Gaming headsets

Gaming headsets give you clear sound, accurate direction of footsteps, and a microphone for talking with the team. Here you will find wired and wireless models for computer, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and phone – with surround sound, backlighting, and various types of microphones. There are models for competitive gaming, for long evenings with friends, and for people who want one headset for both gaming and music.

How to choose

• Connection. 3.5 mm jack works with almost everything – computer, console controller, phone. USB adds a built-in sound card and surround sound. Wireless with a receiver has no delay, while Bluetooth is convenient for phones.
• Compatibility. Check which platforms they work with. Some wireless headsets are made for a specific console, while others have a receiver for multiple devices.
• Sound. Large drivers provide fuller bass. Virtual 7.1 surround helps determine direction, especially in shooters.
• Microphone. A detachable or removable microphone is convenient when listening to music. Noise cancellation keeps the team safe from sounds around you.
• Comfort. Soft earcup material, lightweight body, and adjustable headband are crucial for long gaming sessions.
• Sound isolation. Closed earcups keep sound in and prevent noise from the room from distracting you. Active noise cancellation in some wireless models helps even more in noisy environments.

What to watch out for

• Closed headsets isolate noise, open ones sound wider but let outside noise in.
• If you wear glasses, choose soft earcups that do not press on the temples.
• Wireless models have a battery – check how many hours they last and if you can play while charging.
• Some headsets have two separate jacks for sound and microphone – check if you need an adapter.
• Removable earcups and cables are easily replaced if worn out.

Compatibility

For computer, any type of connection works. For console, the most reliable are cables with a 3.5 mm jack to the controller or wireless models advertised for the specific console. If you are looking for headsets mainly for music and phone, also check out regular headphones, and for a complete gaming setup – mice and keyboards. If you stream or record video, a separate desktop microphone provides an even clearer voice than the microphone on the headset.