Why Closed-Back Headphones Dominate Gaming Headsets

So you’ve decided to invest in a decent gaming headset to up your audio experience while playing your favorite games. As you start shopping around, you’ll quickly notice that most gaming headsets have closed-back designs instead of open-back. Ever wondered why that is?

There are a few reasons closed-back reigns supreme in the gaming headset world. Closed-back headsets block ambient noise to provide an isolated listening experience, allowing you to focus on the game audio.

They also contain sound, so you won’t disturb anyone around you with the sounds of gunfire and explosions. For competitive gamers, closed-back offers an advantage since you can pinpoint the location of sounds more accurately.

While open-back headsets have their benefits too, closed-back will always dominate the gaming headset market.

What Are Closed-Back Headphones?

Closed-back headphones are designed with ear cups that fully enclose your ears. This closed design helps block out external noise so you can focus on the audio coming through the headphones. For gaming, closed-back cans are ideal since they isolate you from ambient noise in your environment.

Why Closed-Back Headphones Are Preferred for Gaming

Gaming headsets almost always opt for closed-back headphones instead of open-back. There are a few reasons why closed-back reigns supreme for gaming:

Superior Sound Isolation

The closed design prevents sound from escaping and stops outside noise from entering your headphones. This allows you to hear more details in the audio and prevents distractions. You’ll be able to pick up subtle cues in your game like faint footsteps sneaking up behind you or the click of a reload off in the distance.

Powerful Bass

Closed-back headphones produce powerful bass since the closed design helps contain the lower frequency sounds. The thump of explosions, roar of engines, and punch of gunshots will have more impact. For many gamers, a headset with bold bass brings more excitement and a sense of realism.

Less Sound Leakage

With closed-back headphones, the audio is directed into your ears rather than spilling out into the room. This means less chance of bothering someone near you or being overheard during an intense multiplayer match. Your loud gaming sessions can remain private.

Durability

The sealed, solid design of closed-back headphones also makes them more durable. Open-back headphones have vents and grills that expose the internal components to potential damage. For the frequent use and potential wear-and-tear of gaming headsets, closed-back offers better protection.

While open-back does provide a wider, airier soundstage, for gaming and the benefits of sound isolation, impactful bass, privacy, and durability, closed-back headphones are really the only choice for gaming headsets. They offer the most immersive experience that gaming demands.

Related: Open back VS Closed Back Headphones Detailed Comparison. Read Now!

Tips For Choosing Closed-Back Headphones for Gaming

When choosing closed-back headphones for gaming, it’s important to consider a few key factors. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision:

The Importance of Comfort in Gaming Headsets

While closed-back headphones have undoubtedly dominated the gaming headset market for various reasons, it’s crucial not to overlook the significance of comfort in enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Comfortable gaming headsets can make a significant difference in long gaming sessions, preventing discomfort and fatigue. So, let’s dive into why comfort matters and what features to consider when choosing a gaming headset.

Ergonomic Design for Prolonged Gaming Sessions

Comfortable gaming headsets feature an ergonomic design that caters to the unique needs of gamers. Padded headbands and cushioned ear cups ensure a snug fit without exerting excessive pressure on your head.

The lightweight design of these headsets allows for extended use without straining your neck or causing discomfort. Additionally, adjustable headbands and rotatable ear cups ensure a customized fit for every gamer.

Breathability and Sweat Resistance for Intense Gaming

Intense gaming sessions can often result in increased body heat and sweat. That’s why it’s essential to choose a gaming headset that offers breathability and sweat resistance.

Look for headsets with breathable materials and mesh padding that promote airflow and prevent excessive sweating. This not only keeps you comfortable but also maintains the longevity of your headset.

Consideration for Glasses-Wearing Gamers

Many gamers wear glasses, and it’s crucial to consider their comfort when selecting a gaming headset. Look for headsets with adjustable ear cups that can accommodate glasses without causing pressure points or discomfort.

Additionally, headsets with glasses-friendly designs that alleviate strain on the temples or frames are a game-changer for glasses-wearing gamers.

Wired vs. Wireless: Balancing Convenience and Comfort

Choosing between wired and wireless gaming headsets often comes down to personal preference. Wired headsets provide a reliable connection, ensuring uninterrupted gameplay, while wireless options offer freedom of movement.

When it comes to comfort, consider factors like battery life and weight for wireless headsets, as well as cable length and tangle-free designs for wired ones.

Additional Features to Enhance Comfort

Some gaming headsets offer additional features that elevate comfort to the next level. Adjustable mic booms allow you to position the microphone optimally for clear communication without straining your neck.

Integrated volume controls and audio presets at your fingertips eliminate the need for constant adjustments, enhancing convenience during gameplay.

In conclusion, while closed-back headphones dominate the gaming headset market for their sound quality and noise isolation, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of comfort.

Top Closed-Back Gaming Headsets on the Market

Closed-back headphones are designed to block out external noise, which is ideal for gaming. Some of the top closed-back gaming headsets currently on the market include:

HyperX Cloud Revolver

The HyperX Cloud Revolver is one of the best closed-back gaming headsets and provides amazing sound quality for the price. It features 50mm drivers that deliver clear highs, deep bass, and a wide soundstage so you can pinpoint the direction of sounds.

The memory foam ear pads keep outside noise out and are very comfortable for long gaming sessions. At around $100, the Revolver S is an affordable, high-quality choice for serious gamers.

SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless

If money is no object, the Arctis Pro Wireless is one of the best gaming headsets you can buy. It provides lossless 2.4G wireless audio, Bluetooth connectivity, and a swappable battery that lasts over 20 hours.

The ski goggle headband and ear cushions made of breathable airwave fabric keep you comfortable for hours. With its high-resolution DAC and 40mm drivers, the Arctis Pro delivers an amazing gaming audio experience. However, its around $330 price tag may be too steep for some budgets.

ASTRO Gaming A50

A popular premium gaming headset, the ASTRO A50 provides an excellent combination of audio and mic quality, comfort, and wireless connectivity.

It features 5GHz wireless for solid connectivity, Dolby Digital 7.1 surround sound, and 40mm drivers for immersive audio. The A50 has a flip-up mic, comfy memory foam earpads, and an adjustable headband. While not cheap at around $280, the A50 is a high-quality wireless headset that should last for years.

Razer BlackShark V2

The Razer BlackShark V2 is a competitively priced closed-back gaming headset at around $70. It provides crisp sound, deep bass, and clear highs thanks to its custom-tuned 50mm drivers.

The plush memory foam ear cushions block out noise and remain comfortable for long play sessions. An adjustable steel slider and lightweight design provide a snug yet comfortable fit. For budget-conscious gamers, the BlackShark V2 is a solid, affordable choice.

Open-Back VS Closed Back Headphones for Gaming

Open-back vs. closed-back headphones—Which is better for gaming? For most gamers, closed-back headphones are the way to go. Here’s why:

Isolation

Closed-back headphones isolate you from outside noise. This means you’ll be fully immersed in the game without distraction. Open-back headphones let in ambient noise, so you’ll hear everything going on around you.

When you’re gaming, the last thing you want is to hear your roommate vacuuming or your neighbor mowing the lawn. Closed-back headphones block all that out.

Bass

Closed-back headphones typically produce more powerful bass. Explosions, gunshots, and vehicle sounds will have a satisfying boom.

Open-back headphones tend to have weaker bass since sound is escaping. For many gamers, powerful bass is essential for an exciting experience. Closed-back headphones deliver on the low end.

Leakage

Sound leakage is minimal with closed-back headphones. Open-back headphones leak a lot of sound, so anyone near you can hear what you’re listening to.

Closed-back headphones contain the sound so you can game without disturbing others. Your friends or family members won’t be subjected to the sounds from your game at high volume.

Comfort

Many people find closed-back headphones more comfortable for long gaming sessions. They fully enclose your ears, blocking out external sound and creating a cozy, isolated environment.

Open-back headphones may feel less natural since there’s no seal around your ears. For marathon gaming, the extra comfort of closed-back headphones is ideal.

While open-back headphones certainly have their benefits for music listening or monitoring, for gaming, closed-back headphones win out.

With their powerful bass, noise isolation, lack of sound leakage, and comfort, closed-back headphones deliver an immersive experience that open-back models simply can’t match.

For the ultimate gaming experience, closed-back headphones are the superior choice.

Conclusion

So there you have it, those are the main reasons why closed-back headphones reign supreme in the gaming headset market. They block out background noise so you can focus, provide an immersive experience with punchy bass, and prevent sound leakage so you don’t disturb others. Open-back models certainly have their place for music listening at home, but when it comes to gaming, closed-back is the way to go. The next time you’re shopping for a new headset, keep these factors in mind — your teammates will thank you, and your gameplay will be all the better for it. Happy listening and happy gaming!