Key takeaways
- Head size: Open-backs often use velour pads that are soft but can breathe more. If you wear glasses, test whether the pads leave a seal gap.
- Clamping force: Lighter models like the EPOS and Philips tend to be lighter on the head; heavier studio models may feel firm.
- Cable and connectors: Check whether the cable is detachable and what plug it uses. Many consoles and controllers use a 3.5 mm jack.
- Cleaning: Velour pads can collect dust. Gently brush them, avoid soaking, and follow the maker’s instructions.
- Hearing safety: Because open-backs let outside noise in, some players raise volume. Keep levels reasonable.
- Dust and pets: Open grilles collect dust and pet hair, so store the headset on a stand or in a case.
If you game in a quiet room and care about wide, natural soundstage for positional audio, the Sennheiser PC38X, EPOS H6PRO Open, and a Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro with a clip-on microphone are the open-back options most often discussed; players who want audiophile-style sound with a separate mic may prefer a Sennheiser HD 560S or HiFiMan HE400se. Open-back designs let sound leak in and out, so they suit solo play at home rather than noisy dorms, shared offices, or late-night sessions beside a sleeping partner.
Our top picks
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Open Back Gaming Headsets at a Glance
| Model | Microphone | Best for | Key stated feature | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sennheiser PC38X | Built-in, detachable boom | Open-back gaming with a mic in one package | Maker lists an open-back design and a noise-cancelling boom microphone | Wired only; leaks sound |
| EPOS H6PRO Open | Built-in boom | Lightweight open-back comfort for long sessions | Maker lists an open acoustic design and a flip-to-mute microphone | Wired only; not for noisy rooms |
| Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro | None (add a separate mic) | Detailed, bright sound on a PC with a standalone microphone | Maker lists an open-back studio design with a replaceable cable | High-impedance design benefits from an amp or good DAC |
| Sennheiser HD 560S | None (add a separate mic) | Neutral, natural sound for competitive and cinematic games | Maker lists an open-back design aimed at a neutral response | Needs a separate microphone |
| HiFiMan HE400se | None | Planar-magnetic sound at an entry level | Maker lists a planar-magnetic driver | Less efficient; can need more power; fragile feel |
| Philips SHP9500 | None | Budget open-back listening | Open-back design with a light frame | Availability varies; plasticky build |
Models change generations and are sometimes re-badged. Confirm the exact name on the maker’s page before ordering.
What “Open Back” Means for Gaming
An open-back headset has ear cups with vents or mesh instead of a sealed shell. Sound passes through the back, which reviewers say gives a more spacious, less “inside the head” presentation. For games, that can help with placement of footsteps and gunfire. The trade-off is isolation: you hear your environment, and others hear your game audio.
Soundstage and positional audio
Many players choose open-backs for imaging in first-person shooters and for the natural feel of cinematic games. The headset only reproduces the signal it receives, so game audio settings, stereo versus virtual surround, and the sound card or DAC still matter. Reviewers often point out that good stereo with a well-designed open-back can be easier to localise than software surround on a poor headset.
Microphone options
Few open-back models include a microphone. The Sennheiser PC38X and EPOS H6PRO Open are well-known exceptions. With other models, you pair the headphones with a clip-on or desk microphone. This can improve voice quality because standalone microphones are usually better than the boom mics in budget headsets, but it adds cost and cable clutter. A clip-on lavalier or a modmic-style boom are common solutions.
Impedance and power
Some open-back headphones are easy to drive from a motherboard output or console controller. Others, such as the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro in its high-impedance version, are voiced for a headphone amplifier or a quality DAC. The maker lists several impedance versions on some Beyerdynamic models, so read the label. A basic USB DAC or amplifier is often enough, and consoles may need an adapter.
Models in Detail
Sennheiser PC38X
The PC38X is the most direct answer to “open-back with a microphone.” The maker lists an open-back design and a detachable noise-cancelling microphone, and it connects with a standard analog plug. Reviewers have described the sound as open and natural, and comfort as good for long sessions. The cons are the usual open-back ones: sound leakage and no isolation. It also lacks wireless and lighting, which some gamers want.
EPOS H6PRO Open
The H6PRO Open is a lightweight, wired open-back gaming headset. The maker lists an open acoustic design and a flip-to-mute boom microphone. It tends to appeal to players who like a lighter feel and a clean look. Like most open designs, it is best in a quiet room.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
This is a studio open-back headphone, widely used by gamers who add a separate microphone. The maker lists an open-back design and a replaceable cable. Reviewers commonly describe the sound as bright and detailed, which can emphasise treble. If you are sensitive to harsh highs, it may not suit you. With a good audio source it is popular for competitive and music use.
Sennheiser HD 560S
The HD 560S is aimed at a neutral response, according to the maker, and is often discussed as a flexible choice for games, movies, and music. It does not have a microphone, so you will need a separate one. It is an easier load than some studio headphones, so it can work from many desktop outputs.
HiFiMan HE400se
Planar-magnetic drivers differ from conventional dynamic drivers and are known for speed and detail. The HE400se is positioned by reviewers as an entry planar. It is less sensitive than most gaming headsets, so it can benefit from a headphone amplifier. It also feels lighter in build than premium models, so handle it carefully.
Philips SHP9500
A budget open-back classic. Reviewers have praised its light weight and clear sound for the cost. Because availability and revisions vary, treat it as a possible bargain rather than a fixed choice. Its construction is light, so it is not meant for rough handling.
Budget Tiers
| Tier | Typical choice | What you get | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Philips SHP9500, a clip-on microphone | Open sound at the lowest cost | Lighter build; extra mic needed |
| Mid-range | Sennheiser HD 560S, DT 990 Pro, EPOS H6PRO Open | Better drivers, comfort, or an included mic | Some need a DAC or separate mic |
| Premium | Sennheiser PC38X, planar models such as the HE400se with an amplifier | Refined sound, all-in-one options | Still wired; leak sound |
Fit, Comfort, and Care
- Head size: Open-backs often use velour pads that are soft but can breathe more. If you wear glasses, test whether the pads leave a seal gap.
- Clamping force: Lighter models like the EPOS and Philips tend to be lighter on the head; heavier studio models may feel firm.
- Cable and connectors: Check whether the cable is detachable and what plug it uses. Many consoles and controllers use a 3.5 mm jack.
- Cleaning: Velour pads can collect dust. Gently brush them, avoid soaking, and follow the maker’s instructions.
- Hearing safety: Because open-backs let outside noise in, some players raise volume. Keep levels reasonable.
- Dust and pets: Open grilles collect dust and pet hair, so store the headset on a stand or in a case.
Pick X If… Decision Table
| Pick this | If you |
|---|---|
| Sennheiser PC38X | Want open-back sound and a boom mic in one product |
| EPOS H6PRO Open | Want a lighter open-back headset with a built-in mic |
| Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro | Like bright, detailed sound and will add a mic and a DAC |
| Sennheiser HD 560S | Prefer a neutral sound for games and music |
| HiFiMan HE400se | Want to try planar sound and have an amplifier |
| Philips SHP9500 | Want the lowest-cost way to try open-back |
Alternatives to Consider
- Semi-open or closed gaming headsets: Better if you need isolation. Many mainstream gaming brands offer these with built-in mics and wireless.
- Open-back headphones plus a desk microphone: More flexible voice quality than most boom mics.
- Sennheiser HD 599 and HD 6xx series: Broader audiophile options that pair well with an add-on boom microphone.
- Closed-back wireless headsets: Choose these if you value battery-powered freedom over soundstage.
Setting Up Open Back Headphones for Games
Once you have chosen a model, a few settings make a large difference. In the game, choose stereo output unless the maker of your headphones names a particular virtual surround mode. Many players find that stereo gives clearer placement with open-back designs than stacked surround effects. In the operating system, set the sample rate to match your DAC and disable any enhancements that colour the sound. If you use an equaliser, make small changes and compare against the flat setting, because large boosts can introduce distortion.
For voice chat, set the microphone level so that your voice peaks well below clipping, and use noise suppression sparingly because it can make speech sound processed. If you use a separate microphone, position it to the side of your mouth to reduce breath noise. Keep game volume low enough that the microphone does not pick up headphone leakage, which is the main downside of open-back designs during calls.
Finally, give your ears time to adjust. Open-back headphones often sound more natural but less bass-heavy than sealed gaming headsets, and it can take a few sessions to appreciate the difference. If a model feels too bright or too light after a week, an equaliser tweak or a change of pads may help, and a return window gives you a safety net.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are open-back headsets better for gaming?
They can give a wider, more natural soundstage that many players like for positioning. They are not better in every case, because they offer no noise isolation and leak sound. They are best in quiet rooms.
Can people hear my game or voice chat through open-backs?
Yes. Open designs let sound escape, so anyone nearby may hear the game. Microphones can also pick up speaker sound, so keep the volume moderate during voice chat.
Do open-back headphones work with a console?
Many do through a 3.5 mm jack on the controller or a USB DAC. Harder-to-drive models may sound quiet without an amplifier. Check the plug type and the maker’s guidance.
Do I need a DAC or amplifier?
Not always. Easy-to-drive models work from most outputs. Higher-impedance or planar models benefit from a headphone amplifier or a good DAC.
How do I add a microphone to open-back headphones?
Use a clip-on lavalier, a modmic-style boom, or a desk USB microphone. Place it close to your mouth and away from your keyboard for clearer voice quality.
Are open-back headsets good for streaming?
They can be, but speaker bleed may be picked up by your microphone. Keep the microphone close, lower the volume, and use a directional mic.
