In the video game business, the right equipment is essential. It’s a fantastic method for enhancing your gaming experience. When it comes to gaming equipment, high-quality headphones are sometimes disregarded. If the headphones are of sufficient quality, the player may feel as if they are part of the action. It’s practical and cozy, perfect for extended gaming sessions.
To immerse yourself in your favorite games, we’ve listed the five best gaming headphones for $200. Gaming headphones are here. I’ll evaluate the 5 best gaming headphones under 200 USD today. We consider aesthetics, audio quality, and more before choosing an experience.
We consider ergonomics and gamer-specific features. We commonly mention high-end headphones. Finding good gaming headphones is difficult. This addresses cost-effectiveness. Thoughtful searching may provide great options. Thus, we found affordable sound choices. We chose the best gaming headphones under $200 in 2023.
What Makes A Gaming Headphones?
Although “best” is a relative phrase, it is still important to outline what features are essential in a good gaming headset.
- Wireless: The ability to play without being tethered to a computer or other source of interference is a major plus for headsets.
- Comfort: For extended periods of time spent gaming, comfort is the most crucial factor to consider while purchasing headphones. Despite its subjectivity, comfort may be affected by factors such as weight, contact pressure, earpad shape/material, stiffness, and overall size.
- Number of audio channels: Multi-channel audio is standard in many modern video games. Headsets may only have two ear cups, but they may be engineered to simulate surround sound.
- System compatibility: Although you may only have one gaming system, it is still crucial that a high-quality gaming headset is compatible with as many platforms as possible.
- Frequency response: In terms of frequency response, high-quality headphones should faithfully reproduce sounds from 20 hertz to 20 thousand hertz.
- Microphone quality: The microphone quality of a headset is crucial. The electret microphones included in premium gaming headsets are known for their crisp audio pickup.
Our Top Picks
5 Best Gaming Headphones Under $200 in 2023
1. Shokz (AfterShokz)OpenComm UC Bone Conduction
The Shokz (AfterShokz) OpenComm UC Bone Conduction Bluetooth Stereo Computer Headset with Loop100 USB-A Adapter brings a refreshing innovation in the world of communication tools. Suited for home office use, this wireless PC headset impresses with its remarkable features.
Pros:
- The bone conduction technology provides a unique and comfortable listening experience. It allows the user to hear audio without blocking the ears, ensuring environmental awareness.
- The noise-canceling boom microphone significantly improves voice clarity, a must-have for professional meetings or calls.
- The Loop100 USB-A Adapter provides seamless connectivity, fostering a reliable, wireless connection to your PC.
Cons:
- Some may find the bone conduction audio experience unfamiliar, which can initially lead to discomfort.
- As it depends on Bluetooth technology, you might encounter occasional connectivity issues.
In conclusion, the Shokz (AfterShokz) OpenComm UC is a robust and innovative headset that delivers excellent sound and microphone quality. It might take some getting used to, but its unique technology and convenient design make it a compelling choice for home office users.
Customer Opinions: Love that this can be paired with my computer for meetings, then switched to my cellphone for calls or just listening to music. The sound is crisp and clear, and it has a long battery life that lasts all day. See More
2. Oleap Pilot Open-Ear Headset
Experience unprecedented communication clarity with the Oleap Pilot Open-Ear Headset. It seamlessly combines high-grade sound technology and comfort, delivering top-notch audio performance perfect for truckers, office workers, and call center representatives. Its standout features include:
- 【Call Quality Defender】Ultimate Clear Call with 50dB ENC. The ENC algorithm eliminates environmental noises up to 50dB, and that means your team hears your voice without background noise. Safeguard your clear calls for more efficient communications with the AI-powered deep learning technology. No worries and shouting… In a noisy office or at home with annoying sounds - Just say it with open ear headphones.
- 【Air Conduction Open Ear Headset】The oleap headset doesn't need to clamp the head compared to Bone conduction headphones, avoiding damage to the head caused by vibration caused by wearing Bone conduction for a long time. It keeps your ear canal clean and protects your hearing from eardrum damage caused by wearing traditional headphones for a long time, which ensures your ears stay open and fully alert while listening to whatever you want for maximum situational awareness, safety and connection.
- 【Great Leap Of Sounding】The compact design holds a 16mm dynamic driver on each side to bring greater sound power-up to 105dB which ensures you hear the sound easily in noisy places. Open-ear design VS high-definition audio, these are not necessarily opposite to each other. BassLeap tech reinforces bass tone dynamically according to the sound power, bringing better bass performance than bone conduction headphones. Experience the difference of open ear headphones.
Pros:
- 50dB Noise Canceling Boom Microphone – The headset provides crystal clear audio by minimizing ambient noise, making it ideal for noisy environments.
- Lightweight Bluetooth Wireless Design – Its light construction and wireless feature provide user comfort during prolonged use.
- Seamless Switching Between Mobile & PC – Flexibility in connectivity options, allowing easy transition between different devices.
- Mute Function – A convenient feature that enhances privacy during calls.
Cons:
- Requires Dongle for Connectivity – The need for a dongle might limit its usage in devices without USB ports.
- Open-Ear Design – While it promotes better awareness of surroundings, it might not suit users who prefer complete sound isolation.
In conclusion, the Oleap Pilot Open-Ear Headset is a high-performing communication tool with brilliant sound technology, offering versatility to suit various professional needs.
Customer Opinions: I purchased this as a gift for my husband. He wears a headset much of the day. This does NOT ACTUALLY GO INTO THE EAR. So, no end of day OUCH. It is very lightweight. It is noise canceling. There are too many positive attributes to mention here. It was less expensive than the high-end Plantronics. It needs to be experienced. I bought it because it does NOT rest inside the ear. See More
3. SHOKZ OpenRun Pro
Unleash the full potential of your workouts with the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro – an open-ear, bone-conduction Bluetooth sports headphones. These headphones deliver a premium deep bass sound experience, ensuring your tunes carry you through every stride.
- Open-Ear Comfort - OpenRun Pro features our best fit yet. Avoid the discomfort of in-ear headphones with our bud-free design. These headphones stay put during any workout. Includes Shokz headband
- Safety & Connection - OpenRun Pro ensures you enjoy your favorite audio with awareness of your environment for improved connection and safety compared to traditional earbuds or over-ear headphones
- Premium Sound Quality - Experience premium audio delivered through your cheekbone with our 9th bone conduction technology. Engineered with Shokz TurboPitch technology, OpenRun Pro headset features our best listening experience with clear sound, powerful volume, and a rich bass
Pros:
- The bone conduction technology ensures outstanding audio without blocking your awareness of your surroundings, perfect for outdoor workouts.
- The sweat-resistant design ensures they stand up to even the toughest workouts.
- Integrated Bluetooth technology allows for seamless pairing with devices, and the built-in mic lets you take calls on the go.
- Comes with a comfortable hair band which is a nice touch for keeping sweat or hair out of your eyes during intense sessions.
Cons:
- Some may find the open-ear design lacking in sound isolation in noisy environments.
- The premium sound quality might not be up to par for more discerning audiophiles.
In conclusion, the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro headphones are an ideal option for active individuals seeking a blend of comfort, safety, and sound quality in their workout gear. With added features like the hair band and built-in mic, they provide a premium experience for fitness enthusiasts.
Customer Opinions: So lightweight, I could barely tell they were on. I could hear my music (via Bluetooth and my iPhone, although I had to turn the volume down) AND I could hear ambient noise: my dog stepping on a brown leaf, a neighbor saying my name, the whir of bike tires on the pavement, cars approaching from 75 feet away.
And the printed directions–words and drawings–were clear and easy to follow. I opened the box, and 10 minutes later I was walking in the park with my dog, listening to one of my playlists on Spotify. Didn’t get any phone calls on the headphones, but don’t anticipate any difficulties, based on how easy and as-advertised it’s been so far. See More
4. SHOKZ (AfterShokz OpenComm
The AfterShokz OpenComm Bone Conduction Open-Ear Stereo Bluetooth Headset from SHOKZ is a true game-changer in the mobile accessory market. The headset offers unparalleled comfort with its unique open-ear design, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings.
This wireless device impresses with its innovative bone conduction technology, which provides clear audio without covering your ears. Also noteworthy is the noise-canceling boom microphone, which ensures your voice is heard clearly, even in noisy environments.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality thanks to bone conduction technology.
- Open-ear design enhances situational awareness.
- Noise-canceling microphone for clear conversations.
- Wireless convenience with strong Bluetooth connectivity.
Cons:
- The headset might feel unusual to first-time users of bone conduction technology.
- Some users may find the price point a little high compared to traditional Bluetooth headsets.
In conclusion, the AfterShokz OpenComm headset offers a unique listening experience that skillfully marries safety, convenience, and sound quality. While the price and the novelty of the bone conduction may be a deterrent to some, the headset’s innovative features make it worth considering for those seeking a unique, high-quality mobile accessory.
Customer Opinions: This is my second pair, and I love them. I wear glasses and the band-type headsets push down on my legs and wind up making my ears sore and giving me a migraine. This fits comfortably over my ears and my glasses legs. The sound is super clear and crispy, with no background noise complaints. I work from home so that’s a big thing. The only problem I have is I don’t get the advertised 16 hours of talk time. I may get 12. A day and a half of work before it says charge me. Not sure if I’m going to send it back or just deal with it. But, either way, I do love my shocks. See More
5. Oleap Pilot Open-Ear Headset
The Oleap Pilot Open-Ear Headset offers high-quality sound, ideal for anyone requiring seamless communication. This headset offers a 50dB Noise Canceling Boom Microphone, ensuring clarity even in the noisiest environments. Additionally, its lightweight design allows for comfortable extended wear, and its Bluetooth wireless technology makes connectivity a breeze. The mute function is particularly handy for truckers, office workers, and call centers. Furthermore, the ability to switch seamlessly between mobile and PC is a distinct advantage, bringing versatility and ease of use.
- 【Call Quality Defender】Ultimate Clear Call with 50dB ENC. The ENC algorithm eliminates environmental noises up to 50dB, and that means your team hears your voice without background noise. Safeguard your clear calls for more efficient communications with the AI-powered deep learning technology. No worries and shouting… In a noisy office or at home with annoying sounds - Just say it with open ear headphones.
- 【Air Conduction Open Ear Headset】The oleap headset doesn't need to clamp the head compared to Bone conduction headphones, avoiding damage to the head caused by vibration caused by wearing Bone conduction for a long time. It keeps your ear canal clean and protects your hearing from eardrum damage caused by wearing traditional headphones for a long time, which ensures your ears stay open and fully alert while listening to whatever you want for maximum situational awareness, safety and connection.
- 【Great Leap Of Sounding】The compact design holds a 16mm dynamic driver on each side to bring greater sound power-up to 105dB which ensures you hear the sound easily in noisy places. Open-ear design VS high-definition audio, these are not necessarily opposite to each other. BassLeap tech reinforces bass tone dynamically according to the sound power, bringing better bass performance than bone conduction headphones. Experience the difference of open ear headphones.
Pros:
- High-quality Sound: Offers crystal clear communication.
- Noise Canceling Boom Microphone: Reduces background noise for superior audio clarity.
- Lightweight Design: Comfortable for prolonged use.
- Bluetooth Wireless Technology: Provides convenient connectivity.
- Mute Function: Great for controlling audio during calls.
- Seamless Switching Between Mobile and PC: Enhances versatility.
Cons:
- Battery Life: Could be improved for extended use.
- Fit: May not be comfortable for all head shapes/sizes.
In conclusion, the Oleap Pilot Open-Ear Headset is an excellent choice for professionals seeking a reliable, high-quality communication device. Its pros clearly outweigh the few cons, making it a must-have for seamless, effective communication.
Customer Opinions: I purchased this as a gift for my husband. He wears a headset much of the day. This does NOT ACTUALLY GO INTO THE EAR. So, no end of day OUCH. It is very lightweight. It is noise canceling. There are too many positive attributes to mention here. It was less expensive than the high-end Plantronics. It needs to be experienced. I bought it because it does NOT rest inside the ear. See More
How To Connect a Gaming Headset to Your Computer
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Best Gaming Headphones Under $200 Buying Guide
Before diving in, make sure you understand the background of the recommendations. This implies that there are factors worth considering while shopping for gaming headphones. That’s why we give attention to them. With this information in hand, we can choose the best option. Therefore, you may choose the headphones that meet your specific needs as a gamer.
The following are a few of the most crucial factors to think about:
- Sound Quality: The sound quality of gaming headphones greatly impacts your gaming experience. Look for headphones that offer clear, crisp audio with a wide frequency response range. The ability to distinguish subtle details, such as footsteps or gunshots, can give you a competitive advantage. Additionally, consider headphones with virtual surround sound technology for an immersive gaming environment.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: Comfort is paramount during long gaming sessions. Look for headphones with adjustable headbands, plush ear cushions, and lightweight designs. Over-ear headphones often provide better comfort and noise isolation compared to on-ear or in-ear options. Ensure the headphones fit snugly without exerting excessive pressure on your head or ears.
- Microphone Quality: If you engage in multiplayer gaming or streaming, a high-quality microphone is essential for clear communication. Look for gaming headphones with a noise-canceling microphone that filters out background noise and delivers crystal-clear voice transmission. Adjustable microphone booms allow for easy positioning to capture your voice accurately.
- Durability and Build Quality: Gaming headphones should be built to withstand rigorous use. Look for sturdy construction with durable materials that can endure the demands of intense gaming sessions. Reinforced cables, detachable cords, and foldable designs can enhance portability and prevent damage during storage or transportation.
- Wired or Wireless: Consider whether you prefer wired or wireless gaming headphones. Wired options generally offer lower latency and uninterrupted connectivity. However, wireless headphones provide freedom of movement and eliminate cable clutter. Ensure that wireless headphones have a reliable connection range and a long battery life to avoid interruptions during extended gaming sessions.
- Compatibility: Check the compatibility of the gaming headphones with your gaming platform or device. Most headphones are compatible with PCs, consoles (PlayStation, Xbox), and mobile devices, but it’s always best to confirm to avoid any compatibility issues.
- Reviews and Feedback: Before making a purchase, read reviews and gather feedback from other gamers. Websites, forums, and online retailers often provide customer reviews that can give you insights into the performance, durability, and overall satisfaction of the headphones you’re considering. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to make an informed decision.
- Warranty and Customer Support: Consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period provides peace of mind and indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Additionally, ensure that the company offers reliable customer support, as it can be crucial if you encounter any issues or have questions about your headphones.
Best Gaming Headphones Under 200 USD FAQs
Why headphones are better?
Headphones offer better noise cancellation, fuller coverage, and a more comfortable listening experience. Earbuds are cheaper and more convenient, slipping into your pocket or bag with ease, and they aren’t as conspicuous to wear. You can choose between wired or wireless earbuds or headphones in different price ranges.
What type of headset is best for gaming?
The top wired and wireless gaming headsets to buy in May 2023. When it comes to maximizing audio, our choice for the best gaming headset is the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless.
Why gaming headphones are important?
Not only will gaming headsets help them compete better in multiplayer game modes, but they will also help them enjoy single-player experiences better by drawing out additional sounds they may not hear with a traditional headset, better amp up the action and immersion they feel.
Are headphones better for gaming?
Gamers may prefer headphones for their superior audio quality, which can enhance the gaming experience. However, some gamers prioritize features like surround sound and microphone quality, making gaming headsets the preferred choice.
Conclusion:
There are several excellent headphones for less than $100, but not all of them are up to the task in highly competitive settings. If one were to double their budget, they may discover a far wider variety of high-quality, feature-rich headsets to choose from. These supplementary features are much more important than RGB alone, and they provide a premium feel that is absent from lower affordable devices. Still, a few low-priced headsets hold their own despite the price hikes, so it’s not as easy as one would think to locate the best gaming headphones for around 200.
Choosing the best gaming headphones under 200 requires careful consideration of factors such as sound quality, comfort, microphone quality, durability, wired or wireless connectivity, compatibility, reviews, and warranty. By assessing these aspects, you can make an informed decision and find gaming headphones that deliver an immersive gaming experience without breaking the bank. Happy gaming!
See more:
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- How to clean headphones and ear pads
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