Great audio is key to an immersive gaming experience, but with countless headsets available, choosing the right one can be daunting. Just like selecting the ideal gaming mouse or keyboard, you need to weigh factors like budget, audio quality, comfort, and key features that matter most to you. To find the perfect fit, understanding what each headset offers and relying on expert insights can make all the difference.
Having tested numerous headphones and gaming headsets, I know what sets the best apart. My selections reflect a careful balance of overall performance and standout strengths in specific categories. For instance, budget-conscious gamers might gravitate toward the HyperX Cloud III, while those seeking premium quality can opt for the Audeze Maxwell. Advanced features like virtual surround sound, active noise cancellation, or customizable EQ settings elevate models like the JBL Quantum One, Turtle Beach Stealth Pro, or Logitech G Pro X 2.
TL;DR: Top Gaming Headsets for 2025

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
29See it at AmazonSee it at Target
HyperX Cloud III
8See it at Amazon
Audeze Maxwell
15See it at Amazon
Turtle Beach Atlas Air
4See it at Amazon
Turtle Beach Stealth 500
4See it at Amazon
Beyerdynamic MMX 300 Pro
5See it at Amazon
Sennheiser HD 620S
4See it at Amazon
JBL Quantum One
3See it at Amazon
Logitech G Pro X 2
6See it at Amazon
Turtle Beach Stealth Pro
2See it at Amazon
Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed
6See it at AmazonThis guide highlights top-performing headsets across specific categories where they outshine competitors. While other excellent options exist, these recommendations are backed by hands-on testing from my team and me. I’ll keep updating this list as new models emerge and I evaluate more, so check back for the latest advice when choosing your next gaming headset.
Contributions by Danielle Abraham and Adam Matthew.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Images






1. SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Top Gaming Headset

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
29Versatile connectivity, swappable batteries, superior sound, and hybrid noise cancellation make this headset a standout choice.See it at AmazonSee it at TargetThe SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is hard to resist. It builds on the strengths of its predecessor with enhanced audio and active noise cancellation. Its four-mic hybrid system effectively blocks out external noises, from room distractions to fan hums.
Right out of the box, it delivers bold, balanced sound with excellent spatial audio, perfect for pinpointing enemy movements or sensing action in fast-paced shooters. Fine-tune the EQ and game-chat balance via Sonar and the SteelSeries GG app for a tailored experience that’s tough to beat for casual listening.
This headset marks a bold redesign for the Arctis line, with telescoping arms for better fit on larger heads and slimmer earcups that feel more like premium wireless headphones. Comfort remains a hallmark, and the swappable battery system ensures uninterrupted gaming by letting you swap batteries on the fly.
The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless excels in versatility, sound, and comfort, earning a rare 10 in our review for its well-rounded performance.
IGN Deals' Picks: Top Gaming Headset Deals
Logitech G733 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Headset- $127.44Logitech G635 DTS Gaming Headset- $69.99Razer Kraken Tournament Edition- $52.99For more hand-picked deals, visit IGN DealsHyperX Cloud III – Photos






2. HyperX Cloud III
Best Budget Gaming Headset

HyperX Cloud III
8This wired headset offers universal compatibility via a 3.5mm audio jack, delivering great value.See it at AmazonThe HyperX Cloud III is a standout for budget gamers, often available for under $100. It delivers impressive audio and microphone quality, paired with excellent comfort and durability. Its aluminum frame is flexible yet tough, ensuring it withstands years of use.
Its sturdy build allows easy adjustments without fear of damage, and the dense foam earpads wrapped in leatherette offer comfort, though they may feel warm during long sessions. Some users might find the clamp force a bit firm.
Sound quality shines across frequencies, making it easy to track in-game cues in titles like Valorant or enjoy balanced audio in Final Fantasy XIV. The microphone also impresses, offering clarity that rivals pricier models, making it a top pick for cost-conscious gamers.
3. Audeze Maxwell
Best High-End Gaming Headset

Audeze Maxwell
15This premium wireless headset from a top-tier audio brand delivers exceptional sound.See it at AmazonThe Audeze Maxwell justifies its premium price with audiophile-grade performance and a sleek design. Its 90mm planar magnetic drivers deliver clear, balanced sound with rich depth, setting it apart in audio quality.
While the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless excels in features, the Maxwell shines purely for its sound. Its robust build adds weight, but comfort remains solid, and features like toggleable noise isolation and an impressive 80+ hour battery life make it worth the investment.
Turtle Beach Atlas Air - Photos






4. Turtle Beach Atlas Air
Best Wireless Gaming Headset

Turtle Beach Atlas Air
4This open-back wireless headset offers exceptional audio fidelity and comfort.See it at AmazonThe Turtle Beach Atlas Air stands out for its lightweight design and exceptional comfort, thanks to soft earpads and minimal clamp force. Its durable yet light construction and breathable mesh upholstery make it ideal for long sessions.
The open-back design delivers spacious, high-fidelity audio, though it lacks natural sound isolation, so consider your environment. The Swarm software offers customizable EQ profiles, but the microphone quality is average, making this headset best for audio-focused gamers.
Turtle Beach Stealth 500 Headset - Photos






5. Turtle Beach Stealth 500
Best Budget Wireless Gaming Headset

Turtle Beach Stealth 500
4A wireless headset under $100 with solid audio and durability.See it at AmazonThe Turtle Beach Stealth 500 proves budget wireless headsets can impress. Its flexible headband and lightweight build ensure comfort, though its bulky design and button layout feel less refined.
Audio quality is strong, with deep bass and clear mids, though highs can sound slightly sharp. The Swarm software’s Signature Sound profile simplifies setup, and positional audio performs well in games like Counter-Strike 2. Bluetooth connectivity adds versatility, though the microphone is just adequate.
6. Beyerdynamic MMX 300 Pro
Best Wired Gaming Headset

Beyerdynamic MMX 300 Pro
5A premium wired headset with studio-quality audio and a top-tier microphone.See it at AmazonBeyerdynamic’s MMX 300 Pro blends audiophile-grade sound with gaming functionality. Its 45mm drivers deliver rich, balanced audio, ideal for both gaming and studio use, while the closed-back design ensures comfort for extended sessions.
The microphone stands out, offering clarity that rivals mid-range standalone mics, making it perfect for streaming or content creation. While it doesn’t drastically improve on its predecessor, its sound and mic quality earned it a 9 in our review.
7. Sennheiser HD 620S
Best Audiophile Gaming Headphones

Sennheiser HD 620S
4Premium headphones from a renowned brand, perfect for gaming.See it at AmazonSennheiser’s HD 620S brings audiophile quality to gaming with a closed-back design that delivers full, detailed sound. Its tight-sealing leatherette earcups provide excellent noise isolation, though they may warm up during long sessions.
The 42mm drivers offer balanced audio, excelling in games like Counter-Strike 2 and Valorant. Pairing with a DAC or amp unlocks even more potential, making this a top choice for audiophiles who game.
8. JBL Quantum One
Best Surround Sound Gaming Headset

JBL Quantum One
3Advanced surround sound, noise cancellation, and high-res audio capture every in-game detail.See it at AmazonThe JBL Quantum One offers versatile surround sound with QuantumSphere 360 and DTS Headphone X: v2.0, enhancing immersion in games and movies. Its head-tracking technology adjusts audio based on your head’s position, adding realism.
The 50mm drivers deliver precise, high-res sound with a 20Hz-40kHz range, and active noise cancellation boosts immersion. While the microphone is a weak point, the headset’s audio quality stands strong on its own.
9. Logitech G Pro X 2
Best Esports Gaming Headset

Logitech G Pro X 2
6A versatile headset with clear audio, a customizable mic, and esports-ready features.See it at AmazonThe Logitech G Pro X 2 is a well-rounded choice for competitive gaming, offering excellent sound, durability, and thoughtful features like a carrying case and swiveling earcups. Its positional audio excels in esports settings, and the leatherette earpads provide solid isolation.
Bluetooth connectivity and velour earpad options add versatility, though the mic is only serviceable. At $250, it’s pricey but justified by its performance and design.
Turtle Beach Stealth Pro – Photos






10. Turtle Beach Stealth Pro
Best Noise-Cancelling Gaming Headset

Turtle Beach Stealth Pro
2Top-tier noise cancellation, swappable batteries, and a sleek design for immersive gaming.See it at AmazonThe Turtle Beach Stealth Pro combines strong audio with top-tier noise cancellation, effectively blocking ambient distractions. Its understated matte black design and plush earcups ensure comfort, with controls and swappable batteries integrated seamlessly.
Dual wireless mode lets you game on PC or console while streaming music via Bluetooth. Customizable EQ settings enhance versatility, though its hefty build may not suit everyone.
11. Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed
Best Gaming Earbuds

Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed
6Wireless earbuds with low-latency 2.4GHz, ANC, and customizable EQ for gaming.See it at AmazonRazer’s Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed redefines gaming earbuds with robust sound that rivals mid-range headphones. The 2.4GHz USB-C dongle ensures low-latency compatibility across devices, ideal for mobile or Switch gaming.
Features like ANC, THX, and customizable EQ deliver a bold, balanced audio experience. However, battery life is short compared to headsets, making them better suited for shorter sessions or travel.
How to Choose the Best Gaming Headset
Start by setting your budget and identifying priorities: sound quality, comfort, mic clarity, durability, or battery life for wireless models. While all are important, some headsets excel in specific areas.
Sound quality is critical across price ranges. Driver size matters, but tuning and build quality are key. Look for reviews detailing bass, mids, and highs, and how they perform in games. Positional audio is vital for competitive play, enhancing immersion and accuracy in titles like Counter-Strike 2.

Comfort hinges on clamp force, earpad density, and materials like leatherette or mesh. Durability varies, with premium models using aluminum frames and budget options favoring flexible plastics. Microphones are often secondary, but models like the HyperX Cloud III and Beyerdynamic MMX 300 Pro offer impressive clarity.

Wireless headsets now boast long battery life (40-80 hours) and low latency, with some offering simultaneous Bluetooth. Software suites, like Turtle Beach’s Swarm, allow EQ customization and mic adjustments, adding value to your purchase.
Gaming Headset FAQ
How is sound quality evaluated for gaming headsets?
Sound quality is assessed through audio analysis and real-world testing. Descriptors like clarity, balance, or distortion help convey the experience. Driver size influences potential, but tuning and spatial audio are crucial for immersive gaming.

What sets gaming headsets apart from headphones?
Gaming headsets include built-in microphones and are tuned for gaming-specific audio cues, with features like low-latency 2.4GHz dongles and software for EQ customization, unlike most headphones.

Wired or wireless for gaming headsets?
Wired headsets offer reliable analog sound, while modern wireless models match them with long battery life and low latency. Wireless options add versatility with multi-device connectivity, but may cost more.

Is virtual surround sound worth it?
Virtual surround sound, like DTS Headphone:X or Dolby Atmos, enhances immersion in action games and movies but can feel artificial in competitive play. Its effectiveness depends on the headset’s ability to deliver nuanced audio.