What to look for in a gaming headset

Finding a gaming headset that fits your setup, and your needs, is as easy as prioritizing which of the following features matters most to you:

• Sound quality: A full, rich audio response with plenty of detail and bass will help bring your games to life.
• Microphone: Do you prefer a detachable or retractable boom mic? Do you need high-quality detail?
• Comfort: Do you prefer over-ear headphones with thick pads, or smaller, on-ear pads that are lighter on your head?
• Battery life: If your headset is wireless, consider how long it’ll last between charges. At least 20 hours is a good benchmark.
• Active Noise Cancellation: Higher-end headsets feature the ability to blot out background noise.
• Design: Express yourself with unique colorways and RGB lighting
• Software customization and features: Consider software surround sound technology and more customization focused on streaming and gaming.

Are gaming headsets worth it?

There are a lot of non-gaming headphones out there, and you may even have a pair. And while these work fine in a pinch, arming your PC or console gaming setup with a gaming-focused headset can make a real difference. For one, this category of headphones is tuned for gaming with frequency responses meant to give you focus and immersive sound. You’ll also find RGB LED options for extra gaming flair, and the boom microphones often found on these headsets are designed to give you clarity and punch when chatting in-game or streaming.