Arguably, three major PC gaming peripherals are essential and require detailed research before making the purchase decision. These are gaming mice, keyboards, and gaming headsets. Not only do gaming headsets allow you to pinpoint the location of your enemies and immerse you in the world of the game you are playing, but they also come with mics that let you communicate with friends and teammates. While conventional headphones have been seeping into the gaming headset space, they do not offer the dedicated functionality of a gaming peripheral.

Multiplayer competitive action on a PC requires a reliable gaming headset that can keep gamers in constant communication with teammates. These peripherals are an important addition to any gaming or streaming setup, but the best PC gaming headset choices come in a dizzying array of price points, offering very different feature sets.

Game Rant's Picks for the Best PC Gaming Headsets in 2024

The Turtle Beach Stealth Pro looks more like a conventional pair of high-end studio headphones, rather than a piece of gaming gear. The sleek gaming headset has a construction that's heavy on steel, which likely contributes to its 400-gram weight without an external microphone attached. It's not the most portable wireless headset available, but with plush memory foam cushions, the Stealth Pro is plenty comfortable for extended gaming sessions.

The impressive sound quality is made possible thanks to the 50 mm drivers and active noise cancelation, which can reduce noise levels up to 25 dB. For communicating with your teammates, there is an external detachable mic as well as two concealed mics on the headset itself. All of them support noise cancelation through the company's S.M.A.R.T technology.

Connectivity with the Stealth Pro is almost never-ending with a few different versions available. PC gamers can use the device with Xbox and PlayStation consoles as well as various mobile devices, courtesy of simultaneous Bluetooth 5.1 pairing. The Stealth Pro ships with a wireless USB hockey puck-type hub, which also doubles as a charging station for the headset's two swappable batteries. The wireless signal offers an above-average 50-foot range with a 2.4 GHz protocol that intelligently stays clear of interference.

For a complete breakdown of what the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro offers, make sure to read Game Rant's full review.

For gamers who dread the possibility of batteries running out at critical moments, wired headsets are a sensible choice. Streamers or multiplayer gamers who desire more control over their game/chat sound mixes can purchase the Astro Gaming A40TR with the optional USB MixAmp Pro TR. The MixAmp also enables gamers to connect to multiple sources simultaneously, through optical, analog, and USB inputs.

As the best gaming headset PC users can rely on for a stable corded connection, the Astro Gaming A40 TR headset is designed for gamers on many platforms. No matter what device players use, different Astro Gaming A40 TR models can be adapted for PC, Xbox, and PlayStation use. The ear cushions on the Astro Gaming A40 TR are comfortable and durable, covered with synthetic leather for maximum life-lasting durability. With the pro-quality Astro audio, gamers can rely on the Astro Gaming A40 TR to give them the immersive experience they need for any game.

When gamers purchase an Astro Gaming A40 TR, they also get a modding experience with the mod-kit-ready open-back design. Add a Mod Kit to close the backs of each headphone for a more isolated and thunderous gaming experience. Don't like where the mic is positioned? Users can swap the omnidirectional mic's side from the right to the left, or vice versa.

If a buyer is looking for a more budget-friendly alternative to the Astro Gaming A40 TR, check out Game Rant's review of the Astro Gaming A10 wired headset.

Wireless gaming headsets have come a long way in recent years, both in terms of sound quality and battery life. The Logitech G Astro A30 Headset is one of the first Astro headsets marketed with the Logitech name since the company acquired Astro in 2017. Logitech hasn't strayed far from the successful formula of past Astro headsets with a sleek and futuristic design and class-leading functionality.

Available in White and Navy colors, the Logitech G Astro A30 LIGHTSPEED wireless headset features Moving Coil Dynamic drivers with a frequency response of 20-20,000 Hz and an impedance of 32 Ohms. It is the perfect headset for those looking to use it in multiple situations, connected with different devices. In terms of battery life, these can deliver over 27 hours of playtime, which is not the highest but still impressive.

The Logitech G Astro A30 is the best PC gaming headset without cords that features a wide range of compatibility with PC, Xbox, PS5, Nintendo Switch, and Android sources. Another feature that sets the Astro A30 apart from the competition is its ability to mix audio simultaneously from different sources, using a wireless RF USB dongle and Bluetooth. No longer relying on the Astro Command Center on PCs, the sound profiles of the Astro A30 are adjusted through the Logitech G mobile app.

Check out Game Rant's full Logitech G Astro A30 review for even more information and find out if it is the right headset for you.

For new gamers or streamers on a tight budget, it's hard to ignore all that the Razer Kraken V3 X offers for an affordable price. The Kraken V3 X is a wired gaming headset that works on PCs and PlayStation consoles through a USB connection. However, in order to activate its THX 7.1 spatial audio, buyers will need to download software, making the headset ideal for PC gamers.

Buyers might have low expectations for sound quality when it comes to a budget gaming headset, but the TriForce 40 mm drivers on the Kraken V3 X defy its price point. Low, mid, and high tones are all recognizable, with the usual emphasis on bass effects seen with gaming headsets. Sadly, the Kraken V3 X doesn't fully take advantage of the Razer Synapse app, and there are no EQ sliders or sound profiles. The HyperClear cardioid mic impresses, bending to allow gamers to position it in the perfect location to maximize voice clarity.

Considering its dominantly plastic build, it's questionable if the Kraken V3 X can outlast more premium gaming headsets made from aluminum. Regardless, its surround sound capabilities, comfortable fit, and excellent microphone make the Razer Kraken V3 X the best PC gaming headset for budget shoppers.

After investing in a budget pre-built PC, a headset is the last thing a gamer wants to spend additional funds on. The Logitech G435 LIGHTSPEED won't match the features of pricier headsets, but in many ways, it sets a new standard for what's possible with a budget wireless device.

Buyers should realize that while more than just children and teenagers can use the G435, it's meant for younger audiences or gamers with smaller heads. Still, even if a gamer has a medium-sized noggin, the flexible headband and adjustable earcups make it a reasonable peripheral to wear for several hours at a time or longer. It's probably a stretch to call the G435 luxurious, but the fabric around the earcups is fairly breathable while the headset sports memory foam padding.

One area where the capabilities of the Logitech G435 defy its asking price is connectivity. Unfortunately, there is no analog audio port or USB compatibility with Xbox consoles. Otherwise, with a Lightspeed USB dongle, PS4, PS5, and PC users can save some valuable funds and enjoy the surprisingly robust audio quality pumped out by the headset's 40 mm drivers. Bluetooth is not a feature often found on budget headsets with RF capabilities, but it's available on the G435 in order to pair with the Nintendo Switch and mobile devices. The 18-hour battery life of the G435 is more than acceptable for a cheaper gaming headset and even trumps some more expensive devices.

Boasting compatibility with many platforms and a price well below what major brands sell their least expensive devices for, the Logitech G435 LIGHTSPEED is the best wireless gaming headset PC that users on a strict budget can add to their rig.

The Logitech G Pro X is a quality headset based on the award-winning original Pro Gaming Headset. Among the most popular headsets Logitech has to offer, the Logitech G Pro X features high-quality materials including a lightweight steel frame. It's no surprise that many of the most popular competitive gamers bring the 338-gram wired headset with them to various competitions.

Blue Vo!ce technology leads to the Logitech G Pro X being particularly desirable for streamers. Using software filters in the Logitech G Hub, the voice clarity of the user is enhanced, and background noise is eliminated.

The next-gen DTS X 2.0 surround sound system makes the Logitech G Pro X sound output more immersive than ever, with greater positional awareness of objects in games than other leading headsets. Benefiting from soft memory foam padding on the inside, gamers can wear the Logitech G Pro X without strain. The Logitech G Pro X is the best gaming headset PC users can buy on a modest budget and is built to last, with durable aluminum and steel parts along the headband and cuffs. It works with both PCs and consoles so that gamers can use the Logitech G Pro X no matter where they choose to game.

For more about what makes this headset rule the competitive gaming scene, check out Game Rant's Logitech G Pro X review.

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless delivers everything a gamer would expect from a high-end wireless headset. Its premium price allows for the inclusion of an audio transmitter with an OLED display providing real-time information. In addition, SteelSeries ships the headset with a swappable second battery to keep esports competitors supplied with up to 36 hours of power during marathon matches.

The Multi-System DAC included with the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is another highlight of this wireless headset. Featuring dual USB ports, gamers can connect both PCs and consoles and easily switch between them with the press of a button. Furthermore, with a premium price tag comes premium sound quality thanks to the Nova Pro Acoustic System, which uses 360-degree spatial audio and pro-grade parametric EQ to deliver precise audio, especially useful in shooting games where knowing the location of your enemy is paramount.

Interestingly, the headset is powered by 40 mm drivers which, considering the price and the competition, are relatively smaller, but SteelSeries has tuned them in a way that they deliver incredible audio quality that matches (if not surpasses) the 50 mm driver offerings.

The Arctis Nova Pro also includes more than acceptable active noise cancelation technology to block out distractions near a gaming setup. The Nova Pro is also the best PC gaming headset for widespread connectivity, with a built-in Bluetooth transmitter. There are several versions available depending on whether a gamer wants to connect a PS5 or Xbox Series X/S to the headset.

Feel free to read Game Rant's full review of the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless to see why it rules the cord-free gaming headset competition.

JBL is well-respected for its professional-grade headphones and speakers, but it is not instantly recognizable for its gaming products. The Quantum One changes that perception with a premium listening experience combined with the features expected from the best JBL PC gaming headset.

The JBL Quantum One aims to bring gamers to the isolated environment of a sound studio with its active noise cancellation. JBL's patented QuantumSound immerses players in sound as they explore potentially dangerous environments. RGB lighting effects give gamers a stylish gaming headset, while its vast compatibility makes it simple to switch from gaming on PCs to consoles.

It features 50 mm drivers and interesting features packaged into what it calls JBL QuantumENGINE. Along with QuantumSound, these features include customizable RGB lighting, EQ settings, Microphone settings, and more. The mic has Echo-canceling technology that ensures your teammates hear you clearly and consistently.

Please take a moment to read Game Rant's full review of the JBL Quantum ONE Gaming Headset.

Popular streamers like Ninja are expected to set trends for PC peripherals, including gaming headsets. Not wanting to look like the ordinary everyday gamer, some Twitch and YouTube personalities turn to the wired Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro. The headset not only offers the same sound quality as Razer's other Kraken headsets, but also includes three attachments for cat, bear, and bunny ears. Each accessory is lit up with Chroma RGB lighting, enhancing the already bright-looking Kraken Kitty V2 Pro headset.

For a wired headset, the Kraken Kitty V2 Pro is a serious investment, and undoubtedly the additional animal ears and RGB lighting factor into the cost. Even so, the headset has the same TriForce 50mm drivers as Razer's other high-end headsets, providing a rich and balanced soundscape. Additionally, the peripheral gives the option of detaching its Hyperclear Cardoid Mic for streamers and gamers constantly on the move.

The Razer Kraken Kitty V2 connects to PCs using a permanently attached USB type A cable. Since there is no analog audio connection possible, this does limit connectivity with some devices. Regardless, the Kraken Kitty V2 is the best PC gaming headset for RGB enthusiasts looking to add some distinctiveness to their setups.

Since its release in the summer of 2020, the wired Razer BlackShark V2 has become one of the best PC gaming headset options for gamers. Regularly included in the gear of esports competitors, the Razer BlackShark V2 offers the reliability that only a top-notch wired gaming headset can provide. The BlackShark V2 has proven over several years on the market, as extremely durable and comfortable for both casual and professional gamers. They feature soft breathable memory foam ear cushions making them one of the most comfortable gaming headsets to wear over long durations.

Communication with other players is vital in multiplayer gaming, and Razer's headset sports a detachable boom microphone that minimizes latency with maximum audio clarity. Equipped with a compact USB soundcard, PC gamers benefit from THQ Spatial Audio, which accurately reveals the position of approaching enemies. Razer is using its TriForce 50 mm drivers on the BlackShark V2 that have proved their worth in other Razer headsets.

As a more affordable alternative to the BlackShark V2, read Game Rant's Razer BlackShark V2 X review to learn more.

In 2015, HyperX released the Cloud II wired gaming headset, and it quickly went on to become one of the company's most famous peripherals, especially popular among competitive gamers. Comfort is what gamers most commonly associate Cloud headsets with, and the newcomer Cloud III wired gaming headset is more of a pleasure than ever to wear. At its reasonable asking price, no competing headset can quite match the plush memory foam padding in the Cloud III. Perhaps even more tricky to replicate is the finely tuned clamping force of the HyperX headset, which manages to conform to almost any head size and shape.

PC gamers can connect to the Cloud III in a variety of ways including with a built-in USB sound card that offers USB-C, USB-A, and a 3.5 analog audio cable. Utilizing the HyperX soundcard, PC gamers can benefit from DTS Headphone:X spatial audio, which enhances gaming soundscapes and enables gamers to recognize approaching enemies. However, compared to other spatial sound codecs, the effects of this DTS technology seem rather understated and users probably won't miss it if it's not enabled.

Another explanation for the popularity of Cloud headsets is the fact that they look and feel like the most high-end options on the market. Its 318-gram weight makes it just portable enough to take around to tournaments, while not sacrificing any durability provided by its all-metal frame. Compatible with virtually all gaming consoles, the HyperX Cloud III is accommodating enough to become an essential part of any gaming rig for many years to come.

HyperX released the Cloud Alpha wired headset in 2017, and it experienced instant approval from content creators and gamers. It took the company five years to unleash a wireless version of the headset, so expectations were naturally sky-high. Fortunately, the Cloud Alpha Wireless launched with a killer feature that addressed one of the main drawbacks of wireless peripherals: battery life. The wireless headset contains an enormous battery that lasts 300 hours, which is well over a week for most gamers.

The Cloud Alpha Wireless offers many of the features that made the original wired version so popular, including its dual chamber drivers, keeping bass tones separate from mid and low sounds for maximum clarity. The wireless headset is also DTS Headphone: X certified for convincing spatial audio effects.

This wireless headset is true to its name and is not a great option for gamers who need to connect to sources with a cord. The Cloud Alpha Wireless lacks any ports for analog audio connections and relies solely on the included wireless RF USB adapter. This stands as one of the drawbacks of this headset as it cannot work with a console. Even so, with a battery life that demolishes the competition, the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless is the best headset for buyers who demand the same reliability as a wired peripheral.

If a buyer is looking for a less expensive alternative to the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless, check out Game Rant's review of the HyperX Cloud 2 Wireless.

Afraid of added latency and dying batteries, esports pros often turn their noses up at the thought of using wireless headsets. Even so, the Logitech G Pro X line of headsets has years of proven performance in competitions, and its latest cordless offering is intent on changing their minds. The Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed gives gamers the option of using blistering fast RF connectivity, Bluetooth, or a 3.5 mm analog audio connection. One disappointment is that buyers will have to toggle between Bluetooth and Lightspeed modes, and can't hear two sources simultaneously. Buyers will find the 50-hour battery life of the Pro X 2 Lightspeed more than acceptable and its wireless range maxes out at an impressive 100 feet.

Comfort is usually a strength of Pro X headsets, and the latest Logitech headset does not disappoint in this regard either. Gamers who found previous headsets too snug will appreciate the rotating earcups in the Pro X 2 Lightspeed as well as its extra soft memory foam earpads. The headset has a somewhat bulky and plush appearance, but its portability is aided by a 6 mm detachable cardioid microphone. Speaking of the microphone, Logitech's Blue VO!CE utilizes the power of AI to intelligently cancel out everything in the environment except for the voice of gamers.

The main drawback of the Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed for many buyers may be its price. Still, Logitech ships with the headset an impressive bundle of accessories that includes a more breathable earcup option. All things considered, the Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed is the best PC gaming headset for competitors who value comfort and a reliable and lag-free wireless connection.

Gaming headsets are predominantly closed-back, isolating the ears of gamers from background noises. On the other hand, studio headphones rely on an open-back design, keeping listeners aware of their environments and contributing to a more natural setting for recording. The latter approach is what the Corsair Virtuoso Pro takes to turn a typical gaming headset into an example of more professional sound equipment. Ideal for streamers and content creators, the wired Virtuoso Pro has several features that can improve the production value of a stream or YouTube video.

The Corsair Virtuoso Pro looks more like a pair of headphones than a gaming headset, with an understated look interrupted by grills on the outside of its earcups. For buyers with white keyboards and PC cases, there is also a white version of the headset with silver accents. There is no RGB lighting to be found, which may disappoint streamers with brightly lit gaming rooms. Since the Virtuoso Pro exhibits an open-backed design, the memory foam earpads float on top of the ears with minimal clamping pressure.

Inside the cans, gamers will find spacious 50 mm graphene drivers which are often used on the highest-end headphones for surgically accurate sound. The detachable omni-directional microphone included with the Virtuoso Pro is not remarkable on its own, but the headset works with software like Elgato Wave Link for advanced audio mixing to perfect the sound of broadcasts. Corsair also allows users to attach amplifiers, DACs, or connect to a wide range of consoles and other devices using the analog audio port on the headset.

Corsair's latest headset is an excellent transition from closed-back gaming headsets to gear that is worthy of use for professional broadcasts. Of course, gamers who live with other people or by noisy streets will find alternative headsets with superior noise isolation more practical. Otherwise, the Corsair Virtuoso Pro is the best PC gaming headset for streamers.

How to Choose a PC Gaming Headset

As this guide has shown, there is no shortage of options for PC gamers when it comes to gaming headsets. Unfortunately, having so many choices makes a buying decision surprisingly difficult. To streamline the process, consider these qualities first:

Build Quality

The Turtle Beach Stealth Pro was chosen as Game Rant's best overall PC gaming headset in part because of its outstanding build quality. Instead of just plastic, buyers will find that every part of this device feels premium, including its headband which is built from aluminum, and its thick memory foam cushions which resist wear and tear. Among less expensive wired headsets, the HyperX Cloud III has a well-deserved reputation of durability, proven by its predecessors surviving the most grueling esports competitions.

Sound and Microphone Quality

If a buyer is looking for the most professional-sounding monitoring and recording, then the Corsair Virtuoso Pro presents a way to improve streams and videos. The open-back nature of this headset results in more natural-sounding productions, and its cardioid microphone can compete with some standalone mics. As far as more traditional closed-back gaming headsets, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless boasts active noise-cancelling to make gaming soundscapes free of interference.

Spatial Audio Support

Surround sound-capable headsets, including the Razer Kraken V3 X, can produce more dynamic audio than what's possible with stereo devices. This extremely affordable headset is an irresistible value thanks to 7.1 channel THX spatial audio and its lightweight and comfortable construction. For gamers who can invest more money into a headset, the wireless Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed embraces DTS Headphone X 2.0 7.1 spatial audio. The Pro X 2 Lightspeed takes advantage of deep 50 mm graphene drivers for hauntingly authentic positional audio.

Wired vs. Wireless

If a gamer is usually positioned near an available analog audio jack or USB port, using a wired headset like the Astro Gaming A40 TR is less bothersome. The best wireless headsets – like the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless – are more expensive, but they provide the flexibility for listeners to roam around their rooms without limitations. Battery life is hardly a concern with this wireless device, since its battery life is an industry-leading 300 hours.

Whether it's a wired or wireless PC gaming headset, there are great options for buyers at any price point.

Price

As mentioned earlier, even some cheaper headsets are quite durable and have decent sound output, which means you do not need to spend a lot of money on a gaming headset. That said, better build quality and features like wireless connectivity come at a cost, so it's best to understand what sacrifices you are willing to make in order to meet your budget.

FAQ

Q: Are wired or wireless headsets better?

Depending on the quality of the individual headset, one may be better than the other. However, most of the time, the difference between a wireless and wired headset is indistinguishable. While the answer may have been wired over wireless in the past, technology has improved in the last several years, making wireless and wired more comparable in the modern gaming scene.

Q: Can all PC headsets be used on consoles?

Unless otherwise specified, PC headsets are typically PC only. Because they connect to the computer using a USB port, they may not be able to connect to most consoles. Ensure that the headset has compatibility with your console before making a substantial purchase.

Q: What's the average budget for a gaming headset?

The budget for a gaming headset can vary wildly depending on multiple factors. Make, build, brand, RGB, and compatibility can change the price of a headset. The lower range can be anywhere from $20-$30, while high-end gaming gear headsets can cost anywhere up to $200.