Best PC gaming headset 2024: 10 options from casual to esports-grade

If you’re on the hunt for the best PC gaming headsets in 2024, look no further. We’ve compiled a diverse selection that caters to every type of gamer, from casual players to serious esports competitors. This list includes both wired and wireless options across various price points, so you’ll find something that fits your needs and budget.

Whether you’re gearing up for intense matches in Counter-Strike 2 or just enjoying some casual gaming sessions, this guide will help you make an informed decision. Many of these headsets are compatible with consoles like the Xbox Series X/S and PS5, making them versatile choices for any gamer.

Best PC Gaming Headsets 2024

1. Razer Blackshark V2 X: the best value option
2. Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed: the best overall but expensive
3. Logitech G335 / G435 Lightspeed: cheap, comfy, great
4. Audeze Maxwell: big, expensive, phenomenal
5. Acezone A-Spire / A-Rise: premium esports headsets with ANC
6. HyperX Cloud 3 Wireless: a long-endurance wireless headset
7. Razer Kraken V4: the best RGB gaming headset
8. Turtle Beach Recon 500: great value, multiple colours
9. Roccat Syn Max Air: excellent features, some challenges
10. Audeze LCD-GX: ultra-premium excellence

For additional options, check out our section titled Best of the Rest at the end of the article for more recommendations.

1. Razer Blackshark V2 X

The Razer Blackshark V2 X is our top pick for a wired headset, offering exceptional sound quality at an affordable price of around £39/$50. With large 50mm drivers, it delivers a wide soundstage and excellent imaging, ideal for both gaming and music.

This headset features a well-sealed design to block out background noise, making it great for focused gaming sessions. The memory foam ear pads provide comfort for extended use, and it weighs only 240g. It comes with both dual and single 3.5mm connectivity options and a removable microphone that performs well for in-game communication.

2. Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed

The Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed is a premium wireless headset priced at £249/$249. It boasts low-latency 2.4GHz connectivity and is designed for comfort, featuring both velour and leatherette ear pads. With 50mm graphene drivers, it provides detailed sound with a slight emphasis on mid frequencies, perfect for detecting footsteps in competitive games.

This headset offers multiple connectivity options, including Bluetooth and a wired connection for consoles. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 50 hours, and Logitech’s G Hub software allows for extensive customization.

3. Logitech G335 / G435 Lightspeed

The Logitech G335 and G435 Lightspeed are lightweight options priced at £45/$50 and £50/$50, respectively. Both headsets offer comfortable fits and decent sound quality, making them excellent choices for casual gaming.

The G335 is wired with a 3.5mm connection, while the G435 is wireless and supports Bluetooth, providing versatility for different gaming setups. Both models feature a flip-to-mute microphone and come in various colors.

4. Audeze Maxwell

The Audeze Maxwell is a high-end wireless headset available for about £319/$299. Known for its planar magnetic drivers, it offers exceptional sound clarity and a wide soundstage. The Maxwell is compatible with both PS5 and Xbox and connects via 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth, or 3.5mm, ensuring versatility across devices.

Its robust construction and comfortable design make it suitable for long gaming sessions, and it boasts a battery life of up to 80 hours.

5. Acezone A-Spire / A-Rise

The Acezone A-Spire offers a unique feature set, combining active noise cancellation with a premium-grade esports design, priced at £199/$320. This headset excels in competitive gaming, providing enhanced mid frequencies for better enemy detection.

It also features a detachable microphone and is available in wired and Bluetooth configurations. The A-Rise variant enhances passive noise isolation and includes thicker ear cushions for even better sound isolation, though it comes at a higher price of £699/$749.

6. HyperX Cloud 3 Wireless

The HyperX Cloud 3 Wireless is a solid choice for players who dislike frequent recharging, boasting an impressive 120-hour battery life. Priced at £145/$115, it features a lightweight and durable design that echoes the comfort of the popular Cloud II model.

This headset supports DTS Headphone:X for simulated surround sound and includes an intuitive app for customization. Its sound profile is neutral, making it suitable for competitive and casual gaming alike.

7. Razer Kraken V4

The Razer Kraken V4 is a visually striking wireless headset priced at £179/$180. It features a sleek design, RGB lighting, and a comfortable fit. The headset includes Razer’s Triforce drivers, providing a balanced audio experience, and is compatible with various platforms, including PC and consoles.

While it may not excel in mic quality compared to other models, it still delivers a satisfying sound experience for multiplayer and single-player games.

8. Turtle Beach Recon 500

The Turtle Beach Recon 500 is a great value wired headset priced at £52/$80. Its lightweight design and dual 60mm drivers provide excellent sound quality, making it ideal for identifying enemy positions in games like Apex Legends.

The detachable microphone performs well, and the headset’s 3.5mm connection ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices.

9. Roccat Syn Max Air

The Roccat Syn Max Air is a feature-rich headset that retails for £146/$139. It incorporates comfortable athletic fabric ear cushions and a charging dock for convenience. While its sound profile is bass-heavy, it can be adjusted via software to suit your preferences.

However, its long pairing time and loud power-on chimes may be drawbacks for some users.

10. Audeze LCD-GX

The Audeze LCD-GX is an ultra-premium headset priced at £899/$899. It features open-back planar magnetic drivers that deliver exceptional audio quality. While it lacks gaming-specific features, its sound performance remains unmatched, making it a fantastic choice for both gaming and critical listening.

The headset is wired, with a simple in-line microphone that converts it into a capable gaming headset.

Best of the Rest: More PC Gaming Headset Recommendations

While we’ve highlighted ten exceptional headsets, there are many others worth considering. Below are a few additional options that may suit your needs:

Urbanista Seoul: These Bluetooth in-ears are comfortable and portable, making them suitable for casual gaming on the go.

Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X: These open-back headphones offer a neutral sound signature ideal for audiophiles, although they do lack a microphone.

Audio-Technica ATH-GL3: This headset is available in both closed-back and open-back versions, with a focus on sound quality and repairability.

Rode NTH-100: A closed-back design with a warmer sound profile, suitable for gaming when paired with a separate microphone.

Epos H3: This headset offers great sound quality and comfort at a competitive price, making it a solid choice for gamers.

Turtle Beach Recon 70: A budget-friendly option that delivers decent sound quality and comfort for casual gamers.

The Best PC Gaming Audio Accessories

If you’re looking to enhance your audio experience further, consider the Helm DB12 AAAMP. This 3.5mm amplifier boosts headphone performance significantly, adding depth and clarity to your audio. Priced at £150, it provides a remarkable improvement, especially when paired with high-quality headphones.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did you make this list?

We tested various headsets in real gaming scenarios, focusing on performance in both competitive and casual settings. Our recommendations are based on extensive hands-on experience with each product.

Is it worth using 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound?

While virtual surround sound can enhance immersion, it may not provide a competitive advantage. Opt for headsets with a wider audio stage for better directional audio cues.

Should I get wireless headphones?

Wireless headphones offer freedom of movement but require regular recharging. If you prefer mobility, they are a good choice; otherwise, wired options may be more reliable.

What brands should I consider?

Brands like HyperX, SteelSeries, Razer, Logitech, and Turtle Beach have produced both exceptional and subpar headsets. It’s crucial to research specific models rather than relying solely on brand reputation.

If I have the choice of Xbox or PlayStation headphones for PC, which should I choose?

Both Xbox and PlayStation headsets are generally compatible with PC. However, if you have an Xbox console, consider the Xbox Wireless Adapter for better connectivity options.

How can I improve the sound of my existing headphones?

Consider turning off audio enhancements and using a dedicated DAC for better sound quality. High-quality amplifiers can also enhance your headphone performance significantly.

What other outlets are worth reading?

For more in-depth reviews and comparisons, consider checking trusted outlets dedicated to audio equipment and gaming peripherals.

What about speakers?

Speakers can provide a great audio experience in your own space, but having a good pair of headphones is essential for shared environments or late-night gaming sessions.