15 Best Gaming Headsets & Headphones

Enjoy your games with one of the best gaming headsets available right now.

Comparison of Best Gaming Headphones

		Rating	Price	Compatibility	Connection	Back design	Noise-cancelling mic	Surround Sound
HyperX Cloud Revolver S best overall		4.3 More info	under $150	PC PS4 Xbox One	Wired 3.5mm	Closed-back
Razer BlackShark V2 runner-up		4.5 More info	under $100	PC PS4 Xbox One	Wired 3.5mm	Closed-back
SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless best wireless		4.4 More info	under $150	PC & Mac PS4 Xbox 360 Xbox One	Wireless Bluetooth (USB adapter)	Closed-back
LucidSound LS41 Wireless best for consoles		4.0 More info	under $170	PS4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch	Wireless Bluetooth (20 hours)	Closed-back
SteelSeries Arctis PRO Wireless premium wireless		4.2 More info	under $330	PC, PS4	Wireless Bluetooth (20 hours)	Closed-back
HyperX Cloud Alpha		4.3 More info	under $80	PC & Mac PS4 Xbox One	Wired 3.5mm, USB	Closed-back
Logitech G935 most customizable		4.3 More info	under $100	PC PS4 Xbox One	Wireless Bluetooth (16 hours)	Closed-back
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X best open-back		4.3 More info	under $100	PC & Mac PS4 Xbox One	Wired 3.5mm	Open-back
Beyerdynamic MMX 300 (2. Gen) best premium		4.3 More info	under $280	PC & Mac, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, mobile phones	Wired 3.5mm	Closed-back
HyperX Cloud II best under $100		4.5 More info	under $100	PC & Mac PS4 Xbox One	Wired 3.5mm	Closed-back
SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless best wireless under $100		4.4 More info	under $100	PC PS4	Wireless Bluetooth (USB-C) (24+ hours)	Closed-back
HyperX Cloud Flight best battery		4.3 More info	under $100	PC PS4 PS4 Pro	Wireless Bluetooth (USB adapter)	Closed-back
Audio-Technica ATH-G1WL best microphone		4.1 More info	under $250	PC	Wireless Bluetooth (USB adapter)	Closed-back
HyperX Stinger best under $40		4.2 More info	under $30	PS4, PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, tablet or mobile device	Wired 3.5mm	Closed-back
Onikuma K6 best dirt-cheap		4.4 More info	under $30	PC & Mac PS4 Xbox One	Wired 3.5mm	Closed-back

What are the best gaming headphones today?

You want a comfortable fit, durable design, and clear microphone and sound quality, so you can focus on the game and not worry about the real-world problems.

You know there are many “best” headsets that are supposed to be great but fall short with mediocre audio quality, bad microphone, and weak durability.

You want your next gaming headset to last a long time to get the best value for money.

To do that, check this list of the best gaming headsets to upgrade your game experience.

You can get a good gaming headset even with a small budget (check further below for cheaper models).

Related:

The best wireless gaming headsets

The best PC gaming headsets

Best wireless PS4 headsets

Best wireless Xbox gaming headsets

Best gaming earbuds

Best Gaming Headsets

1. HyperX Cloud Revolver S – best overall

Upgrading on the Revolver’s overall design, the S model still represents fantastic value for gamers, especially if you like surround experience.

Compatibility: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch
Back design: Closed-back
Surround audio: Dolby virtual surround (PC only)
Connection: Wired

Why Buy These?

Build quality is excellent, with a steel frame and earcups with a rubberized finish. Earpads and headband are decently cushy, but because headphones weight very little, overall comfort is great for everyday use.

While the microphone is detachable, the cable for audio connection is not. Thankfully, it’s braided, which makes it more durable. Going back to the mic, it picks up your voice nice and clean, with good background noise suppression.

There is a USB sound card where you can control volume, mute the mic, or change between 3 EQ presets. You can also enable Dolby surround from there, and it works amazingly.

The Bad

The steel frame might start vibrating, which is audible during wear.

The Sound

Very clean across the board, with no weird spikes that would ruin the immersion. Dolby support only amplifies the enjoyment, changing your games for the better.

For $150, there are many things to like here. You’re getting everything that a gamer wants from their gaming headset: immersive sound, all-day comfort, and a good mic.

2. Razer BlackShark V2 – runner-up

Razer.com

Razer’s new product might shuffle some cards in the under $100 price range, with feature-rich software, balanced audio, and comfortable fit.

Compatibility: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch
Back design: Closed-back
Surround audio: THX virtual surround (PC only)
Connection: Wired

Why Buy These?

BlackShark V2 are following a similar design language as their predecessor, with a more retro, aviation look. Only that now you’re getting much more padding all the way around for maximum comfort.

Earpads are covered in a unique fabric that ensures breathability while keeping above-average noise isolation. Housing is also very lightweight, despite its size.

The microphone on V2 is detachable and comes with a wide array of software options to ensure its clarity. 3.5mm jack connects to the Razer’s USB sound card, but if you want cleaner microphone output, plug the headphones directly into the computer.

The Bad

The mechanism for extending earcups looks fragile.

The Sound

Despite the Razer’s reputation of creating mostly boomy headphones with an overall harsh sound, the V2’s delivers quite the opposite. You’re getting a nicely balanced frequency response, with a decently big soundstage that can get bigger with THX virtual surround.

While there is a lot of competition at the $100 mark, BlackShark V2 are indeed something else. They sound great, are super comfortable, and come with a useful desktop app.

3. SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless – best wireless

SteelSeries Arctis 7 are the top wireless headset for gaming.

Compatibility: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch
Back design: Closed-back
Surround audio: DTS Headphones: X 2.0 (PC only)
Connection: Wireless (USB adapter)

Why Buy These?

If a wireless headset is what you want, then the SteelSeries Arctis 7 is the most versatile option today.

The understated design is well-built and will last a long time. Large ear cups are greatly padded. Thus the comfort is really high (comfy even after long hours).

If you wear glasses, it’s not a problem either. Plus, you can easily change the volume with the button built-in.

The noise-canceling microphone is clear and distortion-free. You can use it in louder places and teammates will hear you clearly.

The battery lasts up to 24 hours per charge which is more than you can probably handle.

The Bad

The headband frame isn’t adjustable. That’s why these headphones might feel tight for some people.

The Sound

It sounds just amazing (for a gaming headset). Bass is deep, highs are excellent. That’s why it’s quite versatile and can be used for different games.

Plus you get simulated surround (DTS Headphone: X v2) on PC.

SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless is above-average in durability, battery life, and sound quality. If you’re a passionate gamer that appreciates all of that, then you should definitely try it.

4. LucidSound LS41 Wireless – best for consoles

Best gaming headset for consoles.

If you are a console gamer, the LucidSound LS41 is one of the best gaming headsets for PS4 and Xbox One.

Compatibility: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch
Connection: Wireless Bluetooth (optical) & wired, 3.5mm
Driver size: 50mm
Battery life: 20 hours

Why Buy These?

These headphones are immersive and great for long playing sessions. They offer 7.1 Surround sound, which is great for immersive and competitive games. Feel like you’re really in the game.

The comfy earpads are gel-cooled, so you can stay comfortable even after wearing them for a long time.

They also have powerful drivers and plenty of volume, with capable battery. You can enjoy 20+ hours of playing time without charging. That’s plenty even for hardcore gamers.

Unlike many of the headphones out there, it can be used with a cable or wireless and is compatible with most consoles, including Xbox One and Nintendo Switch.

The Bad

These are quite heavy and bulky. It’s not the most portable gaming headset.

The Sound

The brilliant immersive 7.1 audio is great for getting stuck into your favorite games. 50mm drivers provide plenty of power, too.

The LucidSound LS41 are the top choice for anyone owning a console.

Related:

• Check the best wireless gaming headsets for Xbox
• Top wireless gaming headset for PlayStation

5. SteelSeries Arctis PRO Wireless – premium wireless

The best high-end headsets for gaming.

SteelSeries Arctis Pro high-end wireless headphones have lossless audio with ultra-low latency and DTS Headphone:X v2.0.

Compatibility: PC, PS4
Connection: Wireless Bluetooth
Driver size: 40mm
Battery life: 20 hours

Why Buy These?

If you are a PS4, Xbox One, or PC gamer, this gaming headset is a fantastic choice. The SteelSeries Arctis PRO Wireless gives you high-end features for a demanding gamer.

The quality 40mm drivers provide plenty of power. There is ultra-low latency functionality from the brilliant wireless 2.4G function.

It has 20 hours of battery, and it even comes with two batteries. While one is used, the other can be in the charger dock.

It also comes with an onboard equalizer and OLED menu. You can choose the volume of voice chat and sound effects, to get the ideal audio quality for you. Also, the Arctis Pro include a ClearCast microphone for clear communicating, but not RGB lighting.

The Bad

Some people find the steel frame puts pressure on your head after longer use.

The Sound

It’s high-fidelity. With the quality transmission and drivers, you can use the headset for games, movies, and music. The EQ settings make it possible to adjust the frequency response to your liking.

If you want long battery life and high-fidelity lossless audio, and budget isn’t a limitation, the SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless is the top option.

6. HyperX Cloud Alpha

HyperX Cloud Alpha is the best gaming headset for most gamers. Wired and reliable.

Back design: Closed-back
Surround audio: No
Connection: Wired (3.5mm)

Why Buy These?

If you’re searching for an above-average gaming headset for PC and other platforms with excellent sound quality and durable design, then this should be your first choice.

Their design looks simple yet cool. The closed-back headphones are well built with 50mm drivers. They’re an update from the remarkable Cloud I & II models.

Metal headband, sturdy plastics, and braided cable are the reasons why they last for a long time. Because of well-padded ear cups, they are extremely comfy too. They also don’t put much pressure on your head, perfect for long playing sessions.

There’s an in-line that controls the volume and mic. Also, their detachable microphone is one of the best. Recorded speech is crystal clear and detailed without distortion.

The Bad

The bass they produce can be inconvenient to people wearing glasses because it makes them vibrate.

The Sound

The quality is impressive. They produce deep bass and clear mids. That’s why this pair of headphones is suitable for all types of video games, as well as movies and music.

HyperX Cloud Alpha headset is the new go-to product for any semi-serious gamer. Marvelous audio, high durability, and comfort will surely convince you to like them.

7. Logitech G935 – most customizable

Great wireless pick for those who don’t have enough keys on their keyboards.

Back design: Closed-back
Surround audio: DTS Headphone: X 2.0
Connection: Wireless (USB adapter)

Why Buy These?

The plastic exterior might seem a bit cheap, but it feels good in the hand, with metal inside the headband to give it sturdiness. While these headsets on a larger side, their weight is actually relatively low. All of that paired with pillowy pleather pads, and you got yourself a comfort beast.

G935 headsets are unique because of their extra hot-keys on the back of the left earcup. If you need additional macros for quick access, these headphones got you covered. Not only that, but you can also tweak the RGB lightning to look cooler.

All those flashy lights come at the cost of the battery life, which stays at 12 hours. You can get around 16 hours if you turn the RGB off.

The Bad

This kind of “gamery” design is getting old.

The Sound

The bass is a bit emphasized, but it doesn’t cloud the rest of the sound. They’re overall smooth, with a slightly darker treble. To expand on immersion, you can enable the DTS Headphone: X 2.0 surround sound.

Logitech G935 are well-rounded gaming headsets, with extra hot-keys for impressive in-game combos.

8. Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X – best open-back

Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X are the best gaming headphones for PUBG (Fortnite, CS…) bar none.

Back design: Open-back
Driver size: 53mm
Connection: Wired (3.5mm)

Why Buy These?

If you want the maximum advantage in destroying your enemies you need these headphones. No gaming headset comes close to the sound quality and accuracy in games. Their open design also amplifies the soundstage.

While the build quality is not that impressive, the comfort is very good. These will feel like the most comfortable headphones on the planet. They come with small flaps that rest gently on your head.

The Bad

Because of the open-back design, there is substantial noise leakage.

Bass is lacking in quantity.

Without any microphone, you need to get a mod mic if you want to chat with friends.

Sound

These have a monster soundstage. When you put them on you, feel like you have a concert hall on your head.

Imaging is superb, coming very handy when you want to pinpoint the footsteps in a competitive first-person shooter.

The level of detail is amazing and something you don’t usually see in $100 headphones and definitely not in any gaming headsets. If you think you have a good headset, try these, and you’ll hear the difference.

In the end, if you want the absolute advantage in FPSs like CS: GO, get Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X with monster soundstage, accuracy and detail-rich sound quality.

9. Beyerdynamic MMX 300 (2. Gen) – best premium

These German-made gaming headphones might be the last headsets that you will ever need.

Back design: Closed-back
Surround audio: No
Noise-cancelling mic: Yes
Connection: Wired

Why Buy These?

These are built like a tank, with high-quality material all over the place. For almost $300, you can expect durable metal construction with enough padding so that you don’t feel the excess weight.

Speaking of padding, earpads are dressed in velour, which might lower the passive noise isolation but increases overall comfort and breathability. Nobody wants to game with sweaty ears.

While the microphone and inline controls are permanently attached, they’re of excellent quality and are fun to use.

The Bad

The bright sound might not be for everyone.

The Sound

MMX 300 Gen 2. are proving that you don’t need virtual or real surround sound to achieve great in-game immersion. These headsets are pushing tons of details with a frequency response that works great for games, music, or watching movies. Imaging is razor-sharp, which gives you an unfair advantage over your opponents.

They’re are a bit expensive for a casual gamer, but if you need a swiss army knife of headphones that can do it all, these might be it. An excellent sound that works for everything.

10. HyperX Cloud II – best under $100

These gaming headsets remain comfortable even during prolonged gaming sessions that last long into the night.

Back design: Closed-back
Surround audio: 7.1 virtual surround
Noise-cancelling mic: Yes
Connection: Wired

Why Buy These?

First of all, their build quality is excellent for under $100. Headsets are proudly showing their aluminum frame that comes in a variety of catchy colors. For extra durability, the cable is braided in fabric.

To achieve the ultimate comfort, they’re incredibly lightweight, with memory foam padding inside the earpads. With the addition of a plush headband, you can game in these for many hours without experiencing fatigue.

With an included USB sound card, you can control the volume of the audio and microphone (which is detachable) and activate 7.1 surround audio mode.

The Bad

The cable could be removable.

The Sound

As with many gaming headsets, Cloud II also cranks up the bass and treble. The first one helps amplify the effects, while the other brings out the details. If you find the soundstage a bit too intimate, it gets slightly bigger by enabling the 7.1 virtual surround.

HyperX headphones have always been the favorites among gamers. With all that they can offer, it’s no surprise that Cloud II’s are still the best gaming options for under $100.

11. SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless – best wireless under $100

Top wireless choice for gaming under $100.

The SteelSeries Arctis 1 has a lot of features of elite headsets but at a very reasonable price point.

Compatibility: PS4, PC
Connection: Wireless Bluetooth (USB-C adapter)
Driver size: 40mm
Battery life: 24+ hours

Why Buy These?

The SteelSeries Arctis 1 is the little sibling of the Arctis PRO. They have the same drivers as the excellent, award-winning Arctis 7. Considering the price, this is a big bonus.

You also get a ClearCast microphone for distortion-free communication with friends or in-game.

The steel-reinforced headband is very durable and flexible. You can use it on the go and put it in your bag without worrying.

The Bad

Though the headband is durable, this isn’t the comfiest model. They could do with a bit more padding, and the plastic feels a little cheaper.

The Sound

Finding audio clarity like this under $100 is rare. These headphones have high fidelity and lossless wireless capabilities.

Though these are much cheaper than other SteelSeries Arctis models, they are a reasonable downgrade. You will be impressed by the level of clarity and quality at the price point.

The SteelSeries Arctis 1 offers great value for money if you’re looking for a wireless gaming headset.

Check other top wireless headsets

12. HyperX Cloud Flight – best battery

HyperX Cloud Flight are the wireless gaming headset with the best battery life.

Click here for the full HyperX Cloud Flight review.

Back design: Closed-back
Surround audio: No
Noise-cancelling mic: No
Connection: Wireless (USB dongle)

Why Buy These?

If a long battery is important to you (don’t want to constantly charge), then check this one out.

The headband fits onto your head with just the right amount of tightness. Well-padded leatherette earcups come handy if you’re into long playing sessions. Their comfort is quite good. They isolate a lot of noise because of the tight fit.

Battery capacity is amazing. Up to 30 hours of playing time is among the top of the class. The built-in buttons are easy-to-use. You can easily change the volume, and mute/unmute the boom mic.

The Bad

There is a quiet, yet audible buzzing noise present when you turn them on. Some people find that annoying. Once you turn up the volume to medium, it thankfully disappears. LED lights (not RGB lighting, only red) need to be turned off every time for the best battery.

The Sound

Their overall frequency response is V-shaped. The punchy bass and enhanced treble are enjoyable for games and movies. But there’s no surround audio, which is disappointing at this price range.

If you’re looking for a durable, comfortable headset with incredible battery performance, then HyperX Cloud Flight is an excellent choice for you. Read full review.

13. Audio-Technica ATH-G1WL – best microphone

Familiar ATH-M50x look, but with more robust construction and a super clean microphone for chatting with your teammates.

Back design: Closed-back
Surround audio: 7.1
Noise-cancelling mic: No
Connection: Wireless (USB dongle)

Why Buy These?

ATH-G1WL came with a similar ATH-M50x earcup design but upgrading on headband sturdiness. The metal headband is exposed, which gives the product a more industrial look. Both the band and earpads are nicely padded, with a hybrid mixture of velour and pleather to provide you with the best of both worlds.

These gaming headsets come with a USB dongle for wireless 2.4 GHz connection. They can last your around 15 hours per charge.

The detachable mic is amazing, making your voice sound very natural and full. They might catch a bit of background noise compared to the competition.

The Bad

Battery life is a bit low, and you need to use micro-USB to charge them.

The Sound

As with M50x, these are also boosted in the bass, but it compliments well for in-game special effects. Treble is also sparkly and detailed, providing a distinctive V-shaped frequency response.

Not many gaming headsets are great for both games and music. However, Audio-Technica ATH-G1WL are different, making your content always sound exciting.

14. HyperX Stinger – best under $30

This is a solid HyperX headset under $30.

Click here for the HyperX Cloud Stinger review.

If you have little money to spend, under $30, HyperX Stinger is one of the best gaming headsets considering value-for-money.

Compatibility: PS4, PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, tablet, or mobile device
Connection: Wired 3.5mm
Noise-cancelling mic: Yes
Driver size: 50mm

Why Buy These?

The earphones are slightly smaller than with HyperX Cloud or Revolver models but still big enough to comfortably fit adult ears. They are very comfortable headphones, and you quickly forget you’re wearing a budget model.

The boom microphone is not detachable, but you can move it in a vertical position when not needed. Its sound quality is good, and other players will think you have a high-end gaming headset.

The HyperX Stinger doesn’t have any buttons, but it mutes the microphone when you put it in the vertical position (flip-up).

The Bad

They are “plasticky” compared to other HyperX headsets. Materials are likely to deteriorate sooner.

Sound

The quality is pretty good as well. To be frank, it’s not as good as with top models but can easily compare to mid-tier and lower headphones.

They have slightly emphasized bass, decent mids for a budget gaming headset, and good highs. Overall, if you are just an average user, you’ll be pleased with the audio.

If you’re looking for a gaming headset with good comfort, good durability, and sound quality that doesn’t disappoint all for a budget price of under $40, HyperX Stinger is your best choice.

15. Onikuma K6 – best dirt-cheap

Onikuma K6 is the best dirt-cheap gaming headset under $30 (also known as Onikuma II).

Click here for the full Onikuma K6 review.

Back design: Closed-back
Surround audio: No
Noise-cancelling mic: No
Connection: Wired (3.5mm)

Why Buy These?

In case you don’t want to spend more than $30 for a gaming headset then the Onikuma K6 is your best choice.

Fantastic value for your money. For less than 30 dollars you get a big comfy headset with a sturdy design and reliable performance.

The earpads are thicker than with many premium headsets offering plenty of comfort. You can put the boom microphone in a position that best suits you to avoid distortion. And, most importantly, it works as intended.

Also, you can adjust the volume and control the boom mic with the in-line remote control and mute button. You can connect them to any 3.5mm platform (PC, Mac, PS4, Xbox)

The Bad

The big in-line remote control feels a bit clumsy. Build materials feel cheaper in hands. The USB cable is only for lights.

The Sound

It’s surprisingly good. Nothing special but considering you pay a dirt-cheap price for it, it’s good enough.

Balanced frequency response is perfect for all types of games as well as movies, music, and internet surfing.

Onikuma K6 (II) are the best “bang for little bucks”. They’re a popular budget headset because they offer all the basics in a reliable and comfortable way.

Best Regular Headphones for Gaming and Music

Don’t want a dedicated gaming headset? Don’t worry. You can get great regular headphones and add a microphone. Famous streamer Ninja has Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO with standalone microphone (his Twitch). And it works great.

How to Create Your Own Gaming Headset?

Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO combined with ModMic Wireless

1. Get a pair of headphones
2. Buy a microphone mod
3. Combine and get the best of both worlds: superb audio and voice quality

See the best microphone add-ons here.

How we do reviews?

Are Gaming Headphones Good for Music?

Gaming headphones are generally okay for music for most people. But because they’re tuned for playing games first, they don’t sound as good as the best regular headphones.

The driver size isn’t a problem as most headsets come with 50mm drivers. The reason why you can get better headphones for music compared to your fancy gaming headset is the special tunning manufacturers do to make them more appealing to gamers.

A lot of them come with emphasized bass, to make explosions more dramatic. But, this might not be the best thing when you want to listen to Mozart.

Also, surround simulation improves the soundstage in a game but debatable for music.

What is the Difference Between Gaming Headphones and Regular Headphones?

Any gaming headphones come with a boom microphone, thus creating a headset. They’re also built for long hours of playing comfortably, and often come with virtual surround sound, LED lights, and other related features.

A headset for playing games needs to be comfortable

So, most have big over-ear earcups with plenty of cushioning to offer maximum comfort.

Game-playing marathons are common nowadays, and many people play for hours on end. Many times you probably meant to play for 1-2 hours and end up playing 3-4 hours, in a row.

For this, you need a pair of headphones that won’t irritate your ears.

Some people use earbuds for gaming, but most aren’t that good and there aren’t many to choose from. Click here for options.

Sleek design with a sturdy structure

Since the best gaming headsets aren’t cheap and are frequently used, durability plays a part.

You want to spend your hard-earned money on solid, quality built headphones that will stand the test of time.

Many gaming headsets come with virtual 7.1 surround sound

While the audio quality usually isn’t at the forefront for gaming headphones, having surround sound is a nice advantage.

Closed headphones have a rather intimate soundstage, and with the help of software, you can expand it.

The soundstage is the ability of headphones to produce “spacious” sound, the illusion that the sounds are coming from different directions and not from the center of your head.

Types of Gaming Headphones

• Wired with 3.5mm or USB connection are most common.
• Wireless with unique radio frequency connection, (not Bluetooth), are becoming more popular and offer the most versatility.
• Multi-platform compatible you can connect to many different platforms including PC, Mac, PlayStation4 and Xbox One.
• Single platform compatible sets are dedicated to one, usually a specific console, and offer limited features with other systems.

Make sure your gaming headset is compatible with your platform.

Do the Types of Headphones Differ Between Gaming Systems?

Usually, the headphones are precisely the same. The only difference is how they connect.

Due to business reasons, some manufacturers create different versions of the same gaming headset.

For example, a headset specifically made for Xbox that connects to the console wirelessly without any adapters.

Otherwise, they use the same drivers and structure but with different compatibility.

What types of gaming headphones are the most expensive?

Wireless gaming headsets usually cost more money and are commonly packed with extra features like simulated surround sound, customizing software, and more.

You also pay more for specific brands that are considered premium. Stay in your budget and pick the best that you can afford.

What is the cheapest type of gaming headset?

The cheapest type will always be wired and without fancy surround sound or other software.

Thankfully, a good pair of drivers and a quality mic is often enough to have an enjoyable experience.

You don’t have to spend a ton of money for basic functionality. Avoid fancy brands and software, and you can get a lot for little money.

What to Look for in Gaming Headphones

Compatibility

Know what gaming systems you have before getting your headphones.

Get 1 gaming headset that is compatible with all your home devices.

3.5mm support is standard and is supported by all platforms (PC, Mac, PS4, and Xbox). But it doesn’t support virtual surround sound without software.

USB support is common for PCs, Macs, and some consoles but make sure you check first (might not work on older versions).

Wireless gaming headsets usually come with an adapter or core station that you connect with a cable.

Comfort

Look for big, plush earpads and over-ear design (memory foam is a plus). Adjustable headband and swiveling cups are a nice bonus.

The best thing to do is to try them first, but checking online reviews is a good idea too.

Reliable Microphone

Mic problems are the most annoying when you want to play with friends. Thankfully they are less common as in the past, though we all know guys who agitate others in public games.

Getting a headset from a reputable brand and with good microphone reviews is a smart idea.

Extra Features

Maybe you want surround sound or a detachable mic. Perhaps you fancy customizing the audio quality and RGB lighting.

Is Surround Sound a Marketing Trick or The Real Deal?

Many companies market their best gaming headsets as having 7.1 surround, but headphones can’t really produce true surround sound.

The casing is too small. Instead, it’s only simulated with software and often creates a mediocre experience for a higher asking price.

Physically you always get a stereo setup, one driver per ear.

Virtual surround sound (or any 3D audio software) comes into play for PC gaming as consoles don’t have support for it (exception is MixAmp Pro with surround built-in).

Nonetheless, there’s a small increase in soundstage when the software does its magic which slightly improves your audio experience.

Are Wired Headphones Better Than Wireless for Gaming?

Here’s a quick rundown:

• The slightly better sound quality in wired gaming headsets is the biggest benefit. Wireless models aren’t far behind but can come with white noise, static, etc.
• When it comes to convenience, wireless wins. Grab a snack, go to the toilet, and chat on Discord, easy. But you also have to charge them. If you don’t, you might have a problem.
• Wireless headsets usually cost more, the wired ones are more affordable. Wired start from $30 to $300+, wireless start from $80+.

Click here to check the top wireless gaming headsets.