Key takeaways
- Keep volume at a comfortable level. Prolonged loud listening can harm hearing, and open-backs can tempt you to turn up the volume in noisy rooms.
- Do not use them where you need to hear traffic or alerts, such as outdoors.
- Clean pads according to the maker’s instructions and replace them when they flatten.
- Store them away from dust and moisture, because the open grille exposes the drivers.
- Be mindful of others nearby: sound leaks out, and a microphone may pick up room noise.
For most PC and console gamers who want open-back sound, the Drop + EPOS PC38X is the easiest all-in-one choice because it adds a microphone and runs without an amp, the Sennheiser HD 560S is the pick for competitive shooters who bring their own mic, the beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro suits those with an amp who like a lively treble, and the Sennheiser HD 600 suits listeners who also love music. The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X and Philips SHP9600 cover lighter budgets. Open-back designs leak sound and block no outside noise, so they suit quiet rooms. Details follow.
Our top picks
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Open-Back Gaming Headphones at a Glance
| Model | Best for | Stated or reported specs | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drop + EPOS PC38X | Open-back with a mic, no amp | Roundups report 28 ohm impedance and a good built-in microphone | Premium tier for a gaming headset |
| Sennheiser HD 560S | Competitive FPS, accuracy | Maker lists 120 ohm, 110 dB SPL, 6 Hz to 38,000 Hz, 280 g, detachable 1.8 m cable, velour pads | No mic; benefits from an amp or good DAC |
| beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro | Wide soundstage, value | Maker lists 96 dB, 5 to 35,000 Hz, 250 g without cable, 80 or 250 ohm versions, spring steel headband | Reviewers describe a V-shaped sound that can sound bright; 250 ohm model needs a capable amp |
| Sennheiser HD 600 | Clarity, music and games | Named best overall in audiophile-focused guides | High impedance; needs an amp; no mic |
| Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X | Consoles, light weight | Reported 235 g and 38 ohm | Open design leaks sound; mic required |
| Philips SHP9600 | Budget | One reviewer used it for a month of Valorant | Build is basic |
| ASUS ROG Kithara | Planar sound with built-in mic | Planar drivers with a built-in mic per a roundup | Premium tier |
| Sennheiser Game One | Semi-open headset with mic | Often described as semi-open rather than fully open | Older design |
Why Choose Open-Back for Gaming?
Open-back headphones let air and sound pass through the ear cups. Many gamers like the result: a wider, more natural soundstage that helps place footsteps and gunfire in a 3D space. They also feel less hot and fatiguing during long sessions. The compromise is simple. They offer almost no passive isolation, so you hear the room and others hear your game. Roundups caution that open-backs give zero noise isolation and leak sound, which matters in shared spaces or at night.
Key Features to Compare
Impedance and amplification
Impedance is measured in ohms and describes how hard a headphone is to drive. Low values like the PC38X’s reported 28 ohm and the AD700X’s 38 ohm work straight from a motherboard, console controller or phone. The HD 560S at 120 ohm and the DT 990 Pro in its 250 ohm version benefit from a dedicated headphone amp or a quality USB DAC. The beyerdynamic maker page lists both 80 ohm and 250 ohm versions, so read the version before buying. If you do not want extra gear, favor low-impedance models.
Sound signature
The HD 560S is described by reviewers as accurate and neutral, which helps positional accuracy in competitive games. The DT 990 Pro is often described as V-shaped with a lively treble and bass, which many find fun in action games but fatiguing for some. The HD 600 is praised for clarity. Preferences differ, so rely on your own taste where you can.
Microphone
Most audiophile open-backs have no microphone. Options include a clip-on or modular mic, a desk mic, or a headset like the PC38X or ROG Kithara with a built-in mic. Roundups note that open-back models without a mic usually need a separate one.
Comfort and weight
The HD 560S is listed at 280 g with angled drivers and velour pads. The DT 990 Pro is 250 g without cable per the maker. The ATH-AD700X is reported at 235 g. Lighter headphones reduce neck strain, while velour pads breathe better than leather. If you wear glasses, soft pads help avoid pressure.
Cable and connection
Most listed models use detachable cables with 3.5 mm plugs, and some include a 6.3 mm adapter. A detachable cable is easy to replace. Check whether your controller or PC needs a splitter or an adapter for a separate mic.
Durability and replacement parts
beyerdynamic notes replaceable components on the DT 990 Pro, and Sennheiser sells replacement pads. Pads wear before drivers do, so availability matters.
Console vs PC Setup
On PC, a USB DAC and amp or a sound card improves high-impedance models. On console, many controllers provide limited power, so low-impedance models like the ATH-AD700X or PC38X are simpler. A USB amp with chat mixing may be needed if you want party chat through the same headphones, so check compatibility with your console.
Budget Tiers
Budget
The Philips SHP9600 is called remarkable value in a roundup, and the ATH-AD700X offers a light, console-friendly open design. Expect a plainer build and the need for a separate mic.
Mid-range
The HD 560S, DT 990 Pro and PC38X occupy the middle, with the PC38X standing out for its mic and the other two for sound quality. Add the cost of an amp for the higher-impedance versions.
Premium
The HD 600, DT 1990 Pro MKII, HD 490 Pro, Meze 109 Pro and HD 800 S appear in premium lists. They can sound excellent, yet the gains in games are smaller than in music, and most need an amp.
Pick X If Decision Table
| If you… | Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Want one purchase with a mic | Drop + EPOS PC38X | Built-in mic, low impedance |
| Play competitive shooters with your own mic | Sennheiser HD 560S | Accurate positioning per reviewers |
| Enjoy lively treble and bass | beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro | Wide soundstage, V-shaped sound |
| Listen to music as much as you game | Sennheiser HD 600 | Clarity and build |
| Play on console without an amp | Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X | 38 ohm, light |
| Need to keep costs low | Philips SHP9600 | Value pick |
Use and Care Notes
- Keep volume at a comfortable level. Prolonged loud listening can harm hearing, and open-backs can tempt you to turn up the volume in noisy rooms.
- Do not use them where you need to hear traffic or alerts, such as outdoors.
- Clean pads according to the maker’s instructions and replace them when they flatten.
- Store them away from dust and moisture, because the open grille exposes the drivers.
- Be mindful of others nearby: sound leaks out, and a microphone may pick up room noise.
Alternatives
Closed-back gaming headset
Closed-back headsets isolate noise and include mics. They are a fit for noisy rooms or shared spaces, though the soundstage is narrower.
Semi-open headset
The Sennheiser Game One is often described as semi-open. It offers some openness with an included mic.
Open-back headphones plus a modular mic
Pairing HD 560S or DT 990 Pro with a clip-on or desk mic gives the best audio per cost, at the expense of more cables.
Positional Audio and Game Settings
Hardware helps, but game settings shape what you hear. Many competitive players turn off virtual surround processing and use plain stereo, because a well-tuned open-back already presents a wide image. Others like a mild spatial setting for certain titles. If you use a USB DAC or amp with its own equalizer, keep adjustments small. Large bass boosts hide footsteps, while heavy treble boosts tire the ears. Compressing dynamic range in the game audio menu can make quiet cues easier to hear without raising volume.
Room and Neighbor Considerations
An open-back headphone behaves like a small speaker pointing at the room. In a bedroom with a partner sleeping, or in a shared office, the leak can be a problem. Another effect is that outside sound reaches you: a loud fan, street traffic or a family conversation can mask quiet game cues. If your room is noisy, a closed-back model might serve better, and it is wise to think honestly about your usual environment before paying for an open design.
Voice chat adds another wrinkle. When your friends’ voices play through open-back cups, some sound can reach a nearby microphone and echo back. A directional mic placed close to your mouth, or a headset with noise suppression, reduces this. Push-to-talk also avoids the problem.
Long-Session Comfort
Open-back models are often chosen for comfort because they run cooler and exert less pressure, yet fit still decides the outcome. Check clamping force, pad depth and headband padding. Velour pads, as on the HD 560S, feel soft and breathable but collect dust and hair more easily than leather. Take short breaks, keep the volume moderate and consult a hearing professional if you notice ringing or muffled hearing after play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are open-back headphones good for gaming?
Many gamers like them for their wide soundstage and comfort. They leak sound and offer no isolation, so they suit quiet rooms.
Do I need an amp?
Not for low-impedance models like the PC38X or ATH-AD700X. The HD 560S at 120 ohm and the 250 ohm DT 990 Pro benefit from one.
Which has a built-in microphone?
Roundups mention the Drop + EPOS PC38X and ASUS ROG Kithara. Most others need a separate mic.
Is the DT 990 Pro or HD 560S better for shooters?
Reviewers pick the HD 560S for positional accuracy, while the DT 990 Pro offers a livelier sound and wide soundstage. Try both if you can.
Will people hear my game?
Yes, open-backs leak sound. Avoid them near sleeping family or in shared offices.
Can I use them on console?
Yes, especially low-impedance models. Check your controller’s output and mic options.
Write Your Review
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!