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If you’re anything like me, you absolutely have to hear every footstep, every shot, and every drumbeat in the games you play or the media you consume.
So, naturally, you have to have the best gaming headset.
Luckily, we’ve compiled some of the strongest contenders as of 2024, ranging from the Sennheiser Game One gaming headset to the Razer Kraken V3.
And we’ve laid them all out for you.
Best Overall – Sennheiser GAME ONE Gaming Headset
The Sennheiser Game One gaming headset, also known as the Sennheiser EPOS, is a solid and well-balanced purchase for gamers (or anyone) looking to elevate their audio experience.
With a strong focus on quality sound, this headset caters to music-loving gamers, providing a superior audio experience with a flat frequency response ideal for rhythm games, RPGs, and those requiring nuanced sound detection. The velour earpads are particularly friendly to glasses wearers (that’s a huge plus).
The headset’s design strikes a balance between gaming aesthetics and a more subdued appearance, with a matte black finish that resists scuffs and fingerprints. So nothing too loud or gamer-y, as what matters is under the hood. Notably, the open-back design enhances 3D spatial awareness and can supposedly provide an edge in competitive FPS games.
In terms of connectivity, the Sennheiser Game One uses dual 3.5mm plugs, which may require an adapter for some setups. All in all, the sound quality lives up to Sennheiser’s reputation, offering a neutral frequency response that faithfully reproduces game audio without exaggerating or diminishing certain frequencies.
While the microphone may require some tweaking for optimal performance, the overall audio quality, comfort, and versatility make the Sennheiser Game One a worthwhile investment for PC gamers, especially if they prioritize audio clarity over complete isolation from their surroundings.
Best for Wireless Capabilities – HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless
The HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless gaming headset seems to be an almost mandatory choice for those who are tired of wires. Its standout feature is its impressive battery life, boasting up to 300 hours in wireless mode. Allegedly, this thing can go up to a whole week of gaming and music without charging.
The comfort factor doesn’t disappoint either, perfect for those marathon sessions. The top band and ear cuffs are thickly padded, ensuring a cozy experience and effective noise isolation.
Now, about the sound quality – it’s top-notch. It provides an incredible music experience and immersive directional sound in games. Despite being a bit reserved in terms of maximum volume, the clarity and crispness make up for it. It’s also versatile, working seamlessly with a PS5 as it should, especially with the wireless boasting.
On the downside, the microphone is typically regarded as fairly standard, good for in-game chat but not winning any awards for sound recording. Aesthetically, these aren’t subtle – they embrace a bold gamer-chic vibe with vibrant metallic red trim and prominent HyperX branding. That’s subjective, but some might like it.
Anyway, it’s hard to recommend any other wireless gaming headset, the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless seems like a good investment. With its comfortable design, impressive battery life, and excellent sound quality, it delivers on the gaming and music fronts, making the somewhat steep price tag justifiable for the specs it offers.
Best Premium Option – Audeze Maxwell
The Audeze Maxwell gaming headset, priced at $300+, is a top choice in for gaming audio, providing an exceptional blend of features that elevate it above its competitors. What sets it apart is its 80+ hours of battery life, coupled with a quick 20-minute, 25 percent charge for all-day use. Really up to par with the HyperX but it has other features to compensate.
The wireless USB-C dongle ensures a versatile and high-performance connection thanks to its ultra-low latency, Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint support, and compatibility with high-quality codecs like LE Audio and LDAC.
In terms of build and comfort, the Maxwell excels with its robust construction, physical control buttons, and a detachable boom mic (yes, woah). Weighing in at 500g, it may be heavy, but the pleather suspension strap and plush earpads contribute to a reasonably comfortable experience. In short, this thing is built like a tank.
Sound quality is where the Maxwell truly shines, standing out as one of the best-tuned closed-back headphones. Its DSP-tuned sound signature, depicted in some frequency response graphs or tests, reveals a well-balanced presentation with a touch of warmth in the midrange, controlled treble, and a finely dialed-in bass shelf.
While the Maxwell’s software and sidetone feature could be clunky (way too common among peripherals these days), and the microphone quality is average, these minor drawbacks don’t overshadow its overall brilliance.
Audeze’s AI-enhanced noise reduction is impressive and the headset’s extensive connectivity options make it a worthwhile purchase. In hindsight, the Audeze Maxwell is not just a gaming headset; it’s a remarkable closed-back headphone that stands as an audiophile-grade wireless option, an excellent option for those seeking top-tier sound quality and versatility.
Best Pick from Razer – Razer BlackShark V2 Pro
You still can’t go wrong with Razer. The Razer BlackShark V2 is a smart choice, more or less. After testing numerous gaming headsets, this wired gem emerged as the best value pick, offering an excellent balance between price and performance. There’s also a wired non-Pro version for an even budget-friendlier approach.
What sets the BlackShark V2 Pro apart is its impressive audio quality, surpassing even more expensive competitors. The headset provides deep and powerful bass, clear high-end responses, and detailed sound, creating an immersive gaming experience.
Its wide compatibility with major console platforms is a bonus, accommodating PC, Mac, Sony PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch.
Comfort is another highlight, with a lightweight, well-constructed frame, padded headband, and ample ear cup cushioning. If you already have a cohort of Razer products, you might as well go with this one to complete its ecosystem.
The included USB-C dongle enables THX virtual 7.1-channel surround sound on compatible platforms, and Razer’s Synapse 3 software allows for audio customization on PC. While the microphone isn’t the strongest point (as usual), it’s adequate for team communication.
So for those in the market for a no-nonsense gaming headset that won’t break the bank, the BlackShark V2 or its more expensive, wireless Pro variant, is something you ought to consider.
Best Budget Option – Razer Kraken V3 X
It used to be more expensive, but the Razer Kraken V3 X gaming headset is now more affordable than ever. While it may not cater to high-fidelity enthusiasts, its TriForce 40mm drivers ensure a competitive performance among gaming headsets. The general consensus is that for gaming, music, and Discord calls, the Kraken V3 X came out as a reliable daily driver.
The headset, though primarily made of plastic, feels sturdy. The hybrid material and memory foam ear cups contribute to a pleasant wearing experience, even during prolonged gaming sessions. Also, the inclusion of a HyperClear Cardioid Mic and Razer Chroma RGB effects enhances both voice clarity and aesthetics, good enough for budding streamers.
In terms of sound quality, the TriForce 40mm drivers deliver punchy and clear audio, particularly excelling in gaming scenarios with positional effects. The microphone, with a flexible boom arm, comes with an accurate and clear performance, making it suitable for both recording and Discord calls.
While lacking EQ customization in the software, the Razer Synapse allows control over RGB lighting. Meanwhile, the 7.1 surround sound software, though a bit cumbersome to set up, enhances the overall audio experience.
Gamers seeking a reliable, budget-friendly option with a comfortable design, competitive sound quality, and a clear microphone should look at the Kraken V3 X for an enjoyable gaming experience and a decent starter gaming headset.
