Advancements in gaming technology continue to make gaming experiences more immersive through not just visuals, but also audio and tactile factors. Thinking of making hardware upgrades to your gaming space? The best wireless gaming headsets imbue your gaming experience with the best audio outputs the gaming world can offer. They can take your gaming experience to a whole new level.
This wasn’t possible a few years ago when wireless headsets were at their early stages of development. But this year, the technology is ripening, and incredibly juicing up gaming experiences.
Many models are still struggling with teething problems, poor audio quality, fleeting battery power, and latency issues, but not our picks. In this review, we present you with the best gaming headsets to zero out distractions and zero in on your favorite games.
How we tested our picks to choose the best wireless gaming headset
As a newer technology, wireless headphones must prove their superiority by first edging traditional wired models in terms of fundamentals like audio quality, tone, durability. Once this is settled, we can then consider the other innovative bells and whistles. We subjected our picks through this method of assessment, and they all came out quite impressive.
We tested for the basics by using the models to play various genres of games. We tested surround quality through positional audio tests. For unique wireless headphone features such as the battery, range, and latency, we devised some meticulous tests which lasted for several days.
Our test for battery life was pretty straight forward. It included testing for how long a full charge can last when the volume is at the highest level, and how long it took to get a full charge.
Our range test wasn’t quite as straight forward, but it basically entailed taking a walk around the vicinity. The range generally is higher for console-specific models that cross-compatible ones. Our latency test was the least systematic. Although it was mostly subjective, it was carried out with steep expertise.
Since wireless is a space undergoing speedy improvements, we’re expecting the quick release of more new models with better features. But for now, the products that performed best in our recent tests will be ruling the rooster.
The Best wireless Gaming Headsets in 2019
1. Audeze Mobius — Best for PC
For its high price, Audeze Mobius delivers nearly unmatched performance on PC. It comes with a 3D surround feature that’s incredibly detail-oriented. Its sound production is as good as it gets in the gaming industry. With its 3D audio tech, the headset creates a virtual audio environment where it tracks your head movement. It increases/decreases volume depending on how you turn your head.
But there are a lot more features that make it a well-rounded and extremely versatile model. With its impressive array of connectivity features, the model is an ideal option for playing games, watching movies and listening to music. And with a headband that sports memory foam, the headset can get so comfortable, you can use it conveniently for countless hours across various devices. You can proudly sport it outdoors thanks to its eye-catching aesthetics.
Pros
- Top-notch sound quality
- An impressive array of connectivity options
- A detail-oriented 3D surround quality
Cons
- High-end pricing
- Memory foam adjustment can take a little while
2. Razer Nari Ultimate — The Best Wireless Gaming Headset for Haptic Feedback
With this product, industry leader Razer has managed to pull off a rather effusive integration of haptic drivers in an ingenious manner. This brings about a vibrating effect technology dubbed HyperSense, which works with a wide range of frequency to knock out bobbing and statics. As a result, the Nari Ultimate makes from a well-balanced ambiance by facilitating only short bursts of pulsation.
In another ingenious move, Razer also seeks to exploit classical tactile control with buttons and knobs instead of the regular personalization software common among most models. It lets users mute the mic, control game/chat balance, regulate volume, and attach your wireless USB dongle, all through knobs and buttons.
However, one area that it fails to give users a better sense of control is its limited compatibility, which excludes devices other than PC and PS4 consoles. Xbox and Nintendo Switch will not be connected to the Nari Ultimate wirelessly, but they can through a 3.5mm aux cable, which comes with the package.
Pros
- An ingenious manipulation of haptic feedback
- Top-notch sound production
- Knobs and buttons for tactile control
Cons
- Wireless compatibility is limited
- Lacks noise cancellation capabilities
3. HyperX Cloud Flight — Best for Battery Life
HyperX, a renowned gaming headset brand, marks its entry into the wireless market with an exceptional product. The Cloud Flight is well rounded and versatile. It’s compatible with PCs, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, as well as smart devices. It also comes with a highly durable yet lightweight build, making it a go-to headset for gameplay, music, and movies.
No matter the device it’s used with, it always delivers excellent sound quality. It boasts a Total Harmonic Distortion value that’s under 2%. That implies sound reproduction is nearly flawless. You can expect sound productions with resounding lows, crisp mids, and refined highs.
The Cloud Flight gives you the best combination of quality and comfort and is backed by a 2-year warranty.
Another key feature that adds to its comfort and aesthetics is the 90 degrees rotating ear cups fitted with LED lighting. These come with top-notch 50mm neodymium magnets. There’s also a detachable mic that you can take down when not in use, and which also cancels noises.
But the most irresistible attribute of the Cloud Flight is its autonomous battery life, which comes in at a staggering 30 hours with a full charge.
Pros
- Top-notch sound production for games, music, and videos
- An impressive range of compatibility options
- A detachable, noise-canceling mic
- LED lighting effects
- A 30-hour battery life
Cons
- Its price is on the high side
4. Corsair HS70 — The Best Budget
With this model, Corsair has managed to provide most of the impressive features of its upscale models to low-budget customers. The model delivers excellent sound production for game, music, and videos, thanks to its drivers which are streamlined toward flatter EQs.
The model can go head-to-head with many higher-end models in various aspects. The quality of the build is top-notch. From your first impression, you’ll easily believe the HS70 can last you for years. The sturdiness is brilliantly tampered for comfort, thanks to the excellent padding on the ear cups. However, the padding on the headband could use some work.
There’s also the perforated metallic finish on the earcups that has robbed most users the wrong way. But users don’t really mind since the model covers all the basics plus more at quite a cheap rate.
Pros
- Sturdy, durable build
- Impressive sound quality
- Excellent padding on the earcups
Cons
- The headband is a little tacky
5. Steelseries Arctis Pro Wireless — Best High-End
This model brings all the amazing specs of the wired SteelSeries 800 model plus a whole lot more to the wireless world. As a result, it edges the 800 model and every other high-end model on comfort and sound quality. It also boasts the same sound quality as that of the 7 series models.
At the heart of its ingenious design is its wireless transmitter station, a hub which hosts the control menu, lossless 2.4G, and Bluetooth wireless receiver, and charging port.
The Artics Pro also stands out from the competition by allowing you to switch a depleted battery for one fully charged with the transmitter box. The batteries can last up to 9 hours each with a full charge — that’s a total of 18 hours with two batteries, enough to keep you going on multiple devices in a go.
The packaging packs a punch of bonuses which add more to headset’s impressive array of features.
Pros
- Packs a punch of features
- Facilitates easy battery swapping
- Cross-platform compatibility
Cons
- Commands a high-end price
6. Steelseries Arctis 7 — The Best Value Wireless
From aesthetics to sound quality, build and battery life, the Arctis 7s can match up with just about any high-end model in numerous aspects. It also makes for an optimal balance of comfort, aesthetics, and sound quality.
The design boasts great comfort and convenience, with a control panel located near the rear end, including controls for volume, mic mute, chat/game mix, and the power button.
To further enhance comfort, it comes with a special ski goggle headband that effectively deflects the weight of your headset away from your head. But after a long period of daily use, the headband might no longer hold firmly in place. You can easily fix that by replacing it.
Another feature that allows you to enjoy the Artics 7 conveniently for hours on end is the battery life, which lasts up to 20 hours with a full charge. And you can even charge it while using it.
Pros
- A comfy headband
- Excellent sound production
- 20-hour battery life
Cons
- The mic is of average quality
- The headband might loosen and come in need of replacement over time
7. LucidSound LS35X — The Best for Xbox
While there are some high-end models with better sound production, there’s hardly anyone with a better value-to-price ratio. The LS35X combines top-notch features to give you the best gaming sound experience you can have. It provides an audio output fine-tuned for gaming with a build stuffed with coolant gel and overlaid with surplus memory foam and high-grade fabrics.
The audio production amplifies specific audio cues to make you more alert to them. Plus, the model integrates Window Sonic and Dolby Atmos through your Xbox One or PC to whip up excellent surround sound.
Its impressive range of connectivity options, including its low-cost Xbox wireless USB dongle, make it compatible with a wide range of PCs and other devices.
And with a recent upgrade, the LS35X now delivers excellent sound quality over an impressive range, free from interference from other wireless devices. Another feature which contributes to its high value-to-price ratio is its excellent voice-monitoring microphone, which marks it apart from most models.
Pros
- High-grade build with premium materials
- Top-notch sound production
- Excellent wireless signal over a long-range
- A massive 15-hour battery life
- A unique collection of connectivity options
Cons
- No provisions for charging through a dock
- The 3.5mm connectivity is deficient for mix amps
8. Turtle Beach Stealth 600 — Best For PS4
This chic, white-splashed headset is another offering with great value from Turtle Beach. It comes in two versions for PS4 and Xbox, although the Xbox version lacks vocal cues to change audio presets. Overall, it falters in some aspects, especially the build, but provides an impressive range of top-notch features such as mic monitoring, and dongle-free wireless.
Its cheap plastic feel is tactfully concealed by a striking white finish sprinkled with blue around the earcups. Most gamers will most likely overlook the frail feel of the plastic build because of the soft foam cushion and intuitive design.
There are scroll wheels for volume and mic control placed in positions that make them easy to use without having to remove the headset. There’s also a foldable microphone neatly tucked away in the earcup. You can power the mic as well as the headset with buttons at the same spot. You’ll also find the mode button there, which allows you to switch between four modes: Bass Boost, Signature Sound, Bass, and Treble Boost, and Vocal Boost.
Audio prompts are another significant aspect of the Stealth 600’s intuitive design. You get prompts when you connect or disconnect it, when you turn on or off the mic, and when the battery is low. The battery life comes in at an impressive 15 hours.
Pros
- Outstanding aesthetics with a white splash
- Intuitive design with easy-to-reach control buttons and scrollwheels
- Excellent customization options for the audio profile
- An amazing 15-hour battery life
Cons
- A plastic build that feels cheap
- Might not provide a snug fit initially
- Lacks surround sound
9. Razer Thresher — Best for Comfort
With this model, Razer cuts back sound profile customization options that are common among its models and instead provides nearly unbeatable comfort. While you might not get a surfeit of equalization options, you’ll come to appreciate the single sound profile more thanks to the flexibility and comfort the model provides.
The headband is flexible, and the earcups hug your ears firmly and warmly. You’ll also appreciate the replaceable earcups, especially if the headphone will be accessible to friends and family who’ll leave it all sweat-soaked. Against the backdrop of these profoundly comforting features, the Razer Thresher makes for a glorious sound experience, especially in games with surround sound.
You can enjoy the blissful sound experience for at least 16-hours with a full charge. But since it’s charged via standard micro USB, you might not be able to use it while charging. The USB hub also houses the surround sound control, and you might find this a little inconvenient if you need to turn it on or off after settling down.
You can also have a well-balanced chat volume with the game audio rumbling on. The model sports an extendable microphone with the chat volume control button placed intuitively in the left earcup.
Pros
- Offers extraordinary comfort
- Excellent surround support
- An impressive 16-hour battery life
- Top-draw audio production
Cons
- Lacks 3.5mm audio jacks
10. Corsair Void Pro RGB — The Best Design
If you fancy an eye-catching headset with all the bells and whistles, then you’ll likely not find a better value proposition than that of the Void Pro RGB. The model uses cheap plastic ingeniously in its lightweight build that goes super-easy on the head while also projecting striking aesthetics.
The frail plastic build is actually integrated with metal pillars and comfy paddings which make for a premium feel. The padded earcups are also integrated with a customizable backlight with several colors to choose from. You can get the product in a wide variety of colors to blend with your gaming hardware’s color palettes.
The model also comes with a mic that’s brilliantly tucked away in the left-hand can. Raising or lowering the mic turns it on or off, with an accompanying audio prompt. The left-hand can also house the mic mute button, the power button for the headset, volume control button, and the micro USB charging port.
When it comes to audio production, the Void Pro RGB does not disappoint. It comes with a preset EQ setting that makes for a well-balanced gaming sound production, but you won’t get the same sound quality with movies.
Pros
- Splendid aesthetics with a slew of body and RGB light colors to choose from
- Auto shut down feature that preserved battery life when not in use
- Support for 7.1 virtual surround sound
Cons
- The mic might struggle with power issues, especially when the volume is turned down
Wireless Gaming Headset Buyers Guide
Should You Go Wireless?
Is it better to just stick with traditional wired headsets, perhaps until the dust settles and wireless models prove their superiority beyond doubt? To answer that, here’s a brief comparison of wireless vs. wired based on their current capabilities.
Sound Quality
This is an area where traditional wired models have been way ahead, but many wireless models are fast catching up. Some wireless models ditch Bluetooth — which normally doesn’t allow for quick sound transfer — in favor of fast technology.
But no matter how fast wireless models might seem to be closing in on wired, high-end audiophiles will most probably continue for a long time in a league of their own.
Overall, wireless models may not be as ideal for music and movies as their wired counterparts, but they do a good job to deliver the goods during gameplay.
Cost
So why is wireless costlier if wired delivers better sound? Well, for starters, wireless come with additional features like the battery and circuitry for the wireless technology, and that adds to the cost of production.
While good low-end wired models go for less than $100, decent low-end wireless models come in at $100 -$150.
Freedom of Movement
If you don’t want to limit the extent to which you express emotions during intense gameplay, then go for wireless. Compared to wired, wireless places no restriction on your movement so long as you’re within range, so you can twist and turn and even go to the bathroom without a hitch.
Powering and Charging
Wireless models run on batteries that can run out — something you don’t have to worry about with wired models. Charging the batteries might turn out a nagging issue. With wired models, you simply plug it as you go. Whereas with wireless, you need to check ahead of time that you’ve charged the battery in readiness for the next game time — otherwise you might have to go wired to charge it while using it.
What to Consider When Buying
Once you’ve decided to go for wired, the first thing you need to have in mind is the devices you’ll be using the headset on. However, any headset with a 3.5mm audio jack is compatible with PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and smart devices. Many models come with both Bluetooth and USB cables that allow you to use them with a wide range of devices.
Most top models are compatible with multiple platforms. These models often also provide gamers with a greater span of control over features. Some go an extra mile to integrate third-party software such as Logitech Gaming software or Razer Synapse to give you more control over settings.
If you’re hooking your wireless to Xbox One or Windows 10, you can leverage on the virtual surround capabilities of functionalities like Dolby Atmos and Windows Sonic for Headphones.
FAQs
1. Can I hook up my wireless gaming headset to my smartphone?
If your headset comes with Bluetooth support, then you can hook it up with any Bluetooth-enabled device, including your smartphone.
2. My headphone is not responding. What should I do?
First, try rebooting or resetting your headset. If this doesn’t resolve it, then call customer support or take it to the nearest designated service center.
3. My microphone isn’t responding. What do I do?
First, ensure you’ve properly followed the instructions for setting up the mic for the particular device you’re using. Next, turn up the volume and balance your Game/Voice settings if it applies. If the issue still doesn’t yield, then reach out to customer support or the nearest designated service center.
4. Is there any lag in sound reproduction in wireless headphones?
The current generation of wireless headphones has significantly eradicated lag issues. Although Bluetooth doesn’t transmit the information as fast as cable, you’ll hardly notice any difference. As such, wireless gaming sets are almost as free from lag issues as wired ones.
Conclusion
With wireless gaming headsets, you can gain all the benefits of wired gaming sets without the disadvantages, for a slightly higher amount. Wireless headphones will liberate your gaming experience from the movement restrictions that wired ones impose, and at the same time enable world-class sound stage.
The best wireless gaming headphones have ushered in a future of immersive gaming, where emotions run higher, and gamers are freer to express their emotions.
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