Whether you are exploring the vast regions in Horizon Zero Dawn or focusing on enemy footsteps in Valorant, no gaming setup is complete without a quality pair of headphones. The market is flooded with a variety of options, but if you are looking for the best gaming headphones, then you need to do some research. Apart from sound quality, there are a bunch of factors that you need to consider. Thankfully, we have made the process a bit more convenient by listing some options, and a few some of the things that you should consider before buying a near pair of gaming headphones.
Choosing the right gaming headphones
Audio performance
The most important consideration is the sound quality and performance. This is also a very subjective matter as every user has a particular preference depending on different use cases. Since we are strictly talking about gaming, my recommendation would be to stay away from headphones that prioritize low frequencies or in simpler terms, bass over everything else. It makes a lot more sense to have audio drivers that are balanced and offer features like surround sound so you can get a cinematic experience, at the same time have no issue hearing footsteps and sound queues to get a competitive advantage. Most entry level gaming headphones are going to offer a simple stereo solution, but there are quite a few options that market features like THX Spatial Audio, 7.1 channel support, DTS, and more.Design and build
When it comes to the design, there are two main aspects. First of all is the build and quality part while the other is whether you want to go wired or wireless. Now build quality is obviously important as you would want your headphones to last long. Make sure that the headband is solid, yet offers enough flexibility to wrap around your head. Cheaper headphones will have a simple plastic frame, but if you can spend a little more money, you can get a mix of metal, plastic and soft fabric materials. Also, having proper padding over drivers with quality memory foam will ensure that you have a comfortable fit. A few headphones also come with replaceable ear pads, which is an excellent way to extend the life of the product.
Like gaming mice and keyboards, gaming headphones are also available with wireless connectivity. It is best that you don’t rely only on Bluetooth as it is susceptible to latency issues. Essentially if you are planning to take the wireless route, go for a pair that comes with a dedicated wireless receiver. Additionally, if you can get a pair of wireless headphones that also offers wired connectivity, then there is nothing like it. Make sure the cable is strong and braided, but not too stiff that it leads to cable noise.
Microphone
A dedicated microphone is a better option, but most gaming headphones come with a built-in microphone. The audio quality is always a compromise here, but they can definitely be used for regular in-game comms. Be on the lookout for additional microphone features like a Discord compatibility, quick mute option, and even the ability to remove the microphone altogether. List of best gaming headphones in India 2022
| Model | Price |
| JBL Quantum 100 | Rs 2,799 |
| ASUS TUF Gaming H3 | Rs 3,459 |
| HyperX Cloud Stinger Core | Rs 3,029 |
| SteelSeries Arctis 1 | Rs 4,999 |
| EPOS H3 | Rs 6,521 |
| Logitech G435 | Rs 6,995 |
| HyperX Cloud Alpha | Rs 7,990 |
| Logitech G PRO X | Rs 13,295 |
| Creative SXFI Gamer | Rs 13,387 |
| Razer Kraken V3 HyperSense | Rs 18,459 |
JBL Quantum 100
You can purchase the Quantum 100 gaming headset from JBL’s own website for Rs 2,799. It is also available on Amazon for a slightly discounted price.
JBL Quantum 500 review
The build quality of JBL Quantum 500 isn’t really the best, but it offers great microphone quality. The headphones offer a decent low-latency sound performance, however the sound quality may seem inconsistent at times.
Pros:-Microphone quality is good
-Low latency
-Lightweight designCons:
-Inconsistent sound quality
-Flimsy build
ASUS TUF Gaming H3
The TUF Gaming brand is a budget focused series from ASUS and includes a range of hardware as well as peripherals. The TUF Gaming H3 is a really good gaming headphone available at an affordable price range. Expect a solid balance of comfort and sound quality as well as clear mic audio from this headset. It comes with 50mm audio drivers with 7.1 surround sound support, and the headset is officially Discord certified. Other notable features include a faux leather finish with fast cooling memory foam, a stainless-steel headband, and support for all PCs, consoles and mobile devices.
The TUF Gaming H3 is currently selling as low as Rs 3,459. It can be purchased from Amazon and Flipkart.
ASUS TUF Gaming H3 review
ASUS TUF Gaming H3 headphones deliver decent sound quality as well as good mic quality. However, the build quality could be better. That being said, ASUS TUF Gaming H3 is great choice at this budget.
Pros:-Respectable sound quality
Cons:
-Good microphone quality
-Lightweight and comfortable-Plastic build can feel cheap
-Non removable\retracting microphone
Buy: Amazon
HyperX Cloud Stinger Core
A highly rated gaming headset, the HyperX Cloud Stinger Core (that’s mouthful), is our top recommendation if you are looking for something reliable under a budget of Rs 4,000. The headset has received positive feedback from reviewers as well as customers. It offers good sound quality and a comfortable design for long gaming sessions. The boom mic delivers clear audio and while it isn’t detachable, it can be rotated to quickly activate the mute function. The design isn’t as flashy as other gaming headphones on the market, but it is well built and comes with a 2-year warranty.
HyperX was recently taken over by HP so you can purchase them from their offline stores or head over to ecommerce portals Amazon and Flipkart. The headset is available for as low as Rs 3,029.
HyperX Cloud Stinger Core review
HyperX Cloud Stinger Core headphones offers great sound quality and decent mic audio quality. However, the build quality can feel a bit flimsy since its built with plastic. Pros:
-Comfortable to use
-Clear microphone quality
-Good sound performance
Cons:
-Simple plastic build
-Fit can vary depending on user
SteelSeries Arctis 1
Grab the SteelSeries Arctis 1 gaming headset from Amazon which is selling at a price tag of Rs 4,999.
SteelSeries Arctis 1 review
SteelSeries Arctis 1 headset is compatible with various devices including PC and mobile as well as consoles like PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One. The sound quality is spectacular and the headset has a removable mic. However, you shouldn’t expect premium build quality with these headphones.
Pros:
-Sleek and comfortable design
-Microphone can be removed
-Good sound performance
Cons:
-Simple plastic build
-Fit can vary depending on user
Buy: Amazon
EPOS H3
EPOS is a fairly new brand in the market which launched as a joint venture between Sennheiser and Demant, focusing on enterprise and gaming solutions. The EPOS range of headphones is meant for gamers who seek an amalgamation of great sound quality and an extremely comfortable design. The EPOS H3 is a closed acoustic gaming headset and currently one of the few models selling in India. It features a stainless steel band with easy adjustments and a snug fit that doesn’t protrude outside of your head. The company mentions the use of a high quality studio microphone and offers a nice feature where lifting the boom arm automatically sets the mic to mute. The sound signature is V-shaped, but it does have tighter bass and overall a wholesome experience. The headphones also offer a dedicated volume knob and removable audio cable.
The EPOS H3 is overpriced for the overall package, but it is currently selling at a discounted price of Rs 6,521 as opposed to Rs 9,990.
EPOS H3 review
EPOS H3 gaming headset offers great build quality as well as bass. The headset fits comfortably and comes with a high quality studio mic. The EPOS H3 headset is a great choice at its price range.
Pros:
-Refined sound with great bass quality
-Highly comfortable for long usage
-Good design and feel
Cons:
-Bundled wire gets tangled
-Pricey
Buy: Amazon
Logitech G435
Coming to the first solid wireless gaming headphone recommendation, the Logitech G435 is one the lightest wireless gaming headphones on the market today. It is available in a variety of peppy colours and offers both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connectivity via a bundled USB dongle. While noise isolation is not the best, the overall sound quality should be great for most users. It has dedicated controls right on the earcups, two embedded beamforming mics and a USB Type-C port for charging. Sadly there is no wired connectivity on this product, which can be a deal-breaker for some users. With the G435, Logitech is also focusing on sustainability, as it is claimed to be produced with zero impact on the carbon footprint, making it one of the most environmental friendly headphones.
The Logitech G435 launched in India for Rs 7,495 but is currently selling for Rs 6,995 on Amazon and Flipkart.
Logitech G435 review
The Logitech G435 delivers excellent sound quality and comes with a great form factor and build quality. The microphone audio quality is a bit low and sound isolation needs has room for improvement.
Pros:
-Carbon footprint neutral
-Super lightweight and comfortable
-Good battery life
Cons:
-Microphone audio could be better
-Sound isolation is not the best
-No multi-device pairing
HyperX Cloud Alpha
The HyperX Cloud Alpha is a highly praised gaming headset offering one of the best overall experiences in terms of build quality, sound and comfort. It features dual-chamber 50mm drivers delivering a well-balanced sound profile with good separation of bass from the mids and highs. They are quite comfortable with premium memory foam and soft leatherette material, at the same time the aluminum frame offers good durability. The headphones also come with a detachable noise-canceling microphone and the audio cable is also removable allowing for easy replacement. Apart from multi-platform support, the Cloud Alpha is also Discord certified.
The HyperX Cloud Alpha is selling for a discounted price of Rs 7,990 on Amazon.
HyperX Cloud Alpha review
HyperX Cloud Alpha features a comfortable form factor and great build quality. The headset has a detachable noise-cancelling mci along with a balanced sound profile, which is great for gaming.
Pros:
-Balanced sound profile
-Great build quality with comfortable design
-Removable mic and audio cable
Cons:
-Can feel bulky
-Bass delivery can be better
Buy: Amazon
Logitech G Pro X
The G Pro X is one of the best gaming headphones from Logitech. Primarily meant for professional gamers, you can expect them to offer the best comfort during long gaming sessions. These wired gaming headphones feature a premium steel and aluminum build quality while the sound is excellent with a balanced yet punchy profile. There are also various customisation options that can be controlled using Logitech’s dedicated G-Hub software. The headphones come with a detachable boom microphone that is backed up by Blue Vo!ce technology to offer the best audio during crucial in-game comms. Other important features include 500mm precision audio drivers, best-in-class memory foam padding, 7.1 surround sound, and a USB sound card for the best audio processing.
The Logitech G Pro X gaming headset is originally priced at Rs 15,995 but you can grab one for Rs 13,295 via Amazon and Rs 14,995 via Flipkart.
Logitech G Pro X review
The Logitech G Pro X is designed for pro gamers and it comes with a great build quality. The premium headset has a detachable boom mic that offers great audio quality. Along with these, G Pro X features 7.1 surround sound as well as USB sound to deliver excellent sound quality.
Pros:
-Solid construction and design
-Comfortable for long period
-Dedicated software for customisations
-Great microphone quality
Cons:
-Sound customisation limited to PC users
Creative SXFI Gamer
The multi-award winning Creative SXFI Gamer is a premium gaming headset. According to the company it offers the best microphone on a gaming headset and also the best surround sound for esports gaming. It comes with a USB Type-C connection and a braided cable alongside a standard 3.5mm audio jack. The former connectivity option enables RGB illumination around the ear cups which looks nice and settles in with the whole gamer vibe. The build quality is good and offers good padding for a comfortable fit. The microphone actually sounds pretty good with noise suppression and includes a side-tone option so you can slightly hear your own voice from the mic. As for the sound quality, it delivers balanced audio with a good amount of power. It also comes with a special Battle Mode meant to enhance the audio experience while playing FPS games. The SXFI Gamer headset from Creative is currently only available on Amazon with a selling price of Rs 13,387.
Creative SXFI Gamer review
Creative SXFI Gamer offers great surround sound as well as features amazing overall sound quality for gaming. The headset also has a fantastic design with RGB earcups along with good build quality.
Pros:
-Quality surround sound experience
-RGB lighting
-USB-C and 3.5mm connectivity
-Respectable microphone qualityCons:
-No wireless option
-Companion app can get cumbersome
Buy: Amazon
Razer Kraken V3 HyperSense
Razer’s most premium and innovative offering under its popular Kraken series, this headset is meant for the ultimate gaming experience. The Kraken V3 HyperSense comes with a built-in haptic system technology enabling a multi-sensory gaming experience where one can feel what they hear. According to the company, the special haptic drivers in each ear cup can pick up audio cues and convert them into realistic vibrations that vary in position, duration, and intensity. The headset comes with Razer’s own Triforce 50mm audio drivers along with 7.1 THX spatial surround sound. In terms of build and comfort the headset offers a steel enforced headband, memory foam cushioning, and leatherette material all around. You also get RGB lighting that can be controlled using Razer’s Chroma lighting software. The Razer Kraken V3 HyperSense is an expensive affair and is currently selling on Amazon for Rs 18,459 and Rs 19,999 on Flipkart.
Razer Kraken V3 HyperSense review
The Razer Kraken V3 HyperSense is premium headset designed for elite players. It comes with the innovative built-in haptic tech that converts sound cues in to vibrations. The Kraken V3 HyperSense headset also offers other premium features such as 7.1 THX spatial audio, RGB lighting, 50mm audio drivers, and more.
Pros:
-Unique haptic feedback system
-Variety software customisations
-Well built
Cons:
-Spatial audio limited to some games
-No wireless option
