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Best Gaming Headset 2024: The best headsets for consoles and PCs
In This Article
Finding the best gaming headset for your console or PC can be a tough task. Not only are there compatibility concerns, but there are also a number of elements you need to consider, from comfort and audio quality to microphone performance.
This makes it virtually impossible to judge the quality of a gaming headset from specs alone. Fortunately, we’ve stepped in to help find the best gaming headset options for every budget.
Our team of experts has thoroughly tested every gaming headset we feature. We compare the build quality with other headsets while also testing the audio, battery life, and microphone performance. We also endeavour to test every feature, such as customisable RGB lighting,haptic feedbackandANC.
We update this list throughout the year, ensuring it reflects the best gaming headset options on the market at any given moment. This way, you can ensure you get the very best option for your needs and budget.
And if you want to narrow your search to a particular platform, check out ourbest PS5 headsetandbest Xbox headsetroundups. Those headsets have been explicitly tested with the named platforms.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for headphones for music playback, take a look at our selection of thebest headphones,best wireless earbudsandbest wireless headphones.
Best gaming headset at a glance
How We Test
We use every headset we test for at least a week. During that time, we’ll check it for ease of use and put it through its paces by using it in a variety of games, as well as playing music in order to get the full experience.We also check each headset’s software (if applicable) to see how easy it is to customise and set up.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Best overall gaming headset
TheSteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wirelessis a stylish gaming headset that offers immersive audio along with a host of useful extras that make it our best overall gaming headset.
The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless comes in black or a new all-white colourway, with the design a blend of smooth and weighty plastics, plush earcups and metal accents. At 337g, the headphones aren’t too heavy, while the deep earcups and suspension headband are comfortable for extended periods, offering fantastic passive noise isolation as a bonus.
The headphones benefit from Clearcast AI noise cancellation, Sonar, a built-in mixer, and a range of EQ presets for different games, music, movies and podcasts in the GG suite. Connectivity is fantastic too, with both 2.4Ghz wireless and Bluetooth available and support for a variety of platforms, including PC, PlayStation, smartphones, Mac and Nintendo Switch. There’s also multipoint support for connecting to two devices simultaneously.
The headset features swappable batteries, allowing for up to 44 hours of battery overall. Replacing the batteries is quick and easy, and you can slide them back into the accompanying base station to recharge in three hours.
Sound-wise, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is excellent. The mid-range is rich and detailed, while the robust low-end offers plenty of bass without sounding muddy or overbearing. It also provides fantastic immersion in FPS titles, allowing you to feel the boom of grenades and gunfire.
The mic performance isn’t as strong as the audio, sounding a bit thin and lacking the body and richness we’ve heard from other, cheaper headsets. Despite this, the ClearCast AI noise cancellation does a brilliant job of cancelling out distractions, such as a loud mechanical keyboard.
Reviewer:Reece Bithrey
Full Review:SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Sony Inzone Buds
Best gaming earbuds
Sony’s Inzone range launched last year and it’s a curious beast, representing the brand’s efforts to take a share in the PC peripheral market away from PlayStation. TheSony Inzone Budsare its first earbuds offering, and they’ve done a mightily good job.
We’ve always been intrigued by the idea of gaming earbuds, especially for your average gamer, and the Inzone Buds get that line of thinking too. They prioritise a comfortable fit and excellent long battery life, alongside nailing luxe features like a broad sound and wonderfully immersive active noise cancellation (ANC).
It’s really all about convenience, with 12 hours offered on a single charge and then another 12 hours offered from the charging case. Bluetooth LE connectivity, through a USB-C wireless receiver, ensures you’re solidly connected too.
Obviously, these earbuds are focused on gaming but they showcased impressive all-round audio chops in our testing. The sound was punchy and accurate and served games well with spatial audio luxury.
Reviewer:Reece BithreyFull review:Sony Inzone Buds review
HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless
Best gaming headset for battery life
TheHyperX Cloud Alpha Wirelessis a great headset for anyone that wants to game on the PC and PS5, coming with a 2.4GHz USB-A receiver, which we found remarkably simple to set up.
We thought that the headset felt properly premium, from the metal earcups to the red-accented headband. It also struck us as very stylish, lacking some flashier features like RGB lighting but having a more mature and sleek aesthetic.
In terms of audio, our reviewer noted that the headset has a big, meaty sound profile that comes with lots of volume to boot, which is ideal for gaming. Our review also mentioned how the Cloud Alpha Wireless packs a lot of nuance and detail, which also makes it an ideal choice for anyone hoping to listen to music or podcasts.
The shining feature of this headset has to be the battery life, which clocks in at over 300 hours. We noted that the battery didn’t appear to drain, with our reviewer not needing to charge the headset for the two weeks it was used. So, for anyone who’s looking for a headset that can last through the night without issue, there is no better choice than the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless.
Reviewer:Reece BithreyFull review:HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless review
AceZone A-Spire
Best eSports gaming headset
TheAceZone A-Spire, while perhaps lacking the good looks of its counterparts, offers performance that leaves a lasting impression.
At 270g, the headset emerges as a featherweight contender, delivering an unparalleled level of comfort even during multiple 8-hour workdays. Featuring a flexible leather-clad headband and velvety ear cushions, it stands as an ideal companion for those immersive gaming sessions, aligning seamlessly with the standards upheld by eSports aficionados.
The attached microphone is versatile, effortlessly conforming to various positions while maintaining stability. Noteworthy is the thoughtfully incorporated green mark, ensuring optimal alignment for crystal-clear communication – a crucial feature for the eSports-focused among us.
Connectivity options further elevate the A-Spire’s appeal, spanning USB, Bluetooth, and Aux interfaces, accommodating multiple devices for a low-latency experience.
Crucially, the audio performance is noteworthy, even if the 40mm cans are smaller than those of some competitors in our chart. They deliver impressive clarity with a dedicated app that adds an additional layer of customisation, allowing users to fine-tune the audio output to their tastes. There are also specific game profiles for popular FPS games like Apex Legends to help pick up on footsteps and improve game performance.
For those venturing into the eSports realm, the AceZone A-Spire is a reliable entry point, seamlessly blending comfort, adaptability, and superior audio performance.
Reviewer:Sarah ThwaitesFull review:AceZone A-Spire review
Corsair Virtuoso Pro
Best open-back gaming headset
TheCorsair Virtuoso Promay seem like a rather stripped-back option compared to some similarly priced alternatives given the £169.99/$199.99 price tag, but it does so in order to prioritise audio performance over all else. An aim that’s largely achieved.
Clad in a premium combination of aluminium and plastic, the Virtuoso Pro certainly feel premium, though at 338g, they’re certainly not the most lightweight cans around. That said, our reviewer found that they were comfortable enough in general use, with nice fabric padding in all the right areas to help alleviate the build-up of pressure on the head.
What you won’t find, however, is much in the way of built-in controls. You won’t find any buttons or switches on the cans or even an in-line control on the cable. These features have largely been sacrificed to deliver an open-back design, which is great for audio performance, but no so much when it comes to convenience.
Speaking of, the open-back design of the cans deliver a much wider soundstage than regular over-ear alternatives that delivered exceptional directional audio in testing, whether you’re playing the latest Call of Duty or the new Forza Motorsport. These deliver a seriously immersive sound experience with a powerful low-end, a clear and detailed mid-range and a sharp top-end, though the latter could sometimes be a little too sharp.
The attached microphone isn’t quite as impressive, however, with some notable compression and thin-sounding vocals in testing. It’s more than serviceable for quick chats with friends during gaming sessions, but streamers will likely want to look elsewhere.
Reviewer:Reece BithreyFull review:Corsair Virtuoso Pro review
Xbox Wireless Headset
Best Xbox gaming headset
Our extensive tests show that theXbox Wireless Headsetis the best gaming headset choice for anyone who owns Microsoft’s consoles. We were able to easily connect it to ourXbox Series Xwirelessly, while also using our smartphone simultaneously forDiscordchats.
We also really liked the Xbox-themed design, and found the rotating control dial allowed us to easily alter the volume without blindingly searching for small buttons. We were also impressed with the headset’s wide range of features, which includesDolby Atmosthat creates an immersive 3D audio effect.
We found the audio quality to be superb during testing, although we do recommend fiddling with the equaliser to find a soundscape to your liking, as the audio sounds a little muddy to us out of the box.
You can admittedly find plenty of other gaming headsets that have been designed with the Xbox in mind, such as theHyperX CloudX Stinger Core WirelessandCorsair HS75 XB Wireless, but Microsoft’s own headset is our favourite, mainly due to its incredible value.
Reviewer:Esat DedezadeFull review:Xbox Wireless Headset review
PlayStation Pulse Elite
Best PlayStation headset
While it might be tempting to opt for the pricierSony Inzone H9(although it’s certainly worth picking up if you jump between games on PS5 and PC), thePulse Eliteheadset offers such good value for money that it easily jumps in at the top spot for our favourite PS5 headset.
As a successor to thePlayStation Pulse 3Dthat launched alongside the PS5, the Pulse Elite is still compatible with Sony’s 3D Audio to create an immersive experience that makes it feel as if you’re hearing everything from the perspective of the character you’re playing, but there’s more to it than that.
Despite its £129.99/$149.99 price point, the Pulse Elite packs high-end planar magnetic drivers which bring out even more detail than before, making conversations feel crisp and adding tons of weight to action scenes. To see them at their best, you only need to wear the Pulse Elite during the chaotic opening segment ofMarvel’s Spider-Man 2.
There isn’t any active noise cancelling on the Pulse Elite which may be worth bearing in mind if you game in a busy household, but it’s a small issue when you consider how good the sound quality is. Plus, the comfortable padded ear cushions do a decent job of expelling a degree of external noise.
Just like thePulse Exploreearbuds, the Pulse Elite packs Sony’s new PlayStation Link technology, which allows the headset to connect to your PS5 almost instantly. Even though it requires a USB-C dongle to operate (it’s included in the box), it still works brilliantly and allows you to get straight into your desired game quickly.
As a final cherry on top, the Pulse Elite can last for up to 30-hours at a time, but if you’re ever running low then a simple 10-minute top-up can net you another two-hours of playtime. There’s even a charging hook thrown in that allows you to replenish the headset’s battery when it’s stored away.
Reviewer:Chris SmithFull review:PlayStation Pulse Elite review
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro 2023
Best microphone on a gaming headset
TheRazer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)is one of the best gaming headsets for eSports players or streamers. It features an incredible microphone that has been massively improved compared to theprevious model. It has a 9.9mm condenser microphone running a 32kHz sampling rate, which we found provided a deep and warm response, free of background noise. The arm attaching the mic is stiffer, which stopped it from gradually drifting away during gameplay so you won’t need to keep readjusting it as you play.
The headset itself uses the same Razer Triforce as many other Razer headsets. We thought that they sounded glorious; mid-ranges sang beautifully, and the audio came through surprisingly wide for closed-back ear cups. Playing around with the Synapse EQ brought about even better changes, with games likeResident Evil VillageandDoom Eternalsounding more immersive and eerie.
In terms of connectivity, the BlackShark V2 Pro charges via aUSB-C. It can be linked to devices through a USB receiver or Bluetooth, giving it much more versatility than standard wired headsets. We were able to connect it to mobile phones and theNintendo Switch, with audio sounding consistent over these devices. However, the lack of a 3.5mm audio jack was a little limiting and means that anyXbox Series X/Sgamers won’t be able to utilise this headset.
Battery life was very impressive. Razer claims that it can last for around 70 hours when connected through the 2.4Ghz receiver, and 90 hours over Bluetooth. While we did not reach these heights during testing, we felt that these quoted numbers were eminently reasonable, with the battery life drained by half after a week of use.
If you’re looking for a headset with more premium features – such ashaptic feedbackorANC– theRazer Kraken V3 HyperSensemay be a better pick, and theRazer BlackShark V2 HyperSpeedis a cheaper, pared back option. But if you’re after a quality microphone to chat with friends or build up a streaming community over platforms likeTwitch, then the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is definitely the headset for you.
Reviewer:Callum BainsFull Review:Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) review
Turtle Beach Recon 70
Best budget gaming headset
Top-notch gaming headsets don’t have to break the bank, and the Turtle Beach Recon 70 is a prime example of that. Priced at a fraction of the cost compared to some high-end options in our chart, the Recon 70 delivers the core experience with smart compromises.
Wrapped in a robust plastic finish and available in a swathe of colours to match the platform of your choice, the Recon 70 is built to endure, sporting a flexible construction and sturdy wires that won’t give in after a few weeks of use. It comes equipped with a retractable mic featuring lift-to-mute technology, a volume wheel on the cups, and a wired 3.5mm headphone jack for hassle-free connectivity.
The audio quality is nothing to sneeze at either; the headset strikes a solid balance between intense explosions, ambient noise, and dialogue lines, making it easy to discern footsteps, even in the fast-paced action of games like Overwatch 2. There’s room for improvement in the bass department, but it’s by no means a deal-breaker.
Granted, you won’t find premium features like ANC, customisable audio settings, or wireless connectivity, but given its price, the Turtle Beach Recon 70 gets the job done.
Reviewer:Josh BrownFull review:Turtle Beach Recon 70 review
Audeze Maxwell
Best for audiophiles
If you’re looking for a gaming headset with a premium build that doesn’t compromise on audio quality, theAudeze Maxwellis for you.
This high-end gaming headset delivers some of the best audio we’ve experienced from a gaming headset, including rich and detailed sound with strong bass thanks to its 90mm planar magnetic drivers.
The design is understated but durable with its subtle all-black design and metal and high-quality plastic build. The earcups are large and plush, while the suspension-style headband ensures these headphones are comfortable to wear during longer gaming sessions.
Along with physical buttons, the Audeze HQ app gives you access to a range of settings on Windows, macOS and smartphones, including EQ presets, mic sidetone levels and the game and chat audio mix.
When it comes to connectivity, you can go wireless with Bluetooth 5.3 or use the bundled USB-C receiver. There’s also the option to use a wired USB-C connection or the classic 3.5mm cable, though the exact options you get depend on which of the countless compatible devices you pair the headset with, with the list including the PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Windows, Mac, Android and iOS.
For audiophiles, the Audeze Maxwell supports a wide range of codecs, including SBC, AAC and LDAC, along with the ability to play hi-res audio up to 24-bit/192KHz. There’s also support for Dolby Atmos spatial audio with the Xbox version of the headset.
Finally, the 80-hour claimed battery life makes the Maxwell one of the best gaming headsets in its price category, with fast charging applying 30 hours of listening from a 20-minute charge.
Reviewer:Reece Bithrey
Full Review:Audeze Maxwell
Logitech G Astro A50 X
Best multiplatform headset
If you regularly move between different consoles and platforms, theLogitech G Astro A50 Xis our number one recommendation.
This headset might be on the pricier side, but for platform switching its a dream with Logitech’s PlaySync technology letting you do so at the press of a button. The feature works via the included base station, which can be connected to two consoles, a PC and a Bluetooth device all simultaneously. These you can easily cycle through using the aforementioned button on the headphones.
The Astro A50 X looks almost identical to the Astro A50 that launched in 2019 with the same large ear cups, thick padding and flip-down microphone. The construction is fully plastic aside from the metal stems, but its plenty tough and durable. We found it to be remarkably comfortable on top of this, with two breathable cushions covering the ear cups and a snug, but pinch-free fit.
The audio quality is superb and matches the likes of theSteelSeries Arctis Nova Proin terms of detail. The 40mm drivers offer tremendous bass and there’s a lot of clarity to the mix. Spatial audio is also precise, with the feature being ideal when paired with FPS titles.
The Logitech G app allows you to set EQ parameters – of which the microphone has its own. This means you can ensure your voice sounds rich and clear to those on the other end. We found the mic to be robust, holding its own against theRazer BlackShark V2 Pro, though the mic arm can slip away from your face during longer sessions.
There’s also no noise cancellation, which is something you might want to consider for the most immersive listening experience. However, if you find yourself regularly switching between different platforms, we’d highly recommend the Logitech G Astro A50 X.
Reviewer:Callum Bains
Full Review:Logitech G Astro A50 X
We also considered…
The ultimate multiplatform gaming headset
A Sony headset for PC gamers
A wired gaming headset available in two flavours
One of the best gaming headsets you can buy for Xbox
Razer has produced yet another brilliant gaming headset with the V2 Pro
A mid-priced headset with some advanced features
We’ve reviewed
FAQs
Headphones with a 7.1 surround sound can make audio seem as if it’s coming from a specific location, which is helpful to determine where your enemies are lurking. This feature is often only available on PC.
Some gaming headsets can be used for work, but be mindful that many have garish designs and can often see lots of sound leakage.
The Nintendo Switch and the Switch OLED now have Bluetooth support, so can be used with headsets that have a 3.5mm audio jack or Bluetooth.
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Comparison specifications
After graduating with an MA in History from University College London and cutting his teeth for several years as a journalist in the film and TV industries, Tom joined the Trusted Reviews team as a Co…
Founded in 2003, Trusted Reviews exists to give our readers thorough, unbiased and independent advice on what to buy.
Today, we have millions of users a month from around the world, and assess more than 1,000 products a year.
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Why trust our journalism?
Founded in 2003, Trusted Reviews exists to give our readers thorough, unbiased and independent advice on what to buy.
Today, we have millions of users a month from around the world, and assess more than 1,000 products a year.
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
