Ever wanted to listen to your favorite band’s CD, or your favorite song online, only to realize it doesn’t sound as good as you thought? Ever been in public listening to music, only for it to be drowned out by a man angrily yelling on his phone beside you? You may think that this is normal, but with the modern day technology, headphones that can cover a wide array of needs can be found.
Depending on where you shop, though, you may run into subpar quality headphones, ones that do not offer as much as their proper counterparts. Not only that, depending on what you are looking for, different headsets may be more appropriate for your needs.
For instance, if you plan to be using the headphones for gaming, a headphone pair made especially for traveling business members would not be appropriate.
As such, here are our picks for the best headphones for gaming and music.
Best Overall
- Aesthetically Pleasing
- Flexible, Dynamic
- Well-Priced
Premium Pick
- Exception Sound Quality
- Deep Coverings
- Rich Color Contrast
Best Headphones For Gaming And Music
When it comes to music, there are some that are a cut above the rest. However, when it comes to music and gaming, there are many other things to keep in mind.
As such, we have provided you a list of headphones that specialize in being a great medium between the two genres. Here are some of our top picks for the best headphones if you plan to listen to music, as well as game.
1. Sol Republic Master Tracks X3
The Sol Republic Master Tracks X3 is great for those that wish to have a solid gaming experience. Holding reliable sound overall, it boasts a well-threaded range of frequency pickups, ensuring you can hear both the snare kicking, as well as the running footsteps of an enemy.
However, the downside is they are quite flimsy. Although it is to be expected at the price it is set at, many users have experienced breaking of the internal and external fixators of the headphones, making them slightly unreliable. However, during the time they work, they are one of the best out there.
Pros
- Well-priced
- Aesthetically Pleasing
Cons
- Slightly flimsy
- Inflexible
2. HyperX Cloud Flight Wireless Gaming Headset
HyperX are known names in the gaming industry. Producing great items for all to use, their Cloud Flight Wireless Gaming Headset is one of the cheaper products they have on their list. However, for their price, this headset is worth it.
Boasting a high output, these headphones can ensure you hear everything crystal clear, as long as you plan to be in the same place for quite some time. If you aren’t that much of a gamer, you are able to detach the microphone, allowing it to look more normalized.
Pros
- Long-lasting wireless Battery Life
- Surround-sound ready
- Reasonably Priced
Cons
- Excessive
- Gaudy for Travel Usage
- Made more for gaming
3. Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro – Best Overall
Although Beyerdynamic is known more for their music aesthetics, they have dabbled into the gaming region. However, the best of both worlds is their DT 990 Pro Studio Headphones. This set ensures that you get the proper audio, no matter where you are or what time it is. With a sleek design, you will be sure to be rocking no matter where you go. Just be sure not to accidentally toss it into the wind.
Our Pick
Pros
- Extremely Aesthetically Pleasing
- Flexible, Dynamic
- Well-Priced
Cons
- Slightly flimsy
- Very light
4. Logitech G433 – Budget Pick
Logitech is another great name in gaming. Known primarily for solid quality, they have since ventured into the world of aesthetics. Their G433 7.1 Wired gaming headset is one such foray into the world, with a unique twist on the cushioning potential for a headset. It boasts an extremely lightweight build, which can be good or bad, as well as a decent audio output with 7.1 surround sound and Pro-G Drivers for a more dynamic range.
Our Budget Pick
The primary downside is it must be wired in no matter where you go. Because of this, it is not great for travel, but more of a home accessory. However, if you plan to be staying home mostly, these headphones are best for you.
Pros
- Very Lightweight
- Hydrophobic
- Detachable pieces for travel
Cons
- Excessively soft
- Fairly Cheap
- Must be wired
5. Audio-Technica ATH-ADG1X – Premium Pick
A unique market entry, the Audio-Technica ATH-ADG1X Open Air high-fidelity gaming headset is one that many cannot forget. With a strong double air damping system, this headphone setup will be sure to bring you quality sound whenever you game or jam.
Our Premium Pick
There are some major drawbacks, however. First off is the very slim build. Although the headphones are quite large, the actual frame can be bent very easily, and with the amount of accessories attached, you may not want to go out in public with these. However, if you plan to stay at home and want to look good on a webcam, this is your best bet to impress your followers.
Pros
- Exception Sound Quality
- Deep Coverings for Maximum Volume
- Rich Color Contrast
Cons
- Expensive for a gaming headset
- Aesthetically over the top
- Non-detachable mic, wired setup
Best Headphones for Music Exclusively
These headphones listed will be exclusively for music. Although that is not all they can be used for, their primary aim is geared towards those that enjoy all types of music, and may want to focus on individual aspects of the music more than everything in general. These are made with the idea that the individual using them will want to sometimes hear every instrument of the song, or to have the world fade away into a sea of notes and chords washing over them.
Either way, these headphones are the top picks for those wishing to primarily enjoy music.
1. Sennheiser Momentum Wireless
The Sennheiser Momentum Wireless 2019 is one of the more unique headphones on this list. They offer a high level of detail towards optimizing the sound provided to you, allowing the bass to come through more evenly compared to the higher-end notes, as well as more natural-sounding trebles and middle grounds.
Sennheiser Momentum Wireless
Not only that, the design is easily manageable. They offer a frequency response between 6Hz and 22kHz, ensuring you won’t miss a single note throughout the entire song. They also come with noise cancelling technology, making sure that if you are in public, no one can interrupt your quality audio time.
There are a few drawbacks. Specifically speaking, when it comes to wireless headphones, you would want a long-lasting battery to ensure you will not need to charge them for quite a while. However, the Sennheiser Momentum Wireless 2019 clocks in at just 17 hours. Although this is still respectable, it is a decent bit lower than the others on the market. However, in terms of the audio and quality, it rivals most industrial leaders in the current market.
Pros
- High-End audio quality
- Sleek, unique design
- Simple, robust design
Cons
- Low battery life
- Expensive for the features provided
2. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
No list would be complete without a Bose entry. The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 enters our list as one of the premier options for those looking to take their music to new heights, literally. If you plan to be traveling, or in a crowded group at any stage, expect the Bose 700 to bring the solidarity you are looking for.
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
When it comes to noise cancellation techniques, no brand does it better than Bose. Many may consider them one of the premier pioneers in the field. As such, the Bose Headphones 700 provide you with clear, stable audio even as the rest of the world fades into a sea of calm.
This feature can be granted even if you aren’t extremely close to the audio device, as the headphones are connected via bluetooth with a range of 33 feet.
However, the downsides can be quite noticeable. With a battery life of just 20 hours, you may think that the noise-cancelling function may be draining the battery a bit too fast. Because of this, it may not be the appropriate fit if you know you won’t be able to charge it over your long trip. However, if you want to drown out any noisy outsiders, the Bose Noise cancelling Headphones 700 are the best way to go.
Pros
- Reliable Maker
- Outstanding Noise Cancellation
- Amazing Bluetooth Wireless Range
Cons
- Low Battery Life
- Robust Design
- Slightly Expensive for Battery Life
3. JBL Live 650BTNC
JBL is not the most known company of audio equipment. However, in recent years, they have started to gain some traction with their unique perspective on aesthetics and incorporating current technology. THe JBL Live 650 BTNC is one such concoction of theirs, and is a good example of the right direction to start on.
JBL Live 650BTNC
The JBL Live 650 BTNC brings with it powerful, full-body sound. Utilizing the closed-back headphone style, you can be sure you’ll be feeling the weight of every single note. Not only that, the design is quite simple, allowing you to look stylish while you jam.
The only downsides are the battery life and the build itself. With only 20 hours of battery life, it is below the other wireless items on our list. However, for the price, 20 hours is more than you can usually hope for.
Pros
- Dynamic, Impressive sound
- Supports Alexa and Google Assistant
- Low Price for Optimal Quality Sound
Cons
- Micro USB Charging
- Low-end quality build
- Short battery life
4. Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro
As you expected, the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro is one to not be disrespected. At what you may consider to be an over-the-top price, we can assure you that the properties brought forth by this behemoth are well worth the bills.
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro
The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro boasts a frequency range of 5Hz to 40,000Hz, one of the largest ranges we have on this list. Not only that, the exceptional quality and build of the headphones ensures that it can withstand the test of time, while still providing audible cues necessary to enjoy any and all music.
Are you wanting to identify every single instrument in an orchestra production? This set will most likely allow you to do so. Want to hear every single low and high note? The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro will be your best bet to go with. Need a headphone set that allows you to fine-tune a singer’s breakout song? This is what you would bet careers on.
There is only one real downside. With the power of the headphones, comes exceptional drawbacks. If you are not a producer, or high-end enjoyer of music, you may notice that the highest of high notes may be a bit too piercing, resulting in fatiguing. Not only that, the middle layers can be a bit recessed, making the highs and lows much more pronounced. However, other than these very minor drawbacks, this monster is one that you will definitely want to save up for.
Pros
- Sturdy and Comfortable
- Excellent resolution
- Flexible and Durable
Cons
- Extremely Pricey
- Slightly recessed mids
- Over-the-top Clear Notes
5. Bowers & Wilkins PX7 Wireless Headphones
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 Wireless Headphones come in as our last entry into the exclusively music headphone list.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 Wireless Headphones
Although it may not be as confident and accentuated as the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro, it still packs a powerful punch. It holds a frequency response range of 10 Hz to 30,000 Hz, which is quite immense. Not only that, it holds an impressive time of battery life at 30 hours.
The only real downsides to the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 Wireless Headphones are that they are aesthetically non-pleasing. The build itself is quite clunky, with the headphone earcups not collapsing, making it difficult for transport at times. However, if you want clean, affordable, and stylish, Bowers & Wilkins PX7 Wireless Headphones can do just about anything at a reasonable price.
Pros
- Wireless, Ease of Access
- Best-In-Class Sound Quality
- Competitive Battery Life
Cons
- Inflexible
- Robust, Clunky Design
How To Select The Best Headphones For Gaming And Music
When it comes to headphones, many believe that any earpiece will do. After all, they all do the same thing, which is to transport sound to your ears from the audio equipment you are using, right? Very wrong. There is so much more going on when you get the right headphones for yourself. Depending on what you enjoy, such as high quality and classy music, or wanting the best audio when you’re gaming, your headphones can make all the difference.
As such, making sure you know what qualities to search for with headphones is a top priority. Remember, not all headphones are made equal. Many are made to serve a specific purpose, and depending on what you enjoy more, you need to prioritize those above all else. Here is what you need to know about the different properties of headphones, and which you need to prioritize.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is by far the most important property when deciding on your ideal set of headphones. The more expensive you go, the better sound you will usually get. However, there are a few select exceptions to this rule.
Types of Sound Quality
How you define good sound can depend on your personal taste. Are you someone that likes a well-rounded and all-encompassing sound, or do you enjoy being able to hear every single detail of the music you listen to? Are you a studio producer that needs to know every single instrument, or are you a casual listener, who just wants to relax?
When looking at details of headphones, 20Hz to 20 kHZ is usually right for detail-orientated listeners. If you plan to be more casual, anything in between should suit your needs just fine.
Aesthetics
Although this pretty much speaks for itself, aesthetics are important. How you appear to others can influence your quality of life, and can heavily influence how you enjoy music. If you’re out in public, your audio experience can feel hampered and weighed down if you feel like everyone is staring and laughing.
However, if you are using the headphones as a private and personal usage, then you may want to forego aesthetics. Aesthetics can include, but is not limited to:
- External lights
- Color schemes and palettes
- Additional bells and whistles
- Functionality of Support properties
These are just a few of the external aesthetics that may make or break your audio experience. However, because it is not necessarily important, we rank it a bit lower on our list of priority properties.
Travel Capabilities
When it comes to headphones, it goes without saying that how large and bulky it is can severely hamper your musical enjoyment. If the headphones are larger than saucers, then you may be in trouble if you plan to be traveling with them.
As such, taking into account how portable they are can be important. For those that enjoy headphones specifically for music, the capacity at which you carry it around can mean a world of difference. Does it come with a case that’s too big to fit into your bag? Is it too flimsy, and breaks too often? These things need to be considered if you plan to travel with your headphones.
If you plan to travel quite a bit, we would like to advise you to pick up a wireless bluetooth headphone set with extensive battery life, that is collapsible and simple in design.
Features
Lastly, external features can make or break a headset. For instance, for travelling, noise cancellation can be a huge incentive to pick up a headphone set. After all, who really wants to sit and listen to a baby crying for 3 hours on a flight?
Depending on where you plan to use your headphones, however, may require you to think about other items. For instance, if the headset you plan to use is going to be mostly within a studio or private area, surround-sound may be a huge draw. Not only that, heavy amplification on bass and individual sounds may play a huge part in whether or not the headphones will be right for you.
Think about the surroundings you will have the headsets in and why you need the extra features. They may not be the deciding factor, but will grant you quality of life changes that make it all the easier wherever you are.
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