5 best headphones with mic controls

Headphones with microphone controls are versatile audio accessories that serve multiple purposes, catering to various needs, including gaming, communication, music playback, and more. Here's what you need to know about these multipurpose headphones:

  1. Microphone Controls: These headphones come equipped with an integrated microphone and controls that allow you to adjust settings, answer calls, and manage audio playback directly from the headphones themselves. Common controls include volume adjustment, play/pause, skip tracks, and call answering/hanging up.

  2. Wired and Wireless Options: Headphones with mic controls are available in both wired and wireless configurations. Wired headphones typically connect via a 3.5mm audio jack, while wireless options use Bluetooth technology for a cable-free experience.

  3. Call Quality: When choosing headphones with microphone controls, consider the call quality. Look for models with noise-canceling microphones and clear voice transmission to ensure that your calls are crystal clear, whether you're using them for work or leisure.

  4. Sound Quality: Depending on your intended use, pay attention to the sound quality of the headphones. Audiophiles may prioritize headphones with high-fidelity sound, while gamers might look for models with immersive audio and positional accuracy.

  5. Comfort and Fit: Comfort is key, especially if you plan to wear these headphones for extended periods.Look for models with adjustable headbands, cushioned ear cups, and a design that fits your head comfortably.

  6. Battery Life (Wireless): If you opt for wireless headphones, check the battery life. Longer battery life is ideal, especially for all-day use. Some models also offer quick charging features.

  7. Multipurpose Use: These headphones are versatile and can be used for various activities, such as gaming, music listening, video conferencing, and more. Ensure that they meet your specific needs.

  8. Noise Isolation/Cancellation: Some models offer noise isolation or active noise cancellation (ANC) features to block out background noise. This can be beneficial for concentration or immersion in audio content.

  9. Compatibility: Verify that the headphones are compatible with your devices, whether it's a smartphone, tablet, gaming console, or computer. Some headphones are optimized for specific platforms or come with adapters for broader compatibility.

  10. Brand and Reviews: Consider reputable headphone brands known for their quality and durability. Reading user reviews can provide insights into the real-world performance of specific models.

  11. Price Range: Set a budget for your headphones, and explore options within that range. The market offers a wide variety of headphones with microphone controls at different price points.

These headphones with mic controls are valuable tools for multitasking, offering convenience and functionality for various audio-related activities. Whether you're gaming, working, or simply enjoying music and movies, the ability to control audio playback and manage calls directly from your headphones can greatly enhance your overall experience.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best headphones with mic controls on the market
  

Sony Foldable Headphones with Smartphone Mic and Control - Metallic Black

Sony

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

If you're passionate about IT and electronics, like being up to date on technology and don't miss even the slightest details, buy Headphones with Headband Sony MDRZX310APB 98 dB Black at an unbeatable price.Colour: BlackCable length: 1,2 mConnection: Jack 3,5 mmSound intensity: 98 dBFrequency: 10-24000 HzWireless: No

  • High quality and powerful sound
  • Enjoy clear mids and deep bass
  • Closed-type supra-aural, 30mm driver unit, neodymium magnet, 1.2m cable (both-sided)
  • Microphone : In-line electret condenser

User questions & answers

Question: Is this wired (to smartphone jack or computer jack) or wireless
Answer: Occasionally I use them on both but I normally use a better headset for the PC. They plug into my LG3 smartphone and to my Dell PC.
Question: Anyone enjoyed classical music with these
Answer: Funny you should ask. I am currently listening to a classical piano playlist on Spotify using these headphones and it sounds wonderfully clear and loud enough to get lost in; I'm on a NYC MTA bus!
Question: Is this really produce by sony
Answer: Apparently so. (Just a heads up - after briefly trying out my set, I decided to return them to "upgrade" to the MDR-V6 model. Have to say, the difference in listening experience is pretty noticeable between the two....love my MDR-V6 phones (crystal clear at all frequencies, where the MDR-ZX310 struggled with high end and muddied low end frequencies more than I care to experience over the long haul.)
Question: can i receive call with this
Answer: No. The ZX310AP is the version that has a microphone and control button on the wire.

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Industry Leading Noise Canceling Overhead Headphones with Mic for Phone-Call and Alexa Voice Control, Silver

Sony

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Sony’s intelligent industry-leading noise canceling headphones with premium sound elevate your listening experience with the ability to personalize and control everything you hear. Get up to 30 hours of battery life with quick charging capabilities, enjoy an enhanced Smart Listening feature set, and carry conversations hands-free with speak-to-chat.

  • Industry-leading noise canceling with Dual Noise Sensor technology
  • Next-level music with Edge-AI, co-developed with Sony Music Studios Tokyo
  • Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (10 min charge for 5 hours of playback)
  • Touch Sensor controls to pause/play/skip tracks, control volume, activate your voice assistant, and answer phone calls
  • Speak-to-chat technology automatically reduces volume during conversations
  • Superior call quality with precise voice pickup
  • Wearing detection pauses playback when headphones are removed

User questions & answers

Question: Will the mic be disabled when I use the 3.5 mm cable
Answer: Yes, they are pretty comfortable. My picky wife likes it. Also she said the sound is much better than the analog RF wireless headphone we have before.
Question: Can you use the noice cancelling without playing music
Answer: Yes, I connect the transmitter to my Desktop PC, now can listen music with it.
Question: Will these work with ps5 or ps
Answer: It is pretty comfortable. My picky wife likes it and she said the sound is much better than the analog RF wirelss headphone we have before.
Question: Whats better from the xm3 to to the xm4 is it even worth it
Answer: No, seems like the cushion and simulated leather are permanently attached. Why would you want to remove it, to begin with?

Product features

Industry-leading noise canceling headphones

Intelligent headphones with mic and Alexa voice control

Ambient Sound Control

Cancel noise while still allowing through essential sounds when you’re listening on the move.

Quick Attention Mode

Place your hand over the right ear cup for instant conversation.

Superior call quality

Precise voice pickup, combines five built-in microphones with advanced audio signal processing.

Speak-to-chat technology

Automatically pauses music when you speak, letting sound in so you can conduct your conversation.

Amazon Alexa-Built in

Alexa-enabled for hands-free voice access to music, information, and more.

Smart Listening by SENSE ENGINE

Automatically detects your activity and balances the noise canceling levels.

Wearing detection

Pauses playback when headphones are removed and resumes when you put them back on.

Upscales compressed digital music files

Using Digital Sound Enhancement Engine with Edge-AI, co-developed with Sony Music Studios Tokyo.

Proprietary technology for premium sound

The 40mm drivers with Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) diaphragms reproduce a full range of frequencies.

Personalized listening experience

Adaptive Sound Control automatically adjusts to your location and behavior.

Carry case with cable

The supplied carry case is durable and includes a cable for wired listening.

Sony | Headphones Connect” App for Android /iOS

Control your ambient sound settings and adjust the sound levels with the Equalizer.

All-day power with quick charging

Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (10 min charge for 5 hours of playback).

Touch Sensor controls

Pause/play/skip tracks, control volume, activate your voice assistant, and answer phone calls.

Seamless multiple-device pairing

The WH-1000XM4 headphones can be paired with two Bluetooth devices at the same time.

Blue Yeti USB Recording & Streaming on PC and Mac, 3 Condenser Capsules, 4 Pickup Patterns, Headphone Output and Volume, Mic Gain Control, Adjustable Stand, Plug & Play-Silver, (988-000103)

Blue

Based on 23 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Yeti is the most advanced and versatile multi-pattern USB microphone available anywhere. Combining three capsules and four different pattern settings, Yeti is the ultimate tool for creating amazing recordings, directly to your computer. With a sleek Silver finish, Yeti adds style and energy to your recording or broadcasting setup. Now you can capture anything with a clarity and ease unheard of in a USB microphone. Featuring Blue's innovative triple capsule array, Yeti can record in stereo or your choice of three other unique patterns, including cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional. Utilizing a high quality A-D converter, a built-in headphone amplifier for zero-latency monitoring, and direct controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and microphone gain. With no drivers to install, Yeti is the most versatile USB mic lighting up the airwaves today.

  • Tri-capsule array - 3 condenser capsules can record almost any situation.
  • Multiple pattern selection - cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional & stereo.
  • Gain control, mute button, and zero-latency headphone output.
  • Perfect for vocals, musical instruments, podcasting, voiceovers, interviews, field recordings, conference calls. Signal to Noise: 100dB
  • Compatible with Windows 10, Windows 8 (including 8.1), Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP (Home and Professional), and Mac OS X (10.4.11 or higher), and requires a minimum of 64 MB of RAM(remove existing and upload).
  • 2-Year Limited Warranty

User questions & answers

Question: About how long is the USB cable that it comes with
Answer: Does no one have a tape measure anymore? The cable is exactly 80 1/2 inches (i.e., 6 ft. 8 1/2 in.) from the tip of the USB Type A plug to the tip of the USB mini Type B plug. Of course, the manufacturer, Blue Microphones/Blue Designs, should provide this information, but I could find it nowhere in the company's literature.
Question: Will this make me get gud
Answer: Try a gamer chair. Dream said he has a good gamer chair.
Question: does it work for singing
Answer: It does work for singing. I have recorded songs with it and it comes out beautifully.
Question: do you need a poop filter for this
Answer: You don’t need a poop filter but you may want to use a pop filter to help reduce your pee sounds while recording.

Product features

Unique Positionable Design

Adjust and pivot the microphone in relation to the sound source to optimize your sound quality.

Blue’s Legendary Broadcast-Quality Sound

Makes the professional difference for recording, streaming and building your audience.

Custom Three-Capsule Array

Produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube, game streaming, podcasting, conference calls and music.

Onboard Audio Controls

Studio controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and microphone gain put you in charge of every level of the recording and streaming process.

Stunning Design

Yeti features a visual design inspired by classic audio gear—a stylish, retro vibe that will complement any desktop system, in a wide palette of colors to match with your on-camera aesthetic.

Four Pickup Patterns

Cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns offer incredible flexibility, allowing you to record in ways that would normally require multiple microphones.

No-Latency Monitoring

Monitor your voice in real time mixed with the sound from your computer to make sure your streams sound great. Compass premium microphone boom arm sold seperately.

Plug 'n Play on Mac and PC

Instantly start recording and streaming on Mac or PC.

Bidirectional Mode

Bidirectional mode picks up sound from both the front and rear of the microphone, but not the sides. Ideal for two-person podcasts.

Stereo Mode

Stereo mode picks up sound from left to right in front of the microphone. Great for recording music or a 3-person podcast.

Four Patterns for Ultimate Versatility

Four distinct pickup patterns allow you to record and stream in ways that would normally require multiple microphones.

Cardioid Mode

Perfect for podcasting, game streaming, YouTube productions, Skype calls, vocals and instruments, cardioid mode captures sound sources that are directly in front of the microphone.

Omni Mode

Omnidirectional mode picks up sound all around the microphone. Great for conference calls and captures the feeling of "being there."

Pro Broadcast Bundle

Yeticaster delivers the ultimate broadcast studio setup to your desktop with Yeti, the world’s #1 USB microphone, the all-new Radius III shockmount, and the Compass premium broadcast boom arm.

Accessorize Your Creative Space

Transform your desktop into a broadcast studio with the Compass broadcast boom arm and Radius III shockmount, or get them all together with Yeticaster.

Compass Premium Broadcast Boom Arm

Tired of squeaky, flimsy scissor booms? We are too! Compass features a broadcast studio-grade design with enclosed aluminum construction, internal springs, and hidden-channel cable management.

Radius III Custom Shockmount

Radius III is a vintage-style suspension mount designed to isolate Yeti and Yeti Pro USB microphones from noise, shock and ambient vibration.

Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording & Streaming on PC and Mac, 3 Condenser Capsules, 4 Pickup Patterns, Headphone Output and Volume Control, Mic Gain Control, Adjustable Stand, Plug & Play - Midnight Blue

Blue

Based on 23 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Yeti is the most advanced and versatile multi-pattern USB microphone available Anywhere. Combining three capsules and four different pattern settings, Yeti is the ultimate tool for creating amazing recordings, directly to your computer. With all new total blackout finish, Blackout Yeti adds style and energy to your recording or broadcasting setup. Blue Yeti can capture anything with a clarity and ease unheard of in a USB microphone. Featuring Blue innovative triple capsule array, Yeti can record in stereo or your choice of three other unique patterns, including cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional. Yeti utilizes a high quality A-D converter, a built-in headphone amplifier for zero-latency monitoring, and direct controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and microphone gain. With no drivers to install, Yeti is the most versatile USB mic lighting up the airwaves today. Signal to noise of headphone amplifier is 100 db. Frequency response of headphone amplifier is 15 Hz to 22 kHz. Unique positionable design

  • Tri-capsule array - 3 condenser capsules can record almost any situation
  • Multiple pattern selection - cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional & stereo
  • Gain control, mute button, zero-latency headphone output
  • Perfect for vocals, musical instruments, podcasting, voiceovers, interviews, field recordings, conference calls
  • Compatible with Windows 10, Windows 8 (including 8.1), Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP (Home and Professional), and Mac OS X (10.4.11 or higher), and requires a minimum of 64 MB of RAM(remove existing and upload)

User questions & answers

Question: About how long is the USB cable that it comes with
Answer:
Question: Will this make me get gud
Answer:
Question: does it work for singing
Answer:
Question: do you need a poop filter for this
Answer:

Product features

Unique Positionable Design

Adjust and pivot the microphone in relation to the sound source to optimize your sound quality.

Blue’s Legendary Broadcast-Quality Sound

Makes the professional difference for recording, streaming and building your audience.

Custom Three-Capsule Array

Produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube, game streaming, podcasting, conference calls and music.

Onboard Audio Controls

Studio controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and microphone gain put you in charge of every level of the recording and streaming process.

Stunning Design

Yeti features a visual design inspired by classic audio gear—a stylish, retro vibe that will complement any desktop system, in a wide palette of colors to match with your on-camera aesthetic.

Four Pickup Patterns

Cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns offer incredible flexibility, allowing you to record in ways that would normally require multiple microphones.

No-Latency Monitoring

Monitor your voice in real time mixed with the sound from your computer to make sure your streams sound great. Compass premium microphone boom arm sold seperately.

Plug 'n Play on Mac and PC

Instantly start recording and streaming on Mac or PC.

Bidirectional Mode

Bidirectional mode picks up sound from both the front and rear of the microphone, but not the sides. Ideal for two-person podcasts.

Stereo Mode

Stereo mode picks up sound from left to right in front of the microphone. Great for recording music or a 3-person podcast.

Four Patterns for Ultimate Versatility

Four distinct pickup patterns allow you to record and stream in ways that would normally require multiple microphones.

Cardioid Mode

Perfect for podcasting, game streaming, YouTube productions, Skype calls, vocals and instruments, cardioid mode captures sound sources that are directly in front of the microphone.

Omni Mode

Omnidirectional mode picks up sound all around the microphone. Great for conference calls and captures the feeling of "being there."

Pro Broadcast Bundle

Yeticaster delivers the ultimate broadcast studio setup to your desktop with Yeti, the world’s #1 USB microphone, the all-new Radius III shockmount, and the Compass premium broadcast boom arm.

Accessorize Your Creative Space

Transform your desktop into a broadcast studio with the Compass broadcast boom arm and Radius III shockmount, or get them all together with Yeticaster.

Compass Premium Broadcast Boom Arm

Tired of squeaky, flimsy scissor booms? We are too! Compass features a broadcast studio-grade design with enclosed aluminum construction, internal springs, and hidden-channel cable management.

Radius III Custom Shockmount

Radius III is a vintage-style suspension mount designed to isolate Yeti and Yeti Pro USB microphones from noise, shock and ambient vibration.

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone, with Built-In Headphone Jack & Volume Control, Black

Audio-Technica

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Equipped with a USB output, the AT2020USB+ is designed for digitally capturing music or any acoustic audio source using your favorite recording software. The microphone offers the critically acclaimed, award-winning sound of the AT2020, with studio-quality articulation and intelligibility perfect for singer/songwriters, podcasters, voice-over artists, field recorders, and home studio recorders. The AT2020USB+ features a built-in headphone jack with volume control that allows you to directly monitor your microphone signal with no delay. It also offers mix control that blends microphone and pre-recorded audio. The microphone’s cardioid pickup pattern delivers excellent off-axis rejection, while its A/D converter with a 16-bit, 44.1/48 kHz sampling rate ensures extremely articulate sound reproduction. Audio-Technica’s state-of-the-art design and manufacturing techniques ensure that the microphone complies with the company’s renowned consistency and reliability standards.

  • Condenser microphone with USB output for digital recording
  • High quality A/D converter with 16 bit, 44.1/48 kilohertz sampling rate for superb audio
  • Headphone jack with volume control allows you to monitor the microphone signal with no delay
  • Mix control allows you to blend your microphone signal and prerecorded audio
  • High output, the internal headphone amplifier delivers superior clarity and musical detail as well as more volume overall
  • Compatible with Windows 7, Vista, XP, 2000 and Mac OS X

User questions & answers

Question: How is the AT2020PLUS different from the regular AT
Answer: I have both. The AT2020 was great for general recording purposes, but for singing or voiceover I do LOVE the monitor jack and the slider. The slider will let you balance what comes into your monitor (your earbuds, headphones, whatever you plug in to the jack) so you can choose how much of the mic versus the PC comes into your ears. This gets important because if you rely on the PC to feed your voice back to you, there is a slight signal delay that can get awkward. You don't have to use the monitor, and it doesn't affect the act of recording. Hope that helps!
Question: Does this work with windows 10? I need someone who actually uses it on win10 machine, not someone selling them. I have at2020 not working w/ win
Answer: Yes, I'm running Windows 10 with Audacity recording software. By the way, with this one-directional mic, it's very important to be speaking INTO THE BLUE LIGHT behind the screen. That's the one-directional "sweet spot." And, you didn't ask, but I record (as do most of my professional colleagues now stuck at home) into the free software "Audacity." Some have found that If you plug in the mic AFTER you load Audacity, it may not recognize AT2020+ as a microphone choice, and while it may still record, the results will be unsatisfactory. If or when that happens, just restart Audacity AFTER plugging the USB into your computer and click on the AT2020+ option.
Question: Is this a one-directional mic? I was told that a one-directional mic is best for recording podcasts
Answer: Yes, and it's very important to be speaking INTO THE BLUE LIGHT behind the screen. That's the one-directional "sweet spot." And, you didn't ask, but I record (as do most of my professional colleagues now stuck at home) into the free software "Audacity." Some have found that If you plug in the mic AFTER you load Audacity, it may not recognize AT2020+ as a microphone choice and while it may still record, the results will be unsatisfactory. If or when that happens, just restart Audacity AFTER plugging the USB into your computer and click on the AT2020+ option.
Question: is it possible to listen to a downloaded .mp3 instrumental (NOT instrument) on my PC and hear that while i record over it using this mic
Answer: Yes, using the monitor dial on mic itself, toggling between PC sound and your own, or setting accordingly until balance suites you. (using plugged in headphones into mic)

Product features

For Digital Recording Use

Condenser microphone with USB output.

Superb Audio Quality

High-quality A/D converter with 16 bit, 44.1/48 kHz sampling rate.

Mix Control & Volume Control

Mix control allows you to blend your microphone signal and pre-recorded audio; headphone jack volume control allows you to monitor the microphone signal with no delay.

Smooth, Extended Frequency Response

Ideally suited for podcasting, home studio recording, field recording and voiceover use.

USB Compatibility

Windows 7, Vista, XP, 2000 and Mac OS X.

Accessories Furnished

Pivoting stand mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands; 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 threaded adapter; soft protective pouch; tripod desk stand; 10' (3.1 m) USB cable.

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