The 6 Best Open Back Headphones for Gaming 2021 – Buyer’s Guide

Best Open-Back Headphones for Gaming

Open back headphones are widely loved by gamers for multiple reasons. They make you feel like you’re surrounded by the sound, thus making you feel like you’re in the game itself rather than watching through a screen.

On top of that, they also provide the gamer with comfort and cool ears even after extended hours of gaming. They’re much more comfortable on the ear than regular headphones, especially during hot summer days.

Also, they allow sound to leak in, so you’d be able to hear if something is happening around you.

Open back headphones are perfect for gaming. However, not all open back headphones are the same, which makes choosing the perfect one for your setup a little tricky.

You’ll find yourself wondering what’s the best impedance for you, what a pair’s sensitivity indicates, and whether the earpads are replaceable or not. Well, all that and more will be answered throughout the article.

So, without further delay, here are my top picks for the best open back headphones for gaming on the market and why I’ve included them on this list.

Our Top Picks:

Model Impedance Sensitivity Frequency Response
Philips Audio Fidelio X2HR 30 ohm 100 dB 5-40,000 Hz
Philips Audio SHP9500 32 ohm 101 dB 12-35,000 Hz
Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 or 250 ohm 96 dB 5-35,000 Hz
Samson Technologies SR850 32 ohm 98 dB 10-30,000 Hz
Sennheiser HD 599 50 ohm 106 dB 12-38,500 Hz
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X 38 ohm 100 dB 5-30,000 Hz

The 6 Best Open Back Headphones for Gaming in 2021

Throughout the following section, I’ll go over my top picks for the best open back headphones for gaming with their pros, cons, and everything you might need to know.

So, without further delay, let’s jump right in.

1. Philips Audio Fidelio X2HR — Best Overall

Philips Audio Fidelio X2HR

The best open back headphones for gaming is, without a doubt, the Philips Audio Fidelio X2HR. The headphones come at a very reasonable price point, especially considering how high-quality the pair is. This X2HR is guaranteed to last for years without suffering a scratch.

The lightweight pair has a self-adjusting hammock that has 3D mesh and an outer leather headband that is both modern and comfortable.

In order to further ensure your comfort, the X2HR has memory foam earpads that are comfortable on the ear, and it’s breathable enough to prevent hotness or sweat even after extended hours of gaming.

Not to mention, the earpads are also replaceable, meaning you can easily change them if they get damaged without having to replace the entire headphones set.

The wired pair comes with a 3-meter detachable oxygen-free cable with a 5mm to 3mm adapter. Such length is perfect for gamers who use VR sets or if you just like being comfortable in your seat without being restricted by a wire.

The pair comes with a high-resolution audio certified frequency response that ranges from 5 to 40,000 Hz. The pair’s wide frequency response range is perfect for any game because the low frequencies are better for explosive or bass-like sounds, while the middle and high ones are necessary for FPS games.

Moreover, the pair comes with 100dB of sensitivity and 30 ohms of impedance, meaning you wouldn’t need an amp to get a clear sound. They can even be driven by your controller.

The X2HR comes with a 50 mm driver with a neodymium magnet and Layered Motion Control diaphragm that ensure the best sound quality possible, especially with the headphones’ low impedance and high sensitivity.

Unfortunately, though, the X2HR doesn’t come with a mic, so you’d have to purchase and use a separate one.

Pros:

  • High-resolution sound
  • Comfortable
  • Excellent soundstage
  • High durability
  • Low impedance
  • 3-meter detachable cord
  • Great frequency response range

Cons:

  • Not the best bass sound

Final Verdict

Whatever kind of games you prefer, the Philips Audio Fidelio X2HR is an excellent choice. The pair’s high-resolution audio and low impedance make for seamless gameplay that’ll allow you to experience every sound possible. Not to mention, the pair is incredibly comfortable on the ear, especially with its memory foam earpads.

2. Philips Audio SHP9500 — Runner-up

Philips Audio SHP9500

Philips Audio must be something right because the SHP9500 is yet another great pair of open back headphones for gaming. In addition to the model’s excellent specifications, it comes with a Hi-Fi sound at a very affordable price point.

To ensure your comfort throughout long hours of gaming, the pair SHP9500 comes with a double-layered headband cushion that is comfortable on your head, especially with the pair’s weightlessness.

The pair also comes with breathable ear cushions, making it a lot more comfortable for gamers, especially during hot weather. Sadly, though, the earpads are non-replaceable.

The SHP9500 comes with a Hi-Fi sound, a high-quality sound that has no distortion or noise. That sound is a massive advantage if you’ll be playing games that have bass sounds, like explosions, because you wouldn’t get any unnecessary noise.

When it comes to technical specifications, the pair comes with 32 ohms of impedance; your controller or PC can operate them without the need for an amp. Moreover, it has a sensitivity of 101 dB that guarantees clear sound at all times.

It also has a frequency response range starting from 12 to 35,000 Hz. Even though that’s not the most inclusive range out there, you’ll still get pretty good bass as well as treble sounds with no issues whatsoever.

A letdown of the SHP9500 is that it comes with a 1.5-meter detachable cord, which could be too short for some setups, especially if you’ll be gaming with a VR set. Such length could be a considerable restriction.

Unfortunately, the pair has another letdown which is that it doesn’t come with a microphone.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Hi-Fi sound
  • Comfortable on the head
  • Low impedance
  • Lightweight
  • Detachable cord

Cons:

  • Non-replaceable earpads
  • Ony 1.5m cord

Final Verdict

The Philips Audio SHP9500 is one excellent pair of headphones for multiple reasons. Firstly, the headband is double-layered, and the earpads are breathable so you’d be able to wear your headphones for hours. Also, the pair has low impedance and high sensitivity for the best gameplay possible.

Find Philips Audio SHP9500 featured in:

3. Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO — Best Value

Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO

Even though the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO comes at a relatively high price, it’s worth every penny. The pair comes with high-quality components, resulting in a high-quality sound that is perfect for any gamer.

The DT 990 PRO is one of the most comfortable headphones on the market with its weightlessness and adjustable padded headband.

Also, the pair comes with adjustable and replaceable earpads that are soft and comfortable on the ear.

Moreover, the pair has a single-sided cable that is 3 meters in length with a 3.5 mm connector and a 6.3 mm adapter for the most convenient design possible. Unfortunately, the cable is coiled, meaning it doesn’t really stretch if you pull on it.

The DT 990 PRO comes with two impedance configurations: 80 ohms or 250 ohms. Choosing between them mostly depends on your setup and what device will be driving your headphones. Nonetheless, you’d most likely need an amp for either configuration you decide to go for.

It also has 96 dB of sensitivity, a bit lower than average but still sensitive enough for a seamless gaming experience.

Furthermore, it has a frequency response ranging from 5 to 35,000 Hz, one of the best ranges on this list.

The pair comes with a 45 mm driver, also a little lower than average for over-ear headphones. Nonetheless, the frequency response range and sensitivity make up for it.

Sadly, if you’re looking for a pair with a built-in microphone, this is not the one for you.

Pros:

  • Excellent sound quality
  • Great value for the money
  • Comfortable
  • Lightweight
  • Two configurations of impedance
  • High durability

Cons:

  • Non-detachable cable
  • Coiled cable

Final Verdict

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO has it all from comfortable earpads to excellent sound quality and everything in between. On top of that, it has two impedance configurations: 80 and 250 ohm that you can choose from based on your setup. Such features and quality are worth a lot more than the pair’s actual price.

4. Samson Technologies SR850 — Best Semi-open Headphones

Samson Technologies SR850

The Samson Technologies SR850 is a semi-open pair of headphones, meaning it has the best of both worlds. It has a wide soundstage sound that is perfect for any game in addition to an excellent bass response that most open back headphones lack.

The pair is one of the most comfortable open back headphones on the market, especially with its self-adjusting headband, so you wouldn’t need to worry about having to readjust it every few minutes.

Not to mention, it comes with soft velour earpads for increased comfort. However, they are non-replaceable, and they’re a little too stiff at first, so keep that in mind.

In addition to being extremely comfortable, the SR850 offers an excellent sound quality that is hard to beat, especially at such price.

It comes with 32 ohms of impedance; it can easily be driven by your controller without the need for an amp. Also, its 98 dB of sensitivity is quite standard for open back headphones.

Moreover, its frequency response starts at 10 up to 30,000, not the best range out there to be completely fair.. Nonetheless, the sound quality is still excellent because it depends on the sensitivity as well as the impedance.

The pair has a 2.5-meter non-detachable cord. It also has a 3.5 mm connector and a 6.3 mm adapter so that it can fit any setup.

Lastly, like every product so far, this pair doesn’t come with a mic, so you’d have to purchase a separate one if you’ll be talking to other players while in-game.

Pros:

  • Semi-open design
  • Affordable
  • Great soundstage
  • Excellent sound quality
  • Lightweight
  • Low impedance

Cons:

  • Non-replaceable earpads
  • Mediocre best build quality
  • Non-detachable cord

Final Verdict

Being semi-open headphones, the Samson Technologies SR850 has everything you need in an open-back pair and then some. Its self-adjusting headband provides the pair with unmatched comfort. Also, its superior sound quality makes for seamless gameplay.

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5. Sennheiser HD 599 — Most Comfortable Headphones

Sennheiser HD 599

Not only does the Sennheiser HD 599 have high-quality components, but it’s also one of the most comfortable open back headphones on the market. It is perfect for gamers who like to spend hours upon hours gaming without experiencing any fatigue or hotness.

Being open-back, the pair is quite airy, making them perfect for long hours of gaming. On top of that, the pair is also lightweight with a padded headband for preventing any fatigue.

Also, the cushioned earpads are soft on the ear, and they’re replaceable in case they get damaged, you can easily change them without having to throw away the entire pair.

Moreover, the pair comes with two cables: a 3-meter one with a 6.3 mm connector and a 1.2-meter one with a 3.5 mm connector. Sadly, the 1.2-meter one could be a little too short for most people. However, you can use the longer cable with an adaptor if the length is a dealbreaker.

The pair comes with 50 ohms of impedance, a little higher than average, which means you’d need an amp. Nonetheless, a small amp could get the job done; you wouldn’t need a fancy one.

For sensitivity, the pair comes with 106 dB that is quite high for a pair of gaming headphones, meaning you wouldn’t have to worry about their volume being too low for gaming.

Furthermore, the pair’s frequency response ranges from 12 to 38,500 Hz, which is almost a high-resolution sound but not quite there.

With Sennheiser’s Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement design, you’re guaranteed a high-quality sound at all times.

Lastly, the pair doesn’t come with a built-in microphone; you’d have to use a separate one.

Pros:

  • Comfortable
  • High-quality sound
  • High sensitivity
  • Lightweight
  • High-quality components
  • Comes with two cords

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • A little weak

Final Verdict

If you’re willing to spend a few extra dollars to guarantee your comfort through extended hours of gaming, the Sennheiser HD 599 is the one for you. The pair comes with a padded headband and soft cushioned earpads for the most comfortable wear possible.

6. Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X — Best for FPS Games

Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X

First-person Shooter games require a pair of headphones with good middle and treble frequency response so you’d be able to identify exactly where the sound of footsteps or bullets is coming from. For that, the Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X is your best bet.

First of all, the pair comes with a self-adjusting 3D Wing Support that ensures your comfort without causing any pressure on your head or ears, especially with the raised-fabric earpads. If you’re looking to play FPS games all day long without any fatigue, the ATH-AD700X is your next best friend.

In addition to comfort, the pair offers great sound quality with its Bobbin-Wound CCAW voice coils. You’re guaranteed an impressive listening experience at all times.

The pair comes with a tangle-free cord that’s 3 meters in length that has a 3.5 mm connector and comes with a 6.3 mm adapter.

For convenience, the pair comes with 36 ohms of impedance that can be driven by your controller, so you don’t need to worry about getting an amp.

It also comes with 100 dB of sensitivity, which is the most common sensitivity in headphones; it’s perfect for FPS gaming without being too loud or too quiet.

In order to ensure great sound in mids, the frequencies you need most in FPS games, the pair comes with a frequency response range starting from 5 all the way up to 30,000, so you’ll also be getting a decent bass sound.

Even though the pair is on the heavier side, you wouldn’t really feel its weight with its 3D Wing Support system that reduces pressure on your head and ears.

Lastly, the ATH-AD700X doesn’t have a built-in mic, unfortunately.

Pros:

  • Reasonable price point
  • Low impedance
  • Excellent mids sound
  • Comfortable

Cons:

  • Weak cable

Final Verdict

FPS games are one of the most exciting types of games, for that you’d need a pair of headphones that can fully immerse you in the game. The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X is the one you’re looking for. In addition to its 3D Wing Support that ensures your comfort, its sound quality is quite unmatched.

How to Pick Best Open Back Headphones for Gaming

Before committing to a pair of open back headphones, you need to take a look at the following factors to make sure you’re getting the best model possible for your needs.

Open-Back vs Closed-Back

Before going any further, you need to make sure that open back headphones are your best choice. Open-back and closed-back headphones are completely different, and each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. However, they’re both suitable for gaming; it just depends on personal preference.

As for open back headphones, they provide a great soundstage, which is perfect for gaming because it truly immerses you in the game itself.

Also, they’re great at keeping your ears cool even through long days of gaming, so they’re more comfortable if you’ll be spending extended hours wearing your headphones.

However, open back headphones are known for leaking sound in and out. If you are playing in a shared room, anyone beside you will clearly hear what you’re listening to.

Sensitivity

A headphone’s sensitivity is measured in dB, and it’s a measuring unit of how loud your sound will be at a given power input.

Generally, most headphones are around 100db. Higher sensitivities indicate that the headphone’s sound will be louder.

However, keep in mind that sensitivity is not the only factor that determines loudness; impedance also plays a huge role, which takes us to the next point.

Impedance

Impedance is the resistance to an alternating current. In simpler words, it’s a measurement of whether or not your headphones will need an amplifier.

Always make sure you’re providing your headphones with suitable power so you’d get the best sound quality.

If you’re new to gaming or you’re not willing to spend money on an amplifier yet, you should go for one with low impedance so it can easily operate on your phone or controller’s power.

However, keep in mind that higher impedance probably means the pair is more capable of producing higher-quality sounds, and sometimes that’s worth the investment.

Headband and Earpads

If you’re looking for headphones for gaming, you’ll probably be wearing them for extended periods; that’s why comfort is a significant factor that you need to consider before purchasing a pair of headphones.

Always make sure the headband is self-adjustable or at least adjustable because all heads are different in sizes and shapes, there’s no one-fits-all pair of headphones.

Also, it’s better when the earpads are replaceable so that if they get damaged, you can easily replace them without having to throw away the whole headset.

Built-in Microphone

Even though having a built-in microphone is not necessary, it’s still more convenient for beginners who are looking to expand their gaming setup without spending a fortune.

If you don’t have a separate microphone, I strongly recommend looking for a pair with a built-in microphone, especially if you’ll be gaming in a team and you need to communicate with other players.

Wired vs. Wireless

It’s a rule of thumb that wired headphones deliver a better sound quality. However, there are more factors that go into determining whether the quality is good or bad beyond the cord.

Wired headphones are more common when it comes to choosing a pair for gaming because they deliver a higher quality sound at a lower price point than wireless ones do.

On the other hand, if you’ll be gaming in VR, it’s better to go for a wireless pair or a pair with a long tangle-free cord to avoid any inconvenience or restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are Open Back Headphones Good for Gaming?

Definitely! Open back headphones are perfect for gaming because they can truly immerse you in the game itself. You’ll feel like you’re right there in the game rather than watching through a monitor because their open-back nature can really bring the sound to life.

Are Open Back Headphones Noise Cancelling?

No. Open back headphones are the exact opposite of noise-cancelling ones because their main concept is to make you feel like the sound is all around you, rather than in your head. That usually leads to sound leakage in and out of the headphones.

Can You Use Regular Headphones for Gaming?

Yes, you can. Even though gaming headphones provide clearer mids that are necessary for gaming, regular headphones can totally get the job done.

Final Thoughts 

You should know by now why it’s challenging to find a good pair of open back headphones for gaming. However, you should also know what features you should be looking for in your next pair.

Over the course of this article, I’ve gone over my top six picks for the best open back headphones for gaming with everything you need to know about each product. Right now, you’re in for a treat with a quick recap of my top three picks.

Firstly, the Philips Audio Fidelio X2HR is an excellent choice for any gamer. In addition to its reasonable price point and comfortable replaceable earpad, the pair has high-resolution audio that’ll bring your gaming experience to a whole new level.

Following closely behind, the Philips Audio SHP9500 is yet another comfortable pair of headphones. It comes with a Hi-Fi sound that is any gamer’s dream. Moreover, the pair comes at a very affordable price point despite its high-quality components.

Lastly, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO has the best value for the money. In addition to its high-quality components and high durability, the pair comes with two impedance configurations: 80 and 250 ohms, so you can choose whichever you prefer.

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