If you have been looking for a new audio accessory in the market for gaming, you might be wondering what to pick – gaming earphones or headphones. Both offer a varied set of advantages but the options often make the decision quite difficult. However, we’re here to help you choose your next headphone or gaming bud – keep reading to find out!
The root cause of the problem
The last two generations of consoles have seen a significant increase in the availability of compatible headphones and earphones – and what’s surprising is moreover, there has been an increase in connectivity options, surround sound tech, and also a large amount of drivers that have led to a thriving market filled with impressive PS5 headphones, Xbox Series X headphones, and Nintendo Switch headphones. Even the previous generation’s PS4 headphones and Xbox One headphones still work well with the current systems in the market.
This has created a choice paradox for the customers in the market – which as a result has made choosing between a gaming headphone and gaming earphones more complicated than ever.
But do not worry! Keep reading, as we dive into all the important details to help you make a decision – quickly.
But, what is a headphone?
Beginning with the functionality, the main difference in design between a headphone and earphones lies in how they fit on your head and in your ears. A gaming headphone typically covers your entire head, with each of the ear cups enveloping your ears. Au contraire, gaming earphones sit snugly inside your ears, often designed with ergonomics in mind and featuring various tips to ensure a secure fit.
While both can be very comfortable, this is a highly personal and subjective matter – everyone’s ears are different. However, it’s reasonable to say that the extra cushioning, weight distribution, and overall design of a gaming headphone generally provide more comfort.
But then, what is an earphone?
Gaming earphones rely more on how well they fit your ears. The compact design of earphones is less obstructive to the ear canal, making them a great option for someone who streams and prefers not to have bulky gaming gear obstructing their face or presentation. This compactness also means that earphones are much more portable than gaming headphones, whether stored in small carrying pouches or neat charging cases.
Both headphones and earphones can be found in wired or wireless versions, so there’s no clear distinction in that regard. Typically, wired versions of both are more budget-friendly, which might be a consideration for those watching their spending.
When it comes to features, the two types are often quite comparable these days. While headphones have more room for features due to their size and the ability to include buttons and controls, modern gaming earphones also provide a range of audio capabilities.
What adds value to the actual headphones or earphones?
One key distinguisher in the market is the companion apps and the value addition they bring to the actual hardware – since a lot of the mid-range to premium options on both the earphones and headphones’ sides – are customizable and have a fair amount of flexibility with equalizer tweaking and personalization.
But do remember that gaming headphones usually have better microphone quality due to their head-centric design – which means that even though the built-in mics in earphones are decent they don’t match the quality of boom mics, which are only available in a few earphone models.
One more thing to consider while making the decision is to figure out which devices’ controls are easier – usually the headphones win here due to the larger space for buttons and dials.
Wired earphones might offer in-line controls on the cable, whereas wireless earphones typically have tiny buttons or touch controls that users need to remember.
Gaming headphones vs gaming earphones – Price & Value
Here’s where things get complicated, since both markets are brimming with options, and there are only so many reasonable choices available across the budget-friendly, mid-tier, and high-end categories for both headphones and earphones.
Generally speaking, earphones are often more affordable especially due to their form factor and positioning to be available for a wider audience where prices for gaming headphones can soar. For example, a premium pair of earphones like the Sony Inzone Buds or Sony PlayStation Pulse Explore costs around $200, while top-of-the-line gaming headphones such as the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless or the Astro A50 can exceed $300!
At the lower end of the prices, the contrast only increases. Our key advice is to take some time to consider the various aspects and features we’ve discussed. These should help your spending to align with your specific needs. Once you know which device you need, making decisions about your budget will be much simpler
Finally, some thoughts on – Gaming headphones vs gaming earphones
More often than not, there are significant differences between these two audio devices, along with compelling reasons to choose either one of the options. This solely depends on your budget, and depending on whether it’s on the higher end of the spectrum, there’s also a strong case for using both in your setup, especially if your game is across multiple platforms.
Looking back at our experience and usage patterns, we strongly recommend both types of devices and many of our team members use both in their setups. However, if your main priority is achieving high-quality sound, clarity, and precision, we recommend purchasing a headphone, since the larger drivers and additional features would enhance your audio experience.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more portable and potentially more budget-friendly, gaming earphones are an excellent option!
If you have made up your mind on what to purchase but are still looking for more such guides, keep watching this space at Talkesport!
