Top Gaming Headsets of 2025: Wired vs. Wireless

Navigating the vast array of gaming headsets can be overwhelming, but understanding your priorities such as budget, sound quality, comfort, and desired features is key to finding the perfect one. Relying on expert reviews and first-hand experiences can guide you toward a headset that meets your specific gaming needs.

With years of reviewing headphones and gaming headsets, I've honed my understanding of what makes them exceptional. Each recommendation in this guide is chosen for its overall performance and excellence in specific categories, from budget-friendly options like the HyperX Cloud III to high-end choices like the Audeze Maxwell. Advanced features such as virtual surround sound, active noise cancellation, and customizable EQ profiles are highlighted in top wireless models like the JBL Quantum One, Turtle Beach Stealth Pro, and Logitech G Pro X 2.

TL;DR: These Are the Best Gaming Headsets:

Our Top Pick### 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### SennheiserHD 620S

4See it at Amazon### JBL Quantum One

3See it at Amazon### LogitechG Pro X 2

6See it at Amazon### Turtle Beach Stealth Pro

2See it at Amazon### RazerHammerhead Pro HyperSpeed

6See it at Amazon

This guide offers a comprehensive look at top gaming headsets, categorized by their strengths. While there are many excellent options available, these recommendations are based on rigorous testing by my team and myself. I will continue to update this list as new models are released, so keep checking back for the latest insights and recommendations.

This guide contains contributions by Danielle Abraham and Adam Matthew.

20 Images1. SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless

Best Gaming Headset

Our Top Pick### SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless

29Multiple connectivity options, including simultaneous listening on different devices, a hot-swappable battery, excellent sound, and hybrid active noise canceling make this a hard-to-top headset. See it at AmazonSee it at Target

Product Specifications Connectivity: 2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth, wired Drivers: 40mm Neodymium Battery life: 18-22 hours (per battery) Weight: 338g

Pros:

• Fully featured with ANC, base station, etc
• Swappable battery system is innovative
• Fantastic sound quality

Cons:

• ANC could be better

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is a standout with its advanced features and superior audio quality. It builds upon the strengths of its predecessor, adding active noise cancellation and enhanced sound technology. The hybrid noise-canceling system, equipped with four microphones, effectively minimizes external noise, allowing you to focus on the game.

With its bold and balanced audio, the Nova Pro delivers exceptional sound quality right out of the box. The spatial audio feature is vital for competitive gaming, enabling you to pinpoint enemy movements with precision. Customization is at your fingertips with the Sonar and SteelSeries GG app, allowing you to fine-tune the EQ settings and game-chat mix.

The design of the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless has evolved significantly, featuring telescoping arms on the headband for better fit and slimmer, sleeker earcups that maintain the comfort synonymous with SteelSeries. The hot-swappable battery system is a game-changer, ensuring you never have to interrupt your gameplay to recharge.

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro is one of the best headsets on the market today, offering a well-rounded experience with top-notch features, excellent sound quality, and unmatched comfort. It earned a perfect score in our review for its outstanding performance across the board.

IGN Deals' Picks: The Best Gaming Headset Deals

Logitech G733 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Headset- $127.44 Logitech G635 DTS Gaming Headset- $69.99 Razer Kraken Tournament Edition- $52.99 For more hand-picked deals, visit IGN Deals

HyperX Cloud III – Photos

6 Images2. HyperX Cloud III

Best Budget Gaming Headset

### HyperX Cloud III

8The HyperX Cloud III is a wired gaming headset that's compatible with everything, thanks to its 3.5mm audio connection. See it at Amazon

Product Specifications Connectivity: Wired (3.5mm), USB-A / USB-C Drivers: 53mm Angles Drivers Battery life: N/A Weight: 318g

Pros:

• Extremely durable and flexible
• Dense earpads for premium-grade comfort
• Great sound and mic quality, especially in its price range

Cons:

• May clamp a little too tight

The HyperX Cloud III offers unbeatable value for budget-conscious gamers. Its robust aluminum frame is both durable and flexible, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The headset's dense foam earpads, wrapped in leatherette, provide exceptional comfort, although they may feel a bit tight on some users.

The Cloud III excels in sound quality, delivering impressive clarity across various frequencies. Whether you're tracking footsteps in Valorant or enjoying the immersive audio of Final Fantasy XIV, this budget-friendly headset performs admirably. The microphone quality is equally noteworthy, making it a solid choice for gamers on a budget.

3. Audeze Maxwell

Best High-End Gaming Headset

### Audeze Maxwell

15The Audeze Maxwell is a high-end wireless gaming headset from one of the best headphone manufacturers on the planet. See it at Amazon

Product Specifications Connectivity: USB-A / USB-C, Bluetooth 5.3, 3.5mm wired Drivers: 90mm planar magnetic Battery life: 80+ hours Weight: 490g

Pros:

• Top-notch audio experience
• Sleek, low-key design

Cons:

• Leans on the heavier side

The Audeze Maxwell sets a new standard for high-end gaming headsets, delivering an unparalleled audio experience. Its sleek design, reminiscent of audiophile headphones, belies its gaming prowess. The 90mm planar magnetic drivers provide exceptional clarity and a rich, natural sound profile, setting it apart from other high-end options.

While the Maxwell is comfortable, it is heavier than most gaming headsets. However, its robust construction and long battery life justify the weight, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize audio quality and longevity.

Turtle Beach Atlas Air - Photos

16 Images4. Turtle Beach Atlas Air

Best Wireless Gaming Headset

### Turtle Beach Atlas Air

4The Turtle Beach Atlas Air is an open-back gaming headset with some serious audio fidelity. See it at Amazon

Product Specifications Connectivity: 2.4GHz, Bluetooth, 3.5mm wired Drivers: 40mm drivers Battery life: 50 hours Weight: 301g

Pros:

• Extremely comfortable with light clamp force
• Open-back design elevates sound quality

Cons:

• Mediocre microphone

The Turtle Beach Atlas Air stands out for its comfort and audio quality. Its soft, cushioned earpads and light clamp force make it ideal for long gaming sessions. The open-back design enhances the audio experience, offering a spacious and full sound that is rare in gaming headsets.

While the microphone is not its strongest feature, the Atlas Air excels in providing a comfortable and immersive audio experience. Its Swarm software allows for customization of EQ profiles, enhancing its versatility for different gaming scenarios.

Turtle Beach Stealth 500 Headset - Photos

7 Images5. Turtle Beach Stealth 500

Best Budget Wireless Gaming Headset

### Turtle Beach Stealth 500

4The Turtle Beach Stealth 500 is a wireless gaming headset for under $100, and you can't beat that value. See it at Amazon

Product Specifications Connectivity: 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.2 Drivers: 40mm drivers Battery life: 40 hours Weight: 235g

Pros:

• Durable and flexible build
• Great sound quality for its price

Cons:

• Bulky design with messy button layout

The Turtle Beach Stealth 500 offers excellent value for those seeking a budget-friendly wireless gaming headset. Its durable and flexible design ensures comfort and ease of use, despite its bulkier appearance. The sound quality is impressive for its price point, with strong bass and clear mids that enhance the gaming experience.

While the microphone is serviceable, the Stealth 500's strengths lie in its sound quality and positional audio, making it a solid choice for competitive gaming. Its Bluetooth capabilities and long battery life add to its appeal, earning it a commendable score in our review.