Imagine you’re in a 1v1 situation in a competitivePUBGmatch and just on the verge of victory. However, you get shot from behind without even knowing the enemy came right there. How would you and the team feel? Well, that’s what bad headsets do to you. Now, to save you and other players from getting shot unexpectedly without hearing the enemy’s footsteps, we are here with the best gaming headsets that will even give the sound of a leaf falling.
We all know gaming always requires the utmost focus, especially while competing in esports. This is why you should always look for gaming headsets the same way you look for thebest gaming keyboardor thebest gaming mouse. Well, below you’ll find some cream-of-the-crop headsets to get you started.
Updated on May 26, 2025, by Alexandrea Alix:Level up your audio with our guide to gaming headsets, from budget picks to audiophile options. New additions include the detail-rich beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro, the comfy Razer Barracuda X (2022), and the versatile HyperX Cloud Alpha.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS XLR StreamSet
Clarity, comfort, and quality.
Audio-Technica’s M50xSTS XLR is a premium headset designed with gaming in mind, using an analog XLR connector for superior quality audio recording.
For gamers who really value top-tier audio in their headset, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS StreamSet makes a strong case. Building on the legendary sound quality of the ATH-M50x cans, it takes that same crisp audio reproduction and tunes it specifically for gaming immersion.
The clarity you get across highs, mids and lows really shines through, letting you catch all those subtle in-game sounds - critical audio cues like enemy footsteps or reload sounds come through with precision. And that noise isolation is a game-changer, blocking external distractions, so you can really focus in.
Now, in terms of wearing it for long streaming sessions, the comfort is right up there. The build feels made to last marathon streams or long editing sessions without any ear fatigue setting in. And while Audio-Technica stuff typically holds up well over time, the ruggedness of the StreamSet should keep it going for years of regular use.
Then again, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Its heavier build and wired design might not appeal to casual gamers who prefer the convenience of wireless headsets. Additionally, while the included external microphone is a valuable addition for clear communication, it may not offer the same ease of use as integrated headset mics.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Feature-packed headset with two batteries.
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless gaming headset is expensive, sure, but you won’t find many premium headsets better than this. Why? Well, the Nova Pro Acoustic System lets you hear even the slightest of sounds. Also, the headset comes with active noise cancellation, which means you won’t be hearing any outside noise whatsoever and can easily focus on the game itself.
Not only are the speakers on the Steelseries Arctis Nova pro noise-cancelling, but the mic is too. You won’t hear any keypresses or annoying clicky noises. Moreover, the multi-system technology lets you switch between PC and console by simply flicking a switch.
There are also two batteries provided with the headset, and you can easily hot-swap between them. One will last for 44 hours, while the second will give you an additional 18–22 hours of gaming time.
Razer BlackShark V2 Gaming Headset
Perfect headset for esports with superior sound.
First and foremost, the Triforce 50mm drivers of the BlackShark V2 make the low, mid, and high audio frequencies as clear as a crystal. The sound is rich, and the bass is powerful too. And with the titanium-coated diaphragms, it’s evident that you’ll receive clear comms which are essential while gaming.
The detachable HyperClear Cardioid mic on the Razer Blackshark V2c, as expected, has noise cancelation and can be further enhanced with the Razer Synapse software. Furthermore, the ear cushions are so soft that you won’t even feel something touching your ears. The headset is a favorite of many pro gamers like Fly, Karrigan, Scout, GodV, and more.
You can connect the headset with the 3.5mm jack to multiple platforms like PC, Mac, mobile phone, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. The BlackShark V2 also has a detachable USB sound card to enhance the audio experience.
Audeze Maxwell
Never miss a sound with ultra-low latency.
The Audeze Maxwell doesn’t use the traditional 2.4 GHz, but rather its ultra-low latency wireless technology, which provides 3x the range compared to an average 2.4 GHz connection. It also supports LE audio, LDAC, and LC3plus. But the main highlight of the headset is the 90mm Audeze Planar Magnetic Drivers, delivering pin-point precision in the sound.
Want an edge over your opponents before they take you down? The Audeze Maxwell has got you covered with crystal-clear footstep sounds. The build is a combination of aluminum and steel, so the headset won’t be breaking soon. Another great aspect is that its battery life is more than 80 hours, which is too good to say the least. Besides, a 20-minute charge will let you play all day.
Lastly, the headset has a detachable boom mic with AI noise filtering and is compatible with all the major platforms.
Razer Kraken V3 X Gaming Headset
Top-notch sound experience for a small price.
Ultra-light comfort, a realistic sound experience, and voice clarity are how Razer Kraken V3 X can be defined. Weighing just 285 grams with breathable cushioning, soft headband padding, and a comfortable fit, you can’t ask for more in this price range.
The TriForce 40mm drivers and 7.1 surround sound of the Razer Kraken V3 ensure there are no compromises on the sound quality, and you hear everything accurately. Moreover, the HyperClear Cardioid mic makes sure you’re heard without any distortion in your voice.
Besides, the aesthetically pleasing chroma RGB lighting effects just add to the look and feel of the Kraken V3 X. This is your go-to headset if you’re looking for something that doesn’t cost much but looks premium.
Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT
Get voice clarity like you’re speaking in person.
Corsair Virtuoso Wireless XT’s exceptional vocal clarity and distortion-free communication are made possible by its high-bandwidth detachable 9.5mm omnidirectional mic. In short, the microphone on this gaming headset is one of the best you’ll find. There’s an RGB LED ring on the microphone to let you know if it’s muted or not.
The other features of the Corsair Virtuosa XT headset include memory foam earpads, lightweight aluminum construction, RGB lighting, 7.1 surround sound, a 20-hour battery life, simultaneous dual-wireless connections, and more. The headset also has four ways to be connected. These include a USB wired connection, a 3.5 mm wired connection, a Bluetooth connection, and a slipstream wireless connection.
All in all, it’s an excellent buy if your budget allows.
Astro Gaming A50 Wireless Headset + Base Station
Stream without worrying about audio and vocal quality.
The Astro A50 has two variants, which include PlayStation + PC and Xbox + PC. The headset itself is very premium and provides an immersive sound experience. It comes with its own base station, which has a wireless transmitter to make charging and headset pairing simple while providing low-latency voice communication.
The Astro A50 features Astro Audio V2 technology to give a precise frequency spectrum for a realistic sound experience. Secondly, Dolby Audio ensures you’re getting a cinematic gaming audio experience. The 6.0 mm uni-directional microphone is voice-isolating and can be muted by a simple flip.
Overall, it’s a feature-rich gaming headset but can cost you a fortune.
Razer Barracuda X (2022)
Wireless Headset with Comfort and Style
The Razer Barracuda X (2022) is a wireless gaming headset that boasts comfortable memory foam ear cups, dual wireless connectivity (2.4GHz and Bluetooth), and a detachable microphone.
The Razer Barracuda X (2022) is a great option for gamers who prioritize comfort, affordability, and versatility. It might not boast the most advanced features or the most pristine audio quality, but it delivers a well-rounded package that punches above its weight class.
The comfortable design allows for extended gaming sessions without fatigue, and the long battery life ensures you won’t be caught off guard by a dead headset in the middle of a raid. The dual wireless connection makes it a breeze to switch between your PC, console, and phone, making it a great choice for gamers who use their headset for more than just gaming.
Overall, the Razer Barracuda X (2022) is a dependable wireless headset that won’t break the bank.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
Studio Workhorse Headphones
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro are open-back headphones designed for professional audio production tasks like mixing, mastering, and editing.
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro are high-end headphones for serious listeners. If you’re a musician, producer, or audiophile who prioritizes precise detail and a natural sound experience, these are fantastic headphones. The open-back design lets you hear every aspect of the music, and the plush ear cups ensure you can listen in comfort for hours on end.
While not specifically designed for gaming, the DT 990 Pro’s detailed sound can actually be a big advantage. The wide soundstage and emphasis on clarity can help you pinpoint footsteps and other positional cues in games, giving you a competitive edge. However, the open-back design means these headphones might leak sound from explosions and gunfire, so these aren’t ideal for everyone.
HyperX Cloud Alpha
Comfortable All-rounder for Gamers
The HyperX Cloud Alpha is a wired gaming headset that offers a comfortable design, good sound quality, and wide compatibility.
The HyperX Cloud Alpha is a solid option for gamers who prioritize comfort and affordability. The sound quality is good, the memory foam ear cups are plush, and the build quality feels solid. The detachable microphone is a plus, although the audio quality might not impress audiophiles.
With its multi-platform compatibility, the Cloud Alpha can be your go-to headset for all your gaming needs, from PC to console to mobile. While the microphone might not be top-notch, it gets the job done for casual communication. Overall, the HyperX Cloud Alpha offers a well-rounded package for gamers who don’t want to break the bank.
Bottom Line
Choosing the right gaming headset depends on your priorities and budget. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Other Options:
Remember, this is just a starting point. Consider the features most important to you, like microphone quality, noise cancellation, and surround sound, to find the perfect headset for your gaming needs.
FAQs
What is the most used gaming headset?
The most used and popular gaming headsets include SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro, Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless SE, Razer Barracuda Pro, Razer BlackShark V2, and more. It is impossible to name just a single product.
How do I choose the best gaming headset?
The main factors to check include connectivity options, compatibility, surround sound, microphone quality, noise isolation or cancelation, latency, build quality, weight, customization options, and overall aesthetics.
Can I use my headset while charging?
Yes, if the headset has a USB charger, you can plug it in for charging while using it at the same time. Don’t make this a habit, though, as it can affect battery life in the long run.
