Bluetooth Headsets Impair Gaming Performance, Engadget Warns

According to Engadget, standard Bluetooth adds roughly 200ms of audio latency in real-world use, though the exact figure varies by codec, device and implementation. Some low-latency codecs can reduce this delay, but support is inconsistent. That delay can effectively double the time it takes to respond to an audio cue, since the average human auditory reaction time is between 170 and 220ms. Gunshots, footsteps and other critical sounds may arrive late enough to throw off a player's reaction.

Another cited downside is audio degradation during voice chat. Activating the microphone forces Bluetooth to switch to a low-bandwidth profile, severely reducing game sound quality. On consoles like the PS5, native Bluetooth audio is not supported at all, requiring workarounds.

The report contrasts this with 2.4GHz wireless headsets, which use a USB dongle to create a dedicated wireless link. Most gaming-grade models achieve latency under 20ms, which is fast enough that most players cannot distinguish it from wired. These headsets also have more bandwidth for higher-quality audio. However, they tend to be considerably more expensive than basic wired alternatives, and some models work only with specific consoles.

Wired headsets remain a strong option, according to Engadget, offering negligible latency, no battery to charge and no risk of wireless dropouts. They also often deliver better sound quality than wireless alternatives at the same price point. Wired audio is compatible with modern console controllers via their 3.5mm jacks, with only negligible added latency.

Engadget concludes that when shopping for a gaming headset, the key is to focus on low latency and reliable audio quality. For players who care most about performance, wired is the safest choice, with 2.4GHz wireless the best balance for those who want to cut the cable without the downsides of Bluetooth.