Best Non-Gaming Headphones For Gaming

Sound is the essence of gaming. If you fancy enjoying the immersive experience gaming offers, you need to invest in the best gaming headphone. Not everyone is gaming-minded, and it could be a non-gaming headphone that perfectly meets all of their gaming needs.


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Best Non Gaming Headphones For Gaming
Our Pick

We believe that the Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile Headphones are the best value for money. These aren't the most expensive headphones on the market, but they are a complete package in audio quality and comfort.

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However, there can be some hurdles when it comes to choosing the best non-gaming headphones. But that is what we’re here for. A non-gaming headphone may lack the gaming aesthetic one could want. Still, there are certainly some fabulous headphones out there in the gaming market.

The key to finding the best non-gaming headphone is to research the features you want and then sort your options, but don’t worry, we got you.

Best Non Gaming Headphones For Gaming – Comparison Table

Preview
Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone
Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 - Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone, Black
Our Pick
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones Black
Samson Semi Open-Back Studio Reference Headphones, Black, Over Ear (.) Wired
beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro 250 ohm Over-Ear Studio Headphones For Mixing, Mastering, and Editing
Driver
40mm
42mm dynamic
53mm
50mm
45mm
Frequency Response
10Hz-20kHz
12Hz-40.5kHz
20Hz-20kHz
10Hz-30kHz
5Hz-35kHz
Impedance (ohms)
63
300
45
32
250
Compatibility
XBOX, XBOX, Playstation, PC, Mobile Devices
XBOX, Playstation, PC, Mobile Devices
XBOX, Playstation, PC
XBOX, Playstation, PC
XBOX, Playstation, PC
Sensitivity
106dB at 1kHz
97dB at 1kHz
100dB at 1kHz
98dB at 1kHz
96dB at 1kHz
Connectivity
Wired ¼ and 3.5mm jack
Wired ¼ and 3.5mm jack
Wired ¼ and 3.5mm jack
Wired ¼ and 3.5mm jack
Analog 3.5mm
Prime
Preview
Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone
Driver
40mm
Frequency Response
10Hz-20kHz
Impedance (ohms)
63
Compatibility
XBOX, XBOX, Playstation, PC, Mobile Devices
Sensitivity
106dB at 1kHz
Connectivity
Wired ¼ and 3.5mm jack
Prime
Details
Preview
Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 - Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone, Black
Driver
42mm dynamic
Frequency Response
12Hz-40.5kHz
Impedance (ohms)
300
Compatibility
XBOX, Playstation, PC, Mobile Devices
Sensitivity
97dB at 1kHz
Connectivity
Wired ¼ and 3.5mm jack
Prime
Details
Our Pick
Preview
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones Black
Driver
53mm
Frequency Response
20Hz-20kHz
Impedance (ohms)
45
Compatibility
XBOX, Playstation, PC
Sensitivity
100dB at 1kHz
Connectivity
Wired ¼ and 3.5mm jack
Prime
Details
Preview
Samson Semi Open-Back Studio Reference Headphones, Black, Over Ear (.) Wired
Driver
50mm
Frequency Response
10Hz-30kHz
Impedance (ohms)
32
Compatibility
XBOX, Playstation, PC
Sensitivity
98dB at 1kHz
Connectivity
Wired ¼ and 3.5mm jack
Prime
Details
Preview
beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro 250 ohm Over-Ear Studio Headphones For Mixing, Mastering, and Editing
Driver
45mm
Frequency Response
5Hz-35kHz
Impedance (ohms)
250
Compatibility
XBOX, Playstation, PC
Sensitivity
96dB at 1kHz
Connectivity
Analog 3.5mm
Prime
Details

Difference between Headsets and Headphones

Difference Between Headsets and Headphones

The primary difference between headsets and headphones is the presence of an integrated microphone. Basically, a headset is a pair of headphones with a microphone attached. The two devices have pretty similar properties, as the terms are often used synonymously. However, each device has its advantages and disadvantages. Read on to learn the factors to consider when making your purchase decision.

A) Convenience

Headsets are suitable for games that demand interaction with many players.

  • A 2-in-1 gaming device offers excellent convenience and ensures that you can concentrate on gaming.
  • They’re also easier to carry around than separate headphones and microphones. If you are competing in a different region, headsets should help.
  • However, if you are the casual multiplayer, you might want to buy headphones instead of headsets, as is the case with most single players.

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B) Flexibility

People assume that gaming devices are only for gaming. Contrary to this opinion, headphones are perfect for streaming, and headsets are also great for communicating in the workplace.

  • These devices are ergonomically designed so that users can enjoy more comfort even after hours of daily use.
  • The purchase decision depends on your lifestyle. For example, do you usually stream movies for long periods? Do you need an integrated mic for your online meetings? Or do you already own a working mic you can pair with other devices? Thinking about these questions will help you narrow down your options.

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C) Sound Quality

Gaming headphones get better scores for audio quality than gaming headsets.

  • Gaming headphones boast a surround sound of up to 7.1, meaning the device has multiple audio channels from right to left and bottom to top.
  • These audio channels improve the depth and fidelity of the sound output experienced by the gamer.
  • On the flip side, headsets sometimes have excessive bass, leading to louder virtual explosions and drowning out other less important noises like gun clicks or footsteps in videos.
  • Almost all sounds in games are critical. If this is your first time using headsets, you need to be aware of these audio trends.

D) Noise Isolation

Gaming headphones have better noise isolating properties than gaming headsets.

  • Although the headsets have similar sound characteristics, their sound quality seems to be affected by the sound input from the integrated microphone.
  • If you have tried to travel by helicopter, you can confirm the difference in quality from the frequent interruption of the input noise.
  • Other gamers’ voices or your voice can drown out the sound.

Are Non-Gaming Headphones Better for Gaming?

Are Non Gaming Headphones Better for Gaming?

The best gaming headphones don’t have to be called “gaming headphones“. In fact, you can opt for a non-gaming headphone for a significantly lower price without compromising too much on sound quality. Additionally, many non-gaming headphones deliver superior comfort and sound as they are designed for music producers and other audio professionals.

Is an Open or Closed Back Headphone Better for Gaming?

There are several pros and cons associated with each of these two types of headphones.

  • The right choice depends on how often and where you will use your headphone. For example, open-back headphones are best for longer gaming sessions. However, they are only suitable for quiet places because although they allow the audio to escape, they also allow certain noises to reach the ear.
  • Even so, it is safe to say that closed-back headphones are best in noisy places. Admittedly, they do not offer the neutral sound of their counterparts. Still, they do allow you to be more focused on the circumstances.
  • In the meantime, if you tend to be alone in your bedroom and want to be sure that your parents are calling you, then, by all means, go for an open-back headphone.

What to Look for?

A) Build Quality

Head Phone Build Quality

With these peripheral devices, durability is also a significant concern, as you don’t go to the market every Sunday to purchase them. So, if you’re looking for the best non-gaming headphones for gaming, choose one with a sturdy casing that won’t let you down for at least a few years. An aluminum frame or carbon fiber body is always remarkable for non-gaming headphones.

B) Sound Quality

Head Phone Sound Quality

Sound quality is arguably the biggest concern for an avid gamer, and you can’t compromise on audio quality.

  • Cheaply made gaming headphones can falsify bass frequencies and include distortion.
  • For this reason, you should only choose the best non-gaming headphones so that your audio experience is realistic and natural.
  • Some non-gaming headphones may not deliver high-quality frequency modulation, particularly the mid-frequencies, which can be tricky.

C) Comfort

Headphone Comfort

Comfort is possibly the most essential feature to look for in a non-gaming headphone for gaming, as this can be an issue with most headphones.

  • If you’re an avid gamer, you’re gaming for more than 6 hours. If your headphones have a clickity headband and stiff padding, you’re in for an excruciating experience.
  • For this reason, you should opt for non-gaming headphones that will guarantee you a relaxing and immersive gaming experience.

D) Microphone

Headphone Microphone

The microphone might not be the biggest issue for anyone who listens to Spotify very often. Still, for an avid gamer, it’s definitely something to consider.

  • The microphone is your source of communication with your team members, and you want your sound to be precise.
  • So, if you plan to play FPS games, you have to be careful with non-gaming headphones, which mainly include a microphone, and it would be a real bonus if it had passive noise isolation.
  • However, if you like arcade games, the microphone shouldn’t be your problem, and you should be looking for the best headphones for gaming without a microphone.

Best Non-Gaming Headphones for Gaming

Here are the top 5 best non-gaming headphones for gaming on the market today:

1. Sony MDR7506 Professional Stereo Headphones Review

The Sony MDR7506 Professional Stereo Headphones have been the first choice of professionals worldwide for more than three decades. Still, the MDR 7506 is relatively cheaper.

Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone

  • The MDR7506 packs in 40mm drivers are really amazing to use. Bass frequencies can be under-amplified or slightly distorted, especially low frequencies. But the highs and mids are perfectly balanced.
  • For this reason, it is one of the best non-gaming headphones for gaming. The construction is entirely plastic, but these are durable materials. The MDR7506 has slightly less padding on the earbuds, but you can upgrade to better padding.
  • The headband is adjustable for almost any head size. All the frames are decorated with faux fur, which is a bit controversial. The fantastic thing about MDR is its price point; it’s a literal blessing.
  • The MDR7506 sounds better at higher frequencies than even pricier headphones, which is phenomenal. This non-gaming headphone is best suited for solo player action games.
  • The lack of a microphone means that competitive gaming is off the scale. However, the cable is quite long and detachable, which increases portability. In addition, the MDR7506 is supplied with a 3.5mm or ¼-inch adapter.
  • The Sony MDR7506 Professional Stereo Headphones is a closed-back non-gaming headphone that offers incredible noise cancellation for its price. In addition, the bass is relatively constant, giving the MDR a more natural note.
  • The MDR folds up quickly, making it one of the most portable non-gaming headphones for gaming on the market. The MDR is unbeatable at this price point, but it lacks a high-end feel in the design and sound departments.
  • It isn’t ideal for long gaming sessions and can be a problem with games like Rainbow Siege.
Pros
  • Reasonably priced
  • Detachable cable
  • Consistent bass
  • Replaceable parts
  • Adjustable headband
Cons
  • Low frequencies not properly amplified.
  • Obsolete design
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2. Sennheiser HD 600 Open Back Professional Headphone Review

The Sennheiser HD 600 Open Back Professional Headphone has been around for over 20 years. They silently revised the model last year.

Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 - Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone, Black

  • The HD 600 sports the typical plastic housing, which feels sluggish but offers a high-quality feel.
  • The Sennheiser HD 600 has considerable head padding, making it one of the most comfortable non-gaming headphones for gaming.
  • Like the Sony MDR7506, this unit also has an adjustable headband. In addition, the Sennheiser has dynamic 46mm audio drivers that sound really fantastic.
  • The Sennheiser HD 600’s mid, high, and low frequencies may not be the best either.
  • However, the mid-range frequencies sound great, making it one of the best non-gaming headphones, particularly for strategy games.
  • The Sennheiser HD 600 is an open-back headphone, but its noise isolation is better than that of the Sony MDR7506.
  • The Sennheiser is very sturdy, and another interesting fact about its case is that each part is replaceable. The ear cushions are made of soft velour, which is very comfortable but should be changed every 2 to 3 years.
  • The Sennheiser is a lightweight, easy-to-use headset with a cable on either side, but luckily the cable is detachable. The Sennheiser HD 600 Open Back Professional Headphone is undoubtedly one of the most natural headphones on the market. There’s no reason not to buy it (you shouldn’t be an FPS gamer, though).
  • Its natural sound is precisely what many gamers are looking for.
Pros
  • Durable and lightweight
  • Interchangeable parts
  • Detachable cable
  • Natural sounding
  • Adjustable headband
Cons
  • No noise isolation
  • The bass range can be wider.
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3. Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile Headphones Review

Ideal for long gaming sessions, the Audio-Technica ATH-AD7000X Audiophile Headphones are lightweight and designed for comfort.

Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones Black

  • Thanks to the 3D wing support system, the headphone will sit firmly and comfortably on your head while completely covering your ears.
  • The wings adjust automatically to your head, so you can concentrate on what is really important to you – enjoying the impressive sound.
  • The sound from these headphones is natural and clear. These non-gaming headphones keep high tones crisp but don’t skimp on low frequencies. As a result, even mid-tones can be heard clearly.
  • Directional audio is great and allows you to be fully immersed in your visual and audio experience.
  • Just like the Sony MDR7506, the ATH-AD700X also comes with a ¼-inch adapter. This gives users a lot more hardware options when considering their audio source.
  • The cable is not detachable, unlike the ATH-AD700X and the Sennheiser HD 600; therefore, it can’t be replaced if damaged.
  • It’s well constructed and designed to last. The hearing performance combined with the comfortable design allows you to wear it all day with no problem, making it a brilliant choice for everyone looking to complement convenience with exceptional sound quality.
Pros
  • Clear mid-tone sound
  • Wing support for a comfortable fit.
  • Comes with a ¼-inch adapter.
Cons
  • The cable is not removable.
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4. Samson Technologies SR850 Semi Open-Back Headphones Review

These SR850 Semi Open-Back Headphones from Samson Technologies are a splendid choice for the highly budget-conscious consumer. However, the lower price does not mean a low-end audio experience.

Samson Semi Open-Back Studio Reference Headphones, Black, Over Ear (.) Wired

  • Thanks to its proprietary 50mm drivers, these non-gaming headphones can channel almost any sound you can imagine.
  • The highs are crisp but still airy and light. The mid-tone frequencies stand out clearly but capture the subtle sound changes.
  • The bass is full of depth and punchy. This dynamic range means that these headphones will respond well to varied sounds, from the spinning motor of your Mario Kart vehicle to the battle sounds of the latest Call of Duty game.
  • The fit is quite comfortable, and the headphones sit firmly with no fuss. The self-adjusting headband ensures everything fits snugly on your head, while the velour ear cushions gently cushion your ears.
  • The semi-open design can result in sound leakage, which is a drawback. If you’re concerned about ambient noise getting into your headphones or someone else hearing what you’re listening to, this might not be your best option.
  • However, the semi-open design also allows for a dynamic sound experience and gives the headphones their sonic range.
  • The Samson Technologies SR850 Semi Open-Back Headphones provide an excellent dynamic audio experience. They will not crush your ears if worn for too long.
Pros
  • Self-adjusting headband
  • Dynamic frequency range
  • Velour ear pads
  • Affordable
Cons
  • A semi-open design may cause sound leakage.
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5. Beyerdynamic 459038 DT 990 PRO Headphone Review

These Beyerdynamic 459038 DT 990 PRO Headphones are an excellent choice for anyone who wants to hear all available audio frequencies.

beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro 250 ohm Over-Ear Studio Headphones For Mixing, Mastering, and Editing

  • The non-gaming headphones bring out the treble and bass of your audio clearly and with no distortion. However, the mid frequencies can be lost and therefore not offer the most natural sound.
  • Either way, the boosted treble and bass create a V-shaped audio profile that is sure to offer an immersive experience.
  • Although the cord is hard-wired and cannot be easily replaced if damaged, the headphones are generally well made.
  • The main body is made of plastic but doesn’t make it less durable. The polymer blend is tough enough to prevent these headphones from breaking randomly. Without throwing them down the stairs, they will last a very long time.
  • Meanwhile, the pads are crafted from soft velour. They gently surround your ears and offer a snug and comfortable fit. In addition, the cushion creates an airtight seal to keep the audio experience immersive.
  • The soft material can also stay in the ears for hours without causing pain. In addition, these headphones offer a great deal of sound in a well-designed form factor.
  • If you are looking for a rugged non-gaming headphone that will boost the treble and bass, the Beyerdynamic 459038 DT 990 PRO Headphone is the one for you.
Pros
  • Sturdy construction
  • Strong lows and highs.
  • Soft and replaceable ear cushions.
Cons
  • Hard-wired cable
  • Higher price than other models.
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Top-Rated Non Gaming Headphones For Gaming
Our Pick

Our top pick for the best non-gaming headphones for gaming is the Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile Headphones.

  • It is designed to provide a comfortable listening experience.
  • With its lightweight aluminum honeycomb housing, this audiophile headphone won't create any pressure on your ears, allowing you to wear it all day with no problem.
  • The ATH-AD700X is a superb choice for everyone looking to complement convenience with exceptional sound quality.

All the listed non-gaming headphones for gaming offer high-quality sound without breaking your budget. They all offer a comfortable fit and high-quality sound at all frequencies, so you can immerse yourself in the game whenever you want.

Key References
  • “Why good sound is important for gaming | AOC Monitors”. Accessed July 28, 2021. Link.
  • “Gaming Microphones: What To Look For When Buying One – Appuals.com”. Accessed July 28, 2021. Link.

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