Ready to upgrade your PC audio game? Whether you’re battling online foes, crafting epic content, or just chatting with friends, a top-notch headset with a clear microphone makes a world of difference.
The world of PC headsets is vast, with options for every gamer, content creator, and professional on a budget. Finding the right combination of sound quality, microphone clarity, and comfort can be a challenge. Let’s explore the best headphones with microphones that will revolutionize your PC experience.
Considerations Before Buying Headphones with Microphone for PC
Sound Quality
- Balance: Do you want a balanced sound profile (even bass, mids, treble) or a preference for powerful bass or crisp highs?
- Soundstage: Do you prefer a wide, open soundstage for a sense of space or more direct and focused sound?
Microphone Performance
- Voice Clarity: Look for noise reduction features or cardioid pickup patterns that focus on your voice while minimizing background noise.
- Usability: Do you need a boom mic, a retractable mic, or is a less visible in-line mic sufficient? Consider features like flip-to-mute.
Comfort & Design
- Long Wear: Consider lightweight designs, breathable earcups (leatherette vs. fabric), and adjustability for all-day comfort.
- Durability: Assess construction quality. Will the headset withstand regular use or potentially rougher handling during travel?
Features & Software
- Equalization (EQ): Do you want granular control to fine-tune the sound profile? Look for headsets with accompanying software.
- Surround Sound: Software-based surround sound solutions can create immersive audio experiences, especially for gaming.
Budget
- Price Range: Establish a budget range to narrow down your search. Excellent options exist across different price points.
- Value Proposition: Consider the balance of features, quality, and price to get the most out of your investment.
Review of Best Headphone with Microphone for PC
Here are some of the best headphones for you.
Best Overall: Logitech Pro X
The Pro X delivers a notably balanced sound signature. This means the bass doesn’t overpower the mid-range or the treble frequencies. This versatility makes it excellent for various uses.
Price: $100-150
Features:
- Pro-G 50mm Drivers: Logitech’s custom-designed drivers provide a well-rounded sound with punchy bass, clear mids, and crisp highs.
- Detachable Boom Microphone: Features Blue VO!CE technology for real-time voice adjustments, including noise reduction and EQ controls.
- DTS Headphone:X 2.0 Surround Sound: Experience immersive 7.1 channel virtual surround sound for enhanced positioning awareness in games (software-enabled).
- Durable Construction: Metal frame and high-quality materials ensure longevity and a premium feel.
- Comfortable Design: Features plush memory foam ear cups covered in either leatherette or breathable velour (both sets included) and a comfortable headband.
- Software Customization: Logitech G Hub software allows for EQ adjustments, microphone tuning, and surround sound settings.
Pros:
- Balanced Sound: Provides a versatile audio experience great for gaming, music, and movies.
- Excellent Microphone: The Blue VO!CE-equipped microphone delivers crystal-clear voice chat with customization options.
- Sturdy and Comfortable: The build quality is solid, and the headset design allows for long gaming sessions without discomfort.
- Comprehensive Software: Logitech G Hub provides powerful controls for custom tailoring your sound.
Cons:
- Not Truly Wireless: The Pro X is a wired headset, limiting movement compared to wireless options.
- Sound Signature: While balanced, some might find the sound a bit less exciting than certain bass-heavy competitors.
- May Require Setup Tweaks: Achieving optimal sound may involve adjustments within the G Hub software.
Best Wireless: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro
The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is a high-end wireless headset designed with competitive gamers in mind. It boasts impressive features for a winning audio experience, but comes at a premium price. Here’s a breakdown of its key aspects:
Price: $200 to 250.
Features:
- Razer HyperSpeed Wireless: Razer’s proprietary wireless technology promises a lag-free connection with minimal latency, crucial for competitive gaming.
- Razer TriForce Titanium 50mm Drivers: These custom drivers separate audio frequencies (bass, mid, treble) for enhanced clarity and detail, allowing you to pinpoint in-game sounds with precision.
- THX Spatial Audio: This surround sound technology creates a realistic 360-degree soundscape, immersing you in the game environment and potentially giving you an edge in hearing enemy footsteps or gunfire location.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Block out distractions with ANC technology, ensuring you stay focused on the game.
- Razer HyperClear Cardioid Microphone: This microphone utilizes a pickup design that concentrates on your voice while minimizing background noise for clear communication with teammates.
- Comfortable Design: Memory foam ear cups and a breathable fabric headband ensure comfort during extended gaming sessions.
- Long Battery Life: Enjoy up to 24 hours of wireless use on a single charge (without ANC enabled).
- Chroma RGB Lighting: Razer’s signature lighting system allows for 16.8 million color options and various lighting effects for a personalized aesthetic.
Pros:
- Excellent Audio Quality: The combination of Razer’s drivers and THX Spatial Audio delivers crisp, detailed, and immersive sound.
- Lag-Free Wireless: The Razer HyperSpeed technology minimizes latency for a seamless gaming experience.
- Crystal Clear Microphone: Your teammates will hear you loudly and accurately thanks to the noise-canceling microphone.
- Superior Comfort: Designed for long wearability with breathable materials and memory foam padding.
- Active Noise Cancellation: Blocks out distractions for a focused gaming environment (especially valuable in noisy environments).
- Long Battery Life: Provides ample playtime on a single charge.
Cons:
- High Price: The BlackShark V2 Pro sits at the superior end of the gaming headset market.
- Limited Platform Compatibility: Software features like EQ and THX Spatial Audio require Razer Synapse software, only available on PC. Console gamers miss out on some customization options.
- Sound Isolation (Not Noise Cancellation): The ear cups provide good passive noise isolation, but ANC performance might not be as strong as some dedicated noise-canceling headphones.
- Closed Back Design: While comfortable, the closed-back design can trap heat around the ears and may not be ideal for extended use in hot environments.
Best for Audiophiles: Sony Inzone H9
The Sony Inzone H9 is a wireless gaming headset crafted with a focus on audiophile-grade sound quality and noise cancellation. It aims to elevate your listening experience but carries a premium price tag. Let’s dive into the details:
Price: $250 to 300
Features:
- Hi-Res Audio: Certified for high-resolution audio, the Inzone H9 delivers exceptionally detailed and nuanced sound across the frequency spectrum.
- 360 Spatial Sound for Gaming: Experience precise object-based spatial audio for pinpoint in-game awareness. This technology requires personalization via the INZONE Hub software.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Block out the world with potent active noise cancellation. This ensures focused, distraction-free listening.
- Ambient Sound Mode: Quickly switch to hear your surroundings without removing the headset, convenient for a quick conversation.
- Comfortable Design: Features soft-fit leather earpads and a wide, cushioned headband for long-lasting comfort.
- Simultaneous Connection: Connect to both your PC via the wireless USB dongle and your phone via Bluetooth for taking calls mid-game.
- Long Battery Life: Enjoy up to 32 hours of playtime on a single charge (without ANC enabled).
- Discord Certified: Guarantees clear and reliable voice communication in the Discord application.
Pros:
- Immersive, High-Quality Audio: The Inzone H9 truly shines with its audiophile-grade sound, delivering a detailed and rich listening experience for music, movies, and games.
- Powerful Noise Cancellation: ANC blocks out distractions effectively, allowing for true immersion in your audio.
- Simultaneous Connection: A convenient feature for those who want to take phone calls or listen to music from their phone while gaming.
- Excellent Comfort: The lightweight design, spacious earcups, and soft materials make the Inzone H9 suitable for extended wear.
Cons:
- High Price: One of the most expensive gaming headsets on the market.
- Limited Microphone Quality: While the microphone is sufficient for basic communication, it doesn’t excel at the level of dedicated broadcast-style microphones.
- Focus on Audio over Chat: The Inzone H9 prioritizes pure audio enjoyment over features tailored to highly competitive chat-focused gamers.
- Soundstage Prioritization: The Sony Inzone H9 slightly emphasizes a wide soundstage over pinpointing directional audio with the same accuracy as some competitive-focused headsets.
Best Value Wireless: JBL Quantum 350
The JBL Quantum 350 is a wireless gaming headset that aims to balance good performance and affordability. Here’s a breakdown of its characteristics:
Price: $75-100
Features:
- JBL QuantumSURROUND: Simulates a wider soundstage via JBL’s software for increased immersion in compatible games and movies.
- JBL QuantumENGINE Software: Allows for some degree of audio customization with features like EQ settings and limited surround sound options.
- Wireless Connectivity: Operates with a 2.4 GHz wireless USB dongle, offering a lag-free connection.
- Detachable Boom Microphone: Features a simple flip-to-mute design.
- Long Battery Life: JBL claims up to 22 hours of wireless usage on a single charge.
- Lightweight Design: Prioritizes comfort aimed at preventing fatigue during extended gaming sessions.
Pros:
- Affordability: The Quantum 350 positions itself well in the budget-friendly wireless headset category.
- Wireless Freedom: Provides the convenience of wireless with decent audio performance.
- Long Battery Life: The ample playtime means you can focus on gaming rather than constantly worrying about plugging in to recharge.
- Decent Comfort: Its lightweight construction aims to make it comfortable for long gaming periods.
Cons:
- Average Sound Quality: The audio performance is acceptable but lacks the refinement and detail of higher-end headsets.
- Limited Customization: The QuantumENGINE software offers basic customizations but doesn’t have the same depth as some competitors’ software suites.
- Microphone Quality: The microphone serves for basic team communication, but lacks the clarity and noise reduction of more advanced microphones.
- Build Quality: It feels a bit plasticky and less substantial than some higher-priced options.
Best Budget Option: HyperX Cloud Stinger Core
The HyperX Cloud Stinger Core is a wired gaming headset with a strong focus on value. It sheds fancy features in favor of simple, reliable functionality at a very affordable price. Here’s a look at its features, pros, and cons:
Price: $30-50
Features:
- Basic Stereo Sound: Delivers a no-frills stereo audio experience for gaming and media.
- Lightweight Design: Prioritizes comfort aimed at long gaming sessions.
- On-Ear Volume Control: Convenient volume slider located directly on the headset.
- Swivel-to-Mute Microphone: A simple and intuitive way to mute your microphone.
- Compatible with Multiple Platforms: Works with PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and mobile gadgets with a 3.5mm jack.
Pros:
- Extremely Affordable: One of the most budget-friendly options from a well-respected gaming brand.
- Surprisingly Clear Microphone: Delivers clear voice communication that exceeds expectations for its price.
- Comfortable & Lightweight: Won’t cause fatigue during extended gaming marathons.
- Plug-and-Play Simplicity: No complex software – just plug it in, and it works across a wide range of devices.
Cons:
- Limited Sound Quality: The audio experience is decent but lacks the detail and depth of higher-priced headsets.
- No Surround Sound: Only offers basic stereo audio.
- Build Quality: Feels a bit plasticky compared to more premium HyperX models.
- Minimalist Features: No fancy extras like RGB lighting, EQ controls, or detachable microphones.
Bonus Solution: Hollyland Solidcom C1 Systems
The Hollyland Solidcom C1 is an excellent wireless intercom system for settings where crystal-clear communication and team coordination are paramount. Film crews, event organizers, broadcasters, and similar teams will find value in its reliable range, superb audio quality, and ease of use.
Price: The price varies based on the number of headsets in the bundle:
- 2 Headset Pack: Around $600 to 700
- 4 Headset Pack: Around $1000+
- Larger packs and standalone headsets are also available
Full-Duplex Wireless Intercom Headset System for Team Talk.
Features:
- Full-Duplex Wireless Communication: Headsets communicate simultaneously like walkie-talkies, allowing for real-time natural conversations.
- 1000ft (350m) Transmission Range: Provides wide coverage in production environments or large venues.
- DECT 6.0 Technology: Ensures a reliable, secure connection minimizing interference.
- Team Communication: Up to 8 headsets can be linked for seamless coordination within a group.
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours runtime (master), 5-6 hours (remotes) with quick charging capabilities.
- Exceptional Noise Cancellation: Microphones focus on voice and reduce background distractions.
- Comfortable & Lightweight Design: Suitable for long periods of use.
Pros:
- Crystal-Clear Communication: The audio quality is designed for clear voice transmission in even noisy environments.
- Wide Wireless Range: Provides freedom of movement on set or in large spaces.
- Easy Team Setup: The system is user-friendly with quick pairing and simple operation.
- Comfortable to Wear: Headsets are lightweight and designed for extended use without fatigue.
- Solid Build Quality: The headsets feel durable and suitable for professional environments.
Cons:
- High Price: A significant investment, especially for individual use or small teams.
- Focus on Voice, Not Music: Audio quality is prioritized for communication clarity, not immersive music listening.
- Overkill for Single Users: Features are primarily geared toward team communication scenarios.
- PC Connectivity Requires Adapter: Using the Solidcom C1 with a PC needs the additional purchase of a Hollyland USB audio adapter.
FAQs
Why are headphones with microphones important for PC use?
They enhance your PC experience in multiple ways, offering clear communication for gaming, voice chat, video conferencing, and content creation.
What are the key differences between wired and wireless headsets?
Wired headsets offer reliable connections and minimal latency. Wireless headsets prioritize freedom of movement but can sometimes experience minor lag or interference.
What should I look for in headphone sound quality?
Consider balance (bass, mid, treble), soundstage (feeling of space), and any preference for a “fun” vs. accurate sound signature.
What is surround sound, and do I need it?
Surround sound (often simulated through software) creates a more immersive audio experience, especially for gaming. It’s not essential for everyone.
What extra features are worth paying more for?
Features like customizable EQ, wireless charging, or RGB lighting add cost but can enhance your experience.
How do I know if a headset has a good microphone?
Look for reviews, specs mentioning noise reduction or pickup patterns, and sample audio recordings if possible.
Final Thought!
Ready to make the jump to better audio? Don’t settle for mediocre PC experiences! Whether you’re battling it out with online rivals, streaming your creative process, or simply chatting with friends, investing in a quality headset with a great microphone significantly enhances your interaction with your computer.
