Gaming headsets bring together all the important audio elements a gamer needs and are usually ready for action straight out of the box, so the set-up requirements are minimal. This makes them ideal for people who just want to dive into their game quickly and enjoy a more immersive experience, without disturbing the people around them. Many headsets are packaged in vibrant colours and feature the kind of designs which could appeal to younger players, but there are also many options with a subtler finish.
Before the development of amplifiers, headsets were the only way to listen to audio signals from telephones (as the signal was otherwise too quiet to be heard). While headphones are almost as old as telephones themselves, the Model-T of headphones was designed by Nathaniel Baldwin in 1910. His headphones were handmade in his own home, which he later marketed and sold to the United States Navy. As first phonographs and then vinyl players became a more regular part of people’s home, so too did headphones. They allowed the listener to enjoy their music without bothering those around them, ideal for families who owned multiple music players. Headsets, which are headphones that also feature a microphone, were to stay mainly in use in those areas where communicating with others was vital. Headsets were most likely to be found used by pilots and military serviceman, as well as telephone operators – they were rarely used by the general public.
The advent of high-speed internet changed this paradigm, as communicating with others became something that almost anybody could do (whereas before you needed to communicate on a specific radio channel). While this found use in telecommunication platforms, it also spread to gaming (particularly in online, multiplayer games). Headsets were mostly used in shooter games for PC like Battlefield and Counter-Strike, but also found use in MMORPG titles like World of Warcraft and Everquest. It wasn’t long before headsets and voice-communication spread to console gaming. Popular shooting titles like Halo or the Call of Duty were to become dominated by chatter between players, which sometimes spilt into arguments and crude jokes.
Today, most games are multiplayer by default, so consoles come pre-packed with a gaming headset that allows you to communicate with other players online from the get-go. That doesn’t mean you should settle for the headset you receive with your console. Read on to see which headset is best for your needs and the console that you own.
The number one consideration before you purchase a gaming headset should the console or platform you intend to play on. Many gaming headsets have been created for only the PlayStation, Xbox or PC, so failing to pay attention to the compatibility of your headset may lead to some wasted time and frustration. There are some headsets which are universal, which we’ll cover as well:
PS4 – Headsets which are officially licensed to the PS4 console may include a few bonus features. These could be customisable audio for certain PS4 games and swift wireless connectivity with the console. If you are loyal to your PS4 and want a seamless experience in terms of connectivity, as well as sound optimisation, a product like the PS4 Gold Wireless Headset could be your best buy.
PC – There are some extremely powerful gaming computers on the market at the moment and to fully appreciate their capabilities, you can buy gaming headsets for PC titles. They are designed to be comfortable enough for extended wear, but also feature outstanding sound quality that could not be achieved with a general use headset. Some, like the Razer Nari Ultimate, include features like vibrating ear cups to make the play even more immersive. When you are a dedicated PC gamer, one of these headsets can be the perfect finishing touch to your rig.
Xbox One – Developed to provide rich audio and effortless connectivity with the Xbox One, these licensed headsets can also include adaptors for the first-gen Xbox One and enhanced voice communications that work solely on this console. Competitive gamers can find gaming headsets for Xbox One like the Turtle Beach XO that will provide astoundingly accurate audio for titles like Fortnite, allowing you to detect enemies immediately. For regular Xbox One gamers who want to improve their performance in multiplayer, these licensed headsets are well worth considering.
Universal Gaming Headsets – As the name suggests, these all-purpose headsets are designed to work equally well with every machine. They are available to suit all budgets and only lack a few of the functions which you could get with a licensed headset. If you want a good all-rounder that’s flexible enough to work with all your consoles and won’t cost too much, these are a great choice.
Aside from obvious consideration like which console you own, there are 5 further elements that we think you should consider before buying a gaming PC. While some of these are a matter of taste, some are more objective factors which should apply to anybody who’s currently looking around for a decent gaming headset for cheap:
Wireless vs. Wired - Wireless headsets have become more prominent in recent years. The most obvious advantage of them is that you won’t have any annoying wires dangling right in front of your controller. Most gamers have made the experience of accidentally ripping their microphone out at precisely the wrong time – something which can often lead to being killed or losing a vital game. Wired headphones still have some advantages, such as lossless audio quality. We’ll cover the best wireless headphones in a section below
Comfort – We all want a headset that appeals visually, but if your games tend to run into hours then comfort is another key concern. Lighter versions are often the most popular because the wearer is less conscious of having them rested on his or her head. Other than that, it is worth looking out for ear cups that rotate with your movements, a cushioned headband to add extra softness and cups of varying depths, as these factors can all make a substantial difference over longer periods of time.
Audio Quality – Communicating with other people while playing online is essential to keep a game flowing and to be a winner. In terms of transmitting audio, look for versions which feature noise cancellation to block out unwanted sounds and keep your chat clear. You may also want a boom mic which moves up or down or is removable, so it adapts quickly when you are playing alone. As for sending audio, high-quality headphones ensure that you can still hear what other players are saying over the various noises playing on your main speaker. For more casual players, standard stereo versions are going to be perfectly acceptable, especially as most games use damage indicators and tonal differences to highlight sound direction.
Open vs. Closed - Open back gaming headsets like the Audio-Technica ATH-ADG1X, keep your ears cooler by allowing for more airflow. On the flip side, this looser fit means you may hear ambient noise and people sitting close will also be able to pick up some of your audio feed. If you are more concerned with blocking out any extraneous noise and happy with a closer fit, a closed-back headset will help you to stay competitive in the noisiest of locations.
Longevity – If you want to buy a cheap gaming headset to get you through the next year, almost any pair will do. People looking for a longer-term investment will need to consider the type of materials used and the build quality, before selecting the ideal set. To cut the cost of cheaper headsets, many manufacturers stick with plastic parts that can break easily. More costly materials like aluminium are used in constructing the frames of mid-range headsets like the Cloud Alpha, while in more expensive versions like the RIG 800LX Wireless Dolby Atmos Gaming Headset, you can expect memory foam ear cushions which have been designed to last
Although they are generally considered to be more expensive, there are many bargains to be found when it comes to getting your hands on a wireless gaming headset. However, if you’re looking for a wireless headset that’s going to last, it’s better to stick to tried and tested brands. Here are a few of our favourites plus some quality headphones from each one:
Logitech – A Logitech gaming headset like the G933 Artemis Spectrum Wireless, offers 7.1 surround sound and you can also answer calls during a game. While these wireless headphones are at the very top of the price range (they currently retail for around £170), snapping up one of these during a sale will give you a pair of wireless headphone that you’ll be using for life.
Corsair – While Corsair is best known for the mice and keyboards, they also produce quality gaming headsets for both PC and consoles. The Corsair H270 Wireless 7.1 Gaming Headset gives you strong surround sound and virtual surround sound and is a great gaming headset for PC or PS4.
Razer – Established in 2005 by Singaporean entrepreneur Min-Liang Tan, Razer has become one of the biggest gaming equipment brands in the world, with it being particularly popular in the eSports world. They focus on going beyond the classic features of gaming headsets, creating devices that provide an even more immersive experience. The Razer Nari Essential Wireless has THX Spatial Audio that gives you a 360 degree sound experience, going beyond the two-channel surround sound of other headsets – a great feature for anyone playing FPS or Battle Royale titles.
One question on the minds of a lot of games is whether wireless headphones are going to give you the edge when gaming. Although wired headphones offer rich sound quality and are cheaper, many gamers prefer the flexibility of wireless headphones. They allow you to move around more freely and don’t have you constantly having to consider the position of your headphone cable when gaming. These benefits come at a price, which can often be off-putting for many gamers. So, while wireless headsets are better for gaming, you have to weigh up whether the cost is worthwhile. Of course, by keeping an eye out on these listings, you can nab a deal for some quality wireless gaming headsets, so keep your eyes peeled.
While hardcore gamers may be happy to go into the triple digits for a gaming headset, most gamers will be happy to get a headset that goes slightly beyond the standard features of default headsets and that doesn’t break the bank. Here are a few select gaming headsets that give you just what you need for less than £50 standard retail:
Lioncast LX20 –- You might not get the level of sound quality that you would with a more expensive headset, but a solid headset like the Lioncast LX20 delivers acceptable stereo sound. You’ll get all the essential features you need for less than £40.
Corsair HS50 – While this headset only delivers stereo sound as opposed to surround sound, it’s a deficit that most casual gamers aren’t going to miss or notice. The headphones themselves are also really comfortable and the headset overall has been built to last.
Astro A10 – These budget headphones from Astro are ideal for anybody who wants to do more talking than listening (we’re looking at you FPS gamers). You can mute and unmute the microphone simply by flipping the headset up and down. The sound quality itself is nothing special, but more than enough to hear whatever insults the opposite team is screaming at you.
Corsair HS70 – Probably the cheapest wireless headset available right now, the Corsair H70 headset give you a bunch of fantastic features like 7.1-channel surround sound and on-ear controls at about half the price of standard headphones. That being said, its microphone isn’t the greatest in the world, so beware of this before you buy.
Whether you want to keep your headset packed away safely, or ensure it can be used with a wider range of consoles, there are accessories to get the job done.
Headset Stands - You can buy stands to match the brand you have or universal versions that will support any headset. These can help to keep a smaller gaming area tidy and free from clutter, but also provide a safe place for storing your headset. Some, like the Razer Base Station Chroma are USB enabled so they can produce various lighting effects.
Carry Cases – If you travel or commute frequently and want to transport your favourite headset without leaving it vulnerable to damage, there are soft and hard shell carry cases to provide protection. Some versions have a separate pouch for cables, while others have a shoulder strap and are large enough for many other accessories.
Adaptors – To use a universal headset that is not designed to work with your console, you can buy an adaptor. They often fit onto the controller and your headset plugs in afterwards. This links your headset to the console, but also in-game chats and the TV. If you are particularly fond of a headset that doesn’t fit onto your PC or console, an adaptor can solve the problem in seconds.
Gaming headsets may be an extra expense, but they do have some advantages over using a normal pair of headphones. But, they’re by no means a necessity for gaming, and may even have disadvantages for certain gamers. Here’s some of the key pros and cons:
Pros
Plenty of different types of headset available from trusted brands
The set up with a console or PC takes seconds to complete
Many headsets are priced affordably
An all-in-one solution for most audio-based gaming needs
A great way of gaming without affecting the people around you
Cons
The balance is often heavier on the bass than it needs to be
Cheaper versions are usually made with low-quality fragile materials
You can pay more just for the name if you buy a trending brand
When you are looking for a cheap gaming headset, you’ll find deals listed from all the top high street sellers at hotukdeals. The likes of Argos, Currys and Very all have headsets to suit most systems, but a wider selection of specialist versions can be found at Game or Amazon.
To find a cheap gaming headset, you can concentrate on shopping during the traditional sales periods, that is around Christmas, bank holidays and in spring or summer. At other times of the year, you can sometimes get gaming headset deals on great brands during flash sales. Alternatively, if you can wait for the Black Friday event in November, many UK stores offer huge reductions of up to 60% on their technology and gaming departments.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re looking for high-tech wireless headsets, or low-cost budget versions, there’s always an opportunity to save money when buying gaming headsets. Buy smart and consult the right sources before you buy. You’ll always find the best deals from the top sellers on hotukdeals.
