4 Best Gaming Headsets for Kids

When purchasing a gaming headset for your kids, you have to consider a different set of features than that are typically found in gaming headsets for adults.

Instead of focusing on features like surround sound, RGB lighting, sound customization options, mic quality, gaming platform compatibility, and separate volume control for chat and in-game volume, you should focus on factors that would prevent hearing loss in kids, provide a comfortable listening experience, and offer a good listening experience.

What to Look for When Selecting a Gaming Headset for Kids

1. Volume-Limiting – Unlike adults, kids’ ears are much more sensitive to sound and prolonged exposure to audio at high decibels can result in premature hearing loss. In fact, WHO recommends a maximum loudness level of 85 dB for headphones because it is safe to listen at this volume for 8 hours straight. However, if the continuous listening time is limited to 2 hours or less, a loudness level of up to 93 dB is safe. 

For reference, normal headphones can get as loud as 120 dB, which can be disastrous for kids. Thus, whether you are purchasing a kid-friendly headset for gaming, daily use, or education and concentration, it should definitely feature a volume-limiting function.

2. Sound Quality – Just like adults, kids also prefer to use headsets that offer great sound quality. They would stop using a headset if the sound is not great even if it looks cool.

Generally, it is recommended to purchase a headset that features a neutral sound signature and clean acoustics since the combination is enjoyable for both music listening and gaming. 

3. Audio Sharing Interface – Kids tend to fight over toys and gadgets because they want to join in on the fun. This is especially true for siblings. Sometimes, it can become a costly affair when you have to purchase a duplicate of each product. Fortunately, many headsets for kids have an audio sharing functionality that allows multiple users to connect with the headset and listen to the same music. 

Typically, these headsets come with an extra audio jack and a sharing interface such as an extra audio port on the ear cup.

4. Noise Reduction – Most kid-friendly headsets are designed to offer passive noise isolation in order to block external noise. A reduction in environmental noise eliminates the need to increase the volume. However, if you want to go one step further, you can look for a headset that features Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) since these are better at blocking external noise such as low-frequency sound.

5. Connection Type – A wireless headset is easier to use and travel with because you don’t have to worry about untangling cords. However, they are more expensive. If you are worried about your kid talking with strangers during an online gaming session, you should look for headphones instead of headsets. 

Alternatively, you can purchase headphones with in-line mic that only work when connected to mobile phones and don’t work when connected to PC, PS4, or any other gaming console.

6. Design Type – Kid-friendly headsets should feature a comfortable design. Thus, it should be lightweight, feature plush ear pads, have a reasonable clamping force, and adjustable headband. It is better if they are made with non-toxic materials since younger kids tend to bite things. And, the headset should also be durable enough to withstand rage throws and accidental falls.

Here is a comparison table of the 5 best gaming headsets for kids

Name	Puro Sound Labs BT2200	LilGadgets Untangled PRO	Puro JuniorJams	Puro Quiets	Mpow CH6s
Connection Type	Wireless	Wireless	Wireless	Wireless	Wired
Share Interface	Daisy Chain Technology	SharePort Technology	Daisy Chain Technology	Daisy Chain Technology	Happy Sharing Technology
volume-limiting	Volume limited to 85 dB	Volume limited to 93 dB	Volume limited to 85 dB	Volume limited to 85 dB	Volume limited to 85dB, 95dB
Design type	On-ear	On-ear	On-ear	On-ear	On-ear
Battery Life	18 Hours	12 Hours	22 Hours	35 Hours (23 Hours with ANC)	–
Noise Reduction Technology Type	Passive Noise Isolation	Passive Noise Isolation	Passive Noise Isolation	Active Noise Cancellation	Passive Noise Isolation
Mic	Built-in Mic	Built-in Mic	Built-in Mic	Built-in Mic	Built-in Mic
Price	Latest Price on Amazon	Latest Price on Amazon	Latest Price on Amazon	Latest Price on Amazon	Latest Price on Amazon

Puro Sound Labs BT2200: Best overall

Puro Sound Labs is one of the most well-known manufacturers of volume-limiting headphones and the Puro Sound Labs BT2200 is their most popular product. It combines style, durability, safety, comfort, and sound quality all into one amazing product that protects growing ears. The headset is suitable for ages 3 and up.

The design of the product is quite attractive and it comes in many different color choices including ‘Sapphire Blue’, ‘Hot Pink’, ‘Light Teal’, and ‘Lime Green’ that have a metallic-luster appearance. The product is made with AL6063 aluminum that is lightweight but also tough enough to withstand rough handling. The adjustable headband and the ear cups come covered in the same cushioned material. Thus, they are quite comfortable to wear. Plus, you have the option to purchase over-ear cups to replace the on-ear cups.

The left ear cup features a light indicator, a multi-function Bluetooth button, the on/off switch, volume up and down buttons, a 3.5 mm audio port, and a charging port. The latest version of the product supports the ‘Daisy Chain Sharing’ technology that allows two users to connect with the same device by using the supplied ‘Daisy Chain’ cable.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqOwFfwbLUk

Despite featuring an on-ear design, the BT2200 passively blocks ambient noise by up to 83% to provide good noise isolation. Plus, it has a maximum volume output level of 85 dB as recommended by OSHA, Hearing Health Foundation, and WHO. 

The 40mm custom dynamic drivers of BT2200 offer studio-grade sound quality that will definitely please kids and even some adults. The patent-pending Puro Balanced Response Curve makes it possible to produce dynamic bass, and crisp, clear vocals even with the volume-limiting ear protection hardware. Thus, whether your kids use the product to listen to music or play their favorite games such as ‘Minecraft’ or ‘Fortnite’, they are sure to have fun.

The wireless functionality of the device works flawlessly for up to 30 feet as it supports Bluetooth 5.0. The battery life of the product is quite good with a playtime of up to 20 hours and a standby time of up to 200 hours. However, you can use the supplied 3.5mm Puro Limiter audio cable to use the device in wired mode if it runs out of power. 

LilGadgets Untangled PRO: Best Comfort

LilGadgets is another company that specializes in manufacturing kid-friendly headsets. The LilGadgets Untangled PRO is one of their premium headsets that provide the ultimate comfort. The headset is suitable for kids ages 4 and up.

The headset comes in 10 different color options that include black, blue, white, green, pink, purple, ‘Snow Camo’, ‘Far Out Doodle’, ‘Rainbow Cat’, and ‘Digital Camo’. The ear pads and interior of the headband are made with SoftTouch™ Fabric material that provides great comfort and a delicate feel while also offering good durability. 

LilGadgets follows the Voluntary ASTM International Standards and is CPSC Toy compliant. It is made with industrial-grade stainless steel that has a high fatigue and wear resistance. The exterior is coated with polycarbonate that improves build quality and maintains the luster over time. The headband is safely adjustable, non-pinching, and the cushioning is snag-free. Plus, it also features a safe-release jack.

Unlike other kid-friendly headsets that follow the industry-standard volume safety level of 85 dB, the Untangled PRO limits maximum volume at 93 dB. The philosophy of the company is to limit the volume, not the performance. This is not something to be alarmed about since the compounding factor for hearing damages is duration. It is safe to continuously listen to a maximum volume of 93 dB for 1-2 hours with breaks of at least 10 mins.

On the plus side, these headsets are more suitable for outdoor use since most ambient sound levels are above 85 dB. The Untangled PRO also features passive noise reduction that brings down the external noise levels by 13 dB. Thus, these are perfect for use at a house party, restaurant, car travel, or even air travel. 

The 40mm drivers produce decent bass and rich vocals. The treble can sound a little sharp at times but it brings more clarity when playing games such as ‘The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild’ and ‘Rocket League’.

The wireless headset features Bluetooth 4.0 and works within a range of 30 feet. The LilGadgets SharePort technology allows multiple headsets to connect to one audio source without the need for any splitters. The built-in 360^o  mic works nicely too. The device offers a listening time of 12 hours and a standby time of 180 hours, which is quite decent.

Puro JuniorJams: Best Wireless

The Puro JuniorJam is the budget version of the Puro BT2200. It offers almost the same level of sound quality and comfort as that of the BT2200 but differs in Bluetooth technology, design, and build quality. The headset is suitable for kids between 2-13 years.

The JuniorJam is available in only 4 different color versions — blue, green, pink, and teal. The earpads and headband of the headset are made of plush vegan leather that provides great comfort. The headband is adjustable but the earpads are not replaceable like the BT2200. Also, instead of an aluminum frame, the JuniorJams feature a high-quality plastic frame. So, it requires more delicate handling than the BT2200 but the build quality of the product is decent nonetheless.

The JuniorJams have a volume output limit of 85 dB. Thus, it is possible to use the product for listening to music, watching videos, or playing games for up to 8 hours without damaging the ears. The ambient noise reduction design reduces external noise by 87% which provides a better listening experience.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9Vr7_Alm-Q

The sound signature of the JuniorJam is quite similar to the BT2200 as well. There is no distortion at high volume and you can hear every musical instrument and vocals in crisp, clear detail. However, the bass is not as good and doesn’t provide the same thumping feel. Regardless, it was great to use the headset when playing games such as ‘TowerFall’ and ‘Rayman Legends’.

The ‘Daisy Chain Sharing’ technology works just as flawlessly as the BT2200 and allows multiple kids to join in on the fun when playing games, watching movies, or listening to their favorite music.

It features Bluetooth 4.0 technology and works efficiently within a distance of 30 feet from the audio source. If you don’t like using the device in wireless mode, the 3.5mm limited audio cable allows you to use the device in wired mode. The battery life of the product is better than BT2200. You can expect a playback time of up to 22 hours and a standby time of up to 200 hours.

PuroQuiets: Best Noise Reduction 

PuroQuiets is a headset developed by Puro Sound labs that feature Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology. The device has a maximum volume limit of 85 dB which prevents noise-induced hearing loss or partial hearing damage in kids due to hearing headsets for long periods. 

However, even with the low volume limit, it is one of the best kid-friendly headset for outdoor use and travel since the ANC technology reduces the ambient noise by up to 22 dB, which is further complemented by a design of the headset that passively reduces external noise by up to 78%. As a result, kids can play games or listen to music in loud environments without raising the volume level to the max.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZosMHShnpU

The PuroQuiets come in 6 color choices — blue, pink, red, teal, hot pink, and dark blue. It features the same AL6063 Aluminum frame as the Puro BT2200 that provides great durability and flexibility. The cushioning material is also the same as the BT2200 but the design of the ear cups is different. Some kids may not prefer the design and can feel less comfortable while wearing the headset.

The PuroQuiets sound great with ANC on. Although the ANC performance of the device is not as good as premium headphones, it is sufficient for kids and for a great music listening experience in a noisy setting. In fact, it was delightful to use the device when playing ‘Mario Kart 8’ and ‘Spelunky’ at a crowded restaurant.

The ‘Daisy Chain Sharing’ technology works as expected and the Bluetooth 4.0 wireless connection was quite stable as well. The best part of the headset is its exceptional battery life. Without ANC on, it offers a playtime of up to 35 hours, and with ANC on it offers a playtime of up to 23 hours. The standby time of the device is 200 hours.

Conclusion

As an adult and parent, you should never compromise the health of children, especially ear health because it is pretty easy to damage. Thus, when purchasing a gaming headset for children, be sure to confirm whether it has a volume-limiting feature and is made from food-grade, non-toxic materials at the least. Other features like audio sharing, noise-canceling, and aesthetic appeal are a plus but not a strict requirement.