Best Gaming Headsets for 2024 – Everything You Should Know

According to the NLM (National Library of Medicine), many studies indicate that playing too many video games can lead to mental and physical health problems. However, that doesn’t stop people from enjoying their computer time. Therefore, players must take frequent breaks, stand and stretch, and have appropriate equipment.

One of the most important things a gamer needs is a comfortable gaming headset. Having decent audio quality will improve your experience and ground you in the game like nothing else.

Though you should focus on upgrading to quality gaming setup accessories as you have the money, the headphones will make or break your experience. There are countless products on the market, making it tough to know which one to choose. Luckily, I’ve broken things down for you. Let’s dive in.

Best Gaming Headset of 2024 – Seven Top Choices

With countless brands on the market, it’s hard to narrow down the best gaming headset for 2024. However, that’s just what I’ve done. You’ll find seven ideal options, making it easier to review the top choices and make a decision.

1. Corsair HS55 Stereo – The Best Budget Gaming Headset

If you’re looking for the best budget gaming headset, you’ll like the Corsair HS55. It features a microphone, a decent build quality, and excellent audio functionality. In fact, I’d say it’s hard to find such a well-rounded product for so little anywhere else.

Though Corsair is known for budget models, the HS55 is more comfortable than its previous products. There are plush earcups on this one, whereas the HS50 has stiff foam that doesn’t budge.

Likewise, the HS55 is lighter than other models, which makes it easy to wear for long periods. I’ve actually had them on for a full eight hours without any pain in the ear or head.

However, I sweat more on hot days, so the leatherette material isn’t ideal. Still, it’s pretty common for budget gaming headsets, so I don’t really call this a bad thing.

Corsair HS55 Stereo

124 reviews

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Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Good value	Doesn’t have a “premium” touch
Light and comfortable for long-term wear	Fiddly microphone arm
Flip-up microphone arm
Superb microphone quality

2. HyperX Cloud Alpha – The Best Wired Gaming Headset Overall

I believe the HyperX Cloud Alpha is the overall best gaming headset of 2024. It’s one of the most widely available products on the market, and the brand often provides discounts to help you save money.

The most special thing about Cloud Alpha is how it sounds. While that’s a given, I’ve found it’s so easy to get distracted by other features that don’t really matter when searching for a gaming headset. However, this one is a beast. The audio is of high quality, and you can’t find anything better at this price point.

HyperX has achieved excellent audio quality because it uses a two-chamber design. Each ear cup features two separate drivers that help to reduce distortion of the bass. Therefore, you get maximum articulation.

After creating the best gaming desk setup with what you have, you’ll enjoy hanging this headset up and seeing it gleam. Plus, it’s so comfortable to wear; I often forget it’s on my head, making me look a little strange when I pause for a drink.

HyperX Cloud Alpha - Gaming Headset

153 reviews

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Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Superb value (can often find discounts)	Doesn’t feature a flip-to-mute microphone
Great audio
Comfortable to wear for long periods

3. Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X – The Best Wired Gaming Headset for Audiophiles

Whether listening, mastering, or mixing audio, you need the best wired gaming headset, and Beyerdynamic has you covered. The DT 900 Pro X is very well-built and offers a level of comfort that’s hard to beat. In fact, I think the velour ear pads are heavenly, and they’re replaceable. This means you’ll always have something that feels good to wear.

Likewise, the headband is made of spring-steel material with memory foam padding. Therefore, it will stay close to your head and “seal in” the sound, regardless of your environment.

These aren’t noise-canceling headphones, so you’ll hear what’s happening in the background. However, it won’t be as transparent.

With so many small gaming room ideas out there, you can easily create the perfect setup with less space. Then, hang this headset from the peg on the desk, and you’re ready for anything.

DT 900 PRO X

1240 reviews

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Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Works with almost anything	Too-tight clamping (must adjust yourself)
Solid construction	No in-line or detachable microphone
Highly comfortable
Incredible audio performance

4. HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless – The Best Wireless Gaming Headset

Since I named the HyperX Cloud Alpha (wired) the best overall gaming headset, the wireless version must also make the list. In fact, they’re quite similar in style and functionality, but you don’t have to deal with a cord.

Personally, I dislike cords strewn all over the room because it negatively impacts my gaming room décor. Luckily, the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless version keeps my space clutter-free and relaxing.

My favorite thing about these headphones is the long-lasting battery. You can jam out or play for up to 300 hours without a charge. However, the equipment is still comfortable and light on your head.

I tested the 300-hour battery life thoroughly. The manufacturers claim that the unit features an 80% charge, and I wanted to know if it would hold up. Therefore, I listened to music and played games for a full workday, and it didn’t drop at all. After roughly one week, it was still sitting at about 50%. That’s highly impressive and made me extremely happy.

HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless

123 reviews

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Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Very comfortable	Not the loudest headphones on the market
Precise and powerful audio (perfect for gaming)	Microphone lacks compared to other brands
Ideal for listening to music
Long-lasting battery life

5. AceZone A-Spire – The Best Gaming Headset (Noise-Canceling)

Do you like playing games in a noisy environment? I often attend gaming competitions, which are so loud. While the excitement is worth it to me, it’s difficult for the players to focus on what they’re doing.

Therefore, a comfortable gaming headset is essential, and noise-canceling technology can be beneficial. AceZone A-Spire is my top choice in this situation.

Though designed for tournaments and competitions, it’s ideal for people who play games in their homes, as well. Regardless of the sounds you encounter, the other players won’t hear them.

For example, I play many games where I converse with others through my keyboard. Since I type excessively loudly, my goal was to find a headset that “hid” that aspect. No one can hear me banging away at the letters, allowing everyone to stay focused.

AceZone A-Spire

124 reviews

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Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Handy mobile app	Not wireless for PC
Comfortable for long periods	High price
Crystal-clear microphone
Excellent noise-cancellation technology

6. Audio-Technica ATH-M50XSTS StreamSet – The Best Gaming Headset (Streaming)

If you’re a streamer, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50XSTS StreamSet is the best gaming headset for you. Most of the products I’ve worn have poor-quality microphones, requiring you to buy a dedicated mic. While they’re good for yelling at friends and using game chats, they can’t cut it when you need your voice to sound excellent.

Average gamers might not mind their voice sounding slightly garbled because they’re focused on great sound. However, streamers, content creators, and podcasters will love the Audio-Technica brand. Often, I create videos of myself playing games, requiring me to have the best of both worlds.

I will say that the ATH-M50XSTS StreamSet is highly dedicated to monitor mode. Therefore, you won’t find any other buttons on the headset. Though it makes sense, you’ll still need to use your PC for volume control.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50XSTS StreamSet

3 reviews

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Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Plug-and-play style	Too expensive for being wired
Excellent cans	No sound control directly on the headset
Best headset microphone I’ve tried

7. Audeze Maxwell – The Best Wireless Gaming Headset for Audiophiles

The Audeze Maxwell features planar magnetic drivers, making it the best wireless gaming headset for audiophiles. I believe it delivers an impactful and rich sound that will take those who use it far while gaming or listening to some tunes.

Planar magnetic drivers use a concept different from what’s often found in traditional gaming headsets. Each one features a flat, large diaphragm to produce the audio through magnets. Therefore, you get a broader, more natural sound with tons of base.

Audeze Maxwell

180 reviews

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Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Good microphone	Poor software
Comfortable
Charges quickly
Long battery life

How We Tested Each Gaming Headset

Testing a gaming headset isn’t as easy as you think. I prefer to use it as my daily go-to for one full week. That ensures I experience the sound and what it’s like to use each one for a longer period of time.

However, I also test every headset while playing different genres, such as battles, shooters, and racing games. These make for the best scenarios because it’s easier to reveal distortion and muddiness while focusing on positional tracking.

I’ll also record a sample of my voice and compare the recordings from all the models. Still, it doesn’t end there. Ultimately, I also make sure that typing noises from my keyboard tray won’t interrupt the audio’s quality.

Finally, I will listen to tons of audio music. Picking my favorite tunes and jamming out while testing helps me work through the highs, mid-tones, and bass. Knowing a song well ensures I focus on the quality of what I’m hearing.

Final Thoughts on the Best Gaming Headsets of 2024

As you start purchasing and using different gaming accessories, it’s important to think about the headset you’ll wear. Keep in mind that this piece of equipment is something you’ll have on your head for many hours (if you’re like me and play a lot of games).

I talked about the seven best gaming headsets of 2024, helping you learn more about each one. These are the cream of the crop and fit different styles, budgets, and other needs. However, only you can decide what’s right for you. Take this information, build on it, try out a few products for yourself, and become a gamer your friends will envy.

Best Gaming Headset FAQs

It’s tough to lay every tidbit of information out for my readers, and it’s also a lot of data all at once. Therefore, I know some people might skim down to this FAQ list to answer specific questions. Here are the things I think most people want to know:

What is the best gaming headset?

Some people play different types of games on various devices, so they want the best gaming headset overall. I’d say the HyperX Cloud Alpha (wired) is the perfect solution. It delivers excellent audio and has plenty of bass response, but it doesn’t cost that much.

Though it’s not considered a budget option, the HyperX Cloud Alpha is comfortable and won’t break the bank if you’re in the mid-price range.

What is the best gaming headset for the PS5?

I’ve always thought of a PS5 as being part of the streaming class of games. You’re often playing with other people from around the world, making it important to have clear and high-quality sound. The Audio-Technica ATH-MS50XSTS StreamSet is perfect and will replace your desktop microphone because it offers the best quality at both ends.

What is the best gaming headset for Nintendo Switch?

While it shouldn’t matter, I dislike having long cables whenever possible. Therefore, I was surprised (and delighted) that the Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X made my life easier.

It comes with two cable lengths; the 1.8m version was perfect for my Nintendo Switch, but it is also ideal for console gamepads and other portable devices. Plus, they made no noise and only required 48 ohms for power, ensuring you don’t need an amplifier.

What is the best gaming headset for Xbox Series X?

When playing my Xbox Series X, I learned it’s important to stay alert in the game. That’s often hard to do if there are many things happening in the household. However, I’ve found that the Acezone A-Spire headset is perfect because it offers active noise-cancellation technology. You’ll also receive a defined and clear audio profile.

What is the best gaming headset for PC?

Overall, I think the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless is the best choice for PC gaming. It features a clear microphone, superb audio, and even comes with DTS surround sound. Plus, it’s light, comfortable, and boasts a 300-hour battery life.