In order to enjoy the best possible game play, you’ll want to invest in a high-quality headset that will provide excellent sound to immerse you more deeply into the gaming experience. We believe the headsets on this list will get the job done. We’ll tell you what we like most about each one, and we’ll walk you through the entire buying process so you can make the choice that’s right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes gaming headsets different from regular headsets?
The major difference in gaming headsets is the surround sound that they provide. They may also have certain aesthetic elements, such as exterior LED lights, that are better suited for high-level gaming.
How will I connect my gaming headset?
It depends on which headset you buy. Some headsets will connect wirelessly, while other headsets will need to be plugged into your device in order to work properly. We have a few especially versatile headsets on this list that can work both ways.
Buying Guide
Before we get into the individual item listings, we want you to know about everything you should be looking for in a gaming headset. Here are a few of the most important factors to consider as you shop:
- Comfort: You may be wearing your gaming headphones for a significant amount of time. How will they feel on your head? Are they made with soft earmuffs and an adjustable headband?
- Controls: Does your headset offer any sort of volume or muting controls on the headset itself, or will this all need to be done through your system or monitor? Keep in mind that some microphones will mute by simply flipping the microphone itself upwards away from your face.
- Sound Quality: Some headsets will produce better sound than others. You’ll want to take some time to learn what kind of drivers your headset uses to provide sound.
- Connectivity: If your headset needs to be connected to function, you might be curious about how long the cable is. If you’re going to use your headset wirelessly, you’ll probably have questions about charging time, battery life, and the range at which the headset can remain connected.
- Compatibility: Will your headset work with the specific device that you’re planning to use it with? Some headsets will only work with certain gaming systems, while others may require an adapter in some special circumstances to connect properly.
- Lights: Some headsets will display color-changing LED lights on the ear cups while you are playing. This may not be important if you’re playing by yourself, but if you’re streaming video online while you’re playing, this could enhance the viewing experience for others.
- Color: While it’s not an important feature for the functionality of your headphones, you may have a choice of several colors to pick from depending on which model you choose to buy.
Bengoo Gaming Headset with Microphone
Best Overall
Comfortable and Soft Memory Earmuffs
Not only do these headphones offer plush leather ear cushions, but they also produce high-quality sound from 40mm neodymium magnet drivers. This isolates ambient noise and provides superior bass that will bring you even deeper into your gameplay.
Why We Love It:
- Sold in seven different colors
- Noise-isolating microphone picks up your voice while removing background noise
- LED lights sit on the end of the ear cups to enhance the gaming atmosphere
- 49-inch long cable includes rotary volume controller
Something to Consider:
- Will require an extra Microsoft adapter to connect to older Xbox One controllers
Razer Gaming Headset with Microphone
Best Sound
Features 7.1 Surround Sound
The lightweight aluminum frame and bendable cardioid microphone contribute to an extremely comfortable and versatile design. The headset is around 40% lighter than most others on the market, and the custom-tuned 40mm drivers will provide an exceptional sound experience no matter what game you’re playing.
Why We Love It:
- Sold in three different colors
- Can purchase individually or with optional Chroma stand
- Kraken X-frame is made to be flexible and durable
- Offers analog volume control wheel and mute switch on the headset
Something to Consider:
- Not much bass
- Mids are pretty static, and may even hurt your ears
HyperX Gaming Headset with Microphone
Best Frame
Durable Frame with Detachable Microphone
The closed-ear cup design helps block out background noise and distractions while you game. It also brings you closer to the stunning audio quality. You’ll use these headphones for years to come, not only because they sound great but also because they are built to withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
Why We Love It:
- Can purchase wired or wireless design
- Sold in three different colors
- Features 53mm drivers for better audio
- Offers 7.1 virtual surround sound
Something to Consider:
- May not plug all the way into some devices
Corsair Gaming Headset with Microphone
Most Comfortable
Made with Breathable Microfiber Mesh
The plush memory foam ear pads will keep your head and ears comfortable during the longest (and most intense) gaming sessions. The premium custom-tuned 50mm audio drivers offer extended frequency, ranging from 20 Hz up to 30,000 Hz.
Why We Love It:
- Sold in three different colors
- Connects wireless to your PC or Playstation 4 or 5
- Offers 7.1 surround sound
- Microphone has a flip-up mute function and a built-in LED mute indicator
Something to Consider:
- Not all features are available with Apple M1 chip devices
SteelSeries Gaming Headset with Microphone
Best Microphone
Moves Where You Need It
This headset is made to be light and comfortable with no annoying pressure points. The retractable microphone adjusts easily, and the noise-canceling headphones block out distractions to help you focus. You can easily adjust the volume with the on-ear controls.
Why We Love It:
- S1 speaker drivers produce low-distortion audio that highlights every detail
- Fabric cushions help keep your ears cool and dry during gaming
- Compatible with PCs, Playstations, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, VR, and mobile devices
Something to Consider:
- Optimal PS5 compatibility will require changing some settings on your console
