These popular gaming headphones are inexpensive, despite the impressive JBL brand. In retail they can be found at prices up to 2,500 rubles. Considering the price tag, the sound quality here is decent. High or low frequencies are not felt, but the sound depth is also slightly lacking. Quantum SOUND Signature technology is announced, which provides good positioning in games . The microphone is equipped with a voice selection function and produces smooth and clear sound without external noise.

The headphones are made entirely of plastic, 50 mm dynamic drivers are used, and the microphone can be removed. The headset is comfortable to wear, the headband and ear pads are upholstered in soft artificial leather, and the weight is only 220 grams . The left earpiece contains microphone and volume controls. The design is strict, but pleasant: there are no poisonous “gamer” colors or lighting here. Available in black, blue and white.

The connection cable is short - only 1.2 m, but it has a braid . The 3.5 mm combo connector is convenient when connecting to a laptop, smartphone or console, but for use with a PC you will have to purchase an adapter separately. Buyers of Quantum 100 note high sound quality with a 7.1 working circuit, voice selection on the microphone , discreet design with interesting color options and comfort in games. The criticism concerns the case materials and the short cable without an adapter.

Pros:

Sound quality.
Voice selection.
Detachable microphone.

Minuses:

Short cable.
Lack of adapter for 2 mini jacks.
Case materials.

This is a great budget headset, especially for use with a laptop or console . But the ergonomics for PC users are absolutely not thought out here. In addition, in August 2021, these headphones became slightly more expensive, which weakens their position in the fight for consumers. In terms of case materials and versatility, they are inferior to analogues from SVEN and Bloody for the same money.

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AKG Y50BT

Great sound and affordable price.

Characteristics

Bluetooth: 4.0 with aptX support | Noise cancelling: yes | Battery life: 15 hours | Built-in microphone and remote control: yes | Weight: 199.4 g

BEHIND

Impressive clarity, detail and dynamics
Ease of use
Convenience

Against

For this price - nothing

Despite their affordable price, these dynamic on-ear headphones have won What Hi-Fi?'s Award multiple times. They feature impressive detail and rare clarity in Bluetooth signal transmission, making them great for listening to music, as well as for voice and video calls.

The functionality, design and workmanship are excellent. Battery life is a very respectable 20 hours, and after that, you can plug in the cable and continue using the headphones. The picture is completed by intuitive controls and an attractive price.

Whether you're watching a movie or making a video call, you'll agree that the soft ear pads are incredibly comfortable (though wrap-around headphones tend to provide a tighter seal). The sound is excellent for this price category, the dynamics are impressive. Listening to music in them is very pleasant.

It's not often that you find a pair of Bluetooth headphones that match the sound quality of their wired counterparts, but the Y50BT are up to the task. They boast high quality, no wires and a very affordable price.

SVEN AP-U980MV

4.5/5

223 reviews

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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.

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Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless

Excellent noise-canceling headphones further enhance Sennheiser's reputation.

Characteristics

Bluetooth: yes | Noise cancelling: yes | Battery life: 17 hours | Charging port: USB-C | Built-in microphone and remote: yes

BEHIND

Energetic and rhythmic sound
Convenient and thoughtful features
Effective noise reduction

Against

Average battery life

The third generation Momentum Wireless headphones follow in the footsteps of the two models that swept away all competitors and successfully continue this trend. The workmanship is simply excellent; Luxurious sheepskin leather ear pads contrast nicely with the steel sliding arms. Improved controls on the cups provide more control over music playback and phone calls.

But the main advantage of this model is its noise reduction technology, which eliminates most external sounds with brutal efficiency. The Sennheiser Smart Control app allows you to adjust its levels, and the Wind Protection mode promises to be especially useful when talking outdoors.

The sound is energetic, dynamic and precise. Momentum Wireless supports aptX, AAC and SBC Bluetooth codecs, as well as aptX Low Latency, which ensures optimal synchronization of audio and video signals. The headphones' impressive acoustic talents will delight their owner for 17 hours on a single battery charge; The foldable design allows you to take them with you on trips to work.

If you're in the market for a pair of premium monitors with a wide range of features, be sure to put the Momentum Wireless on your list of candidates.

Redragon Aspis Pro

Budget headphones with a high-quality microphone and USB connection.

The rating of the best headphones with a microphone opens with the budget headset Redragon Aspis Pro ($38) with good and high-quality Chinese assembly - metal and thick plastic.

The microphone is removable, which is a plus. It is flexibly adjustable and noise-canceling. It transmits sound quite well for its price. The headphones have built-in vibration. The material is breathable, suitable for long-term use. The speakers support 7.1 virtual surround sound.

Excellent gaming headphones with a microphone under 3,000 rubles, suitable for many gamers who require good sound, but do not want to spend money.

TOP 12 Best headphones with a microphone for a computer - Rating 2021

The best gaming headphones with a good microphone

№	Name	Description	Price
1.	SteelSeries Arctis Pro USB	TOP headphones with the best microphone	200$
2.	HyperX Cloud Flight S	The best wireless gaming headphones for PC with a great microphone	175$
3.	Audeze Mobius	The best PC headset for premium gaming	470$
4.	Corsair Void Pro RGB Wireless	Wireless Over-ear PC Gaming Headphones	150$
5.	SVEN AP-U980MV	The best budget gaming headphones with a good microphone	35$
6.	Sennheiser G4ME ZERO	High-quality gaming headphones with good sound and microphone	155$
7.	HyperX Cloud II	Excellent computer headset with excellent microphone	100$
8.	Logitech G Pro X	Full-size USB gaming headphones with excellent microphone and virtual 7.1 sound	148$
9.	HyperX Cloud Alpha S	Excellent wired over-ear headphones with high-quality sound and microphone	126$
10.	Sennheiser GSP 670 Wireless	Flagship wireless model with a good microphone and long battery life	300$
11.	Beyerdynamic MMX 300 (2. Generation)	Wired over-ear headphones with great sound for gaming and music	350$
12.	Redragon Aspis Pro	Budget headphones with a quality microphone	38$

HyperX Cloud Alpha S

Review of HyperX Cloud Alpha S - excellent wired full-size headphones with high-quality sound and microphone.

HyperX Cloud Alpha S ($126) is the ninth best headphone with a microphone. Excellent wired full-size headphones with high-quality sound (7.1 emulation), comfortable fit, rich set and detachable cable.

The sound of this model is beyond praise; it is in this regard that HyperX Cloud Alpha S can compete with more expensive options. The headphones are also great for listening to music (you just need to turn off the 7.1 emulation).

Main characteristics

Headphone type: full-size, closed
Speaker diameter: 50mm
Frequency range: 13 – 27000 Hz
Resistance: 65 ohm
Sensitivity: 99 dB
Connection: 3.5 mm plug, USB
Frequency response: 50 Hz – 18 kHz
Sensitivity: -38 dB
Weight (without cable): 310 g

Equipment

Headphones
2 pairs of ear pads (leatherette and fabric)
Microphone
Cable with USB mixer (2 m)
Cable with 3.5 plug (1 m)
Fabric cover
Documentation

Video review

Sound. Smooth, detailed and natural. In this regard, the headphones are very versatile; they are suitable for gaming, listening to music or watching movies.
Comfort.
Design.
Build quality. The headphones are assembled perfectly, the materials are of high quality, the design looks reliable.
Set.
High quality microphone. Good noise reduction and natural voice transmission.
Detachable cable and microphone. Another very important plus.

Mixer location. It is located a meter from the headphones.
Cable. Quite thick, heavy and tough.