Gaming headsets test: the best sound for gaming

The Razer Kraken X is a solid all-rounder. In addition to the PC, the cable headset can also be used on consoles. It is comfortable to wear on the head, the auricles could be a bit larger. The sound is also not free from errors. The bass is slightly in the foreground and there is a lack of brilliance. The spatial representation, on the other hand, is great and the direction of the shot can be precisely determined. The microphone convinces with a natural sound. A shame: The Razer transmits breathing noises clearly audible to the other players.

In the COMPUTER-BILD-TEST, the various models are subjected to a detailed test. The most important test point is the sound, which is included in the rating with more than 50 percent. With a gaming headset, it is not only decisive for the fun of the game, it may even decide whether to win or lose – for example, when it comes to determining the exact position of an opponent. That is why the COMPUTER BILD laboratory subjects the sound to a series of tests. For the hearing test, the devices are initially set to the same volume before the testers analyze the playback of music, effects and voices, including the spatial location. They check their impression with the help of reference headphones.

Distortion and harmonic distortion put to the test

The digital measurements take place in a soundproofed room in which no acoustic signal goes unnoticed. In the chamber specially constructed for the COMPUTER BILD test laboratory, there is an artificial head with highly sensitive ears that are based on human hearing. After the test device has been placed on it, the Audio Precision measuring unit analyzes the frequency responses and checks the sound neutrality between 20 Hertz and 20 Kilohertz. The testers also determine the technically distortion-free maximum volume. The test also reveals possible differences between the left and right side. Whether other people in the room involuntarily overhear while playing is shown by the determination of the ambient sound. This is measured at 90 and 100 decibels at a distance of 1 meter. In the further procedure, the testers examine the microphone quality as well as the wearing comfort. The test laboratory also records the adjustment options for adapting the headset to the player’s head. Then the scope of functions and value are put to the test. The service concludes.

The testers rate the included accessories as well as the functionality of the software – whether, for example, 3D emulators or preset settings are available for certain games or whether registration is necessary. The note also includes the surround sound formats that the gaming headset reproduces and the connection options that are available. Models like that JBL Quantum 800 stand out positively on this point and provide extensive software with many sound adjustment options. The headset can be used wirelessly or with a cable (USB and 3.5 millimeter jack). In addition to the functions, material, quality and workmanship are important. Particularly cheap models like that Acer Predator Galea 311 look anything but high-quality due to their cheap-looking plastic.

Is it possible to adjust the volume quickly even in the fast-paced thunderstorm, or is it difficult to operate the system? Good accessibility of the buttons scores points here, as does a good pressure point and convenient options for assigning the buttons. The HyperX Cloud Alpha S delivers a very good result in this test point. This is due, among other things, to the handy control element on the headset’s cable. The line itself is enormous, over 3 meters long. In order to determine how long a cordless device can hold out during extended gaming sessions, the test laboratory sends a continuous signal to the headset until the battery is empty. The testers then determine the charging time. In addition, the possible range of wireless devices until the transmission is interrupted is on the test bench. It is an absolute endurance runner Nacon RIG 800LX with a remarkable running time of 40 hours and 35 minutes. On the other hand, the 13.5 hours of the Roccat Elo 7.1 Air almost laughable.

Wired or wireless headset? Opinions are divided. Some gamers swear by wireless models like that Logitech G733 or that Roccat Elo 7.1 Airbecause it has no cord to get tangled up in the heat of the moment. Other players forego a little more freedom of movement because they worry that instructions, agreements and hints will be delayed when they reach the other players via radio – especially with online shooters, milliseconds often make the difference between life and death. Are the concerns justified? Only in part. In the test, the latencies of the wireless gaming headsets were on a low level: They were barely noticeable in the game. The trained ears of a musician detect delays from five milliseconds, but laypeople only from 20 milliseconds.

Good wearing comfort is much more important for gaming headsets than an endless list of equipment. Nevertheless, some basic functions must be present:

• Volume control: The headset should have either a wired remote control or control buttons on the earphones. In this way, the volume can be comfortably increased or decreased without having to call up the Windows volume control or the game options.
• Mute: A button that can be used to mute the microphone is useful – for example, if the gamer is discussing something with family or friends in the same room that the whole world should not hear.
• Detachable microphone: Anyone who often listens to their favorite music over the gaming headset like with classic headphones will be happy about a detachable microphone. Alternative: gaming headsets with microphones that can be stowed in the earphones – like the Razer Thresher we tested.
• Rotatable auricle: A movable auricle is also helpful. So the gamer can listen to a conversation in the same room without taking off the headset – he always stays in the game with one ear.

comparison

Razer, Corsair or Logitech: gaming headsets put to the test

The wired one achieved first place in this group test Asus Rog Strix Go: The sound quality is great, as is the wearing comfort. Only the microphone could be a little better. If you prefer to gamble without a cord, take it Logitech G Pro X Gaming Headset. It convinced the testers with its great sound. It sits comfortably on the listeners and in addition to a second set of ear pads, there are many other extras included. It’s worth it for gamers with a smaller budget Razer Kraken X. The cable headset sounds quite decent, opposing players can also be easily determined in the room with this model. However, gamers shouldn’t expect too much from the microphone.