Wireless gaming headsets are all the rage, but wired versions offer endless listening enjoyment without concerns over battery life or signal interference. Of course, the fact that wired headsets are often significantly cheaper is another advantage. When shopping for the best wired gaming headset, gamers often look for a device compatible with both PCs and latest consoles. Owning a headset that's more than adequate for listening to music and movies adds even more value to a potential purchase.
Wired Vs. Wireless Gaming Headsets
Wireless and wired headsets each have pros and cons making the decision a complicated one for gamers. Which option is right for you?
Despite their relative affordability, wired gaming headsets retail at a wide range of price points with different strengths and weaknesses. Many capabilities of the top gaming headsets are unlocked with software, but the more basic models provide quality sound by simply plugging in an analog audio cable.
How to Decide On a Wired Gaming Headset
Before choosing a wired gaming headset, make sure to consider the following factors:
- Platform: Wired headsets benefit from working with various sources without sometimes frustrating wireless pairing. Still, while most corded gaming headsets work with PCs and consoles, the Xbox does pose problems for devices using USB connections.
- Build quality: More expensive gaming headsets tend to use metal in their construction instead of only plastic. As a result, buyers of cheaper headsets may have to replace them sooner rather than later. However, price is not always the ultimate indicator of build quality, making it important to consider users' real-world experiences.
- Surround sound: Wired headsets supporting 5.1 or 7.1 channel surround sound can add new dimensions to a gaming experience. There are many different spatial audio formats, so if this feature is important to buyers, they should purchase a headset meeting the requirements of their platform.
- Microphone quality: Generally, a gaming headset mic can't match the recording quality of a standalone microphone. Even so, some headsets have more than acceptable performance with noise-canceling mics that effectively filter out background noise.
The wired headsets discussed below include models geared for top-tier sound, style, and compatibility that will leave buyers with no regrets.
Game ZXC's Top Picks for Best Wired Gaming Headsets in 2024
Logitech G PRO X Gaming Headset
The second generation Logitech G Pro X gaming headset supports the high-fidelity surround sound of DTS Headphone 7.1 through its 50 mm PRO-G drivers. The wired headphones are compatible with most platforms, including PC, PlayStation, Switch, and Xbox.
The headset comes with a detachable microphone with real-time Blue Voice technology that reduces ambient noise and improves audio quality. The memory foam ear cushions offer passive noise-canceling and comfort of breathability.
- Microphone
- Detachable, Unidirectional/Cardioid, 20Hz - 20kHz
- Compatibility
- PC, Xbox, PS4, PS5
- What's Included
- 2 Sets of Ear Pads, USB External Sound Card, 2mm Cable, Mobile Cable, Y Splitter, Carrying Bag
- Brand
- Logitech
- Surround Sound
- 7.1 Surround Sound
- Noise Cancellation
- Sound Isolation, No Active Noise Cancellation
- Weight
- 338 grams
- Convincing sound quality
- Includes many accessories
- Pain-free plush earcups
- Software sound profiles are redundant
- Not as customizable on consoles
The best wired gaming headset among all contenders must include broad compatibility with sources and a well-rounded sound output. The Logitech G Pro X is one of the most popular gaming headsets the company has ever made, complete with a unique design and attractive modern styling. Compared to its far more expensive wireless version, the G Pro X makes fewer compromises.
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While the G Pro X has been out since 2019, gamers still have their original headsets intact because of its solid build quality. The manufacturer wisely employed aluminum at sensitive points along the headset and reinforced the headband with steel. Grind fests will pass by without annoying earlobe pain thanks to pillowy, soft memory foam ear cushions and a well-padded headband.
The G Pro X is as versatile as any wired gaming headset in its price range. Analog audio inputs and a USB audio adapter give PC users greater control over sound profiles. However, with limited on-device controls, console fans won't have the same level of sound customization as PC gamers. Its DTS-based surround sound relies on the Logitech G Hub app, but PlayStation users can implement Tempest 3D audio regardless.
The Logitech G Pro X is a favorite choice among esports professionals like Alexander "s1mple" Kostylev with the headset's Blue Vo!ce filtering. Through software, the recording quality is enhanced, and speakers talk with volume and clarity.
Shipping with many accessories and a choice between foam and leatherette earcups, this wired headset justifies a somewhat steep asking price. Boasting balanced sound, an excellent mic, and durable construction, newer headsets struggle to match what the Logitech G Pro X offers.
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
- Brand
- Razer
- Weight
- 285 g
- What's Included
- Headset only
- Noise Cancellation
- None
- Frequency Response
- 12 Hz – 28 kHz
- Strong all-around value
- Very lightweight and comfortable design
- 7.1 surround sound support
- Incompatible with Xbox
- Software adjustments are limited
For an even more affordable Razer wired gaming headset, the Kraken V3 X checks nearly all the boxes for PC and PlayStation gamers. Budget headsets have an unfortunate reputation for lacking a luxurious sense of comfort. Fortunately, the Kraken V3 X makes gamers feel like they are wearing a high-end headset due to breathable memory foam ear cushions and a padded headband. This wired headset can also adjust to fit most heads, even medium and larger skulls, which is not always the case with the cheapest alternatives. Although the Kraken V3 X build is mainly plastic, it contributes to its relatively low weight.
The overall soundscape of the Kraken V3 X is powerful and balanced thanks to TriForce 40 mm drivers. As with most gaming headsets, there is an emphasis on bass effects, but the headset holds its own when it comes to music and movies. However, gamers will want to download the available 7.1 software for the Kraken V3 X to enable THX spatial audio. Listeners will get the sense that they are living in virtual gaming environments, with sounds bombarding eardrums from every direction. Since the software is PC-only, PlayStation users must turn to the console's native Tempest 3D Audio to experience spatial audio.
Connecting through USB-A to PC and PlayStation consoles, the Razer Kraken V3 X provides crystal clear audio without the potential interference experienced with analog cables. Still, since Microsoft is restrictive about what USB accessories work with its consoles, there is no straightforward way for this headset to connect to the Xbox. Nintendo Switch owners can also use the Razer Kraken V3 X in docked mode but may have to disconnect and reconnect the headset periodically.
Another bonus of the budget-friendly Kraken V3 X is its Chroma RGB effects at the center of its earcups. Buyers can take advantage of the Synapse software to tweak the colors of the Razer logo and surrounding lighting. Otherwise, the app provides rather bare-bones functionality with the Kraken V3 X, with no option to adjust sound mixes.
Considering its comfortable design, 7.1 channel surround sound support, and balanced soundscape, the Razer Kraken V3 X is the preferred wired gaming headset for budget shoppers.
HyperX Cloud III Gaming Headset
The HyperX Cloud III is the follow-up to the ultra-popular Cloud II wired gaming headset, approved by Esports competitors. Featuring angled 53 mm drivers, the Cloud III sends sound directly on a path to eardrums for maximum effect. The Cloud III is exceptionally comfortable and is compatible with PCs and most consoles.
- Microphone
- Detachable, Noise cancelling
- Compatibility
- PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, Mobile
- Brand
- HyperX
- Weight
- 318 grams
- Spatial Audio
- DTS Headphone:X
- Very comfortable for continuous use
- Impressive bass tones
- Looks and feels like a premium headset
- DTS surround sound not the best
- HyperX NGENUITY software is buggy
HyperX's sterling reputation in the early 2000s resulted from its excellent high-performance computer memory. The company has recently developed a large following as a manufacturer of gaming controllers, mice, keyboards, and headsets. The HyperX Cloud II wired headset was extremely popular among esports pros and regular gamers thanks to its comfort, durability, and sound quality. While improving upon such a celebrated peripheral is difficult, HyperX finally released the Cloud III with some incremental but worthy changes.
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A gaming headset's drivers are ultimately responsible for how powerful and balanced its sound output is. With the HyperX Cloud III, 53 mm drivers are now angled toward the eardrums, so none of the headset's volume or evenly-tuned low, mid, and high tones escape. Even so, the bass tones are most impressive with the Cloud III, and the headset effectively amplifies explosions. Volume and mute controls are now accessible on the earcups rather than the USB dongle. Finally, the microphone, perhaps the weakest point of the Cloud II, now sports an integrated mesh filter to reduce unwanted noises.
The HyperX Cloud III can connect to PCs or consoles using a 3.5 mm analog audio cable or the included USB adapter. DTS Headphone: X surround sound is also an option in some setups, but gamers won't regret not using it, as it tends to sound less dynamic than expected.
Ultimately, with its comfort, the Cloud III again excels where its predecessor scored the most points. The pillowy ear cushions are back again, and the Cloud III achieves an even more secure fit with a headband with the perfect clamping force for any user. As the best wired gaming headset at a mid-range price, the HyperX Cloud III takes everything that is loved about the Cloud II and adds some features to beat the competition again.
If gamers want to potentially save money on an older but highly-rated gaming headset, they can read a full review of the HyperX Cloud II. For buyers looking to cut cords, Game ZXC also more recently reviewed the Cloud III Wireless.
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
- Compatibility
- PC, Xbox, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch
- Brand
- SteelSeries
- Surround Sound
- Spatial 7.1
- Noise Cancellation
- Yes
- Weight
- 298 grams
- GameDac includes multiple connections
- Powerful hi-res audio
- Flexible but secure fit on all heads
- Expensive for a wired-headset
- Leatherette ear cushions get warm
The best high-end wired gaming headset must meet high standards in terms of performance, compatibility, and durability. SteelSeries makes some of the top gaming headsets on the market, and the Arctis Nova Pro delivers in all these areas.
What separates the Arctis Nova Pro from the competition is its DAC, which allows for powerful sound customization using the SteelSeries Sonar app. In addition, there are USB ports to connect to PCs and consoles and analog input and outputs. It's possible to mix several sources, making the headset a flexible multi-platform option. While both the Xbox and PlayStation versions of the Arctis Nova Pro are excellent PC headsets, buyers will want to purchase the version specific to their console.
The Arctis Nova Pro admirably simulates surround sound, whether with the PS5's Tempest 3D, Microsoft's spatial audio, or a 360-degree PC soundscape. The headset's construction uses premium materials that withstand abuse, and its crystal-clear microphone ranks among the best in its class. However, SteelSeries opted for leatherette to cover the ear cups rather than a woven fabric. Consequently, the cushions on the Arctis Nova Pro tend to get warm after extended listening.
Much of the value of the price Arctis Nova Pro lies in its external sound processing, which boosts audio bitrate. Also, the DAC saves the hassle of constantly plugging in wired headsets to multiple sources. For multi-platform gamers craving an elevated listening experience, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro is in a class of its own. Game ZXC's review of the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless found that the cordless version of this headset added even more perks, like Active Noise Cancellation.
HyperX Cloud Orbit S
The HyperX Cloud Orbit S gaming headset is luxury-level audio at a midrange-level price. It utilizes powerful planar magnetic drivers from Audeze, the same drivers employed in $400+ headphones. The HyperX offers 3D spatial audio and head tracking, plus multi-system compatibility thanks to three included connectivity options. The detachable mic subdues background noises including keyboard cracks and other disturbances, while the headset's active noise cancelation keeps players immersed deeply in game audio.
- Microphone
- Detachable noise-canceling mic
- Compatibility
- PC, Mac, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PlayStation, mobile
- Brand
- HyperX
- Weight
- 368 grams
- Style
- Wired over-ear
- Noise Cancelation
- Active noise cancelation
- Drivers
- Audeze planar magnetic
- Spatial audio
- Waves Nx 3D audio
- Impressive head tracking
- Convincing 3D audio
- Adapters to connect to PCs and all consoles
- Earcups may be too small for some gamers
- Integrated preamp requires recharging
Sometimes, a slightly older gaming headset can provide superior value and features that more recent competitors can't match. The HyperX Cloud Orbit S is a wired headset that employs Audeze's planar magnetic drivers for a dynamic soundscape ideal for 3D audio. Also, there are few other headsets in the same price bracket that offer the accurate head-tracking capabilities of this device. Whether a gamer seeks an advantage over opponents with notification of approaching danger or wants a VR headset-like experience, the Cloud Orbit S deserves strong consideration.
Head tracking is where the Cloud Orbit S distances itself from the pack. The headset is constantly monitoring the position of heads to reflect movements in virtual 3D audio gaming environments. Combined with powerful magnetic drivers, users experience a multi-layered sound that springs to life in supported surround sound titles. Audeze's driver technology makes the Cloud Orbit S sound like studio headphones, but the headset still includes a detachable microphone for multiplayer chatting.
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The Cloud Orbit S is best suited for a PC since its powerful software can tune 3D audio for a specific environment. However, HyperX includes several analog and USB adapters that allow the headset to connect to consoles and other devices. Surprisingly, this wired headset has a battery for internal sound processing, so gamers must recharge the device periodically.
Some gamers with larger ears have been clamoring for an updated version of the Cloud Orbit S. The headset's earpads are narrow and may not completely cover the earlobes of all buyers. Regardless, when surround sound is the priority, more recent gaming headsets struggle to provide the same convincing listening experience as the Cloud Orbit S.
Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro
The Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro brings the same sound quality as previous Kraken headsets with a stylish and versatile new look. The Kraken Kitty V2 Pro features interchangeable ears including accessories for cats, bears, and bunnies. The ears along with rings on the headset's earcups all sync with Razer's popular Chroma RGB lighting system, ideal for streamers and gamers.
The TriForce 50mm drivers on the Kraken Kitty V2 Pro provide an ideal balance between high, mid, and low tones with plenty of volume. The detachable HyperClear Cardioid Mic reduces background noise and captures voices without interference.
- Microphone
- Detachable noise-cancelling
- Compatibility
- PC, PS4, PS5, PC
- Brand
- Razer
- Surround Sound
- 7.1
- Weight
- 332 grams
- Three RGB-capable ears
- Comfortable for long gaming and streaming sessions
- Cosplay mode
- Lacks true spatial audio
- Expensive for wired headset
As stunning as RGB gaming headsets can look, the reality is most users won't see themselves wearing them. Unless they video chat with their image on the screen or stream on popular platforms like Twitch or YouTube. Without streamers endorsing them, Razer's line of Kitty headsets probably wouldn't be nearly as popular as it is. The wired Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro is the company's latest feline-inspired headset, but its name alone doesn't do justice to the range of looks possible with the device.
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If a gamer feels the kitty appearance is too common with headsets, Razer also supplies buyers with interchangeable bear and bunny ears. The detachable ears house additional lights, giving the headset a more impactful look than other headsets, especially in darker rooms. Not surprisingly, all the Kraken Kitty V2 Pro lights work seamlessly with Razer's other Chroma-enabled RGB mice and keyboards configured using Synapse software. The headset normally connects to the PC, Switch, and PS5 through a USB connection, but in cosplay mode, aspiring models can power the RGB lighting using a portable power bank.
Beyond its cuteness and external lighting, the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro has TriForce 50mm drivers, providing the usual powerful and balanced sound produced by other Kraken headsets. The Kraken Kitty V2 Pro also includes a detachable noise-canceling microphone that effectively removes annoying background distractions. While the Kraken Kitty V2 Pro is undoubtedly one of the best gaming headsets for RGB fanatics, it lacks authentic spatial audio, so gamers must settle for conventional 7.1 surround sound
JBL Quantum ONE Over-Ear Gaming Headset
The JBL Quantum One delivers the company's professional-level audio experience to gamers. JBL QuantumSound produces spatial sound with a rich listening experience powered by Hi-Res certified 50mm drivers. Active Noise-Cancelling effectively filters out distracting background noise while the detachable microphone with noise suppression ensures that a teammate never misses vital instructions. The JBL Quantum One includes stunning RGB effects and is compatible with PCs and most consoles.
- Microphone
- Detachable, noise suppression
- Compatibility
- PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox
- Brand
- JBL
- Noise Cancellation
- ANC
- Weight
- 369 g
- Head-tracking capable
- Balanced sound
- Noise-cancellation makes gaming more immersive
- Some features only work with PC
- Somewhat bulky and heavy
Effective noise cancellation on a gaming headset is difficult to find, with most gamers settling for noise-isolating microphones. The JBL Quantum One not only has noise cancellation but also active noise cancellation, which generates a phase-inverted sound to block out distracting background noise. Beyond its noise-canceling prowess, the Quantum One is an impressive gaming headset compatible with PCs and most consoles.
Game ZXC's review of the JBL Quantum One found that JBL's QuantumSphere 360 surround sound technology works as well as any spatial sound system in the industry. The headset intelligently relies on its built-in mic to calibrate channel levels. However, head-tracking capabilities take the listening experience to new levels, where gamers' movements alter a soundscape. Unfortunately, console gamers can only connect the headset through an analog cable rather than USB, and some of the headset's most advanced features aren't available.
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The Quantum One's construction uses considerable plastic, but it has passed the test of time nonetheless. The bulky earcups surround the earcups to enhance the headset's ANC, giving the Quantum One a less portable appearance. JBL is still relatively new to the gaming headset arena but has included flashy effects rivaling Razer and Corsair RGB keyboards and headsets. The included chat mixer is the only real disappointment, with no volume or gain controls.
Several years after its release, the Quantum One remains one of the most innovative wired gaming headsets. While gamers lose the portability of a wireless headset, active noise cancellation and head tracking maximize an immersive gaming experience.
Turtle Beach Recon 70X
The Turtle Beach Recon 70x is an officially licensed gaming headset for the Microsoft Xbox consoles. The budget-friendly Recon 70X has high-end features including noise-isolating ear cushions and compatibility with spatial audio formats. 40MM speakers pump out powerful balanced sound in a comfortable and compact design. Turtle Beach's industry-leading high-sensitivity flip-to-mute mic ensures that Xbox friends stay in constant contact during multiplayer battles. The Recon 70x is also compatible with other consoles and PCs with its 3.5mm analog audio jacks.
- Brand
- Turtle Beach
- Weight
- 309 grams
- Microphone
- Flip-to-mute
- Style
- Wired
- Compatibility
- Xbox, PS4, PS5, PC
- Sleek design and comfortable
- Excellent microphone quality
- Good sound quality for an affordable headset
- Very affordable
- Lack of customization software
- Poor sound isolation
The options for Xbox-compatible wired gaming headsets are vast, but the number of officially licensed Xbox products that exude the console's style is far fewer. The green and black Turtle Beach Recon 70x not only looks like an Xbox peripheral, but it produces well-balanced and powerful sound at a reasonable price.
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The Recon 70x's sound quality is better than a buyer might expect from a cheaper headset. It avoids overemphasizing bass tones, and a full range of sound effects and dialogue are heard clearly in games. The Recon 70x is primarily a stereo device, though Xbox gamers can benefit from Windows Sonic spatial audio or Dolby Atmos with a separate license.
Surprisingly resilient with a nearly all-plastic construction, the Recon 70x has a tight, secure fit on most heads. The headset's ear cushions are sufficiently plush for long gaming sessions but are thin, limiting passive noise cancellation.
Turtle Beach is proud of its high-quality microphones, and the Recon 70x has a flip-to-mute mic that excels during intense multiplayer gaming. As a Microsoft Xbox-approved headset, Turtle Beach emphasizes its compatibility with the Windows Sonic spatial audio format, which surrounds gamers with a rich and dynamic soundscape. Despite its Xbox branding, the Recon 70x is also compatible with PCs and other consoles thanks to its analog audio input.
The Turtle Beach Recon 70x is the top wired gaming headset for Xbox supporters. Its microphone and sound quality defy its very reasonable asking price.
Razer Kraken Gaming Headset
Razer Kraken is one of the more popular headsets from a world-renowned gaming brand. It features 7.1 Surround Sound, a retractable noise-isolating microphone, cooling cushions with gel infusion, and strong padding around its durable aluminum frame.
The custom-tuned 50mm drivers on the 3rd generation Kraken headset deliver both clear highs and booming bass. The headset is compatible with most platforms, including PC, PlayStation, Switch, and Xbox.
- Type
- Headset
- Color Options
- Green, Black, Blue, White, Pink
- What's Included
- Headset, Charging Cord
- Brand
- Razer
- Compatibility
- PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox
- Weight
- 323 grams
- Very comfortable
- PlayStation-friendly color available
- Good build quality for a modest price
- Bass can overwhelm mid and high tones
- Barebones controls and feature set
The 3D Audio-compatible Sony Pulse Elite is an extremely popular choice for PlayStation gamers, but the stalwart Razer Kraken is also an attractive option. Available in a blue and black color scheme that appeals to PlayStation fans who appreciate darker themes, the Kraken is a hard-to-resist combination of performance, style, and comfort.
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The Razer Kraken sports custom-tuned 50 mm drivers, which can output audio at potentially dangerous volume levels. Nevertheless, high, mid, and low sounds remain distinguishable. Razer improves on past versions of the Kraken by placing cooling gel in the earcups so the headset remains comfortable even after hours of use. Gamers with larger heads are in luck since the headset is on the larger side for an affordable device. While its styling screams PlayStation, like the best gaming headphones, the Kraken is also compatible with PC and Xbox consoles.
Outputting a typical gaming headset mix heavy on the bass, the Kraken's overall sound output could be more well-rounded. Even so, many PlayStation users will be focused on action-packed games, where explosions and gunfire are abundant. The Kraken doesn't natively support surround sound, but PS5 gamers will find its sound more dynamic with Tempest 3D audio active.
Comfortable and well-built, gamers can save some money by choosing this PlayStation headset over first-party wireless alternatives. More importantly, with the Kraken, they can game comfortably for hours with a powerful eardrum-rattling soundscape.
Audio-Technica ATH-G1
The ATH-G1 gaming headset features specially tuned, large-diameter 45mm drivers. With a max input of 1,300mW, these gaming headphones deliver an immersive sound quality for the ultimate gaming experience. The wired gaming headset’s state-of-the-art flexible and detachable boom microphone ensures users are always heard loud and clear.
- Compatibility
- PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Surround Sound
- No
- Microphone
- Condenser
- Noise Cancellation
- No
- Frequency Response
- 5 – 40,000 Hz
- Mic Frequency Response
- 30 – 20,000 Hz
- Crystal clear microphone
- Compatible with all platforms
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Straightforward to use
- Easy to accidentally change the volume
- Cable isn't detachable
While Audio-Technica doesn't have a big name for itself in the gaming headset community, it's producing some excellent headsets that sound amazing. Better yet, they use microphones with superior recording quality compared to the typical gaming headset. Gamers looking to get voice quality that sounds as good as a standalone mic should look no further than the Audio-Technica ATH-G1.
The detachable hypercardioid has a very precise pickup pattern that does an excellent job of picking up the user's voice and very little around it. Voices sound natural no matter the frequency spoken, but because condenser mics need a bit more power than dynamic mics, they are a bit too quiet without any gain. Thankfully, bumping up the gain a couple of dBs doesn't result in a loss in quality at all.
Like most other wired headsets, the ATH-G1 works on any platform that supports audio and mic over a single port, which is very straightforward. The one downside that can lead to some longevity concerns is the fact that the wire is not removable. This can become a problem because the whole headset might as well be replaced when the wire goes bad.
The Audio-Technica ATH-G1 also impresses with a lightweight design that resembles a whispy cloud on heads. Whether a balanced soundscape, comfort, or microphone quality is the priority, the ATH-G1 is the best wired gaming headset.
Drop + EPOS PC38X Gaming Headset
The Drop + EPOS PC38X gaming headset is an upgraded version of the beloved PC37X. The new version comes with improved comfort, build quality, and sonic performance. With advanced audio technologies, the PC38X can deliver more accurate locational audio information, which might help the player score some extra kills or avoid the enemy. The drivers from EPOS deliver some of the best quality audio available. The headset has a noise-canceling microphone optimized to handle voice communications.
- Microphone
- Noise-cancelling
- Compatibility
- PS4, PS5, PC, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
- What's Included
- Audio cables, Extra earpads
- Brand
- Drop
- Weight
- 253 grams without cable
- Frequency Response
- 10Hz - 30000Hz
- Very comfortable ear cushions
- Well-balanced sound
- Fantastic directional audio for gaming
- No software for easy audio tuning
- Open-backed design lets sound escape
Demanding audiophiles often shun gaming headsets, considering them inferior pieces of gear. The Drop + Epsos PC38X resembles traditional headphones with a microphone attached, but the results are hard to argue with. Compared to the PC37X, the PC38X has a 28-ohm driver impedance, making it more practical for gamers without an amplifier.
With an open-back design, this wired headset is not the best option for gamers in noisy environments since sound more easily escapes from the earcups. Even so, the PC38X is exceptionally comfortable for extended hours with a well-padded headband and mesh-knit ear cushions. Gamers will also receive two sets of earpads, including a velour version if the mesh-knit feel isn't appealing. The PC38X is shockingly light at just 253 grams, with a professional look that matches studio headphones. The headset ships with two cables, one with separate microphone and audio connections for PCs and a singular cord connecting to console controllers and headphone jacks.
The PC38X's open-back design and angled drivers have plenty of benefits, including its ability to support spatial audio. With a greater surface area, gamers can pinpoint the location of approaching danger before tragedy strikes. However, no software is compatible with the PC38X, so buyers must rely on the device's well-balanced sound instead of making manual adjustments.
Hardly an afterthought, the noise-canceling microphone included with the Drop + Epsos PC38X records audio almost as well as standalone mics. The flip-to-mute mic excels at capturing audio nearby, reducing static interference that could disrupt multiplayer communication.
As great as headphones like the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro that Ninja relies on sound, having a standalone microphone is not an option for some gamers. The Drop + Epsos PC38X offers a perfectly balanced soundscape while requiring little or no compromises in its recording quality.
Still Need Help Picking a Wired Gaming Headset?
As this guide demonstrates, there are excellent wired headsets at many different price points, making a decision even more difficult for prospective buyers. Some of the most important factors to keep in mind when shopping for a wired gaming headset include:
Platform Compatibility
Some gamers turn to wired headsets, thinking they will provide the widest compatibility with PCs and consoles. Sadly, some headsets use a USB connection meant primarily for PCs. Not all these devices will work with Xbox consoles, and some will only have limited functionality with other gaming systems. The Logitech G Pro X, selected as Game ZXC's overall best wired gaming headset, avoids most of these compatability issues. A cheaper alternative not mentioned is the almost equally excellent BlackShark V2 X. Both headsets are stylish and connect to most devices with limited compromises, thanks to USB or analog audio connectivity.
Build Quality
Build quality can vary quite a bit from headset to headset, with price not always the best predictor of how long a certain model will last. However, the high-end SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro adds a considerable amount of metal to its headband to resist the stress of being worn for years. Also, the round metal discs on the outside of its earcups add a touch of class to this premium example of gaming gear. With memory foam earpads and clamping force that can adjust to fit any head, even budget gaming headsets like the Razer Kraken V3 X can be pleasant to wear for hours on end. Finally, esports pros are the best testers of build quality, and the Astro A40 TR remains a fixture at tournaments because of the use of metal at all its most sensitive points.
Surround Sound
Surround sound can enhance a gaming experience by enabling gamers to locate where sounds are emanating from in a virtual environment. Unfortunately, not all platforms and games support the same 5.1 or 7.1 channel audio technologies. The HyperX Cloud Orbit S is the best option for surround sound gaming, with the ability to accurately track head movements. This headset supports 3D audio through a USB connection to PCs, but with an analog audio adapter, it's also a good option to take advantage of spatial audio on consoles.
Gamers don't have to spend a fortune to experience more dynamic gaming audio. Although the Cloud Orbit S is very pricey, the Razer Kraken V3 X can simulate 7.1 surround sound through downloadable THX software.
Microphone Quality
Finally, if a headset has a poor microphone, a gamer might as well use traditional headphones without a mic at all. The Drop + EPOS PC38X looks much like a pair of studio headphones but has a built-in microphone that rivals the quality of some standalone mics. The noise-canceling microphone on the PC38X is designed to record high-quality audio in an area as close to a gamer's voice as possible.
Perhaps the best gaming headset for microphone quality is the Audio-Technica ATH-G1. Benefiting from a precise hypercardioid design, the mic on his wired headset indentifies exactly where voices are coming from.
There are dozens of other features to think about, such as cord length, whether a headset has RGB lighting, or if a mic is detachable. Buyers should decide what's important to them before finally choosing their favorite gaming headset.
Astro A50 X Gaming Headset Review
Astro takes versatility to the next level with its A50 X, a wireless gaming headset that's tailor-made for the three major platforms.
FAQ
Q: How do I know if a wired gaming headset is right for me?
Wired gaming headsets offer a number of benefits, including a stable and consistent connection, low latency, and the ability to use the headset with a range of devices. If you prefer a wired connection and don't mind the added hassle of connecting the headset to your device, a wired gaming headset may be the right choice for you.
Q: Can I use a wired gaming headset with my phone or tablet?
Yes, many wired gaming headsets are compatible with mobile devices and tablets. However, you may need to purchase an adapter or use a splitter to connect the headset to your device.
Q: Do pro gamers use wired headsets?
For competitions, pro gamers gravitate toward wired headsets to eliminate concerns over wireless interference in crowded rooms. On the other hand, like casual gamers, esports competitors often prefer the freedom of wireless headsets for home use.