he best wireless gaming headset
gaming headsets
are based on one thing above all else: convenience. Ultimately, these are all products meant to simplify your audio setup and get you back to something you can just plug in and use. However, one final barrier stands between the gaming headset and true convenience: cords are kind of a pain. Especially when gaming in a living room, a wireless gaming headset can really make everything feel a little smoother.
However, while wireless adds convenience, it's not as simple as it may be. There are many different products out there, but don't worry, we've got you covered.
Editor's note: This article was updated on July 13, 2021 to include the Razer Barracuda X.< /p>
The HyperX Cloud Flight S is the best wireless gaming headset
the
HyperX Cloud Flight S
brings comfort and performance for a reasonable price. This is a wireless gaming headset designed for PC and PlayStation 4, and if you're switching between platforms, it's pretty much the best option, wireless or otherwise.
HyperX Cloud Flight S
Full Review
HyperX Cloud Flight S
7.7
This headset is built on a mostly plastic frame, but it doesn't feel cheap. It doesn't squeak at all, and the helmet's hinges swivel and tilt enough to accommodate most head sizes. The headset's ear pads are leatherette covered in thick memory foam, which is very comfortable but doesn't do much for gamers with glasses.
The HyperX Cloud Flight S uses a wireless RF connection with a 2.4GHz USB dongle to transmit audio between it and your platform of choice. This is good because it means audio lag won't be an issue, and generally this connection takes less power to maintain. That saved juice isn't wasted here, as the Cloud Flight S lasted around 35 hours in our tests, better than any other gaming headset on the market. In addition, this headset brings surround sound to both PlayStation 4 and PC, which no other headset does.
The HyperX Wireless Charging Base is not included with the HyperX Cloud Flight S headset.< /p>
It's a shame it doesn't work with the Xbox One or Nintendo Switch, but if you're looking for something that ticks all the boxes on the PlayStation 4 or PC, this is your best bet. It's also compatible with the HyperX NGenuity app, but you don't really need it if setting up custom presets
EQ
is not your thing.
What you need to know before buying a wireless gaming headset
The most important thing to consider when buying a wireless gaming headset is the platform you are going to play on. For the most part, there's no one-size-fits-all option on the market, and that's mostly due to limitations imposed by console manufacturers. Every platform has its weaknesses, some of which mean you won't be able to get something that works everywhere.
You won't find a Bluetooth gaming headset very often, most of the time they connect using RF units like this one.
For some reason, Microsoft in particular doesn't like headsets that work on
Xbox One
also work on
< p>PlayStation 4, so it's virtually impossible to find a wireless headset that works on both. Until fairly recently, the
nintendo-switch
did not support USB audio, whether wireless or not, and it only added per-device support. The PlayStation 4 market leader that it is, doesn't really impose strict restrictions on headphones, but some still perform better on the platform than others.
Related:
How to connect your gaming headset
If you play on
computer
, the only thing you really need to think about is managing your USB ports. Wireless gaming headsets typically don't use Bluetooth, due to lag and inconsistent console support. Instead, you'll usually find a wireless gaming headset that connects with a USB dongle using a 2.4 GHz radio frequency connection, which consumes less battery and is much less prone to rips. shifts. Plus, everything has a USB port, after all.
Ultimately, many headsets are also available in different versions for different platforms. the
Razer Thresher Ultimate
, for example, is available in a separate model for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. If there's something you like on this list, but it's not for your platform of choice, there may be a more compatible version floating around. That said, there are enough differences between the strengths of what's available on each platform, that we decided it was worth including an entry for each major console.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 runs on most platforms and brings the functionality
If your only accessible port for a gaming headset is in the back of a tower under a desk, a wireless gaming headset is probably what you should get. Built on SteelSeries' supremely comfortable Arctis frame, the Arctis 7 sports a flexible suspension band and Airweave fabric headset pads, which keep things nice and cool.
SteelSeries Arctis 7
Full Review
SteelSeries Arctis 7
7.1
The Arctis 7 uses a 2.4GHz USB wireless RF dongle to transmit audio between the headset and whatever it's connected to, so lag isn't an issue. SteelSeries claims its battery can last up to 24 hours on a single charge, although in our review we found it landed somewhere closer to 16 - still nothing to sneeze at.
The Arctis 7 features a retractable Discord. certified microphone, so it's guaranteed to play well with the program, a necessity for PC gaming. The headset also supports Hi-Res Audio, although most video games don't. And on top of all that hardware, the SteelSeries Engine app brings surround sound and custom EQ balancing, to boot. If you don't mind losing app support, you can also use it on the PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch.
The Razer Barracuda X is the best wireless gaming headset for Nintendo Switch
Wireless audio has been something of a bugbear for Switch owners. Recently, a Nintendo Switch software update opened up its dock's USB ports to support wireless audio, providing an extra level of convenience for gamers. However, the Razer Barracuda X is one of the few wireless gaming headsets that works with the Nintendo Switch when docked or undocked.
Razer Barracuda X
Full Review
< p>Razer Barracuda X7.8
The Barracuda X uses a USB-C dongle and includes a USB-A adapter for devices with older ports. Simply plug the USB-C dongle into the USB port on the bottom of the Switch and you're ready for wireless, untethered listening. You can even use the dongle with a compatible smartphone, giving you the ability to take the Barracuda X around town (which is an option since you can remove the boom mic).
The Barracuda X, while versatile, has its flaws. Insulation performance is only correct under ideal conditions and the
microphone output is oddly quiet
. Still, for under $100, you get a solid Razer headset that doesn't rely on the dodgy Razer Synapse software. We love it and hope you do too.
The Corsair Virtuoso Wireless SE delivers a premium cable-free gaming experience
At first glance, you wouldn't think that
Corsair Virtuoso Wireless SE
was designed for gamers. Featuring an aluminum construction finished with a gunmetal coating, this wireless gaming headset looks and feels like a million bucks…or at least what you'd expect for $200. Plus, it has RGB lighting built into the ear cups, letting you add a splash of color without turning the headset into a mini laser light show.
Corsair Virtuoso Wireless SE
Full Review
Corsair Virtuoso Wireless SE
8.0
The headset is designed for gamers of all platforms. The unboxing experience reveals a host of connectivity options, which include a USB-C to USB-A cable, a 3.5mm aux cable, or a 2.4GHz wireless USB dongle for gaming experience virtually lag-free and connection-free. A 20-hour battery life ensures your headset will last multiple gaming sessions, even on a single charge.
Of course, we can't talk about the Corsair Virtuoso Wireless SE without mentioning its
microphone
: one of the best we've ever tested in a gaming headset. A neutral frequency response ensures that your voice, high or low, will be reproduced with optimal clarity and volume. Although the higher frequencies lack detail, the balanced low-to-mid frequency response means your teammates are sure to hear your releases. Don't just take our word for it.
Listen to our microphone demo
and hear for yourself.
Logitech G Pro X Wireless eliminates wires but retains functionality
If you're a gamer who wants as much functionality as a company can pack into a gaming headset (or companion app), look no further than the Logitech G Pro X Wireless. p>
Logitech G Pro X Wireless
Full Review
Logitech G Pro X Wireless
7.3
This headset follows the same design principles as its predecessor, the G Pro X, sporting a metal frame and matte black plastic ear cups with large Logitech G logos etched into metal plates on the side. The headset comes with leatherette-covered memory foam ear cushions, as well as velor-covered substitutes, perfect for gamers with glasses.
The Logitech G Pro X Wireless is compatible with virtually most gaming platforms, including PC, Nintendo Switch (when docked), PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5. It uses a 2.4 GHz USB RF dongle to a virtually lag-free wireless gaming experience. Unfortunately, the G Pro X does not support 3.5mm connections of any kind, so disconnected Nintendo Switch and Xbox support is ruled out.
On PC, the Logitech G Pro X Wireless supports a host of options through the GHub app. Using Logitech's playmate app, you can access virtual surround, custom headphone EQ options (both presets and the ability to create your own), and the suite of Vo!ce microphone options. Blue Vo!ce brings tons of customization options for your microphone experience, like custom EQ, noise reduction, expander, de-esser, and more. It won't bring you to a level of streaming quality, but it will get you closer with software than most gaming headsets.
here
.
Best Wireless Gaming Headsets: Notable Mentions
The Razer logo on the side of each earbud glows subtly when you turn them on.
Corsair Void RGB Elite Wireless
: The Corsair Void RGB Elite Wireless is an excellent wireless gaming headset, with a comfortable fit, good sound and an excellent microphone. Its frame is a bit loose, but it has solid battery life, and you can customize the color of the headset's LED lights, if you're into that sort of thing.
HyperX Cloud II Wireless
: For $150, this gaming headset ticks all the boxes when it comes to a no-frills gaming headset that comes with a comfortable design, great sound quality, and impressive battery life. of 30 hours. The headset is compatible with PC, PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch when docked.
PlayStation Gold Wireless Headset
: it is ideal for people who are looking for a helmet that is as simple and direct to use. It offers virtual 7.1 surround sound, a friendly sound profile and good wireless performance backed by Sony.
Razer Kaira Pro
: This is the first Razer headset designed for Xbox gamers. It supports Xbox Wireless for cable-free and dongle-free connections for a seamless, tether-free gaming experience. It can also connect to mobile devices via Bluetooth for casual listening or for mobile gaming.
Razer Kaira Wireless
If you're an Xbox gamer looking to save a little cash, this stripped-down version of the Razer Kaira Pro has everything you need for a dongle-free gaming experience: a comfortable design, a good microphone, and good battery life. drums.
Razer Nari
Essential
: This headset features a bass-rich sound signature with 7.1 surround sound for an immersive gaming experience, all for less than $100. PC gamers get additional customization options through Synapse 3, including EQ controls to fine-tune your listening experience.
Razer Nari Ultimate
:
If these headsets don't have all the bells and whistles you want, the Nari Ultimate is probably your best bet. This headset includes all the features of the other headsets on this list, plus a vibrating headset that activates during bass sounds. It all sounds a bit free, but if that's what you're looking for, it's a great option.
SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless
:
This is one of the only wireless gaming headsets that works with the Nintendo Switch console whether docked or not.
SteelSeries Arctis 9X
: This headset supports Xbox Wireless for a cable-free connection
and
dongle-free—complete with Windows Sonic Surround Sound. It's basically one of the best headsets you can buy for the Xbox One.
Turtle Beach Stealth 600
: This is another good wireless gaming headset for under $100. It has an excellent microphone, accurate frequency response and should be compatible with upcoming consoles like the PlayStation 5.
EPOS GTW 270 Hybrid
:
This is essentially the only pair of true wireless gaming headphones on the market. The mic doesn't work when the USB-C dongle is plugged in, but there's no audio lag, good sound, and long enough battery life for decent gaming sessions.Why trust
< p>SoundGuysWe test the latest gadgets to help you save time and money.
The gaming headset space, just like many other sectors of the audio industry, is full of over-the-top language and fancy features that often don't add much to your experience. It's easy to get carried away with flashy lights and promises of immersive sound and bass so intense it'll break your eardrums (in a good way, sort of), but most of this stuff flat don't matter. That's why we review helmets and why we have lists like this.
Ultimately, I don't just review gaming headsets because I'm passionate about good sound. Almost everything I do here at SoundGuys focuses on gaming content, and that's because I've been a gamer all my life. You name it, I probably played it. I know which types of audio features are important for different types of games, and perhaps more importantly: which aren't.