Effective gaming headsets are very important in the gaming world as they allow gamers to communicate with other players clearly, stream games seamlessly, and enjoy immersive and quality sound from movies or TV. They come with many handy perks and features, such as several input options, customizable LEDs, noise cancelation, and surround sound.
The Best Gaming Microphones For 2024
Gaming headsets might be incredibly convenient, but a dedicated gaming microphone provides a huge step up in mic quality.
However, while most quality gaming headsets feature a great sound, some don't cut it when it comes to the microphone quality. A headset with a good mic can make a big difference in a gaming session as it can minimize background noise, enhance audio presence, and capture a gamer's voice clearly. These gaming headsets offer mic quality that rivals some high-end dedicated mics, plus the convenience of a gaming headset.
Key Factors For Choosing The Best Headsets With The Best Mic Quality
- Pickup Patterns: The type of mic is crucial to deciding whether it is a good fit. Most gaming headsets use a cardioid or hyper-cardioid pickup pattern. Cardioid microphones are great for picking up sounds directly in front of them and not much else. This is the ideal pickup pattern for most gamers because outside noise, like other people talking or mice and keyboards, will not overpower the call.
- Mic Placement: Mic placement plays hand in hand with the pickup pattern. Most gaming headsets have mics attached to boom arms that can get the mic right in front of the speaker's mouth. But everyone's head shape is a little different, so headsets that might line up perfectly for one gamer might not for another. Looking for a headset that has a flexible yet rigid boom arm will typically yield the best results, regardless of size.
- Overall Sound Quality: Even if the mics have the same pickup pattern and placement, they are not always guaranteed to sound the same. When looking for headsets with the best mic quality, try to find videos of people testing the mic to hear how the mic sounds.
The Best Gaming Headsets With The Best Mic Quality
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro 2023 Edition
The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro offers the ultimate combination of comfort, sound quality, and reliable wireless connectivity. Razer's 50mm TriForce drivers keep low, mid, and high tones separated for a more accurate soundscape. Gamers can wear the BlackShark V2 Pro for hours at a time, thanks to its combination of breathable memory foam ear cushions and a headband that adapts to any size of the head. In the 2023 edition of this headset, the detachable Razer Hyperclear cardioid mic now captures a wider range of human voice without background interference. Also, battery life has been improved substantially and now stands at 70 hours through Razer's low-latency Hyperspeed Wireless USB adapter or Bluetooth.
- Microphone
- Noise cancelling, Detachable
- Compatibility
- PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Mobile
- Brand
- Razer
- Surround Sound
- THX 7.1
- Weight
- 320 grams
- Battery Life
- 70 hours
- Fantastic mic quality
- Comfortable fit
- Excellent audio quality
- Stable wireless connection
- Pricey
- Not as good of performance on console
There are quite a few boxes to check to earn the title of best overall headset with excellent mic quality. The Razer Blackshark V2 Pro can check all of those boxes and then some. This headset is perfect for gamers who want a wireless gaming headset that sounds great, is pretty comfortable, and offers exceptional mic quality.
The Razer Blackshark V2 Pro looks a lot like its wired predecessor, the Razer Blackshark V2, and for the most part, the two headsets offer very similar performance, but where this headset sets itself apart is the mic quality. The microphone on this headset picks up accurate and natural-sounding voice recordings regardless of the frequency of the user's voice. There is still a bit of de-emphasis for people with very low voices, but for the most part, people will be happy with how they sound using this headset.
With this being a wireless headset, Game ZXC didn't have the highest expectations for the mic quality, but this mic even competes with dedicated mic quality. The Blackshark V2 Pro can easily be used as a mic for content creators and streamers. Thanks to Razer's suite of customization options, people can even set their EQs with this mic to nail down the mic quality for a specific user.
Corsair HS80 RGB Gaming Headset
The Corsair HS80 RGB Gaming Headset is a high-quality headset developed by Corsair and built with gamers in mind. Coming in two simple colors, this quality headset is perfect for anyone who likes a simple style on their PC gaming rig. The Corsair HS80 RGB Gaming Headset has excellent low latency sound, making connectivity and sound lag almost completely nonexistent. Get the most out of this headset with a broadcast-grade omnidirectional microphone that's perfect for streaming or just talking with friends.
- Excellent mic quality
- Comfortable fit
- iCue software is straightforward to use
- Affordable
- Short battery life
- De-emphasized bass
- Wired connectivity is finicky
Corsair has been making some excellent gaming headsets for some time now. The Corsair HS80 RGB brings the same sound quality and wireless stability that gamers expect from Corsair headsets but at a more affordable price. Even though the HS80 RGB is part of Corsair's budget lineup, the mic on this headset sounds so good that it is well worth looking at, even for gamers looking in more premium price ranges.
This headset uses an omnidirectional broadcast-grade microphone, unlike the cardioid microphone of the Razer Blackshark V2 Pro. While this mic does let in a bit more background noise, it does not detract from the overall quality of this mic. Voices sound natural, no matter what frequency the user is speaking at. However, gamers will probably want to turn up the gain in Discord or Corsair's iCue app because the mic is a bit quiet.
When it comes to sound quality, the HS80 RGB does fall a bit short. The mids and highs are pretty flat and faithfully recreate those frequencies, but the lows are de-emphasized. This is not a total deal-breaker, especially with some EQing, but gunshots and heavy action scenes don't have the same immersive quality as other headsets.
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.
- Microphone
- Condenser
- Compatibility
- PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Surround Sound
- No
- Noise Cancellation
- No
- Frequency Response
- 5 – 40,000 Hz
- Mic Frequency Response
- 30 – 20,000 Hz
- Good microphone
- Compatible with all platforms
- Straight-forward to use
- Lightweight, yet durable construction
- Easy to accidentally change the volume
- The cable is not detachable
Audio-Technica is probably best known for the ATH-M50X headphones with their chunky oval earcups and retro design. The ATH-G1 headset does not deviate too far from this path looks-wise, and even though the ATH-G1 has a frequency response that's more similar to a gaming headset than a set of reference headphones, the excellent sound quality that Audio-Technica is known for is still here.
The detachable condenser microphone is spectacular. The hyper-cardioid pickup pattern is precise and only picks up the voice directly in front of it. Voices sound natural no matter the frequency spoken, but because condenser mics need a bit more power than dynamic mics, it is a bit too quiet without any gain. Thankfully, adding a couple of dB of gain doesn't introduce unwanted noise or loss in quality.
The Best Headphones To Buy In 2024
Not all headphones are made equal. Here are some of the best choices that are available today to satisfy buyers' ears.
With the ATH-G1 being a wired headset, using it on any platform that supports audio and mic over a single port is very straightforward. Because of Audio-Technica's reputation for products that are easy to repair, it is weird that this headset doesn't have a removable cable, but it feels sturdy enough that it is not too much of a concern.
Beyerdynamic MMX 200
The MMX 200 wireless combines studio sound with an excellent microphone and wireless connection. The MMX 200 wireless headphones offer a versatile experience for gamers who need to use them in various situations. The 9.9 mm capsule of the microphone enables a lifelike and natural voice image while suppressing outside noises like keyboards and mouse clicks. However, if gamers want a discreet gaming headset that can also be worn in public, the mic can be removed and the MMX 200 can be used as a set of Bluetooth headphones.
- Battery Life
- Up to 35 hours
- Bluetooth
- Bluetooth 5.3
- Microphones
- Condenser - Cardioid
- Supported codecs
- A2DP, HFP, SBC, LC3
- Charging type
- USB-C
- Frequency range
- 20 Hz – 20.000 Hz
- Driver size
- 40 mm
- Excellent audio and mic quality
- Wired and wireless connection is well implemented
- Comfortable
- Can remove the mic and use it as normal Bluetooth headphones
- No equalization options for mic
- Earpads are not very breathable
Just like Audio-Technica, Beyerdynamic is getting into the gaming headset world after being a mainstay in the professional audio equipment world for years. The MMX 200 offers excellent sound and mic quality, a low-latency wireless connection, and a comfortable design that can easily be worn for long gaming sessions. However, all of this does come at a premium price.
The Logitech G Pro X 2 and Audeze Maxwell wireless sit at a similar price point, but neither offers as outstanding mic quality as the MMX 200. The relatively large condenser capsule does an excellent job of picking up the user's voice, no matter the frequency, thanks to its extended frequency response range of 50Hz to 18kHz. Most other gaming headset mics offer 100Hz to 10KHz. This more comprehensive range allows the mic to capture a much fuller sound.
Compared to Beyerdynamic's professional headphones like the DT 770, the MMX 200's sound quality doesn't hold up, but compared to other gaming headsets, the MMX 200 sounds incredible. Just don't expect to be able to mix and master audio files with this headset.
Logitech G432 Wired Gaming Headset
The Logitech G432 is a wired headset designed for gaming. The on-ear headphones deliver a frequency response area of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, and the large 50-millimeter audio drivers produce a sound capable of an immersive gaming experience.
The headset comes with support for advanced DTS surround sound, which can help gamers locate enemies thanks to precise positional audio and a 3D soundscape. The headset's microphone includes a convenient flip-to-mute function, and volume controls on the left ear cup. The Logitech G432 supports most devices with a 3.5 mm connector to USB DAC input.
- Microphone
- Boom, Cardioid
- Compatibility
- PC, Xbox, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Mobile
- Brand
- Logitech
- Surround Sound
- Yes
- Weight
- 280 g
- Very affordable
- Surround sound works well
- Decent mic quality
- Easy to use
- Cheap build quality
- Mic cuts out lower frequencies
Most of the headsets in this guide do not qualify as a budget option, except the Corsair HS80 RGB. The Logitech G432, while not the flashiest headset out there, is perfect for gamers looking for a headset that won't break the bank but still provides decent sound quality and a mic that is intelligible enough to talk on Discord. This headset's predecessor, the Logitech G430, has been a fan favorite for years, and the G432 offers an excellent way for gamers to get that same experience with a brand-new headset.
This is not the best headset mic available, but gamers would be hard-pressed to find a better sound for this price. However, the lower frequencies are relatively de-emphasized, so gamers with lower voices will find their voice sounds clipped and tinny with this headset. At this price range, gamers with lower voices will probably have more luck finding a dedicated mic that sounds better for their voice than a headset. However, this headset is very clear and natural sounding for gamers with a voice that fits in the mid or high-range.
Sound quality-wise, the G432 actually outperforms its price point, especially with its support for 7.1 surround sound. Action scenes feel immersive, and picking up the direction of sounds is fairly easy. However, the soundtrack can sometimes interfere with and override the game's audio.
HyperX Cloud III Wireless Gaming Headset
The Foyose 7.1 surround sound gaming headset is perfect for gamers on a tight budget, with many features that make it an excellent bargain.Gamers can appreciate its surround sound, supported by its highly accurate drivers. The outcome is an immersive audio experience ideal for gaming. The microphone doesn't disappoint when it comes to its capabilities. It can bend 360 degrees for user comfort and relies on advanced noise-canceling technology to capture the gamer's voice while eliminating distractive background noises.
- Microphone
- Noise cancelling Boom Mic with Mute LED
- Compatibility
- PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch
- What's Included
- Detached Microphone, USB-C charging cable, 2.4GHz dongle, USB adapter
- Brand
- HyperX
- Surround Sound
- Yes, Virtual
- Noise Cancellation
- No
- Excellent battery life
- Detachable mic
- Straightforward on-unit controls
- Fantastic microphone quality
- Headphone audio quality is not the best
HyperX has possibly released the most reliable headsets in recent memory; whether gamers are using a PC, PS5, or Xbox, HyperX headsets deliver solid performance all around. The HyperX Cloud III Wireless is possibly one of the best headsets for PS5 gamers, especially when it comes to high-quality microphones. PlayStation gamers who want to sound the best in their party chat must pick up the Cloud III for an excellent wireless headset that is a joy to game with.
The detachable boom mic is not the best in this guide, but it is incredibly clear and natural sounding regardless of who is using it. Some gaming headset mics like to cut off the top and low end to help cut out background noise, but the Cloud III can cut a lot of background sound while still sounding natural and full. Plus, the flexible yet sturdy boom arm makes getting the mic in an ideal position for the best-sounding recording easy.
While the mic sounds absolutely amazing, this headset's headphones leave a bit to be desired. Voices get a bit muffled, and in scenes where a lot is going on it is hard to distinguish sounds from each other, but it is not entirely detrimental. Games and music still sound good, but they are nowhere near the quality of a headset like the Corsair HS80 or Drop + Epos PC38X.
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.
- Weight
- 253 grams without cable
- Microphone
- Noise-cancelling
- Compatibility
- PS4, PS5, PC, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
- Frequency Response
- 10Hz - 30000Hz
- Studio-level audio quality
- Simple design that is very comfortable
- Lightweight
- Mic is easy to position
- Mic pops quite easily
- A bit pricey
Drop has been pairing up with well-known headphone brands to produce more affordable fan favorites with input from the community on how to make them better. These partnerships have brought forth headphones like the Drop+Sennheiser HD6XX and now the Drop+EPOS PC38X. This headset combines amazing open-back headphones, a comfortable, lightweight design that can easily be worn all day, and a microphone that sounds like it belongs in a recording booth.
Unlike many gaming headsets that focus on creating a good-sounding gaming experience, the EPOS PC38X sounds terrific when used for listening to music, watching movies, and, most importantly, playing games. Thanks to its open-back design, this headset has a very wide sound stage that makes anything played through it feel immersive and like a surround sound experience without using software.
Besides struggling with plosives, which are when some speaking emphasizes Ps and Bs, this mic sounds incredible. The somewhat rigid arm makes it easy to position this mic properly without having to fuss too much, plus it has the convenient flip-to-mute function. The mic frequency response range is just a bit narrower than the Beyerdynamic MMX 200 at 50Hz to 16 KHz, but in real-world testing, that slight difference is not that noticeable.
Audeze Maxwell Gaming Headset
The Audeze Maxwell Gaming Headset defies the notion that audiophile-grade headsets can't be wireless or intended for gamers. The Maxwell simply leaves other wireless gaming headsets in the dust with its 90 mm planar magnetic drivers pumping out rumbling bass effects. The headset has a tank-like construction with a spring steel headband.
The Maxwell Gaming Headset is available in two versions compatible with PlayStation or Xbox consoles, with either variety perfect for PC gamers. With just a 20-minute charge, the wireless headset can endure 80 hours of gameplay.
- Brand
- Audeze
- Microphone
- FILTER noise reduction, Detachable boom
- Compatibility
- PS4, PS5, Xbox, PC
- Surround Sound
- Dolby Atmos (Xbox Version) Tempest 3D (PlayStation Version)
- Weight
- 490 grams
- Battery Life
- 80 hours
- Frequency Response
- 10Hz - 50kHz
- Driver
- 90mm Planar Magnetic
- Excellent sound quality
- Physical mute switch
- Very comfortable
- Natural voice recording
- Not comfortable for long-term gaming sessions
- Heavy
Audeze is no stranger to making high-end headphones, so it's no surprise that the Maxwell headset is one of the best-sounding headsets currently available. However, the fact that the microphone also sounds fantastic is unexpected. Yet it does. This headset can make any party chat sound amazing for Xbox users and is incredibly easy to connect to an Xbox using the dongle.
The Maxwell has two microphones: the internal omnidirectional and the detachable boom microphone. Both sound pretty good, but the detachable boom is the way to go for gamers looking for the best results. This mic delivers a very natural-sounding voice recording. However, Game ZXC recommends that gamers give the capsule a reasonable distance from their mouth for the least amount of sibilants. The "s" and "sh" noises can sound a bit distorted otherwise.
Besides the brand-new Sony Pulse Elite, the Audeze Maxwell headset is the only gaming headset with planar magnetic drivers. Now that Sony has bought Audeze, these might be the only headsets that Xbox gamers can experience a planar magnetic headset that is fully compatible with the console for quite some time. Planar magnetic headphones deliver an incredibly special sound that sounds much tighter and more responsive than dynamic drivers. Gamers who have never tried one before should definitely try it, and the Maxwell is a reasonably affordable way to do so.
How To Choose Gaming Headsets With The Best Mic Quality
There are plenty of gaming headsets out there that offer immersive sound quality but also allow gamers to communicate with their teammates. However, picking the right gaming headset with the best mic quality can be overwhelming. Users have to balance between sound quality and microphone quality, durability, comfort, and so on. To choose the best headset with the best mic quality, keep these aspects in mind:
The Type of Headset Microphone
Headphones usually come with various types of mics, like clip-on, in-line, or boom. Boom mics are the most popular, as they offer the best sound quality. Gamers might also come across unidirectional and omnidirectional headset mics. The former picks up sound from a specific direction, which is ideal for voice calls and gaming. The latter picks up sound from various directions, which is ideal for streaming or recording.
Pickup Pattern
Cardioid is ideal for most gamers because outside noise, like other people talking or mice and keyboards, will not overpower the call.
Mic Noise Reduction
The headset should have noise-canceling mics that filter or reduce background sounds. It should be able to filter out noise from the surrounding environment, such as traffic or wind.
The Mic's Sensitivity and Frequency
A good headset mic should have high sensitivity and broad frequency response for natural and precise sound reproduction.
Overall Sound Quality
When looking for headsets with the best mic quality, try to find videos of people testing the mic to hear how the mic sounds.
Comfort
Comfort is a necessity, particularly for gamers who play for long hours. The headsets should be adjustable, with padded parts to reduce fatigue when gaming.
Wired or Wireless
Headsets can be wired or wireless, each having its own benefits. Wired headsets are convenient; users don't have to charge them for use, but they can restrict movement. Wireless headsets allow for maximum movement, but they need frequent charging.
Device Compatibility
Buyers should get headphones that are compatible with their devices. The best gaming headsets are versatile and work with numerous platforms, such as PCs, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, and PlayStation.
Best Surround Sound Gaming Headsets for 2024
Any gamer looking for a true surround sound experience with a gaming headset will want to check out this list.
FAQ
Q: What type of microphone is best for gaming?
Gaming headset microphones need to transmit the user's voice clearly and with enough volume so everyone can hear them. Typically, cardioid or hyper-cardioid microphones are the best for this because they have a very narrow pick-up pattern so that the gamer can be heard clearly, but the noises around them are not picked up.
Q: Is a dynamic or condenser mic better for gaming?
One is not always better than the other. Dynamic mics are good at not distorting louder sounds, whereas cardioid mics are better at picking up quieter sounds with more detail. If the gamer is yelling a lot or has a naturally louder speaking voice, a dynamic mic will sound a bit better. For gamers who don't talk very loudly, a cardioid microphone will probably sound better.
