You’re lining up the perfect headshot… but the sound of the gun fires just a split second after you click. That tiny delay could cost you the win and it’s all because of latency.
Let’s break down what latency is, why it happens, and how gaming mode (and the right gear) can make a huge difference.
What Is Latency?
Latency is the delay between an action and the moment you hear or see it happen.
In gaming, this can mean:
-
Audio latency → The sound lags behind the action.
-
Input latency → Your commands (like pressing a button) take a fraction longer to register.
-
Display latency → Frames take longer to appear on screen.
For audio, even a delay of 100 milliseconds can feel “off” — especially in rhythm games, shooters, and competitive play.
Why Wireless Audio Usually Has More Latency
Bluetooth sends sound data in chunks, compressing and then decompressing it before you hear it. This takes time.
Factors that affect wireless latency:
-
Bluetooth version
-
Codec used (e.g., SBC, AAC, aptX Low Latency)
-
Interference from other devices
How Gaming Mode Helps
Many gaming headsets and earbuds have a low-latency gaming mode that:
-
Prioritizes speed over sound compression
-
Reduces delay from ~200ms to as low as ~40ms
-
Keeps audio in sync with visuals
The trade-off? Slightly higher power use, but it’s worth it for smooth, responsive gameplay.
Why Some Devices Feel “Snappier”
It’s not just latency, refresh rate also plays a role.
-
Refresh rate = How many times per second your screen updates (e.g., 60Hz, 120Hz, 240Hz).
-
Higher refresh rates mean smoother visuals, making controls feel more instant.
Combine low latency audio with a high refresh rate display, and your gaming experience jumps to a whole new level.
Final Word — and Why HAVIT NEO Wins
If you want near-zero audio delay, even wirelessly, you need gear that bypasses Bluetooth’s usual limitations.
That’s where the Zenix Pro shines.
With its Type-C wireless dongle, it delivers ultra-low latency performance without sacrificing sound quality, so every shot, footstep, and soundtrack stays perfectly in sync.
Ready for lag-free gaming? Check out the HAVIT NEO TW980 and hear the difference for yourself.