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Best Gaming Earbuds – How to Choose Earbuds for Gaming
Earbuds allow gamers to enjoy their favorite video games on the go. Whether you are on a commute, relaxing between classes, or simply prefer gaming earbuds to a headset, you can trust a reliable pair of gaming earbuds to give you the immersive gaming experience you deserve.
In 2019, not only are gaming earbuds comfortable and well designed, they also produce sounds that are as rich as that of any speaker or headset. Most gamers prefer wired headphones to wireless headphones as wired headphones lack latency and are generally more reliable.
Because of this, most of the gaming earbuds reviews are for wired products. Before we review the best gaming earbuds of 2019, take a look at some important factors to consider before acquiring an in-ear gaming headset.
Table of Contents
In a Rush? Here’s Our Top Picks:
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HyperX Cloud Earbuds Gaming Headphones with Mic for Nintendo Switch and Mobile Gaming
Cooler Master Masterpulse MH710 Gaming Earbuds with Extra Ear Tips, 10mm Drivers, Focux FX 2.0 technology, and Compatibility with PC, Xbox One, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and Mobile Devices
Betron DC950HI Earphone,Noise Isolating Earbuds with Mic and Remote Control, Powerful Bass, Replaceable Earbuds, Portable Headphones, Compatible with iPhone, iPad, Samsung and Tablets, Blac
The average frequency response of most quality headsets is 20 Hz to 20,000 kHz. This is the range of human hearing. A wider frequency range isn’t automatically better. However, a smaller range can affect the range of sounds the headset produces.
Sound Profile
Bassheads prefer bass-heavy sound profiles. However, most gamers prefer wide-open sound profiles since it’s important that every sound is well detailed. This allows you to hear even the quietest of in-game noise produced around you. Large drivers help boost bass and as such bassheads prefer those. The average driver for earbuds is 10 mm.
Noise Isolating or Noise Cancelling
There is a difference between noise isolation and noise cancellation. While both technologies try to reduce the amount of noise that reaches your ear, noise cancellation is much more advanced than noise isolation. With noise isolation, a tight seal is created by the ear tips which helps keep sound out. Many times, noise isolation earbuds are a tight fit and can be uncomfortable for some.
Noise cancellation, on the other hand, uses microphones and algorithms to produce sound signals that cancel outside sounds. Earbuds with this feature are usually more expensive and more effective at allowing you to hear only the game.
Best Gaming Earbuds Reviews
Betron DC950HI Earphones – Best Cheap Gaming Earbuds
Finely balanced and discreetly styled, these in-ear headphones from Betron are easy to slip into a pocket or backpack
Their punchy audio output unlocks more detail in every track and with a handy built-in microphone, taking and making calls is simple
These comfortable, secure-fitting, ergonomic, silicone earbuds are lightweight enough to give tip-top music mobility
Take calls, play and pause your music on the move via the built-in mic and remote
Noise isolating ear gels seal out unwanted sound and help ensure that your music stays right where it belongs in the ear
Most of the best gaming earbuds are costly and acquiring them usually takes a sizeable chunk out of your budget. That is where the Betron DC950Hi Earphones shine through. Not only are they well made, but also they are super affordable.
These earphones have 11.5 mm drivers with an outstanding frequency response range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. With these characteristics, you get good quality audio. Three different sized ear tips are included. The choice allows you to get an ear tip that fits perfectly. In addition, a sleek metal case is included.
The downside of the best cheap gaming earbuds is the microphone, which fails to capture voices with as much clarity as other more expensive earbuds mics do. Additionally, the mic doesn’t have a mute button. Lastly, if you want to plug the earpiece into your PC, you need a separate adapter.
Connection – 3.5mm analog plug
Frequency Response – 20 Hz – 20,000 kHz
Microphone attached- Yes
Wireless option – No
Cord Length – 3.93 feet / 1.2 meters
Drivers – 11.5 mm Neodymium drivers
Extra features – Sound isolation
Pros
The Betron DC950HI has excellent drivers.
The sleek and stylish design of this earbuds and the case gives the appearance of expensive earbuds.
Designed for comfort: Exceptionally comfortable memory foam ear cushions and padded leatherette headband help keep you focused on gaming
Supreme audio quality: Large 53 millimeter drivers provide high-quality audio. Hear in-game details better and get the in-game advantage on your opponents
7.1 virtual surround sound: Truly immerse yourself in your games with hardware-driven virtual 7.1 surround sound for precisely located audio
Passive noise cancellation: The closed ear cup design blocks out outside distractions to keep you in the game
Built to last: The solid, durable aluminum frame is built to withstand the blows of daily use
HyperX is a popular gaming brand. Just like the gaming headsets created by HyperX, the earbuds are just as solid for gaming on the go.
HyperX Cloud Earbuds are eye-catching. The red and black design ensures that it doesn’t look or feel out of place among the rest of your gaming gears. While the shape of the earbuds is quite odd, the earbuds are very comfortable. Three separate pair of earbuds are included, each of a different size.
The audio produced is detailed and rich, with every step, kick, gunshot and explosion clear and full-bodied. Although the earbuds’ high mid boost may overshadow the low mid tones, this is a plus as in-game chats and voices are crystal clear even if this is not ideal for listening to music.
Connector – 3.5mm analog plug
Frequency Response – 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz
Microphone attached- Yes
Wireless option – No
Drivers – 14 mm neodymium drivers
Extra features – Two-year warranty,
Pros
The HyperX Cloud Earbuds produces detailed audio.
This earpiece features a great ergonomic design.
The microphone is specifically designed for in-game chat and it delivers.
The earpiece is durable.
Cons
This earpiece is not designed for listening to music.
12 millimeter dome type driver units deliver powerful deep bass. Connectivity Technology: Wired
Integrated microphone and smartphone playback control
Hybrid silicone earbuds for secure, comfortable fit
High-energy neodymium magnets for powerful sound
Tangle-free, Y-type flat cord with slider
The MDRXB50 Extra Bass Headset are popular among both gamers and music lovers. With a price range of $30 to $50, they are affordable. However, they produce rich sounds that rival even the most expensive headsets thanks to their 12 mm drivers and acoustically sealed earbuds.
They are excellent for PCs, game consoles, and smartphones. In order to get the mic working on a PC, you will have to get an adapter. This is quite common as most headsets fail to provide PC adapters.
Connector – 3.5mm analog plug
Frequency Response – 4 Hz – 24,000 Hz
Microphone attached- Yes
Wireless option – No
Drivers – 12 mm neodymium
Extra features – Sealed acoustic design, Tangle-Free Cable, smartphone playback control
Pros
The earbuds are comfortable.
As you have already guessed, the headset produces superb bass.
The headset is built to last.
Sounds produced are very audible.
Cons
The headset is bass heavy. (This is a disadvantage to purists.)
Power in a portable package - small, light, and portable for on-the-go premium sound
The Cooler Master MH710 In Ear Headset is one of the best all-around in-ear headsets you can get your hands on. Not only are they sleekly designed, but they also feature the Focus FX 2.0 technology. This allows gamers to customize the bass and treble levels with astute precision. The 10 mm neodymium drivers boost audio and ensure every sound is clear.
With this headset, you can easily tell the direction and location of every sound including footsteps, and gunshots. The in-line microphone is useful when you wish to communicate with both your team members and your opponents.
The ergonomic design allows you to comfortably wear them for hours. Since the earbuds come in three sizes (small, medium, and large), you can experiment and choose the size which is best for you.
Connector – 3.5mm analog plug
Frequency Response – 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz
Microphone attached- Yes
Wireless option – No
Drivers – 10 mm neodymium
Extra features – Focus FX 2.0 Technology, PC adapter
Pros
The Cooler Master comes with a PC adapter.
Earbuds come in three sizes for a comfortable fit.
The headset is made to last.
It includes a mic.
Sounds are very clear and distinct.
Cons
On the slightly more expensive end of the spectrum.
Included Components: QuietComfort 20 headphones, Apple devices, 3 pairs StayHear tips (S, M, L), clothing clip, rechargeable lithium-ion battery (built-in), USB charging cable, carrying case
With its high price, most gamers won’t fancy the Bose QuietComfort 20. However, if you want earbuds with arguably the best noise canceling capabilities regardless of cost, then the Bose QC20 is for you. Its active noise-canceling technology means that all background noises are omitted.
You can toggle the ‘Aware Mode’, which tones down noise cancellation, and allow you to chat with those around you. The sounds produced are also crystal clear. The same can be said of the microphone attached. The mic is top-notch and picks up voices with ease ensuring your teammates and opponents hear you loud and clear.
In terms of comfort, we doubt any earpiece surpasses the Bose QC20. The ear tips are ergonomically designed to offer the most nuisance-free gaming. With this earpiece, you can game for several hours without any discomfort.
Connector – 3.5mm analog plug
Frequency Response – 10 Hz – 20,000 kHz
Microphone attached- Yes
Wireless option – No
Extra features – Noise-cancelling, Aware Mode (this reduces noise cancellation)
Pros
Produces very clear sounds.
Beautifully designed.
Its noise-canceling technology is one of the most impressive on the market.
It comes with a portable case.
Made in the U.S.A.
Cons
Very expensive.
Rechargeable battery that powers the noise-canceling feature is not replaceable.
Three drivers- These headphones have two balanced armatures and a separate dynamic driver. Together they deliver an extremely accurate listening experience with unsurpassed dynamic power and clarity from deep bass to sizzling highs.
Tuned By A Grammy Award Winning Sound Engineer- 1MORE collaborated with internationally acclaimed producer, mixer, and sound Engineer Luca Bernard to perfect the final Tuning to deliver a precise representation of your favorite artist's intended sound.
Comfortable ergonomic design- the OBLIQUE angled ear fittings naturally match your ear canals. 9 sets of included ear tip sizes ensure a proper fit for all. They're more comfortable and less likely to fall out, freeing you to enjoy your music.
Intelligent control technology- in-line remote control is conveniently located allowing you to effortlessly control volume, select songs, and take calls. Superior mems Microphone has independently set ground wires to eliminate cross-talk and background static.
Although they may be costly, this 1MORE Triple Driver Earphones is one of the most remarkable earbuds available. They have all the features you can ask for in a pair of earbuds.
The ergonomically designed ear tips ensure that you can game and listen to music for hours. In fact, it comes with 9 differently sized sets of ear tips. The MEMS microphone eliminates both background static and crosstalk effortlessly. Additionally, the aluminum alloy body and Kevlar fiber that protected the enameled copper wires means that this earpiece is very durable.
Connector – 3.5mm plug
Frequency Response – 20-40,000 Hz
Microphone attached- Yes
Wireless option – No
Extra features – Tangle-free cable with Kevlar fiber, THX certified
Pros
The clarity of sounds produced is excellent.
The 1MORE triple driver earphones have Kevlar fiber outer covering on the cable and an aluminum body. This makes it very durable.
The earphone has a sensitive microphone.
Cons
It does not include a PC adapter. (You must acquire that separately.)
No microphone mute button available on the earphone.
Wired In Ear Headphones: Earbuds perfect for exercising; With 6 sets of earpads and memory foam ear tips, Headphones stay in your ears while keeping surrounding noise out
Microphone and Call controller: with an integrated microphone and call remote, these headphones are compatible with iPhone, iPad, iPod, Android, tablets , requires plug adaptor for iPhone 7 and later models (not included)
Tonally balanced audio with crisp highs and deep bass low notes, plus wider frequency response and lively sound quality for recorded audio
Extended Headphone wire: Long, 3. 9 feet Headphone cord threads comfortably through clothing and bags making it easy to connect, 3.5 mm gold plated jack
10mm dynamic neodymium magnet drivers, these powerful earbuds ensure you will hear every detail in your favorite tunes, from the crisp strings of classical music, to the powerful bass beats of pop and hip hop.
If you want a moderately priced earbuds that work, then this headset is one to check out. Aesthetically, most gamers will appreciate it. Its shiny metallic build and transparent outer cable cover make this earphone stand out.
In terms of sounds produced, the Betron YSM1000 headset is quite good, if not impressive for its price. Although it doesn’t have noise canceling, it does have a noise-isolating feature that helps keep noise out. The ear tips are also comfortable.
Some gamers may find this earpiece bass heavy.
Connector – 3.5mm straight plug
Frequency Response – 1.8 Hz – 20,000 Hz
Microphone attached- Yes
Wireless option – No
Extra features – Noise isolation
Pros
It gives good value for money.
The Betron YSM1000 earbuds are well made.
The earpiece is stylishly designed.
The earbuds are comfortable.
Cons
Sounds produced are bass heavy. (This may be a pro for some gamers.)
It’s quite heavy.
SoundPEATS Magnetic Wireless Earbuds
This headset uses Bluetooth 4.1 to connect to your console, PC, and mobile gaming device. The advantage of this is the lack of cords that gets in the way. The sound produced is clear and without delay. As you may already know, latency is the reason, why most gamers prefer wired earpieces to wireless ones. lack of latency results in a truly excellent gaming experience.
As with all wireless headsets, they must be charged. The SoundPEATS Magnetic wireless headset is no different. You charge this headset with the USB charging cable that comes with it. With a two-hour charge, you can get up to 8 hours of use.
Connectivity – Bluetooth 4.1
Frequency Response – 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz
Microphone attached- Yes
Wireless option – Yes
Drivers – 10 mm neodymium
Extra features – Noise canceling
Pros
Comes with 5 differently sized pair of ear tips. This allows for a perfect fit regardless of the gamer.
Smooth audio. Audio latency is a problem that impinges on the gaming experience. The SoundPEATS Magnetic Wireless Earbuds doesn’t have this problem.
The noise-canceling capability of this headset is always a welcomed feature.
Cons
The battery doesn’t last long after a charge.
Best Gaming Earbuds – Wrap Up
Earbuds have the advantage of being more comfortable than on-ear headsets. This is because, while in-ear headsets are very light, on-ear headsets are usually quite heavy. Comfortable in-ear headsets can be worn for several hours with little to no discomfort.
This allows you to play mobile game consoles such as the Nintendo Switch on the go as well as catch up on your favorite online games on your laptop during breaks. The best gaming earbuds are durable, comfortable to wear and have a great sound profile.
Prefer a headset instead of earbuds? Check out our post on best gaming headsets next!
Last update on 2021-09-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
