If you need a pair of headphones that offers an immersive sound experience, block out background noise, and prevent audio leakage, closed-back headphones might be an option to consider. Closed-back headphones have ear cups that are completely sealed off by a hard outer shell, enabling sound to be kept inside the headphones. This design has several advantages for gaming, such as:
- Enhancing the bass response and the impact of explosions, gunshots, and other sound effects.
- Reducing the distraction from ambient noise, especially in noisy environments or competitive settings.
- Protect your privacy and avoid disturbing others with your game audio.
However, not all closed-back headphones are created equal. Some may have poor sound quality, uncomfortable fit, or lackluster features. For this reason, there are a few factors you need to check out before buying a headphone.
Check out our article: Open-Back Vs Closed-Back Headphones!
How to choose the right closed-Back headphones for gaming
Here are some tips on how to choose the right closed-back headphones for gaming:
Consider your budget and preferences.
Closed-back headphones come in different price ranges and features, so you should look for the ones that suit your needs and expectations. For example, if you want wireless headphones, you might have to pay more than wired ones. If you want RGB lighting or high-resolution audio, you might have to look for specific models that offer those options.
Look for headphones with soft ear cups and a padded headband.
Having a comfortable pair of headphones is important if you intend to play for extended periods of time. Avoid choosing headphones that are too tight, heavy, or hot. When selecting a pair, make sure to find ones with breathable and cushioned materials that will provide a secure fit and be comfortable to wear.
Look for headphones with good sound quality and a microphone.
Sound quality is essential, and you want headphones that deliver clear, crisp, and immersive audio. You also want headphones that have a good microphone for in-game communication. Look for headphones that have noise-canceling or noise-reducing features, as well as adjustable volume and mute controls. You might also want to look for headphones that have surround sound or virtual surround sound modes, which can enhance your positional awareness and gaming experience.
Try listening to them first.
The best way to choose the right headphones is to try them out yourself. You might have different preferences and expectations than other users, so you should listen to how the headphones sound with your own ears. Try them out on gaming sounds, music, and movies, and see if you like the sound profile that they deliver. You might also want to test the microphone quality and the comfort level of the headphones.
The best closed-back headphones for gaming
To help you find the best closed-back headphones for gaming, we have reviewed and ranked the top 5 models based on special aspects like overall performance, audio quality, budget, etc., which are listed below.
- SteelSeries Arctis 7 – Best Overall
- Razer Kraken V3 Pro – Best Sound Quality
- Sennheiser Game Zero – Best Comfort fit
- HyperX Cloud Stinger – Best Budget
- Logitech G633 Artemis Spectrum – Best Feature-packed
1. SteelSeries Arctis 7
Best overall closed-back headphones for gaming
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 stands as a wireless gaming headset renowned for its superb sound quality, comfort, and adaptability. Compatible with various platforms like PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and Android devices, it also offers a wired mode using a 3.5mm cable. Its design incorporates a ski-goggle style elastic headband, dynamically adjusting to different head sizes while evenly distributing weight. Additionally, the ear cups are crafted from breathable fabric, ensuring cool and comfortable conditions during extended gaming sessions.
The Arctis 7 delivers remarkable sound quality, featuring a well-balanced and intricately detailed audio profile suited for a variety of gaming genres. To augment the directional sound and elevate the gaming immersion, the headset is compatible with SteelSeries Sonar, a software designed for this purpose. Furthermore, customization of sound settings is possible through the SteelSeries GG app, granting users control over EQ adjustments, sidetone, mic volume, and more. Additionally, the SteelSeries Arctis 7 boasts support for the latest DTS Headphone:X v2.0 surround sound, further enhancing directional audio for an immersive gaming experience. The SteelSeries GG app also provides insights into the headset’s battery level, which can endure approximately 24 hours on a single charge.
The microphone of the Arctis 7 is retractable and noise-canceling, which means it can filter out background noise and deliver clear voice communication. The mic may move a bit during intense gameplay, but it is not a major issue. The headset includes a mute button and a volume wheel on the left ear cup. It also features a chatmix dial on the right ear cup, allowing users to balance the game and chat audio.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 proves an excellent option for gamers seeking a versatile wireless headset with comprehensive capabilities. Its durability, comfort, versatility, and advanced software stand out. While lacking RGB lighting or extravagant features, it excels in crucial aspects: sound quality and overall performance.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Balanced and detailed sound quality
- Clear and noise-canceling microphone
- Sleek and sturdy design
- Comfortable and cool fit
- Impressive battery life
- Versatile connectivity
- DTS Headphone:X v2.0 surround sound
- Customizable sound settings, EQ, and surround sound modes
Cons:
- Expensive
- May have latency issues
What’s in the box?
- Steelseries Arctis 7 Headset
- Wireless Transmitter
- 4-pole 3.5mm cable
- Micro-USB Charging Cable
- Product information guide
2. Razer Kraken V3 Pro
Best overall sound quality
The Razer Kraken V3 Pro is a wireless gaming headset that combines comfort, performance, and customization. It stands as the top-tier model within the Kraken V3 series, boasting distinctive features that differentiate it from the other models.
A prominent highlight of the V3 Pro is its HyperSense haptic bass function, augmenting headset vibrations in sync with in-game sounds. This capability enhances immersion, particularly in fast-paced games, offering a more lifelike gaming encounter. Notably, this feature is customizable and can be regulated or deactivated using the Razer Synapse software.
The V3 Pro also delivers excellent sound quality, thanks to the Razer TriForce titanium 50mm drivers that produce clear and balanced sound across all frequencies. The headset also supports THX Spatial Audio, which simulates 7.1 surround sound and enhances the directional cues and spatial awareness in games. The sound can be further customized using the 10-band graphic EQ and presets in the Razer Synapse software.
The V3 Pro has a sleek and professional design, with a durable metal and plastic frame and soft memory foam ear cushions. Additionally, the headset is lightweight and designed for comfort, ensuring a pleasant experience even during extended gaming sessions. The boom mic is detachable and has a good overall performance, ensuring clear and accurate voice communication. The headset also has customizable RGB lighting on the ear cups, which can be synced with other Razer devices.
The V3 Pro has a long battery life of over 45 hours, and it can be used wirelessly with the USB dongle or wired with the 3.5mm cable. However, if you keep the RGB lighting and the HyperSense turned on, then you might only get 11-12 hours of use. The headset functions seamlessly with a broad array of devices, encompassing PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and mobile phones. However, the headset is quite pricey for the addition of wireless and haptic feedback, and some users may not find these features worth the extra cost. The headset also has some minor drawbacks, such as the cluttered left ear cup, the lack of breathability, and the inability to charge and use at the same time.
In summary, the Razer Kraken V3 Pro stands as an impressive gaming headset packed with numerous features and customization possibilities. It proves an ideal option for gamers seeking a wireless and haptic experience; however, for those less concerned with these specific features, it might not represent the most cost-effective choice.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight design
- Supports wired and wireless mode
- Good comfortable fit
- Has a HyperSense feature that adds vibrations to the headset according to the game sounds
- Has detachable mic
- Supports THX Spatial Audio, which simulates 7.1 surround sound
- Wide range of compatibility
- Really long battery life (without RGB & HyperSense)
Cons:
- Left earcup is too cluttered
- Cannot use HyperSense feature while charging
What’s in the box?
- Razer Kraken V3 Pro
- Detachable Razer™ HyperClear Supercardioid Mic
- Wireless USB dongle
- Type-C to Type-A charging cable
- 3.5 mm combo cable
- User Guide
3. Sennheiser Game Zero
Best closed-back gaming headphones with a comfortable fit
The Sennheiser Game Zero stands as a high-end gaming headset that excels in delivering exceptional sound quality, comfort, and noise isolation. Its design, characterized by a sleek matte black finish with red accents, is elegantly simple. The large, soft faux leather-padded earcups ensure a snug fit, effectively blocking external sounds. Additionally, the microphone, retractable and flexible, automatically mute upon flipping up. To enhance portability, the headset comes with a robust case.
As anticipated by Sennheiser, the Game Zero offers stellar sound performance. It produces a rich, balanced audio output, with clear highs and mids and commendable bass. The detailed and focused sound remains distortion-free, catering well to gaming needs by accentuating every sound direction and nuance. Conveniently, volume adjustment is easily managed through the earcup dial.
Compatible with various platforms like PC, Mac, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, and mobile devices via the 3.5mm jack cable, the Game Zero boasts versatility. However, the cable’s durability is a concern due to its perceived flimsiness. Notably, this headset lacks certain features found in other gaming headsets, including RGB lighting, wireless connectivity, or surround sound. Moreover, its pricing is relatively higher compared to alternative options in the market.
In summary, the Sennheiser Game Zero represents a dependable, feature-minimal yet high-quality headset, excelling in sound, comfort, and noise isolation. It suits gamers seeking exceptional audio performance and uncomplicated functionality over flashy features and aesthetic appeal.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Very comfortable and secure fit
- Foldable and compact design
- Great sound quality
- Retractable microphone with auto-mute function
- Removable cables
- Great noise isolation thanks to the closed-back design & tight seal in the earcups
Cons:
- Lacks features such as RGB lighting & surround sound
- The mic cannot be detached or removed
- The cables are not of good quality, so they may not last long
What’s in the box?
- Game Zero headset
- PC and gaming console cables
- Carry pouch
- A user guide
4. HyperX Cloud Stinger
Best Budget-friendly closed-back gaming headphone
The HyperX Cloud Stinger stands out as the go-to option for gamers seeking affordable yet high-quality closed-back headphones. These wired headphones offer a commendable and enjoyable sound experience, striking a balance with a punchy, warm bass, a clear and prominent mid-range, and a slightly toned-down and crisp treble. The audio quality delivers an engaging and immersive experience across various gaming genres.
One of the notable features of the Cloud Stinger is its swivel-to-mute microphone. While providing decent voice communication quality, it effectively reduces background noise, ensuring clear and uninterrupted conversations during gaming sessions. Additionally, the inclusion of a convenient volume slider on the right ear cup grants easy access to audio adjustments, enhancing user convenience.
Designed for simplicity and durability, the Cloud Stinger boasts a sturdy yet lightweight construction. It incorporates a reliable plastic frame, a robust steel slider, and memory foam ear cushions. These headphones not only ensure durability but also offer a comfortable and customizable fit, allowing gamers to indulge in extended gaming sessions without discomfort.
Adding to its practicality, the Cloud Stinger features a 90-degree rotating design, facilitating effortless resting of the headphones around the neck when not in use, adding to its convenience and portability.
The Cloud Stinger comes with vital add-ons, comprising a 3.5mm cable and a splitter, facilitating effortless connections to various devices like PCs, PS4s, Xbox Ones, Nintendo Switches, and mobile phones. Like other similar products, these headphones provide a plug-and-play feature, removing the requirement for extra software or drivers guaranteeing a trouble-free setup and operation.
In summary, the HyperX Cloud Stinger headphones serve as the ideal choice for budget-conscious gamers seeking a wired, straightforward, and enjoyable audio experience. Their affordability, coupled with a simple yet effective design and satisfying sound performance, make them a valuable companion for gamers aiming for an immersive and enjoyable gaming audio experience without breaking the bank.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Affordable
- Decent and fun sound quality
- Swivel-to-mute microphone
- Simple and sturdy design
- Comfortable and adjustable fit
- 90-degree rotating design
- Simple connectivity
- Plug-and-play and hassle-free
Cons:
- The microphone is not detachable or replaceable
- Lacks RGB lighting like other gaming headsets
What’s in the box?
- HyperX Cloud Stinger headset
- PC Extension Cable
- Quick Start Guide
5. Logitech G633 Artemis Spectrum
Best Feature packed closed-back gaming headphone
The Logitech G633 Artemis Spectrum represents a versatile gaming headset boasting a wide array of features alongside impressive sound quality. Its compatibility extends across PC, console, and mobile devices, showcasing a sleek design complemented by customizable RGB lighting effects.
Ensuring a comfortable fit, the headset features spacious ear cups and a padded headband. These ear cups offer swiveling capabilities and host various buttons for volume control, mic muting, sound mode switching, and activation of programmable macros. This headset includes two detachable cables: a USB cable for PC usage and a 3.5mm audio cable for other devices. The USB connection allows access to Logitech software, enabling users to fine-tune sound settings, create personalized profiles, and synchronize lighting effects with other Logitech devices.
In terms of sound performance, the G633 excels, particularly within its surround sound modes. Supporting both Dolby and DTS Headphone:X surround sound, it crafts a realistic, immersive gaming audio environment. The sound reproduction is clear and detailed, offering well-balanced separation and impressive bass without overpowering, accompanied by crisp highs devoid of harshness. Notably, it performs admirably across various music genres and movie styles.
The microphone quality is also noteworthy, featuring noise-canceling capabilities that effectively filter background noise. Flexible and foldable when not in use, the mic delivers clear and natural voice chat without distortion or feedback. Moreover, the headset incorporates a secondary mic on the audio cable, which is useful for phone calls or mobile gaming.
Overall, the Logitech G633 Artemis Spectrum stands as a commendable gaming headset blending functionality with aesthetics. Its wealth of features and exceptional sound quality enhances the gaming experience while providing comfort and durability across multiple device usage. However, it’s worth noting its limited portability and occasional software bugs, though these do not significantly impact the headset’s overall performance.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Extensively customizable through Logitech software and configurable buttons
- Impressive sound performance suitable for gaming and music, featuring Dolby and DTS Headphone:X surround sound options
- Compatibility across PC, console, and mobile platforms using USB and 3.5mm cables
- Comfortably snug fit with generously sized ear cups and a cushioned headband
- Sophisticated design accentuated by customizable RGB lighting effects
- Outstanding microphone quality equipped with noise-canceling capability and a collapsible design
Cons:
- Comparatively pricey
- Takes time to get used to the software
What’s in the box?
- Logitech G633 Artemis Spectrum headset
- PC cable (USB to Micro-USB, 3m)
- 3.5mm cable (1.5m)
- Removable backlit custom tags
Table of the best closed-back gaming headphones
| Model | Driver Size | Frequency Response | Impedance | Sensitivity | Microphone Type | Connection Type | Weight |
| SteelSeries Arctis 7 | 40 mm | 20 Hz – 20 kHz | 32 Ω | 98 dB | Bidirectional | Wireless or Wired | 372 g |
| Razer Kraken V3 Pro | 50 mm | 20 Hz – 20 kHz | 32 Ω | 96 dB | Supercardioid | Wireless or Wired | 372 g |
| Sennheiser Game Zero | 35 mm | 15 Hz – 28 kHz | 50 Ω | 108 dB | Noise-cancelling | Wired | 300 g |
| HyperX Cloud Stinger | 50 mm | 18 Hz – 23 kHz | 30 Ω | 102 dB | Noise-cancelling | Wired | 275 g |
| Logitech G633 Artemis Spectrum | 40 mm | 20 Hz – 20 kHz | 32 Ω | 107 dB | Condenser-Cardioid | Wired | 374 g |
Conclusion
Closed-back headphones are a great choice for gaming, as they offer immersive sound quality, noise isolation, and privacy. However, you need to consider several factors, such as sound quality, comfort, durability, features, and value, when choosing the best closed-back headphones for gaming. We hope that our review and ranking of the top 5 models have helped you find the best closed-back headphones for gaming that suit your needs and preferences. Happy gaming!
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