Headphones/headset for gaming and music.

w1llyg · 6 Nov 2019 at 09:06

Morning Members,

Christmas is coming and my girlfriend wants to treat me to some new headphones/headset.

Budget no more than £300

Usage
- Music and films for travelling with my pixel 3(noise cancelling ideal)
- PC gaming (Light PS4 usage too).

I do have a microphone for my PC, FIFINE home microphone (cost £25).

Thanks in advance
Will

Marsman · 6 Nov 2019 at 17:14

I think this could be a little tricky to get a headphone that excels in both areas, because portable and noise cancelling, is the complete opposite to what makes a good gaming headphone.

Headphones that are good for gaming, tend to be big, wired and open backed. The opposite to what you'd want for a portable headphone.

Sony WH-1000XM3 or Bose QC35, are best choices for portable headphones that have really good noise cancelling. Shouldn't be any issue in using them for gaming, as both will more than likely have a 3.5mm wired connection that can be used with PC. You could use Bluetooth if your motherboard supports it, or you have a Bluetooth dongle.

For gaming; I suppose it depends how serious a gamer you are, and whether you just want headphones that will work and offer good sound, irrespective of imersive gaming performance, or whether you're looking for headphones offer a more immersive experience.

PapaLazaru · 6 Nov 2019 at 19:32

The new AKG K371 are getting glowing reviews. No noise cancelling but closed back and portable and easy to drive. And well within budget.

w1llyg · 7 Nov 2019 at 07:16

After doing research, like you said I don't think there is a noise cancelling gaming headset

The Arctic pro wireless seem to get decent reviews? The black ones can be had for ~£255.

mid_gen · 7 Nov 2019 at 09:12

Sony WH1000XM3 does everything for me.

I use a v-moda boompro in-line mic when I want to use a microphone or connect to Xb1/PS4, but otherwise just over bluetooth.

Comfort and noise-cancelling wise there's nothing better right now imo.

the_chez · 11 Apr 2021 at 17:48

mid_gen said:
Sony WH1000XM3 does everything for me.

I use a v-moda boompro in-line mic when I want to use a microphone or connect to Xb1/PS4, but otherwise just over bluetooth.

Comfort and noise-cancelling wise there's nothing better right now imo.

Sorry for the revival however I'm curious to hear if you actually still use the same setup or if you had any issues with the XM3s + V-Moda BoomPro.

mid_gen · 11 Apr 2021 at 19:20

the_chez said:
Sorry for the revival however I'm curious to hear if you actually still use the same setup or if you had any issues with the XM3s + V-Moda BoomPro.

No problems, used for a few years now! Although since working from home I've used a usb mic mounted on a desk clamp for convenience sake.

the_chez · 12 Apr 2021 at 08:51

mid_gen said:
No problems, used for a few years now! Although since working from home I've used a usb mic mounted on a desk clamp for convenience sake.

Good stuff, thanks for getting back to me. Will pull the trigger and get one.

Wish it was possible to be fully wireless though however from what I've read once you have something plugged in the jack it will be wired. Don't mind as long as I don't have to pay a ridiculous amount for another pair when XM3s are already amazing.

mid_gen · 12 Apr 2021 at 09:00

the_chez said:
Good stuff, thanks for getting back to me. Will pull the trigger and get one.

Wish it was possible to be fully wireless though however from what I've read once you have something plugged in the jack it will be wired. Don't mind as long as I don't have to pay a ridiculous amount for another pair when XM3s are already amazing.

Well, you can just use any other microphone you want, on your desk or whatever, and still run the headphones wireless.

You'd think they would have come up with a Bluetooth spec by now that can handle high quality audio both directions, it's a bit lame really, but not the headphones fault!

the_chez · 13 Apr 2021 at 10:35

mid_gen said:
Well, you can just use any other microphone you want, on your desk or whatever, and still run the headphones wireless.

You'd think they would have come up with a Bluetooth spec by now that can handle high quality audio both directions, it's a bit lame really, but not the headphones fault!

Managed to snag a new - open unused V-Moda BoomPro from eBay for £19. Even if plugged in, the sound and microphone quality will top most gaming headsets.

Considering the XM3s are not dedicated for PC this is a good workaround. Glad I looked on forums for this alternative.