A headset is essential gear for streamers, allowing them to monitor broadcasts and communicate with audiences. Even if most established streamers use standalone mics, a headset is still vital for gaming and editing content off-stream. While popular casters rely on the same gaming headsets as viewers, these internet personalities have unique requirements for these peripherals.

  • Astro A40 TR MixAmp Pro
    Astro Gaming A40 TR + MixAmp Pro TR
    Best Overall Headset for Streaming
    $152 at Amazon
  • SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Gaming Headset
    SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Gaming Headset
    Best Wireless Headset for Streaming
    $294 at Newegg
  • Audio Technica ATHM50xSTS Headset
    Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS StreamSet Headset
    Best Wired Headset for Streaming
    $229 at Amazon
  • Hyper X Cloud III Wired Headset
    HyperX Cloud III Gaming Headset
    Best Budget Headset for Streaming
    $80 at Amazon
  • Audeze Maxwell Gaming Headset
    Audeze Maxwell Gaming Headset
    Best High-End Headset for Streaming
    $299 at Amazon
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The best headsets for streaming need accurate and reliable microphones, especially for novice broadcasters with compact setups. Being able to control audio levels is also crucial, with some headsets shipping with mixers to adjust the volume of voices, games, and other media. Finally, headsets should have a comfortable, durable, and stylish design, sometimes boasting colorful exteriors and RGB lighting. Game ZXC has selected a crop of headsets that improve the quality of a stream, regardless of a content creator's budget and preferences.

Game ZXC's List of the Best Headsets for Streaming

The Astro Gaming A40 TR with the Mix Amp Pro TR can jumpstart streaming careers with a wide soundstage and versatile wired connectivity. With this configuration, streamers don't have to purchase additional equipment to gain more control over their broadcast's audio mixes. Whether a content creator is just starting or experienced, the A40 TR headset also impresses with comfort and an accurate microphone.

What's most unusual about the A40 TR headset is its semi-open back design. Unlike most closed-back gaming headsets, the A40 TR keeps streamers more connected with the outside world. While this poses problems in noisy environments, the soundscape is more expansive and representative of how producers want content to sound. Fortunately, the modular headset allows owners to replace its cloth ear pads and headband cushion with leather alternatives, improving its passive noise cancellation. However, the customizations don't end there, as the mod kit also includes less porous speaker tags to place on the outside of the cans and a voice-isolating microphone replacement.

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Buyers can usually save some money buying the Astro-branded mixer with the A40 TR headset compared to purchasing both individually. The MixAmp Pro TR is a compact device that connects to the headset with a 3.5 mm analog audio jack. Numerous inputs for USB sources, optical audio, and an AUX jack are on the back of the mixer. There are specific versions of the MixAmp Pro TR for Xbox and PlayStation consoles, but the PS5's lack of an optical audio port will require an HDMI converter. Once set up, streamers can adjust what their audience hears through an output intended for broadcasts.

The combination of this Astro headset and mixer allows streamers to create more professional-quality broadcasts with large knobs for voice and game levels. Gamers and streamers will benefit from EQ settings and optional Dolby Audio, which makes action-packed titles more immersive. To save even more space on a small gaming desk, the A40 TR headset's uni-directional mic performs well enough until broadcasters can upgrade to a standalone microphone.

Streaming giants like Nickmercs rely on the A40 TR headset because it effortlessly blends dynamic gaming audio with convenient content creation features. If a buyer wants an all-in-one solution for broadcasting, the Astro Gaming A40 TR tops the best headsets for streaming.

The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is a premium wireless headset that's well-suited for competitive gaming and streaming. An included base station enhances the headset's connectivity, while its powerful active noise cancellation allows broadcasters to focus on their content. Streamers who already have enough wires on their desktops can streamline setups without sacrificing sound or microphone quality.

With a sleek and sophisticated look, the Nova Pro Wireless passes as a pair of studio headphones. There aren't any RGB effects or colorful accents that some streamers like to showcase, but the headset is available in a color scheme to match white keyboards and mice. The design of the Nova Pro Wireless focuses on durability with ample metal parts to justify its high asking price. Not overly weighty at 339 grams, soft leatherette covers memory foam ear pads to form a tighter seal on the ears than the Astro A40 TR. Instead of a solid headband that inevitably becomes painful, the Nova Pro Wireless has an adjustable suspension strap.

The two aspects of this SteelSeries headset that separate it from the competition are its noise-cancelling abilities and versatile base station. Not all streamers have peaceful spaces to work in, so the Nova Pro Wireless utilizes internal mics to monitor environments for distractions and nullify them with sound waves. The effectiveness of the headset's ANC is admirable for a gaming headset, even if the newer Turtle Beach Stealth Pro performs slightly better.

Sold in two variations for PlayStation and Xbox, the base station with an OLED screen includes USB connections for gaming consoles and PCs. Connecting wirelessly to this component, the Nova Pro Wireless can blend these sources with Bluetooth mobile devices and output them to mixers. Streamers can either use physical controls on the headset or knobs on the base station to change game and chat volumes. The innovative base station also constantly charges a swappable battery, giving the Nova Pro Wireless up to 36 hours of playtime.

The Nova Pro Wireless relies on 40 mm Neodymium Magnetic drivers, which reduce distortion and treat low, mid, and high tones equally. A noise-cancelling mic also ranks as one of the top gaming headset microphones, working with A.I. software to isolate voices.

Despite complex software with EQ settings and source sliders that may intimidate users, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless can elevate gaming and streaming. Game ZXC's review of the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless praised its durable construction and sound quality, which will satisfy demanding audiophiles.

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS StreamSet tries to accomplish the impossible task of matching the recording quality of a standalone mic. Despite their best efforts, gaming headset mics usually capture voices with less than complete clarity, often with tinny-sounding representations. Placing the same technology as the manufacturer's 20 Series external mics at the end of a flexible boom mic, the StreamSet headset improves broadcasts while saving money.

Many streamers prefer standing USB microphones for their recording quality and to make a setup look more professional. However, they occupy valuable desk space, and broadcasters may need cumbersome arms to keep them close to their mouths. The StreamSet headset includes a much more compact and flexible boom mic with a cardioid condenser module. This mic excels by capturing the widest vocal range possible and won't overreact to being touched or moved. However, even though it's unidirectional, the mic does not thrive in noisy rooms; it shines instead in soundproof studios, which may not be practical for many streamers.

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As a version of the ATH-M50x, the StreamSet looks like a pair of closed-back professional wired headphones with a mic attached. The wide headband is well-padded, and the ear cups slide up and down to find the perfect fit. To suit more streaming setups, the StreamSet ships with both mesh fabric and leatherette ear cushions. The smooth faux leather option is better for noise isolation, while the mesh fabric minimizes heat buildup.

This Audio-Technica headset comes in two varieties, with buyers having a choice of USB and XLR connectivity. USB requires only an available port on a PC, but broadcasters often use XLR sound gear in conjunction with mixers and other audio interfaces. The StreamSet is primarily intended for PCs, but no desktop or mobile app is supplied. Since the headset's physical controls are barebones, streamers will want to find a paid or free solution for more advanced software control.

Streamers may not prioritize gaming when purchasing the StreamSet, but its 45 mm drivers can meet any challenge. Its soundscape is just as well-rounded as the mic's recording quality, and a wide range of music and games will sound dynamic, with the most subtle details audible.

It's rare for a manufacturer to design a headset specifically for live streaming, but the StreamSet doesn't disappoint. It possesses one of the most accurate microphones on any headset and also offers the sound quality and comfort to satisfy the harshest critics.

Finding an affordable streaming headset can be challenging because of higher mic quality and connectivity expectations. The HyperX Cloud III doesn't come with advanced mixing abilities, but it's one of the most comfortable headsets on the market. Streamers can wear this well-built device for hours while talking to audiences with an above-average noise-cancelling microphone.

Many competitors have attempted to copy the memory foam cushioning of the Cloud headsets. Even so, enjoying some recent discounts, the Cloud III remains the gold standard for comfort among similarly priced alternatives. This HyperX gaming headset carefully balances durability with an aluminum frame that's flexible enough to accommodate any streamer.

Even as a wired headset without a mixer, the Cloud III manages to work with nearly any source. HyperX includes several different adapters, allowing it to connect to consoles and gaming PCs through USB or a 3.5 mm audio cable. For wireless connectivity, buyers will have to up their budget for the cordless version of the Cloud III. Controls on the headset only take a moment to learn and consist of a volume rocker and a button to mute its microphone. For more comprehensive adjustments and to activate DTS Headphone:X virtual surround sound, PC gamers can access the Ngenuity software.

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The Cloud III's 53 mm drivers output a fairly neutral soundscape with bass tones that aren't overly booming. Some listeners might want to make EQ adjustments to amplify gaming excitement, but streamers will find the balanced sound benefits content creation. Along the same lines, the noise-rejecting mic doesn't target just low or high tones, resulting in authentic-sounding voice recordings. A seemingly minor but essential feature for live streamers, an LED mute indicator will flash on the detachable mic to avoid any embarrassing mishaps.

Eventually, most streamers will want to add an external mic or mixer to a setup with the HyperX Cloud III. Nevertheless, as a budget headset, the Cloud III matches a more expensive alternative's comfort, build quality, and microphone clarity.

Streamers striving for the highest quality sound without sacrificing practical headset features should save up money for the Audeze Maxwell. With an array of wireless and wired connectivity, there are almost no sources around a gaming desk that the Maxwell can't pair with. Viewers will also hear broadcasters as if they are in the same room, resulting from effective AI-powered noise filtering.

Although it lacks much gaming flair, the rather bulky Maxwell looks and feels like a pair of high-end headphones. While the headset supports Bluetooth, at 490 grams, it's better served as a permanent addition to a streaming setup. Remarkably, the device's weight shouldn't bother most listeners because of an adjustable suspension headband and extremely thick memory foam cushions. The lack of active noise cancellation at this price point is somewhat disappointing, but the pads envelop ear lobes to achieve stellar passive noise blocking.

Maxwell's 90 mm Planar Drivers produce a sound output that includes the lowest bass tones and sharpest highs. The advantage of the Maxwell's weight is massive drivers that support a frequency response of 10 Hz to 50 kHz, much higher than the typical gaming headset. Streamers can use the Audeze Maxwell HQ app to experiment with EQ settings that suit various types of action-packed games or music.

If broadcasters work with content from many different gaming consoles and Bluetooth sources, the Maxwell can make completing projects easier. The preferred connectivity method involves a low-latency, long-range USB RF dongle, but the headset supports the latest high-bitrate Bluetooth codecs. Unfortunately, the Maxwell monitors smartphones for calls, but there is no way to stop it from automatically switching inputs. The wireless headset has a version for the PS5 and Xbox, with one of the primary differences being an included Dolby Atmos license for Microsoft's consoles.

Many recent gaming headset mics claim to harness the power of AI to filter out interference intelligently. Still, the technology works especially well on the Maxwell, partly due to a detachable hypercardioid mic that locks in on streamers' voices even without any help. The headset also includes internal mics that make the Maxwell more mobile, but their recording quality doesn't compare.

On a short list of the best headsets for streaming, the Maxwell appeals to multi-platform game streamers unable to broadcast in sound-proof studios. Game ZXC's review of the Maxwell concluded that its dynamic sound and noise-rejecting mic are a cut above the competition.

Certain headsets, like the Audio-Technica StreamSet, focus on sound and microphone performance, while others concentrate more on style. The Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro sounds amazing and has a superior microphone, but its RGB lighting makes it stand out in the crowd. This wired headset allows streamers to add personality and improve the quality of broadcasts.

The Kraken Kitty V2 Pro isn't the only Razer headset to feature RGB effects, but its illuminated splendor goes well beyond earcups. Buyers receive three different kitty, bunny, and bear ears that attach to connectors on the Kraken Kitty V2 Pro's headband. A decent portion of each accessory lights up in Chroma RGB lighting that's customizable in Synapse software. The ears match the dynamic effects of Razer RGB keyboards and mice to create a uniform look on a streaming desk.

More than most manufacturers, Razer prioritizes features and software that benefit streamers. In addition to its selection of RGB ears, a Streamer Companion App allows the Kraken Kitty V2 Pro to react to in-stream events, making broadcasts more interactive. Also, the headset normally requires a USB connection for its lighting, but Cosplay Mode enables streamers to provide sufficient current with USB power banks.

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The audio streamers hear with the Kraken Kitty V2 Pro is powerful and balanced. 50 mm TriForce Titanium drivers divide a soundscape into low, mid, and high tones, aiding streamers in editing content. The modular HyperClear cardioid mic ignores everything except a broadcaster's voice, benefiting streaming and competitive gaming. The Synapse app unlocks some powerful EQ customizations if listeners find the default sound mix too bass-heavy.

Streamers with Xbox consoles may want another headset since the Kraken Kitty V2 Pro utilizes an unsupported USB Type A connection. Some customized settings won't apply to other systems, but the headset works with the Nintendo Switch and PS5. The other drawback of the Kraken Kitty V2 Pro's permanent, nearly seven-foot-long cord is that it's heavy and not very bendable, often snagging on other components.

The Kraken Kitty V2 Pro's price tag is considerably higher due to the added RGB lighting. Even so, it makes streaming configurations seem a bit less ordinary, and the headset matches its good looks with above-average sound and microphone accuracy.

How to Find the Perfect Streaming Headset

Best Streaming Headset Conclusion

With their own headsets, gamers are often frustrated by issues with comfort and connectivity. However, for streamers, choosing the wrong headset can result in less audience engagement and, ultimately, lower viewership. To avoid one of many technical obstacles when streaming, select a headset that excels in these areas:

Microphone/Sound Quality

Whether or not a streamer owns a standalone microphone, a headset's attached mic will inevitably serve a purpose during or in between streams. With the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS StreamSet, broadcasters aren't sacrificing much using its cardioid condenser mic. The manufacturer successfully downsized its top audio technology to give headset users the same accurate recording quality as its standalone mics.

Streamers benefit from audiophile-grade headsets, particularly when preparing or editing content off-stream. The Audeze Maxwell and its 90 mm Planar Magnetic drivers allow content creators to produce clips that sound precisely as intended for viewers.

Source Mixing

Even casual gamers utilize controls to adjust the balance of game and chat audio, which is possible with affordable headsets like the HyperX Cloud III. Professional streamers demand greater control over how all audio components of a broadcast blend together. The Astro Gaming A40 TR + MixAmp Pro TR bundle includes a mixer that can apply EQ settings before outputting altered audio through a stream port.

Build Quality

It can be very difficult for a budding streaming career to become profitable. Constantly replacing gear like headsets adds more financial strain to a struggling caster. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is a high-end gaming headset that employs metal parts to survive the inevitable drops and collisions on a crowded desk. Likewise, the Audeze Maxwell is heavy but rugged premium audio gear with reinforced components in its most sensitive areas.

Style

Gamers now often look to streamers to set style trends for gaming headsets, keyboards, and mice. The Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro builds on the popular use of cat and bunny ears on top of headsets with a variety of modular RGB-lit accessories. Other headsets don't shine as brightly, but the Astro Gaming A40 TR has a unique futuristic aesthetic and encourages owners to customize it with replaceable parts.

Among all the possibilities, Game ZXC believes the Astro Gaming A40 TR + MixAmp Pro TR outperforms the best headsets for streaming. For a minimal added investment, this package comes with a mixer to make audio during a stream sound more professional. The headset itself has a relaxed but secure fit and an accurate microphone that won't annoy viewers by popping or crackling.

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FAQ

Q: Why do streamers use wired headphones?

Many streamers prefer wired headphones because they ensure a stable connection to PCs without needing regular recharging. On the other hand, broadcasters have begun to embrace wireless alternatives with improved battery life and low-latency connectivity.

Q: Are earbuds better for streaming?

Some broadcasters who prefer a streamlined look utilize earbuds instead of headsets. However, while the audio quality of earbuds is often more than adequate, their inferior mics require pairing them with a standalone microphone.

Q: Should I use headphones when streaming?

Headphones can be a great alternative to gaming headsets when sound quality is the top priority. While they require separate microphones and don't have convenient gaming features, most headphones are designed to replicate professional-level audio gear.