When looking for headphones, you've probably come across various types of designs. Over-ear, in-ear, canal-type. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. In addition to these, there are also gaming headphones, which gained popularity a long time ago. They have dominated the market in many aspects, becoming one of the most commonly chosen models. So you might ask yourself the relevant question: "How do gaming headphones differ from classic headphones?" and "which ones should I choose?".

Advantages of gaming headphones? There are several of them.

Right from the start, it's worth noting a few advantages that distinguish gaming headsets:

1. Sound characteristics - the first and most important advantage of gaming headsets is their proper tuning. Gamers often expect not only detailed sound but also audible spatial and directional cues that help locate the enemy by sound. Many gaming headsets (specifically their drivers) are tuned to emphasise the exact frequency ranges responsible for footsteps, rustling, and other details that allow you to hear your opponent. The soundstage and its spatial representation are also important. The larger the soundstage, the better the sense of the surrounding environment and its location.

2. Built-in microphone - a built-in microphone is essential for team play. Some time ago, built-in microphones were unable to match dedicated external microphones. However, modern gaming headsets are equipped with high-quality boom microphones that allow clear communication without disturbances and noise. The main advantages? No need to spend on external equipment, which would also take up additional space. An additional plus of many models is that the microphones can be easily folded, tucked away in the ear cup, or even detached, making transportation easier.

3. Comfort - long-term comfort is one of the most important aspects after sound quality. What good are headphones if they sound great but after just an hour of gaming, your ears start hurting due to excessive clamping force? Both classic headphones and gaming-designed models can be comfortable, but it is often the latter that prioritise soft, durable ear cushions, untangled cables, and lightweight construction. A perfect example of this is the Genesis Radon 800 7.1 headphones, weighing only 179 grams.

4. Functionality is something that is hard to find in classic models. Gaming headsets are often equipped with a range of useful additional features that facilitate not only gaming but also everyday use. Examples are endless. These can include software that allows for editing key parameters (including sound), additional controls on the cables, interchangeable ear cushions, shell illumination, instant microphone muting functions, and even virtual 7.1 surround sound to enhance the gaming experience. Many of these features cannot be found in classic models.

Advantages of classic headphones

Classic headphones also have their advantages:

1. Neutral, musical sound - this point may seem somewhat controversial. After all, if classic headphones perform well in music, why wouldn't they perform equally well in games? However, sometimes it is due to a completely different sound signature. Some classic headphones may have a specific sound that is desired in a particular music genre but may not emphasise the most important aspects in a specific genre of games. They are, therefore, less versatile. However, if you know the sound you are looking for, choosing the right model can provide a better experience, especially in music and music production.

2. High-quality components - if you are a professional seeking stage-like, spacious headphones for a specific type of application, and price is not a factor, the variety of classic models will ensure that you can find headphones equipped with advanced electronics and excellent drivers, which, when connected to a good sound source, will provide the best possible quality for a given application.

3. Greater variety - although the gaming headset market has grown to really large sizes, classic headphones still win in terms of diversity. A good example of this is in-ear headphones for gamers, which, although present in the market, cannot compete with classic models in this aspect. So if you are looking for specific headphones, you will probably find them faster among classic designs than gaming headsets.

Cheaper gaming headphones or classic ones?

You can find many models on the market, both cheaper and more expensive. The choice between one or the other should always be well thought out. Of course, a lot depends on your budget, but the most important thing is to find a model that meets your expectations, both cheap gaming headphones and expensive ones can do that. It is true that more expensive models will often differ not only in price but also in slightly better build quality, more additional features, or accessories that may be important to you. However, cheaper models are still a good solution.

A perfect example of this can be the Genesis Argon 100. This classic headphone set provides not only comfort and decent sound (equipped with 40mm drivers) but also versatility. It has a built-in dynamic microphone, volume control on the braided cable, all for less than 100 PLN, making it a great choice, especially for gamers who are just starting their adventure and are looking for well-priced equipment.

In this price range, it is possible to find classic headphones, but it will require the purchase of an additional microphone and will have worse functionality. The choice, therefore, depends on personal preferences.

Genesis gaming headphones. Click and choose the perfect model for you.

Gaming headphones or classic ones - which to choose?

Are you still wondering which headphones will be the best for you? If so, just answer a few questions below:

1. Do you expect detailed, spatial sound that will give you an advantage in gameplay?

2. Are you looking for one headphone set and don't want to spend extra money on an external microphone or don't have space for it, while still valuing versatility?

3. Do you want access to software and additional features that allow you to edit sound characteristics, mute the microphone, control volume, and more?

If your answer to the above questions is "yes," then you should definitely pay attention to gaming headsets. However, if:

1. You expect personalised sound for a specific professional application.

2. You are looking for a non-standard design without a microphone.

3. You expect the absolute highest audio quality, and price is not a factor.

Then classic models can also be a reasonable choice.