How Long Does a Gaming Headset Last?

With the advent of the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Wii game consoles, online gaming has exploded in popularity. All three systems offer the ability to play against other users online, and nearly every major title, from "Halo: Reach" and "Mario Kart" to "Uncharted 3," offers some form of multiplayer interaction online. To converse with your teammates during an online match, a gaming headset is required.

Headsets

A headset used in gaming typically consists of a set of headphones with a microphone attached. Headsets come in two varieties: wired and wireless. Various manufacturers produce headphones, such as Logitech, Tritton and Sennheiser. As a rule of thumb, the higher-priced headset models offer the best sound quality, both in the headphones and the microphone. The type of headset used on your gaming system depends on the system you are using.

PC Headsets

On the PC, a few different types of headsets are available. USB headsets connect to a USB port on your computer; other devices attach directly to your sound card. Some popular games that utilize headsets include "World of Warcraft," in which speech is often used in place of text during hard dungeon encounters, and "Battlefield 3," in which a gaming headset can be used to quickly issue orders to your team.

Console Headsets

On the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and the Wii, your gaming headset can vary depending on the console you are using. A wired gaming headset is included with every Xbox 360 purchase and connects to the bottom of the Xbox 360 controller. A wireless headset is also available but sold separately. For the PlayStation 3, any wired USB headset or Bluetooth headset can be used with the system, but a factory headset is not included. For the Nintendo Wii, the few headsets available must be purchased separately and all connect via a USB cable.

Care and Maintenance of Gaming Headsets

Regardless of the type of headset you are using, how long you can expect it to last depends on how you treat it. If given proper care, headsets can last for years or even decades, regardless of the make or model. Never throw, slam or subject your headset to blunt force, which can damage the internal components. Store your headset in a safe place when not in use; a common cause of breakage is when the band connecting the headphones snaps as the result of being left in a careless location, such as on the floor. Avoid spilling liquid on your headset, as fluid can short-circuit the device.