Why Do So Many Streamers Use the Same Pair of Headphones?

If you’ve ever tuned into a popular stream on Twitch, YouTube, or any other platform, you may have noticed something interesting: many streamers, regardless of their content focus, seem to use the same pair of headphones — specifically, the Beyerdynamic DT990 Pros. These headphones became iconic in the streaming world after being popularized by none other than Ninja during his meteoric rise to fame.

But what exactly makes the DT990 Pros so appealing to streamers? More importantly, are they really the best option, or are there better alternatives? Let’s dive into why so many people swear by these headphones, why they might not be for everyone, and which alternatives might be worth considering.

Why Streamers Love the DT990 Pros

1. Open-Back Design: Better Awareness of Your Voice

One of the biggest reasons streamers opt for the DT990 Pros is their open-back design. Open-back headphones allow air and sound to flow more freely through the ear cups, creating a more natural listening experience. This is especially useful for streamers because it means the game audio isn’t entirely “trapped” inside the headphones.

When you stream, you need to be aware of your own voice as you speak. Closed-back headphones can make your voice sound muffled or cause you to shout unintentionally because you can’t hear yourself properly. With open-back headphones like the DT990 Pros, you get a better sense of how you sound in real-time. This makes it easier to balance your voice with the game audio without disturbing your audience.

2. Great for Gaming Audio

Another reason the DT990 Pros are popular in the streaming community is their high-frequency response. These headphones are particularly good at picking up detailed sounds, which is crucial in competitive gaming. Gamers rely on audio cues like footsteps, weapon reloads, or distant gunfire to stay one step ahead of their opponents. The DT990 Pros excel in this area by providing crisp and clear audio, which can offer a tactical advantage in games.

3. Affordability and Durability

For a pair of high-quality headphones, the Beyerdynamic DT990 Pros are relatively affordable. Compared to many audiophile-grade options, these headphones offer an excellent balance between performance and price, making them accessible to streamers who want a professional setup without breaking the bank.

Additionally, Beyerdynamic has a reputation for building durable headphones. The DT990 Pros are known for their sturdy build, which is essential for streamers who wear their headphones for extended periods daily.

The Downsides: Why They’re Not for Everyone

Despite their popularity, the DT990 Pros aren’t without their flaws. In fact, not every streamer finds them to be the perfect fit. Here are some common complaints and reasons why some choose to upgrade to a different model.

1. Comfort Issues Over Time

While the cushioning on the DT990 Pros is generally comfortable, it’s worth noting that it tends to wear down quickly with regular use. For streamers who are live for hours on end, this can lead to discomfort over time.

A good pair of headphones should feel just as comfortable after a long session as they do when you first put them on. Unfortunately, the padding on the DT990 Pros can flatten out and lose its softness, which can be frustrating for streamers who need long-term comfort.

2. Sharp, Fatiguing Sound

Although the high-frequency response is a strength for competitive gaming, it’s also a major downside for general listening. The DT990 Pros have been criticized for their sharp treble, which can be fatiguing over time.

For people who enjoy listening to music or who want a more natural sound experience, this sharpness can be unpleasant. While they excel in delivering detailed audio, the sound signature may not be the most enjoyable for everyone. Streamers who want versatility for gaming and casual listening often find themselves seeking alternatives with a more balanced sound.

3. Not Ideal for All Environments

The open-back design of the DT990 Pros, while beneficial in certain scenarios, also means that sound leaks both in and out of the headphones. If you’re streaming in a quiet environment, this may not be an issue. However, for streamers who deal with background noise or need privacy, the open-back design can be a drawback.

Why I Switched: Enter the HiFiMAN Sundara

After using the DT990 Pros for some time, I decided to upgrade to the HiFiMAN Sundara headphones, and here’s why:

1. More Natural Sound

The Sundaras, which are also open-back, have a far more natural sound signature than the DT990 Pros. While the DT990s emphasize high frequencies, the Sundaras deliver a more balanced and pleasant sound across the spectrum. This makes them ideal not just for gaming but also for general use, whether it’s listening to music or watching movies.

The DT990 Pros’ sharp treble might be useful for competitive gaming, but for someone like me who spends hours streaming and consuming media, that sharpness becomes tiring. The Sundaras, on the other hand, provide a much more comfortable listening experience, even over extended sessions.

2. Even More Open-Back

Another benefit is that the Sundaras are even more open-back than the DT990 Pros, meaning you can hear your voice even more clearly. This is perfect for streamers who need to be constantly aware of their speaking volume. The trade-off, of course, is that they leak even more sound than the DT990 Pros, but for me, the improved comfort and sound quality outweigh that concern.

3. Higher Price, But Worth It

Now, here’s the catch: the Sundaras come with a higher price tag — almost double the price of the DT990 Pros. While this may be a dealbreaker for some, I personally found the investment to be worth it. If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that offer both exceptional sound quality and comfort for long streaming sessions, the Sundaras are a fantastic choice.

Final Thoughts: Which Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the Beyerdynamic DT990 Pros are popular among streamers for a reason. They offer a great combination of affordability, sound quality, and functionality for streaming. However, they’re not without their flaws, and some streamers, like myself, find that there are better options out there — like the HiFiMAN Sundara.

If you’re a competitive gamer or streamer who prioritizes high-frequency sound and needs an affordable solution, the DT990 Pros could be the right fit. But if you’re willing to spend a bit more for a more natural sound and increased comfort, the Sundaras might be the better option.

In the end, it all comes down to your personal preferences and what you value most in a pair of headphones. Whether you stick with the popular DT990 Pros or explore higher-end options, make sure to choose a pair that will make your streaming experience as enjoyable as possible.

Ultimately, choosing the right pair of headphones for streaming comes down to individual needs and preferences. The DT990 Pros have become a favorite among streamers for their affordability, open-back design, and clear high-frequency sound, making them ideal for competitive gaming and long streaming sessions. However, they aren't without their flaws, particularly when it comes to comfort over time and their sharp, fatiguing treble.

On the other hand, higher-end models like the HiFiMAN Sundara offer a more natural, balanced sound and even greater open-back performance, though at a higher cost. For those who want the best of both worlds—comfort, quality, and versatility—the investment may be well worth it.

At the end of the day, whether you stick with the popular DT990 Pros or opt for something like the Sundaras, the most important thing is to find a pair of headphones that enhances your overall streaming experience. After all, as a streamer, your comfort and ability to provide great content to your audience should always come first.