Our Top Picks
Sennheiser 506902 Audio Headset 64 Per System Circumaural10 x 6 x 6 inches0.78 poundsCheck on Amazon
Audio-Technica BPHS1 Broadcast Stereo Headset with Dynamic CardioidAdjustable19 x 16 x 5 Inches0.6 PoundsCheck on Amazon
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Professional Studio Monitor HeadphonesATH-M20X11.4 x 10 x 4.1 inches0.5 PoundsCheck on Amazon
Sennheiser and Audio-Technica both make excellent audio gear, so the better choice for gaming depends on the exact model: Sennheiser leans toward open-back, spacious sound and dedicated gaming headsets, while Audio-Technica is best known for durable closed-back studio headphones and, in many cases, a detachable-cable design that pairs with a separate microphone. If you want a single plug-and-play gaming headset with a boom mic, Sennheiser’s gaming line is the more direct match; if you want strong sound for the money and are happy to add a mic, Audio-Technica is a solid route.
Who Makes What
Sennheiser is a German audio company with a long record in studio, audiophile, and broadcast headphones. Its gaming-oriented products have included the GSP and Game One/Game Zero style headsets, and its open-back headphones such as the HD 560S are popular with PC players who prefer natural staging. Note that the consumer part of Sennheiser’s business has been operated by a licensee in recent years, so product lines and support pages can change; the maker’s own site lists what is currently sold.
Sennheiser 506902 Audio Headset 64 Per System Circumaural Dynamic Microphone Hypercardioid Ca
Picked as a relevant option in this category.
View on AmazonAudio-Technica BPHS1 Broadcast Stereo Headset with Dynamic Cardioid Boom Mic
Picked as a relevant option in this category.
View on AmazonAudio-Technica ATH-M20x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones, Black | 96dB Sensitivity, 15-20kHz Frequency Response, Suspension Headband, 6.3mm Adapter, for Monitoring, Tracking and Mixing
Chosen because it specifies Black and 96dB Sensitivity.
View on Amazon
Audio-Technica is a Japanese company with a catalog spanning microphones, turntables, and headphones. Its ATH-M series (such as the ATH-M50x and later variants) is widely used for monitoring and has a reputation for sturdy build. The company has also sold dedicated gaming headsets under the ATH-G and ATH-GDL names, plus the separate BP-series boom microphone-style accessories. Because lineups rotate, treat these names as examples, not a buying list.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Factor | Sennheiser | Audio-Technica |
|---|---|---|
| Typical strength | Spacious, detailed sound; open-back designs | Punchy, durable closed-back designs |
| Gaming headsets with boom mic | Broad gaming range, wired and wireless | Smaller gaming range |
| Studio-style headphones | HD series, open and closed | ATH-M series, closed-back |
| Microphone approach | Integrated boom on gaming models | Often a separate mic or detachable boom |
| Isolation | Open-back leaks sound and lets room noise in | Closed-back blocks more outside noise |
| Cable and repairs | Replaceable parts on many models | Detachable cables and replaceable pads on many models |
| Tuning | Often neutral to balanced | Often warmer or with boosted bass |
| Best fit | Imaging-focused players, quiet rooms | Noisy rooms, music and creator use |
Sound for Gaming
Gamers care about three things: positional accuracy in shooters, clear dialogue in story games, and comfort over long sessions. Open-back headphones often present a wider soundstage because sound is not trapped in the cup, which can make footsteps and direction cues easier to place. Reviewers frequently describe Sennheiser’s open designs this way. Closed-back models, including Audio-Technica’s M-series, usually give more bass punch and block outside sound, which suits loud rooms or shared spaces but can feel more enclosed.
No brand wins on every pair. Tuning differs by model, so read independent measurement-based reviews for the exact headphone rather than judging by the name on the box.
Microphone Quality
Built-in boom mics on gaming headsets are generally fine for voice chat but rarely match a dedicated microphone. Sennheiser’s gaming headsets include a boom mic as standard. Audio-Technica’s well-liked studio headphones have no mic at all, so a player needs a clip-on or desk microphone, or a headset-specific accessory. For streaming or recording, many creators prefer a separate USB or XLR microphone regardless of headphone brand.
Comfort and Build
Clamping force, weight, and pad material matter more than logos during long sessions. Many ATH-M-series users describe a firm clamp on some models, while open-back Sennheiser designs are often described as light with soft velour pads. Glasses wearers and people with larger heads should look for models with adjustable headbands and replaceable pads. Check what the maker lists for pad and cable replacement parts.
Wired vs Wireless and Connectivity
Both companies sell wired and Bluetooth models. For gaming, a wired connection or a low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless dongle avoids the audio delay common with Bluetooth. Many studio-style headphones from both brands use a 3.5 mm or 6.35 mm plug, so a PC with a good onboard audio chip or a small external DAC and amp is helpful, especially with higher-impedance models. Check the impedance spec the maker lists and whether your motherboard’s audio output can drive it.
Who Should Pick Which
Competitive and shooter players
Players who value imaging in a quiet room may prefer an open-back Sennheiser, paired with a clip-on or desk microphone. If your room is noisy or others share the space, a closed-back model is the practical choice.
Creators and streamers
Studio-style closed-back headphones, such as the Audio-Technica M-series, work well for monitoring because they limit sound bleeding into the microphone. Sennheiser also has closed-back studio models.
Budget tiers
Entry-level options from both brands exist in the wired, no-frills category. Mid-range models improve comfort and tuning. Premium models add better drivers, build, or wireless features. Compare the specific lineup rather than assuming one brand is cheaper.
Console and handheld players
Check the connector type and whether the headset needs a USB dongle, since console compatibility varies by model. The maker’s compatibility list is the reliable source.
Common Myths
- “Open-back is always better for gaming.” It can image well but leaks sound and picks up room noise.
- “Studio headphones make bad gaming headphones.” Many work very well with a separate mic.
- “A higher impedance means better sound.” It only means the headphone needs more drive voltage.
- “Virtual surround is essential.” Good stereo imaging is enough for many players, and software surround can color the sound.
- “Brand tells you the sound.” Individual models differ more than brands do.
Practical Recommendation
Choose by use case first: all-in-one wireless headset, open-back for quiet rooms, or closed-back studio style with a separate mic. Then compare two or three specific models from each brand using independent reviews and the maker’s spec pages. Try them on if possible, since comfort is personal and hard to judge from specs.
Fit, Pads, and Long-Session Comfort
Before committing, look at ear-cup size, pad depth, and headband padding. Over-ear designs that fully enclose the ear can feel warm in long sessions, while open-back designs ventilate better. Replacement pads are a cheap way to change comfort on many models, and the maker’s parts page lists which pads fit which headphone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sennheiser better than Audio-Technica for gaming?
Neither is better across the board. Sennheiser offers more purpose-built gaming headsets and strong open-back options, while Audio-Technica offers well-regarded closed-back headphones that need a separate mic. The right pick depends on room noise, mic needs, and comfort.
Do I need an amplifier or DAC?
Many headphones run fine from a motherboard’s audio output or a console controller. Higher-impedance models can benefit from an external amp. The maker lists impedance and sensitivity on the product page.
Can I use studio headphones for voice chat?
Yes, with a separate microphone such as a clip-on, a desk USB mic, or a headset-style boom accessory. Some models have a detachable cable with an inline mic.
Are wireless headsets laggy?
Bluetooth can add noticeable delay, while 2.4 GHz dongle-based wireless is usually designed for lower latency. For competitive play, wired or dongle-based connections are the safer choice.
How long do these headphones last?
Build quality is a strong point for both brands, and many models have replaceable pads and cables. Lifespan depends on use and care, so check the warranty terms on the maker’s page.
