AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
Gaming is a personal experience, so whether you’re a casual gamer or a seasoned pro, the way that you game is unique to you. Do you want a wired or wireless headset? Which headset works best for each video game console? All of this will affect how you experience your games as well as how you play them, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best gaming headsets for every style of play.
What to consider when buying gaming headsets
“There are several things you should think about before buying a game headset,” advises TechRT co-founder and professional tech blogger Rajesh Namase. When shopping for a gaming headset, he suggests that the best option is going to be one that meets the needs of your gaming experience and fits your personal budget. First, determine the reason why you need the headset. Is it for streaming? Professional gaming? Casual sessions? Once you determine how you’ll use your gaming headset, you’ll be able to select the best one that’ll work for your gaming situation.
Sound quality
“High-quality sound is the most important factor,” says Paul Santoro, vice president of Gaming and esports at Heroic Game Day. “You're looking for a good frequency response and a nice, clear sound. Surround sound options are a major player for esports and immersion.” Getting the best noise-canceling microphone you can afford will help, too. “A noise-canceling microphone is the industry standard for esports players and people who want no background noise coming through,” he says. In terms of wired or wireless headsets, “Wired has better quality and latency but wireless gives more freedom for moving around,” advises Santoro.
Comfort
Just as with trying to determine the best gaming monitor, the best gaming mice or especially the best gaming chair for your needs, picking a headset that feels good is key. “Gamers wear headsets for long durations. Comfort is essential to a buyer's preference,” says Santoro. He and Namase both recommend reaching for headphones that are comfortable to wear for hours, lightweight and still durable.
Compatibility
“Most headsets in 2024 are universal,” says Santoro. “But always check if the headset you aspire to buy does work and supports all the features of the console you want to play it on. A PlayStation-specific headset might not work on Xbox, but will work on PC.”
Our top picks for the best gaming headsets
Best budget gaming headset: VersionTECH. G2000 Gaming Headset
Best budget gaming headset
VersionTECH. G2000 Gaming Headset
This gaming headset offers several high-end features for less than $40. The wired headset includes a noise-canceling mic, surround sound, a durable wire and several ergonomic details for comfort. It’s compatible with nearly all popular gaming platforms, including the best gaming laptops.
Specifications:
- Connection: Wired 3.5 mm jack.
- Features: Swivel-to-mute noise-canceling mic, adjustable headband, ergonomic design, durable braided wire, external audio in-line control, 3D surround sound, LED lights on earcups.
- Drivers: 50 mm.
- Frequency response: 20Hz-20 kHz.
- Battery: Not listed.
- Compatibility: Universal platform compatibility — PS5, PS4, PS4 Pro/Slim, Xbox One, Xbox One S/X controller, Xbox Series S/X, PC, Nintendo Switch/3DS, laptop, computer, tablet, iPad, mobile.
- Warranty: Eligible for a 30-day return from Amazon. May also be an additional warranty included in the package instructions.
- Price on publish: $43.58.
What we like:
- Noise-canceling swivel microphone.
- 3D surround sound.
- Universal compatibility with all major gaming platforms.
- 50 mm drivers.
- Durable braided wire for continuous sound.
What we don’t like:
- Doesn’t fit all head sizes.
- Unknown warranty outside of retailer’s warranty.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
For under $40, the VersionTECH. G2000 Gaming Headset offers a well-rounded experience for most gamers.
Get it here: VersionTECH. G2000 Gaming Headset
Best value gaming headset: SteelSeries Arctis 5
Best value gaming headset
SteelSeries Arctis 5 - RGB Illuminated Gaming Headset with DTS Headphone: X v2.0 Surround - for PC and PlayStation 4 - Black
“There is a great balance between speed and price in the SteelSeries Arctis 5,” says Namase. “The sleek design, great sound quality and useful features like RGB lighting and adjustable EQ settings make it a great deal for the mid-range price.”
Specifications:
- Connection: Wired USB or 4-Pole 3.5mm via included adapter.
- Features: High-quality attached mic, inline USB chat mix dial, surround sound, padded ear cushions, durable steel headband, illuminated earcups.
- Drivers: 40 mm.
- Frequency response: 20Hz-22kHz.
- Battery: Not listed.
- Compatibility: PC, Mac, PlayStation 4, Xbox, Switch, mobile.
- Warranty: 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Price on publish: $179.99.
What we like:
- Retractable microphone.
- 10-foot wired cable.
- Includes adapter for a wider range of compatibility.
- Durable steel headband.
- Ergonomic design.
What we don’t like:
- Limited compatibility.
- Unknown warranty outside of retailer’s warranty.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The SteelSeries Arctis 5 gaming headset provides an efficient gaming experience for a casual gamer with a comfortable ergonomic feel. However, even with the included adapter, it’s not universally compatible.
Get it here: SteelSeries Arctis 5
Best wireless gaming headset: Logitech G Pro X Wireless
Best wireless gaming headset
Logitech - G PRO X Wireless Gaming Headset for PC - Black
“The Logitech G Pro X Wireless stands out because of its fast wireless connection, great sound and comfortable shape,” says Namase. “Its strong features and long battery life make it a great choice for gamers who want to be free to play wirelessly without giving up performance.”
Specifications:
- Connection: Wireless 2.4 GHz LIGHTSPEED.
- Features: Soft memory foam earpads, surround sound, 13-meter connectivity range, detachable noise-reduction mic, noise control.
- Drivers: 50 mm.
- Frequency response: 20kHz.
- Battery: 20 hours.
- Compatibility: PS5, PS4, PC with USB port and Windows 7 or later.
- Warranty: Two-year limited hardware warranty.
- Price on publish: $129.99.
What we like:
- It comes with a two-year limited warranty.
- Comfortable ergonomic fit.
- 20 hours of battery life.
- High-quality mic.
What we don’t like:
- Limited compatibility.
- It’s got noise reduction, but it’s not noise-proof.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Logitech G Pro X Wireless gaming headset offers a long-lasting battery and a 13-meter connectivity range, assuming you have a compatible console, for optimal wireless gaming.
Get it here: Logitech G Pro X Wireless
Best gaming headset for PS5: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro for PlayStation
Best gaming headset for PS5:
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro for PlayStation – Wireless Console esports Headset - White - NASA + AP Packaging
Designed specifically for PlayStation consoles, the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro boasts advanced passive noise isolation, a comfortable ergonomic design and a fast wireless connection. It also features breathable memory foam ear cushions and up to 70 hours of battery life.
Specifications:
- Connection: Wireless via USB Type C HyperSpeed wireless dongle or Bluetooth 5.2.
- Features: Oval ear cushions, advanced passive noise isolation, detachable mic, ergonomic design.
- Drivers: 50 mm.
- Frequency response: 12Hz-28kHz.
- Battery: 70 hours.
- Compatibility: PS5, PC, Mac, smartphones, tablets and handheld gaming devices with Bluetooth audio capability or a USB-C port.
- Warranty: Two-year limited warranty.
- Price on publish: $199.99.
What we like:
- Multi-day battery life.
- Designed for esports.
- Lightweight frame.
- Cushioned earcups.
What we don’t like:
- Limited compatibility.
- No active noise canceling.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Razer’s BlackShark V2 Pro is a wireless gaming headset with esports-quality features, designed specifically for Playstation fans.
Get it here: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro for PlayStation
Best gaming headset for Xbox: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro for Xbox
Best gaming headset for Xbox
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (Xbox Licensed) - Wireless Console Esports Headset - Black - NASA Packaging
Don’t feel left out, Xbox-lovers! We’ve also gone with the BlackShark V2 Pro’s Xbox-specific model for this category. Designed for esports athletes who use the Xbox as their console of choice, its comfortable feel, powerful drivers and multi-day battery life make it a must for Xbox players.
Specifications:
- Connection: Wireless via USB Type C HyperSpeed wireless dongle or Bluetooth 5.2.
- Features: Oval ear cushions, advanced passive noise isolation, detachable mic, ergonomic design,
- Drivers: 50 mm.
- Frequency response: 12Hz-28kHz.
- Battery: 70 hours.
- Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One X, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, PC, Mac, smartphones, tablets and handheld gaming devices with Bluetooth audio capability or a USB-C port.
- Warranty: Two-year limited warranty.
- Price on publish: $199.99.
What we like:
- Universal compatibility.
- Multi-day battery life.
- Designed for esports.
- Lightweight frame.
- Cushioned earcups.
What we don’t like:
- No active noise canceling.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro for Xbox is a wireless gaming headset with esports-quality features. But, while there is advanced passive noise isolation — which cancels out noise physically — there’s no active noise cancellation.
Get it here: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro for Xbox
Best gaming headset for PC: Logitech G ProX
Best gaming headset for PC
Best gaming headset for PC
Santoro recommends this gaming headset for gamers who prefer a PC, praising it for its “great sound, detachable mic and extensive PC customization software.” It’s a wired headset that’s ready for endless hours of gaming.
Specifications:
- Connection: Wired.
- Features: Soft memory foam earpads, surround sound, detachable noise-reduction mic, lightweight frame.
- Drivers: 50 mm.
- Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz.
- Battery: Not listed.
- Compatibility: PC with USB port and Windows 7 or later.
- Warranty: Two-year limited hardware warranty.
- Price on publish: $99.99.
What we like:
- It comes with a two-year limited warranty.
- Comfortable ergonomic fit.
- High-quality mic.
What we don’t like:
- Limited compatibility.
- Noise reduction but not noise-proof.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Logitech G ProX wired gaming headset features a crisp mic for hours of being able to game solo or with a team, while maintaining consistently clear communication.
Get it here: Logitech G ProX
Best gaming headset for Nintendo Switch: Astro Gaming A30 Wireless Gaming Headset
Best gaming headset for Nintendo Switch
Astro Gaming - A30 Wireless Gaming Headset for PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mobile - White
This gaming headset is the best to grab if you prefer using a Switch. The customizable headset features a removable mic, speaker tags that you can swap out, cushioned ear cups and connectivity for up to 50 feet. You also get a portable carrying case for your headset.
Specifications:
- Connection: Wired and wireless LIGHTSPEED 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth, 3.5 mm aux.
- Features: 50 feet of connectivity, a carrying case, detachable mic, ergonomic cushioning, customizable speaker tags.
- Drivers: 40 mm.
- Frequency response: 20Hz-22kHz.
- Battery: 27 hours.
- Compatibility: Playstation, Xbox, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PC, mobile, iOS, Android.
- Warranty: One-year manufacturer’s warranty.
- Price on publish: $229.99.
What we like:
- Universal compatibility.
- Detachable mic.
- Cushioned ear cups and frame.
- Customizable speaker tags.
- Comes with a carrying case.
What we don’t like:
- No active noise canceling.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Astro Gaming A30 Wireless Gaming Headset can be used wireless or wired but there’s no active noise canceling no matter which way you use it. At least there’s a carrying case for taking it and your Switch on the go!
Get it here: Astro Gaming A30 Wireless Gaming Headset
Best gaming headset with a microphone: SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1
Best gaming headset with a microphone
SteelSeries - Arctis Nova 1 Wired Gaming Headset for PC - Black
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 comes with a microphone that’s ready for action, with bidirectional AI-powered noise canceling already built into the ClearCast Gen 2 fully retractable boom mic. As for the headphone portion, it’s a lightweight model that delivers 360 spatial audio for an immersive experience.
Specifications:
- Connection: Wired 4-pole 3.5mm.
- Features: 360-degree spatial audio, ClearCast Gen 2 fully retractable boom mic, bidirectional AI-powered noise-canceling mic, memory foam ear cushions.
- Drivers: 40 mm.
- Frequency response: 20Hz-22kHz.
- Battery: Not listed.
- Compatibility: PC, Mac, PS4, PS5, Xbox, Switch, mobile, VR.
- Warranty: 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Price on publish: $59.99
What we like:
- Universally compatible.
- ClearCast Gen 2 fully retractable boom mic.
- Bidirectional noise canceling mic.
- 360 spatial audio.
- Lightweight frame.
What we don’t like:
- Short limited warranty.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 is a budget-friendly gaming headset with a high-quality mic. It boasts surround sound and noise-canceling features that immerse you in your favorite games.
Get it here: SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1
Best audiophile headset for gaming: Maxwell Wireless Gaming Headset
Best audiophile headset for gaming
Maxwell Wireless Gaming Headset
If you’re serious about your sound, then you want a headset that will deliver everything with crystal-clear precision. Equipped with 90 mm drivers and AI-powered noise filtering, Maxwell’s wireless gaming headset also supports customizable Dolby Atmos sound, meaning you’ll be able to focus on your game and everything going on within it.
Specifications:
- Connection: Wireless with Bluetooth Multipoint and wired with 3.5mm analog cable.
- Features: 90 mm planar magnetic drivers, detachable mic, adjustable suspension strap, cushioned ear cups, AI-powered noise filtering mic, high-resolution audio, comes with 3.5mm TRRS analog cable.
- Drivers: 90 mm.
- Frequency response: 10Hz-50kHz.
- Battery: 80 hours.
- Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, iOS, Android.
- Warranty: One-year warranty.
- Price on publish: $299.
What we like:
- Multi-day battery life.
- AI-powered, active noise-canceling mic.
- Can be used wired or wireless.
What we don’t like:
- You have to choose between a primarily PlayStation or Xbox model.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Maxwell Wireless Gaming Headset offers a premier listening and speaking audio experience, complete with the ability to project Dolby Atmos sound.
Get it here: Maxwell Wireless Gaming Headset
Best gaming headset for streaming: Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS XLR StreamSet
Best gaming headset for streaming
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with Bluetooth (Black)
This gaming headset has several useful qualities for streamers. The microphone can pick up your vocals and play your voice back to you within the headset, so you know how you sound to others. It also comes with two different sets of cushioned ear pads so that you can customize your comfort.
Specifications:
- Connection: Wired 3.5 mm input.
- Features: Cardioid condenser microphone, two distinct ear pad styles, flip-to-mute boom arm, you can hear your voice in the headset.
- Drivers: 45 mm.
- Frequency response: 15Hz-28kHz.
- Battery: Not listed.
- Compatibility: PCs and Macs.
- Warranty: One-year limited warranty.
- Price on publish: $199.
What we like:
- You can hear your voice in the headphones.
- Flip-to-mute mic.
- Customizable ear pad comfort.
What we don’t like:
- No active noise canceling.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS XLR StreamSet features an attached mic that boasts similar qualities to a stand-alone mic. Hearing your own voice is a must for streamers!
Get it here: Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS XLR StreamSet
Best-sounding gaming headset: Corsair VIRTUOSO RGB WIRELESS High-Fidelity Gaming Headset
Best-sounding gaming headset
Corsair VIRTUOSO RGB WIRELESS High-Fidelity Gaming Headset
This gaming headset delivers a customizable audio experience so that you can focus on playing your game instead of the sound quality. It uses CORSAIR iCUE, a software system that lets you enable pre-tuned audio profiles, customize equalizer settings and experience immersive 7.1 surround sound.
Specifications:
- Connection: Slipstream wireless technology.
- Features: Surround sound, customizable RGB lighting on each ear cup, CORSAIR iCUE and an internal accelerometer that automatically turns the headset on and off.
- Drivers: 50 mm.
- Frequency response: 20Hz-40kHz.
- Battery: 20 hours.
- Compatibility: PC, Mac, Playstation, mobile.
- Warranty: Two-year warranty.
- Price on publish: $159.99.
What we like:
- You can still listen to audio while the headset is charging.
- It offers immersive surround sound.
- It automatically knows when to turn on and off.
- Customizable audio profiles.
What we don’t like:
- Not compatible with Xbox.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
With its customizable listening experience and high-quality detachable mic, you’ll be able to create your own best-sounding experience.
Get it here: Corsair VIRTUOSO RGB WIRELESS High-Fidelity Gaming Headset
Best premium gaming headset: SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless
Best premium gaming headset
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless
According to Santoro, this is the headset for people who want the best of the best. “It has excellent sound, a comfortable-fitting headband and has an EQ built into the wire,” he says. Plus, its multi-platform USB-C dongle works with every major console on the market, although individual headsets are targeted for individual consoles.
Specifications:
- Connection: Wireless (2.4GHz and Bluetooth) and wired 3.5mm to 3.5mm audio cable, five pole to four pole.
- Features: AI-Powered noise-canceling mic, adjustable comfort system, 360 surround sound spatial audio, on-ear controls, retractable boom mic, bidirectional noise canceling mic.
- Drivers: 40 mm.
- Frequency response: 20Hz-22kHz.
- Battery: 38 hours.
- Compatibility: Xbox, PC, Mac, PlayStation, Switch, Meta Quest 2 and mobile.
- Warranty: 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Price on publish: $179.99.
What we like:
- More than one day of battery life.
- Includes one free month of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
- High-quality sound for an immersive gaming experience.
- Can be used wired or wireless.
What we don’t like:
- Short limited warranty.
- You have to choose between a primarily PC, PlayStation or Xbox model.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X features ample battery life and high-quality audio in both the headset's headphone and mic portions.
Get it here: SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless
How we selected the best gaming headsets
Value, function and system compatibility, along with the experts’ advice and recommendations, were major factors in determining which gaming headsets made our best gaming headsets list. Existing customer satisfaction was another determining factor in my choices.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Are wired or wireless headsets better for gaming?
Both experts say that your personal preference plays a factor in determining whether wired or wireless headphones are better for your gaming experience. “Wired headsets give real-time audio, which is crucial for games,” notes Namase. Santoro adds that, “Wired headsets usually offer better sound quality and don't require charging or batteries.”
However! “Wireless headsets give you lots of freedom and are ideal for the casual ‘couch’ gamer,” says Santoro. The main caveat to wireless headsets is that they require a charge to function, which could disrupt your gameplay if you forget to plug your headphones in.
How much does a gaming headset cost?
“Entry-level models cost $30–$70 and offer minimal features and acceptable acoustics,” says Namase. ”Mid-range speakers, which cost $70–$150, sound better, have more features and are more comfortable. Premium models cost $150 or more and have the finest sound, noise cancellation and durability.”
What are the popular brands for gaming headsets?
Both experts agree that SteelSeries, HyperX, Razer, Logitech and Astro Headsets are the most popular brands for the best gaming headsets. Namase also adds Corsair as another one of his recommended brands to check out. “However, you can use professional audio headsets too, like Bose. It's all about your wants, needs, desires and sound quality,” says Santoro.
How long do the batteries last in wireless gaming headsets?
“Wireless gaming headsets typically have a 15-20 hour battery life. Some top-of-the-line models have 30 hours of life,” says Santoro. Namase notes that “some luxury models can last 30 hours or more. Volume, RGB lighting and wireless link type — Bluetooth or proprietary — can further affect battery life.”
Is it better to have a separate mic and headphones for gaming?
“Yes, a dedicated mic improves the game’s sound,” says Namase. “A dedicated microphone clears sound without headset interference. Software like noise cancelation and audio equalization can eliminate background noise and echo using a separate mic setup.” Santoro adds that gaming headsets with built-in mics are a great option depending on your gaming needs. “Complete ‘built-in mics’ are a great all-in-one solution that is ready as soon as you get home,” he says.
Related article:
- Best wireless earbuds for travel, workouts and multitasking
- Best noise-canceling headphones for work, focus and studying
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
