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 dastardly 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 low cost and audio fidelity of wired headsets or the convenience of wireless headsets, we've got you covered. We've also included recommendations for the PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, and the 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 in your TV or monitor. We'll also consider the open-back 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 roommates.
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 is also essential, so you can hear every sound clearly and fully immerse yourself in the game. Of course, you'll also need to communicate with your friends or teammates, so a built-in mic with good noise attenuation is 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
- 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 headphones
Nuraphone + Gaming Mic
- best noise canceling gaming headset
Sennheiser GSP600
- best rugged gaming headset
Creative SXFI Player
- the best 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
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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. with next-gen consoles and a matching look - the white/blue or black/blue 7P for PlayStation fans 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 earcup of the 7X allow you to balance overall volume and mix between cat and game sounds, although the 7P does not allow for this mixing and instead uses its dial for sidetone adjustment. Bass, treble and mids are all well represented, and although the sound isn't the cleanest or widest we've heard, but it's still excellent for a gaming headset. Microphone performance is also exceptional, even in noisy environments.
::
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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, i.e. when you're 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 keep an archaic Micro USB cable for this purpose.
If you're only going to get 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 the two - even possibly - then the Arctis 7X makes more sense, as it supports both consoles at the same price and the only downside is a slightly larger dongle.
Best Wired Gaming Headset: Razer Blackshark V2 / V2X
The
Razer Blackshark V2
are the best wired headphones for the money we've tested. First off, these headphones are a delight to use for gaming or music, with a wide soundstage, crisp sound and good imaging provided by drivers 50mm drivers that Razer says it will use for future headsets as well. 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 plus
professional-grade alternative for streaming
.
The BlackShark V2's design is also praiseworthy. For starters, the ears are sealed well 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 convenient volume knob 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 ear cup betraying the gaming orientation of this design.
On the connectivity side, 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). You can use these headphones on the go as easily as at home on your PC or console. USB is provided via an included dongle which adds simulated 7.1 capabilities, microphone settings (like a noise gate and side tone) and compatibility with Razer's Synapse software. If you could do without all that, consider the
BlackShark V2 X
, which ditches the sound card to achieve a much more competitive price. (There's 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 "best wireless headphones".)
Finalist, Best Wired Gaming Headset: Epos H3
If you're not a fan of Razer's design, our runner up in the best wired headsets category is the
Epos H3
.These headphones are aiming for a mid-range price (£100), well below the company's usual high-end models, but the most important qualities have all been preserved.Sound quality is excellent, with a neutral profile and lots 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 also wide, with two 3.5mm cables finely braided 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 cable that splits into two 3.5mm TRS plugs ends for computers with separate mic and headphone ports. The only real point of complaint for me is the earpiece volume dial, which takes two fingers and a few seconds of concerted effort to move from its highest settings to the lower - and the lowest setting does not cut the headphones, 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 second place.
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 offers easy controls, with each earbud rotating to adjust volume or game/chat mix .It connects to Xbox without a dongle, using low-latency 2.4GHz wireless, and can also simultaneously connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth - perfect for listening to music or chatting on Discord while playing games. games.
It's by far the cheapest headset to pack in this feature, but the Xbox Wireless Headset isn't lacking in fundamentals either, with great sound (even if the bass is heavy), good adjustability (with custom EQ settings) and a choice of three surround sound modes (including free Dolby Atmos). See 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.
Another great headset that combines dongle-free Xbox Wireless with Bluetooth is the
SteelSeries Arctis 9X
, which provide neutral audio reproduction, a comfortable "ski goggle" headband, and approximately 20 hours of battery life. The mic quality is also strong, with an easy-to-position retractable design. /chat and connectivity commands ensure this headset isn't frustrating to use either.
Another option is the
Corsair HS75 XB
.I have loved using this headset with games like Tetris Effect and Call of Duty Warzone, where the bass-rich profile and Dolby Atmos surround sound make for a great experience.The included mic is also impressive, producing clear speech for easy communications in multiplayer and cooperative games. Given 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 2.4GHz USB dongle to connect to PS5, PS4, PC or Switch (docked). memory foam, as well as pristine build quality with lots of metal evident. highlights 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 provide more consistent results than each headphone manufacturer rolling out their own surround solution simulated on the helmet itself.
Wireless headphones tend to suffer from mic quality, but the solid hardware here and the addition of Blue Voice PC-based software make 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'd particularly like to highlight is usability; Logitech has done well to integrate a large number of controls (power, volume, mute of the mic) on 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 great sound quality, a comfortable fit, and Bluetooth compatibility. Another alternative with 2.4 GHz and BT wireless support is the
Turtle Beach Stealth 700 G2
.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 construction, and offers plenty of on-ear controls. Unfortunately, the chat mix and volume wheels are side by side, making it easy to use the wrong one, and the voice alerts are painfully loud regardless of the headphone 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, it might suit players on PlayStation and PC.
Best Switch headset: Corsair HS70 Bluetooth
The
Corsair HS70 Bluetooth
(
$80
/
£100
) is the perfect headset for Nintendo...
unorthodox
approach to multiplayer gaming that limits party chat to a smartphone app. With the HS70, you can be simultaneously connected to the Switch via 3.5mm and your phone via Bluetooth, 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 (3.5 mm), giving this headset great flexibility. The same simultaneous wired + Bluetooth connection also works if you want to be on Discord while playing on console; perfect for cross-platform Warzone gaming.
We found the HS70 to be comfortable in our tests, despite warming ears after each gaming session, with rationally designed controls and convenient USB-C charging. Audio quality is a bit better than the Arctis 1 Wireless which we previously had as Switch's top pick, with a V-shaped frequency response that emphasizes lows and highs at the expense of mids; mic quality is also good, especially when in use over a wired connection.
Alternatively, the
Arctis 1 Wireless for Xbox
(
$100
/
£100
) offers full wireless connectivity for Switch, as well as Xbox Series X/S and PS5. This 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, with 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 didn't experience with no HyperX headphones.
While the design is very familiar, the audio quality is slightly newer. Fnatic has chosen to emphasize the highs and mids while flattening the lows, delivering a bright sonic signature with plenty of clarity that makes hearing easier that single errant step that can give you an edge in competitive games like CS:GO or PUBG. to 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
instead.
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 much Counter-Strike I play, these headphones could sit on my desk for a long time.
If you want 7.1 surround sound, the best headset we've tested to include it is the
MSI Immerse GH61
.Although costing under £100, these headphones are top quality, with a choice of 3.5mm or USB connections, leather
Where
cloth ear cups, a foldable design, a chunky in-line remote, a good retractable microphone, and a foam-lined carrying case. The actual sound quality here is competitive too, with Onkyo drivers providing a balanced sound signature with good imaging. with the good passive noise isolation these are great headphones for gaming. The one notable area where MSI has cut corners to keep the price reasonable is in the materials, which are simple plastics - but honestly the GH61 stands Still feels as well-built as headphones that cost twice as much. Overall, 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 entry-level
Elo X Stereo
the headset 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 was lightweight and stayed comfortable for hours thanks to its memory foam ear cups - and it even lived up to its 'Glass Relief' branding with no added discomfort for eyeglass wearers. 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 built-in TV or monitor speakers and many entry level headphones. At £40/$40 this looks 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. They're a good choice at their prices 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 nearly identical models at the £100/$100 mark - 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, responsive control scheme and carbon fiber effect design. 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 reasonable imaging but relatively little detail, making them better suited for gaming rather than music or movies.
The controls here are probably the newest thing about the headset; you can roll the outer edge of the left earcup to adjust the volume and the right earbud to adjust the chat mix (on PC). It's convenient, but makes an unpleasant scratching noise. In addition to the wheels built into the earcups, you get dedicated on/off and EQ buttons, a Micro USB charging port, 3.5mm input and a microphone 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, the lifespan of battery 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.
Best premium wired headset: SteelSeries Arctis Pro + GameDAC
The
Arctis Pro + GameDAC
has the best sound of any PC or PS4 gaming headset on the market, achieved by combining high-end, well-tuned 40mm headphones with a quality DAC (digital-to-analog converter) that replaces often lackluster DACs built into most onboard sound cards and game consoles. all easily adjustable using a built-in graphic equalizer and mixer. However, the GameDAC does not allow volume adjustments to be made on your Windows PC; you will need to use the GameDAC's oversized volume wheel or those headphones themselves.
The Arctis Pro is also incredibly comfortable, with the same fabric suspension headband that shines on the rest of the Arctis range. 'it's muted so you don't end up talking to each other. If you don't need wireless connectivity and can afford the high price tag, the Arctis Pro+ GameDAC is the best gaming headset you've we have ever tested.
Best premium wireless headphones: Audeze Penrose
The
£300
/
$300
Audeze Penrose
and
Audeze Penrose X
are the best premium wireless headphones we've tested to date. The headphones use 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 easier to pick out detail even in chaotic soundscapes, with a slightly warm sound overall. Combined with a good low-latency audio connection via a 2.4 GHz 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, that is, you can listen to music on your phone while playing PS5.
Note: The vanilla Penrose is intended for use with PlayStation and the Penrose X for Xbox, but the Penrose X also works with 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 me says the headset uses a common earbud size, so it's possible replacement pads of different materials could be sold down the line if there's enough interest (I'd favor 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 comes with its quirks - I experienced a quiet hiss in the left earbud at low volume, which required disabling side tone in the Windows app to fix it. The headset also disappears from your list of audio devices in Windows when the headphones turn off to save power, which means that sound may start coming out of your speakers unexpectedly. You can change the turn off time in the Audeze HQ app to Workaround this if it bothers you.
Despite the annoyances, these weren't game-breakers for me, and Audeze's status as a small company means they should be able to resolve these sorts of issues quickly. Overall, the great sound and the Penrose's wide cross-compatibility means it's always 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 capabilities. It boasts a rugged design, good sound reproduction, and up to 100 hours of battery life. We found its sonic signature to be warm and welcoming, with reasonable imaging and a brighter soundstage. wider than you'd expect for a closed-back headset, and the mic is one of the best we've tested. The GSP 370 is a bit 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
) is an attractive alternative. Much like the legendary wired version loved by esports pros and casual gamers alike, the Cloud 2 Wireless are extremely comfortable, well-built, and sound great with a neutral profile and good imaging. Battery life is respectable too, at 30 hours, with USB-C fast charging available.
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 we've tested and rated highly, although the Audeze Penrose, the GSP 370 and the Cloud 2 Wireless offer better value for money 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
/
$300
)
Best open gaming headset: Astro A40 TR with MixAmp Pro
The best open-back gaming headset we've tested so far is 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 eyeglass 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 to locate enemies in-game, and there's the option for stereo and simulated 7.1 surround. suitable for quiet environments. The microphone is also of good quality and can be moved to either side of the headset or removed entirely if preferred.
The headset is available on its own, but we recommend that you choose the version with the included 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.
Bien qu'il ne s'agisse pas strictement de casques de jeu, les HD 598 et HD58X Jubilee de Sennheiser sont également d'excellentes options.Ces écouteurs à dos ouvert offrent une reproduction sonore neutre et une large scène sonore, avec des oreillettes en velours et un design léger qui reste confortable pendant des heures.Ces écouteurs ne sont pas livrés avec un microphone intégré, nous vous recommandons donc de les coupler avec l'un des
meilleurs microphones de jeu
, comme un ModMic à clipser ou une unité autonome comme le Blue Yeti.
Meilleur casque gaming intra-auriculaire : Epos GTW 270 Hybrid
The
179£
/
$199
L'Epos GTW 270 Hybrid est quelque chose d'assez spécial : un ensemble d'écouteurs intra-auriculaires sans fil conçus pour les jeux.Alors que nous associons normalement ces écouteurs de style Airpods à Bluetooth - quelque chose qui est également proposé ici - le GTW 270 est également livré avec un dongle USB-C, déverrouillant une connexion aptX Low Latency à faible latence sur PC, Switch, téléphones Android et consoles PlayStation.Avoir une option de faible latence est essentiel pour les jeux, car cela garantit que ce qui se passe à l'écran se synchronise avec ce que vous entendez et que vous obtenez des informations audio dès que possible.
J'ai testé les écouteurs dans des matchs compétitifs de Counter-Strike et Warzone, et je n'ai trouvé aucun problème avec la connexion sans fil - la liaison est restée 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 fuites sonores dans les deux sens, vous permettant de 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 - les deux microphones intégrés dans les écouteurs ne fonctionnent pas sur la connexion USB-C en raison d'une connexion à bande passante, vous devrez donc soit 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 casque de jeu à réduction de bruit : Nuraphones + microphone de jeu
Le Nuraphone est
weird
- mais cela semble aussi assez phénoménal.L'idée ici est que le Nuraphone utilise des haut-parleurs intra-auriculaires pour ses aigus et ses médiums, ainsi que des haut-parleurs supra-auriculaires pour les basses, tout en offrant une forte suppression passive et active du bruit.Le module complémentaire Gaming Microphone récemment publié convertit les écouteurs Bluetooth en un fonctionnement filaire de 3,5 mm uniquement (adapté à toutes les consoles et PC), mais ajoute l'un des meilleurs micros sur un casque de jeu.
La configuration initiale est assez complexe - il vous sera demandé d'utiliser l'application Android ou iPhone pour développer un égaliseur personnalisé basé sur la forme de vos oreilles, puis de mettre à niveau le micrologiciel du casque sur une période de 20 minutes si une mise à jour est disponible.Ensuite, vous pouvez brancher le module complémentaire Gaming Microphone et le connecter à votre PC - un
Séparateur 3,5 mm
n'est pas fourni, vous devrez donc acheter le vôtre si le port audio 3,5 mm de votre PC ne prend pas en charge les connexions combinées micro/casque.Vous serez accueilli par votre nom, avec une lecture de la durée de vie actuelle de la batterie (nécessaire pour l'ANC), puis les écouteurs commenceront à fonctionner.
Heureusement, le résultat de ce long processus de configuration est un excellent son avec une imagerie précise, ainsi qu'une réponse significative des basses si vous appuyez à fond sur le curseur de l'application.La partie intra-auriculaire du casque est également assez confortable, avec l'option de trois tailles d'embouts dans la boîte, mais elles peuvent ne pas convenir à tout le monde.C'est vraiment l'une de ces choses que vous devez essayer par vous-même, car honnêtement, je ne m'attendais pas au niveau de confort et de clarté auditive que j'ai obtenu.Si vous êtes prêt à dépenser le prix demandé important, vous serez récompensé par un casque Bluetooth antibruit de premier ordre pour une utilisation mobile
and
le meilleur casque de jeu antibruit que nous ayons testé.
Meilleur casque gaming robuste : Epos Sennheiser GSP 600
Si vous cassez constamment vos écouteurs en les renversant sur votre chaise ou en les jetant dans un accès de rage, alors quelque chose d'un peu plus dur pourrait être exactement ce que vous recherchez.La meilleure qualité de construction que nous ayons trouvée sur un casque de jeu que nous avons testé est l'excellente qualité d'Epos
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
The
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
The
£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
Adaptateur pour casque stéréo Xbox One
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
Where
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
.
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