The best gaming headsets come in many shapes and sizes, but they should all provide excellent sound quality for immersion in-game. Getting this right can be all that’s needed to push your gaming setup to the next level and help you land those extra few Modern Warfare or Valorant frags. We’ve collected the cream of the crop so you can choose between the best high-end PC headsets and the top budget gaming headset under $100.
Sure, it’s nice to kick back with the best computer speakers when you want to relax, but choosing the right pair of cans can help you pick out footsteps around the corner like some audio-based wall-hack and transform your entire experience when you’re playing the best PC games, binging the latest TV series, or listening to music.
Our headset reviews put Razer, HyperX, SteelSeries, Sennheiser, HyperX, and more to the test, helping you figure out what the right set of cans are for the games you play. Are you an isolationist who needs a pair to block the outside world or a set that will deliver the most natural soundscape possible, regardless of leakage? Do you need the best wireless gaming headset, or is wired just fine? Do you even need a dedicated gaming headset at all? At least that last one’s easy – yes, you do.
Here are the best headsets for gaming:
Check PricesRazer BlackShark V2
The best gaming headset is the Razer BlackShark V2.
In film, sequels are so rarely better than the original, but the opposite is true for technology. The BlackShark V2 is much more than an iterative upgrade to the 2012 original, being one of the most impressive pair of Razer gaming headphones we’ve seen. It builds upon the very same foundations that were lauded by the esports community, wrapping great audio, a crisp microphone, and sleek professional design in a staggeringly affordable sub-$100 package.
Its new 50mm TriForce Titanium drivers work overtime to separate the bass, mid, and treble, knocking our previous champion, the HyperX Cloud Alpha, down a peg in value.
In fact, Razer have cornered pretty much all markets with its latest design, as those willing to spend a little more can opt for the wireless BlackShark V2 Pro, and those on a tighter budget can give up the detachable microphone and included USB soundcard by grabbing the BlackShark V2 X. There really is something for everyone.
What we like
Detailed TriForce Titanium 50mm drivers in all models Best value Strong and stunning design
| Razer BlackShark V2 specs | |
| Drivers | TriForce Titanium 50mm |
| Frequency range | 12Hz – 28,000Hz |
| Weight | 262g |
Check pricesHyperX Cloud Alpha
Our previous best gaming headset is the HyperX Cloud Alpha.
Improving on everything the Cloud II got right, the Cloud Alpha offers an even more immersive experience at the same price, which is why it was previously considered the best headset for gaming on this list. The drivers are beyond impressive, offering frequency ranges that rival the $250 Razer Threshers. We’re talking ‘almost-but-not-quite studio reference headphone’ audio quality, here.
The noise-cancelling microphone has been improved, specifically tuned to block out the sound of HyperX’s very own Alloy keyboard and the famously piercing sound of Cherry MX blue switches. The Cloud Alpha headphones also feature noticeably improved noise isolation, preventing any chatter around you from ruining the listening experience.
The HyperX Cloud Alpha offers excellence in design, durability, and quality, all while maintaining a fantastic price. Kingston took their time redesigning the Cloud headset, and with good reason. The HyperX Cloud II needed something utterly spectacular to justify a redesign, and they’ve delivered just that with the Cloud Alpha. The only reason its been dethroned, really, is the slightly higher asking price than the Razer BlackShark V2 at the time of writing.
What we like Stunning audio quality Great value Robust design
| HyperX Cloud Alpha specs | |
| Drivers | 50mm |
| Frequency range | 13Hz – 27,000Hz |
| Weight | 298g |
Read the PCGamesN HyperX Cloud Alpha review for our full verdict and score.
Check PricesSteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless
The best wireless gaming headset is the SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless
Going cordless is bliss, ditching the wire in favour of free movement so you can slam your arms on the desk with gamer rage without getting tangled up – much like the best wireless gaming mouse, the only issues are lag and battery life. The SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless solves this problem with its handy dock, which gives a lossless connection to prevent lag and houses a secondary battery for you to tag in whenever the other is running low.
It comes at a higher price than most on this list, but the price is offset with audiophile-quality sound, an impressively wide frequency rage, and cloud-like comfort that’s emphasised by its lightweight build and ski-band design. Plus, you can bring wireless sound to your PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5- making it one of the best headsets for PS5 too – and your mixer, if you own a fancy setup.
What we like Lossless wireless connection Hot-swappable battery so you never run out Choice of 2.4G and Bluetooth connectivity
| SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless specs | |
| Drivers | 40mm neodymium |
| Frequency range | 10Hz – 40,000Hz |
| Weight | 357g |
Read the PCGamesN SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless review for our full verdict and score.
Check pricesSennheiser GSP 370
The best wireless gaming headset for travel is the Sennheiser GSP 370.
The Sennheiser GSP 370 is the gold standard for wireless gaming headset battery life, making it perfect for travelling with the best gaming laptop. With 100 hours of uninterrupted play, you won’t need a hot-swappable battery or to reach for the charging cable mid-game… unless you’re really forgetful.
Even beyond that battery life, you can expect top-quality audio from the maestros at Sennheiser, offering just enough bass to make sure you really feel all the ruckus in-game without washing out the mids and highs. And to top it all off it’s cosy and comfortable, too.
What we like 100-hour battery life Fantastic audio Comfortable
| Sennheiser GSP 370 specs | |
| Drivers | 50mm neodymium |
| Frequency range | 20Hz – 20,000Hz |
| Weight | 285g |
Read the PCGamesN Sennheiser GSP 370 Wireless review for our full verdict and score.
Check pricesAsus TUF Gaming H3
The best budget gaming headset under $50 is the Asus TUF Gaming H3.
Asus is fending off serious competition with the TUF Gaming H3. While the Corsair HS50 had us smitten when it first launched, the added comfort of the Asus TUF Gaming H3 has it taking the best cheap gaming headset crown just before the busy holiday buying season.
Breaking the bass-heavy gaming mould, the TUF Gaming H3 offers a pleasant profile suited to the most gun-heavy FPS games as much as any rhythm game. The microphone similarly offers clear audio that won’t see you hampering your teammates with muffled cries in-game.
What we like Comfortable Solid audio Tough
| Asus TUF Gaming H3 specs | |
| Drivers | 50mm |
| Frequency range | 20Hz – 20,000Hz |
| Weight | 298g |
Read the PCGamesN Asus TUF Gaming H3 review for our full verdict and score.
check pricesEPOS h3
The best mic headset is the EPOS H3.
EPOS’s latest headset not only offers great comfort and sound quality, but a studio-quality boom microphone that sounds so good it can even be seen a decent alternative to the best gaming microphone.
Its light 270g construction, along with a memory foam-filled headband and ear cushions makes the EPOS H3 extremely comfortable even on the longest gaming stints. It sits at a premium price point, but that’s further backed up by superb build quality.
What we like Incredible microphone quality Comfortable memory foam cushioning Lightweight construction
| EPOS H3 specs | |
| Drivers | N/A |
| Frequency range | 10Hz – 30,000Hz |
| Weight | 270g |
Read the PCGamesN EPOS H3 review for our full verdict and score.
Check pricesRazer Thresher Ultimate
The best surround sound headset is the Razer Thresher Ultimate.
In sheer audio terms, there’s only one other wireless headset capable of matching the quality of the Thresher Ultimate and that’s the SteelSeries Arctis Pro. The Thresher maybe doesn’t have the tonal separation of the stunning HyperX Cloud Alpha, or the same super broad soundscape, but it still delivers incredibly crisp, detailed sound. And even though it’s a Razer gaming headset the bass response isn’t overblown and doesn’t crush the highs or mid-tones. Where it does stand out is in the addition of Dolby Surround. immersing you in the latest titles like Cyberpunk 2077 – accessible via a discrete button on the base station, and the easy on-ear controls.
The battery life is decent, rated at around 16 hours, which bore up during our testing. But there seems to be no easy way to tell how much capacity is left in your battery – having a level indicator would be nice. The wireless connection, however, is strong and stable and the audio excellent. And don’t worry about the PS4 label, as this just refers to the blue colouring, but if you’re looking for the best headset for Xbox One too, then pick up the green themed one – both work with PC just fine.
What we like Excellent sound quality Surprisingly subtle Robust audio connection
| Razer Thresher Ultimate specs | |
| Drivers | 50mm |
| Frequency range | 12Hz – 28,000Hz |
| Weight | 408g |
Read the PCGamesN Razer Thresher Ultimate review for our full verdict and score.
Check pricesSennheiser GSP 500
The best headset for bass is the Sennheiser GSP 500.
Sennheiser hasn’t forgotten its roots in high-end audio, and that’s evidently clear with the GSP 500. Its open-back design creates a spacious sound profile that makes for a bassy soundscape, whether you’re diving into the best action games or listening to music. While it’s not the cheapest gaming headset out there, the Sennheiser pedigree just might convince you.
The build quality is great, the features decent, and the sound quality almost unmatched in the gaming space. Its price may be too big a hurdle for some, but, in return, you receive a fantastic gaming headset from one of the most reputable audio companies going.
What we like Great build quality Excellent, open soundscape Impressive bass response
| Sennheiser GSP 500 specs | |
| Drivers | Neodymium magnet |
| Frequency range | 10Hz – 30,000Hz |
| Weight | 358g |
Read the PCGamesN Sennheiser GSP 500 review for our full verdict and score.
Check pricesCorsair HS70 Pro
The best budget wireless headset is the Corsair HS70 Pro.
Corsair’s HS70 Pro is a wireless gaming headset that not only competes with wired headsets in quality and sound, but also in price, making it the best cheap wireless headset. This low-cost wireless set features the same comfortable design, simple styling, and clean audio reproduction as the wired HS50 headset from Corsair. The price for cutting the cord from its tethered sibling to help you manage cables isn’t too dear, either.
This headset offers a solid microphone to complement the clear audio from those two 50mm drivers, and the battery life is a hefty 16 hours to keep you gaming without distraction.
What we like Solid wireless connection Fantastic value Decent audio
| Corsair HS70 Pro specs | |
| Drivers | 50mm |
| Frequency range | 20Hz – 20,000Hz |
| Weight | 330g |
Read the PCGamesN Corsair HS70 review for our full verdict and score.
Check pricesSennheiser GSP 670
The most sturdy gaming headset is the Sennheiser GSP 670.
Sennheiser knows exactly what it takes to produce great audio, and its GSP 670 wireless gaming headset is one of the few on the market that refuses to crank up the bass with little regard for crafting balanced, quality sound. And it does it in a frame that will take a lot of punishment – perfect if you’re a little butterfingered and tend to smash your headphones down onto the best gaming desk when taking them off.
It does, however, face stern competition on that front from the Arctis Pro Wireless. Nevertheless, it’s still a superb wireless headset and the only one that will appeal to players seeking Sennheiser’s signature sound without cables getting in the way.
What we like Great audio Responsible bass Incredibly robust build
| Sennheiser GSP 670 specs | |
| Drivers | Neodymium magnet |
| Frequency range | 10Hz – 23,000Hz |
| Weight | 398g |
Read the PCGamesN Sennheiser GSP 670 review for our full verdict and score.
Check pricesAudeze LCD-1
The best headset for audio is the Audeze LCD-1.
The best audiophile headphones are open-backed ones. These headphones aren’t closed off on the back of each earcup, making for a less fatiguing experience and delivering the best audio quality because the sound isn’t bouncing around inside a closed ear-cup creating strange reverberations. It also means you get broad, expansive soundscapes perfect for open-world gaming titles like GTA 5 or listening to music.
The use of planar magnetic drivers means that soundscape is rendered with the most detailed, most accurate audio around. And Audeze has nailed PM drivers for gaming, with the LCD-1 headphones taking that stunning audio further with this classic open-back design.
What we like Planar magnetic drivers Open-back, expansive soundscapes Great for games and music
| Audeze LCD-1 specs | |
| Drivers | 90mm planar magnetic |
| Frequency range | 10Hz – 50,000Hz |
| Weight | 250g |
Read the PCGamesN Audeze LCD-1 review for our full verdict and score.
Check PriceCorsair HS60 Haptic
The most immersive gaming headset is the Corsair HS60 Haptic.
Corsair gaming headphones aren’t just about listening to the PC games you play, but experiencing them in all their glory. Of course, the fuller tones provided by any of our suggested headsets will help suck you into the battlefield of Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War, but nothing is quite as immersive as the physical feedback of the Corsair HS60 Haptic.
As its name suggests, the HS60 Haptic provides haptic feedback much like the rumble on a controller, meaning you can feel every gunshot and explosion through the earcups. You’d be right in thinking this is initially a jarring experience, but its directional approach can give you a distinct advantage in identifying whether the bullets are flying past you from the left or the right.
What we like Unique bass-driven haptic feedback Detailed audio Adjustable EQ levels with iCUE software
| Corsair HS60 Haptic specs | |
| Drivers | 50mm neodymium |
| Frequency range | 20Hz – 20,000Hz |
| Weight | 420g |
check priceBest gaming headset deals
Amazon Prime Day deals might be just around the corner, but if you want a big saving on a premium set of cans, the Logitech G635 is currently a fraction of its MSRP. In the US, it has a 44% discount, bringing the price down to $78.99 from $139.99. There’s a similar deal in the UK with 33% off, cutting the cost to just £87.43 compared to its £129.99 list price.
It has low-distortion 50mm drivers and support for 7.1 surround sound, which is a winning combination for crystal-clear audio. When plugged in via USB, you can change RGB lighting on the sides, tune audio, and adjust the built-in boom microphone.
wired vs wireless gaming headsets
While things were different a few years ago, wireless models now have zero compromise against wired models. Thanks to super fast 2.4GHz wireless connections, latency is comparable to a wired connection, and improved batteries mean wireless models such as the Sennheiser GSP 370 can offer up to 100 hours of battery life.
do all gaming headsets have surround sound?
While headsets such as the Razer Thresher Ultimate offer native surround sound thanks to built in Dolby Surround, it’s possible to get virtual surround sound on any headset on Windows 10. You just need to enter the sound tab under settings, before clicking “Device properties” under output and enabling “Spatial sound”.
headset microphones
All the headsets in our roundup include built-in mics, but the one attached to the EPOS H3 is one of the best we’ve heard. It’s possible to improve the quality of your built-in microphone, if you’ve got a GPU from Nvidia. Its RTX Voice tech was recently enabled on all its cards ranging back to the GTX 600 series, and it massively helps to reduce background noise such as clicky keyboards.
Gaming headset Round-Up
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