Own The Competition on Your New Xbox Series X with a Compatible Xbox Headset
An elite xBox headset gives you an advantage over your competition unlike any other gaming accessory. Sure, a controller is ultimately what allows you to control the game, but a good gaming headset lets you hear where your opponents are hiding, which eliminates the element of surprise. If your flavor of choice is first-person shooters and/or battle royale games, that can give you a serious advantage. And strictly from an entertainment standpoint, gaming headsets immerse you in the game more than any other accessory can.
Now that the next-generation Xbox Series X has officially been released, gamers all over the world are upgrading their peripherals to match. In this piece, we’ll share our ranking of the best Xbox headsets as well as some advice on choosing audio equipment that’s compatible with your new console.
How To Choose The Best Gaming Headset for Xbox X Series Consoles
Not to be outdone by the PS5, Xbox just released its next-generation console, which also features incredible 3D spatial sound technology. This takes 7.1 to a new level. Instead of being able to hear sound all around you, you will also be able to hear sounds coming from above and below you. It’s really an all-immersive 3D soundscape.
Xbox uses its own wireless technology, dubbed Xbox Wireless, to connect peripherals like controllers and wireless headsets. So, if you’re looking for a wireless gaming headset, make sure it can connect to Xbox Wireless. Standard Bluetooth won’t cut it, unfortunately. For instance, you won’t be able to use your Samsung Galaxy Earbuds to game. Of course, for the most reliable connection, headsets with 3.5mm connectors and USB will do the trick.
The new Xbox is finally here, and it’s time to start dominating the competition like you did on your Xbox One. Make the most of your new console with the best Xbox gaming headsets.
Below are our recommendations for the best Xbox headsets.
1. SteelSeries Arctis 9x
BEST OVERALL
Widely known as one of the best Xbox One headsets available, it’s also compatible and equally as impressive paired with the Xbox Series X. (We named the SteelSeries Arctis 9 the best Playstation 5 headset, too.) The 3D surround sound not only immerses you in the gameplay but also gives you a strong advantage over your opponents. And you can pawn those pathetic noobs all night long in comfort thanks to the ergonomic headband and lightweight design. The noise-cancelling mic ensures your voice comes through to your teammates nice and clear, and it even retracts when you don’t need it. With both Bluetooth connectivity and a 3.5mm connection, you can take this beyond the Xbox Series X and use it with other devices as well.
Editor’s note: like a lot of the best Xbox gaming headsets, the SteelSeries Arctic 9x is in short supply at most major retailers.
Buy: SteelSeries Arctis 9x $199.99
2. Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2
AMAZON’S CHOICE
There’s a lot to like in the Stealth 700 Gen 2. For starters, the 20 hours of battery life is just as long as the Arctis 9, but you can save some coin going with the 700 Gen 2. Also, the Audio Hub allows you to dial in your sound preferences. The Aerofit cooling gel memory foam cushions keep your head and ears comfortable during long gaming sessions. And while you’re gaming, the microphone automatically mutes when you flip it up into the headset. Not only does it make the headset look clean, but you can cuss your brains out, and nobody will hear it, on the rare occasion when a noob gets the best of you.
Buy: Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 $149.95
3. Razer Kaira Pro Wireless Gaming Headset
GREAT EQ
Unlike other Xbox headsets that were originally released for the Xbox One, this Kaira Pro were specifically designed with the Xbox Series X in mind. With easy pairing and EQ setting adjustment, you can specifically enhance in-game audio such as enemies footsteps, or turn up low frequencies to hear bombs going off in the distance. Another awesome feature is the second microphone in built-in the headset. Even if the cardioid mic is detached, you can still talk your talk while gaming, or answer calls while paired to your phone. No wonder it’s flown off the shelves since its release.
4. Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Wireless Gaming Headset
ALSO CONSIDER
While the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 headset is the company’s top offering when it comes to the best Xbox headsets, you can pick up the Stealth 600 for a little less without giving up much in the way of audio quality. While the build quality isn’t quite as luxurious and you don’t get Bluetooth connectivity with these cans, they still offer everything you need for a top gaming experience on the Xbox Series X.
Buy: Turtle Beach Stealth 600 $99.95
5. Corsair HS35
BUDGET PICK
Considering this set of cans is only $40, there’s actually quite a lot to be impressed by here. With a wired connection, it is compatible with multiple consoles. The microphone is detachable so you can use this headset as your everyday headphones. And the ear cups have comfortable, plush memory phone to keep your ears from getting sore. Not a bad way to spend two Jacksons.
6. LucidSound LS35X
EASY CONTROLS
Like the best Xbox Series X headsets, not only does LucidSound LS35X connect effortlessly to your new Xbox via Bluetooth, but changing the volume is as easy as turning the volume wheel on the earcup. Same goes for game mute and mic muting — all you need to do is press the center button. The microphone is detachable if you just want to enjoy the powerful and immersive surround sound, but if you want to talk a little smack, the crystal-clear chat technology ensures you’ll be heard loud and clear. It connects wirelessly to Xbox consoles but can be wired into other gaming consoles as well.
7. Turtle Beach Stealth 300
AFFORDABLE WIRED OPTION
Connecting via 3.5mm wired connection, you won’t have to worry about compatibility issues. The memory foam ear cushions and headband are both breathable and comfortable. They are even designed to take pressure off your ears if you wear glasses. Although the microphone doesn’t detach or retract, you can move it out of the way when you don’t need it. It’s a no-frills sort of headset, but an affordable way to comfortably game on your new system.
Buy: Turtle Beach Stealth 300 $179.33
8. SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless Gaming Headset
WIRELESS FOR MULTIPLE CONSOLES
It wouldn’t be on this list if it couldn’t connect to the latest Xbox, and it does so wirelessly, too. However, the creative USB dongle design also lets you plug into a Switch, Android phone or PC and wirelessly connect to those devices as well. Whatever system you’re gaming on, you can do it for a long time without charging with 20 hours of battery life. It’s a nifty design that enables you to game across platforms with ease. With the audio and microphone quality you expect from SteelSeries, the Arctis 1 is one of the best wireless gaming headsets for Xbox and more.
Buy: SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless Gaming Headset $199.99
9. Turtle Beach Elite Pro 2
COMFORT PICK
Gamers who throw down for hours on end will appreciate the memory foam Aerofit ear cushions that are infused with cooling gel to keep your ears comfortable and cool. Even if you wear glasses, the ProSpecs glasses relief system keeps your ears and head from getting pinched. Beyond incredible comfort, the Tru-Speak microphone ensures you’re heard loud and clear whether that’s leading your team to victory, or talking a little trash to the competition. Turtle Beach makes some of the best Xbox headsets in the world, and the Elite Pro 2 is yet another excellent option for your new Series X console.
Buy: Turtle Beach Elite Pro 2 $129.95
10. Astro Gaming A50
BEST SPLURGE
This is one awesome headset if you have the cash to bring it home. The 7.1 surround sound gives you the advantage of hearing exactly what direction your opponents are coming from. Beyond incredible sound, the headset is ultra-lightweight and comfortable, so you can game into the wee hours of the night and stay comfortable. When you’re done, just set it down on the wireless base station to charge. Treat yo’self!
11. Razer Nari Ultimate Wireless Gaming Headset
BEST HEADSET WITH HAPTIC FEEDBACK
The Razer Nari is a little older than the Razer Kaira, but this wireless Xbox headset offers something unique that its counterpart doesn’t: haptic feedback. As you play through a game, these headphones will vibrate in response to the action on screen, offering yet another dimension of immersion that will get you into the game. The biggest knock on these cans are the fact that the mic isn’t the best, so those who are serious about multiplayer gaming may want to consider another option. But for everyone else, this is a headset that will change the way you experience a game in ways that no other option on this list can.
12. Astro A20 Wireless Gaming Headset
GREAT FOR 3D AUDIO
The Astro A20 seems like a pretty straightforward set of cans, at least at first. When it comes to the best Xbox headsets that are wireless, there are tons of options, but the Astro A20’s feature set is nothing to scoff at. Equipped with 40mm drivers, a flip-to-mute boom mic, and support for both Dolby Atmos and Windows Sonic spatial audio, these headphones offer up everything you need to take advantage of the Xbox Series X’s next-gen audio. While these may not come equipped with Bluetooth, the fact that you can get your hands on this headset for half as much as the Astro A50 will cushion the blow.
13. Turtle Beach Recon 70
ALSO CONSIDER
Like the Corsair HS35, this is another affordable wired option that can connect to multiple consoles. The microphone flips up, but it doesn’t detach like our other budget pick. You do get your pick of multiple colors, so you can find a headset that fits your style. Whether you choose this or the Corsair HS35, you’re getting a solid set of cans at a good price.
Buy: Turtle Beach Recon 70 $29.95