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Fast-forward to today and there is a multitude of specialized headsets and microphones that are built with gaming in mind, custom-tailored to provide players with an enhanced experience by highlighting specific sound ranges. But some gaming headsets can be a bit expensive, and some players may be questioning if spending the money on a gaming headset is even worth it compared to simply using an everyday pair of headphones or earbuds. Here’s a look at what gaming headsets are all about, to help players decide if they even need a gaming headset.
What Are Gaming Headsets For?
The main draw for gaming headsets is that they seamlessly combine both a microphone and headphone peripheral into one easy-to-use package. Players that find themselves playing online games often, or wanting to record voice-over content for gaming-based clips and streams, will need to have both a microphone and headphones to hear sounds and communicate clearly. Although there are some players out there that prefer to have their devices separate for better overall control and customization, having two separate pieces of hardware can be a bit of a hassle for the average gamer.
Gaming headsets make things much easier, especially concerning console gaming, where connecting multiple devices is a frustrating and confusing affair. Players that want to quickly hop online and talk with their friends or other gamers via voice chat will love how easy it is to plug and play with a gaming headset. There are headsets that are custom-tailored for specific consoles or generalist gaming headsets that can connect to both console and PC by way of separate cables and adapters (which are usually included with the gaming headset itself).
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What Makes Gaming Headsets Different From Normal Headphones?
Gaming headsets aren’t simply combination devices, they provide specialized sound-tuning that helps differentiate them from standard headphones. Traditional earbuds, on-ear, and over-ear headphones are designed with music, audio, and visual entertainment in mind. Because of this, companies work hard to craft drivers and companion software that allow users to fine-tune their listening experience. This includes options like tuning the Treble and Bass, as well as access a variety of different pre-sets and equalizers to help create the ultimate listening experience, depending on multiple variables, focusing on things like musical genre and personal taste.
Gaming headsets usually don’t focus on additional options and adjustable Treble as designers are more interested in giving players access to the multitude of sounds they may not hear within a game by using a standard headphone with music-based mixing. As a product, gaming headsets are usually tuned with heavier Bass, as well as ranges that highlight things like enemy footsteps or other sound effects. They also focus heavily on Surround Sound, giving players the best possible experience to immerse themselves in a given game. Although music can be an integral part of a game experience, its much more likely that the sound effects will play a big part in making gamers feel as if they’re part of the action.
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This heavy emphasis on Surround Sound can also help players who like to engage in competitive multiplayer or PvP, as it helps them hear their opponents easier. That said, gaming headsets aren’t without their flaws. Although, in the modern age, there are many gaming headsets that are suitable for both gaming and music, they can be rather expensive. Players should expect to pay a higher premium if they want a gaming headset that has a multitude of options available, similar to a music and sound-based headphone. Gaming headsets usually have a poorer sound quality when it comes to “easy listening” and can be a bit abrasive for people that are simply using them to listen to music, television, or audiobooks.
Do I Need A Gaming Headset?
Gaming headsets are absolutely worth it for players that are looking to get the most out of the games they play. Not only will gaming headsets help them compete better in multiplayer game modes, but they will also help them enjoy single-player experiences better by drawing out additional sounds they may not hear with a traditional headset, better amping up the action and immersion they feel.
Gaming headsets are also extremely useful in giving players easy access to a communication device, without forcing them to purchase additional products like microphones and adapters just to voice chat with friends and other players. This is even more prevalent in console gaming, where players are often forced to abide by the connections and ports placed onto various consoles or controllers. For console gamers, specifically, a gaming headset can make a world of difference, as it gives them the ability to communicate with others without having to go through a multitude of extra steps.
Gaming headsets are a definite boon for gamers that enjoy a Surround Sound experience or want to engage in online play. Those that may feel overwhelmed by greater immersion or the overload of additional sounds that are brought in by a gaming headset may want to stick more with traditional headphones and earbuds.
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How Much Are Gaming Headsets?
It’s important to note that just because a company is lesser-known and offering a cheaper product does not mean it’s a “bad gaming headset.” In fact, there are many affordable headsets that lie in the $20 - $40 range that are more than enough for the average gamer and will still greatly enhance their gaming experience by offering superior comfort for extended listening times, as well as tuned drivers.
Those that are looking for something higher-end, that is capable of producing the best sound quality while simultaneously providing players with additional tuning options via companion software and equalizers should expect to pay close to $100 or over. Gaming headsets come in a multitude of shapes and sizes, with varying price points that should appeal to anyone.
