Best gaming headsets

Gaming headsets are one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to your setup. While regular headphones can work for gaming, they often miss crucial features that enhance immersion and multiplayer communication. A quality gaming headset will reveal subtle audio details you never knew you were missing—from enemy footsteps to environmental cues—while providing a clear, integrated microphone for coordinating with teammates.

Given the number of gaming headsets on the market in 2024, finding the right one can be overwhelming. After extensive testing at Sound Guys, we’ve sorted through the options to bring you this carefully curated list of the best gaming headsets for every budget and platform. Whether you’re looking to spend $60 or $200+, these picks deliver exceptional audio quality, comfort, and features that will transform your gaming experience.

Best Sound Quality: Audeze Maxwell

If you’re a trained listener who refuses to compromise on sound quality in games, the Audeze Maxwell is in a league of its own. Using the same planar magnetic driver technology found in high-end studio headphones, this headset reveals audio details other gaming headsets simply can’t reproduce. The expansive soundstage and precise imaging let you hear exactly where every footstep, gunshot, and environmental sound is coming from, while the deep, controlled bass adds weight to explosions without overwhelming the mid-range clarity.

Whether you’re connected via the low-latency wireless dongle, Bluetooth 5.3, or USB-C, you’re getting best-in-class sound quality. The Audeze HQ app lets you fine-tune your experience with spatial audio and EQ presets, though honestly, the default tuning is already exceptional. While there’s no active noise cancelation, the deep ear cups and plush pads provide excellent passive isolation while maintaining long-term comfort.

Beyond its acoustic achievements, the Maxwell nails the gaming essentials. The intuitive game/chat mix wheel makes audio adjustments effortless, the battery life is extensive, and the microphone quality is clear and natural. Yes, it’s expensive and a bit bulky, but for gamers who consider audio quality their top priority, the Audeze Maxwell delivers a level of sound quality that makes most other gaming headsets sound ordinary in comparison.

Best ANC: Alienware Pro

For gamers who need to block out the world while they play, the Alienware Pro is a standout choice. This headset brings the kind of active noise cancelation we typically only see in flagship headphones from the likes of Sony and Bose to the gaming space, reducing up to 81% of outside noise with ANC enabled. Even with ANC off, the excellent passive isolation means you’ll stay focused on your game rather than your surroundings.

Beyond its noise canceling prowess, the Alienware Pro delivers exceptional audio quality that scored among the highest MDAQS results we’ve tested for gaming headsets. The detachable boom mic is crystal clear for team chat, while multiple connectivity options (2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.3, and USB-C) let you seamlessly switch between gaming and taking calls. With up to 70 hours of battery life, you won’t need to charge often, but when you do, just 15 minutes gives you 8 hours of playback.

The only real drawbacks are the lack of Xbox support and non-folding earcups, but if you want a premium gaming headset that doubles as an excellent pair of ANC headphones for daily use, the Alienware Pro justifies its price tag with versatility and performance.

Best microphone: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro

The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) is a substantial update on its predecessor, offering notable improvements such as enhanced microphone quality, extended battery life, and the addition of USB-C and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity. Priced at $199, it aims at gamers and remote workers who prioritize wireless convenience and audio quality during long sessions on PC, PS5, or Nintendo Switch.

The headset boasts excellent battery life, a superb microphone, and the convenience of custom audio and mic EQ settings directly on the device. However, the lack of a 3.5mm connection, no Xbox compatibility, and the inability to access Razer Synapse on mobile or Mac are notable drawbacks. Despite these limitations, its comfort, improved isolation, and sound quality make it a strong contender for those seeking a comfortable wireless gaming headset under $200 with a stellar microphone.

Best value: SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5X

If you’re looking for a single headset that works with everything, the Arctis Nova 5X is your answer. Thanks to its clever USB-C dongle with a platform switch, you can seamlessly connect to Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, PC, and mobile devices—a rare feat for any wireless gaming headset.

At $130, you get a lot for your money here. The companion app includes over 150 game-specific EQ presets (many tuned with input from game developers). The retractable mic delivers clear voice chat, and the comfortable fabric earpads keep you cool during long gaming sessions. Battery life is impressive, too, lasting over 42 hours on the 2.4GHz connection with fast charging available.

While there’s no ANC and the wide dongle might block adjacent ports, these are minor tradeoffs for a headset that eliminates the need to buy separate ones for different platforms. If you game across multiple systems or want a versatile headset that can handle both gaming and daily use, the Arctis Nova 5X offers exceptional value.

Best budget gaming headset: Astro A10 (Gen 2)

If you’re looking for a no-frills gaming headset that won’t break the bank, the Astro A10 (Gen 2) delivers impressive value at just $60. This plug-and-play wired headset works with any device that has a 3.5mm jack, making it universally compatible with consoles and PCs alike.

The A10 punches above its weight class in sound quality, with our tests showing strong performance in both audio accuracy and immersion. While it does emphasize bass frequencies—making explosions and gunshots particularly impactful—voice chat remains clear, and positional audio helps you track enemy movements. The bendable boom mic delivers clean voice capture, and the headset’s durable construction includes thoughtful features like replaceable ear pads and a detachable cable.

While it lacks premium features like wireless connectivity or active noise cancelation, the Astro A10 (Gen 2) nails the gaming essentials at an entry-level price point. Just note that it runs a bit small, so those with larger heads might want to try it before buying.

The Drop + EPOS PC38X is our open-back pick

The Drop + EPOS PC38X stands out as one of the few open-back wired gaming headsets available. It offers excellent mid-range accuracy and spatial depth, providing an immersive audio experience with clear vocals and precise sound localization. The headset features a high-quality microphone that performs well even in noisy environments.

While it lacks sub-bass emphasis and customization options, its wide soundstage and breathable design make it ideal for extended gaming sessions. The PC38X comes with two types of ear pads (microfiber and velour) and is compatible with various platforms through its wired connection. However, its bulky design and strong clamping force may not suit everyone. At $170, it’s a solid choice for gamers who prioritize audio clarity and communication over deep bass response.

Notable mentions

• Corsair VIRTUOSO PRO ($199.99 at Amazon): The Corsair VIRTUOSO PRO is a rather unique option for gamers and creative professionals. The open-back design is only good for quiet environments, but otherwise, this headset performs well for gaming, streaming, listening to music, and virtual meetings.
• Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT ($219 at Amazon): This has all the same strengths as the Corsair Virtuoso Wireless SE on our list, only it now adds Bluetooth and aptX HD support. If you want something for a little wider usage than the typical gaming headset, this could be a great option, but it’s considerably more expensive than the SE, and the battery life is a little lackluster.
• EPOS H3PRO Hybrid ($203 at Amazon): This is still a really capable option despite getting knocked out of our list, but it’s just a little on the expensive side. Give it a look if any of our picks don’t appeal to you.
• HyperX Cloud Alpha ($69 at Amazon): This headset boasts an incredible 327-hour battery life—over four times longer than its closest competitor—with excellent build quality and comfort, though it’s limited by being wireless-only with no ability to use while charging.
• HyperX Cloud Orbit S ($218 at Amazon): This is a great option for the person who wants something as good as Audeze Mobius but doesn’t necessarily need every feature under the sun. The Cloud Orbit S is based on the Mobius, with the same 100mm planar magnetic drivers and 3D audio features, but it jettisons the Bluetooth support. Plus, it’s cheaper.
• Logitech G PRO X 2 LIGHTSPEED ($249 at Amazon): This gaming headset sounds good, feels good, and lasts a long time. It works almost everywhere, and it has lots of good software features to boot.
• Logitech G435 Lightspeed ($29 at Amazon): This gaming headset may look like a kid’s toy, but it packs plenty of punch beneath its pop of color. You get a lightweight headset that’s responsibly produced and sounds good for around $80 USD. If you like the design and want to up the ante a bit, go in for the Logitech G733 Lightspeed instead.
• Razer Barracuda X ($99 at Amazon): Much like the SteelSeries Arctis 7P, this wireless gaming headset uses a USB-C dongle to connect to a wide range of gaming platforms. The mic sounds great, to boot.
• Razer BlackShark V2 Pro ($119 at Amazon): Everything good we have to say about the BlackShark V2 is true about the 2020 model, but it’s wireless.
• SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless ($152.99 at Amazon): The headset sounds better than the Arctis 7’s last outing, but it’s still not perfect. Overall, this is a nice option at a relatively reasonable price that works just about everywhere.
• SteelSeries Arctis 9 Wireless ($158 at Amazon): The SteelSeries Arctis 9 Wireless brings simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connections to the already great Arctis framework. It’s a little on the pricey side, but it’s otherwise a very solid all-rounder.
• Sony INZONE H5 ($148 at Amazon): This is a solid mid-range wireless option for PC and PS5 gamers. It offers great battery life and a comfortable fit, though it lacks Bluetooth connectivity and wider platform support.

What are some good wired gaming headsets?

• Beyerdynamic MMX 100 ($99 at Amazon): Need a straightforward wired gaming headset that puts sound quality above all else? The $99 USD MMX 100 may earn a spot on your mantle.
• Beyerdynamic MMX 300 Pro ($299.99 at Amazon): This headset offers audiophile-grade sound for gaming and an excellent mic in a comfortable wired package, ideal for serious gamers who prioritize audio fidelity over bass-heavy tuning and wireless convenience.
• Bose QuietComfort 35 II Gaming Headset ($279 at Amazon): If you subscribe to the belief that the best gaming headset you can buy is just the best pair of headphones you can get, this may be the product for you. It’s the Bose QC 35 II—already a classic pair of noise canceling headphones—with a wired microphone attachment for gaming. However, it’s very expensive, and there’s no way to just buy the attachment if you’ve already got the same pair of headphones.
• Fnatic React ($64 at Amazon): Its audio output isn’t quite as accurate as the HyperX Cloud Alpha (though it comes pretty close), but if you want a reasonably priced stereo gaming headset and having a very good microphone is a priority, the Fnatic React might be just the ticket. This is a comfortable, straightforward headset, and it won’t break the bank.
• HyperX Cloud Core ($69 at Amazon): If you want a cheap wired gaming headset that often goes on sale for around $30 USD, this is it. It sounds pretty decent and features a detachable mic with good controls.
• Razer Blackshark V2 ($79 at Amazon): Razer’s revamp of the BlackShark line was one of the best gaming headsets of 2020, though its microphone leaves a little to be desired. It’s super comfortable, it sounds great, with fantastic isolation and a lightweight enough build for long gaming sessions, though it does feel a little flimsy. There’s also a wireless version with an improved microphone, though it’s considerably more expensive.
• SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro ($196.99 at Amazon): This wired gaming headset includes its own GameDAC where you can create a custom 10-band EQ setting or choose from some presets. The sound quality and comfort are very good, but you may shy away because of its price.
• Turtle Beach Recon 500 ($79 at Amazon): Turtle Beach has put out some of the most reliable cheap gaming headsets on the market for years, and the company’s newest 3.5mm offering strikes a great balance between price and premium build. There aren’t any notable bells and whistles, but given pretty much every platform offers its own built-in virtual surround sound, you don’t need much to have a good time.

What you should know about gaming headsets

When it comes to buying a gaming headset, there are plenty of things to take into account, like price, design, sound, microphone quality, portability, and more. If you already know that you’re looking for niche produce (e.g., something for mobile gaming), then you can get even more specific with our lists of the best Steam Deck gaming headsets and best Nintendo Switch gaming headsets. Multi-platform gamers or those who want to be able to use their headsets beyond gaming should consider the following.

Do gaming headsets sound different from headphones?

Gaming headsets don’t have to sound different from headphones, but many gaming headset frequency responses crank up the bass to make boomy sounds, well, boomier. That can be a good thing for immersion, but too much bass can actually detract from the experience and hinder your performance. Ideally, you want to have a slight bass bump that makes explosions stand out without making it hard to hear other in-game sounds like nearby enemy footsteps or the “twinkle” sound of a proximate treasure. A gaming headset with a versatile frequency response will more closely align with our target curve (the pink line in our charts).

Why should your Steam Deck gaming headset block out noise?

Mobile gamers who use a Switch, Steam Deck, or mobile phone for most of their gaming will want to look out for a headset with good isolation performance. When a set of headphones can passively block out noise, you’ll be more able to hear in-game sounds over real-world noises—ideal for those of us who game on our train commutes.

Good isolation requires a good fit, particularly with how the ear pads cover space around your ear. You don’t want any gaps between the pads and your skull, or else you risk auditor masking. It can be hard to get a good fit if you wear glasses. If you are a bespectacled gamer, we recommend paying a bit extra for good velour pads.

How do you connect a gaming headset?

Not every headset is created equal when it comes to connectivity. For better or worse, some gaming headsets offer limited compatibility or are completely incompatible with certain consoles altogether. Don’t worry, we have you covered. If compatibility is of utmost importance, you may want to stick to wired 3.5mm options or wireless gaming headsets that use USB-C dongles.

Do certain platforms only support certain features?

Features are still an important consideration, but these days, they’ve moved to the back burner a bit. Gaming platforms (including Windows) all have their own onboard solutions for things like spatial audio, so there’s not a whole to buying headset because it comes with that feature preloaded. For instance, as long as you can plug a headset into your PlayStation 5, it will work with the 3D audio feature. For features like EQ customization, you’ll still need something that uses a companion app, though.

Why you should trust SoundGuys on the best gaming headsets

The team at SoundGuys is deeply invested in helping you find the best audio products for your needs and budget. We want to share our passion with our readers and minimize the legwork you need to put in. Whether we’re interviewing experts on hearing loss or submerging waterproof speakers, we do what it takes to get to the truth of the matter. Our team has years of experience reviewing products, conducting lab tests, working in studios, and in the field of journalism.

FAQs