When most people think of HP, they think of printers, servers, desktop computers, and laptops. The company also has a gaming line — OMEN by HP — which not only includes gaming rigs but also gaming peripherals. Our OMEN by HP 800 review takes a look at their latest wired gaming headset suitable for PC, console, mobile, and other audio listening use.
Specifications
The Omen by HP 800 gaming headset has the following features and specifications:
- Immersive soundscape: With a large diameter, the 53mm driver produces each and every footstep with amazing clarity.
- Multi-dimensional audio: Select the custom DTS Headphone:X® profile built into most OMEN PCs for a heightened surround sound experience.
- Supreme comfort: Lightweight suspension headband evenly distributes its weight for incredible comfort during extended gameplay.
- Connector: Wired, 3.5 mm audio jack
- Compatibility: Works with PCs and other devices that support 3.5mm audio output
- Drivers: 53mm neodymium driver
- Headset sensitivity: 98dB at 1KHz
- Microphone sensitivity: 61dB
- Cable length: 6.6′ (2m)
- Y-adapter length: 5.5″
- Dimensions: 8.07 x 8.58 x 4.49 in
- Weight: 0.95 lb
- Warranty: Rest easy with an HP standard one-year limited warranty.
What’s in the box
- OMEN Headset 800
- Dual 3.5mm to single 4-pole adapter
- Quick Start Guide
- Warranty card
- Product notice
- OMEN by HP logo sticker
Design
The OMEN by HP 800 gaming headset is one of those that has the floating headband, something not seen in more affordable headsets. The main headband frame is constructed from thin, but sturdy, metal. A pair of thin bands end on either side with an inverted semi-circle which attaches to each earcup. Just above this is a hard plastic piece with an L or R on the outside. On the inside of this piece is where the floating leatherette covered headband is connected to the rest of the frame.
This headband adjusts automatically when placed on your head to the “proper” height. I use that term loosely (pun intended) because, well, occasionally the headset felt too loose. This was easily rectified by moving the earcups up slightly. During extended gaming sessions, I didn’t find it uncommon to adjust the headset numerous times. Personally, I would rather see a “clicky” type adjustment so you can be assured that the headphones sit where you want them for the entire gaming session.
The over-ear earcups are rather large — 3 ¾” on the outside and 4″ on the inside — and, as previously mentioned, are attached to the metal frame. The earcups tilt inwards and outwards slightly but do not rotate. There is enough flex in the thin metal frame, however, that this is a minor issue and still allows for a fairly comfortable fit. Printed on the outside of the earcups in a small disc in the center is the red OMEN by HP logo, which I can’t help but think of Nazeebo from Heroes of the Storm when I look at it. Surrounding this centerpiece is a perforated metal ring which adds to the gaming-inspired look of the headset.
On the inside of the earcups, you’ll find the nice thick, leatherette padded earpads. The earpads are quite soft and, again, comfortable when worn for an extended period of time. The wires which go from the earcups to the floating headband add a touch of red colour to the headset and housed in a braided cable.
Near the front of the left earcup is where the retractable microphone is located. When fully retracted, the microphone portion still sticks out but is pretty non-descript. When fully extended, the very flexible red arm of the microphone is easily adjustable and ties into the subtle black and red colour scheme. The long braided 3.5mm audio cable is also located on the left earcup. An inline remote (roughly ¾” x 1 ¼”) sits about one foot down the cable and houses a microphone mute switch and volume dial. The cable continues for just over another four feet before splitting off into smaller microphone and headphone braided cables ending in 3.5mm audio connectors. If you don’t have a PC with dual audio/microphone ports or are using the headset with a game controller or mobile device, a dual 3.5mm to single 4-pole adapter is also included in the box.
The OMEN by HP 800 gaming headset looks the part and is pretty solidly built with its combination of metal, sturdy plastic, and braided cables.
Sound Quality
Great sound is paramount for gaming sessions for a number of reasons ranging from a more immersive experience to being able to hear footsteps of enemies in multiplayer. The OMEN by HP 800 is compatible with the DTS Headphone X setting on select OMEN gaming PCs which, unfortunately, we don’t have to test on. However, the default sound produced by the 53mm drivers on this gaming headset is more than acceptable with a pretty even balance between lows, mids, and highs. Various game sounds and important audio cues were easily noticed and audio was crisp and clear. Even at maximum volumes there was no distortion, although you probably don’t want to be using these at full volume for very long.
Of course, having a 3.5mm audio jack allows these to be used with mobile and other devices. When listening to music with the OMEN by HP 800 gaming headset, music sounded rich and full with that same balance between lows, mids, and highs. In addition, even at lower volumes, they do a decent job of keeping outside noises and sounds out. It goes the other way as well, even though they get quite loud at full volume and you can hear them from a distance away when set on a table, when worn you shouldn’t have to worry about disturbing others with your gaming sounds or music.
Microphone/Voice Quality
If you do a lot of multiplayer gaming then microphone quality is just as equally important as good sound. In the case of the OMEN by HP 800 headset, the microphone was crisp and clear and other members in my party while testing had no issues in hearing me clearly while speaking.
Price/Value
With an MSRP of $79.99USD, the OMEN by HP 800 is a very reasonably priced gaming headset. In addition, HP has a 20% off sale if you purchase them from their website which drops the price down to $63.99. Even better, it can be found for as low as $54.98 on Amazon which really puts it into impulse buy territory if you’re looking for a decent sounding PC gaming headset that’s not going to break the bank.
Wrap-up
The OMEN by HP 800 is a very affordable, decent sounding gaming headset albeit a bit loose fitting on occasion. I definitely don’t like my headsets squeezing tightly on my head but I also shouldn’t have to adjust them numerous times during extended gaming or listening sessions. That being said, it’s pretty minor when you consider the overall comfort, sound, and price of this wired gaming headset.
