Best Gaming Headphones under $100 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
When choosing the perfect gaming headphones, many factors come into play, including noise cancellation and latency. This guide will help you pick the best wired or wireless options under $100 that offer impressive sound quality and effective noise cancellation.
Why Gaming Headphones Are Usually Wired
A wired gaming headphone setup generally provides the lowest latency, which is crucial for competitive gaming. The signal travels directly from the source to the headphones, ensuring that players hear game sounds instantaneously. In contrast, wireless headphones often introduce latency, making them less ideal for gaming.
The Problem with Wireless Headphones
Most modern wireless headphones, while convenient, can introduce significant latency due to the processing required for features like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Built-in amplifiers, Digital Signal Processors (DSP), and other components that manage ANC and other audio enhancements can add delays. Even when you plug these headphones into a gaming router, the internal logic and signal processing can still introduce latency.
Alternatives to Wireless Headphones
There are two primary alternatives to wireless headphones under $100:
Widely-Lauded Wired Headphones: High-quality wired gaming headphones that offer a pure, latency-free audio experience. Passive Noise Cancellation Headphones: Lower-cost wireless headphones that provide exceptional noise cancellation without the need for active electronic components.Recommended Wireless Noise-Cancellation Headphones
One of the best wireless noise-cancellation headphones in this price range is the Sennheiser HD280 PRO. These headphones offer an impressive 32dB of passive noise cancellation and deliver excellent sound quality. They are headphones designed for audio professionals and audiophiles, which means they have exceptional capabilities for gaming, despite their lower cost.
Sennheiser HD280 PRO Details
The Sennheiser HD280 PRO headphones are particularly noteworthy for their passive noise-cancelling capabilities. While they lack active electronic ANC, they excel at capturing and reducing ambient sounds. They are available for around $50 used, and you can enhance their comfort and sound quality by replacing the earpads with official or similarly made ones. The new model also features replaceable headphone cushions, making them a highly customizable option.
Pros: Excellent passive noise cancellation Highly comfortable with replaceable pads Exceptional sound quality for the price
Cons: No active noise cancellation Wired version provides even better sound
To see the differences between the new and old models, visit the Sennheiser HD280 PRO page on Amazon.
Sennheiser PC37X/PC38X Alternatives
Another excellent option is the Sennheiser PC37X or PC38X. These wired headphones are specifically tailored for professional gaming and audio enthusiasts. While more expensive, they offer outstanding sound quality and minimal latency. The PC38X is even better but comes with a higher price tag.
Sennheiser PC37X Details
The Sennheiser PC37X and PC38X headphones are highly acclaimed among gaming enthusiasts and audiophiles. They feature a balanced and detailed sound signature, making them ideal for both gaming and music listening. These headphones are crafted with premium materials and a professional-grade design, ensuring a comfortable and immersive listening experience.
Pros: Excellent sound quality and clarity Minimal latency due to wired connection Professional-grade build and comfort
Cons: Higher price point Wired version only
For a detailed review and to hear more about the Sennheiser PC37X, visit the review page.
Conclusion
When investing in gaming headphones under $100, focus on either a top-tier wired headphone like the Sennheiser PC37X or PC38X, or a high-quality passive noise-cancellation wireless option like the Sennheiser HD280 PRO. Each offers unique advantages and can enhance your gaming experience without breaking the bank.
Sennheiser HD280 PRO - Noise-Cancellation Headphones for Gaming
Check Sennheiser HD280 PRO
Sennheiser PC37X - Professional Gaming Headphones
Check Sennheiser PC37X
Sennheiser PC38X - Professional Gaming Headphones
Check Sennheiser PC38X