If you’re diving into the world of gaming, you know that the right audio experience can be the difference between victory and defeat. Choosing the best gaming headset can be overwhelming with so many options available, much like selecting the perfect gaming mouse or keyboard. When searching for your ideal headset, consider key factors such as budget, sound quality, comfort, and the features that matter most to you. Personal recommendations from those who've experienced these headsets firsthand can guide you to the perfect fit.
With years of reviewing headphones and gaming headsets, I've honed my expertise to bring you the most comprehensive recommendations. Each headset I've chosen is evaluated not just on its overall performance but on its standout features within its category. From budget-friendly options like the HyperX Cloud III to high-end marvels like the Audeze Maxwell, I've also considered more advanced features such as virtual surround sound, active noise cancellation, and customizable EQ profiles in models like the JBL Quantum One, Turtle Beach Stealth Pro, and Logitech G Pro X 2.
TL;DR: These Are the Best Gaming Headsets:
------------------------------------------
Our Top Pick### SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
29See it at AmazonSee it at Target
### HyperX Cloud III
8See it at Amazon
### Audeze Maxwell
15See it at Amazon
### Turtle Beach Atlas Air
4See it at Amazon
### Turtle Beach Stealth 500
4See it at Amazon
### Beyerdynamic MMX 300 Pro
5See it at Amazon
### SennheiserHD 620S
4See it at Amazon
### JBL Quantum One
3See it at Amazon
### LogitechG Pro X 2
6See it at Amazon
### Turtle Beach Stealth Pro
2See it at Amazon
### RazerHammerhead Pro HyperSpeed
6See it at Amazon
This guide offers a detailed look at the best options across various categories, highlighting headsets that excel in specific areas. While there are numerous excellent headsets beyond my recommendations, these are the ones I can confidently endorse based on extensive testing by my colleagues and myself. As new models emerge, I'll continue to update my picks, so keep checking back for the latest insights on gaming headsets.
*This guide contains contributions by Danielle Abraham and Adam Matthew.*
### SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Images
20 Images
1. SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Best Gaming Headset
Our Top Pick### SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
29Multiple connectivity options, including simultaneous listening on different devices, a hot-swappable battery, excellent sound, and hybrid active noise canceling make this a hard-to-top headset. See it at AmazonSee it at Target
Product Specifications:
- Connectivity: 2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth, wired
- Drivers: 40mm Neodymium
- Battery life: 18-22 hours (per battery)
- Weight: 338g
**Pros:**
- Fully featured with ANC, base station, etc - Swappable battery system is innovative - Fantastic sound quality**Cons:**
- ANC could be betterIt's hard not to fall in love with the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless. You get all the great features of the previous SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless, enhanced with new technology like active noise cancellation and improved audio quality. The hybrid noise-canceling system, equipped with four microphones, effectively blocks out external noises, from the loud hum of fans to ambient sounds outside your room.
Most importantly, the Nova Pro delivers exceptional sound quality right out of the box, with bold and balanced audio. Its onboard spatial audio is crucial for picking up enemy footsteps or gauging the distance of in-game action in competitive shooters. Additionally, you can fine-tune the EQ settings and game-chat mix with Sonar and the SteelSeries GG app, making it difficult to revert to ordinary headphones for anything other than casual listening.
SteelSeries’ latest top-end headset introduces the biggest design shift since the start of the Arctis lineup. The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless features telescoping arms on its adjustable headband, accommodating larger head sizes comfortably. The sleeker earcups give it a more wireless headphone aesthetic without compromising the comfort that SteelSeries is known for. One of our favorite features, the hot-swappable rechargeable battery system, remains with enhancements, allowing you to replace the battery during long gaming sessions without interruption.
The Arctis Nova Pro is one of the best headsets available right now, offering a well-rounded experience with robust features, excellent sound quality for gaming, and unparalleled comfort. In our Arctis Nova Pro headset review, it earned a rare 10 for these reasons and more.
**IGN Deals' Picks: The Best Gaming Headset Deals**
- Logitech G733 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Headset- $127.44
- Logitech G635 DTS Gaming Headset- $69.99
- Razer Kraken Tournament Edition- $52.99
For more hand-picked deals, visit IGN Deals
HyperX Cloud III – Photos
6 Images
2. HyperX Cloud III
Best Budget Gaming Headset
### HyperX Cloud III
8The HyperX Cloud III is a wired gaming headset compatible with a wide range of devices, thanks to its 3.5mm audio connection. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications:
- Connectivity: Wired (3.5mm), USB-A / USB-C
- Drivers: 53mm Angles Drivers
- Battery life: N/A
- Weight: 318g
**Pros:**
- Extremely durable and flexible - Dense earpads for premium-grade comfort - Great sound and mic quality, especially in its price range**Cons:**
- May clamp a little too tightRegardless of which HyperX Cloud headset you choose, you're assured of quality. If you're on a budget and looking to maximize value, I always recommend the wired HyperX Cloud III, often available below its $100 base price. It delivers impressive sound and microphone quality and offers exceptional comfort. Plus, its sturdy construction ensures longevity.
The Cloud III impressed me with its build and durability right out of the box. Its aluminum frame can be bent and twisted without fear of breaking. Adjusting the headset to fit comfortably on your head is straightforward, and you can toss them onto a desk without worry. It's designed for comfort with dense foam earpads covered in leatherette, though be aware it can get a bit warm. The clamp force might be a bit strong for some users.
Ultimately, it's the sound quality that matters, and the Cloud III handles various frequencies admirably. In my Cloud III headset review, I found it adept at tracking enemy footsteps in Valorant and delivering balanced audio in Final Fantasy XIV. Given its budget-friendly nature, you might not want to splurge on a separate microphone, but fortunately, the Cloud III's mic clarity is equally impressive.
Audeze Maxwell
Best High-End Gaming Headset
### Audeze Maxwell
15The Audeze Maxwell is a high-end wireless gaming headset from one of the top headphone manufacturers in the world. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications:
- Connectivity: USB-A / USB-C, Bluetooth 5.3, 3.5mm wired
- Drivers: 90mm planar magnetic
- Battery life: 80+ hours
- Weight: 490g
**Pros:**
- Top-notch audio experience - Sleek, low-key design**Cons:**
- Leans on the heavier sideAsk anyone who has used the Audeze Maxwell about its worth, and you'll get a resounding yes, including from me. It boasts a sleek, nondescript design similar to audiophile headphones and delivers sound quality to match. While I used to believe that wired was always better for audio, the Audeze Maxwell proved me wrong.
Its 90mm planar magnetic drivers are a standout feature, and in this case, larger drivers translate to superior audio quality. The overall clarity, balance across frequencies, and rich, natural sound profile set this high-end headset apart. While the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro is my overall recommendation for its robust features, the Audeze Maxwell excels purely in the audio department.
Although comfortable, the Maxwell is on the heavier side. Its robust build might be a non-issue if you're comfortable with the weight. With excellent sound quality, long battery life, and features like toggleable noise isolation, the high price of the Maxwell is well justified.
Turtle Beach Atlas Air - Photos
16 Images
4. Turtle Beach Atlas Air
Best Wireless Gaming Headset
### Turtle Beach Atlas Air
4The Turtle Beach Atlas Air is an open-back gaming headset that offers exceptional audio fidelity. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications:
- Connectivity: 2.4GHz, Bluetooth, 3.5mm wired
- Drivers: 40mm drivers
- Battery life: 50 hours
- Weight: 301g
**Pros:**
- Extremely comfortable with light clamp force - Open-back design elevates sound quality**Cons:**
- Mediocre microphoneTurtle Beach has been a significant player in audio for several console generations, and the Atlas Air represents a peak in their gaming headsets. Its comfort is unparalleled, thanks to soft, cushioned earpads and a light clamp force. The headset's headband and overall construction feel durable yet lightweight. When I reviewed the Atlas Air, its all-day wearability stood out, largely due to the sports mesh-like upholstery that prevents heat and sweat buildup.
Open-back gaming headsets are rare, and the Atlas Air benefits from this design, offering a full and spacious audio experience. However, be mindful of the lack of natural sound isolation, which may not suit all gaming environments.
Turtle Beach's Swarm software includes customizable EQ profiles and presets, enhancing the headset's performance. Whether for music, gaming, or spatial audio, the Atlas Air delivers beautifully and is currently one of my top wireless gaming headset recommendations.
Turtle Beach Stealth 500 Headset - Photos
7 Images
5. Turtle Beach Stealth 500
Best Budget Wireless Gaming Headset
### Turtle Beach Stealth 500
4The Turtle Beach Stealth 500 offers a wireless gaming experience for under $100, providing excellent value. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications:
- Connectivity: 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.2
- Drivers: 40mm drivers
- Battery life: 40 hours
- Weight: 235g
**Pros:**
- Durable and flexible build - Great sound quality for its price**Cons:**
- Bulky design with messy button layoutTurtle Beach continues to excel in gaming headsets, and even at lower price points, they offer impressive options like the Stealth 500. Despite its bulky appearance, I found the headset comfortable and easy to use thanks to its flexible headband and sturdy construction.
The sound quality of the Stealth 500 is noteworthy. While it may struggle with higher frequencies, its robust bass and clear mids make for a full sound without artificiality. The Swarm software's Signature Sound profile ensures a satisfying audio experience without the need for extensive adjustments. Its positional audio is excellent, as proven during competitive Counter-Strike 2 sessions, offering a competitive edge without the high cost.
At this price, you get Bluetooth capabilities and can easily switch between devices. The microphone isn't exceptional but is serviceable and customizable via software. Budget headsets often require compromises, but the Stealth 500 gets the essentials right, earning it an 8 in my review.
