Gaming headsets have become a staple for serious gamers looking to fully immerse themselves in their gaming worlds. With advanced audio technology and premium comfort features, today’s gaming headsets allow you to hear every subtle sound clearly and communicate easily with teammates.
But with so many headset options on the market, it can be tricky finding the right model suited for your gaming platform and preferences. Should you go wireless or wired? Open or closed-back? What audio features are essential?
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the best gaming headset for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC in 2023. We’ve tested and reviewed the top headsets across various budgets and platforms to help you invest in a worthy headset that enhances your overall gaming experience.
What To Look For In a Gaming Headset
Compatibility with Your Platform
The most important factor is ensuring the headset works seamlessly with your console or platform. Sony and Microsoft each have their own wireless protocols.
- PlayStation headsets need to be compatible with the PS5’s Tempest 3D audio, usually via a USB wireless dongle or wired 3.5mm connection.
- Xbox headsets must support Xbox Wireless technology or connect via 3.5mm jack.
- PC headsets are most versatile, supporting wired USB and 3.5mm connections.
You want minimal lag and clear inbound/outbound chat. So check specs before buying.
Sound Quality
Sound range, accuracy, and directionality are key. Look for large drivers (40mm+), surround sound, and spatial audio support. This allows you to hear subtle game sounds clearly and pinpoint locations.
Microphone Quality
For team play, a clear mic for communication is essential. Seek out noise-cancelling mics, mic monitoring for hearing your own voice, and flip-to-mute features.
Comfort and Convenience
You’ll be wearing your headset for hours, so comfort is vital. Prioritize lightweight design, cushioned ear cups, and headband padding. Convenience features like on-ear controls and hot-swappable batteries are bonuses.
Wired vs Wireless
Both have pros and cons. Wireless headsets offer more freedom and less cable clutter but must be charged. Wired headsets have no battery concerns but keep you tethered. Also consider open-back (airier, wider soundstage) vs closed-back (more isolation).
Extra Features
Not required but nice bonuses: RGB lighting, companion apps to control EQ and settings, surround sound profiles optimized for gaming, and compatibility with PCs and mobile.
The 10 Best Gaming Headsets for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC in 2023
Best Wireless Headsets
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| Headset | Key Features | Price |
|-|-|-|
| [SteelSeries Arctis 7P+] | – Lossless 2.4 GHz wireless for PS5 & PS4 – 24+ hour battery – ClearCast bidirectional mic – Enhanced comfort headband – On-ear controls | $$ |
| [Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 2 Max] | – 50mm Nanoclear drivers – Superhuman Hearing – 48 hour battery – Xbox Wireless direct connectivity – Flip-up mic | $$ |
| [Logitech G935] | – Lightspeed wireless – 7.1 surround sound – 50mm Pro-G drivers – 6 programmable buttons – 29 hour battery life | $$$ |
Wireless headsets allow tangle-free gaming and mobility. For PS5, the SteelSeries Arctis 7P+ is designed specifically for next-gen PlayStation consoles with low latency 2.4GHz wireless, ample battery life, and a Discord-certified clear mic.
Xbox gamers will love the seamless Xbox Wireless connectivity of the Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 2 Max, now with refined drivers and Superhuman Hearing sound setting.
On PC, the Logitech G935 shines with its long-lasting Lightspeed Wireless, immersive DTS:X surround, customizable controls, and premium sound.
Best Wired Headsets
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| Headset | Key Features | Price |
|-|-|-|
| [HyperX Cloud Alpha] | – Dual chamber drivers – Detachable noise-cancelling mic – Aluminum frame – Memory foam ear cushions | $ |
| [Corsair Virtuoso] | – High-res certified 50mm drivers – Omnidirectional broadcast mic – Plush memory foam – RGB lighting – Detachable mic | $$ |
| [Drop + Sennheiser PC38X] | – Open-back design – Natural soundstage – Noise-cancelling mic – Velour earpads – Compatible with console & PC | $$ |
Wired headsets avoid battery hassles and potential wireless interference. The HyperX Cloud Alpha provides great sound isolation and mic clarity for the price.
For premium sound and build, the Corsair Virtuoso delivers high-res audio, 9.5/10 comfort and versatile connectivity.
The Drop + Sennheiser PC38X impresses with its open-back soundstage and velour earpads ideal for long gaming sessions. Works great on PC and consoles.
Best Budget Gaming Headsets Under $100
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| Headset | Key Features | Price |
|-|-|-|
| [Razer Kraken X] | – 7.1 surround sound – Cooling gel ear cushions – Bendable cardioid mic – Lightweight build | $ |
| [Logitech G432] | – 50mm drivers – DTS Headphone:X 7.1 – Flip-to-mute mic – Breathable sports mesh | $ |
| [SteelSeries Arctis 1] | – SteelSeries signature sound – ClearCast mic – Compatible across platforms – On-ear controls | $ |
You don’t have to break the bank to get a quality headset. The Razer Kraken X packs immersive 7.1 surround into a comfortable and affordable package.
The Logitech G432 keeps you cool with breathable ear cups and delivers precise sound for the price.
The SteelSeries Arctis 1 is a versatile budget pick compatible across PS, Xbox, Switch, Mobile and PC.
Most Comfortable Headsets for Long Gaming Sessions
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| Headset | Key Comfort Features | Price |
|-|-|-|
| [Astro A40 TR + MixAmp Pro] | – Memory foam ear cushions – Adjustable headband – Open-back design | $$ |
| [EPOS H3] | – Plush velour earpads – Lightweight at 9 oz – Flexible headband slider | $ |
| [Beyerdynamic MMX 300] | – Premium velour earpads – Adjustable steel headband – Cooling gel-infused cushions | $$$ |
Comfort is key for those long gaming nights. The acclaimed Astro A40 TR provides customizable, pillow-soft fit and breathable open-back cups.
The featherweight EPOS H3 pampers your ears with plush velour padding.
And the Beyerdynamic MMX 300 envelops your head with its deluxe materials and customizable steel frame.
Best Headsets for PlayStation 5
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| Headset | Key Features | Price |
|-|-|-|
| [SteelSeries Arctis 7P+] | – Dedicated PS5 2.4GHz wireless – On-ear controls – 30+ hour battery – ClearCast mic | $$ |
| [Pulse 3D] | – Made for PS5 3D audio – Dual noise-cancelling mics – 12 hour battery – Easy on-ear controls | $$ |
| [Logitech G733] | – Lightspeed wireless – 29 hour battery – 16.8M color Lightsync RGB – Blue Voice mic tech | $$ |
Get the most out of your PS5 audio with a compatible headset. The SteelSeries Arctis 7P+ is designed specifically for PlayStation with lossless 2.4GHz wireless and discord-certified ClearCast mic.
Sony’s own Pulse 3D perfectly complements the PS5’s 3D audio and dual noise-cancelling mics for squad chat.
The vibrant Logitech G733 packs quality sound and a Blue Voice mic at a more affordable price point.
Best Headsets for Xbox Series X/S
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| Headset | Key Features | Price |
|-|-|-|
| [LucidSound LS50X] | – Xbox Wireless direct – Dual mic with auto-mute – EQ presets – Premium build | $$ |
| [Razer Kaira Pro] | – Xbox Wireless – Powerful 50mm drivers – Superhuman Hearing – Memory foam ear cushions | $$ |
| [Turtle Beach Recon 500] | – 60mm drivers – Flip-to-mute mic – Superhuman Hearing – Glasses-friendly design | $ |
For Xbox Series X/S, you want seamless wireless pairing. The LucidSound LS50X delivers premium audio and mic with integrated Xbox Wireless.
The Razer Kaira Pro brings enhanced drivers and Xbox Wireless connectivity at a more affordable price point.
And the value-packed Turtle Beach Recon 500 touts larger 60mm drivers to immerse you in the action.
Best Headsets for PC Gaming
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| Headset | Key Features | Price |
|-|-|-|
| [Logitech G Pro X] | – 50mm drivers – Blue Voice mic filters – DTS Headphone:X 7.1 – Comfortable memory foam | $$ |
| [HyperX Cloud Orbit S] | – 100mm planar magnetic drivers – Waves Nx 3D audio – Detachable mic – Head tracking sensors | $$$ |
| [Corsair Virtuoso RGB] | – High-res certified 50mm drivers – Broadcast-quality mic – Slipstream wireless – Plush memory foam | $$$ |
PC gamers enjoy the most versatility in choosing a compatible headset. For competitive play, the Logitech G Pro X offers immersive surround sound and Blue Voice mic filters.
The HyperX Cloud Orbit S provides an uncompromising audio experience with Audeze’s advanced planar drivers and head tracking.
Corsair’s Virtuoso RGB means high-fidelity audio and a broadcast mic with slipstream wireless and RGB immersion.
Best Budget Headsets Under $50
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| Headset | Key Features | Price |
|-|-|-|
| [HyperX Cloud Stinger] | – Convenient volume controls – Swivel-to-mute mic – Lightweight comfort | $ |
| [Razer Kraken X] | – 7.1 Surround Sound – Cooling gel ear cushions – Bendable cardioid mic | $ |
| [Corsair HS50] | – 50mm drivers – Discord-certified mic – Adjustable earcups – Works on PC, PS4, Xbox One & Switch | $ |
You can get capable gaming sound on a tight budget. The HyperX Cloud Stinger provides handy volume and mute controls in a lightweight package.
The Razer Kraken X enhances immersion with 7.1 surround and cooling gel earcups.
And the Corsair HS50 delivers quality 50mm drivers with a clear mic across PC and console.
6 Headset Considerations to Match Your Gaming Style
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There are a few personal factors that can help steer you towards your ideal headset for how you game.
Headset vs Headphones + Mod Mic
For the ultimate in audio fidelity, some gamers opt for high-end audiophile headphones plus a mod mic attachment. This allows mixing and matching of best-in-class headphones and mics for audio quality. But it means a more complex, expensive setup with cables. Gaming headsets offer simpler all-in-one convenience.
Open-Back vs Closed-Back Earcups
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Open-back earcups have perforations/grills that allow some sound to leak out. The benefit is a more natural, spacious soundstage. But sound also bleeds in from your environment.
Closed-back earcups with solid shells fully enclose the drivers. This isolates audio and blocks exterior noise for more immersion. But the soundstage feels more confined.
For noisy environments or privacy, choose closed-back. If you game in quiet rooms and want the most natural sound, try open-back.
Wireless vs Wired
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Wireless gaming headsets provide greater freedom and less cable clutter at the cost of battery charging/maintenance. Potential wireless interference in congested environments can also cause audio cutouts.
Wired gaming headsets eliminate battery life concerns and wireless disruption risks. But you remain physically tethered by cables.
If you want to freely move around and prioritize convenience, go wireless. If audio stability is most important, stick with wired.
Microphone Quality
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For squad gaming, a clear mic for communication is key. Look for:
- Noise-cancelling – Isolates your voice
- Removable/flip-to-mute boom mic – Conveniently mutes when not in use
- Mic monitoring – Lets you hear your voice to avoid shouting
Single player gamers can sometimes forego a mic. But if playing co-op games eventually, invest in strong mic quality.
Platform Compatibility
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Choose a headset that works seamlessly with your gaming platform whether PS5, Xbox Series X/S, or PC. Console gamers should look for platform-optimized wireless connectivity. PC gamers have more versatility but should check headphone and mic compatibility.
Design Style
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Gaming headset designs range from edgy and eye-catching to sleek and minimalist.
- Do you like flashy RGB lighting for visual impact?
- Prefer a rugged, industrial look? Standard black?
- Is ultra-plush comfort for long hours of wear most important?
- Do you need a detachable microphone to use headphones for music/calls?
Match the headset design and aesthetic to your preferences.
FAQs – Most Common Gaming Headset Questions Answered
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Should I choose wireless or wired gaming headsets?
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It depends on your priorities:
Wireless headsets give you freedom of movement and less wire clutter. But they must be charged and can suffer interference in congested wireless environments.
Wired headsets have consistent connectivity without battery concerns. But you remain physically tethered by cables.
If mobility is most important, go wireless. If you want the most reliable connectivity, choose wired.
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What features offer the best sound quality?
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Look for gaming headsets with:
- Large high-fidelity drivers (40mm+)
- Advanced surround sound like Dolby Atmos, DTS Headphone:X, etc)
- Sound isolation via closed-back earcups and noise-cancellation
- Platform-optimized wireless for reliable connectivity
These all contribute to the most immersive, detailed sound.
How important is the microphone quality?
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For team/squad gaming and communication, a clear microphone is vital. Seek out:
- Noise-cancelling to isolate your voice
- Uni-directional mics that pick up less ambient sound
- Flip-to-mute for easily muting yourself
- Mic monitoring so you can hear your voice level
If only playing singleplayer games, less mic quality emphasis may be OK. But a headset with a quality mic leaves open multiplayer gaming down the road.
Should I get open-back or closed-back earcups?
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Open-back earcups allow some exterior sound leakage but provide a natural, spacious soundstage that’s great for immersive gaming.
Closed-back earcups isolate both incoming and outgoing audio for sound purity and privacy. But the audio space feels more confined.
If you game in louder environments or need sound isolation, opt for closed-back. If you want the most natural, surround sound and game in quiet settings, try open-back.
How important is the headset comfort?
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Comfort is extremely important if you game for hours on end. Prioritize headsets with:
- Plush memory foam or velour earpads
- Lightweight yet durable construction
- Adjustable headband and earcup fit
- Cooling gel/breathability in the earpads
A headset pumping out amazing sound is pointless if it starts hurting your head after 30 minutes. Never compromise on comfort.
Are gaming headsets good for listening to music?
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Many gaming headsets feature large, high-fidelity drivers and surround sound support optimized for immersive game audio. This can provide a great music listening experience:
- Large 40mm+ drivers deliver a full sound spectrum and defined bass
- DTS and Dolby audio make music sound spatial and lively
- Noise-isolation creates clearer audio without ambient distractions
However, audiophile-grade headphones designed purely for music might offer even better music reproduction. But they lack gaming features like mics and surround sound support.
In Summary – How to Choose the Best Headset
Shopping for a gaming headset involves weighing your platform needs, feature priorities, and budget. But focus first on sound, comfort, and compatibility for an optimal experience. Console gamers, choose options like the SteelSeries Arctis 7P+ or LucidSound LS50X optimized for your platform’s wireless connectivity. PC gamers can choose versatile headphones like the HyperX Cloud Orbit S then add a mod mic. Competitive gamers need
quality surround sound and chat-friendly microphones. And watch your budget, as capable headsets like the Razer Kraken X and Corsair HS50 provide solid bang-for-buck.
While everyone’s preferences differ, some universal truths remain – durable construction for years of use, lush earpads for all-day wear, and drivers that reproduce sound with sparkling clarity. Keep these factors in mind, and let your own gaming priorities guide you to the ideal headset. The world of audiophile game audio continues advancing rapidly. There’s never been a better time to equip your ears with the immersion they deserve. Game on!
