PC Gaming Headsets Review

Audio is one of the most underappreciated attributes in video games. Typically, the only people that really take advantage of it are the professional gamers. They have found that quality PC gaming headsets and gaming headphones can help improve their gaming ability. The reason for that is because most big-name game developers put a lot of effort into the audio, and it is an essential part of the game. The best headsets allow gamers to hear what is going on around them in the game. For information on specific headsets, check out our articles on PC gaming headsets. At TopTenREVIEWS We Do the Research So You Don’t Have To.™ As always, we try to bring you the best PC gaming headset comparisons and reviews.

A good PC gaming headset, such as the Astro A40, Turtle Beach Ear Force Z6A and Sennheiser PC 330 G4ME, can be especially advantageous in first-person shooter games. A quality headset brings two major benefits to the game. First, is the ability to hear what is going on around you, which includes hearing the footsteps of your enemy coming up behind you or discerning the direction from which you are taking fire. The second major benefit is the ability to communicate effectively with your teammates, which means being able to hear them as well as talk to them.

PC Gaming Headsets: What to Look For

When we compared the best PC gaming headsets, we found a few attributes that everyone should look for. It is important to get one that will provide quality audio from the headphone, as well as the microphone. The design is also very important: it should be both functional and comfortable. Most PC gaming headsets will include a few extra features aside from those directly linked to audio quality and design, which are typically just for convenience. Lastly, look for a company that has a good help and support system.

Audio
For audio, we specifically look for the abilities of both the headphones and the microphone. For headphones, we look at the type of output that they are capable of, the level of impedance, the size of the drivers and the sound pressure level (SPL). With microphones, we find out if it is uni-directional, omni-directional or bi-directional, and we look at the sensitivity, impedance and response bandwidth. PC gaming headsets are not just headphones with a mic. They need qualities such as positional audio technology, whether that be on a stereo or surround sound set, and precession bass levels that will not drown out your teammates and other environmental noises in the game.

Design
The physical design is surprisingly important. After wearing a well-designed, comfortable PC gaming headset, you will realize what you have been missing. We look for comfortable headbands, the type of ear coupling, whether or not the microphone can be removed or retracted and the weight of the headset. Many sets are wireless, but for those that are not wireless, we also note the length of the cord and the connection type.

Convenience
This category covers all the features that make using and adapting these PC gaming headsets more convenient. Specifically we like to see cross-platform capability, additional connectors, volume control and a protective case for traveling. The primary purpose behind these features is to give you a headset that does everything you need without requiring you to buy additional accessories.

Help & Support
Nothing is more frustrating than spending a bunch of money on something that does not work properly. It happens though, so we take into consideration the amount of support that is available to you should there be manufacture defect. We also consider the information the manufacturer provides to help you understand and use your PC gaming headset properly.

These are the main aspects to look into before purchasing your own PC gaming headset. Because all the products are similar, you will want to choose the one that meets your expectations and needs. In addition, there is nothing wrong with letting the look of the headphones sway your decision a little. After all, the only thing better than "pwning noobs" at a LAN party, is doing it while looking good.