Envision yourself stepping into a vast, open-world game, the sound of distant footsteps growing louder as an enemy approaches.
The rustling leaves, the subtle hum of an approaching storm—it all feels lifelike, pulling you deeper into the action.
Now, imagine experiencing this level of audio detail with crystal clarity and expansive soundscapes.
That’s the magic of open back headphones.
Unlike their closed-back counterparts, these headphones offer a natural, wide soundstage, making every in-game moment feel like it’s happening around you, not just in your ears.
In this article, we’ve rounded up the best open back headphones for gaming designed to deliver the most best gaming experience.
Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore enthusiast, these picks will enhance your gameplay, letting you hear—and feel—every detail of your virtual adventures.
The Quick List
Here’s a roundup of the best Open back headphones for Gaming:
- Best Open-Back Headset: Sennheiser GSP 500
- Premium Open-Back Headset: Audeze LCD-GX
- Mid-Tier Open-back Headset: Philips SHP9600
- Best Open-Back Headset Under $200: Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X
- Best Open-Back Headset Under $100: Astro A40 Tr
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Overall Best
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Best Under $200
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Best Under $100
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$899.00
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$119.72
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Top Picks for Best Open Back Headphones For Gaming
If you’re a gamer who values crystal-clear audio precision and all-day comfort, the Sennheiser GSP 500 is a solid contender.
This open-back design delivers a stunningly wide soundstage, perfect for immersive gaming.
However, its bulkier build might make it less appealing to those who prioritize portability or sleek aesthetics.
It’s a choice for the purist, uncompromising in sound quality but a bit divisive in design.
Key Features
Aesthetic
Bass
The GSP 500 Pro delivers a balanced bass response that is deep quality sound without overwhelming the mid and high frequencies.
It is designed to enhance realism in gameplay, offering punchy low-end effects for explosions, footsteps, or engine roars while maintaining clarity.
Unlike overly bass-heavy gaming headsets, the GSP 500 Pro provides a controlled bass that complements a wide range of audio content, including music and cinematic experiences.
Microphone
Equipped with a broadcast-quality noise-canceling microphone, the GSP 500 Pro ensures crystal-clear voice communication.
The microphone is mounted on a flexible boom arm that allows for precise positioning and can be muted simply by raising the arm.
Its high sensitivity ensures that your voice is captured with natural clarity while minimizing background noise.
Platform Compatibility
a wide range of platforms including PCs, consoles (such as PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch), and mobile devices.
standard 3.5mm jack
split cables may be required for some PC setups with separate mic and audio inputs.
Sound Quality & Controls
The GSP 500 Pro delivers high-fidelity sound, thanks to Sennheiser’s proprietary audio drivers.
The open-back design provides a wide and natural soundstage, making it perfect for gaming and audiophile-grade music listening.
You can expect exceptional clarity across the frequency spectrum, with precise imaging and accurate directional audio crucial for competitive play.
The headset also features a volume control dial integrated into the ear cup, allowing for on-the-fly adjustments without disrupting gameplay.
Bonus Features
- Durable Build: Constructed with high-quality materials to withstand rigorous daily use.
- Replaceable Parts: The ear pads and headband padding are replaceable, prolonging the life of the headset.
- Customizable Fit: The headset features adjustable headbands and dual-axis hinge systems for a snug and personalized fit.
- Plug-and-Play Functionality: Requires no drivers or software for setup, making it convenient and user-friendly.
Premium Open-Back Headphones for Serious Gamers
For audiophiles who game, the Audeze LCD-GX is in a league of its own. Professional wise this is the best open back headphones for gaming, but not very cost effective for the average buyer.
Combining planar magnetic drivers with a sleek yet luxurious design, it offers unrivaled sound fidelity that bridges gaming and professional audio.
However, its steep price tag and lack of onboard features like surround sound may limit its appeal to only the most serious enthusiasts.
It’s the crown jewel of gaming headsets for those who can afford it.
Key Features
Aesthetic
Bass
The LCD-GX delivers deep, accurate bass that is incredibly well-controlled, thanks to its planar magnetic technology.
It doesn’t exaggerate the low frequencies but instead reproduces them with precision and depth, offering a natural and immersive listening experience.
Gamers will appreciate the nuanced low-end, which enhances explosions and environmental effects without muddying dialogue or other audio elements.
Audiophiles will also enjoy the LCD-GX’s ability to render bass-rich music genres like electronic and hip-hop with remarkable clarity.
Microphone
The LCD-GX comes equipped with a detachable, broadcast-quality boom microphone, making it ideal for gaming, streaming, and professional communication.
The microphone captures clear, natural voice tones with minimal distortion, ensuring your voice sounds precise and professional.
Its unidirectional pickup pattern effectively reduces ambient noise, focusing on your voice.
The flexible boom arm allows for easy positioning, and its detachable nature means you can swap it out when not needed, making the headset versatile for various applications.
Platform Compatibility
The Audeze LCD-GX offers broad compatibility across platforms, including PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices.
The headset uses a standard 3.5mm connector
Additionally, the LCD-GX includes a splitter cable for separate headphone and microphone connections.
Sound Quality & Controls
Sound quality is where the LCD-GX truly shines. Its planar magnetic drivers provide an unparalleled audio experience, characterized by extreme detail, wide soundstage, and exceptional imaging.
The mids and highs are crystal-clear, while the bass remains tight and impactful, offering a balanced sound signature perfect for both gamers and audiophiles.
The LCD-GX does not have built-in controls for volume or muting.
Bonus Features
- Premium Build Materials: Constructed from lightweight magnesium and high-quality padding, ensuring durability and comfort.
- Detachable Mic and Cables: Versatility for gaming and casual listening, with interchangeable parts for extended longevity.
- Low Impedance: Despite its audiophile-grade performance, the LCD-GX is optimized for use with standard devices without requiring an external amplifier.
Mid-Tier Open-Back Headphones for Great Gaming Sound
The Philips SHP9600 stands out as a premium choice for those seeking open-back headphones that deliver incredible detail and comfort.
With their expansive soundstage and crystal-clear audio, these headphones are perfect for immersive music sessions or as a gaming headset for players who want to hear every subtle cue.
Offering a balance of affordability and performance, the SHP9600 is a strong contender for anyone searching for the best open-back headphones for gaming or general use.
Key Features
Aesthetic
Bass
Deep and accurate, with a natural balance that complements a wide range of music genres, offering warmth without overpowering the mids or highs.
Microphone
Detachable boom mic (when paired with an external mic accessory) provides clear voice capture for gaming and calls, ideal for versatile use.
Platform Compatibility
Works seamlessly with PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, mobile devices and audio devices with a 3.5mm jack for universal usability.
Sound Quality & Controls
Open-back design delivers a spacious soundstage with crisp highs and rich mids. No onboard controls, keeping the design simple and focused on pure sound.
Bonus Features
- Premium build with a steel-reinforced headband for durability.
- Comfortable ear cushions for extended listening sessions.
- Includes a 1.8m detachable cable for added convenience and flexibility.
Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200
For unparalleled clarity and a natural listening experience, the Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X is a top-tier option among open-back headphones.
Its lightweight design and wide soundstage make it ideal for long listening sessions or as an open-back gaming headset for competitive players who need precise audio positioning.
Whether you’re gaming, watching movies, or enjoying music, these headphones bring every detail to life with exceptional fidelity.
Key Features
Aesthetic
Bass
Tight and precise, more focused on clarity than overpowering depth, making it perfect for balanced listening and competitive gaming.
Microphone
Lacks a built-in microphone, so a standalone or mod mic is required for communication.
Platform Compatibility
3.5mm audio jack.
It is fully compatible with PCs, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices, making it a versatile choice for gamers on multiple platforms.
Sound Quality & Controls
Open-back design creates a wide, immersive soundstage with exceptional detail and airy highs. No built-in controls keep the focus on pure audio.
Bonus Features
- Featherlight build and soft earpads for superior comfort during long sessions.
- Self-adjusting headband ensures a perfect fit.
- Designed for audiophiles, gamers, and movie enthusiasts who value spatial accuracy.
Best Open-Back Headphones Under $100
The Astro A40 TR is a veteran in the gaming headset arena, boasting modular customization and superb audio for competitive play.
It thrives in versatility, with an optional MixAmp Pro for serious audio tweaking. However, its wired design and dated aesthetics might feel like a step back in an increasingly wireless market.
This is a no-nonsense headset for gamers who value performance over flash.
Key Features
Aesthetic
Bass
The A40 TR delivers a well-balanced bass response that enhances gaming experiences without overpowering the mids and highs.
Explosions, gunfire, and low-frequency effects are impactful and immersive, offering depth and power in action-packed games.
The bass is tight and controlled, ensuring clarity and avoiding muddiness, which also makes it suitable for music and movies.
When paired with the Astro MixAmp Pro TR, users can fine-tune the EQ settings for even greater control over bass and overall sound preferences.
Bass
The A40 TR delivers a well-balanced bass response that enhances gaming experiences without overpowering the mids and highs.
Explosions, gunfire, and low-frequency effects are impactful and immersive, offering depth and power in action-packed games.
The bass is tight and controlled, ensuring clarity and avoiding muddiness, which also makes it suitable for music and movies.
When paired with the Astro MixAmp Pro TR, users can fine-tune the EQ settings for even greater control over bass and overall sound preferences.
Microphone
The A40 TR comes equipped with a unidirectional, highly adjustable microphone that captures clear and natural voice audio.
Designed with competitive gaming in mind, the mic effectively reduces background noise.
The microphone is detachable.
It also features an optional Mod Kit upgrade for a noise-canceling mic.
Platform Compatibility
The Astro A40 TR is highly versatile, offering compatibility with PCs, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, and mobile devices.
When paired with the Astro MixAmp Pro TR, it provides seamless integration and enhanced audio controls for consoles and computers.
includes 3.5mm cable
Sound Quality & Controls
The sound quality of the Astro A40 TR is exceptional, featuring balanced audio with clear highs, detailed mids, and punchy bass.
Its open-back design enhances the soundstage, creating a natural audio experience perfect for both competitive gaming and casual listening.
The headset delivers accurate positional audio, helping players pinpoint in-game sounds for an edge in gameplay.
The controls are easily accessible, especially when paired with the MixAmp Pro TR.
Users can adjust volume, toggle game/chat audio balance, and switch between customizable EQ presets with precision.
Bonus Features
- Modular Design: Includes swappable speaker tags and the ability to upgrade with the A40 Mod Kit, which adds noise-isolating ear cushions, a voice-isolating microphone, and a closed-back design.
- Astro MixAmp Pro TR Compatibility: Enhances audio quality with Dolby Audio support, customizable EQ profiles, and real-time game/chat audio balancing.
- Durable Build: Constructed with high-quality materials for long-lasting reliability and comfort.
- Lightweight Comfort: Adjustable headband and memory foam ear cushions ensure comfort during extended gaming sessions.
- Customizable Audio Profiles: Use the Astro Command Center software to create and save EQ presets tailored to your preferences.
- Open-Back Design: Provides a wide soundstage and natural acoustics, ideal for immersive gameplay.
Conclusion
Choosing the right gaming headset is as much about personal preference as it is about performance.
Each of the headphones listed brings something unique to the table, catering to different priorities and gaming styles.
Ultimately, the perfect headset depends on whether you prioritize sound fidelity, comfort, price, or features.
No matter your choice, each of these options reflects a well-crafted blend of audio engineering and thoughtful design, ensuring you’ll hear every footstep, explosion, and victory shout with clarity and style.
Why Choose Open-Back?
Open-back headphones offer a unique audio experience with their wide sound range and natural feel, making them perfect for optimal gameplay.
While they may not be suited for noisy environments, the spacious soundstage and clear audio details can significantly enhance gaming experiences, especially for those who want to hear every in-game cue.
