Are Studio Headphones Good For Gaming? The Facts

We know that gaming headphones are engineered for providing high boosted bass, colorized sound, and virtual stage. These things are essential to immerse yourself in the gaming world.

On the other hand, studio headphones are best for reproducing neutral sound. Therefore, many audio fanatics choose them for casual listening purposes.

Many gamers also think the same. But, are studio headphones good for gaming?

What is your opinion regarding this fact?

Well, if you are confused about the answer, let me tell you about my point of view.

Actually, most studio headphones are not good for gaming. But some are highly suitable for video game playing.

In the next part, I’ll explain it more elaborately for your better understanding.

So, let’s start the discussion now.

Are Studio Headphones Good For Gaming?

The below points will tell you the advantages of studio headphones for gaming.

You will understand the superiority of studio headphones over gaming headsets.

Now, catch a glimpse of them.

Better Audio Quality

Gaming headsets are explicitly optimized for game audio. They have a narrow frequency response, high sound pressure level, etc.

On average, the frequency response of gaming headsets is about 12 Hz- 28 kHz.

However, studio headphones usually have border frequency responses of about 4 Hz- 40 kHz.

As a result, they can deliver smoother sound with good detailing.

And also ideal for reproducing sounds from any genre.

They are also able to provide a dynamic audio experience from any audio source.

Excellent Soundstage

A wide soundstage comes in handy while playing action games that include gunfires, footsteps, or other mild noise.

Studio headphones can offer a more consistent soundstage that enhances sounds from every angle.

For this, you can hear every detail of your opponent very clearly and have an interactive experience.

Highly Comfortable

Studio headphones are designed for extended use. The manufacturer ensures that you can wear them for hours without feeling any nuisance.

In the case of gaming, typical gaming sessions don’t take as much time as recording, monitoring, tracking, or other studio work.

Typically, studio headphones remain comfortable even after 10 hours of continuous sessions.

On the other hand, playing video games is exhausting for both eyes and ears.

So, it’s not healthy to continue a session for more than 2 hours. If you play longer, it will affect your health.

So, usually, the makers of gaming headphones don’t pay special attention to comfortability as the engineers of studio headphones do.

Sustained Build-Quality

The most outstanding fact about studio headphones is that they are built to last long. Some of them even stay for decades.

It’s hard to find highly durable gaming headphones.

Good For Budget

Although on average, the price of studio headphones is relatively higher than gaming headsets, buying a studio headphone is a good investment.

With a one-time payment, you can have years of service from most of the studio headphones.

As a result, they are worth every penny.

So, these are the features that make studio headphones a good deal for gaming.

Yet, there are some things you may miss out if you choose studio headphones for gaming purposes.

What are they?

Find your answer in the below segment.

Some Drawbacks Of Studio Headphones For Gaming

There are some features that studio headphones can’t help you out with while playing games.

Although these are not a big deal, and it’s okay to overlook them.

No Built-In Mic

Usually, studio headphones don’t come with a mic.

Even if sometimes they do, the microphone quality is not that good.

So, if your games need audio chatting, they won’t be able to help you.

Virtual Surround Sound

Most of the top-notch gaming headphones have software or hardware solutions for delivering Virtual Surround Sound mode.

For this, it’s possible to have a spatial awareness that improves your gaming experience.

Unfortunately, studio headphones don’t have this type of feature.

Dramatic Effect Is Absent

Normally, the soundtrack of video games has dramatic effects and intense sounds. The more intense the sound, the better experience you will have.

Therefore, for some games, colorized sounds feel better than flat sounds.

Anyway, you may not mind these shortcomings, and authentic audiophile sound is the thing that matters to you the most.

In this case, studio headphones will be a bit under the weather for you.

However, I already mentioned that not all studio headphones are suitable for gaming.

You must need to know about the features that make a studio headphone eligible for gaming.

In the following segment, I’m going to tell you about some essential aspects.

These are the facts that need to be checked to determine whether a studio headphone is ideal for gaming or not.

How To Choose A Studio Headphone For Gaming?

Sound plays a vital role while playing games.

Therefore, choosing the right headset is quite challenging work to do.

But don’t worry.

Just go through the following section.

After doing so, you will find the right headphone for you straight away.

Examine The Technical Specifications

I’m aware of the fact that checking out the technical specifications is a little bit hard for a regular person.

But don’t worry!

I am explaining it in an easier way so that you won’t face any difficulties.

You can easily verify the driver size, frequency response, impedance, etc.

In the case of frequency response, anything between 20 Hz to a max of 20 kHz is good.

On the other hand, keep in your mind that larger drivers can produce more precise sounds.

Hence, studio headphones with driver diameter 40mm – 50mm, are perfect for gaming.

And lastly, compare the impedance, sensitivity, etc., according to the specifications of your devices.

Open-Back Or Close Back

Open-back headphones have a specious soundstage, while normally, closed-back one have better imaging.

Broad soundstage delivers an immersive sound experience.

On the other hand, imaging is beneficial for positioning individual sounds, which is important in action video games.

You will hear footsteps, the sound of gunshots, or others more precisely.

Well, you should also keep in mind the sound leakage fact. Open-back headphones leak a lot of sounds, but closed-back ones don’t.

Thus, you should select one according to your preference.

How Comfy Are They?

Before buying a headphone, you need to look at the earcup size, headband feature, and padding.

Make sure that the padding is sufficient and the material suits your skin.

Besides, verify that the clamping force is not too tight for you. And always choose a lightweight headphone.

You can’t pay attention to your game if you are in discomfort.

Check Out The Durability

Although studio headphones are famous for their robust build, It’s better to choose a headphone that consists of easily replaceable parts.

So, even if you damage it somehow because of the excitement of a battle game, you can repair it without any problem.

Well, these are the facts you need to consider before buying a studio headset for gaming.

But you know, it’s rare for a professional headphone to be good for gaming activities. You might find it very difficult to pick up the right one.

However, don’t worry.

The following part will help you a lot in your searching mission.  

Which Studio Headphones Are Good For Gaming?

Here, I have shortlisted the appropriate studio headphones for your convenience. You don’t have to waste your time on research.

Just go through the review of the top 10 best studio headphones for gaming to determine the right one for you.

You will also discover all the ins and outs of them.

Let’s start the discussion now.

Review Of 10 Best Studio Headset For Gaming

At first, see the table below to get a primary idea of these top headphones.

Now, it’s time to dive into the core part of the article. I will explain the features of these headphones one by one.

Here, you will see all the key specs and pros-cons.

At first, let’s start with my top recommended one.

1. Top Recommendation: AKG Pro Audio K702 Over-Ear, Open-Back, Flat-Wire, Reference Studio Headphones

★★★★★

The high-end AKG Pro Audio K702 featured an open design for spacious and airy sound. The headphone delivered an incredibly accurate response.

What do you think? Why have I kept this headphone as the top one?

Just keep reading. You will find the answer for yourself.

The key specs are given below.

Key Specification

• Connectivity Technology: Wired.
• Form Factor: Over-Ear.
• Color: Black.
• Maximum Input Power: 200 mW.
• Audio Frequency Bandwidth: 10 Hz- 39800 Hz.
• Connector Type: XLR.
• Material Type: Leather.
• Weight: 235 g.
• Item Dimensions: 4.45 x 7.83 x 8.35 inches.

The most innovative technology that the K702 comes with is the AKG Varimotion two-layer diaphragm. It can provide accurate, clear, and powerful sound for wide frequencies.

On the other hand, the AKG’s flat-wire technology improves the pulse response and efficiency.

Their 3D-Form ear pads are also a notable feature.

Along with it, the leather-made headband provides maximum comfort.

Altogether, the headphone ensures a premium listening experience with a fatigue-free fit.

It can support your few hours of gaming sessions easily.

Overall, if you are an audiophile gamer, you are definitely going to like this pair of headphones.

This extremely lightweight headphone is perfect for sound productions and audio professionals. But it indeed makes a good impression on the gamers.

You can use the K702 for casual listening too.

Their price is also reasonable.

You can try them out without any hesitation.

Ok, now I’ll disclose my next headphone on the list.

2. Premium Workmanship: SIVGA Phoenix 50MM Polycarbonate Film Zebrano Headphone

★★★★★

The ergonomically shaped SIVGA Phoenix is created with the aristocracy. The cavity is handled by Zebra wood through CNC. After that, they are polished and painted manually.

Let me tell you their key specs.

Key Specification

• Color: Zebrano.
• Connectivity Technology: Wired.
• Fit Type: Over-Ear.
• Sensitivity: 103 dB.
• Weight: 296 g.
• Cable: 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm cable.
• Noise Control: None.
• Warranty: 1 year.
• Item Dimensions: 11.02 x 8.31 x 5.31 inches.

This headphone contains an ultra-thin diaphragm that ensures that the sound is free from any distortion.

It delivers a clean and magnificent high and an excellent natural mid. Moreover, you can also feel the decent and flexible bass.

The deluxe headphone is also up to the mark in comfortability.

They made the inner layer of the ear pad out of the inert sponge, and the outer part is made of skin-friendly velvet.

The earpads are replaceable.

On the other hand, the elastic stainless steel headband is padded with goat leather and also has an adjustable feature.

You can slide the head frame to get a comfortable position.

I have listed this headphone for its outstanding sound features and suitability for gaming.

The SIVGA Phoenix is capable of providing you a real war feeling if you are playing games like Battlefield. The precise sound is just mind-blowing!

You can use this headset with any of your low-end devices and still get an outstanding sound.

Although the expense is a little bit high, the quality is totally worth it.

I would recommend this headphone to those gamers who want stylish-looking headphones with a board soundstage.

Our later headphone is beyerdynamic Dt 880.

Let’s see how it performs in the case of gaming.

3. Built For Long-Lasting: Beyerdynamic Dt 880 250 Ohm Pro

★★★★★

Beyerdynamic Dt 880 250 Ohm Pro is a famous studio headphone that many audio workers trusts.

They are widely used by gamers too.

In the beginning, look at their key specs from the following segment.

Key Specification

• Connectivity Technology: Wired.
• Form Factor: Over-Ear.
• Color: Black (limited edition), Gray.
• Cable Length: 3 m Coiled cable.
• Plug: 3.5 mm mini-jack and ¼ inch adapter.
• Earpads: Velours
• Weight: 286 g.
• Item Dimensions: 6 x 4.5 x 8 inches.

Since the Dt 880 is a semi-open headphone, it can’t provide a wide soundstage like the SIVGA Phoenix or AKG Pro Audio K702.

However, because of the design, they have a slightly better noise attenuation feature.

If you want to get both open and closed back features from the same headphone, you are gonna love this one.

The headphone is also vastly compatible because of the universal jack and the 6.35 mm adapter.

You can connect it with almost all audio devices and gaming consoles.

Regarding the sound feature, it has an excellent soundstage. You can also pick up the direction of sounds in video games very easily.

The Beyerdynamic Dt 880 can provide hours of comfort, while the healthier limit of playing video games is about 2 to 3 hours.

Moreover, the soft earpads not only ensure comfort but are also replaceable.

And because of the robust build, the Beyerdynamic guarantees the longevity of this product.

Overall, it’s a great investment if you want an audiophile headphone for gaming.  

Anyway, now let me introduce you to a super affordable versatile headphone on the below segment.

4. Overall Good: Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX Planar Magnetic Over-ear Open-back Headphones

★★★★★

The Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX is an award-wining headphone for its amazing Planar magnetic drivers technology.

Within this budget, this headphone is a true gem for audio enthusiasts.

Check out their key specs below.

Key Specification

• Connectivity Technology: Wired.
• Form Factor: Over-Ear.
• Color: Midnight-Blue.
• Cable: 1.5 m (removable)
• Plug: 3.5 mm to 6.35 mm adapter.
• Weight: 370 g.
• Item Dimensions: 10.2 x 8.66 x 5.35 inches.

Unfortunately, the cable length of this headphone is relatively smaller than Beyerdynamic Dt 880, but it’s removable.

Apart from the cable feature, everything is remarkable about this headphone.

It doesn’t need an amp to sound good because of its high efficiency. From any device, you will be able to get a smooth and engaging sound.

The renowned planner bass slam is also present across the wide frequency range.

As this headphone goes too well with the soundtracks of a game, I have included it on the list. 

Their attention to detail is quite praiseworthy.

The soft luxurious velour earpad has sufficient cushioning and special positioning for better acoustic sound.

Moreover, the headband is made out of spring steel. It can bend without losing its shape.

The breathable protein leather of the headband is hand-stitched.

Lastly, the matte finish looks gorgeous, and it is also resistant to fingerprints.

You can use this headphone with your computer, laptop, smartphone, Smart TV, and other gadgets that support 3.5 mm or 6.35 mm cable.

It is also compatible with PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One.

So, whether you are a PC gamer or playing on a gaming console, the Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX will always support you.

Well, till now, I have only discussed open-back or semi-open headphones. So, this time I will review a closed-back studio headphone that is ideal for gaming.

5. Good For Sound Isolation: Shure SRH840 Professional Monitoring Headphones

★★★★★

With a robust build, the Shure SRH840 provides the next-level listening experience. The closed-back design perfectly seals the ear and reduces background noise.

Their key specs are as below.

Key Specification

• Color: Black.
• Connectivity Technology: Wired.
• Form Factor: Over-the-ear.
• Sensitivity: 102 dB.
• Cable: 3 m detachable coiled cable.
• Weight: 318 g.
• Item Dimensions: 9.5 x 4.5 x 8.5 inches.

Because of the design, the SRH840 can’t provide a board soundstage like HE4XX or other open-back headphones I have mentioned earlier.

However, they are good at providing a noise-free environment in any situation.

The collapsible design makes them easy to store as well as portable.

Moreover, the replaceable cable and ear pads ensure a long product life.

We all love to get something extra, right?

The extra accessories that the Shure provides will surely bring a smile to your face. You will get an additional pair of earpads and a carrying bag.

The Shure SRH840 is suitable for versatile use. It is ideal for voice-over performance or other studio works.

It is also perfect for casual listening or streaming your favorite movies and series.

The wide range and decent bass is also suitable for the metal symphony. Games like God of War are delightful to play while wearing this headphone.

This super budget-friendly headphone is worth buying.

Anyway, our next headphone is Audio-Technica ATH-M50X. Check out how it performs.

6. Top-Notch Service: Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones

★★★★★

ATH-M50X is a top-rated headphone in the audio industry. From indoor to on the road, it can assist you in your everyday life.

Take a look at their key specs.

Key Specification

• Connectivity Technology: Wired.
• Form Factor: Over-Ear.
• Color: Black, Blue, Gun Metal, White, Purple/Black.
• Sensitivity: 98 dB.
• Maximum Input Power: 1600 mW.
• Earcup Swivel: 90° Both Directions.
• Cable: 1.2 m – 3.0 m coiled cable and 1.2 m straight cable (Both Detachable).
• Material Type: Aluminum
• Weight: 283 g.
• Item Dimensions: 11.4 x 10 x 4.1 inches.

In between the Shure SRH840 and ATH-M50X, the ATH-M50X has less frequency response. Meanwhile, their impedance and driver diameter are better.

Moreover, you will hear clear sounds even in a loud environment because of the excellent sound isolation feature.

The high-grade material of headband and earpads ensure long-wearing comfort and, at the same time, extended durability.

It also has swiveling earcups for easy one-ear monitoring.

The headphone provides exceptional service for professional work and also for gaming.

ATH-M50X has outstanding sound leakage performance. So, if you don’t want to disturb others while playing video games, this will be a great option for you.

Within an inexpensive budget, the headphone honestly provides an out-of-ordinary service.

If you want more elaborate information, you can check out my previous review on  ATH-M50X.

Well, in this write-up, I have mainly referred to the studio headphones that are also standard for gaming.

However, I want to talk about a gaming headphone that suits the price range and also has a good sound quality.

Although it’s not that good for studio work, I have included it on my list because of its high-quality audio and top-notch build quality.

So, without further ado, see what it offers to us.

7. Ideal For Mid-Budget: Razer BlackShark V2 Headset: THX 7.1 Spatial Surround Sound

★★★★

If you want a specially manufactured gaming headset, this one will suit you best. The BlackShark V2 is an industry-leading gaming peripheral.

Their key specs are given below.

Key Specification

• Form Factor: Over-ear.
• Connectivity: Wired.
• Color: Classic Black, Blue-Yellow.
• Connection: 3.5 mm/ USB sound card.
• Sensitivity: 100 dB SPL/mW, 1 kHz.
• Impedance: 32 Ohms (1 kHz).
• Surround Sound: 7.1 Surround Sound.
• Frequency Response: 12 Hz – 28 kHz.
• Cable Length: 1.8 m.
• Mic Frequency Response: 100 Hz- 610 kHz.
• Mic Sensitivity: -42 dB V/Pa, 1 kHz.
• Mic Pickup Pattern: Unidirectional.
• Weight: 262 g.
• Dimension: ‎7.6 x 6.76 x 3.86 inches.
• Compatibility: PC, Mac, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices with a 3.5mm port.

Although this high-end headset is not suitable for neutral listening, it can provide accurate spatial audio information.

The THX 7.1 Surround Sound helps you to immerse yourself in video game reality.

Furthermore, they come with cutting-edge and extra-large Triforce Titanium drivers. They are divided into three parts for individually tuning the highs, mids, and lows.

THX Spatial Audio is only available on Windows 10 (64-bit).

The HyperClear Cardioid Mic can pick up voice from a particular area and also feature an advanced voice tweaking option.

The BlackShark V2 is compatible with PS4, PS5, Xbox 1, Nintendo Switch, and other gaming consoles. Not only you can play video games with it, but they are also ideal for conducting online sessions or voice calls.

It is one of the best wired headsets with a microphone for cell phones.

As a true audio enthusiast gamer, you can go for this headphone.

Let’s move on to the later headphone.

8. Decent Sound: Status Audio CB-1 Closed Back

★★★★

Status Audio CB-1 is a fashionable headphone whose aesthetic looks will surely catch your attention. The design is also foldable and travel-friendly.

Have a look at their key specs.

Key Specification

• Connectivity Technology: Wired, USB Sound Card.
• Form Factor: Over-Ear.
• Color: Black.
• Connector Type: 3.5 mm jack, ¼ inch adaptor.
• Cable: One coiled and one straight detachable cables.
• Weight: 227 g.
• Item Dimensions: 6.54 x 3.62 x 8 inches.

The manufacturing quality of this headphone is not as good as ATH-M50X. Still, for the price, it is really impressive.

It provides pretty well sound isolation because of the perfect over-the-ear design. The customizable headband also doesn’t create any extra pressure over your head.

On the other hand, the large drivers provide incredible detail.

Vocalists, instrumentalists, gamers, and regular listeners all of them can get a great service from Status Audio CB-1.

Although this headphone doesn’t provide a broad soundstage like an open-back headphone, still, it’s relatively wide.

Besides, the vocals and instrument sound crystal-clear at any volume.

You can hope for the best experience from this low-priced headphone without any disappointment.

Previously, I have written a single review of Status Audio CB-1. You can read it to get more insights.

Now, look at the ninth headphone on the list.

9. Ideal For Multiple Uses: TUNICAL Over-Ear Headphones

★★★★

Because of the low impedance, this headphone is suitable for pretty much every audio and video application.

Look at their key specs in the next section.

Key Specification

• Connectivity Technology: Wired.
• Form Factor: Over-Ear.
• Connector Type: 3.5mm Jack, 6.5 mm adapter.
• Noise Control: Sound Isolation.
• Maximum Input Power: 1,600 mW at 1 kHz.
• Cable: 10 ft straight cable and 4 ft coiled cable.
• Weight: 227 g.
• Item Dimensions: 10.04 x 7.72 x 3.66 inches.

Unfortunately, you can’t fold the TUNICAL Over-Ear Headphones into a more compact format. But they have 90-degree rotating earcups for one-ear monitoring.

The headphone is renowned for delivering distortion-free warm and natural sound.

Moreover, the design will help you to listen to what you want without any distractions.

The well-padded headphone is also stable enough to support your outdoor use. You can use it while walking, running, commuting, and doing other activities.

However, if you use it for an extended period, you can get a sweaty ear because of the over-ear design.

The headphone not only comes with two types of cable, but they are also long enough to provide you an excellent movability.

On top of that, they also provide a protective carrying pouch for safe storage. You may as well use it while traveling.

Altogether, this studio headphone is worth buying for everyday entertainment purposes.

Anyway, we have already discussed nine out of ten headphones on my list. It’s time to see what our last item comes along.

10. Excellent For The Price: Knox Gear TX-200 Open-Back Studio Reference Headphones

★★★

The Knox Gear TX-200 is one of the cheap studio headphones that is good for gaming. The open-back headphone is perfect for audio productions, gaming, and regular musical enjoyment.

Take a close look at the key specs.

Key Specification

• Connectivity Technology: Wired.
• Form Factor: Over-Ear.
• Adapter: ¼ inch.
• Weight: 453 g.
• Item Dimensions: 10.4 x 5 x 9.5 inches.

Indeed, these headphones cannot provide top rated service, same as the Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX or other high-end open-back headphones.

However, it’s expected for the price. In fact, they sound twice better than their cost.

The design is more breathable and allows a comfortable extended listening session.

For the neodymium magnets drivers, You will be able to hear crisp high as well as rich and deep bass.

Whether you need a headphone for your marathon gaming session or binge-watching a series, the TX-200 will always be there for you.

The elastic headband is adjustable with any head shape.

Besides, the soft and comfortable earmuffs provide a fatigue-free fit for all-day comfort.

You won’t have a sweaty ear while wearing this headphone.

Overall, it is one of the perfect monitor headphones for gaming and casual listening.

Well, we have finished reviewing my top 10 good studio headphones for gaming.

I have already mentioned my top recommendation.

However, if you are still confused, you can consider the best choices I am going to point out below.

Best Choices

According to my judgment, the following three headphones are more suitable for an immersive gaming experience.

1. SIVGA Phoenix 50MM Polycarbonate Film Zebrano Headphone
2. Beyerdynamic Dt 880 250 Ohm Pro
3. Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones

In my list, all headphones are equipped with excellent features. Their performance is also satisfactory.

So, make your decision without any delay and go for the best one.

Conclusion

In this review article, I have tried my best to answer the popular question: Are studio headphones good for gaming or not?

I hope now you know the answer.

Studio headphones are better than regular headsets in the case of gaming. And some studio headphones even surpass the quality of a gaming headset.

Here, I have listed the top rated studio headphones for gaming.

Hence, you can undoubtedly choose one of them for playing video games.

Frequently Asked Questions: