What features make the best JBL gaming headsets? The brand distinguishes itself mainly in sound quality, so a set of JBL headphones for gaming should have excellent audio with lifelike frequency response, strong bass, and clear mid-tones. JBL headsets should also provide spatial sound over a wide virtual soundstage with surround sound effects, creating a more immersive gaming experience.
Finally, as with any wired or wireless gaming headset, comfort is important, too. Especially for competitive gaming and marathon gaming sessions, a decent pair of dedicated gaming headphones should provide excellent ergonomics and wearability. You’ll find all this and more with JBL.
If you’ve recently taken up more cooperative multiplayer online games and are looking for better audio quality for communication with teammates, a performance PC gaming headset with a good microphone can make a big difference in your gaming sound experience and make you a more effective gamer as well. You also might be looking for more comfort or convenience than your current headset or game speakers provide. If you’re looking for more freedom of movement and multi-platform compatibility, you might consider a JBL wireless headset.
Keep reading to learn more about the best JBL headsets and how they compare to the top gaming headset models from other brands. This includes headsets by Logitech or even high-performance PC and console-compatible HyperX headsets.
Top JBL Gaming Headsets
#1 JBL JBLQUANTUM100BLKAM Gaming Headset
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: This headset features great sound quality and a 3.5mm audio jack connection to give users a model that works with all major game consoles, PC, and compatible smart devices. Additionally, the detachable mic will keep users in contact with friends and teammates.
- Impressive sound quality
- Great microphone
- Good comfort
- Needs a splitter for PC
The JBL Quantum 100 gaming headset is a fantastic choice for users looking for a competitive edge in their favorite games. The over-the-ear design offers decent noise isolation and the memory foam ear cushions will keep users comfortable and focused over hours of gaming. Thanks to the excellent sound profile, gamers will enjoy enhanced positional awareness to hear incoming enemies or actions in the distance. While this model requires an adapter to work on a PC, the wired connection will work with all modern gaming platforms.
In addition to comfort and compatibility, the JBL Quantum 100 gaming headset provides users with the QuantumSOUND signature for surround stereo in games, movies, or music. Additionally, the detachable microphone features voice focus so you can clearly communicate with teammates or casually talk with friends in a party chat. With a braided cord that measures almost four feet, users won’t feel restricted during major gaming moments.
#2 JBL JBLQUANTUM300BLKAM Gaming Headset
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This headset offers users a feature-rich and high-quality soundscape to enhance their immersion and performance in their favorite games. With a foldable microphone and excellent comfort features, users will enjoy hours of gameplay with friends and teammates.
- Fantastic surround sound
- Great comfort
- Included USB adapter
- No active noise cancellation
The JBL Quantum 300 gaming headset is an excellent choice for users looking for an improved soundscape for games and other media. With support for the JBL Quantum Engine Software, users can tailor this headset to meet their specific needs. Additionally, this headset provides users with JBL Quantum Surround sound to deliver an accurate soundstage and spatial awareness for peak competitiveness. While there isn’t active noise canceling, the over-the-ear design gives users a deep ear cup and thick padding for good passive noise isolation.
In addition to surround sound and the JBL Quantum Engine support, the JBL Quantum 300 gaming headset gives users a device that is pleasing to wear over hours of use. The thick memory foam ear cushions are covered with PU leather and the adjustable headband provides users with excellent comfort during high-level gaming. Additionally, the boom microphone features echo canceling for clear voice communication, and it folds away for solo gaming sessions.
#3 JBL JBLAUANTUM600BLKAM Gaming Headset
Award: BEST FOR STREAMERS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This functional and fashionable model features fantastic surround sound support to give users accurate audio cues across today’s top games. Additionally, the high-quality microphone and wire-free functionality ensure that users are unrestricted while entertaining an audience.
- Convenient onboard controls
- Wired and wireless functionality
- Good battery life
- Cannot use while charging
The JBL Quantum 600 gaming headset is a stellar pick for users who want wireless functionality and excellent sound quality to enjoy their games of choice without feeling restricted. Thanks to the 2.4GHz wireless signal from the USB dongle, this model works wirelessly with PlayStation consoles and PC. Additionally, this model supports a 3.5mm audio jack connection so you can use this headset with other gaming platforms and smart devices. While you cannot use this model while charging, you can expect up to 16 hours on a single charge.
In addition to multiple connection methods, the JBL Quantum 600 gaming headset provides users with an excellent soundstage across major games and streaming media. Thanks to the JBL Quantum Surround sound technology, users will enjoy enhanced positional awareness and accurate audio cues in their games of choice. Additionally, this headset provides users with numerous onboard controls like mute, volume adjustment, and audio mixing between game audio and chat.
#4 JBL JBLQUANTUM200BLKAM Gaming Headset
Award: BEST FOR CASUAL GAMERS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This headset features a long braided cord and a strong audio connection for lag-free audio and wide device compatibility across all major game consoles. Additionally, this model provides users with thick ear cushions and an adjustable headband so they can stay comfortable.
- Lag-free audio
- Onboard volume control
- Good microphone
- No EQ software compatability
The JBL Quantum 200 gaming headset features an over-the-ear design and excellent sound for a model that is great for online gaming or simply enjoying streaming movies and music. The long braided cord features a 3.5mm audio connection for lag-free audio with modern gaming consoles like the PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and the Nintendo Switch. Additionally, the included adapter allows users to enjoy gaming on the PC or chatting with friends. While users won’t get to use EQ adjustment software, this model still has the JBL Quantum Sound Signature.
In addition to a great wired connection and wide compatibility, the JBL Quantum 200 gaming headset provides users with a competitive edge in shooters or sports titles. Thanks to the amazing soundstage and speakers, this headset offers enhanced immersion and positional awareness in games and surround sound media. Additionally, the flip-up microphone allows for clear communication thanks to JBL’s echo canceling technology. Lastly, users will love the thick memory foam ear cups and adjustable headband that will keep them comfortable and focused in their game of choice.
#5 JBL JBLQUANTUM400BLKAM Gaming Headset
Award: BEST FOR MULTIPLAYER GAMERS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This model features a premium design and high compatibility so users can link up with their friends across multiple games and platforms. With surround sound support and EQ customization, users will love this stylish and functional headset.
- Wide device compatability
- Great onboard controls
- Good microphone quality
- No surround support on Mac
The JBL Quantum 400 gaming headset is a compelling pick for users looking to stay in clear contact with teammates and friends in their favorite games. The long audio cable won’t restrict users while they play, and the ability to utilize this headset over USB-C means you can take phone calls or listen to podcasts while working out. While this model doesn’t support surround sound on Mac devices, users can still tailor their audio via JBL’s EQ software on PC.
In addition to a lag-free connection and EQ customization, the JBL Quantum 400 gaming headset provides users with excellent spatial awareness in their favorite games. With deep ear cups, this model provides a great soundstage so users can hear oncoming enemies or become fully immersed in a single-player game. Additionally, users can customize the look of the headset with RGB customization in the JBL Quantum software. Lastly, the onboard controls let users quickly adjust their volume and audio mix.
#6 JBL JBLQUANTUM800BLKAM Gaming Headset
Award: BEST FOR COMPETITIVE GAMERS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This premium model features a stunning design and wire-free functionality for users who want freedom of movement while engaging in a high-pressure match. With support for a wired connection and multiple wire-free options, this model works on almost every platform.
- Superb connection quality
- Very comfortable
- Decent noise cancellation
- Cannot charge and use simultaneously
The JBL Quantum 800 gaming headset is a stellar pick for users who need performance-grade hardware to bring their game to the next level regardless of platform. This wireless model connects via 2.4GHz or Bluetooth 5.0 so users will be unencumbered during high-pressure plays or game-winning maneuvers. Additionally, this model supports a wired connection for lag-free audio in VR or simply chatting with friends. While users cannot enjoy this headset while it charges, it supports fast charging to quickly get them back to the game.
In addition to good battery life and numerous connection options, the JBL Quantum 800 gaming headset provides users with superb customization. With the JBL Quantum software, users can customize the RGB accents and adjust their audio profile to meet their specific gameplay needs. Additionally, this model features all-around comfort thanks to an adjustable headband and thick memory foam ear pads. Lastly, this model supports noise canceling to keep users focused and immersed in their favorite games.
Introduction to JBL Gaming Headsets
Founded in 1946, Los Angeles-based JBL is one of the world’s best-known manufacturers of high-quality audio components. The JBL brand name itself comes from the initials of company founder James Bullough Lansing. Drawing on Lansing’s audio engineering expertise, the company began designing speaker drivers for cinema. JBL surround sound speakers were the basis for the widely-adopted THX standard.
Noted engineer and innovator Sidney Harmon, co-founder of the Harmon Kardon speaker brand, acquired JBL in 1969. JBL currently produces a wide range of home and professional speakers, car audio systems, mobile device and PC gaming speakers, and concert venue PA systems. Along with numerous innovations in speaker arrangement and cooling hardware, JBL created the first neodymium magnetic drivers for pro-audio speakers.
The JBL Quantum gaming headsets, such as the well-reviewed JBL Quantum ONE, benefit from decades of cinema sound design history and produce impressive sound thanks to dynamic lightweight drivers and JBL’s sophisticated virtual surround sound feature.
JBL headsets also garner praise for their balanced sound and smart audio controls, prioritizing different frequency profiles for chat audio and game sound effects.
How JBL Compares to Other Brands
(Pro 1) Excellent Surround Sound: Not surprisingly, given JBL’s history as an originator of surround sound tech, JBL Quantum Sound and similar models offer excellent virtual surround sound from their dynamic stereo drivers. This feature helps create a more immersive audio experience in games and can boost competitive performance by helping players localize positional game audio.
(Con 1) Some Are Models More Expensive Than Many Gaming Headsets: While possessing outstanding tech features and audio quality, the high-end JBL Quantum 800 and JBL Quantum ONE models come in a higher price range than most over-the-ear wired gaming headphones.
(Pro 2) Available Game-Chat Balance Dial: This innovative and intuitive audio control dial allows users to adjust the audio profile on the fly to switch between the default sound profile and custom profiles for clear chat sound or more precise directional audio for tactical gaming.
(Con 2) Some Controls Can be Confusing: Most JBL Quantum headsets use software-based calibration via the JBL Quantum engine. It offers a wide array of configuration options and includes audio presets for 7.1 surround sound. Experienced PC gamers may find it relatively easy to set up. Still, some reviewers find the JBL Quantum Engine software interface may be confusing for novice users or those coming from a different system.
(Pro 3) Available Active Noise Cancelation: JBL Quantum One and other high-end models with closed-back design headphones have very effective noise cancellation, filtering out background noises to help provide a focused, immersive experience even if your gaming environment has lots of ambient noise.
(Con 3) Limited Wireless Battery Life: The JBL Quantum 600 and 800 wireless gaming headsets perform well but trail some competitors in battery life. They both offer a rated 14 hours of battery life on a full charge, which is a bit less than some similar wireless models from other brands.
(Pro 4) Lifelike Sound Quality: Most JBL Quantum models provide a highly accurate soundscape with great balance even on their default audio presets. Their rich, detailed, and faithful sound adds a level of realism to the gaming experience.
(Con 4) Some Features Only Available on PC: The JBL Quantum Engine software offers many fine-tuning options but some features aren’t compatible with every major platform. However, JBL’s Quantum 800 and Quantum 600 wireless headsets are still great options for multi-platform gaming.
Why Should You Buy a New JBL Gaming Headset
If you’re getting more into online multiplayer games, producing content for a popular streaming platform, or just need a more comfortable way to handle the audio on Zoom conference calls, an ergonomic new headset with surround sound may be an excellent choice. You don’t have to be an acoustic engineer to appreciate the detailed and balanced sound quality you get with a performance PC gaming headset like the JBL Quantum ONE.
You might also want to consider a newer JBL Quantum Sound headset for the improved microphone quality or the convenience of a USB connection. A USB-C port offers improved compatibility and some of the new JBL headsets offer dual wired options with both a USB and audio port.
Work and gaming alike can benefit from a newer JBL headset with a noise-canceling microphone. The higher-spec Quantum ONE offers a detachable boom microphone that helps transmit voice sounds clearly without interference from ambient noise or the sound of your mechanical keyboard.
New JBL models offer better sound definition, more fidelity at louder volumes, and more versatile connection types than older gaming headsets. If you use devices that don’t come with an audio jack, just as a laptop or mobile console, you might find it worthwhile to get a new wired headset with a USB cable or USB-C cable or switch to a wireless gaming headset like the JBL Quantum 600.
The current JBL headset range offers improved sound quality thanks to dynamic drivers and sophisticated signal processing.
New gaming headsets, especially the JBL Quantum Series with its sophisticated software, offer a much wider array of gaming-oriented configuration options and microphone settings. These options let PC and console gamers customize the virtual surround sound feature, the game and chat mode dial, and equalizer presets.
How Long Will a JBL Gaming Headset Last?
As with other headsets and dedicated gaming headphones, the longevity of a JBL headset will likely vary according to the type of use and the storage environment. JBL headsets have a good reputation for quality, and JBL over-ear headphone models come with durable aluminum construction and soft yet sturdy padded headbands.
Wired headsets generally last longer than wireless models because they are not limited to the longevity of the built-in rechargeable batteries. Wired models also tend to be heavier and have more robust construction.
Headsets with over-the-ear headphones usually last longer than earbuds, and a model with a detachable boom mic may last longer than one with a flip-up mic. The flip-up microphone connection can wear out over time, as can the flip-to-mute controls. Earbuds are more portable and, for this reason, tend to get damaged more easily.
The ear cups tend to show wear and tear on gaming headsets that see heavy use. Audio connections can also become loose or wear out with frequent gaming.
Experts suggest keeping your gaming headset someplace dry and away from extreme heat. To help maximize a wireless headset’s battery life, avoid letting the battery run down completely, and use a charger with the appropriate power level.
JBL Warranties
JBL Quantum headsets come with a 1-year limited warranty that covers manufacturing and material defects. Within the warranty period, customers can request tech support or ask for a replacement online. Certain refurbished models include a 90-day guarantee as well. If the product is more than 6 months old at the time of the request, JBL may replace it with a certified refurbished unit in “like-new” condition.
JBL’s warranty terms are average for consumer audio products, but their tech support generally gets good reviews. Optional added warranty coverage may be available on certain models, as is portable electronic accident protection coverage.
