Reviews Edward Collins

Best gaming headset 2024 for PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S and Switch

A good pair of headphones is essential for gaming, especially in competitive shooters like Counter-Strike, Call of Duty, and Fortnite. The ability to hear every subtle sound can mean the difference between victory and defeat. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best gaming headsets available in 2024, offering options across various price points and platforms, including PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Switch.

Best Wireless Gaming Headset: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless stands out as the top choice for wireless gaming headsets. Priced at around £299/$330, it offers exceptional sound quality, comfort, and compatibility with multiple systems. This headset features a base station that enables quick switching between devices and includes Bluetooth connectivity and active noise cancellation (ANC). The design includes a fabric suspension headband that is comfortable for long gaming sessions and adjustable for various head sizes.

Sound quality is impressive, with clear bass, treble, and mids, making it ideal for immersive gaming experiences. The wired version also benefits from a high-end DAC for even better audio quality, while the built-in mic performs well, especially when paired with the AI noise-canceling feature on PC.

Best Wired Gaming Headset: Razer Blackshark V2X

For those who prefer a wired option, the Razer Blackshark V2X is our top recommendation. Priced at approximately £50/$50, it boasts a wide soundstage and excellent audio fidelity, thanks to its newly designed 50mm drivers. The headset is lightweight and comfortable, featuring memory foam ear pads, making it suitable for extended gaming sessions.

With a removable microphone and easy-to-use controls, the Blackshark V2X is perfect for competitive gaming and streaming. While it lacks RGB lighting, its sleek design ensures that it fits well in any setup.

Runner-Up Best Wireless Gaming Headset: Corsair HS80 Max

The Corsair HS80 Max is another excellent choice for wireless gaming, priced at about £149/$100. This headset offers a comfortable fit with soft ear cups, long battery life (up to 65 hours), and a high-quality microphone. It connects easily to PC and PS5 and features customizable sound settings through Corsair’s iCUE software.

While it provides a neutral sound profile, some users may find the bass slightly underwhelming. However, it excels in sound isolation and imaging, making it an impressive choice for competitive gaming.

Runner-Up Best Wired Gaming Headset: Epos H3 Hybrid

The Epos H3 Hybrid is a versatile wired headset priced at around £50/$60, offering excellent audio quality and a comfortable design. This headset supports Bluetooth, USB, and 3.5mm connections, allowing users to enjoy both wired and wireless experiences simultaneously.

With a robust microphone and a user-friendly earcup volume dial, the Epos H3 Hybrid is suitable for various gaming scenarios, making it a great option for both casual and competitive gamers.

Best PS5 Headset: Logitech G Pro X Wireless

The Logitech G Pro X Wireless is our top recommendation for PS5 gamers, available for about £128/$115. This headset utilizes a 2.4GHz USB dongle for a stable connection and features excellent build quality with options for velour or memory foam ear pads.

With its 50mm drivers and support for surround sound, the G Pro X Wireless enhances your gaming experience by highlighting essential audio cues. The microphone quality is impressive, and the battery life lasts around 20 hours, making it a great choice for extended gaming sessions.

Best Xbox Series X/S Headset: Xbox Wireless Headset

The official Xbox Wireless Headset, priced at around £95/$100, is the best choice for Xbox Series X and S gamers. It features a lightweight design, comfortable fit, and intuitive controls. The headset connects directly to the Xbox without the need for a dongle and supports simultaneous Bluetooth connections, allowing users to listen to music or communicate while gaming.

The sound quality is solid, featuring customizable EQ settings and multiple surround sound modes for an immersive experience.

Best Value Gaming Headset: SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5X

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5X is an excellent value gaming headset, priced at approximately £129/$112. This multi-platform headset supports PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, and PC. It features an easy-to-use app that provides access to numerous audio presets tailored for different games and genres.

While the sound quality is good, it may not be as rich as more premium options. Nevertheless, the Nova 5X offers comfort, solid build quality, and simulated surround sound, making it a fantastic choice for gamers on a budget.

Best Cheap Gaming Headset: Astro A10 Gen 2

The Astro A10 Gen 2 is an impressive entry-level headset priced at around £40/$53. This wired headset offers a lightweight design, universal compatibility, and decent sound quality. While it features smaller drivers, it maintains a neutral sound profile that is beneficial for competitive gaming.

The A10 Gen 2 includes a flip-to-mute microphone and an inline volume control, making it a practical choice for gamers looking for affordability without sacrificing performance.

Best Planar Magnetic Headset: Audeze Maxwell

For audiophiles, the Audeze Maxwell is the best planar magnetic headset available, priced at about £319/$296. It offers low-latency wireless and Bluetooth connectivity, along with exceptional sound quality thanks to its 90mm planar drivers. The Maxwell delivers a slightly v-shaped sound profile, providing bright treble and robust bass, making it suitable for both gaming and critical listening.

While the comfort may not match some competitors due to its weight, the audio quality and build are top-notch, making it a worthwhile investment for serious gamers.

Best Open-Back Gaming Headphones: Sineaptic SE-1

The Sineaptic SE-1 is the top open-back gaming headphone, priced at £157/$199. These headphones utilize a dual ribbon driver, offering detailed and dynamic sound reproduction. While they lack isolation due to their open-back design, they provide a unique listening experience.

The SE-1 is best suited for gaming and critical listening in quieter environments, making it an intriguing option for those who prioritize sound quality over noise isolation.

Best In-Ear Gaming Headphones: Sony Inzone Buds

Lastly, the Sony Inzone Buds WF-G700N are the best in-ear gaming headphones, priced at around £169/$178. They feature a USB-C dongle for low-latency 2.4GHz connectivity, making them ideal for competitive gaming. The sound quality is impressive, with a well-balanced audio profile and effective noise cancellation.

Although they are a bit pricier than typical in-ear options, the Inzone Buds provide comfort, stable connectivity, and good battery life, making them a great choice for gamers seeking portability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth using 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound?

Using virtual surround sound can enhance immersion in games or movies, but for competitive gaming, it may hinder your ability to hear important audio cues. Opting for headphones with a wider audio stage is often more beneficial.

Should I get wireless headphones?

Wireless headphones offer freedom of movement, but they require regular charging. If you prefer mobility while gaming, wireless options are ideal. Otherwise, wired headphones may provide a more reliable experience.

What brands should I consider?

Brands like HyperX, SteelSeries, Razer, Logitech, Turtle Beach, and Astro are well-regarded for their gaming headsets. Always check reviews for specific models to ensure quality.