12 Reasons Why Are Gaming Headsets So Big

Gaming headsets are big to provide immersive sound quality and unparalleled comfort. But why does size matter so much? Let's dive into it!

As a gamer, I’ve always been curious about the design of gaming headsets. From the outside, they seem quite bulky and extravagant. I decided to research and share my findings with you, my fellow gamers, so we can all understand the “big” deal.

Now, imagine yourself in the middle of an intense gaming session. The adrenaline is rushing through your veins, and you’re completely immersed in the game.

You want a headset that can keep up with you without sacrificing sound quality or causing discomfort. That’s where these big gaming headsets come into play.

Throughout this blog post, I’ll discuss the reasons behind the size of gaming headsets, the problems they solve, and the benefits they offer.

So, grab your favorite gaming snack and let’s unravel this mystery together. Trust me, and you won’t want to miss this!

Why Are Gaming Headsets So Big?

As a gamer myself, I’ve often wondered why gaming headsets tend to be so big. After researching and trying various headsets, I found several reasons for their size. Here’s a more detailed explanation of the reasons in the table above.

1. Audio Quality

When I’m playing games, I want the best possible audio experience. Many headsets can have larger speaker drivers. This means better frequency response and more accurate audio reproduction.

This allows me to hear subtle audio cues and become immersed in the game’s environment. The good sound makes it easier for me to hear footsteps, talk to my teammates and enjoy the music in the game.

• More significant speaker drivers: Better frequency response and more accurate audio reproduction.
• Enhanced immersion: Allows me to hear subtle audio cues and appreciate the game’s soundtrack.
• Improved gameplay: High-quality audio helps detect enemy footsteps and communicate with teammates.

2. Noise Cancellation

When I need to focus on my game, I want a headset that can block out background noise. Many headsets offer superior noise cancellation, essential for my gaming sessions.

The noise-cancelling capabilities of larger headsets allow me to concentrate on my game and coordinate with my teammates.

• Better passive noise isolation: Achieved through larger ear cups.
• More space for technology: Active noise-cancellation requires built-in microphones and circuitry.
• Enhanced focus: Reduction of external noise helps me concentrate on the game.

3. Design and Ergonomics

When I play games, I want to be comfortable. Gaming headsets are big because they focus on design and ergonomics to keep me comfy during long sessions.

• Padding: They have thick padding around the ear cups and headbands. More cushioning means more comfort but also a bulkier size.
• Adjustability: Gaming headsets fit various head sizes, with adjustable headbands and sometimes swiveling ear cups. This adds to their size.
• Cooling features: Some headsets have cooling gel-infused cushions or breathable fabric. These features help with comfort but can also make the headset bigger.

4. Comfort

As a gamer, I know comfort’s importance during long gaming sessions. Larger headsets provide several advantages. They ensure I can play for extended periods without feeling uncomfortable.

• Reduced strain: Even pressure distribution across the user’s head and ears.
• Enhanced comfort: More padding for longer gaming sessions.
• Superior fit: Fully enclosing the ears helps maintain comfort.

5. Microphones

Built-in microphones are crucial for communication. Larger headsets enjoy this aspect. I can enjoy better voice communication with my teammates with a big headset. That helps us coordinate our strategies effectively.

• More transparent communication: Noise reduction filters out background noise.
• Optimal voice pickup: Adjustable positioning allows me to find the perfect placement.
• Convenient design: Retractable microphones can be hidden away when not in use.

6. Wireless Connectivity

I love the freedom wireless gaming headsets provide. But they need more components that can increase their size. These components ensure that I can enjoy my gaming sessions without being restricted by cords.

• Power supply: Batteries provide power for the wireless connection.
• Communication: Transmitters and receivers help communication between the headset and gaming device.
• Stable connection: More circuitry maintains a reliable wireless connection.

7. On-Headset Controls

Having easy access to controls on my headset is crucial for me. Larger headsets can accommodate these convenient features. They allowed me to make adjustments without interrupting my gameplay.

• Quick volume adjustment: Easily control the volume during gameplay.
• Muting capabilities: Mute my microphone with ease.
• Customized audio preferences: Fine-tune sound profiles for the best experience.

8. Style and Aesthetics

As a gamer, I appreciate headsets that reflect my unique personality. Many headsets offer more space for eye-catching designs and customization options. So my headset can stand out in the gaming community.

• Impressive design: Stylish headsets make a statement.
• RGB lighting: Adds flair to my gaming setup.
• Personalization: Customizable features help me express my style.

9. Durability

I need a headset that can withstand the rigours of gaming. Larger headsets are more durable, providing peace of mind that my investment will last.

• Robust materials: Ensures the headset can handle long-term use.
• Reinforced joints: Prevents breakage in areas that experience stress.
• Quality construction: Offers confidence in the headset’s longevity.

10. Immersive Experience

A truly immersive gaming experience is essential to me. More many headsets help create that sense of immersion by:

• Enclosing the ears: Enhances the feeling of being in the game world.
• More profound bass response: Provides more powerful low frequencies for a richer audio experience.
• Superior surround sound: Creates an authentic sense of in-game space.

11. Expandability and Customization

As a gamer, I appreciate being able to expand and customize my gaming gear. Larger headsets often offer more options for expansion and customization. They allowed me to tailor my experience to my preferences.

• Modular design: This enables me to swap out components, like ear pads or headbands, for a more personalized fit.
• Firmware updates: Allows me to keep my headset up to date with the latest features and improvements.
• Compatibility: Offers greater flexibility for connecting to different gaming platforms and devices.

12. Extra Functionality

Gaming headsets are big because they include extra features for a better gaming experience.

• Onboard controls: Headsets often have built-in controls for volume, microphone muting, or sound profiles. These controls need extra space, making the headset larger.
• Microphones: Many headsets come with retractable or detachable mics for in-game communication. This versatility adds to the size.
• RGB lighting: Customizable RGB lighting adds a cool aesthetic. But also contributes to the headset’s size with extra components and space.

Do Bigger Headsets Mean Better Performance?

As a gamer, I’ve realized that bigger headsets don’t always guarantee better performance. Many factors contribute to the sound quality and user experience. Let’s break it down:

1. Driver Size and Audio Quality

The size of the driver in headphones affects the bass produced. But it does not mean that bigger headphones have better performance.

The driver unit’s quality and the materials’ variation make a massive difference in sound quality.

Headphones with large drivers struggle to reproduce high frequencies (treble). While bigger drivers can produce higher output, they must deliver better output.

2. Other Factors Affecting Sound Quality

When choosing headphones, you must consider more than the driver size. The driver size can range from 20mm to 50mm in diameter for headphones and 8mm to 15mm for earbuds.

Headphones need more sound as they sit on the ear, while earbuds go in the ear.

3. Bigger Drivers and Sound Distortion

If headphones have only significant drivers and none of the other essential components, the sound may be louder but with distortion and scratchiness.

The driver size affects the bass when comparing higher-quality headphones with the same specs.

4. Power and Sound Quality

If the speaker diaphragm is bigger, it has more power and produces more sound, and the sound quality can also be cleaner. But, a well-designed headphone with a smaller driver can still produce high-quality sound.

Is a Gaming Headset Different from a Standard Headset?

As a gamer, I’ve noticed that gaming headsets and ordinary headsets differ in several ways. When I’m choosing a headset, I consider the following differences:

1. Sound Quality and Surround Sound

Gaming headsets often deliver better sound quality for gaming, with enhanced bass and positional audio. I find this helpful in detecting in-game sounds like footsteps and gunfire.

Many gaming headsets also offer actual surround sound. That provides a more immersive experience. In contrast, regular headsets might not be as optimized for gaming audio.

2. Microphone

When I need to communicate with my teammates, I appreciate that gaming headsets usually come with a built-in microphone.

These microphones often have noise-cancelling features, which ensure clear communication.

But normal headsets might not have a microphone or a basic one without noise-cancelling features.

3. Comfort

I know gaming sessions can last for hours, so I look for headsets designed with comfort. Gaming headsets often feature generous padding, adjustable headbands, and breathable materials. In comparison, normal headsets might not focus on comfort as much.

4. Design and Aesthetics

If you’re a fan of flashy and bold designs, gaming headsets are known for their aggressive look, customizable RGB lighting, and vibrant colours.

In contrast, normal headsets usually have a more subtle and minimalistic design. Actually, they focus on everyday use and portability.

5. Connectivity and Software

Gaming headsets may offer specialized connectivity options, such as wireless or USB connections. Also, they have dedicated software for customization.

As a user, I appreciate being able to fine-tune audio profiles, microphone settings, and other features.

But normal headsets typically have a standard 3.5mm audio jack and may not offer any extra software for customization.

What Features Should You Look for in a Gaming Headset?

As a gamer, I understand the importance of having a quality gaming headset. I consider several features to ensure I get the best performance and experience when looking for a new headset.

Here’s a list of essential features to look for in a gaming headset:

1. Comfort: When I’m gaming for hours, comfort is crucial. I look for headsets with adjustable headbands, soft ear cushions, and lightweight designs. Those features ensure that I stay comfortable during long sessions.
2. Sound Quality: I want an immersive audio experience while gaming. I choose headsets with large drivers, surround sound capabilities, and good frequency response for accurate audio reproduction to achieve that.
3. Microphone Quality: Communicating with my teammates is essential in many multiplayer games. I prefer headsets with noise-cancelling microphones and adjustable positioning. So my voice comes through clearly.
4. Durability: I want my headset to last. So I focus on finding ones made from high-quality materials and solid construction to withstand daily use.
5. Wireless vs Wired: I want a wireless headset for freedom of movement, depending on my gaming setup. Or a wired headset for reliable performance without worrying about battery life.
6. Compatibility: It’s important to ensure that the headset I choose is compatible with my gaming platform, whether a PC, console, or mobile device.
7. Customization: I love personalizing my gaming experience. So I look for headsets with customizable sound profiles, RGB lighting, or interchangeable ear cups.
8. Battery Life (for wireless headsets): I must consider the battery life if I use a wireless headset. To ensure it lasts through my gaming sessions without frequent recharging.
9. Ease of Use: I prefer headsets with intuitive controls for volume, microphone muting, and other functions. So I don’t have to fumble with settings during gameplay.
10. Price and Value: I need to consider my budget and weigh the features against the headset’s price to ensure I get the best value.

After considering all the features and benefits, my recommendation for a gaming headset that is great value for money is the SteelSeries Arctis 7.

FAQ

Final Thought

Gaming headsets are significant due to various factors that enhance our gaming experience.

These headsets cater to our gaming needs, from better audio quality and noise cancellation to comfortable design and added functionalities like onboard controls, microphones, and RGB lighting.

The larger gaming headsets are justified as they provide comfort, performance, and immersion. Investing in a gaming headset is worth considering if you’re serious about gaming like me.

James Dimento

James Dimento is a Chief-in-Editor of SoundUnify. He is a headphone enthusiast and creative writer passionate about audio technology. He has three years of experience writing about headphones and sound quality and is responsible for creating reviews and taking care of all administration.