Looking for headphones under $80 for music or gaming?
Looking for headphones under $80 for music or gaming?
I’m struggling a lot to pick the right pair of headphones. I keep circling back without finding a clear choice. I’ve read numerous Reddit discussions but always come up with conflicting suggestions. I decided to post now instead of searching endlessly.
I currently use the included AKG earbuds with Samsung phones. I enjoy game soundtracks, anime music, pop songs, and play Valorant and single-player games often. I’m also considering audio mixing and editing, so that’s another factor.
My key requirements are:
- Must be closed-back
- Most threads suggested semi-open or open models, but I’ll share with someone else. I don’t want my roommate to hear everything.
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Needed for 15 minutes to several hours
- Needs durability and a lifespan of at least two years
- Good imaging and soundstage
- Must be able to drive without an external amp or DAC
- Should connect directly to my motherboard for plug-and-play use
- Open to standard headphones with a separate mic, but prefer a built-in mic due to space limits. I can stretch the budget up to $100 if needed, but aim for around $80 or less.
- Looking for options within this price range that satisfy all these needs.
This product is excellent based on my experience...
PCPartPicker Part List
Type|Item|Price
:----|:----|:----
Headphones
|
Kingston HyperX Cloud II 7.1 Channel Headset
| $79.04 @ Amazon
|
Prices cover shipping, taxes, rebates, and discounts
|
|
Total
|
$79.04
| Created by
PCPartPicker
2021-11-08 00:27 EST-0500 |
This product is excellent based on my experience...
PCPartPicker Part List
Type|Item|Price
:----|:----|:----
Headphones
|
Kingston HyperX Cloud II 7.1 Channel Headset
| $79.04 @ Amazon
|
Prices cover shipping, taxes, rebates, and discounts
|
|
Total
|
$79.04
| Created by
PCPartPicker
2021-11-08 00:27 EST-0500 |
I also suggest the Cloud II. However, keep in mind that no virtual surround sound headset offers perfect accuracy—its direction is at best unclear. The closed-back design also provides less soundstage, so it won’t match the performance of an open-back setup for virtual surround sound. I’ve stopped using virtual surround sound altogether and now rely on stereo only.
I suggest the ATH M20. This model is an improved version of the ATH-M20, attracting both professional and beginner audio lovers. It has a straightforward design that stays true to the brand’s tradition. The earbuds are slightly heavier but remain very comfortable, preventing fatigue even during extended listening sessions. For more options and advice, see this article: https://buyguideonline.com/most-comforta...under-100/