It can be difficult to choose the right budget gaming headsets. This is especially true if you don’t know what other considerations you should consider. In this article, Rezence will go through everything there is to know about this topic.
Wired Headsets
SteelSeries released the Siberia, the world’s first gaming headset in 2004.
Wired headsets remain the norm for gamers as they enable players to hear and communicate with each other.
Because of their simplicity, many gamers prefer wired headsets. Because they have 3.5-millimeter wired connections and USB connections, wired headsets can be used on any computer.
These headsets are usually cheaper than their wired counterparts. While wired headsets are generally more affordable because they use older technology, the sound quality is equal to or better than wireless ones.
Pros
- Superior sound quality
- Easy to fix and less expensive
- Unlimited playtime
- It is simple to use
Cons
- Can be used to restrict movement
- Sometimes wires can be very fragile
- Compatibility
Wireless Headsets
Before the advent of wireless technology at 2.4GHz, wired headsets were still the best for gaming. Wireless headsets before 2.4GHz were not reliable and could be affected by signal loss and delays.
The performance of headsets is dramatically different today, as pros such as the Astralis CS-GO team and TSM VALORANT use wireless gaming headsets.
Bluetooth headsets can connect to other devices via a wireless radio frequency signal (RFS) or Bluetooth.
While Bluetooth headsets can be cheaper than wireless signals, they are less reliable, have lower sound quality, and cause more delay. Bluetooth headsets can be used as a backup connection and are compatible with all Bluetooth devices.
Pros
- Freedom of movement
- Compatible with other devices
- More portable
- No more wires
- Excellent sound quality
Cons
- Charges may be required
- More expensive
- It is difficult, if not impossible to repair.
- Problems of pairing and connectivity
Differences Between Wireless Vs Wired Gaming Headset
Sound Quality
Wireless headsets are not as popular as wired ones due to their superior sound quality. The wired headsets transmit the audio signals from the device directly through the cable, with little chance of signal interference or data loss.
Most wireless headsets transmit audio data wirelessly by encoding it. The headset’s quality can cause a loss in sound quality or higher latency.
Wireless headsets have been known for having better sound quality than wired ones. Wireless headsets have narrowed the gap, such as the Logitech G Pro X Wireless and SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless.
Although audiophiles and casual users still prefer wired headsets, they may not be as noticeable to everyday users.
The current wireless headsets, such as the Razer BlackShark Pro Wireless and SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless, have a sound quality that rivals their wired counterparts and no noticeable latency.
For a few reasons, modern gaming headphones use Bluetooth instead of 2.4GHz. Because it is stable and has higher data transfer speeds, the 2.4GHz wireless frequency offers better sound quality than Bluetooth headsets.
Bluetooth headsets can be used to listen to music and watch movies. However, in competitive games where accuracy and speed are crucial, Bluetooth is too slow and has low audio quality.
Compatibility
Wired headsets can be used with many devices, except for some mobile phones. The universal audio connection type for devices such as PCs, tablets, consoles, and monitors is the 3.5-millimeter Jack.
However, you can still use mobile phones with a 3.5-millimeter headphone jack with wired headsets.
The headsets are connected using an adapter instead of directly connecting to the phone. These adapters can be purchased separately, which can add some dollars to the overall headset cost.
Higher-end gaming wireless headsets connect to the computer via a USB soundcard instead of a traditional 3.5-millimeter cable.
USB sound cards transmit audio data digitally, as opposed to analog signals offered by the 3,5-millimeter Jack. The USB sound card sits outside of the computer and helps eliminate active background noise. They also offer more excellent adjustability options.
The software that controls the equalizer settings on USB headsets can also simulate 5.1 surround sound or 7.1.
Wireless headsets cannot be used on all hardware. However, wired gaming headsets work well with most hardware. A USB port reduces compatibility and renders wireless headsets unusable for mobile phones.
Battery Life
Most wired headsets don’t require a power source. You can use your headphones anywhere you want. However, this does not mean that they do not need batteries.
The downside is the loss of audio quality. Some wired headsets use batteries that allow you to cancel out the sound while you listen to music. These headphones typically require two to four AAA or AAA batteries. You can also find wired headsets that have rechargeable batteries.
Wireless headset requires power, so you will need a battery to use them. It can be powered by AA or AAA batteries or come with a rechargeable battery.
Rechargeable wireless gaming headsets require a micro USB cable or mini USB cable. They take approximately 3 hours to charge.
There are two types of battery life for wired and wireless headphones. The battery of wired noise-canceling headphones is typically between 20 and 30 hours. Bluetooth headphones have a battery life of 8 to 12 hours. However, some Bluetooth headphones can last up to 40 hours.
Bluetooth Headphones
A wireless headset can reproduce the sound quality of wired headset. It uses 2.4GHz Bluetooth, making it difficult for them to achieve the HD quality of wired headset.
Wireless headphones may also be more susceptible to interference than wired models. Bluetooth works at the same frequency as other Wi-Fi devices. This means that your smartphone or other internet-enabled gadgets could interfere with your ability to enjoy the best audio quality.
We can’t forget about the effects of Bluetooth-compressed sound. Wireless headphones were initially designed to compress audio.
This resulted in a harsh and digital sound. New wireless headsets make improvements in this area. It can stream stereo audio over the SBC codec using an advanced audio distribution profile (A2DP).
Bluetooth is a significant factor in wireless headphones’ sound quality. Still, it is essential that you consider the quality of your headphones and the quality audio devices used to make them sound better. You can get the best sound quality with a high-quality audio device, whether wired headphones or wireless headphones.
Portability
Wired and wireless headsets can be carried both wirelessly and wired, but depending on the purpose of the headphone; some may be more portable than others.
Wireless headsets are a good option if you like to listen to music while jogging. They don’t make you feel heavy while you run. They are easy to put in your ear and will remain in place throughout your workout.
You might also consider wired gaming headphones if you work for a radio station. These headphones are lightweight and can be easily carried in a backpack. You can enjoy the many benefits of premium headphones every day and still have your headphones with you when you travel to work.
The cords that come with wired headphones can sometimes be a problem. To avoid getting your cords tangled, wrap them up before you place them in a bag.
Cords can get in the way if you’re running, exercising, or doing other strenuous activities. Wireless headphones might be a better choice than wired models for athletes or other active people.
Price Of Wireless Gaming Headset Vs Wired
If you compare headsets of equal quality, wired models are always more affordable than wireless. Because wired headset uses older technology and are more straightforward in design, they are generally cheaper.
Wireless headsets require a wireless dongle to function. They use advanced technology to transmit/receive data and also require more expensive hardware.
They are more expensive than wired alternatives due to their advanced technology and the need for wireless transmitters. Wireless technology is growing in popularity, so the gap between the prices may shrink.
Wireless Gaming Headset Vs. Wired: Which One Is Right For You?
This is a question that can’t be answered with a hardwired solution. Your lifestyle and the activities you use your headphones most often will determine which are the best gaming headsets for you. Different lifestyles demand different features.
Here is a list that will help you choose the right headphones for your needs.
For Whom Are Wired Headphones Useful?
Office workers
No-nonsense headsets are essential for office workers, particularly those working in customer service. They should have headsets capable of delivering high-quality sound and good input. These headphones are best for those areas.
The best part is that wired headphone doesn’t need to be charged. It means office workers can plug it in immediately and get to work. This is much more convenient than waiting for headphones to charge.
Musicians And Audiophiles
Musicians and audiophiles share one thing in common: they have ‘well-trained hearing.’ They believe music should be heard the way it “ought” to be heard. They value every musical note and bass beat.
It is no secret that wired headphone produces better sound quality than wireless headsets. They can hear the slightest difference in sound quality with their trained ears. Both prefer wired headphones to wireless.
Gamers Who Cannot Afford Latency
Precision is the key to hardcore gamers. They can’t afford any level of latency, especially when playing intensely. Any sound delay could lead to them losing their position or, worse, even the game itself.
Wireless headphones are preferred by gamers who don’t tolerate sound delay. Even Bluetooth headphones with low latency can be susceptible to unexpected interferences. This is why wired headphones can be more reliable in terms of latency issues.
Budget-conscious People
Wireless headphones are much more expensive than wired ones, as we have already discussed. The headphones may be cheaper without wireless technology.
Even if they are tight on budget, the headphones will still deliver good sound quality (and perhaps even better!) You can also use wired headphones.
People Who Prefer Plug And Play
Wired headphones are the best option for those who prefer simple technology. They are easy to use and have an intuitive interface that allows for wireless pairing.
For Whom Are Wireless Headphones Best Suited?
Active People Or Athletes
It has been a common practice to listen to music while working out or training since the invention of headphones. Wireless headsets are great for athletes and those who exercise.
They are lightweight and allow for unrestricted mobility. Wireless headphones are the best choice for them.
Wireless headsets are recommended for athletes and those who work in noisy environments or are exposed to constant noise.
Bluetooth hearing protection devices are available on the market to make your life easier, not only for your ears but also to prevent wires from getting caught up in other equipment.
Frequent Travellers
Wireless headphones are lightweight and compact, as we have already mentioned. They are ideal for frequent travelers because of these two characteristics. These headphones are portable and can be used to keep passengers entertained on long train or plane rides.
People Who Want More Freedom In Movement
Wireless headsets are more mobile than wired ones. Wireless headphones users can move closer to the device without worrying about losing their wireless connection. They experience a more immersive experience.
Conclusion
So, wired vs wireless gaming headset, which is better for you? It’s all personal preference. The sound of wired headphones is the best for audiophiles and office workers. For those who enjoy moving, wireless gaming headsets can be an absolute dream. Rezence hopes you find this article helpful and that you will enjoy wearing your new proper headphones.