Video game headsets: The Best Gaming Headsets for 2023

Jul 27, 2023 alexxlab

The 3 Best Gaming Headsets of 2023

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Electronics
Gaming

Photo: Michael Hession

FYI

June 2023

Great audio can draw you into a video game with bold effects, realistic details, and immersive soundtracks. A good gaming headset allows you to enjoy all of that while you chat with your friends and teammates, too. But even the best sound quality won’t do you any good if the headset isn’t comfortable to wear for long periods of time. After testing close to 20 new headsets in 2022 and 2023, we’ve found that the Razer BlackShark V2 is the most comfortable, best-sounding gaming headset for the price.

Our pick

Razer BlackShark V2

Comfortable across a wide range of head sizes, this headset provides detailed, spacious sound that’s perfect for games, and it works on every modern platform and device.

The Razer BlackShark V2 can adjust to fit a range of head sizes and shapes, and it has crisp audio with clear distinction across the bass, mids, and highs so you can hear rumbling explosions, dialogue, and light footsteps. The combination of comfort and sound quality is rare at this price, and it works with nearly any console or device. Its microphone also works well enough for casual chats, and doesn’t pick up excess noise leaking from the earcups.

Budget pick

HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 offers clear and impressive sound quality seldom found in headsets at this price, and it’s comfortable enough for most people to wear for hours on end without complaint.

If you don’t want to spend more than $50 on a headset, buy the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2. Its leatherette earcups feel good against the skin, and it’s lightweight and comfortable enough to wear for long periods of time. The Cloud Stinger 2 also delivers clear, balanced sound that keeps its integrity at any volume, and this headset has the best microphone of all our picks. After our first-impression audio test, we were shocked to learn that it costs only $50.

Upgrade pick

Razer BlackShark V2 Pro

Indisputably the best headset we tested in the past year, this model has rich, enveloping sound with superb clarity, as well as a lightweight build that makes it easy to forget you’re wearing a headset—even while wearing glasses.

Buying Options

$180 from Best Buy

*At the time of publishing, the price was $122.

No other headset we’ve tested in the past year has matched the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro in crispness and detail. Its immersive surround sound makes playing familiar games feel like a new experience, and it’s light and breathable enough to wear all day. Although it’s a wireless headset, it also comes with a 3. 5 mm cable that makes it compatible with any console.

Everything we recommend

Our pick

Razer BlackShark V2

Comfortable across a wide range of head sizes, this headset provides detailed, spacious sound that’s perfect for games, and it works on every modern platform and device.

Budget pick

HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 offers clear and impressive sound quality seldom found in headsets at this price, and it’s comfortable enough for most people to wear for hours on end without complaint.

Upgrade pick

Razer BlackShark V2 Pro

Buying Options

$180 from Best Buy

*At the time of publishing, the price was $122.

The research

Headset picks and system compatibility
Why you should trust us
Who this is for
How we picked
How we tested
Our pick: Razer BlackShark V2
Budget pick: HyperX Cloud Stinger 2
Upgrade pick: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro
What to look forward to
The competition
Frequently asked questions

Headset picks and system compatibility

	Razer BlackShark V2	HyperX Cloud Stinger 2	Razer BlackShark V2 Pro
PC	✅	✅	✅
PlayStation 5	✅	✅	✅
Xbox Series X\|S	✅	✅	✅
PlayStation 4	✅	✅	✅
Xbox One	✅	✅	✅
Nintendo Switch	✅	✅	✅
Mobile	✅	✅	✅

Why you should trust us

I spent a full year preparing to take over this guide in 2022, taking a semester-long course with Berklee College of Music to study critical listening analysis of music and sound, as well as to learn more about the recording, mixing, and mastering processes of audio production. I also read Understanding Audio by Daniel M. Thompson and practiced ear training to distinguish different frequencies and instruments. Additionally, I have more than 23 years of combined musical experience in classical piano, vocal accompaniment, and voice. I’ve also covered gaming hardware and video games for five years.

Who this is for

A gaming headset is the best option if you play a lot of multiplayer games like Call of Duty: Warzone, Fortnite, or Overwatch 2 and you want to communicate with your teammates. If you don’t play multiplayer games with voice chat, you should buy a good pair of headphones instead; for less money, you’ll get a better-sounding, nicer-looking set.

If you stream games online or you’re looking for a headset that can also work for the occasional meeting, podcast session, or professional recording, a gaming headset is not the best option. If mic sound quality is important to you, a USB microphone paired with good headphones will give you better clarity and vocal fidelity.

Less convenient, but better sound

How we picked

Photo: Michael Hession

There are so, so, so many gaming headsets, and it’s impossible to differentiate between them based on specs alone. In our research and testing, we look at the following criteria:

Comfort: A gaming headset should be comfortable to wear for hours, and shouldn’t clamp too tight on your head or jaw (or slip off your head). The headband shouldn’t dig into the top of your head, the cups shouldn’t make your ears too hot, and the headset shouldn’t pinch or let too much sound leak out if you wear glasses.
Sound quality: Gaming headsets rarely sound as detailed as comparably priced headphones, but they should still be clear and accurate, with no particular frequency range overpowering another.
Microphone: A good microphone should be able to reproduce your voice clearly and accurately, and cancel out as much background noise as possible. We like headsets with sidetone, also known as mic monitoring, which is a feature that allows you to hear your own voice through your headset, but very few models include this.
Price: After researching hundreds of headsets, we’ve found that most people should be happy with a wired set that costs around $100. Solid budget options are available for around $50, but cheaper models lose sound clarity in the headphones and mic, and comfort and build quality drop considerably. For a great-sounding wireless headset, expect to pay between $150 and $200.
Build quality: The headband shouldn’t creak when you put the headset on or move around, and the headset should survive being tossed in a bag. We prefer headsets with detachable cables and microphones, which are easier to replace if they break, as well as replaceable earpads. Most headsets come with a two-year warranty, but some companies (such as JBL) offer only a one-year warranty.
Volume controls: Gaming headsets should have volume and microphone mute controls on the earcups or on the cable. We pay attention to how easy these are to use, especially the mic-mute function.
Compatibility: Headsets with 3.5 mm connectors, like many headphones with microphones, are compatible with a wider range of gaming devices—PCs, consoles, and mobile devices—than USB headsets, which typically work only with PCs and either PlayStation consoles or Xbox consoles (almost never both).
Surround sound: If an already good headset offers virtual surround sound, that’s fine, but it’s not worth paying more for the feature. Often listed as “virtual 7.1 surround sound,” virtual surround sound simulates positional audio by artificially adding reverb and distance between channels, an effect that we’ve found makes games and music sound terrible—like throwing a tin can down a concrete hallway. In our testing, in-game surround-sound settings have sounded much better and have been much more accurate than any headset’s artificial surround sound. And any set of headphones can gain virtual surround sound on a PC with paid software like Razer Surround Sound or Dolby Atmos or the free Windows Sonic for Headphones (each of which instructs you to disable any headset-specific surround-sound settings).
Software: Some companies offer software that can customize equalizer settings, change button behavior, display battery life, or deliver firmware updates. This software should be optional, and a headset should produce excellent sound without extra drivers or downloads.

In addition to the above criteria, for wireless headsets we consider the following:

Battery life: A good wireless headset should last at least 15 to 20 hours on a single charge—longer battery life is always better—and you should be able to use the headset while it’s charging.
Connectivity: With the exception of a small handful of Bluetooth headsets, most wireless headsets come with a 2.4 GHz wireless USB dongle. The dongle should be well built, easy to use, and hard to lose. There shouldn’t be any connectivity issues, noticeable latency, buzzing sounds, or white noise.

How we tested

We try each headset on a variety of head and ear sizes to rule out those that squeeze too hard, have uncomfortable headbands, have itchy or creaky earpads, or feel uncomfortable with glasses. For every headset that passes the initial comfort test, we test audio quality by listening to a playlist of songs and other clips selected to evaluate detail, bass, and soundstage. We eliminate headsets that sound too inaccurate or unpleasant, or that lose significant elements when set to lower volumes.

Next, we test each headset with games on our budget gaming-laptop pick and various game consoles. We turn off sound-processing software installed on the laptop, though sound and microphone quality can be affected by your PC’s motherboard or sound card. We also don’t use external DACs or amplifiers, unless they come in the box with the headset. We wear all of our picks for five consecutive hours or more while gaming to test for long-term comfort.

We test the microphone performance of our most promising contenders by recording voice samples over background coffee-shop noises and while typing on a mechanical keyboard to evaluate audio quality and noise cancellation. We also chat with friends while playing loud action games to make sure that sound coming from the headset doesn’t bleed and echo into the mics. Finally, we look for any glaring latency issues by watching YouTube videos and TV shows with lots of dialogue to check the synchronization between the sound we are hearing and the mouth movements on screen.

Our pick: Razer BlackShark V2

Photo: Michael Hession

Our pick

Razer BlackShark V2

Comfortable across a wide range of head sizes, this headset provides detailed, spacious sound that’s perfect for games, and it works on every modern platform and device.

Wired/wireless:	wired	Microphone:	detachable, no sidetone
Connection:	3.5 mm auxiliary cable, or optional USB-A sound card for PC	Compatibility:	Switch, PC, PlayStation, Xbox, mobile devices
Colors:	black, blue and yellow, yellow and black	Warranty:	two years

The Razer BlackShark V2 is the best wired headset for most people thanks to its solid combination of comfort, price, and audio quality.

It’s comfortable enough to wear for hours. It adjusts to a wide range of head sizes and shapes, and it has foam earcups that feel soft against the skin. The headband doesn’t push down on the top of the head with too much force.

It has great audio quality for the price. The roomy soundstage spreads directional sounds better than some other headsets at this price, which is especially useful in online games and shooters. It also sounds crisp and clear, and doesn’t sacrifice much quality at lower volumes.

It doesn’t pick up sound bleed through the microphone. Some microphones pick up in-game sounds that leak through the earcups, which can annoy your friends or teammates. The BlackShark V2 doesn’t have this issue, and its detachable microphone reproduces your voice clearly without making it sound nasally or muffled.

It’s compatible with any console. The Blackshark V2 uses a wired 3.5 mm cable to connect to any console or controller you may have. It also comes with an optional USB-A connector for PCs that enables THX Spatial Audio through Razer’s Synapse software. We didn’t notice a significant difference between audio quality through the sound card compared with the standard 3.5 mm connection, but it didn’t hurt our listening experience, either.

It has decent noise cancellation that makes it easy to stay immersed in the game. Compared with many of the other headsets we tested, the BlackShark V2 blocks out a lot of noise. But because it doesn’t have sidetone, it can leave you prone to shouting through the microphone.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The Razer BlackShark V2’s cable isn’t detachable, so if some part of the wire breaks after the headset’s warranty period is over, you’ll have to open up the earcup and solder a new wire to replace it.
Some people may find the memory foam on the earcups to be warmer than a material like leatherette, and it’s also a bit harder to clean.
The onboard audio controls are minimal, with only a volume knob and a mute button on the left earcup. Some people may want more controls, such as chat-volume adjustment.

Budget pick: HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

Photo: Michael Hession

Budget pick

HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 offers clear and impressive sound quality seldom found in headsets at this price, and it’s comfortable enough for most people to wear for hours on end without complaint.

Wired/wireless:	wired	Microphone:	swivel-to-mute, no sidetone
Connection:	3.5 mm auxiliary cable	Compatibility:	Switch, PC, PlayStation, Xbox, mobile devices
Available colors:	black	Warranty:	two years

We were surprised to find that the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 costs only $50. It’s well balanced and comfortable to wear for long periods of time, it has the best microphone of all our picks, and it sounds better than many of the more expensive headsets we tested.

It sounds better than many headsets that cost triple the price. The results were spacious enough for us to distinguish similar sound effects and tones from one another. It has less audible complexity than our other picks, but the quality is still impressive for a headset at this price.

It doesn’t sacrifice quality at lower volumes. Many gaming headsets—including more expensive models—clip off certain frequencies when set to lower volumes, but in our tests the Cloud Stinger 2 kept all of the elements of music and in-game sounds no matter how quiet it was.

It has decent virtual surround sound. This headset comes with a two-year software license for DTS Sound Unbound, which creates virtual surround sound for certain devices on PCs and Xbox consoles. The difference isn’t drastic, but it’s worth taking advantage and enabling DTS:X Spatial Audio to widen the headset’s soundstage even more. It never delivers true 360-degree surround sound—most directional sounds can be heard in an arc of about 180 degrees around the front and sides—but that’s better than most budget headsets can promise.

It has the best microphone of all our picks. The microphone on the Cloud Stinger 2 swivels out of the way and automatically mutes when raised, which we love—as might anyone who has ever had a mute-button mishap in the past. The mic offers clear and accurate voice reproduction, and in our tests, it didn’t pick up ambient background or typing noises. While we wouldn’t use the mics on any of our other picks for something like streaming or recording a podcast, we believe the Cloud Stinger 2’s mic would fare just fine in such instances.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The Cloud Stinger 2 is compatible with all consoles thanks to its 3.5 mm cable, but the cable is built into the headset and thus cannot be removed. If it breaks after the headset’s warranty period is over, you’ll have to open up the earcup and solder a new wire to replace it.
The build quality feels cheaper and more rickety than our other picks, but its leatherette earcups feel nice against the skin, and if they wear out over time, you can replace them with a number of third-party options.

Upgrade pick: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro

Photo: Michael Hession

Upgrade pick

Razer BlackShark V2 Pro

Buying Options

$180 from Best Buy

*At the time of publishing, the price was $122.

Wired/wireless:	wireless	Microphone:	detachable, no sidetone
Connection:	USB-A dongle, or detachable 3.5 mm auxiliary cable	Compatibility:	wireless for Switch, PC, and PlayStation; wired for Xbox and mobile devices
Available colors:	black, white, white and black with orange highlights	Warranty:	two years

The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro looks nearly identical to our top pick, the Razer BlackShark V2, but it offers wireless connectivity and an upgraded listening experience with its crisp audio and immersive surround sound.

It’s more comfortable. The BlackShark V2 Pro has the same soft memory-foam earcups and wide range of adjustment as the BlackShark V2, but it weighs about 2 ounces more, which actually makes it feel sturdier and more balanced on the head.

You can ditch the cable. This headset connects wirelessly with a USB-A dongle and charges via micro-USB, but it can also work with any console thanks to the included 3.5 mm cable.

It sounds amazing. We played a number of games with the BlackShark V2 Pro, including titles we’re very familiar with, and we were in awe of the new sounds we heard through this headset that we’d never noticed before. We could hear characters speaking behind us from a distance more clearly than ever before in games like God of War and Grand Theft Auto V, and atmospheric details like wind blowing and birds chirping sounded realistic in tone and proximity. The BlackShark V2 Pro’s soundstage is extremely roomy, and the audio quality is crisp and balanced. It’s also an excellent headset for simply listening to music.

Photo: Michael Hession

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The BlackShark V2 Pro’s detachable microphone made my voice sound distant, muffled, and nasally. It came through audibly enough for basic chat, but for this headset’s price, we’d expect better voice reproduction.
The inner headband and memory-foam earcups are comfortable and breathable, but this material is harder to clean and more likely to absorb sweat than something like leatherette.

What to look forward to

We’ll test more Xbox-compatible wireless headsets for our next update. Xbox wireless headsets are scarcer than options for PlayStation, and we haven’t been impressed with the ones we’ve tested so far.

The competition

We dismissed the following headsets because they’re uncomfortable for a variety of head and ear sizes, have a poor range of adjustment and slide off the head easily, or apply too much pressure in one or more areas:

HyperX Cloud Core + 7. 1, HyperX Cloud Stinger Core
JBL Quantum 100, JBL Quantum 200, JBL Quantum 400, JBL Quantum 600
Logitech G332, Logitech G733, Logitech G735
Razer BlackShark V2 X, Razer Kraken X, Razer Kraken 2019
SteelSeries Arctis 7+, SteelSeries Arctis 7P+, SteelSeries Arctis 9, SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1
Audeze Maxwell Wireless
Beyerdynamic MMX 100
Drop + Sennheiser PC38X
Drop + Epos h4X
PDP Airlite Pro Wireless
PlayStation Pulse 3D
Skullcandy PLYR

These headsets were dismissed for poor audio quality, or quality that couldn’t beat our current picks:

Astro A30 Wireless
Audio-Technica ATH-GDL3, Audio-Technica ATH-GL3
Beyerdynamic MMX 100, Beyerdynamic MMX 150, Beyerdynamic MMX 300
Corsair HS60 Pro
Drop + Sennheiser PC38X
HyperX Cloud II Wireless + 7.1
JBL Quantum 350 Wireless, JBL Quantum 400, JBL Quantum One
PDP Airlite Pro Wireless
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3
Raycon Gaming Headphones
Razer Kaira Pro, Razer Kraken 2019, Razer Kraken V3 Pro
SteelSeries Arctis 9, SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless, Steelseries Arctis Prime

We dismissed the following headsets for connectivity limitations or issues, such as wireless headsets offering no option for wired connections, or USB-A-only connection types:

This article was edited by Arthur Gies and Caitlin McGarry.

Frequently asked questions

Do wireless gaming headsets use Bluetooth?

Some wireless gaming headsets use Bluetooth to connect to computers or mobile devices, but it’s less ideal for consoles or as the primary form of connection. Most headsets connect through a USB-A 2.4 GHz dongle because that type of connection is more stable and reliable.

Can I use a USB headset with an Xbox, PS4, or PS5?

Only officially licensed USB headsets work with each console via USB—be sure to do a quick Google search to see if your headset is supported. We have a compatibility table for our picks at the top of this guide.

Meet your guide

Haley Perry

Haley Perry is an associate staff writer at Wirecutter covering video games and technology. She used to review video games full-time, and she’s also a big fan of mezcal. If you get enough in her, she may just admit that she still plays The Sims … a lot.

The 7 Best Gaming Headsets – Spring 2023: Reviews

Table of Contents
Intro
Best Headset
1. Best Upper Mid-Range
  1. Best Mid-Range
    1. Best Lower Mid-Range
      1. Best Budget
        
        Best Cheap
        
        Best Open-Back
        
        Notable Mentions
        
        Recent Updates
        
        All Reviews
        
        Discussions
        
        Updated Jun 07, 2023 at 01:13 pm
        
        By Kieran Dunn
        
        A good headset can make a big difference when playing games. Whether you like to get immersed in the game with the music or sound effects or need to hear every enemy footstep, choosing the right headphones for you can be quite a task. You should look at overall build quality, how comfortable they are, how they sound, and if the microphone sounds good. Most wired audiophile headphones will be a good option if you don’t need a microphone.
        
        We’ve tested over 730 headphones, and below are our recommendations for the best headsets to buy for gaming. Also, see our recommendations for the best PS4 headsets, the best Xbox One headsets, the best PS5 headsets, and the best Xbox Series X/S headsets.
        
        Best Gaming Headset
        
        Audeze Maxwell Wireless
        
        Searching
        
        Finding Store
        
        Searching
        
        Finding Store
        
        Wired Gaming
        
        7.9
        
        Wireless Gaming
        
        7.8
        
        Type
        
        Over-ear
        
        Enclosure
        
        Closed-Back
        
        Wireless
        
        Yes
        
        Transducer
        
        Planar Magnetic
        
        Noise Cancelling
        
        No
        
        Mic
        
        Yes
        
        See all our test results
        
        The best headset for gaming we’ve tested is the Audeze Maxwell Wireless. These sturdy, feature-packed wireless headphones come in Xbox and PlayStation variants compatible with PCs. They stand out from many other gaming headsets because they use planar magnetic drivers, which helps them produce a more extended bass response and create a wider passive soundstage relative to dynamic driver headphones like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro. Their default sound profile is neutral, so elements like footsteps and explosions, as well as voices in cutscenes, are reproduced accurately.
        
        Although they don’t have an in-app EQ, which is unusual for gaming headphones, they offer a few EQ presets for sound customization. They also support Dolby Atmos, a virtual surround sound feature to make your listening experience more immersive. They come with a USB dongle with a low-latency connection, so your audio and video will stay in sync while gaming. You have plenty of options for connecting to your console or PC.
        
        The Audeze also support multi-device pairing, so you can hear audio from your phone via Bluetooth and your console simultaneously, as long as you use an analog or wired USB connection. For online gamers, the detachable boom mic offers great performance. It makes your voice sound clear and understandable, and the mic has outstanding noise handling, so it won’t be drowned out even if you’re playing in a noisy area. However, these headphones are currently back-ordered, so getting your hands on a pair can take a while.
        
        See our review
        
        Best Upper Mid-Range Gaming Headset
        
        SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro
        
        Searching
        
        Finding Store
        
        Searching
        
        Finding Store
        
        Wired Gaming
        
        7.7
        
        Wireless Gaming
        
        5.9
        
        Type
        
        Over-ear
        
        Enclosure
        
        Closed-Back
        
        Wireless
        
        No
        
        Transducer
        
        Dynamic
        
        Noise Cancelling
        
        No
        
        Mic
        
        Yes
        
        See all our test results
        
        The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro is the best gaming headset in the upper mid-range that we’ve tested. These headphones are the wired variant of the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless for Xbox. While they lack a few of that headset’s features, like ANC, they come with a USB dock that provides a low latency wired connection and easy access to controls like channel mixing and EQ settings. They’re well-built, comfortable for most people, and have a boom mic that makes your voice sound clear and natural, even with some noise in the background.
        
        Out of the box, they have a well-balanced sound profile with a bit of extra boom, which can help bring out sound effects in games. The treble response is somewhat uneven, and some sounds can be harsh or piercing. Like the previous pick, they have companion software with a parametric EQ and presets, so you can adjust the sound to suit you. The dock is console-locked, so you need to be sure to get the right variant, but you can use either variant with most consoles via analog connection.
        
        The Astro A30 Wireless are another solid upper mid-range option if you prefer wireless headphones. They provide low latency for gaming and also support Bluetooth, meaning you can connect to your phone. They last for around 40 hours of continuous use but aren’t as comfortable for most and don’t have virtual surround sound features.
        
        See our review
        
        Best Mid-Range Gaming Headset
        
        SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless [7, 7P, 7X]
        
        Searching
        
        Finding Store
        
        Searching
        
        Finding Store
        
        Wired Gaming
        
        7.8
        
        Wireless Gaming
        
        7.6
        
        Type
        
        Over-ear
        
        Enclosure
        
        Closed-Back
        
        Wireless
        
        Yes
        
        Transducer
        
        Dynamic
        
        Noise Cancelling
        
        No
        
        Mic
        
        Yes
        
        See all our test results
        
        The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless are the best headphones for gaming in the mid-range we’ve tested. These headphones come at a lower price than SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro, so it’s natural for their mic not to perform as well. They have a high noise floor while monitoring your voice, and while that’s a downside if you play a lot of multiplayer games, the mic still makes your voice sound clear and natural. These headphones also support Bluetooth, which allows you to mix chat audio or music from your phone and game audio.
        
        Their wireless USB dongle has no controls but provides low enough latency for gaming, so your audio and video won’t be out of sync. Similar to the previous picks, they have a bass-rich sound profile with a well-balanced mid-range, so voices are present and clear but can also sound veiled and lack detail. Fortunately, the app features a graphic EQ and presets for sound customization. They last for around 30 hours off of a single charge, and you can also use them wired in a pinch.
        
        Keep in mind that they come in a few variants for different consoles. We tested the 7X variant, which is meant for Xbox but can also connect with PlayStation using the USB dongle, although any changes you made in the app, like sound customizations, won’t apply. The 7 and 7P variants don’t support a wireless connection with Xbox but might be the better choice if you only use PC or PlayStation.
        
        See our review
        
        Best Lower Mid-Range Gaming Headset
        
        Logitech G535 LIGHTSPEED Wireless
        
        Searching
        
        Finding Store
        
        Searching
        
        Finding Store
        
        Wired Gaming
        
        6.0
        
        Wireless Gaming
        
        7.7
        
        Type
        
        Over-ear
        
        Enclosure
        
        Closed-Back
        
        Wireless
        
        Yes
        
        Transducer
        
        Dynamic
        
        Noise Cancelling
        
        No
        
        Mic
        
        Yes
        
        See all our test results
        
        If you’re looking for a budget-friendly headset for gaming, check out the Logitech G535 LIGHTSPEED Wireless. These inexpensive headphones are missing some of the previous picks’ helpful features, like Bluetooth, a wired connection, or Xbox compatibility. However, if you’re a PlayStation gamer or looking for the best PC gaming headset in the budget range, their wireless dongle provides a low latency connection for gaming.
        
        Their default sound lacks low-bass, so your audio is missing some thump and rumble. There’s some overemphasis in the high-bass range that adds warmth and punch, which can help bring out sound effects like footsteps in games. They work with companion software that includes a graphic EQ with sound presets and virtual surround sound features that can help create a more immersive listening experience. However, if you use the mic often when gaming, remember that it doesn’t have the best performance, making your voice sound thin compared to the pricier headphones here.
        
        See our review
        
        Βest Budget Gaming Ηeadset
        
        Logitech G432
        
        Searching
        
        Finding Store
        
        Searching
        
        Finding Store
        
        Wired Gaming
        
        7. 4
        
        Wireless Gaming
        
        5.7
        
        Type
        
        Over-ear
        
        Enclosure
        
        Closed-Back
        
        Wireless
        
        No
        
        Transducer
        
        Dynamic
        
        Noise Cancelling
        
        No
        
        Mic
        
        Yes
        
        See all our test results
        
        The best budget gaming headset we’ve tested is the Logitech G432. A reputable brand like Logitech can also be a safe bet if you care about quality and durability, as lower-priced models on the market can have glaring flaws like driver mismatches and faulty frames. Unlike the Logitech G535 LIGHTSPEED Wireless, the G432 are wired-only, though they still offer a solid performance that can rival more expensive wireless models. These headphones also have a good mic performance, so your voice is easily understood when gaming with friends. Their lightweight, comfortable fit is suitable for long gaming sessions as well.
        
        Their sound profile is light on bass, which isn’t ideal for action-packed games, but you can customize it with a graphic EQ and presets in the companion app. Their wired USΒ dongle provides a low latency connection and works with PlayStation consoles, but it’s incompatible with Xbox. You can still use the headphones with these consoles if you plug them into a controller, but it’ll mean you can’t use the features, like the EQ, in the companion app.
        
        See our review
        
        Best Cheap Gaming Headset
        
        Logitech G435 LIGHTSPEED Wireless
        
        Searching
        
        Finding Store
        
        Searching
        
        Finding Store
        
        Wired Gaming
        
        5.5
        
        Wireless Gaming
        
        6.9
        
        Type
        
        Over-ear
        
        Enclosure
        
        Closed-Back
        
        Wireless
        
        Yes
        
        Transducer
        
        Dynamic
        
        Noise Cancelling
        
        No
        
        Mic
        
        Yes
        
        See all our test results
        
        The best cheap gaming headset we’ve tested is the Logitech G435 LIGHTSPEED Wireless. Logitech manufactures a solid lineup of low-cost gaming headphones that perform very well. In the case of the G435, their plastic frame isn’t the sturdiest, but they have decently low latency over both Bluetooth and their wireless USB dongle. They’re also unique since they’re made and marketed toward teens and have a built-in noise gate that stops audio from reaching damaging levels.
        
        It won’t help if you’re trying to crank your game to better hear footsteps, but it could be beneficial if you’re trying to preserve your ear health if you play a lot of back-to-back matches. They have a slightly warm sound profile with extra bass to make explosions and footsteps more prominent in the mix. Dialogue and instruments also sound bright and present, but you can’t adjust their sound to your preferences since they don’t have an EQ.
        
        They also have poor passive noise isolation performance and will let in a lot of noise and leak a lot of game audio to those around you. Fortunately, their mic makes your voice sound bright and clear, though a little unnatural, and their nearly 20-hour battery will last you through several play sessions. While these features make them the best PC gaming headset and the best for PlayStation consoles we’ve tested at this price range, they sadly aren’t compatible with Xbox consoles.
        
        See our review
        
        Best Open-Back Gaming Headset
        
        Drop + Sennheiser PC38X
        
        Searching
        
        Finding Store
        
        Searching
        
        Finding Store
        
        Wired Gaming
        
        7.7
        
        Wireless Gaming
        
        5.7
        
        Type
        
        Over-ear
        
        Enclosure
        
        Open-Back
        
        Wireless
        
        No
        
        Transducer
        
        Dynamic
        
        Noise Cancelling
        
        No
        
        Mic
        
        Yes
        
        See all our test results
        
        The best open-back gaming headset we’ve tested is the Drop + Sennheiser PC38X. These wired headphones are around the same price as the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7, but you might prefer them if you like your game audio to be as immersive as possible. Their open design helps them create a soundstage that seems wider and more spacious than the closed-back options on this list. While they lack a bit of low-bass, they have a well-balanced sound profile suitable for action-packed games or dialogue-heavy cutscenes. However, they aren’t ideal for use in a noisy or shared space since they don’t block out ambient sound and leak a lot of audio.
        
        They’re well-built, have a comfortable fit, and come with a choice of microfiber or velour ear cup padding. They also have a boom mic that makes your voice sound natural and full-bodied during multiplayer games. Because of their wired design, they work with most consoles, and you don’t need to worry about latency. That said, unlike headphones like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro, they don’t have a dock that gives you access to controls like sidetone. Their onboard controls are limited, but you can flip up the mic to mute it and adjust the volume with a wheel on one ear cup.
        
        See our review
        
        Notable Mentions
        
        SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless for Xbox:
        The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless are high-end gaming headphones with a wireless dock that puts controls like volume and EQ settings at your fingertips. However, the Audeze Maxwell Wireless have a more neutral sound profile, better virtual surround sound features, a better mic performance, and a longer continuous battery life.
        See our review
        
        Razer Kaira Pro Wireless for Xbox:
        The Razer Kaira Pro Wireless for Xbox are budget-friendly wireless gaming headphones that support a wireless connection to Xbox consoles, unlike the Logitech G535 LIGHTSPEED Wireless. They’re well-built, have fairly low wireless latency, and even support Bluetooth. However, their default sound profile is uneven, which results in intense boom and muddy dialogue and instruments.
        See our review
        
        HyperX Cloud 2/Cloud II:
        The HyperX Cloud 2/Cloud II is a very well-built wired gaming headset that’s impressively comfortable but has an underemphasized treble response that makes your audio sound less detailed. It doesn’t have an app with sound customization features, unlike the Logitech G432.
        See our review
        
        Xbox Wireless Headset:
        The Xbox Wireless Ηeadset is found around the same price point as the Logitech G535 LIGHTSPEED Wireless, and you may prefer it if you use an Xbox since it supports Xbox Wireless as well as Βluetooth. However, it’s not as versatile since it’s incompatible with PlayStation. Its continuous battery life is also shorter and has high latency.
        See our review
        
        SteelSeries Arctis 7+ Wireless:
        The SteelSeries Arctis 7+ Wireless are gaming headphones with low latency, roughly 60 hours of battery life, and an in-app parametric EQ for sound customization. However, their mic isn’t as good as the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless, and their sound profile isn’t as neutral, which some users may prefer.
        See our review
        
        Razer Barracuda Pro Wireless:
        The Razer Barracuda Pro Wireless headphones are designed for gaming and casual use, like commuting. They have a great ANC system, which is unusual for gaming headsets, but their integrated mic doesn’t perform as well as the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro’s boom mic.
        See our review
        
        Recent Updates
        
        Jun 07, 2023:
        Due to user reports of high latency when using their companion software, we retested the HyperX Cloud Alpha. We experienced the same issue when using them both with and without their software. As such, we’ve replaced them with the Logitech G535, moved the Logitech G432 up to ‘Best Budget’, and added the Logitech G435 as our pick for the ‘Best Cheap Gaming Headset’.
        
        May 11, 2023:
        Made the Audeze Maxwell Wireless the ‘Best Gaming Headset’ and moved the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless for Xbox to Notable Mentions.
        
        Mar 02, 2023:
        Made minor updates to the text and checked that the products are in stock.
        
        Jan 31, 2023:
        Made minor updates to the text and checked that the products are in stock.
        
        Dec 21, 2022:
        Removed the Astro A50 Gen 4 Wireless 2019 and the Astro A40 TR Headset + MixAmp Pro 2019 because users have reported an issue with updating the headphones’ firmware via the Astro Command Center software. Added the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless as the ‘Best Mid-Range’ pick and the Drop + Sennheiser PC38X as the ‘Best Open-Back Gaming Headset’.
        
        All Reviews
        
        Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best gaming headphones to buy for most people in each price range. We factor in the price (cheaper headphones win over pricier ones if the difference isn’t worth it), feedback from our visitors, and availability (no headphones that are difficult to find or almost out of stock everywhere).
        
        If you would like to choose for yourself, here is the list of all our headphones reviews, sorted by their wireless gaming performance. Be careful not to get caught up in the details. There are no perfect headphones. Personal taste, preference, and listening habits will matter more in your selection, especially if you don’t care about having a microphone or wireless features.
        
        Video game gaming headsets – Huge selection at the best prices
        
        37,286 results
        
        Picking Out the Perfect Gaming Headset
        Are you interested in getting a headset that will make gaming more convenient and fun? Here are some important factors you should consider as you shop for headsets.
        
        Should You Get Corded or Cordless Gaming Headsets?
        Cordless headsets are ideal for the active gamer. They keep you from getting tangled up in a cord, and you can get up to grab a snack without ever having to take off your headset. However, if you want fast setup, a corded gaming headset can be nice because you just plug in the USB connector or aux cable and go instead of having to fiddle with pairing the headset to your console or PC. Another perk is that wired headsets do not need to be charged.
        
        What Types of Games Do You Play?
        Do you spend a lot of time in multiplayer first-person shooters like the Call of Duty series? You’re going to want a headset with good audio and a sensitive microphone for strategizing with your team. If you like more traditional console games then communication may not be as important, allowing you to go for a more affordable model. An additional consideration is where you play. Is privacy an issue? A noise-canceling headset may be appreciated by both you and roommates or family members.
        
        What are Your Mic Options?
        The mic is a big part of any good headset, and pretty much critical for multiplayer games. Most headsets have either a boom mic, where the microphone is attached to an extendable arm, or an inline microphone that is built into the headset. Inline microphones give you a sleeker look and get in the way less. However, boom mics can help isolate your voice from background noise.
        
        What are Some Helpful Gaming Headset Controls?
        At the most basic level, it’s useful to have volume control and a mute button on the headset for easy controls. For more customization, look for gaming headsets that have an app or on-screen settings where you can equalize volume, adjust bass settings, and further tweak your sound system.
        
        How Do You Get a Headset Compatible with Your Setup?
        If the headset is corded, make sure it has a connector that will fit into your computer or console. For cordless headsets, you need to check that it can work with your device. For example, if the headset is Bluetooth, you can only use it with a console or computer that picks up Bluetooth devices.
        
        What are Popular Gaming Headset Brands?
        Here are some big gaming headset brands you might want to check out:
        
        Turtle Beach:
        
        Sony: Sony headsets are especially useful if you like playing on PlayStation, but they are also popular with PC players due to their ease of use.
        
        Steelseries: These high-end headsets focus on high-fidelity audio and extra comfort.
        
        Corsair: Corsair is a popular budget pick that offers all the essentials without pricey frills.
        
        Certified Refurbished Gaming Headsets
        A high-quality headset can be expensive, but there are options if you’re on a budget. eBay’s eBay Refurbished headsets are guaranteed to arrive in like-new condition, including packaging, instruction manuals, and accessories. Your headset comes with a 2-year warranty and a 30-day return/replacement policy that begins when you receive the package. Only select sellers can participate in the program, and they’re held to eBay’s highest standards of customer service. Shopping Certified Refurbished products is a smart way to access premium brands at bargain prices.
        
        Content provided for informational purposes only. eBay is not affiliated with or endorsed by Sony, Corsair, Steelseries or Turtle Beach.
        
        Users looking at Video Game Headsets have also viewed Ps4 Headset
        e Headsets have also viewed Ps4 Headset
        
        Smart shopping with eBay Refurbished
        
        eBay Refurbished is your budget-stretching secret weapon. eBay offers the best value on the biggest selection of refurbished products from exceptional sellers with warranties as good as or superior to what’s offered on brand-new products.Because everyone should be empowered to get the exact products they want in the right condition at the right price so their dollars go further.
        
        Certified Refurbished: The item is in pristine, like-new condition, backed by a two-year warranty . It has been professionally inspected, cleaned, and refurbished by the manufacturer or a manufacturer-approved vendor to meet manufacturer specifications. The item will be in new packaging with original or new accessories.
        
        Excellent Refurbished: The item is in like-new condition, backed by a one year warranty. It has been professionally refurbished, inspected and cleaned to excellent condition by qualified sellers. The item includes original or new accessories and will come in new generic packaging.
        
        Very Good Refurbished: The item shows minimal wear and is backed by a one year warranty. It is fully functional and has been professionally refurbished, inspected and cleaned to very good condition by qualified sellers. The item includes original or new accessories and will come in new generic packaging.
        
        Good Refurbished: The item shows moderate wear and is backed by a one year warranty. It is fully functional and has been professionally refurbished, inspected and cleaned to good condition by qualified sellers. The item includes original or new accessories and will come in a new generic packaging.
        
        Industry-leading Warranty and 30 day returns Included in Every Purchase
        
        eBay has partnered with Allstate to include an award winning warranty in every box. So you’re covered in the event your item breaks or malfunctions. Learn more about ebay refurbished warranty coverage.
        
        eBay Refurbished items can be returned or replaced for free within 30 days of receiving them. Only a select group of eBay sellers can participate in the program, and we monitor their performance to ensure they live up to the highest standards of customer service. Learn more about the perks of shopping eBay Refurbished.
        
        Returns Made Simple How It Works
        
        Start your return: In My eBay, find the item under Purchase history, then in More actions, choose Return this item.
        
        Select your reason: Depending on the seller’s return policy, we may put you in touch with them directly.
        
        Ship it back: You’ll be issued a packing slip and shipping label. Pack the item and ship it.
        
        Quick Tips:
        
        Check the listing’s return policy before making your purchase.
        
        Be sure to note shipping deadlines and whether an item can be returned for a refund, replacement, or exchange.
        
        Return the item in the same condition you received it in — pack it well. Learn more about the item condition policy
        
        We work hard to make returns smooth. For those rare cases when they don’t go that way, the eBay Money Back Guarantee may help. Get the item you ordered or your money back–guaranteed.
        
        eBay Money Back Guarantee
        
        Whatever you’re buying–large or small–eBay offers many ways to ensure you get exactly what you want.
        
        Get the item you ordered or your money back–it’s that simple. Our eBay Money Back Guarantee applies to virtually everything on our site, and there’s no extra fee for coverage. It’s automatic and covers your purchase price plus original shipping on eligible purchases*.
        
        Follow these steps to get your refund:
        
        Contact Your Seller If an item hasn’t arrived or isn’t as described, go to My eBay, select the item in your purchase history, and reach out to your seller.
        
        Not resolved? Let us know. If you’ve talked to your seller and the issue still isn’t resolved after three business days, contact us.
        
        We’ll get your money back. fast. You can count on hearing from us within 48 hours.
        
        *Item exclusions apply. For full terms and conditions, read our eBay Money Back Guarantee policy.
        
        Are wireless headsets suitable for gaming? (2023) – Raise Your Skillz
        
        In this post, we’ll ditch all cables and take a look at wireless headsets. In particular, we are talking about wireless gaming headsets that have proven themselves in the market in recent years. Naturally, gamers are always wondering if it makes sense to use these headsets for gaming.
        
        Wireless headsets have two significant drawbacks that are taboo for professional gamers. However, for casual gamers, wireless headsets are a practical alternative. Only under optimal conditions, there is no difference between wired and wireless headsets while gaming.
        
        More and more wireless devices are taking over the market. In games, players can now choose from countless wireless input and output devices such as headsets. So every gamer will ask themselves at some point: are wireless headsets better or at least equal to cable headsets, or are there critical flaws?
        
        This is what you get:
        
        Quick introduction Wireless headsets and games
        
        Bluetooth or Wi-Fi – what type of connection do wireless headsets use?
        
        3 advantages of a wireless headset
        
        7 disadvantages of a wireless headset
        
        Conclusion
        
        See also
        
        Note: This article is written in English. Translations into other languages may not provide the same linguistic quality. We apologize for the grammatical and semantic errors.
        
        Brief introduction Wireless headsets and games
        
        With the advent of the first stable Bluetooth standards in 2002/2003, the first wireless headsets for end users were released. However, with data rates of less than 1Mbps and interference-prone PC connections, this new generation of peripherals quickly gained a bad reputation among gamers.
        
        Just ten years later, the technology has become much more mature. 30 times faster, more stable connection over 30 feet and more power efficient usage has made wireless headsets enjoyable for more and more people.
        
        Are gamers among these people?
        
        No.
        
        There have always been good reasons why gamers despise wireless headsets and why they continue to use wired devices.
        
        In any case, one reason is eliminated – the type of connection.
        
        Honest recommendation: You have the skill, but your mouse doesn't perfectly support your aim? Never fight mouse capture again. Masakari and most professionals rely on the Logitech G Pro X Ultralight. See for yourself with this honest review written by Masakari or check out the technical details on Amazon right now. The right gaming mouse for you matters a lot!
        
        Bluetooth or Wi-Fi – what type of connection do the wireless headsets use?
        
        Perhaps gamers have something against Bluetooth and therefore reject wireless headsets. With very few exceptions, wireless headsets use Bluetooth as their connection protocol.
        
        However, this thesis can be refuted with certainty. First, gamers are now using other Bluetooth devices, such as wireless mice. Secondly, Bluetooth significantly improves battery life compared to Wi-Fi. Finally, Bluetooth requires much less power and is rightfully the standard for battery-powered peripherals.
        
        Wi-Fi protocols are designed for very stable data traffic, but not specifically for audio signals. As a result, Wi-Fi is inferior in quality to Bluetooth in terms of sound range.
        
        So let’s now look at the decisive factors.
        
        3 advantages of the wireless headset
        
        The three advantages are clear – as with all wireless technologies. I know it’s not that exciting for you, but we don’t want to let them get under the table. The following section discusses seven shortcomings. So, for the sake of completeness, here are the benefits. 😉
        
        1. Optics.
        
        Cable twist – cable assembly. Cables always get in the way. In addition, the wireless device looks “cleaner” in design – a clear plus for wireless headsets.
        
        2. Freedom of movement
        
        Just get up and drink coffee. For a regular headset, this means putting the headset somewhere first.
        
        As soon as the coffee arrives, the opposite is true – take the headset and put it on.
        
        For such cases, a wireless headset has clear advantages. Even from a few feet away, you can still talk to your friends via voice chat. Depending on the assortment, you can even get to the kitchen and back.
        
        3. No cable tangles
        
        Maybe you change your headset from PC to console more often. Disconnecting, reconnecting, finding a connector and laying a cable takes time. Or meet up with friends at small LAN parties. A wired headset, like any wired device, has a natural ability to connect to other cables.
        
        Fascinating wacky feature, isn’t it?
        
        So, in your bag you have a mouse with a cable, a network cable, etc.
        
        With a wireless headset, you don’t understand what I’m talking about.
        
        7 disadvantages of the wireless headset
        
        Spontaneously I can think of 7 disadvantages.
        
        1. Battery
        
        Battery technology keeps getting better and better. In standby mode, the batteries of wireless headsets last a very long time. Therefore, frequent charging is not required.
        
        If you don’t use it; o)
        
        Absurd, right?
        
        If the wireless headset is used for several hours, the battery level drops quickly. In this case, daily recharging is required. We know this from mobile phones – it’s annoying!
        
        In addition, batteries are usually used continuously. Thus, no one can charge or discharge the battery in an optimal way, i.e. the battery can no longer be fully charged at some point (usually right after the warranty period expires). Annoying.
        
        Nowadays the energy balance is also important – the key word here is “environmental protection”. Batteries are made using toxins and energy. At the end of their life cycle, you cannot completely recycle them. For a gamer who cares about the environment, this is certainly a decision criterion.
        
        2. Latency and sound quality
        
        Wired headphones have a natural latency of 5-10ms. With conventional wireless headsets, latency increases to 50-200ms even with the latest Bluetooth 5.0 standard.
        
        What is suitable for regular use, such as voice chat or listening to music, is not suitable for gamers. If you hear your opponent 100ms late, you are dead, or at least severely flawed.
        
        There is currently an unusual and rare Bluetooth. codec ( aptX LL ) is available for wireless gaming headsets but still generates 30-40ms latency.
        
        These numbers are very scary for gamers, although we are talking about a delay that is three times less than the blink of an eye (100ms).
        
        However, due to high delays, a second negative factor also plays a role – lower sound quality. The stronger the signal compression, the lower the delay. However, compression in this case results in loss of sound quality.
        
        With Bluetooth 5.0, the new cod ecs have been introduced, the improved compression of which results in much less loss of sound quality. However, wireless headsets have not come close to the current wired headset standard.
        
        3. Weight
        
        Wireless headsets weigh 1-3.5 ounces more than their wired counterparts. Is this really relevant and is it a disadvantage? I am not an orthopedic surgeon, but every extra gram on the head is unnatural and strains the neck and neck muscles. This can have a negative effect on very long gaming sessions.
        
        4. Maximum sound quality and bitrate
        
        Let’s look at the fastest wireless codec (AptX LL) in terms of maximum bitrate. We can see that the codec/driver is limited to 44.1 kHz by the Windows operating system.
        
        However, the sound range of games covers sounds up to 48 kHz.
        
        This is Bluetooth cod This is where the ec for gamers lives, so with a compromise – low latency is bought with limited sound quality.
        
        Of course there are codecs with better sound quality, but that means less compression, resulting in higher latency.
        
        A dilemma that wired headsets don’t know.
        
        5. Price
        
        Wireless headsets are more expensive than comparable wired ones. A comparison of the wired and wireless versions of the headset shows that manufacturers are doubling the price of a wireless device. However, I cannot judge if this is justified by the technology used (transmitter, receiver, etc. ).
        
        6. durability
        
        We’ve all experienced this before: the headset slips off the head or lays on the table and slides down. But with a wireless headset, there is only one result: a blow to the floor.
        
        The wired headset still has a chance of snagging on the cable at a safe height.
        
        You may smile now, but I’ve seen these accidents more often than I’d like. This may be good, but it can also mean that the components inside are damaged, there is a loss of contact, or the headset stops working immediately. Sometimes the cable is something like free insurance.
        
        7. Wrong placement
        
        Who doesn’t know this? Before leaving its four walls, the key suddenly disappeared.
        
        The search now begins in a panic.
        
        Theoretically, this could happen with a wireless headset. Admittedly, the chance is small, but it’s just as annoying as finding the key if you’ve lost your headset.
        
        Conclusion
        
        I will buy two headsets – regular and wireless. Why?
        
        For casual gaming on the couch or console, a wireless headset is of course much more convenient. If you only play a few hours a day or a week, most of the downsides (assuming you have the necessary changes) don’t matter.
        
        The exception is when you use the headset not only for gaming, but also for other purposes that require the best sound quality. If you’re a DJ, composer, or whatever, you certainly won’t lower the bitrate.
        
        The wired headset will always be my first choice when it comes to competitive gaming. This is where real-time audio cues with high audio quality are critical and determine victory or defeat.
        
        If you use your headset for more than 8 hours a day, you cannot afford to run the risk of battery drain.
        
        Have you ever wondered why professional gamers always wear two headphones on top of each other at events? Here is the answer.
        
        If you have questions about the publication or games in general, please email us: contact@raiseyourskillz.