Which headphones do streamers really use - and why? We don't answer this question with assumptions, but with real data from our StreamingEquip database. There, we continuously record the equipment of hundreds of streamers and analyze which devices are used particularly frequently in the scene. All graphics in this article are updated automatically as soon as new data is added.
This means that no matter when you read this article, you will always see the current status, Which headphones streamers will use most frequently in 2025, which brands are particularly popular and how trends such as wireless audio are developing.
Headphones play a crucial role in streaming. They influence the perception of the game, the quality of your own monitoring, comfort during long live streams and even the atmosphere in the setup. This makes it all the more exciting to see which models and technologies really prevail in practice.
The most used headphones among streamers
Let's first take a look at the graphic with the Top 10 most frequently used headphones. It is immediately apparent that Beyerdynamic clearly dominates. The first four places all come from the same manufacturer - an extremely rare market share that shows how strongly studio headphones have established themselves in the streaming scene.
Why do so many streamers opt for these models? The main reason is the Studio approach, which Beyerdynamic has been pursuing for decades. The headphones are designed for precise sound, maximum durability and high wearing comfort. They therefore meet the exact requirements of daily streaming: many hours at the desk, repeated putting on and taking off, clear localization in the game and neutral sound for content editing.
Another common feature of the most commonly used models is the Over-ear design. They completely enclose the ear and therefore offer better noise isolation and a more complete sound image. This is a huge advantage, especially in noisy environments or when monitoring games, music and chat at the same time.
Many gaming headsets that advertise surround sound or artificially amplified bass frequencies are surprisingly rarely used. Instead, in practice, streamers prefer to use studio headsets with neutral, unadulterated sound, as this is much more precise in gaming.
If you want to see which headphones are currently at the top of the list, you can find them on our overview page The best streaming headphones a constantly updated list directly from our database.
Why Beyerdynamic is so dominant among streamers
The data speaks for itself: Beyerdynamic is by far the most popular headphone brand among streamers. Studio series in particular have been at the top of the charts for years - and for good reason.
1. studio sound instead of marketing sound
While many gaming headsets offer heavily emphasized bass or virtual surround effects, Beyerdynamic delivers a neutral, honest sound, which is ideal for gaming and content production. Enemy location is more precise, voices are clearer and music sounds more natural.
2. extremely durable
The headphones are known for their robust workmanship. Metal earpieces, stable joints and replaceable parts ensure that many models can be used for years - despite daily wear and tear.
3. high level of comfort over many hours
The large ear pads and ergonomic design allow them to be worn for several hours without pressure points or fatigue. A decisive factor for streamers.
4. flexibility for individual setups
Many models are available in different ohm variants so that they can be used optimally with audio interfaces as well as with simple mixing consoles or PCs.
This mixture of quality, comfort and durability explains why Beyerdynamic occupies several places in your data - and why so many streamers stay with the same brand even after years.
The most popular headphone brands
In addition to the specific models, the graphic of the Top 5 headphone brands, how the market is distributed. Although Beyerdynamic is the clear leader, other brands are also important for the streaming scene.
Beyerdynamic
The clear number one. Studio quality, reliability and wearing comfort are its greatest strengths.
Sennheiser
Sennheiser has been one of the leading audio brands for decades, especially in the professional sector. Their open studio headphones offer exceptional spatial imaging, which makes them attractive to many streamers.
SteelSeries
SteelSeries is strongly represented in the classic gaming sector. Their headsets are comfortable, well-made and particularly popular in the e-sports environment. Many streamers who are looking for a mixture of gaming look and good audio quality go for them.
What all these brands have in common is that they have a very high profile in the high trust factor enjoy. Many streamers have sponsorship deals with individual manufacturers, but the data from our database clearly shows that even without sponsorship, there would be little change in brand distribution, as quality is paramount.
Wireless or wired - what do streamers prefer?
The next chart shows the proportion of Wireless vs. wired headphones. The result is clear: Only a small proportion of streamers use wireless models - and for understandable reasons.
Why cables are so popular:
- Zero latency
- No battery worries during long streams
- Better sound quality as a rule
- Studio headphones are usually wired
- Reliable connection without interference
Wireless is becoming increasingly important in the technology market, but absolute stability is crucial for streaming. An audio dropout or a flat battery in the middle of a stream is more than just annoying.
Why wireless is still growing slowly:
- Convenience without cables
- Cleaner setups
- Good models with a stable 2.4 GHz connection
But in practice, cable is clearly ahead. This is very clearly reflected in your data.
What makes good streaming headphones?
Choosing the right headphones depends not only on the brand, but also on the features that are really important in everyday streaming.
Studio-compatible sound
Streamers prefer clear, neutral sound instead of artificially amplified bass. Localization in the game must be precise, voices in voice chat should sound clear and monitoring must remain honest.
Comfort over many hours
Long streams require headphones that are light and do not pinch. Soft padding, good weight distribution and breathable materials play a major role here.
Longevity
Robust construction and replaceable pads are crucial. Many studio headphones last for several years with daily use.
Simple integration into the setup
Streamers use audio interfaces, mixing consoles or DACs. Headphones that can be connected flexibly are better suited to complex setups.
Over-ear or in-ear - what do streamers really use?
A clear trend from our database: The overwhelming majority of streamers use over-ear headphones.
Why over-ear is so popular:
- Better sound image
- Precise localization
- High comfort
- Good noise insulation
- Perfect for long sessions
Why in-ears are rare:
- Less pleasant over many hours
- Less spatial sound
- Less robust
- More difficult to combine with audio monitoring
In-ears are more frequently used by E-sports professionals that combine two audio sources (in-ear for Teamspeak, over-ear as noise protection). However, they tend to be the exception for classic streaming.
Conclusion - Which headphones suit you as a streamer?
Our data clearly show this: Studio headphones are the clear number one in streaming.
Beyerdynamic dominates in terms of sound, comfort and durability, but brands such as Sennheiser and SteelSeries also play an important role.
Wireless models are improving, but remain a minority because cables are simply more reliable for streaming. Over-ear models are clearly gaining ground because they are more comfortable and deliver a more complete sound image.
If you are looking for headphones yourself, we recommend:
Bet on Comfort, Sound quality and Reliability. And take a look at the data - because real use says more than any data sheet.
You can find all current models here:
👉 The best streaming headphones
