Let’s Be Real here: Choosing the Best Non-Gaming Headsets for Gaming

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Best Non Gaming Headsets For Gaming Final
Best Non Gaming Headsets For Gaming Final

Choosing the perfect headset for gaming is so annoying. There are a gajiillion of gaming headsets that have popped up, all claiming that they offer more features than their competitors. Thus, a lot of gamers actually prefer to get the best non-gaming headsets for gaming purposes.

But seriously, what makes a “great” headset for gaming? In the barest of senses, the lines between the best non-gaming headset and the best gaming headset is blurred. Features found in gaming headsets can also be found on some high-quality non-gaming headsets. These features are:

  • Noise Cancelling – gamers can be really picky with what they want to hear. A lot of work have been put into games in terms of sound quality and music score. Hence, gamers want to experience all of these rich sounds without background noise ruining the experience. Noise cancelling features help block unwanted ambient sounds.
  • Sound boosts – a lot of games these days also have great sound and music quality. Sound effects from the rumbling sound of falling rocks to the deep bass lines of atmospheric music make the overall gaming experience way better. That is why companies have been including sound boosting technology on all their headsets, as this delivers the maximum immersion from playing a game.
  • Microphone – there are also a lot of multiplayer games that require gamers to be in constant contact with their teammates. Sure, there is a type-to-chat function for games, but the best reaction times for teams come from communicating in a real time manner. And this is done by using voice chat functions. A good microphone helps you communicate better with your teammates, thus winning more matches easily.
  • Comfortability – playing games take a whole lot of time. And wearing a headset for a long time tends to be painful to a gamer’s ears and head. Well, to anyone’s ears and head, really. So most gaming headsets tend to have very comfortable builds that allow gamers to use these headsets for long periods of time.

With that out of the way, here’s a list of some of the best non-gaming headsets for gaming. Do note that we will include if the headsets are checked on the categories listed above. Ready? Let’s do this!

Vogek On-Ear Headphones

Vogek On Ear Headphones

Pros
  • 40 mm driver units ensure maximum listening pleasure
  • Strong bass and balanced sound levels
  • Inexpensive
Cons
  • No case
  • Might not fit snuggly for some people

Noise Cancelling: Somewhat

Sound Boosts: Somewhat

Microphone: Present

Comfortability: Medium

Vogek has recently become a forerunner on the audiophile gear scene. The company gained some major street creds when it comes to producing high-quality products for home usage. That is why one of their best products, the Vogek On-Ear Headphones are included on this list.

We would first like to touch on the fact that these headphones are very portable. Despite the lack of a pouch or a case, it has a fold-in flat design that helps in storage. This is perfect for mobile games or for people who own a Nintendo Switch. The cables are made to be tangle-free as well.

Quality-wise, Vogek has done a great job on these headphones. This item operates on a 40 mm driver that produces excellent balanced sound levels. Now you won’t have to worry about not hearing important dialogues or sound cues on your games. The overall design of the headphones also contribute to entrapping sound on your ears and keeping unwanted noise out.

With excellent design and functionality, the Vogek On-Ear Headphones are worth checking out. It comes with 9 different colors to choose from too.

Logitech USB Headset H390 with Noise Cancelling Mic

Logitech Usb Headset H390

Pros
  • Great microphone frequency response
  • Rotating noise-cancelling microphone
  • Compatible with a lot of OS
Cons
  • USB connector, PC only

Noise Cancelling: Yes

Sound Boosts: None

Microphone: Yes

Comfortability: Medium

For the classy, work-at-home gamer who holds work and games in a delicate balance, this one’s for you.

Ever get tired of owning separate headsets for different instances? Like, plugging in one for work, and switching for another one when you play games? What if you just want to play in-between work breaks, or just continue on after you log off? Well, Logitech has the solution for that.

The Logitech USB Headset H390 with Noise Cancelling Mic is a god-send for work-at-home people (like me.) It eliminates my need to switch between my work headset and a console gaming headset without losing the quality I’m after.

I mainly play competitive games on the PC, like Overwatch, League of Legends, APEX Legends, and more. These are games where you need to have good communication with your teammates, unless you want to make yourself go insane. This is where the H390’s noise-cancelling microphone comes into play. The microphone has great frequency response from 100 Hz to 10 kHz, allowing you to communicate with your team almost instantaneously.

Sound quality isn’t bad, but it is not as exceptional like other top of the line headsets in this list. The H390 uses laser-tuned drivers that deliver digital audio and sounds. This setup is perfect for those who prefer clear sounds without too much extra things on top.

The Logitech USB Headset H390 with Noise Cancelling Mic marries work usage and gaming functionality in one. It’s the perfect grab for those who don’t want to spend too much on separate headsets.

Sennheiser HD 599 Open Back Headphones

Sennheiser Hd 599

Pros
  • Ear pads and headband offer extreme comfort
  • Design and build helps produce great sound quality
  • Versatile connectivity
Cons
  • Might be too snug for some people
  • The beige plastic feels a bit cheap
  • No Mic

Noise Cancelling: Somewhat

Sound Boosts: Yes

Microphone: None

Comfortability: High

One strong contender on the audio gear scene is Sennheiser. They are a company that has continuously proven that their products will always be top-of-the-line. One such product line they have that have embodied this trend is their HD 500 series, in which the Sennheiser HD 599 Open Back Headphones is part of.

The HD 599 is an upgrade from the HD 598 that a lot of gaming enthusiasts like. The 598 introduced a lot of features that gamers like, except for the lack of microphone. While the 599 still does not have a microphone, it’s by far one of the best headphones for game sounds and music output quality.

The components used for this pair of headphones are made of premium materials. This includes aluminum coils that offer dynamic sound quality as well as reduces sound distortion. The headphones themselves feature an open acoustic design which also contributes to the sound output. The open-back setup delivers a different kind of spatial presentation that enhances the experience for listeners.

Meanwhile, the HD 599’s ease of use and comfort levels are nothing to scoff at either. These headphones provide extremely flexible connectivity with different cables and connectors included in the package. There is a three meter cable with a 6.33 mm jack for home entertainment use. But what we are truly looking at is the 1.2 meter cable with a 3.55 mm jack that can be used for multiple console and gaming device usage. Comfort wise, the velour ear cushions are heaven-sent for the ears when gaming for long periods of time.

If you want to spend a little bit more for solo-gaming headphones, then the Sennheiser HD 599 Open Back Headphones is a good pick up. There’s a black version, if you want that more than the ivory one, but it costs a bit more for some reason.

Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones

Audio Technica Ath Ad500x

Pros
  • Excellent Mid and High sounds due to 53 mm drivers
  • Lightweight build
Cons
  • Might be big for people with smaller to normal-sized heads
  • No Mic

Noise Cancelling: Somewhat

Sound Boosts: Yes

Microphone: None

Comfortability: Medium

Audio-Technica is another big brand that has a large fan base in the audio gear market. They continued to release earphones, headphones, and microphones, and other audio equipment that people used (and abused) to their own ends. One of the fan favorites, especially by gamers, is the Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones.

There are no words to describe how great the ATH-AD500X performs, so let us just break down every component and you judge it for yourself.

First up, the drivers. The ATH-AD500X carries 53 mm drivers with CCAW voice coils. From these alone, you can hear undeniable, outstanding game sounds. If you are playing games with heavy vocal dialogue, then these are the perfect headphones to get. The voice comes out phenomenally well even in the most hectic in-game situations. The treble, mids, and highs can be heard clearly. The rich deep bass that these headphones project adds up to the whole atmosphere of the game.

Upon usage, the ATH-AD500X also delivers a comfortable experience. Because of the overall lightweight build of these headphones, you sometimes won’t feel that you are wearing it. The open-air design also contributes to that effect as well. The flexible and durable ear pads give your ears a snuggly feel and eases discomfort from long hours of playing.

If you look at the headphones up front, you’d notice that there are antennae-looking things on top. Audio-Technica calls them the ‘3D Wing Support’ that fits perfectly on top of your head. The only drawback is that these comfortable projections might not fit smaller heads.

Philips SHP9500 Hi-Fi Precision Stereo Over-Ear Headphones

Philips Shp9500

Pros
  • Balanced sound levels
  • Very durable build
  • Tailored driver angles for maximum hearing experience
Cons
  • Clamping force of the headphones are quite strong
  • No Mic

Noise Cancelling: Somewhat

Sound Boosts: Yes

Microphone: None

Comfortability: High

And another well-known brand for audiophiles have entered the best non-gaming headset for gaming list. Philipps has continued to supply the masses with high-quality audio gear for many years. And with new technological advances, you can be sure that the company isn’t going to fall behind their competitors. This brought about the the creation of the Philips SHP9500 Hi-Fi Precision Stereo Over-Ear Headphones.

Gamers looking for an all-around headset that they can take anywhere would love the SHP9500. It is not as bulky as most gaming headsets out there, yet it can still bring out even better sound output. The 50 mm drivers give out a full spectrum of music and sounds from your game. The open-back over-the-ear design offers an authentic listening feel. These drivers are precisely angled to direct sound on your ears.

Comfort does not let up in these headphones. The SHP9500 uses ear cushions that are breathable in nature. These adds an extra layer of comfort to your ears during an overnight gaming session. These breathable cushions are also found on the headband, albeit double-layered for an even more comfortable wear. Yet despite all these soft things that pad your head, the headband is made of durable steel. This sets it apart from a lot of plastic-made headphones. No matter how durable the plastic material is, plastic is plastic, and steel is better for sturdy builds.

Also, for its quality, the Philips SHP9500 Hi-Fi Precision Stereo Over-Ear Headphones is way lower on the price scale than most headphones in the market. So if you value quality and you want to retain some fattiness on your wallet, then check these headphones out.

Sony MDRZX110AP ZX Series Extra Bass Smartphone Headset with Mic

Sony Mdrzx110ap Zx

Pros
  • Extra bass offers excellent atmospheric immersion
  • Wide frequency response
Cons
  • Build is a little flimsy

Noise Cancelling: Somewhat

Sound Boosts: Yes

Microphone: Yes

Comfortability: Medium

Probably one of the best non-gaming headphones for gaming, the Sony MDRZX110AP ZX Series Extra Bass Smartphone Headset with Mic. It is chock full of features that might seem ‘normal’ for headsets nowadays. But the quality in these headphones is real, even though the product model (MDRZX110AP ZX) is written by someone who facerolled on a keyboard.

Don’t let the name fool you, these are not only for smartphones. But if mobile gaming is your thing, then these do double the wonder. You see, if you are using a mobile phones or tablets as your gaming device, then the MDRZX110AP ZX has features you’d really like to have in a headphone. First, the in-line microphone allows you to take calls (or talk to teammates on Discord mobile,) hands-free. Next, if you want to just chill and hear music, there’s a free SmartKey App included when you purchase these headphones. This app allows you to customize in-line remote functions according to your liking. All these features are available for both Apple and Android users.

Game sound quality is amazing on the MDRZX110AP ZX due to the built-in Extra Bass function. This is a Sony headset feature where it adds the most straightforwardly-named thing ever: extra bass. This thing is a god-send for those who are looking for extra atmosphere when playing triple A titles where the music score is usually really good. Adding to the quality of sound output is the 30 mm drivers that delivers a balanced listening experience. These drivers offer a wide frequency response of 12 to 22,000 Hz.

With an outstanding tangle-free cable and swivel design, the Sony MDRZX110AP ZX Series Extra Bass Smartphone Headset with Mic is great pickup for gamers.

PeohZarr On-Ear Headphones with Microphone

Peohzarr On Ear Headphones

Pros
  • Very competitive price for its quality
  • Good customer service
  • Aesthetic design looks fantastic
Cons
  • Volume levels sometimes randomly drops after months of use

Noise Cancelling: None

Sound Boosts: Yes

Microphone: Yes

Comfortability: Medium

When you read the full product name of the PeohZarr On-Ear Headphones with Microphone on sites like Amazon, it seems they really want the buyer to know everything included in the package:

“PeohZarr On-Ear Headphones with Microphone, Lightweight Folding Stereo Bass Headphones with 1.5M Tangle Free Cord, Portable Wired Headphones for Smartphone Tablet Laptop Computer MP3/4”

The name might trigger an overselling trauma you had. But don’t worry, these headphones are legit. They are so legit that you’d wonder why the heck they are priced so low!

The PeohZarr On-Ear Headphones with Microphone has a really good build that justifies its long-ass name. It’s all true. The 40 mm drivers gives off a balanced sound output and includes a rich, deep bass and crisp-sound mids. The headphones sport ultra-soft cushions that add extra comfort for long hours of game time. The adjustable slider also helps in finding your perfect fit no matter where you are gaming.

What really catches our eye is the aesthetic design of these headsets. They look really amazing, with five colors to choose from. So far, these are the most “gaming headset-looking” headphones on the list. Clearly made for the modern gamers, PeohZarr made sure that you can be proud wearing these no matter where you go. It’s even foldable and durable at the same time.

So if you are looking for aesthetics, functionality, and a very cheap price, then you should definitely checkout the PeohZarr On-Ear Headphones with Microphone. And no, we are not typing that long-ass name ever again.

Cyber Acoustics Headphones and Noise Cancelling Microphone

Cyber Acoustics Headphones With Mic

Pros
  • High comfort levels, built for long periods of use
  • Simple yet elegant design
  • One size fits all
Cons
  • Volume loss after months of usage were experienced by a lot of people

Noise Cancelling: Yes

Sound Boosts: None

Microphone: Yes

Comfortability: High

Another one of those headsets that combine work and play. The Cyber Acoustics Headphones and Noise Cancelling Microphone focuses more on the comfort side of things. And that sweet microphone.

Cyber Acoustics, a lesser known brand that has contributed on the headphone scene a bit, has developed these headphones for work. The microphone they use is a unidirectional noise-cancelling microphone. This means that the mic only picks up sounds from a certain point (the one that actually faces your mouth.) Little did they know that this is also essential for gamers who want to be in constant communication with their team. Having a mic that will only pick-up sound from a certain point proves invaluable for those doing scrims in very noisy places: net cafes, a very busy house, or your mom/dad/brother/sister screaming downstairs. This is also great for those who want to start on streaming games or recording gameplay videos. Although, we do recommend that you get the best microphone for vocals if you really want an edge in recording or streaming.

Anyway, these headphones are also built for extreme comfort. Since they are made for work, people are expected to wear these up to 8 hours per day. Yet a lot of users haven’t reported any discomfort when using this specific headset. Translating into gaming usage, 8 hours is easy for these headphones, and won’t burn your ear. It’s also one-size-fits-all, and has an ambidextrous microphone boom arm. So whether you prefer your mic on the left or right side of your face, it won’t matter.

Conclusion

The best non-gaming headset for gaming is subjective. Same rules apply if you are looking for the best gaming earbuds. It all boils down to the preference of the user, really. But personally, as I write this article, I refer non-gaming headsets to gaming ones. Why? Because the functionality to use them anywhere apart from gaming is better for me.

4/5 - (1 vote)
John is a massive video game enthusiast that mostly plays on the PC and the PS4. He currently likes to play MOBAs, FPS, and hunting games like Monster Hunter. He is a resident blogger for this site and focuses more on video games and audio equipment. He plays the drums and rolls around the bed a lot when he's bored.

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