The best gaming headsets enable you to tune out everything else and focus only on the action taking place on the screen.
Even though any set of headphones will function with a PC or gaming console, specialized gaming headsets provide enhanced audio settings, high-quality microphones, and a variety of other capabilities. If you plan on immersing yourself in a long single-player experience or polishing your multiplayer skills in preparation for a competitive environment, you should absolutely invest in a gaming headset in 2023.
The market for gaming headsets, however, is swamped with low-quality rubbish that prioritizes “gamer” looks above practical functionality, much like the market for any other sort of electronic gadget. Tom’s Guide has put a large number of different gaming headsets through rigorous testing and analysis to guarantee that our curated list of recommended products includes high-quality solutions for every kind of gamer. We have a product that should make your gaming setup better, regardless of whether you are looking for a wired or wireless alternative and regardless of whether you want to spend a lot or a little money.
When it comes to this particular aspect, the Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT is one of the best options that I am certain to recommend. That is the point at which I am going to start. I’ll also offer a few additional solutions that are just as fascinating and may be used in combination with Xbox systems, consoles, and perhaps even some other devices. These solutions can be found below.
Top 8 Gaming Headsets Compatible with Xbox and PC
- Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT
- Xbox Wireless Headset
- Drop + EPOS PC38X
- Logitech G Pro X
- Razer Blackshark V2
- Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2
- Razer Kaira Pro
- HyperX Cloud Stinger 2
Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT
Compatibility:
PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, mobile
The Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT is widely considered to be among the very best gaming headsets that Corsair has ever produced. Both the comfort and the sound quality of this headset are outstanding. Because it is equipped with Bluetooth and USB connection, it may be used wirelessly with a variety of devices, including laptops, Xbox and PlayStation consoles, cellphones, streaming players, and smart TVs. The Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT has powers that are almost beyond bounds.
However, there is a cost associated with having all of those capabilities. The Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT is a bit of an investment when compared to some of the other headsets that we have tried. Also, the battery life isn’t outstanding given the price, which is particularly disappointing when one considers that some of the Virtuoso’s competitors can operate on a single charge for twice as long. The major function of the Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT is to provide gamers with an audio solution of excellent quality. This is true despite the clear fact that the headset’s visual attractiveness cannot be denied.
Xbox Wireless Headset
Compatibility:
Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, mobile
As its name suggests, the Xbox Wireless Headset is a wireless headset that has been tailored specifically for use with Xbox gaming consoles. This headset is able to give high-quality audio with a simple pairing procedure for any Xbox console (Series X, Series S, Xbox One, or Xbox One S) or Windows 10 PC with an Xbox controller adapter installed.
The Xbox consoles include Xbox One, Xbox One S, Xbox One, and Xbox One. In addition to that, the Xbox Wireless Headset is Bluetooth-enabled, which means that you can use it to listen to music or answer calls on your phone without having to remove your hands from the controller. Moreover, the microphone on the headset is noise-canceling.
Because the Xbox Wireless Headset is not compatible with the PlayStation 5 or the Nintendo Switch, consoles that have more than one console should go somewhere else. It’s possible that getting the right fit will be difficult as well.
However, for the price, the Xbox Wireless Headset offers a tremendous deal of versatility, a straightforward user interface, and a slick design.
Drop + EPOS PC38X
Compatibility:
PC, Mac, Xbox, PS4, PS5, Switch, Mobile
Our PC38X gaming headset is a significant improvement over the PC37X, which was already well regarded for its comfort, sturdy construction, and excellent sound. To mark the transition from Sennheiser Gaming to EPOS, a new all-black version of the PC38X is now available for purchase. Same legendary headset, but with a classy design that fits in everywhere.
The PC38X uses the same high-fidelity speakers as the legendary Sennheiser GSP 500 and 600 headsets, resulting in incredibly detailed sound over a broad frequency range. The lower driver impedance of 28 ohms makes it easier to drive than the PC37X.
A soft headband with mesh-knit padding and a split design allows air to circulate while providing optimal comfort and support for extended use. You may select between knit mesh and traditional velour earpads for a comfortable fit.
Lastly, the PC38X is equipped with two cables: a 3.5mm TRRS cable for use with mobile devices and consoles (no adaptor needed) and a split cable for use with personal computers.
The PC38X is a simple device that improves your ability to detect threats and monitor your environment.
Its slanted drivers and open back design improve stereo image and pinpoint placement, letting you pinpoint the precise origin of enemy movement, gunfire, and other dangers.
The drivers are the same as those used in the Sennheiser GSP 500 and 600, two of the best gaming headsets currently available. With their enhanced low-end extension over the standard PC37X, your media will sound more robust and realistic than ever before.
The noise-cancelling microphone is a throwback to Sennheiser’s first small mic project, which included the development of microphones specifically for use by pilots. The mic has been designed to manage unpleasant pops and hisses, making it ideal for use with Zoom calls and other close-range video communications. Sennheiser’s microphone capsule is so high-quality that it’s used to record many modern video games. The mic can be muted by rotating it up, which results in a nice click that lets you know it’s muted.
Logitech G Pro X
Compatibility:
PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
With the Logitech G Pro X, you may have performance on par with that of a tournament for close to 130 dollars. The headset distinguishes itself from the rest of the pack not just due to its streamlined black design but also due to its adjustable headband and comfortable foam/leatherette earcups.
When determining which headsets are the best for gaming, comfort is one of the most important considerations we make, despite the fact that it is not the only aspect we take into account. If using a headset for even a short period of time causes pain, then it is not serving its purpose.
You will instantly have access to a more immersive and responsive audio experience whenever you use the Go Pro X, regardless of whether you are using a personal pc or a gaming console. Additionally, it is the first gaming headset to include a built-in Blue microphone, making it possible for very clear voice communication to take place either practicing with your Apex Legends squad or broadcasting to an audience of online spectators.
Razer Blackshark V2
Compatibility:
PC, PS5, PS4, Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
The BlackShark V2 Pro is a wireless headset for video games, and despite its lavish price tag, it more than lives up to expectations. The build quality, the sound, and the battery life are all pretty respectable, despite the fact that there are a few bugs. The incorporation of THX Spatial Audio has emerged in a short amount of time as one of the features that is in highest demand. It’s a pity that the required app drives up the price even more and isn’t supported by many of today’s most popular smartphones.
Positional audio, excellent communication, and efficient noise suppression are the three elements that stand out as priority for the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro gaming earphones. When it comes to remaining one step ahead of the competition in the world of professional esports, each and every one of these factors is very important.
The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro, which was already one of the best PC gaming headsets on the market, has been improved with the addition of new features such as TriForce Titanium 50mm drivers, a detachable HyperClear Supercardioid mic, Ultra-soft FlowKnit memory foam ear cushions, and THX Spatial Audio for surround sound. Additionally, the ear cushions have been redesigned to be more comfortable. The BlackShark V2 Pro comes with a plethora of capabilities, such as the capacity to connect wirelessly and a battery life that can last for up to 24 hours. Additionally, the HyperSpeed 2.4GHz connection considerably cuts down on the amount of audio delay while preserving the consistent quality of the music.
Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2
Compatibility:
Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X
The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 is widely considered to be among the best wireless headsets available for consoles. This accessory stands out from the crowd because to its many unique features, including earcups that are padded for comfort and two different wireless operating modes.
In order to connect to a pc using the PlayStation 4 version, a USB adapter is necessary; however, the Xbox One version is already compatible with the console of your choosing. Both types provide Bluetooth connections to a variety of electronic devices, including computers and mobile phones. This is a terrific inclusion, especially taking into consideration how unusual it is for gaming headsets to have Bluetooth capabilities.
The Stealth 700 Gen 2 has a very tight fit, so you’ll need to either break it in or get used to having some pressure around your ears. This is the biggest disadvantage of the product, and it’s the reason why it’s the only one. Because it is possible that there may be varying degrees of loudness, it is often preferred to start with the volume set down and gradually raise it to the desired level.
Razer Kaira Pro
Compatibility:
Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, mobile
These headphones have 90-degree rotatable earmuffs, making them appropriate for listeners with varied ear sizes and shapes. These headphones feel pretty safe on the head due to the adjustable headband and solid construction.
On the earcups are controls for the headset’s volume and game/chat mix, as well as buttons for turning the headset on and off, pairing it with a Bluetooth device, and wirelessly attaching it to an Xbox One. By pushing a button on the left can of the headphones, the mic may be silenced. Despite the effectiveness of the controls, it is impossible to differentiate between the two dials and the buttons since they all have the same feel. It’s aggravating to seek for a long time in a video game before obtaining the object you’ve been looking for.
The Razer Kaira Pro thrives on its own platform but performs poorly on others. Even though it includes Bluetooth, this solution is not widespread. If you are not entirely committed to Microsoft’s gaming environment, consider getting a cross-platform headset instead of the next Xbox.
No one can dispute that the Razer Kaira Pro is a great Xbox headset option. It is portable, comfortable, delivers good sound, has a high-quality microphone, and has a lengthy battery life between charges. The Xbox Wireless user interface is intuitive, and the system seems to have little latency. However, you should not purchase this headset if you want to use it with several systems. If you’re one of the millions of iPhone users playing Fortnite or another game, you’ll have trouble with voice chat since the superb microphone supplied with the game does not work on mobile. Although Microsoft’s shoddy implementation of Xbox Wireless may be somewhat to blame, the PC experience is unsatisfactory.
HyperX Cloud Stinger 2
Compatibility:
PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 is widely regarded as one of the best headsets for gaming available at an affordable price.
This device costs less than fifty dollars and is fully compatible with personal computers and gaming consoles. It also offers a sufficient sound quality, a tight fit, and a simplistic design. The Cloud Stinger 2 need no more explanation beyond the words “it just works,” which is essentially all that is required.
Even though the Cloud Stinger 2’s plastic chassis seems to be less durable than the other headsets we’ve tested that have steel headbands, we are unable to provide a guarantee on how well it will keep up over time.
The microphone has a bit of a muffled quality to it, which might be an issue for those who spend the most of their time communicating with others via the internet.
Choosing Criteria
If you’re a serious gamer, choosing the right gaming headset compatible with PC, Xbox and PlayStation consoles is essential to the overall experience. Whether you’re looking for a wired or wireless model, there’s a variety of options available, and you’ll need to weigh up the main features and price points to find one that’s perfect for you.
Microphone – A headset with a good mic is a must for online gaming, as it allows you to communicate clearly and quickly, so your team can take down the opposition. Make sure the headset you choose has a built-in microphone, or a mic that’s detachable for better portability.
Bluetooth – This is an important feature for gaming, and it’s worth spending a few extra dollars to get a headset with a modern wireless connection to use it both when connected to the Xbox console and when playing or working on a laptop or other PC. It’s also a good idea to look for models that come with both wired and wireless connectivity, so you can switch between the two as needed.
Audio – This is the most important factor when selecting a headset, as it reflects the quality of the sound produced by the headphones. It’s also a good idea for headsets to include Dolby Atmos or THX support, as well as haptic feedback and noise cancellation.
Frequency Response – This is an essential factor, as it determines how wide and deep the sound spectrum can be. A wider range of frequencies indicates that the headset can capture a larger range of audible sounds, which is important for immersive audio.
EQ Settings – This is an important feature for gamers, as it gives you control over the way your headset sounds. Most headsets have a number of EQ settings that allow you to tailor the sound to your preferences, such as the games with or without a lot of ambient noise.
Accessories – Besides the gaming headset itself, you’ll want to add other accessories to enhance your experience. Adding a gaming mouse or keyboard can improve your gaming performance, while a controller pad or a headset bag can help you organize your gear and store it easily.
