5 Best Open-Back Headphones for Gaming

75% of users selected Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X, 0% selected Sennheiser HD 599, 0% selected ASTRO Gaming A40, 25% selected Audio Technica ATHPDG1 and 0% selected Massdrop x Sennheiser PC37X. Every month we analyze your answers and change our rating.

Open-back headphones can be perfect for gaming. They provide a more immersive experience and allow you to hear your surroundings better.

Reasons for buying open-back headphones if you are a gamer:

• They offer a more natural and spacious soundstage which gives gamers the ability to better judge the position of enemies, obstacles, and other game elements;
• The open-back design also allows for sound leakage, providing gamers with awareness of their surroundings and potentially giving them an edge in competitive games;
• They are often considered more comfortable than closed-back designs due to their lightweight and lack of pressure on the ears;
• They are less likely to cause fatigue over long gaming sessions;

Finally, many open-back models boast features such as detachable cables, variable audio output, and noise cancellation that make them perfect for gaming and general use alike.

In this article, gaming audio experts will discuss what to look for when purchasing such headphones, and provide reviews of five of the best models on the market. They will also give you some helpful tips on how to get the most out of your gaming experience. So whether you’re a PC gamer or a console gamer, read on for the information you need to choose the perfect pair of open-back headphones!

Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones – the Editor’s choice!

With 100 dB/mW sensitivity and a lightweight aluminum design, these headphones are perfect for anyone who wants to experience pure audio bliss. The self-adjusting 3D Wing support system ensures a flexible and comfortable fit, while the expansive soundstage creates a truly immersive listening experience.

With just enough pressure and no risk of the headphones falling down, the self-adjusting 3D wing support ensures complete ear-fit with minimal effort. The flexible fabric earpads provide further comfort during wear.

The flexible ear fit ensures a snug seal, while the vast soundstage creates a spacious and engaging soundscape. And with solid cables that won’t tangle, you can focus on enjoying your music without any distractions.

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SENNHEISER HD 599 Open Back Headphone – the best for comfortable wear!

These headphones are perfect for people who want to enjoy high-quality sound without having to sacrifice comfort.

Also, they’re lightweight and comfortable to wear, making them great for extended listening sessions. And with their great passive soundstage, you’ll feel like you’re right there in the studio with your favorite artist! Best of all, these headphones are affordable too!

The SENNHEISER HD 599 is perfect for those who want affordable, durable, and comfortable headphones with great sound quality. The ivory matte finish is beautiful and goes well with any outfit, and the detachable cable means you can take it with you wherever you go.

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ASTRO Gaming A40 TR X-Edition Headset – the best for the build quality!

Additionally, the durable construction ensures that your headset will last for years to come. Customize your speaker tags to make them uniquely your own!

The sounds that these headsets produce are comparable to those offered by a unit with noise cancellation. Astro, on the other hand, employs a different method to ensure that no external noises enter the headphones. Noise isolation is what they call it, which comes from designer magnetic tags and magnetic ear cushions.

The ASTRO Gaming A40 TR X-Edition is perfect for gaming sessions that last a while. The headset is comfortable to wear and features great sound quality. Plus, it’s customizable so you can make it your own presets.

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Audio-Technica ATHPDG1 Open-Air Premium Gaming Headset – the best for the cable design!

The PDG1 is a very lightweight headset with a comfortable headband and earpads. Metal trim around the ear cups adds a little bit of weight to the construction. This model is the open-back version, which helps with sound localization while playing online games.

You won’t sound like a kid so the microphone is of decent quality and translucent to your voice (if you aren’t a kid, surely). The Gooseneck cable is a high-quality Gooseneck type that bends to any angle you desire.

For gamers who demand the best, we proudly present the Audio-Technica ATHPDG1 headset. Its mini-phone stereo connectors deliver clear sound quality and allow for wired or detachable cable use, while its full-size form is portable and lightweight for on-the-go gaming action.

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Massdrop x Sennheiser PC37X Gaming Headset – the best for an in-built microphone!

The headset also offers good noise isolation, allowing you to focus on your game without distractions. And if you need to take a break, the mic is perfect for gaming chats. Finally, the velour ear pads keep your ears comfortable even after extended use.

Most importantly, the PC37X’s mic is perfect for gaming chats – so your friends will always be able to hear you loud and clear. And lastly, its velour ear pads make extended use a total breeze.

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The Buyer’s Guide

Open-Back Headphones: The Definition

They are designed to give the listener a more natural and spacious sound. This is because these headphones have vents on the back of the ear cups that allow air to circulate in and out, which gives you a more realistic experience when gaming.

There are two types. Semi-open headphones have a small port that allows some sound to escape, while fully open headphones do not have any obstructions and allow the most amount of sound to circulate.

Generally speaking, they tend to produce better quality audio than closed-back headphones. This is because they don’t create as much pressure on the ear cups, which allows for a more natural sound. However, they also leak more noise than closed-back headphones, so they’re not ideal for use in public places.

Open-back headphones are perfect for gaming because they provide a more immersive experience that puts you right in the middle of the action [1].  

Benefits of Open-Back Headphones:

Amazing acoustic quality

The quality of sound in your headset will be considerably superior to the typical headphones on the market due to their well-vented audiophile-grade design.

This device can become a pleasant companion for a long period without causing your head to pound, in addition to providing you with the ability to breathe freely regardless of the pressure of sound or the heat emanating from your body.

No more sweaty ears

Your ears will not sweat as much, which is a common issue for people that wear closed-back headphones. With no coiled-up heat and a steady stream of fresh air, you’ll be able to listen for longer and more comfortably.

The sound is not trapped inside your head

This one might be the most important benefit for some people. When you are playing a game, you want to feel like you’re in the game. They help with that by providing a more realistic and spacious sound. This also makes it less likely that you’ll get overwhelmed by the audio and end up turning the volume down.

Some people might find that such headphones provide a more balanced soundstage, while others may prefer the enclosed feeling of closed-back headphones. It ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for the best gaming experience, then open-back headphones are definitely worth considering.

Lighter weight

They tend to be lighter in weight than closed-back headphones, which is another benefit when it comes to gaming. This is because you don’t want anything weighing you down or getting in the way of your gameplay.

The reduced weight of such headphones is dispersed over a wide surface area, with the majority of the weight concentrated outside of your ears, which means they will feel lighter than they are.

More advanced driver options

Many headphones come with more advanced driver options, such as planar magnetic drivers, which give you a higher quality of sound. If you’re looking for the best possible audio experience when gaming, then open-back headphones are definitely worth considering.

Open-back headphones provide an acoustic  experience that closed-back headphones can’t offer. This is due to the open back design which allows for more soundstage, a better quality of sound, and a generally more comfortable feeling when gaming. You will no longer feel confined to your own headspace, rather you will become enveloped in the game world. 

Best for long listening sessions

They are perfect for those long gaming sessions. Not only do they provide great sound quality, but they also allow your ears to breathe and avoid sweating. This will help keep you comfortable for hours on end.

Main Features:

Types of Headphones:

1) Closed-back vs. open-back headphones for gaming

Many people are wondering what the difference is between closed-back and open-back headphones. Closed-back headphones have a seal around the earcup that blocks out external noise, while open-back headphones don’t have that seal and allow more sound to escape. 

For gaming, it’s generally recommended to use open-back headphones because they give you a more accurate soundstage and allow you to hear your enemies coming from all directions. 

Closed-back headphones are good for blocking out external noise but can be a bit claustrophobic after wearing them for a while [2]. 

2) Headphone & mic vs gaming headset

Another thing you’ll need to decide on is whether you want a headphone and mic combo or a gaming headset. A gaming headset will have both the headphones and microphone attached to one unit, while a headphone and mic combo will have two separate pieces. 

Gaming headsets are generally more expensive than combos, but they do have some advantages. They’re typically more comfortable to wear since the weight is distributed evenly, and they also have better sound quality than a headphone and mic combo. 

However, if you don’t mind having two separate pieces, a headphone and mic combo will give you a bit more flexibility when it comes to choosing your gaming setup.

3) Wired vs wireless gaming headphones

The last thing you need to decide on is whether you want wired or wireless gaming headphones. Wired headphones are cheaper and have a better sound quality, but they can be a bit inconvenient because you’re tethered to your computer. 

Wired headphones are convenient because they don’t require a battery. This means you may use the headphones for long periods without having to worry about unplugging them to charge the battery. The lifespan of wired headphones is another point of concern.

Over time, headphone deterioration may force the device to shut down early. Wired headphones are also compatible with a variety of platforms. The headphone may be used via phone, desktop, laptop, or PS4 through USB, AUX, or other connections.

However, wireless gaming headphones have their benefits. One of the most significant is freedom of movement. If you must move about, wireless headsets are a great alternative since they allow for greater mobility.

The most noticeable difference between the two is the sound quality, which varies depending on the type of headphones you’re using. While the quality of the sound will vary depending on a variety of factors, wired headphones usually produce superior audio than wireless ones. Wireless tech, on the other hand, is improving at a rapid pace. With time, wireless technology becomes better. However, while wireless headphones have improved considerably over recent years, they still do not sound as good as wired headphones.

Wireless headphones are more expensive but offer more freedom since you can move around without having to worry about getting tangled up in wires. 

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what you’re comfortable with.

4) Backless headphones

Backless headphones are another type of open-back headphones. As the name suggests, they don’t have a band that goes over your head and rests on your ears as traditional headphones do. 

This makes them more lightweight and comfortable to wear for long periods of time, but they also tend to be less durable than other types of headphones. 

Backless headphones are generally more expensive than traditional headphones, but they do offer a unique listening experience that you can’t get with other types of headphones. 

Sound Quality

Open-back headphones are a great option for gaming because they offer superior sound quality. This is due to the open design of the ear cups, which allows sound to escape freely and creates an immersive experience. 

Closed-back headphones have sealed ear cups that block out exterior noise, while open-back headphones do not. This makes them a better choice for gaming because you want to be able to hear all of the sounds in the game.

Many gamers prefer open-back headphones because they provide a more natural sound. This is because open-back headphones do not use any noise-canceling technology, which can often distort the sound quality. Closed-back headphones use noise-canceling technology to block out exterior noise, but this can often create a muffled sound.

Open-back headphones are also a better choice for listening to music and watching movies. The natural sound quality provides an immersive experience that closed-back headphones cannot match.

Build Quality

The build quality of open-back headphones is typically better than that of closed-back headphones. This is because the drivers and other internal components are not enclosed, so they need to be able to withstand more wear and tear. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.

One thing to look for is quality construction materials. Headphones made with plastic or other cheap materials are likely to break or fall apart over time. Instead, try to find headphones that are made with metal or other durable materials. This will help them last longer and stand up to wear and tear.

Another important factor is how the headphones are assembled. If they’re poorly put together, they may come apart at the seams or have other durability issues. Make sure to inspect the construction of the headphones before making your purchase.

Mic Quality

Many gamers use voice chat while playing multiplayer games, so it’s important that your microphone picks up your voice clearly. The best open-back headphones for gaming will have good mic quality, so you can be heard clearly by your friends.

Some of the factors that affect microphone quality include the type of microphone (condenser or dynamic), its placement on the headphone, and whether it’s adjustable. Ideally, you want a condenser microphone that is adjustable and placed close to your mouth.

Some of the best open-back headphones for gaming with good mic quality include the Sennheiser HD 58X Jubilee, Audio-Technica ATH-AD700x, Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 80 Ohm, and AKG K712 Pro. These headphones have all received high marks from users for their clear microphone quality.

If you need a good pair of headphones for gaming and don’t mind giving up some sound quality in order to have better mic quality, then the HyperX Cloud Alpha is a great option. It has a dynamic microphone that is placed close to your mouth and is adjustable, so you can ensure that it’s in the best position for picking up your voice.

Soundstage

The soundstage is the most crucial aspect of any gaming headset. A soundstage is an imagined three-dimensional space constructed by high-fidelity sound reproduction. A broad and open soundstage allows you to believe that various sounds are originating from different places. This can be felt on your sides, above and below, or far away.

Open-back headphones have a bigger soundstage by design, whereas closed-back headphones are inherently superior at reproducing sounds. As a result, you’re off to a good start by going down this path [3].

Noise Resistance

The type of gaming headphones that can block outside noise is determined on a case-by-case basis by users.

The background noise reduction feature on some open-back headphones, on the other hand, is not as good. Despite its excellent sound quality, it delivers a substantial amount of noise.

The lack of effective noise reduction will cause you to hear outside noises quickly. It has a big influence on the quality of your gaming experience. As a result, open-back headphones with good noise cancellation are the way to go.

Because open-back headphones are not well suited for loud situations like closed headphones, most experts should not expect them to be noise-canceling.

For a perfect gaming experience, use open-back headphones in a quiet, closed space. And, most importantly, shut the door to minimize outside noise intrusion.

Drivers

One of the most important aspects of a great gaming headphone is its drivers. The best headphones for gaming will have high-quality drivers that can create clear and precise sound. This is especially important in games that rely on audio cues, like shooters and horror games, to determine what is happening around you. 

Some headphones, like the Sennheiser HD598Cs, come with dedicated drivers that are specifically designed for gaming. This means that you can be sure that the sound you’re hearing is accurate and precise. Other headphones, like the Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X, use regular drivers but have been tweaked to provide a better gaming experience.

If you’re not sure whether the drivers in your headphones are good enough for gaming, you can always check online reviews to see what other people have had to say. Just be sure to read reviews from credible sources!

Comfort

One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a gaming headphone is how comfortable it will be. This is especially important if you plan on wearing your headphones for extended periods of time. Many open-back headphones have ear cups that are made from cloth or mesh, which can help keep your ears cool and comfortable. Additionally, many models feature adjustable headbands, so you can find the perfect fit.

If you are looking for a more luxurious option, some headphones feature leatherette or velour ear cups that feel soft and comfortable against your skin. However, keep in mind that these types of materials may be less breathable than cloth or mesh. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what is most important to you: comfort or breathability.

Impedance

When it comes to gaming headphones, you want something that is both sensitive and has a low impedance. This will ensure that you get the clearest sound possible when playing your favorite games. 

Most open-back headphones have a high impedance, so it is important to make sure you select one that will work well with your gaming console or computer.

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FAQ

What is the point of open-back headphones?

They are designed to provide a more natural and spacious soundstage than closed-back headphones. This is because the drivers are not enclosed in a cup, which allows air to circulate around them. This results in a more immersive experience, as it feels like you’re listening to music or gaming audio in a room rather than through headphones [4].

Are open-back headphones worth it?

Open-back headphones offer a more immersive experience than closed-back headphones, and as such are worth the investment for gamers who want to get the most out of their games. However, they are not ideal for use in noisy environments, as the sound leakage can be heard by those around you.

Are open-back headphones better for your ears?

There is no definitive answer to this question. Open-back headphones can be more or less damaging to your ears than closed-back headphones depending on the volume at which you listen to them. It is generally recommended that you keep the volume at a moderate level when using open-back headphones, in order to avoid any long-term damage.

Can others hear open-back headphones?

They are designed to leak sound, which is why they’re not recommended for use in quiet settings like libraries, offices, or classrooms. That said, the leakage from open-back headphones isn’t so loud that it will disturb people sitting close by. If you’re worried about disturbing others, consider using closed-back headphones instead. 

Are open-back headphones quiet?

Open-back headphones all have some amount of sound leak and are louder than closed-back headphones. Sound leakage is estimated to be around 30-50 percent for some open-back headphones [5].  This is because the drivers are open to the environment and not enclosed in cup-like closed-back headphones. This can be a good thing if you want to monitor your game audio and also hear what is going on around you, but it can also be a bad thing if you don’t want others to hear what you are listening to. If you are in a quiet environment, open-back headphones may not be the best choice for you.

Do open-headphones sound better?

There is a lot of debate surrounding the sound quality of open-back headphones. Some people swear by their audio quality, while others find that they don’t offer much of an advantage over traditional headphones. The truth is that it depends on your preferences and what you’re looking for in a pair of headphones.

Open-back headphones are generally considered to have a more natural sound quality, with a wider range of frequencies and less distortion. This is because the ear cups don’t completely cover your ears, which allows for some external noise to seep in. This also means that people nearby can hear what you’re listening to, so they may not be the best choice for public use.

If you’re looking for headphones that offer a more immersive experience, with superior sound quality and no outside noise interference, then open-back headphones are definitely the way to go. Just keep in mind that they might not be as suitable for noisy environments or travel.

Why are open headphones better than closed?

There are a few reasons why open headphones tend to be better for gaming than closed ones. First and foremost, it’s because they offer a more natural soundscape. This is because open-back headphones don’t have any physical barriers between your ears and the outside world, which allows sound waves to flow in and out more freely. This gives you a much greater sense of immersion, as you’re able to hear sounds that would otherwise be hidden by the headphones’ enclosure.

Second, open headphones tend to have a wider soundstage than closed ones. This means that they produce a more spacious and accurate stereo image, which is great for gaming  where positional audio is crucial. Finally, open headphones are usually more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, due to their greater breathability.

Is Razer Kraken open back?

The Razer Kraken is a closed-back headphone, so it would not be the best option for gaming. Closed-back headphones are designed to isolate the user from external sound and create a more immersive experience. This can be great for gaming or listening to music, but it can also make it difficult to hear people talking near you or other important sounds [6].

Can people hear background noise through headphones?

The answer to this question depends on the type of headphones that are being used. If a person is using open-back headphones, then it is likely that people nearby will be able to hear the background noise. Closed-back headphones do a better job of blocking out outside noise. That said, there are some closed-back headphones that allow some sound to leak out, which can also be heard by people nearby.

Are the Astro A50 headphones open back?

These headphones are open-back and feature Dolby 7.1 surround sound, allowing them to provide great and immersive audio in any gaming scenario. Furthermore, the headphones are open-back, giving them a more realistic sound [7].

Are open-back headphones more expensive?

No, open-back headphones are not always more expensive than closed-back headphones. In fact, there are a few great options for affordable open-back headphones on the market today. However, some of the higher-end and professional-grade open-back headphones can be quite expensive.

Are open-back headphones breathable?

The answer to this question is a bit complicated. Open-back headphones do not have a sealed enclosure, which means that the sound leaks in and out of the ear cups. This also allows for airflow in and out of the ear cups, making them breathable. 

How do I know if my open-back headphones are too loud?

If your headphones are too loud, you’ll likely experience some discomfort in your ears after extended use. You may also find that the sound is distorted or “muddy” when played at high volumes. If you’re not sure whether your headphones are too loud, try listening to a song or game at a lower volume and see if it sounds better.

If you’re still not sure, it’s best to consult with an audio professional to get their opinion. They can help you adjust the settings on your headphones or suggest other solutions that may work better for you.

Why are most gaming headphones closed back?

Closed-back headphones are more common in the gaming world because they offer a sense of privacy and create a better experience for the listener by blocking out external noise. This is ideal for gamers who want to be completely immersed in their game without any distractions.

Can I use the best open-back headphones for gaming to listen to music?

Yes, you can use the best open-back headphones for gaming to listen to music. However, keep in mind that the sound quality may not be as good as when using dedicated headphones for music listening.

What’s the ideal length for open-back headphones’ long cables?

There’s no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on your personal preferences and the type of gaming setup you have. However, a good rule of thumb is to try and keep the cable length as short as possible to avoid getting tangled up.

If you have a dedicated gaming PC or console, then we recommend using a shorter cable to avoid any distractions. However, if you’re using a laptop or desktop computer and need a longer cable for optimal positioning, then go for it! Just be mindful of how much slack there is in the cord[8].

Video Tutorial: Audio Technica ATH-AD700x Headphones Review