A good gaming headset has several "ARCADE" characteristics:

Accurate - Vocals, music, and sound effects are reproduced as intended;

Responsive - Audio is transmitted in realtime with imperceptible latency;

Comfortable - Lightweight materials have proper cushioning, clamping force and fit adjustments;

Attuned - Sound is recorded and transmitted with minimal noise or interference;

Durable - Materials resist decomposition and fraying after repeated use; and

Ergonomic - Intuitive adjustments and controls become "second nature."

However, gaming headsets are designed for convenience more so than performance. Even the cheapest streaming microphones will sound better than an integrated mic: This is a matter of physics, not price.

Nevertheless, inexpensive gaming headsets are often "good enough" for voice chat, team-based games and entry-level streaming setups for Twitch and YouTube. Plus, less is sometimes more:

Stereo Gaming Headsets vs. 7.1 Surround Sound The best gaming headsets can virtualize a 7.1-channel surround sound system rather than a traditional left/right stereo mix. However, a study published by the Audio Engineering Society throws cold water on claims that surround sound can improve gaming performance. Joseph Rees-Jones, PhD. writes: "The analysis of results showed that the virtual surround-sound (VHT) condition was not preferred over the stereo down-mix, and there was no significant improvement in the perceived spatial quality...The results have negative implications for the use of VHT systems in gaming, even though the general consensus among the gaming community is that surround-sound virtualisation…is beneficial."

Speaking of misconceptions, there are rumors that gaming headsets cause hair loss. That’s nonsense, but any kind of headphone can cause hearing loss if played at an unsafe volume. Game wisely.

How Much Does a Good Gaming Headset Cost?