How do Gaming Headsets Work?

Beth Huston Avatar

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Updated Jun 27, 2022 11:13 PM

If you’re wondering, “How do gaming headsets work?” then you’re in the right place. Today we’ll explore wireless headsets, wired headsets, and the qualities that make each perfect for gaming.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • All gaming headsets should come with a microphone input so that you can engage in wireless chat audio while playing.
  • There are two options for connection availability. You can choose either a wireless connection or wired gaming headsets.
  • Several benefits exist for using a headset made specifically for gaming. You’ll enjoy 3D audio, a more comfortable headset, and a higher-quality sound.

The best gaming headset will offer fantastic sound quality for gaming, whether on a mobile device or with a console controller in hand.

What is a Gaming Headset?

An excellent gaming headset will make every game sound perfect, whether on a mobile device or console. Beyond excellent audio quality, they also allow you to engage in chat audio.

Of course, even the best wireless gaming headsets will still malfunction on occasion. Our article, “Gaming Headset Speaker and Microphone Both Don’t Work at the Same Time,” explains more.

Standard Features of a Gaming Headset

You can expect a few standard features from the gaming headset market. An excellent gaming headset will include great audio quality, a high-frequency range, and active noise cancellation.

Insider Tip

Expensive headsets are generally worth the price since they provide a wide range of features, like 3D audio.

However, there are features you should expect even with a limit on price range. We’ll explore the two significant features even a cheap headset should have below.

Built-in Microphone Attachment

The best thing about a pair of headphones made specifically for a gaming setup is their mic quality. This allows for easy communication, whether you’re a console gamer or a mobile gamer.

If the sound quality is great, but you struggle with ambient noise, you might be wondering, “How do I make my gaming headset microphone louder?” There is a wide range of ways you can do that.

Connection Availability

There are a couple of connections available: a headphone jack and USB connections. Wired headsets use the audio jack, while wireless gaming headsets have a USB dongle.

Here are a couple of audio input options a wireless connection might use:

  • USB-C dongle
  • Micro USB

The Benefits of Using a Gaming Headset

There is a wide range of reasons you should choose a pair of headphones explicitly made to improve your gaming experience:

  • Inclusion of virtual surround sound for better game audio
  • Better microphone quality for multiplayer games
  • Higher level of background noise cancellation

Warning

While a stylish design is tempting, always choose comfortable, premium materials over appearance.

F.A.Q.S

Is a wireless or a wired USB headset better for gaming?

Wireless headsets are gaining in popularity since a wired connection limits a wider range of movement. However, you need to consider the hours of battery life available for the model you choose.


Are expensive headsets actually better than cheap headsets?

Budget headsets are appealing because of their affordable price. However, professionals reach for an excellent gaming headset even with a higher price for a wide range of reasons:

  • Better audio output for a more balanced sound
  • More comfortable design for gaming over long periods of time
  • Longer hours of battery life for wireless options

Are in-ear headphones worth it for those with a limited budget?

If you aren’t serious about gaming, the lower price range of headphones is tempting. However, they’re more prone to audio cable damage, won’t produce robust sound, and can’t provide excellent performance.


How do I choose the best option on the gaming headset market?

The biggest consideration is what you’re gaming on and what additional connections you might require. There is a wide range of options at an affordable price, but the best option is a Dolby headphone model.


STAT: Exposure to sound levels above 85 dB (equal to a lawnmower or leaf blower) can cause possible ear damage with exposure of more than two hours. (source)

Beth Huston Avatar

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