Gaming headsets are an essential piece of equipment for all gaming setups. They not only enable you to listen to game audio and track the position of your enemies, but they also let you communicate with your teammates in real time. The market for gaming headsets has exploded in recent years thanks to the allure of positional audio and virtual surround sound, as well as improved wireless headset technology. Traditionally, there has been a large gap in sound quality between studio-grade headphones and gaming headsets. However, in recent years, pro streamers and gamers have gradually embraced gaming headsets with more balanced soundscapes. Some others have even transitioned to using open-back headphones as their primary gaming headset.
The best gaming headsets also offer features that headphones lack, such as built-in microphones, easy-access buttons, and RGB lighting. Brands like Razer, SteelSeries, Logitech, and Turtle Beach offer diverse wired and wireless headset options at various price points. While some of these have unique features that set them apart from the competition, most of them focus on delivering the best audio quality for the price. With quite a few options to choose from, finding the best gaming headset to meet a listener's specific needs is often frustrating. Fortunately, Game ZXC has put together this handy guide to help make the decision a bit easier.
Updated on June 2nd, 2024, by Vineet Washington: Some more information has been highlighted to better describe the potential of these gaming headsets. The 'best wireless' option has been removed for consistency, as the best overall gaming headset is already wireless. The "How to Choose the Best Gaming Headset" section has been tweaked to show more information, to help make the purchase decision easier.
Looking for the best mouse to pair with your headset? Check out our guides for the best gaming mouse, best budget gaming mouse, and best wireless gaming mouse.
Game ZXC's Picks for the Best Gaming Headsets in 2024
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Gaming Headset
The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless gaming headset from SteelSeries is a serious gamer's tool. A gamer who wants the convenience and quality of a feature-rich wireless gaming headset need not look elsewhere. The headset's premium high-fidelity drivers deliver a clear soundscape and a fully customizable experience with the Sonar Software. It supports 360-degree spatial audio for a more immersive gaming experience and helps users hear every audio cue around them clearly.
With active noise-canceling technology enhanced by a four-mic hybrid system, gamers can use transparency mode to tune out any annoying background noises.
- Microphone
- Retractable, Noise-cancelling
- Compatibility
- PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Bluetooth Devices
- Brand
- SteelSeries
- Surround Sound
- Yes
- Noise Cancellation
- Active
- Weight
- 339 grams
- Battery Life
- 36+ hours with swappable battery
- Ear Cushions
- Vegan Leather & Memory Foam
- Frequency Response
- 10–22,000 Hz
- Driver
- 40 mm Neodymium
- Up to 38-hour battery life with swappable battery
- Good noise cancellation
- Stunning audio quality
- PC software needs refinement
Our pick for overall best gaming headset has to excel in many areas, including sound quality, while showcasing the latest technologies. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless headset is the perfect choice if you demand the highest quality wireless audio on many platforms. Depending on whether you want to use the gaming headset with an Xbox or PS5 console, two different versions are available, but either works on PCs as a PC headset. Regardless of platform, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless employs high-fidelity 40mm drivers for powerful sound and convincing spatial audio to provide a more immersive gaming experience.
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The included Multi-System Connect DAC allows easy switching between multiple sources displaying vital information during use, which is a component that many gaming headsets lack. Also, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless offers Active Noise Cancellation to filter out background noise, a feature not found on other high-end competing models. Game ZXC found in its review of the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless headset that battery life was also exceptional, with swappable rechargeable batteries lasting up to 20 hours each. Furthermore, on top of the low latency 2.4GHz connection, this headset also comes with Bluetooth 5.0 allowing you to pair it with your phone or any mobile device.
With a soundscape rivaling the top-wired alternatives, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless should be every gamer's first gaming headset option. Want a mouse to compliment your headset? Check out our guide for the best SteelSeries gaming mice.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro is a headset for any gamer who demands the best in sound quality. Featuring its Nova Pro Acoustic System and Premium High Fidelity Drivers, the performance of the headset rises to another level with the included GameDac Gen 2. The GameDac includes multiple connections for PCs, consoles, and other devices, allowing users to seamlessly switch between sources. The retractable ClearCast Gen 2 noise-canceling microphone keeps communication between multiplayer gamers stable and free of interference.
- Microphone
- Retractable, Noise-Cancelling
- Brand
- SteelSeries
- Surround Sound
- Spatial 7.1
- Noise Cancellation
- Yes
- Compatibility
- PC, Xbox, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch
- Weight
- 298 grams
- Effective noise-cancelling
- User-friendly volume controls
- Long-lasting comfort
- Noise cancelling doesn't charge while tethered
- App is limited
SteelSeries has been in the business of making the best gaming headsets, peripherals, and accessories for over 20 years, and it shows with refined products that it releases. Their Arctis Nova Pro High Fidelity gaming headset is a prime example of that and one of the best wired gaming headsets available today, perfect for gamers who prefer to stay plugged in. The detachable microphone provides a near-studio quality experience and can be twisted in any direction. If paired with the SteelSeries GameDAC, the user can tweak an endless number of settings to fine-tune the audio to their liking. Along with its 40mm drivers, the Arctis Nova Pro boasts one of the largest frequency ranges of any gaming headset, with a spread between 10 Hz and 40kHz. This is super beneficial when hearing footsteps or other specific sound effects.
There are many reasons why some gamers prefer a wired gaming headset experience over a wireless one. A wired gaming headset offers the advantage of not worrying about lag, connection issues, or battery life. And when it comes to corded headsets, SteelSeries nailed it with their Arctis Nova Pro. The ergonomic headset is very comfortable, provides great sound, and has a cool, unique look. For these reasons and many more, the Arctis Pro would make a great addition to any gamer's at-home setup. For more wired gaming headset options, check out our guide for the best wired gaming headsets of 2024.
Razer Kraken V3 X Gaming Headset
The Razer Kraken V3 X is an ultra-comfortable and super lightweight gaming headset. A favorite of Esports competitors, the Kraken V3 X features Razer's TriForce 40mm drivers for equally balanced high, low, and mid-tones. On Microsoft Windows, spatial audio surrounds gamers with positional effects, alerting them of approaching danger.
The HyperClear Cardoid Mic captures voices directly at the mouth while Razer Chroma RGB effects give the headset a distinctive look at a budget price.
- Microphone
- HyperClear Cardioid Mic
- Compatibility
- PC, PlayStation
- What's Included
- Headset only
- Brand
- Razer
- Noise Cancellation
- None
- Weight
- 285 g
- Frequency Response
- 12 Hz – 28 kHz
- Outstanding value
- Comfortable hybrid fabric and memory foam ear cushions
- 2-year warranty
- Replacing earcups can be difficult
- Sound quality not as good as higher-end models
As with all Razer products, the Razer Kraken V3 X has a sleek design and black and green aesthetic. This budget gaming headset with Razer Chroma RGB lighting stands out even more because of its illuminated earcups. The unidirectional and bendable microphone efficiently picks up the player's voice rather than ambient sounds. The volume knob and mute button on the left earcup are easy to use, even in a stressful firefight. This gaming headset is excellent for beginners as it has everything they'll need to start gaming online without spending too much hard-earned money.
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Razer employed a hybrid fabric and memory foam material on the earcups to create comfortable and cost-efficient padding. Supplied with the 40mm Razer TriForce Driver and a frequency range of 12 Hz—28 kHz, the Kraken lives up to the company's high standards. Buyers wondering if there are any major drawbacks to such an affordable headset should check out Game ZXC's review of the Razer Kraken V3 X. Along with having impressive sound output, this gaming headset is fairly lightweight at 285 grams and while it is not the lightest on the market, the combination of weight and memory foam earcups make it comfortable to wear over long gaming sessions.
Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 2 MAX Gaming Headset
Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 2 MAX is a feature-rich gaming headset. The headset is compatible with Xbox consoles, PS5, PC, Nintendo Switch, and other platforms. It features a wireless, low-latency 2.4 GHz connection via a supplied adapter.
The Stealth 600 Gen 2 MAX headset has over 48 hours of battery life, a high-quality generation 2 microphone for clear voice communications, and amplified 50 mm speakers for powerful audio. It also supports the company's proprietary Superhuman Hearing feature.
- Microphone
- Flip-up Omni-Directional
- Compatibility
- Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, PC
- Brand
- Turtle Beach
- Weight
- 297 grams
- Battery Life
- 48+ hours
- Tremendous battery life
- Wireless USB dongle compatible with most consoles
- Voices sound natural on mic
- Snug fit
- Less than potent bass
The Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 2 Max is the best mid-range gaming headset money can buy. It appeals most to multi-platform gamers looking for a wireless gaming headset with above-average battery life. Its excellent microphone also makes the lack of a standalone microphone on a gaming desk less problematic. It should be noted that the different SKUs for this headset are a bit confusing, as the Stealth 600 Gen 2 Max that is officially licensed by Microsoft for Xbox is also compatible with PlayStation consoles, but the one for PlayStation consoles is not compatible with Xbox. It does, however, work with Nintendo and PC.
With bulky and well-padded earcups, the Stealth 600 Gen 2 Max looks heavier than its 297-gram weight. However, while it's comfortable for many listeners, the headset is actually a bit snug on some larger heads. On the other hand, the earcups apply minimal pressure to gamers wearing glasses. As for sound quality, this gaming headset is powered by 50mm Neodymium drivers and has a 20 Hz - 20 kHz frequency response range. Turtle Beach is also one of the few brands that offers multiple color options for its peripherals. The Stealth 600 Gen 2 Max comes in Black, Midnight Red, Pink, Teal, and Arctic Camo.
Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 2 Gaming Headset Buyer's Guide
The Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 2 packs a powerful punch for such a low price point.
The Logitech G Astro A50 X is difficult to beat for platform compatibility, but the Stealth 600 Gen 2 Max benefits from a versatile wireless USB dongle. Gamers must walk to their PlayStation or Xbox console to flip a switch on the adapter, but the headset is compatible with both systems. Even though this Turtle Beach headset doesn't have Bluetooth or wired connectivity, it's still a very flexible peripheral. For instance, the Stealth 600 Gen 2 Max can go a week or more of regular use before having to recharge. If the 48-hour battery life starts to run low, USB-C fast charging can restore hours of playtime in just minutes.
Logitech G Astro A50 X Lightspeed
Now upgraded with breakthrough innovations in audio and connectivity, the new Logitech G ASTRO A50 X LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset + Base Station is the new flagship high-performance gaming headset for console players.
In gaming, comfort, sound, connectivity, communications, and compatibility are the keys gamers look for in an audio solution. The A50 X combines the design of the original A50, a favorite of console gamers everywhere, with four breakthrough innovations in the console headset market.
- Microphone
- Omnidirectional
- Compatibility
- PlayStation, Xbox, PC
- Brand
- Logitech
- Surround Sound
- Dolby Atmos, PS5 3D Audio
- Weight
- 363 grams
- Battery Life
- Up to 24 hours
- Driver
- 40 mm Graphene
- Range
- Up to 12 meters with Lightspeed
- Can easily switch between consoles
- Adjusts for comfortable fit on every head
- Booming and dynamic sound
- Low-latency wireless connectivity
- Default earcups poor at blocking noise
- Cable management can be complicated
The Logitech G Astro A50 X Lightspeed is a premium gaming headset that aims to be the only wireless headset you need for your PC and console needs. It also easily switches between paired sources and boasts 40 mm PRO-G graphene drivers, producing a balanced, distortion-free soundscape.
Since the release of the original A50, this wireless gaming headset's base station has undergone major revisions and now includes only HDMI 2.1 and USB ports. Gamers can route HDMI cables from an Xbox or PlayStation to the device's rear panel and send video back to displays through an output port. PC gamers can simply connect their rigs to the A50 X Lightspeed with a single USB cable. The other USB ports are specific to Microsoft and Sony consoles and enable control over chat volume. When considering that the A50 X is also Bluetooth-capable, the possibilities for mixing sources are almost endless. The cabling scenario is a bit complex, but it's no more messy than using an HDMI switch or AV receiver.
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The futuristic design of the A50 X is just as adjustable as always, with pipes above the earcups marked like rulers. While the headband is very flexible and the memory foam earcups are comfortable, the headset's forgiving fit isn't ideal for passive noise cancellation. Fortunately, the A50 X is easy to modify, and Logitech sells alternative leatherette ear and headband cushions, which block out a bit more background noise. All this performance comes at the cost of weight and price, as this headset is 363 grams, putting it among the heavier options. It also costs close to $400, which is a large amount to pay for a gaming headset.
Gamers can learn more about this headset's outstanding sound and connectivity by reading Game ZXC's Logitech G Astro A50 X review.
Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless Gaming Headset
The Virtuoso RGB Wireless gaming headset from Corsair features a high-fidelity audio experience with 7.1 surround sound. The soundscape is delivered via precisely tuned 50 mm high-density neodymium drivers with a frequency range double that of a typical gaming headset.
The headset has an integrated omnidirectional microphone that records clear voice communications with dynamism. It is also detachable for convenience. The ear cups feature soft memory foam, and the company promises up to 20 hours of battery life on a charge.
- Microphone
- Omni-directional
- Compatibility
- PC, Mac, PlayStation, Mobile
- Surround Sound
- Yes
- Noise Cancellation
- Passive
- Weight
- 372g
- Battery Life
- Up to 20 hours
- Frequency Response
- 20Hz - 40 kHz
- Charge type
- USB-C
- Mic Frequency Response
- 100Hz to 10kHz
- Powerful and dynamic audio
- Superb microphone quality
- Premium construction
- Lack of source mixing
- Poor noise isolation
While RGB lighting effects aren't at the top of the list for all gaming headset shoppers, having a device compatible with the lighting of other peripherals is crucial for gamers. Corsair's iCue RGB ecosystem is one of the most popular software solutions for syncing lighting effects on gaming keyboards, mice, headsets, and more. The Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless Gaming Headset seamlessly adds to the ecosystem and can sync with other Corsair devices. It boasts a premium construction complemented by Corsair iCue's RGB styling. Since most listeners never actually see the headset they are wearing lit up, Corsair also sells a separate headset stand with snazzy RGB effects.
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The Corsair Virtuoso Pro promises unrivaled audio performance for streamers, gamers, and creators.
The Virtuoso RGB sounds as good as it looks, with 50 mm high-density neodymium drivers and a frequency range of 20 Hz to 40,000 Hz, far exceeding most gaming headsets. Slipstream Wireless technology ensures minimal latency and a consistent signal, while its high-bandwidth omnidirectional microphone ranks highly among its competition. The Corsair Virtuoso RGB is the best gaming headset for anyone looking for excellent sound quality, exceptional battery life, and impressive RGB effects.
Turtle Beach Stealth Pro
The Turtle Beach Stealth Pro matches the capabilities of the best wireless gaming headsets but improves upon them in every way imaginable. The Stealth Pro is powered by 50mm Nanoclear drivers that are hand-selected to reduce discrepancies between left and right audio channels. Active Noise Cancellation can reduce unwanted background noise by as much as 25 dB.
For maximum listening time, the Stealth Pro allows for easy swapping of 12-hour batteries, with one battery continuously charged to avoid disappointing gamers. The Stealth Pro comes in two versions for compatibility with the PC/Xbox or PC/PS4/PS5 and is capable of simultaneous connections to Bluetooth sources.
- Microphone
- Detachable, Flip to mute, Noise cancelling
- Compatibility
- PC, Mac, PS4, PS5, Xbox
- Brand
- Turtle Beach
- Noise Cancellation
- ANC
- Weight
- 400 grams
- Battery Life
- 24 hours w/ 2 batteries
- Class-leading active noise cancellation
- Excellent build-quality
- Dual wireless connectivity with Bluetooth
- Headband is not the most comfortable
- Very expensive
The Turtle Beach Stealth Pro is our choice for the best noise-cancelling gaming headset. With four internal microphones to monitor disturbances, this headset provides a 25 dB reduction in ambient noise, which is incredible. Besides the impressive noise-cancelling, the Stealth Pro delivers excellent sound quality, thanks to 50 mm Nanoclear drivers and a frequency response range of 10 Hz - 22 kHz. These drivers are made from select materials and perfectly balance the left and right audio channels.
This wireless gaming headset has an interesting approach to battery life; the Stealth Pro comes with two batteries that both last 12 hours, so when one dies, gamers can easily swap out one for the other and keep on gaming. The batteries charge on a provided dock that can fit on pretty much any desk or TV console, making it easy to keep the battery charged and ready to go at all times. It would be preferable if each battery could get through 24 hours, but with how much ANC this headset drives, the 12 hours is very understandable. The noise-canceling is not limited to the earcups as the mic comes with the company's S.M.A.R.T (Sonic Measurement Audio Reduction Tuning) noise cancelation. It can reduce background noise by up to 97%, according to the company.
In Game ZXC's review, readers can find out how outstanding build quality is also an advantage of the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro.
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How to Choose the Best Gaming Headset
What makes the perfect gaming headset? To narrow down the possibilities, it's wise to focus on these characteristics:
- Wired vs. Wireless: Some buyers prefer a wireless headset for convenience, while others enjoy the reliability of their wired counterparts. The debate between wireless and wired headsets has intensified since wireless headsets offer improved sound quality and features but usually cost more. The advantages of wireless gaming headsets are that there is no wire dangling around you and that you can walk away from your desk with the headset still on. However, the one big disadvantage is having to charge the headset from time to time. The more feature-rich the headsets get, the more the battery life takes a hit.
- Platform Compatibility: Certain headsets excel on a particular console, like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox. Others will work on consoles and PCs, but some features, like virtual surround sound, only function on a single platform. More often than not, you will find that the headsets that are compatible with PC and PlayStation consoles don't work with Xbox and those that are compatible with Xbox and PC don't work with PlayStation consoles. There are also gaming headsets that work with all platforms, with some being more seamless than others.
- Microphone Quality: Mic style and clarity are also crucial, especially for gamers who stream or play mostly MMOs or shooters. Is the mic an inline or boom mic, and what mic works best for that type of gamer's needs? Most gaming headsets come with boom mics, which can be positioned appropriately and some even allow for the mic to be detached entirely. The more convenient feature is flip to mute, which is also present on a lot of gaming headsets.
- Noise Cancellation: The most expensive headsets often employ Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to neutralize background noise. Otherwise, most headsets rely on passive noise cancellation with earcups that form a tight seal around the ears. Ideally, a gaming headset will take both approaches to eliminate low, mid, and high tones that interfere with a gaming experience. ANC is not a necessary feature to have as, while gaming, there isn't much ambient noise anyway.
- Comfort: Because gaming sessions can last for several hours, it is important that the headset does not feel bulky over time or irritate your ears or head. The type of material used for the earcups and headband dictates how comfortable the headset will be, along with its weight. The lighter the headset, the longer it can be worn before experiencing fatigue.
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FAQ
Q: What is better, wired or wireless headsets?
Depending on the quality of the individual headset, one may be better than the other. However, most of the time, the difference between a wireless and wired headset is indistinguishable. While the answer may have been wired over wireless in the past, technology has improved in the last several years, making wireless and wired more comparable in the modern gaming scene.
Q: Can all PC headsets be used on consoles?
Unless otherwise specified, PC headsets are typically PC only. Because they connect to the computer using a USB port, they may not be able to connect to most consoles. Ensure that the headset has compatibility with your console before making a substantial purchase.
Q: What's the average budget for a gaming headset?
The budget for a gaming headset can vary wildly depending on multiple factors. Make, build, brand, RGB, and compatibility all can change the price of a headset. The lower range can be anywhere from $20-$30, while high-end gaming gear headsets can cost anywhere up to $200.