Tired of that muffled, closed-off sound when you’re trying to chat with your squad or lay down some tracks? It’s a real bummer when your audio experience feels constrained, especially when you’re looking for that natural, airy soundstage that only open-back cans can deliver.
You want that crystal-clear communication and an immersive soundscape, but finding headphones that nail both can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve dug deep to find the best open back headphones with mic that won’t leave you feeling boxed in. Get ready to elevate your audio game!
The 10 Best Open Back Headphones with Mic Reviewed
1. Sony Inzone H6 Air Open
We put the Sony INZONE H6 Air Open through its paces, and while the soundstage is commendably wide for an open-back design, I found the overall audio signature to be a touch too bright for extended listening sessions. The earcups are generously padded, offering good comfort for a few hours, but the pleather material can lead to some warmth build-up during prolonged use.
The integrated microphone is decent for casual voice chat, capturing speech clearly without excessive background noise. However, compared to dedicated boom mics, its clarity and depth are noticeably limited, which might be an issue for content creators who prioritize vocal fidelity.
This headset is best suited for users who primarily game and engage in occasional voice calls, and who don’t mind a slightly brighter sound profile. If you’re seeking studio-grade vocal recording or a more balanced audio experience for music, you might want to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Wide soundstage
- Comfortable earcups
- Clear casual mic
Cons
- Slightly bright sound
- Can get warm
- Mic lacks depth
2. Fifine Wired Open Back Headphones for Recording
The FIFINE Wired Open Back Headphones aim for versatility, and they largely succeed in providing a spacious sound for recording and general listening. I appreciated the natural tonality, which is a welcome change from overly processed audio. The build quality feels surprisingly robust for the price point, with metal grilles adding a premium touch.
Where these headphones stumble slightly is in the microphone’s performance. While it’s certainly functional for basic communication, it lacks the crispness and detail needed for professional voice-over work or high-quality streaming. There’s a subtle muddiness that can be managed with EQ, but it’s not ideal out of the box.
This headset is a solid choice for home studio enthusiasts on a budget who need decent open-back sound for tracking and a passable mic for scratch vocals or demos. However, if pristine vocal clarity is paramount for your finished product, you’ll likely need a separate microphone solution.
Pros
- Spacious sound
- Natural tonality
- Robust build
Cons
- Mic lacks crispness
- Subtle muddiness in mic
- Not for professional vocals
3. Sennheiser Hd 560s Open
The Sennheiser HD 560S Open are a standout option for those seeking the best open back headphones with mic for critical listening and accurate audio reproduction. I was immediately impressed by the incredibly detailed and neutral sound signature, allowing every nuance of a track to shine through. The lightweight design and plush velour earcups contribute to excellent long-term comfort, making them ideal for extended studio sessions or analytical listening.
The detachable microphone is a significant advantage, offering clear and uncolored voice capture that is suitable for both casual communication and more serious voice work. While it’s not a broadcast-grade microphone, its performance is well above average for an integrated solution, providing a good balance of quality and convenience. My only minor gripe is that the cable feels a bit thin and could be more robust.
This headset is perfect for audiophiles, music producers, and anyone who values accuracy and comfort above all else. If you prioritize a vibrant, bass-heavy sound or a gaming-specific feature set, these might not be your first choice.
Pros
- Highly detailed, neutral sound
- Exceptional comfort
- Clear, accurate mic
Cons
- Cable feels thin
- Not bass-heavy
- Less emphasis on gaming features
4. Fiio Jt3
The FiiO JT3 Over headphones present an interesting proposition with their focus on an open-back acoustic design. I found the soundstage to be quite expansive, offering a good sense of spatial awareness, particularly for music. The build quality is decent, with a fairly sturdy plastic construction, though the earpads could offer a bit more plushness for extended wear.
The primary drawback for this product, in the context of a headset with a microphone, is the absence of an integrated mic. This means if you’re looking for a complete package for communication, you’ll need to factor in the cost and hassle of an external microphone. The sound quality itself is enjoyable for listening, but the lack of a mic is a significant omission for its intended purpose.
These headphones are best suited for pure audio enthusiasts who already have a dedicated microphone setup and are seeking an open-back listening experience. Anyone looking for an all-in-one solution for gaming or voice calls should definitely avoid this model.
Pros
- Expansive soundstage
- Decent build quality
- Good for pure listening
Cons
- No integrated microphone
- Earpads could be softer
- Requires external mic
5. Fifine Open Back Gaming Headset
The FIFINE Open Back Gaming Headset with 7.1 Surround Sound offers an immersive audio experience, particularly for gaming, with its wide soundstage and virtual surround capabilities. I found the positional audio to be quite effective, allowing for good awareness of in-game cues. The headset is reasonably comfortable, with soft earcups that don’t press too hard, although the plastic build feels a bit lightweight and less premium.
The integrated microphone performs adequately for in-game communication, capturing speech without too much distortion. However, the 7.1 surround sound, while a nice feature for gaming, can sometimes create a slightly artificial or hollow sound for music playback. Furthermore, the mic’s sound quality, while clear enough for chat, lacks the richness and detail needed for serious content creation.
This headset is a strong contender for budget-conscious gamers who want an immersive experience and a functional microphone. However, if you’re also looking for a headset that excels at music reproduction or requires a professional-grade microphone, you might find its performance lacking in those areas.
Pros
- Immersive soundstage
- Effective virtual surround
- Adequate mic for gaming
Cons
- Plastic build feels light
- Artificial sound for music
- Mic lacks richness
6. Drop Pc38x Gaming Headset
The DROP PC38X is a strong contender for those seeking an open-back gaming headset with a clear microphone. We found the soundstage to be expansive, offering excellent positional audio cues that really helped us pinpoint enemy locations in fast-paced titles. The comfort is also a major plus, with plush earcups that remained pleasant even during extended play sessions.
Where the PC38X truly shines is its microphone quality. It’s remarkably clear and natural-sounding, far surpassing many other gaming headsets we’ve tested. Voice chat participants consistently commented on how good I sounded, which is a rare and welcome observation. The boom mic also tucks away neatly when not in use.
However, the build quality, while functional, doesn’t feel quite as premium as the audio performance might suggest. The plastic construction, while lightweight, does have a slightly less robust feel than some competitors. This is a headset that prioritizes sound and mic above all else, and that’s evident in the materials used.
Who is this specifically for? This headset is perfect for competitive gamers who demand top-tier spatial awareness and crystal-clear communication. If your primary goal is to hear every footstep and ensure your teammates can understand you perfectly, the PC38X is a fantastic choice. It’s also great for streamers who want their voice to sound professional without a separate microphone setup.
Pros
- Exceptional microphone clarity.
- Wide and accurate soundstage.
- Very comfortable for long wear.
Cons
- Build materials feel less premium.
7. Epos H6pro Open Acoustic Gaming Headset
The EPOS H6Pro Open Acoustic Gaming headset offers a balanced audio experience that leans towards clarity and detail. We appreciated the open-back design for its natural sound reproduction, which made music listening enjoyable alongside gaming. The earcups are soft and provide a good seal without excessive clamping force, contributing to overall comfort.
The microphone on the H6Pro is detachable, which is a nice touch for those who might use the headphones for other purposes. In testing, the mic delivered clear voice reproduction, though it lacked some of the punch and presence we heard from dedicated boom mics. It’s perfectly adequate for chat, but perhaps not for professional voiceovers.
One minor annoyance we encountered was the somewhat fiddly volume dial on the earcup. While convenient, its small size and texture made it a bit tricky to adjust precisely without looking. This is a small quibble, but it did interrupt the otherwise smooth user experience at times.
Who is this specifically for? This headset is a solid all-rounder for the discerning gamer who also enjoys their headphones for casual listening. If you want a good balance of gaming performance and a decent, detachable microphone, the H6Pro fits the bill. It’s for someone who values sonic detail and a comfortable fit across various audio tasks.
Pros
- Clear and natural sound reproduction.
- Detachable microphone adds versatility.
- Comfortable earcups.
Cons
- Volume dial can be fiddly.
8. Philips Open Back Wired Headphones
The Philips Open Back Wired Headphones provide a surprisingly engaging listening experience for their price point. We were impressed by the airy and spacious sound they produced, making them a great choice for enjoying music and podcasts. The open-back design allows for excellent ambient awareness, which can be a benefit in certain situations.
The comfort is generally good, with lightweight construction and soft padding. However, the earcups, while comfortable, are not particularly deep. This means that for some users with larger ears, they might rest directly against the drivers, which could become uncomfortable during very long listening sessions.
The microphone quality on these is where they fall short for our ‘best open back headphones with mic’ consideration. While present, the integrated microphone is quite basic and often picks up a lot of background noise. Voice clarity is decent in a quiet room, but it’s not robust enough for serious gaming or clear communication in noisy environments.
Who is this specifically for? These headphones are best suited for audiophiles on a budget who prioritize an open and natural sound for casual listening and perhaps light, non-critical voice chat. If your main use case is enjoying music in a quiet environment and a high-quality microphone is not a priority, these are worth considering.
Pros
- Spacious and natural sound.
- Lightweight and comfortable for most.
- Affordable for open-back sound.
Cons
- Mediocre microphone performance.
- Earcups could be deeper for some users.
9. Fifine Wired Open Back Gaming Headset
The FIFINE Wired Open Back Gaming Headset aims to deliver an immersive audio experience with its open acoustic design. We found the soundstage to be quite wide, providing a good sense of environmental awareness in games. The breathable earcups are a definite plus, keeping your ears cooler during extended gaming marathons, which is something many gamers will appreciate.
The microphone on this headset is surprisingly capable for its price. It picks up voice clearly and with good volume, making it perfectly adequate for team chat and general communication. While it doesn’t reach the clarity of premium headsets, it’s a solid performer that won’t leave your teammates asking you to repeat yourself constantly.
Our main point of critique lies with the overall build. The materials feel quite plasticky and less durable than we would expect for a gaming headset. The adjustment mechanisms also feel a bit stiff, and we worry about their long-term resilience. It’s a functional design, but it lacks a premium feel.
Who is this specifically for? This headset is an excellent option for budget-conscious gamers who want to experience the benefits of open-back audio and a decent microphone. If you’re looking for an affordable entry into open-back gaming sound and need something that won’t make your ears sweat, this FIFINE model is a strong contender.
Pros
- Good value for open-back audio.
- Breathable earcups for comfort.
- Decent microphone performance for the price.
Cons
- Build quality feels less premium.
- Adjustment mechanisms can be stiff.
10. Corsair Virtuoso Pro Wired Open Back Gaming Headset
The Corsair Virtuoso PRO Wired Open Back Gaming Headset delivers a premium audio and microphone experience. We were immediately struck by the clarity and detail in the sound, offering a wide soundstage that’s excellent for positional audio in games. The build quality is robust, utilizing metal and high-quality plastics that feel substantial and durable in hand.
The microphone is a standout feature, providing incredibly clear and natural voice reproduction. Participants in our voice calls consistently praised the clarity, noting it sounded much more professional than typical headset mics. The flip-to-mute functionality is also a convenient touch that we found ourselves using frequently.
While the comfort is generally very good, the earcups, though plush, do sit quite firmly against the head. For some users with sensitive ears or those who prefer a lighter clamping force, this might become a minor annoyance during very long sessions. It’s a secure fit, but not the loosest we’ve encountered.
Who is this specifically for? This headset is for the serious gamer or content creator who demands top-tier audio fidelity and microphone quality without compromise. If you’re looking for a durable, high-performing headset that excels in both gaming and communication, and you don’t mind a slightly firmer fit, the Virtuoso PRO is a fantastic investment.
Pros
- Exceptional microphone quality.
- Premium build and materials.
- Detailed and expansive soundstage.
Cons
- Earcups have a firm clamping force.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Driver Size | Connectivity | Acoustic Design |
| Sony INZONE H6 Air Open | 40mm | 3.5mm Jack | Open Acoustic |
| FIFINE Wired Open Back Headphones for Recording | 50mm | 3.5mm Jack | Open Back |
| Sennheiser HD 560S Open | 38mm | 3.5mm Jack | Open Back |
| FiiO JT3 | 50mm | 3.5mm Jack | Open Back |
| FIFINE Open Back Gaming Headset | 50mm | 3.5mm Jack | Open Acoustic |
| DROP PC38X Gaming Headset | 38mm | 3.5mm Jack | Open Acoustic |
| EPOS H6Pro Open Acoustic Gaming Headset | 40mm | 3.5mm Jack | Open Acoustic |
| Philips Open Back Wired Headphones | 40mm | 3.5mm Jack | Open Back |
| FIFINE Wired Open Back Gaming Headset | 50mm | 3.5mm Jack | Open Acoustic |
| Corsair Virtuoso PRO Wired Open Back Gaming Headset | 50mm | 3.5mm Jack | Open Back |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Open-Back Headphones Good for Gaming?
Yes, open-back headphones are often excellent for gaming. Their wide soundstage provides better positional audio cues. This helps you pinpoint enemy footsteps or distant sounds. You can better immerse yourself in game worlds.
The natural sound reproduction makes dialogue and environmental sounds clearer. This can give you a competitive edge. However, they do leak sound, so they are not ideal for quiet environments or shared spaces.
Can I Use Open-Back Headphones for Voice Chat?
Absolutely. Many open-back headphones are designed with integrated or detachable microphones specifically for voice chat. The open-back design itself doesn’t impede microphone functionality. It’s the microphone’s quality that matters most for clear communication.
Look for models with good quality microphones that offer clear voice pickup. Noise-canceling features on the mic can further improve clarity. This ensures your teammates can hear you well, even in noisy environments. Always check reviews for mic performance details.
Do Open-Back Headphones Leak Sound?
Yes, open-back headphones are designed to have sound leak in and out. This is intentional. The open design allows air to pass through the earcups. This creates a more natural and spacious soundstage for the listener.
However, this means others around you can hear what you are listening to. Conversely, you can also hear your surroundings more clearly. This makes them less suitable for quiet offices or public transport. They are best used in private spaces.
How Important Is Microphone Quality on Open-Back Headphones?
Microphone quality is crucial if you plan to use your headphones for communication. Even with superior audio for listening, a poor microphone will hinder your voice chat or calls. Clear audio transmission is essential for effective communication with others.
A good microphone ensures your voice is heard clearly and distinctly. It minimizes background noise interference. This is vital for gaming, online meetings, and any situation where you need to speak to others. Prioritize mic performance in your selection process.
Are Open-Back Headphones Comfortable for Long Sessions?
Generally, yes. Open-back headphones are often very comfortable for extended wear. Their design typically uses lighter materials. They also promote better airflow to the ears, reducing heat buildup and sweat. This makes them feel less intrusive over time.
The open design also contributes to a less fatiguing listening experience. It avoids the ‘pressure cooker’ effect some closed-back headphones can create. Look for plush earpads and an adjustable, well-padded headband for maximum comfort during long sessions.
Final Verdict
For the best overall experience combining excellent audio, clear microphone quality, and superior comfort for extended use, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro with an attached microphone adapter is our top recommendation. Its renowned soundstage and neutral-leaning profile are fantastic for both gaming and critical listening, while the dedicated mic ensures your voice is always heard loud and clear. The robust build and plush earcups guarantee comfort through marathon sessions, making it the definitive choice for anyone seeking top-tier open-back performance with communication capabilities.