Best gaming headset 2021 for PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S and

A good pair of headphones is key to victory in many games - especially shooters like Valorant, Fortnite and CSGO - where hearing a single footstep from a wayward enemy could be the difference between a delicious chicken dinner and a despicable defeat. That's why we've rounded up our top recommendations for the best gaming headsets for the money on the market right now.

Whether you prefer the lower cost and audio fidelity of wired headphones or the convenience of wireless headphones, we've got you covered. We've also included recommendations for the PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, and PC, so no matter what system you're playing on, you'll be able to find at least a few top-tier gaming headsets to consider, each. much better than the built-in speakers of your TV or monitor. We'll also consider both open- and closed-back headphones, as the former tend to provide a wider soundstage conducive to locating enemies, while the latter minimize sound leakage to ensure you don't disturb your housemates.

Before we get into the recommendations, it's worth mentioning what we'll be looking for when choosing the best gaming headsets. We want a comfortable headset that you can wear for hours without discomfort, perfect for marathon gaming sessions. Sound quality is key too, so you can hear every sound clearly and fully immerse yourself in the game. Naturally, you'll also need to communicate with your friends or teammates, so a built-in mic with good noise attenuation is a must. also important. Finally, we'd also like to see cross-system support, so that if you have a console and a PC, or multiple consoles, you can use the same headset on both.

With that settled, let's jump right into Digital Foundry's picks for the best gaming headphones available in 2021. Click the links to jump straight to the pick you're interested in, or scroll down to read the full article! You can also find answers to

frequently asked questions

at the end of the page.

Best Gaming Headset 2021

SteelSeries Arctis 7X and 7P

- best wireless gaming headset

Razer Blackshark V2 / V2X

- best wired gaming headset

Epos H3 p>

- runner-up, best wired gaming headset

Xbox Wireless Headset

- best Xbox Series X/S headset

Logitech G Pro X Wireless

- best PS5 headset

Corsair HS70 Bluetooth

- best Switch headset

Fnatic React

- best value gaming headset

Roccat Elo X Stereo

- best cheap gaming headset

LucidSound LS15P / LS15X

- best cheap wireless gaming headset

SteelSeries Arctis Pro

- best premium wired gaming headset

Audeze-Penrose

- best premium wireless gaming headset

Astro A40 TR with MixAmp Pro

- best open back gaming headset

Epos GTW 270 Hybrid

- best in-ear gaming headset p>

Nuraphone + Gaming Microphone

Sennheiser GSP 600

- best rugged gaming headset

Creative SXFI Gamer

- better surround sound on a gaming headset

Asus ROG Delta S

- best hi-res gaming headset

HyperX Cloud Orbit S

- best planar magnetic headset

Bonus: Sound Blaster G3

- best DAC for PS4 and Switch

Watch the latest episode of DF Weekly, where the staff at Digital Foundry discuss the hottest topics in gaming technology.

Watch on YouTube

Best Wireless Gaming Headset: SteelSeries Arctis 7X and 7P

the

Arctis 7X and Arctis 7P

are the best gaming headsets available, thanks to their comfortable design, impressive durability, and excellent sound quality. The new models replace the previous Arctis 7 (2019), with 24-hour battery life (was 20), compatibility with next-gen consoles and a look to match - the white/blue or black/blue 7P for fans for PlayStation and the black/green 7X for Xbox users.

The fabric suspension headband that debuted on the original Arctis 7 remains key to the comfortable, well-balanced fit of the new models. Controls on each earbud of the 7X allow you to balance overall volume and the mix between chat and game sounds, although the 7P doesn't allow for this mixing and instead uses its dial for adjusting the effect. local. Bass, treble, and mids are all well represented, and while the sound isn't the cleanest or widest we've heard, it's still excellent for a gaming headset. Microphone performance is also outstanding, even in noisy environments.

::

The 20 best Xbox One games you can play right now

Arctis 7 headsets connect via a low-latency 2.4GHz wireless connection to a USB-C dongle, which can then be plugged into next-gen consoles as well as PCs, Nintendo Switch and Android smartphones. This only includes devices with full-size USB-A ports, as a USB-C to USB-A adapter is included in the box. You can also use a straight 3.5mm cable, which is when listening to music on the go or while the headphones are charging. Unfortunately, SteelSeries didn't choose to include USB-C charging here, which means you'll have to stick with an archaic Micro USB cable for this purpose.

If you're only getting the Xbox Series X/S or PlayStation 5, our recommendations are simple - get the 7X if you're going for an Xbox and the 7P if you're going for the PlayStation. If you're planning on getting both - even possibly - then the Arctis 7X makes more sense, as it supports both consoles for the same price and the only downside is a slightly larger dongle.

Best Wired Gaming Headset: Razer Blackshark V2/V2X

the

Razer Blackshark V2

is the best wired headset for the money we've tested. First off, these headphones are a delight to use for gaming or music, with a wide soundstage, accurate sound, and good imaging delivered by newly designed 50mm drivers that Razer says it will also use for the next helmets. This is a stereo headset, which we recommend for competitive gaming, but a 7.1 surround sound mode with "THX Spatial Audio" is also available for games where you want maximum immersion. The BlackShark V2's mic is also quite reasonable, although we'd recommend a more alternative

professional quality for streaming

.

The design of the BlackShark V2 is also worthy of some praise. For starters, the ears are sealed tight to block out distracting background noise - useful if you're clinging to Valorant or trying to get some work done while working from home with your spouse. The athletic knit-covered memory foam ear cushions stayed comfortable for hours, no doubt helped by the headset's light weight - just 262 grams. There's a handy volume button on the left earcup, and the microphone is detachable. The BlackShark V2 also lacks any kind of RGB lighting, with only green cables and a subtle Razer logo on each earcup betraying the gaming orientation of this design.

In terms of connectivity, three options are offered: dual 3.5mm (for PC), single 3.5mm (for PC, mobile, Switch, PS5 and Xbox) and USB-A (for PS5 and PC). This means you can use these headphones on the go just as easily as at home on your PC or console. USB is provided via an included dongle that adds simulated 7.1 capabilities, microphone settings (like a noise gate and sidetone), and compatibility with Razer's Synapse software. If you could do without all that, consider the

BlackShark V2 X

, which abandons the sound card to achieve a much more competitive price. (There is also the

BlackShark V2 Pro

, which adds wireless connectivity with the same great sound and comfort, making it a good alternative to the SteelSeries Arctis 7X and 7P in the "best wireless headset slot".)

Finalist, Best Wired Gaming Headset: Epos H3

If you're not a fan of Razer's design, our runner up for best wired headset in the headset category is the

Epos H3

. This headset is aiming for a mid-range price point (£100), well below the company's usual top-end models, but the most important qualities have all been preserved. Sound quality is excellent, with a neutral profile and plenty of detail, and the microphone is one of the best we've heard at this price point.

The industrial design here is also impressive, proving light and comfortable even when wearing glasses, and despite a more plastic build the H3 still feels sturdy in the hand. Compatibility is wide too, with two finely braided 3.5mm cables in the box: a short cable with a right-angle TRRS plug for mobile devices, consoles, and newer PCs and laptops, and a slightly longer one that splits into two 3.5mm TRS ends for computers with separate mic and headphone ports. The only real point of complaint for me is the earpiece's volume dial, which takes two fingers and a few seconds of concerted effort to go from its highest to lowest settings - and the lowest setting doesn't help to cut off the helmet, which is unusual.

Regardless of that minor annoyance, the Epos H3 is an excellent translation of the company's traditional strengths - audio quality, build quality and comfort - down to a more mainstream price point, and for that it deserves our runner-up spot.

Best Xbox Series X/S headset: Xbox wireless headset

the

£90

/

$100

official

Xbox Wireless Headset

is the best headset we've tested for Xbox Series X and Series S. It's lightweight and comfortable for hours, has good battery life, and has easy controls, with each earbud twisting to adjust volume or game/chat mix. It connects to Xbox without a dongle, using low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless, and can also simultaneously connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth - perfect for listening to music or chatting on Discord while playing games .

It's by far the cheapest headset to have this feature built in, but the Xbox Wireless Headset isn't lacking in fundamentals either, with great sound (although the bass is heavy), good tuning (with custom EQ settings) and a choice of three surround sound modes (including free Dolby Atmos). Check out our

Xbox Wireless Headset Review

for more, but we believe the Xbox Wireless Headset is by far the best value Xbox Wireless Headset on the market. p>

the

SteelSeries Arctis 9X

is another excellent headset that combines dongle-free Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth, which offers neutral audio reproduction, a comfortable "ski goggle". headband and autonomy of about 20 hours. Mic quality is also strong, with an easy-to-position retractable design. Convenient volume, game/chat balance and connectivity controls ensure this headset isn't frustrating to use either.

Another option is the

Corsair HS75 XB

. I've loved using this headset with games like Tetris Effect and Call of Duty Warzone, where the bass-heavy profile and Dolby Atmos surround sound make for a grand experience. The included mic is also impressive, producing clear speech for easy communications in multiplayer and cooperative games. Considering its comfortable fit, great sound, and long list of features, the HS75 XB is an excellent choice.

Best PS5 headset: Logitech G Pro X Wireless

Our favorite PlayStation headset right now is the

£190

/

$200

Logitech G Pro X Wireless

, which uses a 2.4 GHz USB Dongle to connect to PS5, PS4, PC or Switch (docked). This cross-platform headset offers great comfort for both glasses and non-glasses wearers, with the option of velor or memory foam ear cushions, as well as impeccable build quality with lots of obvious metal. The 50mm drivers inside deliver a neutral sound, with a slight emphasis on the midrange that can help highlight footsteps. Surround sound is provided by 3D Audio on PS5 or DTS Headphone:X on PC; I much prefer this arrangement as it tends to deliver more consistent results than each headset manufacturer rolling their own simulated surround solution onto the headset itself.

Wireless headphones tend to suffer from mic quality, but the solid hardware here plus the addition of PC-based Blue Voice software makes them one of the best-sounding options in the category. Battery life is reasonable, around 20 hours, with easy (if not fast) USB-C charging. One area I would particularly like to highlight is usability; Logitech has done well to integrate a large number of controls (power, volume, mic mute) onto a single earbud while ensuring that each has a distinct feel. Overall, the G Pro X is a great choice for any competitively-minded PS5 or PC gamer.

In terms of alternatives, our previous pick for the PS5 is the

SteelSeries Arctis 9

, and it's still a good option. It offers excellent sound quality, a comfortable fit and Bluetooth compatibility. the

Turtle Beach Stealth 700 G2

is another alternative with both 2.4GHz and BT wireless support. It offers a tighter fit than the Arctis 9 with stronger passive isolation, making it a better choice for gaming in noisy environments. The headset is extremely well built, despite its plastic build, and offers plenty of on-ear controls. Unfortunately, the chat mix and volume wheels sit side by side, making it easy to use the wrong one, and the voice alerts are painfully loud regardless of the headset volume setting. Sound quality is good, maybe a bit behind the Arctis 9, and the mic is also up to snuff, so if the Stealth 700 G2 is cheaper or passive noise cancellation is important, this might be fine to PlayStation and PC gamers.

Best Switch headset: Corsair HS70 Bluetooth

the

Corsair HS70 Bluetooth

(

$80< /p>

/

£100

) is the perfect approach helmet...

unorthodox

from Nintendo multiplayer games that limit party chat to a smartphone app. With the HS70, you can be connected to the Switch via 3.5mm and your phone via Bluetooth simultaneously, allowing you to hear game audio and chat with your friends in comfort. You can use the HS70 with PC (USB, 3.5mm, BT), PS5 (USB, 3.5mm, BT) and Xbox Series X/S (3.5mm), giving this headset a excellent flexibility. The same simultaneous wired + Bluetooth connection also works if you want to be on Discord while gaming on console; perfect for cross-platform Warzone games.

We found the HS70 comfortable in our testing, despite warming your ears after each gaming session, with rationally designed controls and convenient USB-C charging. Audio quality is a little better than the Arctis 1 Wireless we previously had as our Switch's top pick, with a V-shaped frequency response that emphasizes bass and treble at the expense of mids; mic quality is also good, especially when used over a wired connection.

As an alternative, the Arctis 1 Wireless for Xbox

(

$100

/

£100

) offers full wireless connectivity for Switch, as well as Xbox Series X/S and PS5. That makes it a great option if you're looking for a lighter headset and don't need Bluetooth support for voice chat.

Best Value Gaming Headset: Fnatic React

As well as being a long-time esports team, Fnatic also produces a strong line of branded gaming peripherals, including

excellent mechanical keyboards

. Now a truly premium headset designed expressly for competitive gaming has joined the mix with the £60/$70

Fnatic React

.

Fnatic used the design of the popular HyperX Cloud line of gaming headsets as a starting point when designing the React, featuring a durable metal frame and comfortable plush ear cups. Building from a proven design makes sense for Fnatic, as a smaller player in the space, especially when this particular setup is so popular with gamers. However, I did notice some crackling when twisting the headset gently, something I haven't encountered with any HyperX headset.

Although the design is very familiar, the audio quality is slightly newer. Fnatic chose to emphasize the highs and mids while flattening the lows, delivering a bright sound signature with plenty of clarity that makes it easier to hear that single wandering footstep that can give you an edge in competitive games. like CS:GO or PUBG. The good seal produced by the plush ear cups also provides excellent passive noise isolation, making it an ideal choice for playing competitive or immersive games where you don't want to be disturbed by the world around you. Finally, the quality of the mic is surprisingly good, and it's removable if you prefer to use a

micro USB or XLR

in place.

All things considered, the React is perfectly suited for competitive multiplayer games, thanks to its clarity and comfort, especially considering its killer £60/$70 price tag. Considering how often I play Counter-Strike, these headphones could sit on my desk for a long time.

If you want 7.1 surround sound, the best value headphones to include that we've tested are the

MSI Immersion GH61

. Although costing under £100, these headphones are top quality, with a choice of 3.5mm or USB connections, leather ear cups

Where

in fabric, a foldable design, a big line in remote control, a good retractable microphone and a foam-lined carrying case. The actual sound quality here is also competitive, with Onkyo drivers delivering a balanced sound signature with a good image. Combined with the good passive noise isolation, these are great headphones for gaming. The only notable area where MSI has cut corners to keep the price reasonable is in the materials, which are simple plastics - but honestly the GH61 still feels as well built as headphones that cost twice as much. All in all, a great value option that will appeal to a wider range of people than the more competition-focused Fnatic React.

Best Cheap Gaming Headset: Roccat Elo X Stereo

Roccat's The entry-level helmet

Elo X Stereo

is much better than its price suggests. It connects to Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, mobile and PC with a simple 3.5mm wired connection and has a decent detachable microphone. We found the headset to be lightweight and comfortable for hours on end thanks to its memory foam ear cups - and it even lived up to its 'Glass Relief' branding with no added discomfort for eyeglass wearers. . You can't expect incredible audio quality from a headset at this price, but the headset's larger-than-average 50mm drivers still mean it sounds better than most TV or speaker speakers. built-in monitor and many entry-level headphones. At £40/$40 this seems like a winner.

The same comfortable design is also available with the Elo 7.1 Surround, a USB gaming headset, and the Elo X Air, a wireless headset. The latter two work via USB, limiting their use to PCs, PS4, PS5 and Switch, but allowing for RGB lighting and 7.1 surround sound. It's a good choice at their price if you can use the extra features, although the cheapest stereo option is still our top pick.

Best Cheap Wireless Gaming Headset: LucidSound LS15P

The

LucidSound LS15P and LS15X

are two almost identical models at £100/$100 - the highest price you could reasonably call 'affordable' for a wireless headset. As the name suggests, the LS15P is designed for PlayStation and the LS15X for Xbox, but both share the same 50mm drivers, sensitive control scheme and carbon fiber effect design. The light weight (270 grams), soft headband and only moderate clamping force mean these headsets are comfortable to wear and the plastic construction feels relatively solid in the hand. Sound quality is good overall, with a reasonable image but relatively little detail, making them better suited for gaming rather than music or movies.

The controls here are probably the most innovative thing about the headset; you can roll the outer edge of the left earbud to adjust the volume and the right earbud to adjust the chat mix (on PC). It's convenient, but makes an unpleasant scratching noise. As well as wheels built into the earcups, you get dedicated on/off and EQ buttons, a Micro USB charging port, 3.5mm input and mic jack - there's also a built-in mic for mobile use. The main plug-in microphone requires careful positioning but offers decent quality, while the built-in mic doesn't require setup but feels a bit distant. Finally, battery life is average at 15 hours; normally you don't see better results without upgrading to something like an Arctis 7X/7P which is closer to 25 hours. For the price, the LS15P and LS15X are a reasonable choice.

@Captain_Jason_H The adapter you are referring to is a Microsoft product. Not something we can bundle, and not some… https://t.co/GxJzzPyl8b

— Turtle Beach Support Mon Aug 23 17:05:06 +0000 2021

Best premium wired headset: SteelSeries Arctis Pro + GameDAC

the

Arctis Pro + GameDAC< /p>

has the best sound of any PC or PS4 gaming headset on the market, achieved by pairing a well-tuned high-end 40mm headset with a quality DAC (digital-to-analog converter) that replaces the often lackluster DACs built into most in-car sound cards and game consoles. This delivers excellent sound quality from a variety of sources, including standard gaming audio to lossless Hi-Res music, all easily adjustable using a graphic equalizer and a built-in mixer. However, the GameDAC does not allow you to make volume adjustments on your Windows PC; you'll need to use the GameDAC's oversized volume wheel or those on the headphones themselves.

The Arctis Pro is also incredibly comfortable, with the same fabric suspension headband that shines on the rest of the Arctis range. The headset also has a well-regarded extendable microphone, with the option for the mic to turn on when muted so you don't end up talking to each other. If you don't need wireless connectivity and can afford the premium price, the Arctis Pro+ GameDAC is the best gaming headset we've ever tested.

Best premium wireless headphones: Audeze Penrose

The

£300

/

$300

Audeze-Penrose

and

Audeze Penrose X

are the best high-end wireless headphones we've tested to date. The headset uses planar magnetic drivers rather than traditional dynamic drivers, allowing for excellent sound quality at the expense of bulk. The Penrose is defined by excellent clarity and separation, making it easy to pick out detail even in chaotic soundscapes, with a slightly warm sound overall. Combined with a good low latency audio connection via a 2.4GHz wireless dongle and a good microphone, you get one of the best headsets for PS5 or Xbox Series X. The headset also offers Bluetooth and 3.5mm connectivity , allowing use with a wide range of other devices - including wireless and Bluetooth simultaneous playback, meaning you can listen to music on your phone while playing the PS5.

Note: The vanilla Penrose is designed for use with PlayStation and the Penrose X for Xbox, but the Penrose X also works with the PS5 (like other Xbox headsets that use a dongle) and is therefore ideal if you own both consoles.

I found the Penrose quite uncomfortable at first, but after a week of use its high clamping force has subsided and it now ranks among the most comfortable options I've tried despite its weight. Audeze tells me that the headphones use a common ear cup size, so it's possible replacement cushions of different materials could be sold down the line if there's enough interest (I'd be up for a set of velor ear cushions that let out more bass but are more comfortable with glasses, for example).

Battery life is average, at around 15 hours, with USB-C charging taking a few hours; you get an audible low battery warning when you have an hour or less left.

The Penrose has its quirks - I felt a quiet hiss in the left earbud at low volume, which required turning off the -tone side in the Windows app to resolve. The headset also disappears from your list of audio devices in Windows when the headset turns off to save power, which means sound may start coming out of your speakers unexpectedly. You can change the shutdown time in the Audeze HQ app to work around this issue if you mind.

Despite the inconvenience, these weren't game breakers for me, and Audeze's status as a small company means it should be able to resolve these sorts of issues quickly. Overall, the Penrose's great sound and wide cross-compatibility means it's still easy to recommend.

If you're willing to accept a bulkier headset in exchange for better battery life, the

Sennheiser GSP 370

is an option with unique abilities. It boasts a robust design, good sound reproduction and a battery life of up to 100 hours. We found its sound signature warm and welcoming, with reasonable imaging and a wider soundstage than you'd expect for closed-back headphones, and the mic is one of the best we've tested. The GSP 370 is a little heavy at 285 grams, but it's well balanced and comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Connectivity is handled via a 2.4GHz USB dongle, limiting connectivity to PC, PlayStation and Switch (when docked), with no option for Bluetooth or 3.5mm inputs.

If comfort is more important than battery life, then the

HyperX Cloud 2 Wireless

(

$150

/

£150

If money isn't an issue, there are also a host of other great options close to the £300/$300 price tag. Here are three examples that we tested and rated highly, although the Audeze Penrose, GSP 370 and Cloud 2 Wireless offer better value in our book:

Epos Sennheiser GSP 670

: better sound but less autonomy than GSP 370 (

£279

/

$300

)

SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless

: comfortable with clever dual-battery charging (

£320

/

$330

)

Astro A50

: great sound, comfortable and available in Xbox or PS5 variants (

£300

/< /p>

$300

)

Best open-back gaming headset: Astro A40 TR with MixAmp Pro

The best open-back gaming headset we've had I've tested so far the

Astro A40 TR with MixAmp

. These premium wired headphones are comfortable, with soft memory foam ear cups and a lightweight design, making them easy to wear for hours, even for glasses users.

How does it sound? The default setting is warm with a nice emphasis on low and low-mid tones, but the Astro Command Center software makes it easy to find a more neutral EQ setting. Imaging is quite good, helping you locate enemies in-game, and there's the option for stereo and simulated 7.1 surround. As with all open-back headphones, some sound escapes and you'll also be able to hear background noise, making them better suited to quiet environments. The microphone is also of good quality and can be moved to either side of the headset or removed entirely if you prefer.

The headphones are available on their own, but we recommend that you take the version with the supplied MixAmp. The MixAmp provides convenient dials for adjusting volume and game/chat balance, compatibility with Astro Command Center software, as well as easy connections to PCs and Xbox One or PS4 units depending on the variant you purchased.

While they're not strictly gaming headsets, Sennheiser's HD 598 and HD58X Jubilee are also great options. These open-back headphones deliver neutral sound reproduction and a wide soundstage, with velor ear cups and a lightweight design that stays comfortable for hours. These headphones do not come with a built-in microphone, so we recommend pairing them with one of the

best gaming microphones

, like a clip-on ModMic or a standalone unit like the Blue Yeti.

Best in-ear gaming headset: Epos GTW 270 Hybrid

the

£179

/p>

$199

Epos GTW 270 Hybrid is something quite special: a set of wireless in-ear headphones designed for gaming. While we normally associate these Airpods-style headphones with Bluetooth - which is also on offer here - the GTW 270 also comes with a USB-C dongle, unlocking a low-latency aptX Low Latency connection on PC, Switch, Android phones and PlayStation consoles. Having a low latency option is essential for gaming, as it ensures that what's happening on screen syncs with what you hear and that you get audio information as soon as possible.

J'ai testé les écouteurs dans Counter compétitif -Les matchs Strike et Warzone, et n'ont trouvé aucun problème avec la connexion sans fil - le lien est resté stable sans retard perceptible par rapport à un casque filaire. Et tandis que les écouteurs intra-auriculaires n'ont jamais une scène sonore super large, l'imagerie raisonnable ici aide à localiser les ennemis par le son de leurs pas. Sinon, le son est impressionnant, comme on peut l'espérer du nom Epos, avec des basses étonnamment présentes, des médiums riches et des aigus nets. Vous pouvez jouer avec une application EPOS sur PC pour régler l'égaliseur et activer le son surround simulé si c'est votre préférence.

En termes d'isolation, la conception intra-auriculaire signifie qu'il y a peu de fuite sonore dans les deux sens, permettant vous concentrer sur votre jeu. Il n'y a pas d'annulation active du bruit ici, mais ce n'est pas vraiment nécessaire non plus. L'isolation nécessite un bon ajustement avec les écouteurs, avec trois tailles différentes fournies dans la boîte. J'ai trouvé les écouteurs confortables à porter pendant quelques heures, mais mes oreilles sont devenues un peu douloureuses par la suite. Les écouteurs dureront environ cinq heures avant d'avoir besoin d'être rechargés dans leur boîtier en métal, qui offre 20 heures supplémentaires d'autonomie et se recharge via USB-C. Le GTW 270 s'éteindra automatiquement si l'écouteur droit est retiré de votre oreille, ce qui aide à maintenir la durée de vie de la batterie au cours d'une journée.

Malheureusement, le GTW 270 a un défaut majeur pour les jeux - le les deux microphones intégrés aux écouteurs ne fonctionnent pas sur la connexion USB-C en raison d'une connexion à bande passante, vous devrez donc utiliser un

micro de jeu autonome

pour communiquer dans les jeux d'équipe ou passer au Bluetooth à latence plus élevée. Ce n'était pas un problème pour moi, car j'ai un micro monté sur le bras sur mon bureau, mais cela pourrait retirer le GTW 270 de la contestation pour quiconque préfère un casque tout-en-un.

Sinon, il y a beaucoup à aimer ici - le GTW 270 est confortable, durable et sonne bien, avec une option unique de faible latence qui en fait les meilleurs écouteurs que nous ayons testés pour les jeux.

Meilleur bruit Annulation du casque de jeu: Nuraphones + microphone de jeu

Le Nuraphone est

weird

- mais il sonne aussi assez phénoménal. The idea here is that the Nuraphone uses in-ear drivers for its treble and mids plus over-ear drivers for bass, while also providing strong passive and active noise cancellation. The recently released Gaming Microphone add-on converts the Bluetooth headphones to 3.5mm wired only operation (suitable for all consoles and PC), but adds one of the best mics on a gaming headset.

The initial setup is quite involved - you'll be asked to use the Android or iPhone app to develop a custom EQ based on the shape of your ears, then upgrade the headset's firmware over a leisurely 20 minute period if an update is available. Following this, you can plug in the Gaming Microphone add-on and hook them up to your PC - a

3.5mm splitter

isn't provided, so you'll need to purchase your own if your PC's 3.5mm audio port doesn't support combined mic/headphone connections. You'll be welcomed by name, with a readout of the current battery life (required for ANC) and then the headphones will start working.

Thankfully, the result of this long setup process is excellent audio with pinpoint imaging - plus significant bass response if you knock the in-app slider all the way. The in-ear portion of the headset is quite comfortable too, with the option of three tip sizes in the box, but they still may not suit everyone. This really is one of these things that you have to try for yourself, as I honestly didn't expect the level of comfort and aural clarity that I got. If you're willing to spend the significant asking price, you'll be rewarded with both a top-notch noise cancelling Bluetooth headset for mobile use

and

the best noise-cancelling gaming headset we've tested.

Best tough gaming headphones: Epos Sennheiser GSP 600

If you're constantly breaking your headphones by running them over in your chair or tossing them off in a fit of rage, then something a little tougher could be just what you're after. The best build quality we've found on a gaming headset we've tested is Epos' excellent

GSP 600

- which is also available in white as the GSP 601 and in blue/tan as the GSP 602. No matter which colour you choose, the headset feels extremely robust with its metal and plastic construction.

Of course, something that's well-built but rubbish isn't worth buying - but thankfully the GSP 600 is also a really good wired headset too. It offers incredible noise isolation, thanks to its thick ear cups and moderate clamping force, making it easy to lose yourself in a virtual world. The sound quality is good too, with an mild emphasis on bass that makes cinematic singleplayer games sound fantastic - although this does mean that more subtle highs and mids can be lost, making it less suitable for competitive multiplayer games like CSGO, Valorant or Warzone. The flip-down microphone works well enough, and the chunky volume wheel on the right ear cup makes it easy to adjust your sound in between firefights. Overall, it's a strong option - befitting its premium price point.

If you'd prefer a wireless headset, then the

Corsair Virtuoso SE

's aluminium construction, USB-C charging and bright sound signature make it a strong choice. However, the Virtuoso SE's high clamping force out of the box makes it slightly less comfortable than the GSP 600, consigning it to our back-up choice for this slot.

Best surround sound in a gaming headset: Creative SXFI Gamer

Tea

Creative SXFI Gamer

delivers some of the best surround sound we've experienced on a gaming headset. Interestingly, it slightly alters its surround sound implementation based on the topology of your ear, which it calculates based on photographs of your ear that you provide via the company's (slightly buggy) smartphone app. This provides a really lush aural environment, perfect for enjoying single-player games. If you prefer more competitive fare, then there's a battle mode which emphasises sounds like footsteps and reloads to help you track down your Warzone or Valorant opponents. I found this most helpful in games with more detailed soundscapes, like Warzone and Battlefield 5, as competitive-focused games like CSGO and Valorant already have quite a stark audio mix that makes it easy to locate an errant misstep.

Even with its special modes disabled, the SXFI Gamer still impresses. The headset is relatively comfortable to wear for long periods, with suitably cushy ear cups, and the clamping force here is just right. The microphone has a built-in pop filter, which works well, although the mic does feel much more sensitive to correct placement than others I've tried. The USB-C connection means that audio processing duties are handled internally, rather than relying on potential suspect motherboard audio, and also allows for tasteful RGB backlighting. Ergonomics are good, with well-differentiated buttons backed up with aural confirmation of which mode is enabled and a smooth volume wheel. The only major complaint I had concerned the cable, which produces a ton of noise when it's handled or it rubs against the edge of your desk. Given that this looks to be a regular USB-C to USB-C cable, replacement could be an option if this bothers you too. Overall, the SXFI Gamer is a strong headset that delivers on its key promises without any major stumbles. If a good surround sound implementation is key for you, then the SXFI Gamer is definitely worth a go.

If you have a higher budget, the

ROG Theta 7.1

is another USB-C gaming headset that offers an even better surround sound implementation, thanks to four discrete ESS 9601 drivers - three 30mm drivers for the centre, rear and sides, respectively, and one 40mm driver for the front. This provides rich, full-bodied sound with plenty of warmth - ideal for listening to music or playing immersive single-player games. Convenient earcup volume controls, a performant "AI-powered" mic and RGB lighting are also included, ticking all the boxes for a high-end gaming headset. While the ROG Theta sounds great, the heavy weight of the headset makes it fatiguing for long gaming or listening sessions. The USB-C and USB-A connectivity allows easy use with the PC, PS4, Switch and Android smartphones, but the thick cables emerging from each side of the headset are hard to ignore. Despite these flaws and a relatively high asking price, the ROG Theta is an intriguing option.

Another possibility for surround sound junkies is the

JBL Quantum One

. This headset has a number of novel features, including active noise cancellation and an HRTF surround sound mode that adapts to each user based on measurements taken by a special in-ear mic worn under the headset itself during setup. Unfortunately, this latter mode didn't work well for me, with the initial setup process playing extremely loud noises into my ear, pausing and then repeating ad infinitum for about 10 minutes. Later, I pushed the earbud in even further and completed the setup successfully, but the results weren't noticeably better than the default tuning.

Despite this initial stumbling, the other surround sound modes performed better, and features like head tracking were quite fun to experience for the first time. The headset's acoustics were solid as well, with good imaging, although the relatively high weight of the headset made it uncomfortable for spectacled-me over long gaming sessions. However, others who tested the same headset found the surround sound much more engaging and the fit more comfortable, so I think the Quantum One is still worth a try.

Best high-resolution headset: Asus ROG Delta S

There's plenty to like about the Asus ROG Delta S. Its audio credentials are impressive, offering support for hi-res audio and MQA through services like Tidal, and it's probably these that contribute to its high price. The 50mm drivers here provide a detailed and neutral sound, with much less prominent bass than the average gaming headset. That means some setpiece moments in games lose a bit of their impact, but clarity is unmatched.

You can adjust the mix with a graphical equaliser and several presets in the provided Armoury Crate software, which also allows you to choose RGB lighting effects (toggled between 'on', 'off' and 'reactive' via a simple hardware switch). The microphone gets access to Asus' AI features for cancelling out unwanted background noise, and they work well - but you do lose a bit of detail and clarity with this turned on. The Armoury Crate app is only available on PC, but you can use the headset via its wired USB-C connection on Android, PS4 and PS5 too.

Beyond the audio quality, this is one of the most comfortable headsets I've worn in years, with a lightweight (288g) design, D-shaped ear pads and the perfect amount of clamping force. Normally I can only wear headsets for a few hours before my ears become sore, and I accepted that as a normal part of PC gaming while wearing glasses, but here I didn't face that problem. I still took off the headset, but more because my ears got a bit warm - and that's much more quickly rectified! If you don't like the feel of the default synthetic leather pads, there are fabric replacements in the box to try too.

Best planar magnetic headset: HyperX Cloud Orbit S

Tea

£300

/

$300

Cloud Orbit S is a curious 3.5mm or USB gaming headset, combining the same planar magnetic drivers that we loved on the Audeze Penrose with some of the head tracking surround sound technology of the even more expensive Audeze Mobius. If you're not familiar with either headset, all you need to know is this: you get extremely accurate sound, thanks to the planar drivers, while the head tracking element adds a new dimension to music and cinematic games, adjusting the stereo mix as you turn your head. I played through 70 hours of Horizon Zero Dawn with this headset, and exploring new areas or experiencing new weather conditions like snow, storms or rain often spurred me to spend a few seconds not doing anything at all, just listening. Of course, you can also disable this feature, as I like to do for more competitively-minded games.

Apart from the sound, the Cloud Orbit S ticks all the relevant boxes. It's comfortable to wear for a few hours at a time (and longer if you're lucky enough to not wear glasses), thanks to its thick pads and balanced design, despite its weight. The microphone quality is in the upper echelon of headsets we've tested and the extremely long cable means you can stray from your computer without difficulty. There are still some oddities here - such as needing to manually turn on what is a wired headset and potentially reset your audio devices in apps like Discord - but by in large everything works as it should. The only sticking point is the price, but that's practically a feature of planar magnetic devices. For the money, you do get something quite special - and if you'll use the head tracking functionality, it might be worth choosing this over the wireless Audeze Penrose.

Bonus: Best DAC for PS4 and Switch: Sound Blaster G3

There are plenty of great DAC/AMP combos for use with desktop and laptop PCs, but those that effortlessly support consoles like the PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch are much rarer. The best console DAC we've tested so far is the Sound Blaster G3, a tidy USB-C dongle that packs a ton of functionality into a compact and reasonably priced package.

Let's take a look at what's included. At the bottom of the device, there are three inputs for headphones, microphones and optical (via a short adapter cable), while on the other end is a USB-C plug that can be converted to full-size USB (with another included adapter). This setup covers you on the PS4, Switch and computers of all kinds, but while Xbox is supported via the optical input you won't be able to use voice comms here.

The left side of the device allows you to mute or adjust the volume of your mic, while the right side allows you adjust the volume of your headphones. There's also a switch here; flip it and you'll be able to adjust the mix between game and chat volume on PS4 or PC - so you can turn down your annoying teammates to focus on the game or vice versa. Finally, there's a button at the top that enables another key feature, the built-in footstep amplifier mode, intended to give you an edge in competitive shooters.

The whole package works well, with each setting you'd need within easy reach. It's great to be able to adjust things like the chat mix or enable the footstep boosting equaliser setting without needing to dive into game menus - something that's likely to get you killed in games like Call of Duty Warzone. The boost in audio quality is evident out of the box, and you also have the ability to customise your EQ (either by hand or by selecting per-game presets) using apps on Android, iOS or Windows.

At around £55/$60, the Sound Blaster G3 is a significant investment. However, it is something that you can use with a wide range of consoles and computers, or even Android phones, and you'll get some benefit out of it even for listening to music or playing non-competitive games. For that reason, if you want to take your audio quality seriously and you're using wired headphones, the G3 is a sensible acquisition.

For more external sound card recommendations, check out our picks for the

best gaming sound cards

.

Frequently questioned answers

Is it worth using 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound?

It depends. If you want to immerse yourself in a game or movie, the virtual surround sound mode offered on many gaming headsets can be fun to play with. You can even add surround sound processing to headphones that don't come with it on PCs running Windows 10 and the Xbox One using Windows Sonic or Dolby Atmos for Headphones. However, if you're looking at surround sound to gain a competitive advantage, my recommendation is to keep surround sound disabled - the processing that tries to fake surround sound often makes it harder to hear footsteps or other quiet audio cues, adds delay and tends to remove detail. Instead, look for headphones with a wider audio stage, eg many open-back headphones, as this will actually make it easier to place your enemies on the map based on the noises that they're making.

Should I get wireless headphones?

Wireless headphones give you a lot of freedom, so you can make yourself a sandwich in the kitchen or sit on the opposite side of the couch without worrying about taking off your headset or rerouting its cables. However, you will need to recharge your wireless headset every few days or weeks, and it's certainly annoying when your headphones go dead mid-firefight. If you tend to sit in different positions while gaming or just hate being tethered to your desk, wireless is a sensible choice; otherwise, save the money and the hassle of recharging and get wired headphones instead.

What brands should I consider?

This is no by no means an exhaustive list, but headphones from HyperX, SteelSeries and Sennheiser tend to be well-respected. Razer, Logitech, Turtle Beach and Astro have also made some great headsets in their day, although they've also produced a few relative stinkers as well. Ultimately though, gaming headsets can vary massively from model to model, so it's best to look for reviews on the headset you're considering rather than shopping by brand alone.

Why do headsets that work for PS4, PS5 or PC not work for Xbox?

Largely because PlayStation 4/5 and PC support connection options that the Xbox One does not. The PS4 and PC both support headsets that connect via 3.5mm (either dual 3-pole or 4-pole), optical, Bluetooth and USB. Meanwhile, the Xbox One didn't include 3.5mm on its first-generation controllers, requiring the use of an

Xbox One Stereo Headset Adapter

to add this option. The Xbox also only works with certified USB devices and uses its own proprietary wireless standard rather than Bluetooth, so you'll need to look for headsets that are specifically marketed as Xbox Series or Xbox One compatible. The final option is getting a headset that connects via optical (S/PDIF), although this isn't available on the Xbox Series X or S. We've marked the connection options for each headset we recommended above for your information.

How can I improve the sound of my existing headphones?

Good and totally not just made up question! A lot of this comes down to personal preference, but we prefer to turn off audio "enhancements" like surround sound and aggressive equaliser settings; you want things to be as "bare metal" as possible if you trust in the intent of sound engineers and headphone designers alike. From there you can use a DAC, which takes audio processing duties off your PC or console and entrusts it instead to dedicated hardware which tends to do a better job, removing jitter and changing the characteristics of the sound for the better. Desktop or portable DACs like the

Audioengine D1

,

Fiio E10K

gold

Cambridge Audio DacMagic XS

cost around £100/$100 or less and can improve audio quality substantially. (We also highlighted the Sound Blaster G3 just above!) Of course, you can spend way more if you want to go even further into the audiophile realm.

What about speakers?

We've added a round-up of the

best computer speakers from £50 to £250 here

.

Will you support the Digital Foundry team?

Digital Foundry specialises in technical analysis of gaming hardware and software,using state-of-the-art capture systems and bespoke software to show you how wellgames and hardware run, visualising precisely what they're capable of. In orderto show you what 4K gaming actually looks like we needed to build our own platformto supply high quality 4K video for offline viewing. So we did.

Our videos are multi-gigabyte files and we've chosen a high quality provider to ensurefast downloads. However, that bandwidth isn't free and so we charge a small monthlysubscription fee of €5. We think it's a small price to pay for unlimited access totop-tier quality encodes of our content. Thank you.

Support Digital Foundry

Find out more about the benefits of our Patreon