Sound quality: It seems like it should go without saying, but we’ll say it anyway: You can’t always tell on a sheet of paper what a gaming headset will sound like. A well-made stereo headset can sound better than a well-made 7.1 Dolby Atmos surround sound set. Check out the reviews to get a feel for how the headset works in real life.
Surround sound options: Modern headsets have become very good at recreating or simulating surround sound in headsets with systems such as Dolby Atmos for Headphones or DTS:X. These systems are especially effective in games where you want to be able to hear exactly where the enemy who is shooting you is standing. Make sure you can turn surround sound on or off.
Comfort: This is another separate category, but if you’re going to wear the headset for hours while playing, it’s important that it doesn’t damage it. A heavy headset that presses on your temples can give you a headache after a while. Look for headsets that have adjustable, ergonomic designs, plenty of cushioning, and are generally lightweight.
Adjustable boom microphone: If you plan to use your headset for online gaming, a good microphone is essential. Most headsets come with boom mics that can be placed in front of your mouth. Some are removable, while others can be flipped or folded away from your mouth when not in use. Make sure you find the right brand for your needs.
Visual microphone mute and indicator LEDs: It’s important to know when you’re broadcasting audio so you don’t accidentally share your private conversations with your teammates. Some microphones automatically mute when you flip them up, while others use a dedicated mute button. We especially like the earphones that feature red LEDs that indicate when you’re on mute.
Monitoring the microphone to hear your voice: If you want to keep tabs on how you sound to your colleagues, and not sound like you’re shouting while playing, microphone monitoring is a feature that lets you hear your own sound through your headphones. Ideally, you can adjust its volume. If you’re listening to a podcast or radio talk show, chances are those people are using some form of microphone monitoring to hear themselves, as well as others.
Equalizer (EQ) and customization tools: Games, movies, and TV shows are mixed differently, and when listening, you may want to emphasize different aspects of the audio signal. Custom EQ presets allow you to set different balances for watching a movie versus playing a game, or have different balances on a per-game basis.
Source link
