Want to blast game audio and voice chat without disturbing the people in your immediate vicinity? You need a gaming headset. PCMag knows gaming headsets as well as we know gaming laptops, gaming keyboards, and gaming mice, so explore our thoroughly tested recommendations. Each headset on this list underwent a battery of tests and ongoing use to evaluate its quality and value. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is our top pick for premium wireless headsets thanks to its excellent sound quality, active noise cancellation (ANC), support for two USB audio sources, and hot-swappable batteries. True audiophiles should check out its step-up sibling, the Arctis Nova Elite, which adds even better audio and support for wireless hi-res streaming. On the budget side, the Logitech G Astro A10 is a simple, wired gaming headset that plugs into any device with a jack and delivers good performance for the price. These are just three of our top picks for the best gaming headsets; many more great options are listed below.
Overview
-
Jump To Details
![SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless]()
Best Wireless Headset OverallSteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
-
Jump To Details
![Logitech G Astro A10]()
Best Budget-Friendly Wired HeadsetLogitech G Astro A10
-
Jump To Details
![Razer Barracuda X]()
Best Budget-Friendly Wireless HeadsetRazer Barracuda X
-
Jump To Details
![Razer BlackShark V3 Pro]()
Best Midrange Noise-Cancelling HeadsetRazer BlackShark V3 Pro
-
Jump To Details
![SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite]()
Best HIgh-End Headset for AudiophilesSteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite
-
Jump To Details
![SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro]()
Best High-End Wired HeadsetSteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro
-
Jump To Details
![Turtle Beach Atlas Air]()
Best Open-Back Gaming HeadsetTurtle Beach Atlas Air
-
Jump To Details
![Logitech G Astro A50 X]()
Best HDMI-Switching HeadsetLogitech G Astro A50 X
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
-
![SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless]()
Best Wireless Headset OverallSteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
This is the best, most flexible wireless gaming headset available, and the only one with swappable batteries. The Arctis Pro Wireless features a desktop wireless transmitter with a handy control knob, two USB-C ports for simultaneous connections to your computer and a compatible console (PlayStation, Xbox), and a charging slot for the included second battery. It also sounds good, feels good, and has surprisingly effective active noise cancellation.
Who It's For
Gamers with deep pockets: Willing to invest a substantial amount of money in an excellent wireless headset? This is the one for you. The SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless is expensive, but its features (especially the dual-platform connectivity) and overall quality justify the high price.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Battery Life Up to 36 hours Bluetooth Connection Type Bluetooth Connection Type Stereo 3.5mm Connection Type USB Frequency Range 10Hz–40kHz (music), 100Hz-6.5kHz (voice) Type Circumaural (over-ear) Type Gaming Wireless Learn More SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Review -
-
![Logitech G Astro A10]()
Best Budget-Friendly Wired HeadsetLogitech G Astro A10
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
It's a bit dated, but the Astro A10 is still one of the best inexpensive wired gaming headsets you can buy. It's simple, with a stereo configuration and a 3.5mm connector, but it sounds great and has a clear mic. Even better, you can find it for around $50.
Who It's For
Budget-conscious gamers: If you're looking for excellent audio quality in a low-cost wired headset, this is a great choice. It's especially good for console gamers, as all major game systems feature headphone jacks.
Specs & Configurations
Connection Type Stereo 3.5mm Type Circumaural (over-ear) Learn More Astro Gaming A10 (Gen 2) Review -
-
![Razer Barracuda X]()
Best Budget-Friendly Wireless HeadsetRazer Barracuda X
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Razer Barracuda X isn't the fanciest or most luxurious-feeling wireless gaming headset, but it's one of the most affordable and flexible options for delivering high-quality audio. The USB-C transmitter lets it work with any PC, Switch, PlayStation (4 or 5), or Android phone with a USB-C port (Xbox isn't supported). Additionally, it features Bluetooth for on-the-go music listening and supports a 3.5mm wired connection. Most importantly, it sounds good, with a microphone that swings above its weight class in clarity.
Who It's For
Budget-minded, non-Xbox gamers: The Barracuda X remains one of the best budget options for a wireless gaming headset that also lets you listen to music on your phone. Just remember that it doesn't work wirelessly with Xbox consoles.
Specs & Configurations
Connection Type Bluetooth Connection Type Stereo 3.5mm Connection Type USB-C Type Circumaural (over-ear) Type Gaming Wireless Learn More Razer Barracuda X (2022) Review -
-
![Razer BlackShark V3 Pro]()
Best Midrange Noise-Cancelling HeadsetRazer BlackShark V3 Pro
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro is more expensive than its predecessor, but it adds a feature that justifies the price: active noise cancellation (ANC). This wireless headset effectively blocks distractions while delivering excellent sound with spatial audio, and its microphone ensures clear voice communication.
Who It's For
Gamers who want to block distractions: Due to its ANC and strong sound, the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro is an excellent choice if you want to tune out everything and focus on the game you're playing. The cans certainly aren't cheap, but they're less expensive than many similarly equipped high-end headsets.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth Connection Type Stereo 3.5mm Connection Type USB Type Circumaural (over-ear) Type Gaming Wireless Learn More Razer Blackshark V3 Pro Review -
-
![SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite]()
Best HIgh-End Headset for AudiophilesSteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Arctis Nova Elite takes everything that makes the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless great and builds on it with carbon fiber drivers, wireless 96Hz/24-bit hi-res audio, and a base station that can connect to three systems over USB at once (including both PlayStation and Xbox). Those upgrades add up to a pretty massive price tag for any gaming headset, though.
Who It's For
Audiophiles with the means: This is one of the best-sounding gaming headsets I've ever used, and one of the most expensive. The improvements it makes in balance and clarity from the already excellent Arctis Nova Pro Wireless probably won't justify the $220 premium the Elite demands unless you're an audio die-hard. In fact, the audio quality upgrades really only come through with high-quality music, since few games support the full bitrate the headset handles.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type 2.4GHz Connection Type Bluetooth 5.3 Connection Type USB-C Type Circumaural (over-ear) Type Gaming Wireless Learn More SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite Review -
-
![SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro]()
Best High-End Wired HeadsetSteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro is simply one of the most powerful and feature-filled wired gaming headsets available. It feels luxurious, sounds excellent, and its PC software features strong spatial audio and numerous granular adjustments. It also works with every major game console, though you must choose between PlayStation and Xbox versions; there's no model that's compatible with both. In a nice touch, you can connect it to two devices simultaneously over USB-C. It's also one of the few gaming headsets that support high-res audio.
Who It's For
Gamers who want a premium feel, and who don't need wireless: The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro feels fantastic, with its strong build and earcups that swivel into a subtle, angled, comfortable position. Satisfying and immersive sound rounds out the package, though it isn't particularly bass-heavy.
Specs & Configurations
Connection Type Stereo 3.5mm Connection Type USB Type Gaming Learn More SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Review -
-
![Turtle Beach Atlas Air]()
Best Open-Back Gaming HeadsetTurtle Beach Atlas Air
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Almost all gaming headsets are closed-back headphones, which means their sealed earcups allow air to flow in and out of the part that faces your ear. This is great for blocking outside noise, but it isn't always the most accurate for high-end sound. Many audiophiles prefer open-back headphones, such as the Turtle Beach Atlas Air, because they offer a more natural sound (without noise cancellation). The Atlas Air also has a good sense of space, a respectable microphone, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Who It's For
Fans of open-back headphones: If you're looking for a balanced, accurate sound that feels open and natural, consider the Atlas Air. Just be aware that you'll hear every sound around you.
Specs & Configurations
Connection Type Bluetooth Connection Type Stereo 3.5mm Connection Type USB Type Circumaural (over-ear) Type Gaming Wireless Learn More Turtle Beach Atlas Air Review -
-
![Logitech G Astro A50 X]()
Best HDMI-Switching HeadsetLogitech G Astro A50 X
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Logitech G Astro's top-of-the-line A50 does something rare among wireless gaming headsets: It works with the PlayStation and Xbox consoles without requiring separate versions. It accomplishes this with a unique base station that serves as an HDMI switch, allowing you to switch between two HDMI sources (either both game consoles or one console and a PC).
Who It's For
People who game on both PlayStation and Xbox: Dual console owners, this is your ideal headset. Logitech's workaround for simultaneously supporting PlayStation and Xbox is a bit awkward, but there aren't many elegant ways to provide full audio features on both platforms with a single headset.
Specs & Configurations
Connection Type HDMI Connection Type USB-C Type Circumaural (over-ear) Type Gaming Wireless Learn More Logitech G Astro A50 X Review -
Compare Specs
Our Pick | |||||||||||
Rating |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
Best For | Best Wireless Headset Overall | Best Budget-Friendly Wired Headset | Best Budget-Friendly Wireless Headset | Best Midrange Noise-Cancelling Headset | Best HIgh-End Headset for Audiophiles | Best High-End Wired Headset | Best Open-Back Gaming Headset | Best HDMI-Switching Headset | Best Wireless Headset Overall | Best Budget-Friendly Wired Headset | Best Budget-Friendly Wireless Headset |
Type | Gaming, Circumaural (over-ear) | Circumaural (over-ear) | Circumaural (over-ear), Gaming | Circumaural (over-ear), Gaming | Circumaural (over-ear), Gaming | Gaming | Gaming, Circumaural (over-ear) | Gaming, Circumaural (over-ear) | Gaming, Circumaural (over-ear) | Circumaural (over-ear) | Circumaural (over-ear), Gaming |
Wireless | |||||||||||
True Wireless | |||||||||||
Connection Type | USB, Bluetooth, Stereo 3.5mm | Stereo 3.5mm | Bluetooth, USB-C, Stereo 3.5mm | USB, Bluetooth, Stereo 3.5mm | USB-C, 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.3 | Stereo 3.5mm, USB | USB, Bluetooth, Stereo 3.5mm | USB-C, HDMI | USB, Bluetooth, Stereo 3.5mm | Stereo 3.5mm | Bluetooth, USB-C, Stereo 3.5mm |
Water/Sweat-Resistant | |||||||||||
Active Noise Cancellation |
Buying Guide: The Best Gaming Headsets for 2026
Wired vs. Wireless Gaming Headsets
Headsets are available in wired or wireless varieties, with the latter typically being more expensive. More importantly, each gaming headset supports different console, handheld, and PC connections.
You can use Bluetooth with a wireless headset to connect to a Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 5 Pro, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and last-generation consoles. Additionally, Bluetooth is compatible with most mobile devices and some computers (note that the original Xbox One does not support Bluetooth). Other systems require a different wireless connection, often with a separate base plugged into your console or computer.
Bluetooth has made significant strides in the last few years, but proprietary wireless connections generally offer better audio quality, faster response times, and a stronger signal. These connections are typically designed for use with only one console or one console and a PC. For most wireless gaming headsets, you must choose between Xbox and PlayStation models.
Want to go wired? Whether you game on PlayStation, Switch, Xbox, or most handheld gaming devices, you can plug a 3.5mm headphone jack into the controller or system and start playing. Many handheld gaming PCs, such as the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go S, and Steam Deck, also feature headset jacks.
Using a headset with even older systems, such as the PS3 and Xbox 360, requires checking whether the headset supports the consoles' unique connections or if adapters are available. PCs are the most flexible gaming headset platforms, as they work with USB headsets (which are generally only compatible with computers), 3.5mm analog connections (though a splitter adapter may be needed if your headset has only one plug), and optical audio.
For more, see our picks for the Best Wireless Gaming Headsets.
The Best Gaming Headsets for Surround Sound
Most high-end gaming headsets claim to provide some form of surround sound, but this isn't technically accurate. Gaming headsets use stereo drivers (one for each ear) to produce sound, but can't create true surround sound acoustics like multiple speakers distributed around a room. Gaming surround sound typically utilizes Dolby, DTS, or THX processing technologies that adjust how the headsets mix sound between your ears to create the impression of 360-degree audio. This processing is impressive and provides a strong sense of directionality.
If a headset doesn't have this processing out of the box, the PlayStation 5 produces it with any connected cans. You can also obtain Dolby Atmos or THX Spatial Audio on your PC or Xbox through paid apps, which typically cost $10 to $20.
The Best Gaming Headsets for Consoles
Most high-end headsets come in distinct, console-specific versions. If a headset is marketed primarily for PC use, it may also work with a console via a USB connection. However, the headset may not support all features. Any headset with a 3.5mm wired connection can work with a console through the controller's headset jack. Check a model's packaging and product page to ensure the headset you want is compatible with your gaming platform.
The Best Microphones for Gaming
Regarding headset microphones, we've been consistently impressed by the mics Razer puts in its headsets, as well as the mics on Logitech G and SteelSeries' flagship headsets. These models can be quite pricey (expect to pay more than $300), but they feature excellent voice clarity.
You can also consider the Antlion Audio ModMic (pictured above). It's a boom mic that easily attaches to your favorite pair of headphones and can be removed when not in use, thanks to a two-piece magnetic mount. The ModMic lacks the gaming-specific features typically found in dedicated gaming headsets, but it lets you use old headphones for voice chat. Ensure you have the correct connection or adapter to use it with your preferred game platform.
If you're serious about streaming or other gaming commentary, consider forgoing the boom mic and opting for a dedicated USB microphone. Decent USB mics can be found for $50 to $150, and they provide far clearer, richer, more natural audio than any boom mic. They're trickier to set up properly for good sound, though; you need to be mindful of the microphone position and your relative distance from it.
If you prefer single-player games and live alone, you don't need a headset at all. You can use speakers to enjoy the room-filling atmosphere, but you'll find yourself shouting into the inexpensive and mediocre monoaural headsets that are often bundled with consoles.