When you’re searching for headphones for gaming, you have two options, with or without a microphone. Unfortunately, even though most gaming headphones will include a microphone, it doesn’t define them completely.
What kind of headphones you choose is a personal choice, but they should always drive gaming sounds with a flat or balanced audio output, similar to what you would find using studio monitors or headphones designed with a flat tuning.
The style of headphones is entirely your choice, with some gamers swearing by over-ear headphones and others preferring earbuds. Excellent sound quality can be found in any type of headphone; the choice is down to your own personal desires. In this guide, we will discuss some of the best sounding gaming headphones available without a mic.
Some players prefer bass-heavy tones in their ears, allowing them to hear low-end sounds and explosions more prominently, which is all well and good. Still, if you want an unmistakable sound that is balanced, you want a set of headphones that can represent a range of frequencies in a significant way.
With the headphones that we tested, we wanted to figure out if surround sound was available or if the soundstage of the headphones was good. This was to determine whether the headphones could pick up subtle details used in gaming audio to create a more immersive experience.
These areas include positional audio and gaming audio-scape, particularly in FPS games. The better detail separation in the audio would make an overall better sound, with voices and effects becoming much clearer.
The final consideration is comfort. No matter if you choose an open-back or closed-back design, you can find comforts. An open-back design will allow your ears to breathe easier, but you are given more noise isolation with closed-back versions.
Philips Fidelio X2HR
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Philips Fidelio X2HR Key Features:
- Balanced and crisp sounds
- Broad and accurate audio stage
- Comfortable open-backed design
Philips has been known for their supreme audio quality for many years, and the Fidelio X2HR is no different. Hi-Res certified these gaming headphones have what it takes to handle very high-quality audio formats. Gaming audio is not usually up to the standard that audiophiles know and love, but if a pair of gaming headphones can reflect the kind of soundstage the game creates, they are off to a great start, and that is where the Fidelio X2HR excels.
The Fidelio X2HR have an open-back design, meaning they bring a natural sound quality to your gameplay. With the design, you will notice your ears picking up different aspects of audio that are missed with other headphone designs. Directional audio is precise, with a clear separation between audio distances such as footsteps, running water in the background, the crash of rocks, and anything else you may hear.
Bass quality is an area that pleasantly surprised us, being both tight and powerful, corresponding with the crisp and clear trebles. Again, a beautiful balance comes with the X2HR delivering a lively and warm sound perfect for games of all kinds.
A good soundcard or amp can be used to enhance the audio even more. Still, we feel even without this added extra, you will receive exceptional quality sounds, especially with an impedance level of only 30 ohms, meaning you can crank the volume up high without any distortion of sound.
Aside from the stunning sound quality, the X2HR feel and look brilliant. Memory foam earcups are included giving a cushioning made even better with the velour finish. The only downside would be the overall weight of these headphones, with some users finding them a little heavy after long durations of wear. However, if the weight is something you don’t mind, the open-back design will keep your ears from feeling stressed or strained, with much more room to breathe.
The durable design will withstand a few knocks and bumps, prolonging its lifespan. A 6.35mm adapter is included with purchase and connects via the 3.5mm jack plug. Although these headphones are wired, they come with an extra-long cable to give you more freedom and a cable clip to keep wire management as stress-free as possible.
Pros
- Excellent audio quality with a fantastic sound stage
Cons
- Nothing particularly noteworthy
Sennheiser HD280PRO
Sennheiser HD280PRO Key Features:
- It has a neutral soundstage
- Transparent, balanced audio
- Stylish and comfortable
Тhе НD280РRО from Sennheiser is a closed-back model with rotating earcups and a collapsible design for more compact storage for better portability. They connect via a wired connection with a 3.5mm jack plug and a 6.5mm adapter for larger headphone jack inputs.
Headphones were designed for maximum comfort, equipped with leatherette earpads moulded to maximize comfort and functions to maximize functionality. The thick coiled cable is durable but adds some weight to one side, creating an unbalanced sensation after extended wear.
In contrast, thе earing, headband, and audio cable are all interchangeable, allowing you to extend the life of the headphone. The cord is replaceable, but this does not mean it is detachable. If you are making a replacement, you will need to complete some soldering at certain moments.
The HD280PRO has explicitly been designed for studio monitoring creating a transparent, neutral sound perfect for movies and, more importantly, gaming! The neutral sound makes these headphones the ideal accompaniment for gamers with the exceedingly natural audio scape. Additionally, the sounds surround you rather than directly from the drivers giving a different audio experience than you would receive from a closed-back model.
For bass lovers, another model is probably a more fitting choice. Not that bass isn’t heard in these headphones, but it is very subtle, but nothing that can’t be fixed with a good EQ.
Overall, the HD280PRO are a quality pair of headphones handling a wide variety of applications. Although the bass is a little soft, the sound separations give you an experience like no other. From gaming to studio monitoring, this is a versatile piece of equipment.
Pros
- Closed-back speakers with an extended soundstage
Cons
- Weight is added by the thick coiled cable
Edifier H840
Edifier H840 Key Features:
- A balanced, warm sound
- Easily portable
- Budget-friendly
The Edifier H840 is an entry-level set of headphones designed for studio monitoring, making the perfect accompaniment for gamers. 40mm drivers produce a balanced, transparent sound quality across most frequencies and give a warm stereo sound, with a bit of bias towards bass audio. Although they are a bit bass-heavy, it is so subtle that the balanced soundstage is still created.
The neutral audio output makes the Edifier’s ideal for gaming. Just like watching movies, games have dialect and a range of sound sources, from ambient background noises to theme music and more. This is why the H840 work so well in a gaming situation. Surround sound is not supported, but the stereo sound is excellent! Positional audio is lacking a little, so you may find that the location of other players is difficult to navigate, but for RPG players, these headphones will work well.
Passive noise isolation works as it should, and although some external noise may still leak in, there is no way it will become distracting, allowing you to continue with your immersive gameplay.
Comfortable for hours of prolonged gameplay, the Edifier H840 have a lightweight form, a flexible leather headband, and soft leather earcups. The connection is via a standard 3.5mm jack plug, but the cable is a little thin, prone to damage easier than other products.
With several colour options, there is a style for everyone, and with the simple good looks, these headphones are not imposing in any way, making them suitable for all people of all styles. If you’re looking for a budget option, the Edifier H840 are a great choice!
Pros
- A great sound at an affordable price
Cons
- Fragile cables with thin walls
Audio-Technica ATH-AD500x
Audio-Technica ATH-AD500x Key Features:
- Extra-large 53mm drivers
- Awesome positional audio
- Lightweight form factor
Much like most typical headsets without a Mic, the ATH-AD500x isn’t actually marketed as a gaming headset. Ѕо it is no wonder that these headphones are not considered by many when on the lookout for a new listening aid for their gaming experience.
There are many devices in the ATH series by Audio-Technica, with the AD500x being one of the smaller models having a much smaller frequency response range. The ATH-AD500x can hit between 5Hz-25kHz, while the more premium models can reach up to 40kHz
This being said, the AD500x by no means lack when it comes to audio quality. The neutral tones and wide soundstage create an expansive dynamic, and although bass heads may not be impressed, the balanced audio and clear trebles are perfect for the majority of users.
Directional detailed audio is a strong selling point of these headphones, especially great for players of RPGs, adventures, and FPS lovers. The sound, In addition, feels as if it comes from beyond the headphones thanks to the wide soundstage, helping to create more realism in the audio.
The open design makes these headphones extremely lightweight, while the aluminium grill gives your head and ears room to breathe. These design features help for prolonged uses, but there are tiny wings that some users have claimed are somewhat uncomfortable, but not every buyer, so this is down to personal preference.
The combination of large 53mm drivers, airy soundstage, and budget-friendly price tag promotes the purchase of the ATH-AD500X very well. In addition, the design makes for an immersive experience every time, heightening concentration when you need it the most.
Pros
- A good separation of audio and position is achieved with excellent accuracy.
Cons
- The headset’s wing design may not be suitable for everyone.
Sennheiser RS 175 RF Wireless Headphone
Sennheiser RS 175 RF Key Features:
- RF wireless
- Excellent neutral sound quality
- Controls on earcup
If you’re looking for the convenience and freedom of wireless headphones, it is crucial to look for RF wireless headphones. This will mean that your device will come with a transmitter that ensures your connection is strong and completely lag-free. The transmitter will then correctly sync up audio and video, ensuring that your gameplay is delivered as it was always intended.
You may find that many wireless headphones connect via a USB dongle, but with the Sennheiser RS 175, that is not the case. Instead, these headphones come equipped with a dedicated transmitter that also doubles as a convenient charging stand.
The transmitter will connect to your game console or PC via the 3.5mm jack plug or an optical digital cable. Everything is made simple with switching between the two, simply press a button to choose one and then press the same button again to go back.
The majority of the controls, such as volume, power, surround, and bass mode, are located on the headphone, making them very easy to manage.
Sоund quаlіtу іѕ amazing. With a balanced and neutral output, the RS 175 RF provides a detailed sound that considers whatever direction you want your audio to go. You’ll receive an authentic surround sound experience every time you are gaming. We won’t have any lag because of the RF transmission. The closed-back design also does loads in terms of noise isolation.
The R 175 is relatively lightweight and comfortable to wear for an extended period. However, many users have commented that they feel a bit tired, but that will depend on the person, and each person will feel differently.
Pros
- An excellent wireless system that is convenient and easy to use
Cons
- The price is a bit steep.
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Key Features
- It has a clear, neutral tone
- Cables are removable
- Earcups with padding for comfort
The ATH-M are a closed-back counterpart to the ATH-AD series, and the ATH-M40x is the middle product of the range. It offers a significant impedance of 35 Ohm, but the frequency response lacks only a capacity between 15Hz and 24Hz.
The original purpose for the ATH-M40x is for studio monitor work. The output has been tuned to be as flat as possible, giving a more accurate representation of the sound delivered. This balanced audio makes them the perfect companion for gaming and movie watching.
A lot of sounds are used in games, such as voice, effects, and music. I found the 40mm driver on the coupler to be very effective, providing a clean, digital sound with a smooth level of control and a fast speed response time. Acoustic instruments sound particularly clear using these headphones, and sub-bass is present, although very subtle. If you can combine it with an EQ, the sounds you will receive will be hard beaten by any other product on the market.
There will be no problems powering these headphones from your PC or console, with only 35-ohms and two detachable cables, the connection is made as simple as possible.
The design has been developed to cover your entire ear for a more isolated sound. As a result, the earpads may feel a little tight, but with the original purpose of these headphones to be for studio monitor work, sound leakage needs to be minimum, so the close feel is expected.
There is only one distinct flaw in the material. While the ATH-M40x can fold and swivel into a more compact size, the pivot joints are fragile and prone to damage after long term use.
Overall, Audio-Technica makes some stunning, flat tuned headphones perfect for gamers to enjoy. However, if you’re on the hunt for an isolated clean sound, then the ATH-M40x should be on your considerations list.
Pros
- Professional studio monitors feature balanced with audio output.
Cons
- Fragile pivot points that can be fatigued
Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO
Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO Key Features
- The sound is clean and neutral
- A detachable cable
- Earcups with padding for comfort
With the Beyerdynamic, gaming is made easy, especially with the extra-long, non-coiled cable that prevents any snagging or pulling while also never becoming tangled. The auricle is attached to the left side of the headphones but doesn’t feel unbalanced when wearing it. In addition, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO comes with a 6.3mm adapter connected to the standard jack input if your gaming device requires a larger input.
There are no distortions in the bass sound, and it is pretty punchy. This is standard for many gaming headphones to deliver a more rounded sound. In addition, there is a reflex bass system within the headphones that improves the audio quality even further. Compared to other models, the bass tones are noticeably higher in the mix and volume.
By reducing the outside noise by around 18 dB, you can listen without interference. If you’re looking for an immersive gaming experience, the DT 770 may not be the ideal headset. Nevertheless, that doesn’t affect everyone, with games usually played in quieter environments. If you want further protection against ambient noise surrounding you, another version of the DT 770 known as the Beyerdynamic DT 770 M.
Pros
- Comfortable and well-padded
- Strong and durable
Cons
- Leaks audio at higher volumes
Sennheiser HD 600
Sennheiser HD 600 Key Features:
- The sound is clean and neutral
- Easily detachable cables
- Padded earcups for maximum comfort
There is a no bigger name than Sennheiser when it comes to audio devices, and their repeat release of better and better headphones is why they have this fantastic reputation. If you’re looking for an entry-level set to get yourself into the world of Sennheiser devices, then the HD 600 model is the perfect beginning. Get the wonders of Sennheiser sound quality at a great price!
The HD 600 comes with massive 40mm drivers with an enormous impedance of 300 Ohms. This huge impedance combined with the 12-39,000 Hz frequency response gives you a pair of gaming headphones that could be the very best on the market.
Pros
- While playing games, players are treated to a great surround sound experience.
- It is a good thing that the headphones can be adjusted by using a gridded mechanism.
- Perfect for a variety of professional purposes as well.
Cons
- Wearing it in a noisy environment isn’t recommended.
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Key Features:
- The sound is clean and neutral
- Easily detachable cables
- Earcups with padding for comfort
The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700x gaming headphones are stylish; even the unit behind is visible. Almost all the remaining design components are made from plastic.
In any case, they are light, and the main focus is this specification. All gaps and further processing are okay, and the cable has both ends protected from kinks. Gold-plated contacts are used. This means that corrosion is not a problem.
Customers receive standard accessories which, in fairness, are no longer needed. An adapter that converts an eighth-inch jack to a quarter-inch jack will allow you to connect to various devices without any issues. Unfortunately, there is no way to remove the cable attached to the left side of the headphones.
An angle lies between the large drivers and the auricle. Therefore, they cannot be heard directly in the ear canal. Magnesium alloy, which surrounds the housing, makes it lightweight. The fabric on the ear pads makes them extremely comfortable. You can change it if you want, but no option for a leather version nor another alternative is available.
Pros
- Various types of ears can be accommodated by the earpads;
- The air in it is sufficient to deliver good sound;
- While wearing headphones, the wire is long enough, so you won’t have to worry about it.
Cons
- Towards the upper end of the bass range, you may notice some distortion.
HyperX Cloud MIX
HyperX Cloud MIX Key Features:
- A sound that is neutral and clean
- Easily detachable cables
- Earcups are padded for comfort
The HyperX Cloud MIX are a subtle and stylish set of gaming headphones perfect for those who want to stay under the radar but still want the very best when it comes to features. Yes, this is a list of the best headphones for gaming with no mic. These headphones do include a microphone, but it is completely detachable, allowing you to use an external microphone if needed, giving you much more in terms of sound quality.
The HyperX Cloud Mix use Bluetooth technology, offering the freedom of a completely wireless experience. In addition, audio quality is enhanced with the use of double 1.5-inch drivers. As explained by the HyperX, the need for dual drivers separates the highs and mids from the bass, giving a much more precise sound.
The sound quality is improved when used in wired mode, covering a frequency response of 10-40,000hz that is significantly higher than connected via Bluetooth.
Pros
- Wired as well as Bluetooth mode is available;
- Around 18-20 hours of battery life;
- The sound quality in games is excellent.
Cons
- Bluetooth mode reduces the sound quality a little.
When it comes to choosing the best gaming headphones without a microphone in 2021, you have lots of choices. With so many studio headphones creating the perfect platform for experiencing game audio exactly how it was intended to be represented, they are becoming a more and more popular choice for gamers. However, just because some headphones don’t have the ‘gamer’ title doesn’t mean they will not be the best choice.