The best Xbox One headsets for 2023
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.
Menu
(Image credit: Future/Royce Wilson)
1. The Quick List
2. Best overall
3. Best under $50
4. Best for most
5. Best Xbox One gen
6. Best value
7. Best for multiplayer
8. Best haptics
Thanks to the marvel of backwards and forwards compatibility, the best Xbox One headsets are still enjoying plenty of popularity. Whether you’re dusting off an older system and looking to give it a new lease of life or you’re after a reliable set of cups to span the generations, there are plenty of options out there at the moment.
Microsoft’s finnicky wireless connections continue to give Xbox players headaches when hunting for a headset, though, which means you’ll need to make sure you’re picking up a compatible device if you are going down the untethered route. Plus, it’s well worth double checking any prices of older releases against new models – you’d be surprised how many refreshes launch at the same MSRP without dropping the price on the previous generation.
With all that in mind, we’ve compiled this list of the best Xbox One headsets based on extensive testing across multiple weeks. We’ve lived, worked, and played with all these cups, to make sure they live up to their promises well past the initial two week testing period. We’ve also covered the full price range here as well, so you can make sure you’re getting the best for your cash whatever your budget. Yes, the best gaming headsets are going to cost you, but there’s plenty of value further down the scale as well.
While that aforementioned compatibility will ensure you can take your Xbox One headset between the two console generations seamlessly, some sets are built with the newer machines in mind. As a result, it’s still quite a wise move to keep a close eye on the best Xbox Series X headsets and the lineup of Xbox Series X wireless headsets.
The Quick List
Best overall
1. SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro
The best Xbox One headset overall
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro is the best Xbox One headset on the market right now. From its delectable audio quality to endless comfort and ingenious battery solutions, it’s a premium device with plenty to give.
Read more below
Best under $50
2. Corsair HS35
The best under $50
If your budget is a little tighter, we’d suggest the Corsair HS35. It offers excellent value at under $50, with long-lasting comfort, solid sound quality and a clear mic. Everything’s covered here.
Read more below
Best for most
3. Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset
The best for most
Microsoft’s official Xbox headset surprised us with its excellent audio quality and surround sound for the price.
This is a headset that’s going to satisfy the vast majority of players after no-fuss wireless gaming.
Read more below
Best Xbox One gen
4. SteelSeries Arctis 9X
The best from Xbox One gen
The latest and greatest headsets pack a punch, but the SteelSeries Arctis 9X was at the top of its game during the Xbox One generation and can be found at a great price these days. That’s perfect for anyone after a value-busting bargain.
Read more below
Best value
5. Turtle Beach Recon 500
The best value
Turtle Beach’s Recon 500 puts its emphasis on great sound. That means you’re picking up a cheaper build, but investing more in impressively rich audio pumping out of 60mm drivers.
Read more below
Best for multiplayer
6. Corsair HS75 XB Wireless
The best for multiplayer
The Corsair HS75 XB has been designed directly for Xbox One, with a speedy wireless connection built in.
Add a super clear mic and you’ve got a solid multiplayer option.
Read more below
Best haptics
7. Razer Nari Ultimate
The best for haptics
The Razer Nari Ultimate brings the brand’s HyperSense haptic feedback to Xbox One. The effects are incredibly immersive, especially once that THX Spatial Audio comes in to play as well.
Read more below
The best Xbox One headset overall
Image 1 of 6
(Image credit: Future/Royce Wilson)(Image credit: Future/Royce Wilson)(Image credit: Future/Royce Wilson)(Image credit: Future/Royce Wilson)(Image credit: Future/Royce Wilson)(Image credit: Future/Royce Wilson)
1. SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro for Xbox
The best Xbox One headset overall
Specifications
Acoustic Design: Closed back, over ear
Cable length: 2.7m/8.8ft
Drivers: 40mm Neodymium
Weight: 450g/1.01lb
Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Mac, PlayStation, Switch
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Outstanding audio quality
+
DAC allows for considerable EQ customisation
+
Comfortable
+
Also works with PC and PlayStation
Reasons to avoid
–
Mic is not retract-to-mute
–
Questionable earphone cup material longevity
–
Expensive compared to other wired set
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro for Xbox is easily the best Xbox One headset going, and one of the best wired sets overall that we’ve ever used.
The lightweight design keeps the size and weight down, making it comfortable to wear but still feeling like there’s some sturdiness to it so I don’t have to worry about the cat or one of the kids accidentally sitting on it.
The Digital-To-Analogue (DAC) unit offers highly customisable EQ adjustment, letting you get the sound just how you like it, and the audio quality in stereo and surround mode is just superb across the board, whether it’s in action-packed action/shooting games, engaging RPGs, thoughtful adventure titles, or enjoying streaming content from the internet.
Sets a new standard for wired Xbox gaming headset audio
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro review
The icing on the cake is compatibility with other systems including PC and PlayStation 5; you can literally have it plugged into an Xbox and something else at the same time and switch between the two systems without having to take off the headset.
The main drawbacks are the very high price ($279.
99/£249.99) which easily makes it one of the most expensive mainstream wired gaming headsets going right now, and the ear cushion material; it’s a form of leatherette – and in our experience with other headsets, that tends to split or degrade after a while, especially in hot conditions or very heavy use. The fact the decent microphone isn’t retract-to-mute is also a missed opportunity, and the need to have a cable running to the DAC and then to the Xbox also means you’ve got something else to potentially get in the way (or trip over) during a gaming session.
Overall though, these aren’t enough to change the fact the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro for Xbox provides an absolutely amazing audio experience on Xbox. So if you’ve got the budget and don’t mind the wired setup, this represents an outstanding and highly recommended option.
Read more: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro for Xbox review
The best Xbox One headset under $50
Image 1 of 4
(Image credit: Corsair)(Image credit: Corsair)
Corsair HS35
(Image credit: Corsair)
Corsair HS35
(Image credit: Corsair)
Corsair HS35
2.
Corsair HS35
The best Xbox One headset for under $50/£50
Specifications
Acoustic design: Closed Back
Cable length: 6ft / 1.8m
Drivers: 40mm
Weight: 8.8 oz
Compatibility: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, Mac, Mobile
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Excellent value for money
+
Decent sound
+
Nice and clear mic
Reasons to avoid
–
Lacks features and extras
–
Only stereo sound
A well-designed and lightweight budget headset that doesn’t forget the importance of decent audio.
Corsair HS35 review
Sometimes you want a cheaper headset. But just because you’re saving money, you shouldn’t have to put up with poor audio, terrible design, and lousy build quality. The Corsair HS35 is the headset for anyone looking to save money and still get a decent pair of cans for their Xbox One. This is a thoughtfully designed piece of kit, available in Xbox green, obviously, with a sturdy yet comfortable build and some impressive audio qualities.
Thanks to memory foam ear-cups and a comfy headband, the Corsair HS35 is still snug without being uncomfortable after several hours of play, and it’s tough enough to withstand being pulled on and off your head without too much care. The audio won’t win awards, but it’s on a par with most mid-range headsets, and manages some snappy treble (even if the bass can’t match the likes of the Razer Kraken TE). The mic is clear and detachable, and there’s a color-coded cable that plugs into any 3.5mm connection making it compatible with XSX|S too. Simple, easy, and very affordable.
Read more: Corsair HS35 review
The best Xbox One headset for most players
(Image credit: Microsoft)
3. Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset
The best Xbox One headset for most people
Specifications
Acoustic design: Closed back
Cable length: N/A
Drivers: 40mm
Weight: 312g
Comaptibility: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Great bass and surround sound
+
Great price
+
Clear mic for mutiplayer
Reasons to avoid
–
Mic monitoring could be better
–
Might be too small for larger heads
Out of nowhere, it has emerged as a headset all players will want to consider on the new generation of Xboxes.
Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset review
The official venture into Xbox One headsets from Microsoft comes in the form of the Xbox Wireless Headset. While really targeted at the Xbox Series X and to be a companion to that latest console, it works beautifully with Xbox One.
The first big wallop of excellence comes in the unavoidably good-value price tag: at just $99/£89, it is way cheaper than rival headsets that are of the same weight category, quality-wise. And it is quality in almost every way: it’s extremely comfortable, it has excellent audio performance with a clear audio soundscape, it features incredibly powerful bass, and the surround sound is solid too. A true highlight is the mic quality: this is tremendous, and it’s designed well as it can be tucked away neatly when not in use. The wireless Bluetooth connection is one of the best we’ve tested on the Xbox Series X too. If you like your accessories officials and maybe find yourself in a situation of getting your new-gen console-setup in order before you find that elusive Xbox Series X stock, then this is the headset to span the generational gap.
Read more: Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset
The best Xbox One headset from its own generation
Image 1 of 3
(Image credit: Steelseries)(Image credit: Steelseries)(Image credit: Steelseries)
4. Steelseries Arctis 9X
The best Xbox One headset from its own generation
Specifications
Acoustic design: Closed Back
Cable length: 4.3ft / 1.3m
Drivers: 40mm
Weight: 13 oz
Compatibility: Xbox One, PS4, PC, Switch, Mac, Mobile
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Wireless for Xbox One
+
Superb sound with 3D spacial on Xbox
+
Excellent battery life
Reasons to avoid
–
It’s expensive
–
‘Only’ 40mm drivers
The Steelseries Arctis 9X was very much the Xbox One headset of its moment, and is still the best option for anyone after a headset designed in the era of the previous generation (and therefore sits a little cheaper these days).
Specially engineered to work wirelessly with the console, it provides a near-perfect connection, combined with a rich audio experience, and impressive battery life. It’s a great package for anyone serious about sound and getting the most out of their Xbox games. While the headset comes with 40mm drivers, which are smaller than many similarly priced competitors, they’re well-tuned and deliver audio that punches well above its weight while retaining a nice clarity and richness.
The SteelSeries Arctis 9X is a cross-platform, dual-wireless wielding monster of a gaming headset
SteelSeries Arctis 9X review
The trademark SteelSeries ‘headband’ design offers good comfort levels too, meaning you can play for hours without really noticing that you’re wearing the headset, which clocks in at a respectable 13oz / 368g. The mic is clear, comes with decent noise-canceling, and is retractable for when you’re not using it. While you never completely remove the mic, it’s hidden enough for you to use this headset as an everyday pair of cans, connecting to phones and tablets via a Bluetooth connection.
That’s a real bonus. You can even plug in via the 3.5mm connection if you want to connect to other consoles or devices, although you lose a number of features like 3D Spatial Sound here.
It’s a superb all-rounder, but one that plays so very nicely with the Xbox One. If you want to seriously invest in a headset that does everything you need for gaming and beyond, the Steelseries Arctis 9X is well worth a look. It’s also compatible with Xbox Series X|S which is awesome.
Note: While SteelSeries has released new lines for this generation of console and gaming in the form of the Nova headsets, the 9X still holds up excellently. The new headsets may even drive the price of this one down too which will make it even better.
Read more: SteelSeries Arctis 9X review
The best value Xbox One headset
Image 1 of 5
(Image credit: Turtle Beach)(Image credit: Turtle Beach)(Image credit: Turtle Beach)(Image credit: Turtle Beach)(Image credit: Turtle Beach)
5.
Turtle Beach Recon 500
The best value wired Xbox One headset
Specifications
Acoustic design: Closed Back, over ear
Cable length: 1.3m/4ft
Drivers: 60mm Eclipse
Weight: c.600g
Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, PC, Switch, Mobile
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
THAT excellent sound
+
No ‘gamer aesthetic’ flare or design quirks
+
Zero distortion
Reasons to avoid
–
Nothing special about its construction materials
This is a great contender for best Xbox One headset that will also serve you incredibly well for a new-gen console if you’ve got one – or are yet to go one. And that’s all down to a simple wired connection that the Recon 500 offers – oh, and also the supreme audio quality and excellent value it offers too.
Against all odds, these headphones sound absolutely wonderful.
Turtle Beach Recon 500 review
You won’t find lavish gamer-y design flairs or the most premium construction materials on the Recon 500, then, since Turtle Beach’s latest in the long-running line costs less than $100/£100.
What you do find, crucially, is sound so good it takes you aback, and offers an Xbox One headset experience that is not hard on the wallet, but offers great bang for buck performance and value.
Wood composite injection technology. 60mm drivers. Dedicated woofers and tweeters per earcup. It doesn’t sound like the recipe for crisp, precise sound, and yet it all comes together in a powerful surge of ultra-responsive bass, detailed high end, and a pleasingly flat EQ curve with just a bit of audible kick further down the spectrum.
So that’s yours. Take it to the bank. But what isn’t coming along for the ride is much in the way of added features – this is a simple wired model (which offers greater flexibility and compatibility, of course) with just a mic mute, detachable mic arm, and volume scroll wheel in the way of physical controls. Not one for perennial tweakers then, but those who enjoy value, simplicity, and fundamentally great audio should scout out this new Recon.
Read more: Turtle Beach Recon 500 review
The best Xbox One headset for multiplayer
Image 1 of 3
(Image credit: Corsair)(Image credit: Corsair)(Image credit: Corsair)
6.
Corsair HS75 XB Wireless
The best Xbox One headset for multiplayer
Specifications
Acoustic design: Closed Back
Cable length: N/A
Drivers: 50mm
Weight: 13.2oz (374g)
Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Excellent mic
+
Great audio with booming bass
+
Comes with premium Dolby Atmos app
Reasons to avoid
–
Quite big
–
A bit dear
The Corsair HS75 XB Wireless is a ‘designed for Xbox’ product and doesn’t require a dongle to connect to your Xbox. However, unlike some other dongle-free Xbox One headsets, the connection is strong, stable, and reliable. The main actors in the HS7b XB’s performance are its booming pair of 50mm drivers. These make the headset excel at the most enthusiastic of battles and chaotic encounters, while another standout feature – the mic – means this is a superb gaming headset for multiplayer. Not only is the mic super clear, but it offers some of the best isolation around, doing a great job at cutting down on background noise around you.
Throw in a strong battery life of around 20 hours between charges, and the package soon becomes incredibly compelling.
Positional audio and a clear mic make it well-suited for online gaming and Dolby Atmos support provides a great audio soundscape for single-player too.
Corsair HS75 XB review
Fans of premium audio will be pleased to hear that the HS75 XB comes with free access to the Dolby Atmos app on Xbox (usually $15/£15), complete with audio presets for gaming, movies, and music, and access to equalizer settings. These options are particularly handy, offering general flexibility, but also the chance to reign in the treble which can sometimes be a bit piercing. Not many games support full-on Dolby Atmos audio yet, but the app’s settings are worth experimenting with for any game, especially as you can switch on some quality positional audio, offering a potential edge in online shooters.
The build and design quality also help to further justify the price of admission, with the brushed metal earcup yokes feeling like they’ll protect the headset from any drops – on their sides at least – while looking good too.
Leatherette coverings around the headband and cups, along with soft padding, make the HS75 XB a comfortable wear. They do feel quite large though, and even on the smaller band settings it was quite a loose fit, especially over the ears – but then again this helped our ears stay cool.
Read more: Corsair HS75 XB review
The best Xbox One headset for haptics
Image 1 of 4
(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)
7. Razer Nari Ultimate
The best Xbox One headset for haptic feedback
Specifications
Acoustic design: Closed back, over ear
Cable length: 1.2m
Drivers: 50mm Neodymium
Weight: 432g
Compatibility: Xbox Series X / Xbox One
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
HyperSense haptic technology is amazing
+
Can be customized
+
THX Spatial Audio support
+
Short recharge time
+
Excellent audio quality all round
Reasons to avoid
–
Auto-adjusting headband is a poor fit for smaller heads
–
Earcups are difficult to clean
The Razer Nari Ultimate blew us away with its responsive, immersive haptic feedback when we first got our hands on it in 2020, and it continues to impress today.
Back on release, the Nari Ultimate was one of the first Xbox One headsets offering this level of rumble between the ears, with revolutionary L5 haptic drivers working independently to provide not just feedback, but directionally precise feedback. That means you’ll feel the impact of far away explosions differently to the sound of your own weapon, with tracking across the left and right cup working to reproduce rumble horizontally as well.
The drivers act independently of one another, so depending on the action in-game, you’ll feel the tactile feedback adjust, getting weaker in one earcup and stronger in the other
Razer Nari Ultimate review
This isn’t just a piece of show-off tech, though. The Nari Ultimate comes in a stylish gunmetal chassis and offers up a clear, well-balanced soundscape across a range of genres. While we did notice the Ultimate struggling when it came to music, the additional bass in this profile does work to add a robust quality to the sound.
This is a very gamey headset, with chunky cups, a floating headband, and Razer logos emblazoned on each side. That headband is also auto-adjusting, which is neat for a ‘fuss-free’ setup, but we did notice that those with smaller heads aren’t going to get such a reliable fit. The cups ended up dropping below the jawline in our testing, resting against the side of the head rather than looping around the ears. While there are some nice eye-wear channels to allow for those with glasses, they rested in an uncomfortable position for us, which meant play sessions could reach past an hour or so. It’s well worth reconsidering if you’ve got a particularly small head.
Everything else is made with luxurious comfort in mind, from the cooling gel-infused memory foam ear cushions to the heat transfer fabric. Add in Razer Chroma support and you’ve got yourself a good looking headset.
Read more: Razer Nari Ultimate review
Xbox One headsets: FAQ
(Image credit: Future/Royce Wilson)
How do I choose an Xbox One headset?
Given the saturation of the Xbox One headset market, this is a legitimately good question; it really can feel like a mammoth task to try and narrow your search down, or to try and ‘guess’ at the differences between sets – after all, basically no one ever has all the top sets right in front of them for direct comparisons.
However, our best Xbox One headset list will guide you to top quality headsets. They are all compatible, offer quality audio for their price point, offer both wired and wireless options, and have different feature sets and specs. Teamed with price, these are the exact things to think about when whittling down your options; be methodical, be ruthless at times, and you will find the perfect set for you.
Are Xbox One headsets compatible with Xbox Series X?
In general, the vast majority of Xbox One headsets are compatible with Xbox Series X – there are only very few outliers. That means you’ll likely find that Xbox One headsets are easily transferable to your new console if you’re lucky enough to grab one. Just to make sure, though, we’d recommend checking with the manufacturer’s product information to double check.
How much should you spend on an Xbox One headset?
Now more than ever this is a particularly pertinent and important question. Just because some headsets offer literally everything doesn’t mean they are worth the $300 or something for you.
These one might be more aspirational than ever but will always be great for those that can afford such premium sets.
In truth, however, the best Xbox One headsets come in a variety of price points and forms. For example, the best cheap Xbox One headset on our list, the Corsair HS35 is a brilliant value headset given it’s price of entry. You could possibly even go a bit cheaper than this but we would recommend using this as a good point that balances quality and value.
You need to think of your own budget when shopping for a new headset and then you can see what ones lie within that, or just beyond. Think about the must-hjave features – multi-platform compatibility, EQ adjustments, detachable microphone, and so on – and you can easily start whittling your options down. Rest assured though, our best Xbox One headset guide should definitely have something for you, no matter your budget.
How we test Xbox One headsets
Why you can trust GamesRadar+
Our experts review games, movies and tech over countless hours, so you can choose the best for you.
More of a music fan? Check out our guide to the best headphones. Or, to save even more on your new setup, take a look at the latest Xbox Series S bundles. We’re also rounding up plenty more of the best Xbox One accessories for further inspiration.
Also be sure to check out the best TVs for Xbox Series X and the best gaming TVs to give you the best options visually too.
Round up of today’s best deals
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro for Xbox
£179.99
View
See all prices
Corsair HS35
£44.99
View
See all prices
Xbox Wireless Headset
£89.99
View
See all prices
SteelSeries Arctis 9X
£194.99
£145.30
View
See all prices
Turtle Beach Recon 500
£69.99
£41.63
View
See all prices
Corsair HS75 XB Wireless
£89.99
View
See all prices
Razer Nari Ultimate for Xbox One
£178.
35
View
See all prices
powered by
Weekly digests, tales from the communities you love, and more
Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors
Rob is the Deputy Editor of sister site, TechRadar Gaming, and has been in the games and tech industry for years. Prior to a recent stint as Gaming Editor at WePC, Rob was the Commissioning Editor for Hardware at GamesRadar+, and was on the hardware team for more than four years, since its inception in late 2018. He is also a writer on games and has had work published over the last six years or so at the likes of Eurogamer, RPS, PCGN, and more. He is also a qualified landscape and garden designer, so does that in his spare time, while he is also an expert on the virtual landscapes and environments of games and loves to write about them too, including in an upcoming book on the topic!
Best Headsets For Xbox Series X|S In 2023
By
Lu-Hai Liang
These are the best gaming headsets to immerse yourself in the Xbox Series X|S.
Getting the best Xbox Series X|S headset can transform your playing experience, bringing the action closer and better placing you in the game.
With TV speakers often being on the thin side nowadays, to get a more immersive gaming experience often means putting on a headset. You might also want headphones so as not to disturb others in your household or you might need to talk to other players when playing an online game. However, selecting an Xbox headset is somewhat more considered when it comes to wireless headsets since Microsoft’s consoles use their own Xbox Wireless connection standard.
Related: Best Xbox Series X|S Controllers In 2023
There are a range of options for Xbox Series X|S headsets and the best one might differ depending on your needs. You might need a headset within a certain budget, for example, or a pair that work equally well with other consoles. There are wireless and wired options, headsets that offer removable or retractable mics, and then there are those that prioritise sound quality above all else. We have a range of options so look no further for the best Xbox Series headsets available right now.
These Are The Best Xbox Series X|S Headsets In 2023
Steelseries Arctis 1 Wireless for Xbox
Best Xbox Series X/S Headset Overall
A Lot Of Headset For The Money
The Steelseries Arctis 1 Wireless headset for Xbox is competitively priced coming in at under $100 and for the money you get plenty of features. The ClearCast bidirectional mic should have you sounding clear and crisp when you’re communicating online. The sound balance is solid across the board, while the 20-hour battery life gives the Arctis 1 the edge over the official Xbox Wireless headset.
Pros
- Balanced sound profile
- Detachable mic
- Attractively priced
- Works wirelessly with other systems too
Cons
- Other headsets have comfier designs
- Sound isn’t the most insightful
$100 at Amazon $100 at Walmart
The Arctis 1 Wireless headset for Xbox stands out for several reasons. It has one of the clearest mics among gaming headsets, works with multiple devices, and offers solid, if not spectacular, sound quality, all for a relatively low price.
That’s quite an offering. The official Xbox Wireless headset is also an excellent contender, with superior sound performance to the Arctis 1s, but the SteelSeries headset includes much better battery life and the ability to work with other gaming systems besides Xbox, so it gets the slight nod ahead.
Using a USB-C dongle, the Arctis 1 Wireless can pair with the Nintendo Switch (docked or undocked), PS4 and PS5, PC, and Android devices, with a simple switch on the dongle itself. There’s also a USB-A adapter cable and 3.5mm audio cable, giving this headset impressive versatility. But some compromises had to be taken, to get the Arctis 1 Wireless to under $100, and the most notable is the steel headband that has rigid notches instead of the more elastic and adjustable design of the pricier headsets in the SteelSeries range.
Xbox Stereo Headset
Best Official Xbox Headset
Xbox Style
This is the Xbox gaming headset and since they’re the officially branded headset you can be sure that they will work perfecly with your Xbox Series X/S.
Coming in both wired and wireless versions, these will be tuned to work well with Xbox and PC and supports formats such as Windows Sonic, Dolby Atmos, and DTS.
Pros
- Stylish
- Pairs well the Xbox Series
- Supports a variety of spatial and surround sound formats
- Good sound performance
Cons
- Battery life could be better
- Mic is neither removable or retractable
$85 at Walmart $100 at Best Buy
These Xbox Wireless headsets, also known as Xbox Stereo headsets, will work great with Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and PC. Designed and built for Xbox, these have a design language that pairs well with the minimalist-industrial chic that Microsoft has gone for with its consoles.The build quality is solid, with soft and large earcups, on-ear controls, and an adjustable mic. However, the battery life is one obvious weakness as it lasts around 12 hours of usage time.
There’s detailed and impressive sound, especially in the mids and low-end, and support for spatial audio and a range of formats including Windows Sonic, Dolby Atmos, and DTS: X.
These headsets also come with the neat trick of being able to connect to a Bluetooth device, opening up the option to listen to a podcast or your own curated playlist from your phone, for example, while you’re gaming.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Xbox Multi-System Gaming Headset
Best Premium Xbox Headset
High-End Features
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is a premium option among Xbox headsets and is regarded as the best pick for those looking for something high-end. With 40mm Neodymium drivers, the Nova Pro is fully compatible with Microsoft’s Spatial Sound for Xbox. Build quality is of a high standard with plush earcups and an elastic headband. These headsets also feature an AI noise cancelling mic that seamlessly retracts into the earcup. Overall it’s an attractive combination of features that you’d expect from a high-end pair of gaming headphones.
Pros
- Robust and plush build
- Bigger soundstage than cheaper sets
- Retractable mic
- Extensive EQ customization
Cons
- Expensive
$350 at Amazon $350 at Walmart $350 at Best Buy
Those looking for one of the most complete packages among gaming headsets should look to the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro.
These headsets have Multi-System Connect that allows users to switch between Xbox, PS5, PC or Nintendo Switch with the press of a button, while supporting Microsoft Spatial Sound (and the PS5’s 3D Audio) to boot.
The EQ settings allow players to customise their sound profile to adjust bass and treble to suit preferences or a particular game, while the bidirectional mic should have your voice coming through clear and crisp. These premium headsets come with a GameDAC that offers Hi-Res audio resolution and purer signal for less noise and distortion. As a high-end gaming headset expect robust build quality and a premium feel.
Razer BlackShark V2 X Gaming Headset
Best Budget Xbox Headset
Competitive Sound
For an affordable price those looking for a gaming headset can pick up the Razer BlackShark V2 X, which is even good enough to be used in esports. This is because these budget headsets have 7.1 surround sound support. The audio will especially help with online multiplayer shooters as it’ll help players to position the direction and location of gunfire and footsteps.
Pros
- Clear and reliable mic
- Comfy and lightweight
- Great sound for the price
Cons
- Mic is fixed
- Wired
$50 at Amazon $58 at Walmart $50 at Best Buy
These Razer headsets offer quite a lot for their price. Featuring 50mm drivers and a HyperClear Cardioid microphone, the headset is also lightweight and comfortable for long periods of play. Using a 3.5mm jack the BlackShark V2 X works with a range of platforms too.
Those who can afford the extra dollar should take a peek at its more expensive variant, the BlackShark V2 (sans the ‘X’) since it features improved build quality and allows for THX Spatial Audio. But the V2 X features sound performance very close in quality to its pricier variant while still simulating surround sound and having a reliable mic.
Audeze Maxwell
Best Xbox Headset For Sound Quality
For Audiophiles
The Audeze Maxwell wireless gaming headset for Xbox is a premium headset for those wanting the ultimate in sound quality.
These feature massive 90mm planar drivers allowing for deeper bass and a wider soundstage than most gaming headsets. The trade-off is that they’re somewhat heavier and bulkier than most. But the sweetener is their class-leading 80-hour battery life. The boom mic also offers clear and natural-sounding voice communication.
Pros
- Class-leading audio quality
- Great performance from the boom mic
- Outstanding battery life
Cons
- Heavier than most
$329 at Official Site $329 at Amazon
For Xbox gamers who value sound performance above everything, the Audeze Maxwell will deliver the goods. With 90mm planar drivers, these will appeal to audiophiles but also work well as gaming headsets with their AI noise-filtering microphones and detachable boom mic. The enormous 80-hour battery life is head and shoulders above the competition too, while Bluetooth 5.3 is another differentiator with support for LC3plus, LDAC, and AAC formats for general music use.
The Audeze Maxwell are compatible with the Xbox Series’ Dolby Atmos and users can customize their listening experience using Audeze’s HQ gaming app, which can also save up to four user-defined EQ profiles. Those wanting the ultimate in sound quality may be forced to wait as the Maxwells aren’t widely available but it’ll be worth it.
Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX Multiplatform Amplified Wireless Gaming Headset
Best Xbox Headset For PS5 Gamers
Multiplatform Capabilities
The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 Max are convenient and versatile especially for those who regularly switch between gaming on an Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5. Although officially licensed by Microsoft for Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One, these headsets are also compatible with PS5 with the flip of a switch on the transmitter. They also work with PS4, PC, Mac, and Nintendo Switch, and the 2.4Ghz Bluetooth make them play nice with Android and iOS devices to boot. Meanwhile, you’ll get detailed sound, good bass, a comfortable design, and 40 hours of battery life.
Pros
- Very versatile
- Handy switch dial
- Good gaming sound performance
- 40-hour battery life
Cons
- Quite pricey
- Stiff competition
$170 at Amazon $170 at Walmart $170 at Best Buy
While the so-called console wars play out, many gamers are happily enjoying playing their Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5 consoles, taking advantage of their respective libraries and exclusives. For these gamers, the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 Max offers great battery life and the neat feature of being able to flip between the two via a simple switch. These are a good choice for glasses wearers too, with softer foam on the relevant parts of the ear cushions.
For those unwilling to splash out on the premium options, then the SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless headset for Xbox will satisfy most Xbox players. The headset has one of the best mics on the market, which is also detachable, and for the price offers a ton of versatility.
The official Xbox Wireless headset offers superior sound quality, however, but its mic is fixed and it has worse battery life, meaning buyers will have to weigh up which they prefer. The premium option in the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless for Xbox will be more comfortable, better sounding, and more customizable, while also being very versatile, so if you can find the money that’s the best option if your budget extends to it.
FAQ
Can I use my PS5 and Xbox headset interchangeably?
The answer to this question is: it depends. But in general, wireless headsets cannot be used interchangeably between the Sony’s PlayStation 5 and Microsoft’s Xbox Series consoles unless that headset specifically says it can be. This is because the Xbox Series X/S uses Microsoft’s proprietary wireless connection standard. However, since the standard controller for the Xbox Series has a 3.5mm headphone jack most wired headsets should work fine once plugged into the controller.
Wired or wireless?
While wired headsets can be more convenient, especially if you sit far away from the TV, wired headsets do come with certain advantages. Being plugged in, wired headsets will have a more dependable connection at all times, and you don’t have to worry about battery life. Wired headsets tend to cheaper than their wireless counterparts too, while many brands have versions of their headsets in either wired or wireless. If you want to save money, then the wired headset will often be the way to go.
Next: Best Retro Handheld Consoles In 2023
We hope you like the items we recommend and discuss! TheGamer has affiliate and sponsored partnerships, so we receive a share of the revenue from some of your purchases. This won’t affect the price you pay and helps us offer the best product recommendations.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Related Topics
- Tech
- Xbox Series X
- Xbox
- Microsoft
- Xbox Series S
About The Author
Lu-Hai is a news editor at TheGamer.
He has bylines in Eurogamer, IGN, Paste, Kotaku, and Wired, among others. He can be reached at [email protected]
How to choose a microphone for streaming”
05/29/2018
Streaming is one of the most popular modern video blogging trends. What the authors do and do not do in order to interest the audience. And if the theme and message are successful, then the army of subscribers is growing at an explosive pace.
Most recently, we published an article about what to look for when choosing a camera for recording stims. And in this article we will tell you what to look for when choosing a microphone for streaming.
It is not uncommon for streamers to invest heavily in the purchase of video cameras, forgetting that it is necessary to provide not only a beautiful picture, but also at least intelligible speech. Leftover mic selection and funding can have a very negative effect on the rate at which your channel grows later.
Therefore, the first advice is to select video and sound at the same time, and then buy them as one set.
The second recommendation is to choose a microphone according to the type of stream. So, if you stream sitting still, then you can get by with a desktop microphone, a lavalier, or a head-mounted option. If you are cooking, playing music or broadcasting any other video where you are not just sitting still, but moving around the frame, then you will need boundary layer microphones (placed simultaneously in several parts of the room), a directional microphone or a radio lavalier / head microphone. If guests are expected on the stream, then you still need a supply of additional microphones.
Thirdly, it is worth considering that if you have a relatively high voice, then it will be easier for you to choose the right microphone. Since even cheap models do a good job with high voices. And if you are the owner of a deep bass, baritone or hoarse voice, then choosing a microphone will become a problem – not every microphone will cope with the full capture of your voice.
In this case, you will most likely have to seek help from shops with professional music and TV-radio-broadcasting equipment and listen to many different models.
Fourth, even if you don’t initially plan to leave your streamer’s living quarters, make sure you buy at least one standalone microphone or portable sound recorder that supports connecting your wired microphones. You will appreciate your foresight if you later decide to interview someone, or attend an event (exhibition, festival or conference) related to the topic of your streams.
Fifth, when purchasing a microphone, take care to protect it and ensure the highest possible sound quality. Do not save on pop filters (fabric screen to muffle hissing and percussive sounds on desktop microphones), wind protection (foam rubber or “shaggy” microphone tips to protect against wind blowing and all the same hissing / shock), stands and vibration dampers ( protect the microphone from transmitting through the stand the sounds of moving hands on the table or footsteps on the floor) for microphones.
If you have a noisy room and / or sound reflection is heard through the microphone as an echo – be sure to buy or build a sound-damping barrier yourself, or paste sound panels on the walls.
That’s all for today. We hope our recommendations will help you in choosing the perfect equipment for organizing streams. Good luck and creative success.
Edifier G2 II vs Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset: What is the difference?
53 points
Edifier G2 II
46 points
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
€ 44 0055 € 60
Comparison Winner
€ 44
€ 60
vs
51 facts in comparison
9000 2 Edifier G2 II
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
Why is Edifier G2 II better than Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset?
- Has a noise canceling microphone?
- 10mm bigger driver?
50mm vs 40mm - 20g lighter?
266g vs 286g - Has a control panel on the cable?
- Open design?
Why is Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset better than Edifier G2 II?
- Connection?
3. 5mm vs - Is the control panel built into the device?
5mm vs Edifier G2 II
vs
Edifier G20
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
vs
Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset
Edifier G2 II 9000 3
vs
Logitech G432
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset 9
vs
Edifier Gx
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
vs
Turtle Beach Ear Force X O Four Stealth
Edifier G2 II
vs
Edifier G2
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
vs
HyperX Cloud Alpha
Edifier G2 II
vs
Asus ROG Cetra
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
vs
HyperX Cloud II
Edifier G2 II
vs
Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
vs
HyperX Cloud Stinger Core
Edifier G2 II
vs
ASUS TUF Gaming h4
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
vs
Astro A10
Edifier G2 II
vs
Edifier G4
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
vs 9000 3
Corsair HS50 Pro
Edifier G2 II
vs
Gigabyte Aorus h2
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
vs
Corsair HS35
Edifier G2 II
vs
JBL Quantum 300
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
vs
Corsair HS60
Price Match
Edifier G2 II
| Product | Shop | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
Edifier G2 II Gaming Headset Weiß White . ..Edifier G2 II Gaming Headset Weiß White Kopfhörer G2II Ohrpolster Mikrofon USB |
€44 | ||
| Edifier G2 II Gaming Head set Schwarz Bla…Edifier G2 II Gaming Headset Schwarz Black Kopfhörer G2II Ohrpolster Mikrofon | €44 | ||
| Stylisches Gaming Headset G2 II schwarz …Stylisches Gaming Headset G2 II schwarz v. Edifier m. 7.1 Surround & Mikro G2II | €44 | ||
| G2II-WT Edifier Headset G2 II Gaming 7.1…G2II-WT Edifier Headset G2 II Gaming 7.1 USB RGB white retail – ~D~ | 90 262 | €97 | |
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
| Product | Store | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Xbox Headset Gaming-Headset – …Microsoft Xbox Headset Gaming-Headset – Schwarz | €60 | ||
| Headset Microsoft Xbox One XS Wireless Kopfhörer Sound Stereo Gaming Schwarz GUT | €6 4 | ||
| Microsoft XBOX Stereo Headset Schwarz | € 45 | ||
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Gaming Headset -ko . .. Microsoft Xbox Stereo Gaming Headset -kopfhörr Chwarz |
€ 49 | ||
User reviews
Overall rating
Edifier G2 II
2 User reviews
Edifier G2 II
8.5 903 70 /10
2 User reviews
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
0 User reviews
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
0.0 /10
0 User Reviews
Features
Build Quality
No reviews yet
No reviews yet
Microphone quality 2 votes
No reviews yet
Comfort
8.5 /10
2 votes
No reviews yet
90 002
Breathability
8.0 /10
2 Votes
reviews yet there is no
Sound quality
The lowest frequency of
The lowest frequency at which the device produces sound. The lower the low frequencies are set, the stronger and richer the bass.
highest frequency
20000Hz
20000Hz
The highest frequency at which the device produces sound. The higher the high frequencies are tuned, the cleaner and more collected the treble.
has Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
✔Edifier G2 II
✔Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
This type of device allows you to listen at lower volume levels, which results in less ear fatigue because you don’t have to max out the sound, to drown out background noise. Ideal for use on airplanes and morning transport.
driver block size
A driver is a component that plays sound in a device. The larger the drivers, the more powerful they are and can reproduce lower bass.
sound pressure level
101dB/mW
Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset)
Devices with higher SPL tend to be louder.
resistance
32 Ohms
32 Ohms
Electrical resistance of the device to waves passing through it.
The lower the resistance, the easier it is to get louder sounds and the less power is required.
has neodymium magnet
✔Edifier G2 II
✔Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
Devices with neodymium magnets are lighter and more powerful than those using ferrite magnets. They also have more bass and cleaner highs.
is passive noise isolating
✔Edifier G2 II
✔Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
Sealed device acoustically isolates your ears from the environment, and the sound is not heard by those around you.
number of drivers
Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset)
The speaker driver has a custom transducer that converts electrical energy into sound waves. More drivers can mean better sound quality.
Microphone
has a noise canceling microphone
✔Edifier G2 II
✖Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
These microphones are designed to filter out noise from the desired sound.
Especially useful in noisy environments.
lowest microphone frequency
Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Edifier G2 II)
Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset)
Minimum frequencies that the microphone can pick up. Best for bass recording.
highest microphone frequency
Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Edifier G2 II)
Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset)
The maximum frequencies that the microphone can pick up. Best for recording trebles.
has detachable microphone
✖Edifier G2 II
✖Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
Microphone can be connected or disconnected as required.
has a mute function
✔Edifier G2 II
✔Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
The device has the ability to mute/unmute the conversation directly from the device.
Microphone sensitivity
Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Edifier G2 II)
Unknown.
Help us offer a price. (Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset)
This is the highest sound volume that the microphone can pick up.
number of microphones
The more microphones a device has, the better it filters out background noise and improves the overall sound recording quality.
Power
Battery life
Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Edifier G2 II)
Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset)
Manufacturer’s recommended battery life (when in use). With a longer battery life, you will charge your device less often.
charging time
Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Edifier G2 II)
Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset)
The time required to fully charge the battery.
battery capacity
Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Edifier G2 II)
Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset)
Battery charge, or battery capacity, is the amount of electrical energy stored in the battery.
The higher the battery charge, the longer the battery life.
has battery
✖Edifier G2 II
✖Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
The device’s battery can be charged and used again.
has a battery level indicator
✖Edifier G2 II
✖Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
The indicator shows that the battery level is low.
has replaceable battery
✖Edifier G2 II
✖Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
User can replace battery in case of failure
Connection
Connection
Headphone connection method.
compatibility
PlayStation, Xbox
Systems with which the headset is compatible, according to the manufacturer.
Can be used wirelessly.
✖Edifier G2 II
✖Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
Wireless devices give users greater freedom of movement when listening.
Has USB Type-C
✖Edifier G2 II
✖Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
USB Type-C has reversible connector orientation and cable routing.
Features
control panel built into device
✖Edifier G2 II
✔Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
The control panel is on the device so you can easily access and control the volume control without interfering with a cable or other device connected to it.
can be used as a headset
✔Edifier G2 II
✔Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
The headset is a single earpiece or a pair with a built-in microphone. Can be used for applications that require communication, i.e. Skype, voice chat games, mobile phones, etc.
has vibration function
✖Edifier G2 II
✖Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
The unit offers a realistic deep bass sound experience for gamers.
has a control panel on the cable
✔Edifier G2 II
✖Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
There is a control panel on the cable that you can use to control the device without interacting with it.
warranty period
1 years
1 years
When the product is under the manufacturer’s warranty, in the event of a malfunction, a replacement can be obtained.
Depends on the region.
transport bag included
✖Edifier G2 II
✖Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
The unit comes with its own case or bag that can be used for safe transportation.
Price match
Edifier G2 II
| Product | Store | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edifier G2 II Gaming Headset Weiß White …Edifier G2 II Gaming Headset Weiß White Kopfhörer G2II Ohrpolster Mikrofon USB | €44 | ||
| Edifier G2 II Gaming Headset Schwarz Bla…Edifier G2 II Gaming Headset Schwarz Black Kopfhörer G2II Ohrpolster Mikrofon | 902 62 | €44 | |
| Stylisches Gaming Headset G2 II schwarz …Stylisches Gaming Headset G2 II schwarz v. Edifier m. G2II-WT Edifier Headset G2 II Gaming 7.1…G2II-WT Edifier Headset G2 II Gaming 7.1 USB RGB white retail – ~D~ | €97 | ||
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
| Product | Store | Price 902 52 | |
|---|---|---|---|
Microsoft Xbox Headset Gaming-Headset – .
| |||