Best Gaming Headsets for PS5, Xbox and PC
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A good headset helps you hear footsteps, talk with friends and play late without waking the house. The biggest thing buyers get wrong is compatibility. Wireless headsets often come in separate PlayStation and Xbox versions. Here's how to choose, plus well-reviewed picks.
Quick picks
Wired vs. wireless
- Wired (3.5mm): plugs into the jack on your PS5 or Xbox controller. Works with nearly everything, has no battery, and is cheaper.
- Wireless (USB dongle or built-in): no cable, but you'll need to charge it. Check the platform. Xbox uses its own wireless system, so a headset labeled only for PlayStation or PC usually won't connect wirelessly to an Xbox. Look for "Xbox" in the product name if you play on Xbox.
The picks
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7
A popular wireless headset with a comfortable fit and long battery life. It can also connect to your phone over Bluetooth at the same time. There are separate versions for different platforms, such as the "Nova 7X" for Xbox, so get the right one. [VERIFY]
Sony Pulse Elite (PS5)
Sony's own headset is tuned for PS5 3D Audio and connects to the PS5 with a small USB adapter. It also pairs with the PlayStation Portal. For a cheaper Sony option, the older Pulse 3D is still around.
Xbox Wireless Headset
Microsoft's headset connects directly to the Xbox, so there's no dongle. It's simple, comfortable for most people, and works over Bluetooth with phones too.
HyperX Cloud III (wired)
HyperX's Cloud line is known for comfort and durability. The wired Cloud III works with consoles through the controller jack, and with PC. There's also a wireless version.
Razer BlackShark V2 X (budget wired)
A light, cheap wired headset that's popular for competitive shooters. The 3.5mm version works with PS5 and Xbox controllers.
Turtle Beach Stealth 600 (budget wireless)
Turtle Beach is a long-time console headset brand, and the Stealth 600 is a common pick if you want wireless without paying premium prices. It comes in different versions for different platforms.
Premium option
If you want the best and don't mind paying for it, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless has a base station and a hot-swappable battery, so you never wait on a charge.
Headset gear
- Headset stand: keeps your desk tidy and the headband in shape. Check price on Amazon
- Replacement ear cushions: pads wear out. Check that they fit your exact model. Check price on Amazon
What to skip
- "7.1 surround" marketing on cheap headsets. Both consoles already do their own 3D audio, and a good stereo headset is often better.
- The wrong platform version. Double-check PlayStation vs. Xbox before you buy wireless.
- Ultra-cheap no-name RGB headsets. They're usually uncomfortable and fragile.
Comfort tips
If you wear glasses, look for soft memory-foam pads and a lighter headset. Fabric pads run cooler than leatherette in long sessions.
Bottom line
On a budget, a wired headset plugged into your controller is hard to beat. For wireless, buy the version made for your console. The Pulse Elite suits PS5, the Xbox Wireless Headset suits Xbox, and the Arctis Nova 7 is a strong all-rounder.