In the dynamic world of PC gaming, the quest for the perfect gaming headset is as intense as the games themselves. In 2019, a wide array of headsets vied for the top spot, offering gamers an immersive audio experience, comfort for long sessions, and the competitive edge needed for victory. This article takes a deep dive into the best PC gaming headsets of that year, scrutinizing every aspect from sound quality to comfort, and connectivity to professional preferences. Whether you’re a casual player or a serious competitor, this retrospective will shed light on which headsets stood out in the crowded market of 2019.
Key Takeaways
- The best PC gaming headsets of 2019 were judged on criteria including audio quality, comfort, build quality, and special features like THX profiles.
- Category winners ranged from the best overall gaming headset to the best budget-friendly and open-back options, catering to diverse needs and preferences.
- Audio performance was paramount, with factors like driver size, frequency response, and sound profiles playing a significant role in the evaluation process.
- Compatibility with multiple platforms and the choice between wired and wireless connectivity were key considerations for gamers looking for a versatile headset.
- Professional gamers’ preferences influenced the market, with emphasis on the durability, reliability, and microphone quality of headsets used in competitive play.
Crowning the Champions: The Finest PC Gaming Headsets of 2019
Criteria for Selection
In the quest to crown the best PC gaming headsets of 2019, our selection process is rigorous and multifaceted. Sound quality is paramount; we meticulously analyze a set playlist of music tracks to gauge the audio performance. But it’s not just about the sound. The build quality and ergonomics of each headset are scrutinized to ensure they can withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions.
The design is a critical aspect, from the durability of materials to the intuitiveness of control placement. Comfort is non-negotiable, as gamers often wear headsets for extended periods.
Connectivity options and additional features also play a significant role in our evaluation. We consider how each headset integrates with different platforms and whether it offers any unique capabilities that enhance the gaming experience. Below is a summary of our key criteria:
- Design and Ergonomics
- Sound Quality
- Build Quality
- Connectivity and Special Features
Our editors have compared to other brands and included notable mentions that stand out in each category, ensuring that our recommendations are well-rounded and recommended by our editors.
Top Contenders and Their Features
In the quest to find the best PC gaming headset of 2019, several models have risen to the top, each boasting unique features that cater to different gamer needs. The contenders stand out for their exceptional audio quality, comfort, and immersive gaming experience.
- Astro A50 X Wireless: Known for its premium sound and comfort, the Astro A50 X Wireless headset has been a favorite among gamers. The recent comparison with the Audeze Maxwell Wireless highlights its continued relevance in the market.
- Audeze Maxwell Wireless: This headset has gained attention for its refined sound and advanced noise cancellation features. Despite its higher price tag, it remains a sought-after choice for discerning gamers.
- HyperX Cloud III: Added as a Notable Mention, the HyperX Cloud III offers a balance of quality and affordability, making it an excellent option for gamers on a budget.
- Sony INZONE Buds Truly Wireless: As a recent addition to the Notable Mentions, these buds provide gamers with a truly wireless experience without compromising on sound quality.
The selection process for the top gaming headsets of 2019 has been meticulous, with a focus on the latest technological advancements and user feedback. The headsets listed here represent the pinnacle of gaming audio equipment for the year.
Expert Opinions and Reviews
When it comes to expert opinions, the landscape is vast and varied. David Carnoy of CNET has been a prominent figure in the industry, known for his meticulous reviews that span a wide range of gadgets, including gaming headsets. His insights are backed by years of experience and a commitment to providing honest feedback.
PCMag.com stands out as a bastion of lab-tested, objective reviews. Their comprehensive approach ensures that every product is scrutinized under controlled conditions, offering readers a reliable source of information for making informed decisions.
The best gaming headphones we’ve tested are the Audeze Maxwell Wireless.
RTINGS.com is another heavyweight in the realm of tech reviews, with a systematic methodology that includes versioned review categories, ensuring that their content is always up-to-date and relevant. Their reviews are a go-to resource for many gamers looking to get insider access to the latest in audio technology.
Breaking Down the Best: Category Winners
Best Overall Gaming Headset
In the quest for the ultimate gaming experience, the Razer Blackshark V2 emerges as the best overall gaming headset of 2019. With its impeccable balance of quality, comfort, and performance, it stands out from the competition. The headset’s 50 mm drivers deliver a frequency response range of 12 Hz to 28 kHz, ensuring detailed highs and deep lows. While it’s wired, the lack of wireless connectivity is offset by its excellent sound and comfortable earcups.
The Razer Blackshark V2 is not just about sound; it’s also about the experience. The inclusion of THX profiles enhances the audio for a cinematic feel, particularly in games that support this feature. However, it’s worth noting that the fit can be tricky for some users, and the list of THX-supported games is still growing.
The Razer Blackshark V2’s combination of audio quality, comfort, and THX profiles makes it a top choice for gamers seeking a premium auditory experience without breaking the bank.
When considering the best overall gaming headset, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Razer Blackshark V2 |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | PC, PS5, PS4, Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S |
| Drivers | 50 mm |
| Frequency Response | 12 Hz – 28 kHz |
| Wireless | No |
| Weight | 8.5 ounces |
Despite a few drawbacks, the Razer Blackshark V2’s superior sound and comfort make it the top pick for gamers in 2019.
Best Upper Mid-Range Headset
In the quest for the perfect blend of performance and value, the HyperX Cloud Orbit S stands out as a paragon in the upper mid-range category. With its utilization of planar magnetic drivers, typically found in much pricier headphones, this headset delivers luxury-level audio without breaking the bank. The 3D spatial audio and head tracking features provide an immersive gaming experience, while the detachable microphone ensures clear communication by effectively subduing background noises.
The HyperX Cloud Orbit S not only offers multi-system compatibility but also comes with three connectivity options, making it a versatile choice for gamers who play across different platforms.
When considering the price range for a quality gaming headset, the HyperX Cloud Orbit S hits the sweet spot. It offers features that are often reserved for more expensive models, such as active noise cancellation and a robust build quality, making it an excellent investment for serious gamers.
Best Budget-Friendly Headset
In the quest for the best budget-friendly gaming headset, the Logitech G432 emerges as a top contender. These wired headphones are not only affordable but also boast a 1/8" TRRS cable, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. The G432’s closed-back design and dynamic transducer offer a solid audio experience without breaking the bank.
Another excellent option for cost-conscious gamers is the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2. It’s praised for its comfortable fit, straightforward design, and reliable performance across both PCs and consoles. The Cloud Stinger 2 epitomizes the ‘plug and play’ ethos, delivering quality sound without any fuss.
For those who prioritize value, the Razer Kraken V3 X stands out as the best budget wired gaming headset. It’s a testament to how a well-constructed headset can provide an immersive gaming experience without a hefty price tag.
While the Turtle Beach Ear Force Stealth 600 Gen 2 may not be the pinnacle of wireless headsets, it’s a commendable budget option for PlayStation users, offering a good feature set for its price.
Best Open-Back Headset for Gamers
When it comes to open-back gaming headsets, the Drop + Sennheiser/EPOS PC38X stands out for its exceptional comfort and sound quality. Despite its open-back design, which may not be ideal for noisy environments, the PC38X offers a natural soundscape that’s perfect for immersive gaming sessions.
The headset’s lightweight build and professional appearance make it a versatile choice, not just for gaming but also for studio-like recording sessions. With two sets of earpads, gamers can customize their comfort level, choosing between the plush feel of velour or the breathability of mesh-knit.
The PC38X’s angled drivers are a game-changer, providing precise audio cues that allow gamers to pinpoint in-game sounds with remarkable accuracy.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the PC38X’s key features:
- Type: Over-ear, Open-Back
- Connectivity: Wired
- Transducer: Dynamic
- Microphone: Yes
- Weight: 253 grams
- Additional: Two sets of earpads (velour and mesh-knit)
The Sound of Victory: Audio Quality and Performance
Drivers and Frequency Response
When it comes to the auditory experience in gaming, the quality of the headset’s drivers and its frequency response are pivotal. The Beyerdynamic MMX 300 (2nd Generation) stands out with its impressive frequency response range of 5 – 35,000 Hz, ensuring that every explosion, footstep, and dialogue is heard with crystal clarity.
The Kraken Kitty V2 Pro, with its TriForce 50mm drivers, strikes a harmonious balance across different sound frequencies, providing an immersive gaming experience. The headset’s HyperClear Cardioid Mic is engineered to minimize background noise, allowing for clear in-game communication.
The selection of a headset with the right drivers and frequency response can significantly enhance the gaming experience, offering a competitive edge and deeper immersion.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two mentioned headsets:
| Brand | Model | Driver Size | Frequency Response | Mic Type | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beyerdynamic | MMX 300 (2nd Gen) | Not specified | 5 – 35,000 Hz | Cardioid Condenser | 332 grams |
| Razer | Kraken Kitty V2 Pro | 50mm TriForce | Not specified | Detachable HyperClear Cardioid | Not specified |
Comfort and Build Quality
When it comes to long gaming sessions, comfort is paramount. Gamers need to ensure that their headset can be worn for extended periods without causing discomfort. Factors such as padding, weight distribution, and adjustability play a crucial role in this regard.
Build quality is equally important, as a durable headset can withstand the rigors of daily use and the occasional mishap. The materials used, from the headband to the ear cups, contribute to both the longevity and the overall feel of the headset. Some headsets manage to offer a premium feel with a surprisingly modest price tag, making them hard to beat in terms of value.
It’s essential to consider the return policy when purchasing a headset. A reputable source will allow you to return the product if it doesn’t meet your expectations in terms of comfort or build quality.
Here’s a quick checklist to keep in mind:
- Padding and cushioning
- Weight and balance
- Adjustability and fit
- Material quality and durability
- Manufacturer’s warranty and return policy
Special Features and THX Profiles
In the realm of PC gaming headsets, special features can significantly enhance the gaming experience. Many top-tier headsets come equipped with customizable sound profiles, allowing users to tailor their audio experience for different gaming scenarios. For instance, the use of Dolby Atmos and other virtual surround sound technologies provides a more immersive experience, making it easier to pinpoint the direction of footsteps or gunfire in-game.
Customization doesn’t stop at sound profiles. Advanced EQ settings are a staple for gamers who want to fine-tune their audio. Whether it’s for clarity in dialogue, the depth of explosions, or the subtleties of an in-game soundtrack, the ability to adjust EQ presets is crucial. Some headsets even offer sound personalization features that adapt to the user’s listening preferences, ensuring that every game sounds just right.
THX profiles take this customization a step further by offering finely-tuned audio settings designed to replicate the exact studio environment in which a game’s sound was created. This level of detail can give players a competitive edge, making it easier to react to in-game cues.
Connectivity is another area where gaming headsets strive to excel. Many models offer multiple connection options, including wireless dongles that maintain low latency, essential for keeping audio and video in sync during gameplay.
Compatibility and Connectivity: Finding Your Perfect Match
Multi-Platform Support
In the realm of PC gaming headsets, multi-platform support is a crucial feature for gamers who own multiple devices. The best headsets offer seamless compatibility across different systems, ensuring a consistent audio experience whether you’re on PC, console, or mobile.
- PC (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Consoles (Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch)
- Mobile Devices (iOS, Android)
The ideal gaming headset connects effortlessly with various platforms, providing flexibility and convenience for gamers who switch between devices.
Some headsets even allow users to connect wirelessly with PCs, Xbox, and PlayStation, highlighting their versatility. When considering a multi-platform gaming headset, it’s important to check for compatibility with all your devices to ensure the best gaming experience.
Wired vs. Wireless Considerations
When it comes to choosing between wired and wireless gaming headsets, the debate often centers on the balance between convenience and performance. Wireless headsets offer the freedom to move without the encumbrance of cables, but some users worry about potential latency issues that could affect gameplay.
However, advancements in technology have largely mitigated these concerns. For instance, modern wireless headsets using 2.4GHz radio connections are reported to have zero perceptible difference in latency when compared to their wired counterparts. This revelation comes from blind tests with professional gamers, indicating that for the average user, the choice between wired and wireless may come down to personal preference rather than technical superiority.
While wireless technology has come a long way, some gamers still prefer the reliability and ‘snappiness’ of a wired connection, especially in competitive settings where every millisecond counts.
Compatibility is another key factor. Some headsets are designed to connect wirelessly with multiple platforms, including PCs, Xbox, and PlayStation, offering versatility for gamers who use different systems. On the other hand, wired headsets are often praised for their consistent performance and are a staple in many gaming setups.
Software Integration and Customization
The ability to integrate and customize your gaming headset through software is a game-changer for many enthusiasts. Manufacturers offer proprietary software that allows users to adjust sound profiles, set up surround sound, and even control RGB lighting to match their gaming setup or mood.
- Logitech G HUB: Customize sound profiles, assign macros to G-keys, and manage RGB lighting.
- Razer Synapse: Offers extensive equalizer settings, THX Spatial Audio customization, and Chroma RGB synchronization.
- SteelSeries Engine: Create personalized soundscapes and manage Prism RGB lighting effects.
- Corsair iCUE: Adjust audio settings, configure surround sound, and synchronize RGB lighting across devices.
The right software can elevate your gaming experience, providing you with the tools to tailor your headset to your exact preferences. It’s not just about sound; it’s about creating an immersive environment that resonates with your personal style.
From the Esports Arena to Your Desk: What Professionals Prefer
Headsets Used by Esports Champions
In the high-stakes world of competitive gaming, the choice of headset can be as crucial as the skills of the players themselves. Esports champions select headsets that can withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions, ensuring durability and comfort are at the forefront. For instance, the Logitech G Pro X 2 is a popular choice among pros for its robust build quality.
Comfort is another non-negotiable feature, with headsets like the HyperX Cloud II offering memory foam padding to support prolonged use. Clear communication is vital in team-based games, making features like the noise-canceling microphone on the Corsair Void RGB Elite a standard for professional play.
While sponsorships may influence the gear that esports professionals use during streams and public appearances, many still prefer to use their personal favorite headsets during actual competition, highlighting the importance of reliability and performance over brand partnerships.
The following list showcases some of the preferred headsets among esports legends:
- Alexander "s1mple" Kostylev – Logitech G Pro X 2
- Player X – HyperX Cloud II
- Player Y – Corsair Void RGB Elite
These headsets are not just for show; they are battle-tested tools that help turn the tide of competition in favor of those who are well-equipped.
Durability and Reliability in Competitive Play
In the high-stakes world of esports, the durability and reliability of gaming headsets are non-negotiable. Professional gamers often engage in marathon sessions, necessitating equipment that can endure prolonged use without compromising performance. The Logitech G Pro X 2, for instance, is renowned for its robust build quality, featuring aluminum parts and a steel frame, making it a popular choice among top competitors like Alexander "s1mple" Kostylev.
Comfort is another critical factor that can’t be overlooked. Headsets such as the HyperX Cloud II are favored for their memory foam padding, ensuring comfort during extended periods of play. This is essential, as even minor distractions can be detrimental in a competitive environment.
While wireless headsets offer convenience for casual play, in the realm of professional gaming, wired headsets are the standard. They provide a stable, lag-free connection that is vital during tournaments where every millisecond counts.
Professionals also demand headsets with noise-canceling microphones for clear team communication. The Corsair Void RGB Elite is a testament to this, with its high-quality microphone being a key feature for esports champions.
The Importance of a Quality Microphone
In the realm of competitive gaming, clear communication can be the difference between victory and defeat. A quality microphone is crucial for ensuring that every command and strategy is conveyed with precision. The best gaming headsets integrate advanced noise-canceling microphones that filter out unwanted background noise, allowing for a focus on the gamer’s voice.
The microphone’s ability to capture audio accurately not only benefits in-game communication but also enhances the overall gaming experience. A subpar microphone can lead to misunderstandings and frustration, which is why serious gamers invest in headsets with superior mic quality.
Microphone clarity is not just about noise cancellation; it’s also about the mic’s design and how it captures the user’s voice. For instance, the Audio-Technica ATH-G1’s hypercardioid mic is engineered to pinpoint voice direction, ensuring that the user’s voice is the main focus. Here are some key aspects to consider when evaluating a gaming headset’s microphone:
- Noise-canceling capabilities
- Design and positioning of the microphone
- Detachable vs. fixed microphones
- Wireless vs. wired microphone performance
While features like cord length and RGB lighting may catch the eye, the microphone’s quality should never be overlooked. After all, in the heat of battle, it’s the clarity of your callouts that could lead your team to triumph.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through the best PC gaming headsets of 2019, it’s clear that the market offered a plethora of outstanding options catering to different preferences and budgets. From the immersive audio experience provided by top-tier models to the budget-friendly choices that still deliver quality sound and comfort, each headset on our list has the potential to elevate your gaming sessions. While newer models and technologies continue to emerge, as seen in our related articles for 2024, the headsets of 2019 set a solid foundation for what gamers expect in terms of performance and durability. Whether you’re revisiting this list to find a classic favorite or comparing past gems with current offerings, the headsets we’ve highlighted stand as a testament to the innovation and quality that the year 2019 brought to the gaming world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key features to look for in a PC gaming headset?
When choosing a PC gaming headset, look for key features such as sound quality, comfort, build quality, microphone clarity, compatibility with different platforms, and whether it offers wired or wireless connectivity.
How important is surround sound in gaming headsets?
Surround sound can provide a more immersive gaming experience by allowing players to hear the direction of sounds in a game, which can be particularly important in competitive gaming to detect opponents.
What’s the difference between open-back and closed-back headsets?
Open-back headsets allow air to pass through their ear cups to the speaker element, resulting in a more natural and spacious sound. Closed-back headsets isolate sound to prevent leakage and provide a more intense direct audio experience.
Can I use a gaming headset for other activities like listening to music or watching movies?
Yes, gaming headsets can be used for listening to music or watching movies. Many are designed to provide high-quality audio that is suitable for a variety of multimedia experiences.
Are wireless gaming headsets as good as wired ones?
Wireless gaming headsets offer the convenience of no cables and have improved significantly in terms of sound quality and latency. However, audiophiles and professional gamers may still prefer wired headsets for their consistency and zero lag.
What should I consider when looking for a budget-friendly gaming headset?
For budget-friendly gaming headsets, consider the quality of sound and microphone, comfort for long gaming sessions, durability, and whether it has the necessary compatibility with your gaming platform.
