Last Updated on March 3, 2020 by Jake
If you are an online gamer, then you know you need the best gaming headset to communicate and strategize with your teammates and guild as well as exchange friendly banter with your online opponent. If not, your gaming experience will be subpar.
There are many options out there, from the basic headset that comes with your console to the cheap $30 headset you can find in most shops to expensive $300 headsets with wireless connections, surround sound and sound mixers, and other impressive features.
In this article, we go through the best gaming headsets with prices ranging from $60 to $300. We cover well-made budget-priced headsets that offer clear audio to more expensive headsets with extra features such as haptic feedback and 50mm neodymium drivers.
Table of Contents
In a Rush? Here’s Our Top Picks:
| Image | Title | Buy |
|---|---|---|
 | Turtle Beach Elite Atlas Pro Performance PC Gaming Headset | Check Price on Amazon |
 | SteelSeries Arctis 7 - Lossless Wireless Gaming Headset with DTS Headphone:X v2.0 Surround - For PC and PlayStation 4 - Black | Check Price on Amazon |
 | HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset - Dual Chamber Drivers - Award Winning Comfort - Durable Aluminum Frame - Detachable Microphone - Works with PC, PS4, PS4 PRO, Xbox One, Xbox One S (HX-HSCA-RD/AM) | Check Price on Amazon |
 | ASTRO Gaming A10 Gaming Headset - Blue - PlayStation 4 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Logitech G433 7.1 Wired Gaming Headset with DTS Headphone: X 7.1 Surround for PC, PS4, PS4 PRO, Xbox One, Xbox One S, Nintendo Switch – Triple Black | Check Price on Amazon |
 | HyperX Cloud Revolver S - Gaming Headset with Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound - Steel Frame - Signature Memory Foam - Premium Leatherette - Detachable Noise-Cancellation Microphone | Check Price on Amazon |
 | SteelSeries Arctis Pro + GameDAC Wired Gaming Headset - Certified Hi-Res Audio - Dedicated DAC and Amp - for PS4 and PC | Check Price on Amazon |
 | ASTRO Gaming A50 Wireless Dolby Gaming Headset - Black/Green - Xbox One and Future Console, PC | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Razer Nari Ultimate Wireless 7.1 Surround Sound Gaming Headset: THX Audio & Haptic Feedback - Auto-Adjust Headband - Chroma RGB - Retractable Mic - For PC, PS4 - Classic Black | Check Price on Amazon |
 | ASTRO Gaming A20 Wireless Headset, Black/Blue - PlayStation 4 | Check Price on Amazon |
What to Look For in a Gaming Headset
Wireless or Wired
Both wireless and wired headsets have their advantages and disadvantages. The main plus of wireless headset is maneuverability. You can sit on your couch with your game console several feet away from you and game with no issues. Wireless headsets are usually more expensive and usually require an adapter that plugs into your PC or console.
Most connect via a USB adapter that transmits on a 2.4 to 5.4 GHz bandwidth. These trademarked wireless connections offer better audio clarity and quality than Bluetooth connections. Also not very console offer Bluetooth connections (for instance, the original Xbox One doesn’t offer Bluetooth connection). With that said, many wireless headsets offer Bluetooth connectivity.
While some wireless headset can charge via USB connection, some require a charging base. Also, some wireless headsets have a 3.5mm jack port where you can attach a detachable cable and use it as you will a wired headset. Lastly, since they are wireless, they need a battery. The battery life will dictate just how long you can play before you need to charge the headset again.
Most wired gaming headset has both USB audio support and an analog 3.5mm connector. All you need to do is plug them into any 3.5mm port. They work well with PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One models (including those with Xbox One stereo headset adapters), Nintendo Switch, and other handheld gaming devices. Some wired headsets also provide optical audio connectivity.
Surround Sound
Most high-end headsets use a 40mm/50mm driver for each ear. This allows for high-quality stereo sound. Many headset models also offer some type of simulated surround sound effect usually using Digital Theater Systems (DTS) and Dolby sound technologies. Although this may not be as impressive as true surround sound, they allow for an immersive gameplay.
Speakers and Microphones
The speakers and microphones on the best gaming headsets provide clear sounds and audio for both the gamer and his teammates. Some offer detachable microphones, while others offer retractable ones. When it comes to gaming, the quality of the mic depends on how clear your voice is during voice chat. A good gaming mic also provides noise-canceling capabilities that ensure background noises are removed.
The right headset gives you an advantage during gameplay; the clarity of the sounds produced allows you to hear even the faintest sounds. You can tell exactly where every enemy footstep and bullet is coming from.
You can hear every punch, kick, sword slice, gunshot, and explosion with clarity and no distortion. And it is easy to tell all the different sounds apart.
Best Gaming Headset Reviews
Turtle Beach Elite Atlas Pro
- Durable Comfort: A sleek metal headband with a suspended pad and swappable memory foam ear cushions ensure unmatched comfort
- Glasses Friendly: Turtle Beach's Unique Prospects Comfort-driven design removes pressure on your glasses while you play
- Aero fit Ear Cushions: Revolutionary material technologies combine to keep your ears comfortable while also blocking out external noise and improving bass response
- Pro Gaming Mic with Truspeak Technology: Ensure your voice is always heard loud and clear with Turtle Beach's professional quality mic
- Multiplatform Capability: Designed for PC gaming and also works with Xbox One, PS4, Nintendo Switch and mobile devices
The Turtle Beach Elite Atlas Pro is probably the best gaming headset under $100. The audio provides crystal clear sound of whatever is happening around you in gameplay, although it isn’t 7.1 surround sound. Moreover, the noise canceling TruSpeak mic works wonderfully during gameplay – eliminating all background noise.
The ear cups are also detachable; this means you can easily replace them. The Turtle Beach Elite Atlas provides gamers and gameplay broadcaster with exactly what is needed – nothing more, nothing less.
Wireless/Wired – Wired
Connection – 3.5mm analog, USB audio support, PC splitter option
Audio – Stereo
Microphone- Detachable TruSpeak mic, noise cancelling
Other features – 50mm “Nanoclear” neodymium magnets, 20 Hz–20 kHz freq. response
Pros
- Voice chat and in-game sound quality is exceptional.
- Durable and reliable.
- Professional looking design.
Cons
- Short cable.
- Sound range is average at best.
SteelSeries Arctis 7
- Designed for gaming, the 2.4 grams connection delivers rock solid, lossless wireless audio with ultra-low latency and zero interference
- Widely recognized as the best mic in gaming, the discord certified clear cast microphone delivers studio quality voice clarity and background noise cancellation
- Sound is your competitive advantage with the s1 speaker drivers, engineered to produce ultra-low distortion audio so you hear every detail Effective Range: 12 m / 40 ft
- Immerse yourself in 360 degrees of precision audio with next generation DTS headphone: x v2.0 7.1 surround sound (pc only)
- 24 hour battery life gives you enough continuous play for even your longest gaming sessions; Compatible only with Pc, Mac, PS, Switch and Mobile; Headphone sensitivity: 98 dB
With most wireless headsets, the audio can be muddling at times and that can mess with your gameplay. Well, good news to all wireless headset fans, the SteelSeries Arctis 7 has none of those problems. The sound produced by the speakers is just as clear as the best-wired headset in its price range.
And with a 20-hour battery life, you can play all day without worrying about running out of juice. One little drawback to this great product is the mic which can sound a little muffled.
Wireless/Wired – Wireless via a 2.4 GHz USB connection (headset has a 20-hour battery life)
Connection – 3.5mm analog, Wireless via USB
Audio – Dolby Digital 7.1 surround sound
Microphone- Retractable mic, noise canceling
Other features – 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz, 40mm neodymium drivers
Pros
- Extraordinarily long battery life.
- Great value for the price.
Cons
- Mic is middling.
- Headband becomes loose over time.
HyperX Cloud Alpha
- Frequency response 15Hz–25,000 H.Headphones fit type:Over-Ear.The versatile Cloud Alpha is designed to work on PC, PS4, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and other platforms with a 3.5mm port.
- HyperX Dual Chamber Drivers for more distinction and less distortion
- Signature award winning HyperX comfort
- Durable aluminum frame with expanded headband
- Detachable braided cable with convenient in line audio control
The dual chamber neodymium drivers means the HyperX Cloud Alpha offers excellent sound quality and fewer distortions at an affordable price. The build of this midrange gaming headset is solid and comfortable. And while It may not offer Dolby 7.1 surround sound, its 2.1 channels allows for a sound which is polished and refined.
This headset may be bass heavy, but this doesn’t interfere with the clarity of other sounds. What more can we add? The HyoerX Cloud Alpha is an improvement on the Cloud II.
Wireless/Wired –Wired
Connection – 3.5mm analog
Audio – 2.1 channel system
Microphone- Detachable mic, noise canceling
Other features – 13 Hz – 27,000 Hz freq. response, in-line cable controls, 50mm dual chamber neodymium driver
Pros
- Offers good value for money.
- Well-balanced and comfortable.
Cons
- Cable isn’t removable.
Astro A10
- Durability: The A10 Headset features durable headband anodized aluminum wrapped in a damage resistant polycarbonate blend so your headset will withstand wins, losses, and everything in between
- Comfort: Extended comfort memory foam ear-cushions keep you from fatigue so you can play as long as you want in complete comfort
- Communication: With the omnidirectional mic featuring flip-up mute functionality and in-line Volume Control, you and your teammates will always hear each other clearly and accurately
- Sound Quality: Tuned for Gaming, the A10 features immersive and accurate audio the way sound developers intended. Low latency and precise voice communication mean you're always in sync
- Compatibility: PS5, PC/MAC, XBOX SERIES X|S, NINTENDO SWITCH, VR, STREAMING
At number 3 on our list is the Astro A10. This budget-priced gaming headset is geared towards people who want a low-priced yet capable headset. The audio is clear without distortions even at high volumes unlike other gaming headsets in its price range.
The mic provides quality voice chat experience during gameplay. If you get the MixAmp M60 controller adapter for an extra $40, you will gain extra functionalities such as mic monitoring and extra controls. With a price of just under $60 (when this review was written), the Astro A10 gives you great value for your money.
Wireless/Wired – Wired
Connection – 3.5mm analog
Audio – Stereo
Microphone- Non-detachable, flip-to-mute functionality
Other features – 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz freq. response, 40mm neodymium drivers
Pros
- Reliable and well-constructed.
- Good quality sound.
- MixAmp M60 allows gamers to perfectly mix game-to-voice communication.
Cons
- Lack of surround sound.
- Lacks in extra functionality.
Logitech G433 Gaming Headset
- Extremely lightweight for maximum comfort. Frequency response: 20Hz - 20KHz.Frequency Response: 100Hz-10 KHz
- Hydrophobic, stain-resistant fabric shell and comes with two sets of ear pads – sports mesh and microfiber
- Maximum audio performance with DTS Headphone: X 7.1 surround sound and Pro-G drivers for dynamic range
- Detachable boom mic and two audio cables included to work with PC, Mac, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and mobile
- Removable boom mic has micro-pop filter to reduce environmental noises and deliver clear communications
The Logitech G433 Gaming Headset is a simple headphone with no fancy features. It has no special audio features such as HiRes audio. However, it is a satisfying headset, the sound is superb, and the mic is surprisingly good. On the other hand, it’s bass-heavy and as already mentioned – lacking in features. In all, it gets the job done.
Wireless/Wired –Wired
Connection – 3.5mm analog
Audio – Stereo
Microphone- Detachable mic, noise canceling
Other features – 20 Hz – 20 KHz freq. response, “Hybrid mesh Pro-G” neodymium drivers
Pros
- Nice Design.
- Good price.
- Lightweight.
Cons
- Lacking in features.
- Bass-heavy.
HyperX Cloud Revolver S
- Studio grade sound stage
- Signature HyperX memory foam with premium leatherette
- Durable steel frame; TeamSpeak and Discord certified noise cancelling mic
- Detachable noise cancellation microphone. Weight with mic: 376 gram
- Next generation directional 50 millimeter drivers
Considering the price at hand, one might wonder if the HyperX Cloud Revolver S is worth it. Well, it is.
The clarity of sound provided as well as its amazing 7.1-channel surround sound will take your gaming experience to the next level. It has an analog 3.5 mm plug as well as USB audio support. On the other hand, it doesn’t offer wireless connectivity in an age where everything is wireless.
Wireless/Wired – Wired
Connectivity to console – 3.5 mm analog connector, USB audio support
Audio – Dolby Digital 7.1 surround sound
Microphone- Detachable mic, noise canceling
Other features – 12 Hz – 28,000 Hz freq. response, 50mm dual chamber neodymium drivers
Pros
- Provides amazing surround sound experiences.
- Comfortable to have on for extended periods of time.
Cons
- On the pricer end of the spectrum.
- Long cable can be cumbersome depending on your gaming setup.
- Awkward mic position.
SteelSeries Arctis Pro
- Optimal PS5 compatibility requires user to change settings on Sony PS5 – disable Sony 3D Audio and then increase default volume to 100%
- Gaming's first certified Hi-Res audio system pairs premium speaker drivers with next-generation DTS surround sound to produce incredibly accurate positional cues
- Widely recognized as the best mic in gaming, Arctis ClearCast bidirectional microphone delivers studio quality voice clarity and background noise cancellation
- Premium adjustable ski goggle suspension headband distributes weight evenly, for maximum comfort during extended gaming sessions
- Intuitive OLED menu and on-ear ChatMix dial allow for on-the-fly adjustments of game audio, voice settings, and more
This headphone isn’t good for just gaming, it’s also great for listening to music (both lossless and compressed), and watching videos both on PC and TV. The Game DAC, which stands for digital-to-analog converter, allows the SteelSeries Arctis Pro to deliver high-resolution audio at a 96-kHz/24-bit rate.
The main drawbacks of this brilliant headset are its flimsy short cables and the need for an adapter if you plan to use it with a phone.
Wireless/Wired –Wired
Connection – Optical Audio, USB audio support, 3.5mm analog
Audio – HiRes 96-kHz/24-bit audio
Microphone- bi-directional, noise canceling
Other features – 10 Hz – 40,000 Hz freq. response, 40mm neodymium drivers
Pros
- Offers high-resolution audio.
- Well-made.
Cons
- Expensive.
- Short cables mean you can’t sit far from the console.
Astro A50
- Pro Audio Quality
- Superior Fit & Finish
- Precision Microphone
- 5GHz Wireless Technology
- Dolby Headphone 7.1 Surround Sound
The Astro A50 is a Wireless headset with a charging cradle. The Wireless function means you don’t have to worry about any wire getting in the way.
That isn’t its only selling point. This headset sounds fantastic, and it’s easy on the eye. It works with the Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and PC. The only drawback is its price. In all, this headphone is dependable and versatile.
Wireless/Wired – Wireless (charges using a base station)
Connection – Wireless, Optical Audio, USB audio support
Audio – Dolby Digital 7.1 surround sound
Microphone- Uni-directional mic, noise canceling
Other features – 10 Hz – 20,000 Hz freq. response, 40mm neodymium drivers
Pros
- Great sound quality and 7.1 surround sound.
- Nice design.
Cons
- Expensive.
Razer Nari Ultimate
- Frequency Response 20 Hz – 20 kHz.Headphones fit type:On-Ear.Specific uses for product : personal, gaming, business.Does it contain liquid?:No
- The NPD Group, U.S. Retail Tracking Service, Keyboards, Mice, PC Headset/Pc Microphone, Gaming Designed, based on dollar sales, 2017-2021
- Razer Hypersense Haptic Feedback for Unparalleled Immersion: Provides industry-leading audio realism for intense, in-game immersion and positional accuracy coupled with THX Spatial 7.1 surround sound
- Lightweight & Auto-Adjusting Headband for Extended Gaming Sessions: The Nari Ultimate adapts to the shape of the user's head for convenient comfort
- Retractable Mic with Audio Adjustment: Tune game/chat balance for the perfect mix of game audio and team communication; also includes a volume adjustment wheel and mic mute button directly on the headset
Razer Nari Ultimate is haptic enabled. The haptic feedback is designed to give gamers a more immersive gaming experience and provide valuable feedbacks such as warn you when you’re being shot at or when your digital car goes off-road.
The haptic feedback works great and is obviously the main selling point. What about the audio? Well, the sound quality is right up there with the best, and the build is comfy. It may be pricey for some but it offers a new and refreshing take on gaming headsets.
Wireless/Wired – Wireless via a 2.4 GHz USB connection (headset has an 8-hour battery life)
Connection – 3.5mm 4-pole jack, wireless via USB,
Audio – Stereo
Microphone- Retractable mic, uni-directional
Other features – 50mm neodymium drivers, 20 Hz – 20 kHz freq. response
Pros
- Durable.
- Long battery life.
Cons
- Haptic feedback isn’t for everyone.
- Pricey.
Astro A20
- Experience audio exactly as developers intended with astro audio, delivering amplified stereo sound and 40mm driver audio fidelity tuned specifically for a competitive edge
- Durable construction forged in premium, damage resistant materials gives you a wireless headset created to withstand wins, losses, and everything in between
- With upto 15+ hours of battery life, you can game free knowing your gear can keep up with you on marathon gaming sessions
- Flexible, lightweight materials with cloth ear cushions and headband means you never have to worry about headset fatigue shutting your game down before you're ready
- The astro command center software allows you to tune every input and output parameter
If you want a well-made affordable headset that works for online gaming, look no further than the Astro A20. It may not have surround sound, but its stereo sound is reliable and performs well for a wireless headset. It also has a pleasingly long battery life of 15 hours, which you charge using a charging dock. It is solid with no fuss.
Wireless/Wired – Wireless via a 5.8 GHz radio (has a 15-hour battery life)
Connection – USB 2.0, Optical cable
Audio – Stereo
Microphone- Pull-down mic, flip-to-mute (automatically mutes when you pull the mic up)
Other features – 20 Hz – 20 kHz freq. response, 40mm neodymium drivers
Pros
- Comfortable and well built.
- Great audio although not as immersive as 7.1 surround sound.
- Mic works well.
Cons
- Lack of 3.5mm jack limits its usage to Xbox One and PC.
Best Gaming Headset – Wrap Up
There you have it. These are the top 10 best gaming headset reviews on the market today. Which one you choose depends on your preferences. Factors to consider include – price, surround sound capability, wireless or wired, quality of sound produced, drivers, and mic capabilities.
Be sure to check out our gaming mouse and gaming desk reviews to complete your set up. Or if you prefer ear buds, check out our post on the best gaming earbuds!
Last update on 2022-06-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API