Whether it’s a first-person shooter or a racing game, allowing yourself to be immersed in the world of your favorite video game makes it that much more exciting. The key to any immersive experience is robust audio. That’s why a good pair of gaming headphones is crucial.
Gaming headphones are typically known as gaming headsets, and that’s because they do more than just bring the game’s audio to you. Rather, gaming headsets also bring your audio to your teammates (or opponents, for that matter) whenever you’re playing a multiplayer game. That means that unlike your average pair of Bluetooth headphones, both the drivers and the microphone need to be crystal clear and responsive in a gaming headset. After all, it’s a short drop from carrying the team to being the one that’s being carried, and your gaming headset should be an asset, not a burden.
Part of the immersive experience is a surround sound experience that allows you to feel like the sound is actually coming from behind or next to you. That’s why some of our favorites have 7.1 surround sound capabilities. Beyond just clear audio and mic capabilities, there are other important considerations. Are the earcups padded but not heavy for comfortable, multi-hour wearing? Is this headset optimized for the way you play, whether that’s PC gaming or a console? And last but not least, do they look cool? That’s why we’ve rounded up a few of the best gaming headphones available right now.
1. Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Wireless Gaming Headset
The Razer BlackShark V2 is equipped with THX 7.1, creating an incredibly immersive experience that allows you to feel the sound from all angles, and the passive noise cancellation allows you to keep your focus in the game. It’s available in either wired or wireless configurations to suit your gaming style.
Pros: Immersive audio thanks to 7.1 surround sound. Features a removable mic. Available wired or wireless.
Cons: Getting them properly set up can take some time.
2. HyperX Cloud II
The HyperX Cloud II is built to suit gamers of all stripes, and it’s suited for PC, Playstation or Xbox gaming. The earcups are designed to provide a secure fit around your ears, passively cutting out noise so you can stay in the game. The virtual 7.1 surround sound creates an immersive experience, and the aluminum build ensures long-lasting durability. The noise-canceling microphone is also detachable.
Pros: Detachable microphone with noise canceling. 7.1 surround sound. Interchangeable ear cups for customized comfort. Available in wired or wireless. Comfortable.
Cons: Microphone can potentially have some issues.
3. SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless Gaming Headset
This sleek set from SteelSeries can be used wirelessly with the included wireless adapter. This particular model is compatible with Playstation 4 and PC. The mic is bi-directional and features noise cancellation for clearer audio, and it also retracts into the body of the earcup when not in use. The wireless headphones also have an impressive 24-hour battery life.
Pros: Wireless headphones with long 24-hour battery life. Retractable microphone. Double-headband design for greater comfort.
Cons: Too easy to accidentally tap volume control.
4. Logitech G Pro X Gaming Headset with Blue Voice Technology – Black
If you’re looking for a gaming headset that wouldn’t look out of place during a remote work meeting, the Logitech G Pro X is a good option to get. The streamlined all-black look is a good alternative to the aggressively styled look of some headsets. The memory foam earcups provide all-day comfort, and the 7.1 surround sound allows you to hear everything in the game. The external USB soundcard allows you to customize your audio experience.
Pros: Sleek, simple design suits minimal tastes. External USB soundcard allows for EQ control. Includes two different cable types.
Cons: Headset is somewhat heavy.
5. Corsair VOID Elite Surround Premium Gaming Headset
If aggressive designs and flashy RGB lighting isn’t your thing, then you might prefer the minimal design of this headset from the gaming whizzes over at Corsair. Minimal shouldn’t be confused with boring, though, thanks to the sharply angular shape of the earcups. The 50mm drivers deliver audio in 7.1 surround sound, and the omnidirectional mic ensures you’re clearly heard.
Pros: 7.1 surround sound. Features like the microphone that mutes when flipped up and built-in volume buttons make it easy to control.
Cons: Fit isn’t that great if you have a smaller head.
6. ASUS ROG DELTA USB-C Gaming Headset
Well known for their laptops, ASUS is also in the headphone business. Take these premium gaming headsets that are a versatile option for PC and Playstation gaming. The triangular earcups lend a unique look, while also helping the headsets conform to your ear’s shape. The USB C cable and USB 2.0 adapter makes this a highly adaptable headset.
Pros: Versatile USB C option with a USB 2.0 adapter to suit different devices. Unique design with ergonomic earcups.
Cons: Cable could be better.
7. ASTRO Gaming A50 Wireless
If you’re looking for wireless headphones, the stylish offering from Astro is a good bet. It’s available for either Playstation or Xbox, with either model being compatible with PC games. You won’t need to buy a headphone mount, either, thanks to the sleek charging base that’s offered with the headphones. The Xbox version of the headphones offers Dolby Atmos, and you can even fine-tune audio levels using Astro’s software.
Pros: 15-hour battery life. Comes with base dock. Dolby Audio for clear and immersive sound.
Cons: Some options may be more economical.
8. Turtle Beach Recon 70 Gaming Headset
Turtle Beach’s affordable headsets are good options for gamers of all stripes. The Recon 70 is suited for XBox One, Playstation 5 and Playstation 4. It’s designed to be compatible with different surround sound programs to create an immersive experience. The convenient mic flips up to mute. This model is available in a wide variety of colors.
Pros: Good console option. Convenient flip-up mic. Good budget-friendly model.
Cons: Some options have more premium features.
9. HyperX Cloud Stinger
HyperX has a wide variety of gaming headsets, and the Cloud Stinger is one of their more affordable models. It’s a wired option with a lightweight build that’s comfortable to wear for extended periods. It has a convenient microphone that mutes when swiveled up, allowing you to decide when you want to be heard. The earcups themselves also rotate, making them easier to store while ensuring a better fit on your head.
Pros: Convenient swivel-to-mute mic. Steel sliders for greater durability. Rotating earcups.
Cons: This model doesn’t have surround sound, although there is a more expensive surround sound model from this listing.
10. Razer Kraken Gaming Headset
The eye-catching colors make Razer’s headsets a stand-out, but the simple design keeps the headphones relatively light so you won’t feel like you’re wearing an actual army helmet. It has a thick cushioned headband and earcups for comfortable wearing. The 7.1 surround sound comes courtesy of robust 50mm drivers. The unidirectional mic retracts into the earcup, keeping it out of harm’s way when not in use. To make quick adjustments, the 3.5mm cable has built-in controls.
Pros: Retractable mic. Lightweight build. Immersive surround sound.
Cons: The volume adjustment on the 3.5mm cable could be easier to use.