When it comes to gaming accessories, the market is filled with different peripherals and gadgets that all claim to enhance your gaming experience. However, with all those options on the table, making the right choice can sometimes be challenging.
When it comes to headsets, there are two primary types of earphones/headphones available: USB and Analog. Each one has its pros and cons. Read on to find out which one is right for you.
USB headsets vs Analog (3.5mm) headsets
USB headsets are the recent addition to the already full world of headphones. The most significant and most compelling advantage of USB headsets is that they work with their audio cards.
Using USB headsets means that it doesn’t matter what audio card you have on your PC, the headset’s audio experience is going to be consistent across all devices, which is a massive advantage if you go to play in any event and the sound cards are not just up to the mark. Your experience stays consistent.
Since USB allows for power delivery as well, any lights on the headset can also be powered by the same plug. This feature saves you a USB port against regular headphones that require you to plug them first in the 3.5mm jack and then have a separate USB connection for any RBG that they might have.
One extra USB port can make a lot of difference, especially if you’re on a newer laptop. These headsets also tend to last longer. USB cables are way more durable than a 3.5mm aux cable. Not only the cable itself, the diaphragm and other internal components generally tend to outlast their 3.5mm counterparts.
However, all that goodness doesn’t mean that USB headsets don’t have their downsides.
For instance, USB headsets are heavier than their analogue counterparts. Since the chassis holds way more components in addition to the diaphragm, it makes for a slightly heavier and bulkier build.
Also, USB tends to be a bit on the expensive side. For the money you spend on a USB headset, you might be able to get a decent sounding analogue headset and still have some cash left. Also, since USB headsets have hit the market, analogue headsets have come down in price.
Then there are options. USB is still relatively new, and there are not a lot of choices available. On the other hand, analogue has been around forever, and hence you have thousands of options from which you can choose.
Next comes compatibility. While both types of headsets are compatible with pretty much every device, for a USB headset, your phone needs OTG support and an OTG adapter as well. Analogue headphones? Just plug them in, and you’re good to go.
Which one should you choose?
Our suggestion would be USB. It’s got obvious advantages, works better, is more reliable and with the 3.5mm jack being ruled out from pretty much every machine, is the future or wired headsets.
However, if you’re strapped for cash, and in love with the good old 3.5mm jack, analogue headsets are still a viable option.
Also read: Top 5 headphones under INR 10,000
