The best gaming headsets can transform a video game from a harmless diversion into a completely immersive experience. While cheap headphones can technically reproduce game sounds, a great gaming headset can highlight important noises, deliver rich music, allow you to customize your soundscape for different applications, and communicate with your teammates via a high-quality microphone.
Even if you already have a good set of speakers, a gaming headset can prove its worth by allowing you to play late at night without disturbing the rest of the family.
Of course, there are many peripherals available, and not all of them make the cut. The ones on our best gaming headsets list all provide good sound and comfortable fits, but they also go above and beyond their competitors. Sometimes they do this by providing the essentials at a low cost; other times, they provide a premium experience at a high cost. There is something for every play style and budget, whether you prefer PS4 games, Xbox One games, or Switch games. You can improve your gaming experience even more by using one of our top picks for the best gaming mouse.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7P/7X is our pick for the best gaming headset overall if you are willing to pay a premium. This wireless model has an extremely comfortable elastic headband and is compatible with every platform on the market, from the PS5 to the Xbox Series X to Android phones. If you prefer to use an older device with a headphone jack, simply connect the Arctis 7P/7X via a 3.5 mm cable. The Arctis 7P/7X has a lot to offer, including customizable soundscapes and long battery life.
The HyperX Cloud Stinger, which usually retails for $50 or less, is a good option for those on a tight budget. This best gaming headset includes plush earcups, on-ear volume controls, and a sturdy boom mic, as well as everything you need for a gaming setup. Granted, the sound can become distorted at higher volumes, but as far as budget headsets go, that is a minor complaint. It is comfortable to wear for extended periods of time and can be used with any system that has a headphone jack.
Compatibility: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Switch, Android
Drivers: 40mm
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
Wireless: Yes
The $149 SteelSeries Arctis 7P/7X gaming headset is the complete package and the best overall, offering great sound, consistent wireless performance, and a comfortable, attractive design at a reasonable price. The 2.4-GHz wireless connectivity of the headset keeps you glued to your game without lag or interference. Even better, you can enjoy the wireless performance with any system, from a PS5 to a Nintendo Switch in handheld mode to an Android phone, thanks to its USB-C dongle and USB-A adapter.
The Arctis 7P/7X is a rare gaming headset that you will actually want to use as your daily headphones, thanks to its stylish, understated design and variants in both black and white. The device is also extremely comfortable, thanks to an elastic headband that conforms to your dome and a pair of soft, lightweight earcups. When you combine a clear microphone, a 24-hour battery, and a plethora of customization options, you have got a winner.
2. Razer Blackshark V2
SPECIFICATIONS
Compatibility: PC, PS5, PS4, Switch, Xbox One
Drivers: 50 mm
Frequency Response: 12 Hz – 28 kHz
Wireless: No
The Razer Blackshark V2 is the best headset Razer has ever made, and that is saying a lot. This mid-range wired headset delivers excellent sound for both games and music, thanks to its innovative THX profiles. The famous film audio company has lent its expertise to make the Blackshark V2’s surround sound realistic and nuanced — especially for a few games with their own optimized profiles, such as Apex Legends and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice.
The Blackshark V2 is extremely sleek and comfortable, unlike some of Razer’s bulkier headsets, making it easy to transport to esports tournaments. However, getting it to fit properly can be a pain, and the Razer software can be difficult to use at times. Still, at less than $100, the Blackshark V2 provides excellent value as well as some novel audio options for your favorite games.
The Logitech G Pro X offers tournament-level performance for a low price of $130. The headset’s distinguished black design stands out from the crowd, thanks in part to its flexible headband and supremely comfortable foam and leatherette earcup options. Comfort is not enough to recommend a product as one of the best gaming headsets, but it is arguably the most important factor we consider. It is not very useful if you can not wear a headset for more than a few minutes at a time.
Whether you are playing on PC or console, the Go Pro X delivers rich, accurate sound right out of the box. It is also the first gaming headset with an integrated Blue microphone, allowing for extra-clear voice chat whether you are practicing Apex Legends with your squad or streaming to your online fans. The Logitech G Pro X Wireless model is also worth considering. You should also learn how to use the Logitech G Hub if you do not already.
4. SteelSeries Arctis Pro + GameDAC
SPECIFICATIONS
Compatibility: PS4, PC (with GameDAC), Xbox One, Switch, mobile (analog)
Drivers: 40mm
Frequency Response: 10 Hz – 40 kHz
Wireless: No
SteelSeries’ Arctis Pro + GameDAC enhances the already excellent Arctis design with audiophile-grade features. This headset includes a DAC (digital-to-analog converter), allowing it to deliver high-resolution 96-kHz/24-bit audio. The GameDAC also offers a plethora of customization options, such as the ability to fine-tune sound using an equalizer or customize the headset’s subtle RGB lighting.
When it comes to gaming, we discovered that the Arctis Pro is noticeably louder and crisper than the traditional Arctis line. The Arctis Pro + GameDAC is one of the best gaming headset combos available if you are willing to pay a premium for high-resolution sound support and a slew of features. If you already have a favorite pair of headphones for working, you can purchase the GameDAC separately.
5. HyperX Cloud Stinger
SPECIFICATIONS
Compatibility: PS, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Switch, mobile
Drivers: 50mm
Frequency Response: 18 Hz – 23 kHz
Wireless: No
The $50 HyperX Cloud Stinger demonstrates that you do not have to give up comfort just because you are on a tight budget. The Stinger’s sturdy, feather-light frame and soft, faux-leather earcups make it one of the best budget gaming headsets we have tried yet, and its convenient on-ear controls and solid microphone do not hurt either. Finding a comfortable fit is arguably the most important aspect of a gaming headset, and the Cloud Stinger does not disappoint in this regard.
The Stinger also has a good audio quality for the price – though at maximum volume, things can get a little blown out. However, if you want good sound in a superbly comfortable set of cans for less than $50, the Stinger is an excellent choice. If you want to enjoy the Stinger’s excellent design without having to deal with wires, the $99 Cloud Stinger Wireless is a good option.
