Gaming headsets

Gaming headsets in our range are mostly over-ear headsets with a microphone for PC and console play, plus a small number of in-ear models. Wired, wireless and dual-mode versions come from brands such as Razer, Turtle Beach, Logitech, Corsair and JBL. They suit anyone who wants to hear footsteps clearly and talk to teammates.

How to choose a gaming headset

Connection type. Wired headsets need no charging and add no noticeable delay, and wired models are the largest group in our range. Wireless models remove the cable but need regular charging, and a 2.4 GHz USB dongle usually gives lower delay than Bluetooth. Some models offer both modes. For wired headsets, cable lengths in our range run from 1.2 m to 2.2 m, so choose a longer cable if you sit far from a console or PC tower.

Platform compatibility. Check what plugs into your device. A 3.5 mm jack works with most controllers, phones and laptops, USB is common on PC and PlayStation, and wireless dongles are often limited to specific platforms. Xbox consoles in particular can be fussy about which headsets they accept, so confirm support before buying.

Comfort and ear cups. Most headsets in our range have a headband and circumaural cups, which sit around the ear and suit long sessions. Supra-aural cups rest on the ear and are lighter but can become tiring. In-ear models are the lightest option. If you wear glasses, look for soft, shallow padding and a light frame.

Microphone. A boom microphone is the most common type in our range and usually picks up your voice more clearly than a built-in one. Detachable booms and flip-to-mute arms are useful extras. In-line and built-in microphones suit casual chat better than team play.

Sound and drivers. Drivers of 4 cm and 5 cm are the most common sizes here. A larger driver does not guarantee better sound, as tuning matters just as much. A frequency range of 20 to 20000 Hz is typical and matches the range of human hearing, so very wide figures on the box are not a strong reason to buy.

Gaming headset brands we carry

• Razer: known for the Kraken and BlackShark lines, which are aimed at esports and competitive play.
• Turtle Beach: a long-standing console specialist, with many headsets built for PlayStation and Xbox.
• Logitech: sells headsets under its Logitech G gaming brand, and is also known for webcams and PC peripherals.
• Corsair: makes the HS and Virtuoso headsets, often matched to its keyboards and mice.
• JBL: brings its audio background to gaming through the Quantum series.
• SteelSeries: best known for the Arctis series, which has become a common reference for comfortable all-day headsets.
• HyperX: known for the Cloud series, which helped make memory-foam padding a gaming headset standard.
• ASUS: offers headsets in its ROG (Republic of Gamers) line, designed to pair with ROG laptops and components.
• Trust: sells headsets in its GXT gaming range, covering everyday PC and console use.

Also in our range: White Shark, Havit and Subsonic.

Gaming headset FAQ

Is a wired or wireless gaming headset better?

Wired is better if you want zero charging and the simplest setup, while wireless is better if you value freedom of movement. A wired headset never runs out of battery. A wireless headset with a USB dongle is usually responsive enough for most games, but you need to keep it charged.

Can I use a gaming headset on both PC and console?

Yes, if it has a connection your devices accept. A headset with a 3.5 mm jack works on most PCs, controllers and phones. USB and wireless headsets depend on the platform, so check the listed compatibility for PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo before buying.

Do I need surround sound in a gaming headset?

No, surround sound is optional. Most virtual surround is created by software, and its usefulness varies from game to game. A well-tuned stereo headset often gives clear directional sound, so comfort and microphone quality are usually more important.

What driver size should a gaming headset have?

A 4 cm or 5 cm driver is a sensible starting point, as these are the most common sizes in our range. Size alone does not decide sound quality, because tuning, ear cup design and seal also matter. Reading reviews of the specific model is more useful than comparing driver sizes alone.