The best Nintendo Switch headsets have to tick a few more boxes than their console or PC counterparts. After all, this is likely going to be a headset that goes on the road with you far more often, and the handheld's USB-C headset port blocks out a lot of our USB-A options. Not only that, but battery life plays a much larger role in this world, as does portability, design, and the ability to wire in.
If course, all the best gaming headsets should be versatile, the Switch options have to wear this flexibility on their sleeve. The best Nintendo Switch headset right now does all this with aplomb, and all for under $100 / £100. It's the Razer Barracuda X, with both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connection options, excellent audio, long-lasting comfort, and a simple plug-and-play soundstage.
However, there's no shortage of devices looking for a way into your setup. From high-end luxury devices to budget value-busters, we've had hundreds of headsets on our noggins over the years. In that time, we've been intensively testing each one, running it across Nintendo Switch games past and present while also living with each device. You'll find all our top picks available just below.
The Quick List
Best overall
A wireless connection, sub-$100 / £100 price, and excellent audio means the Razer Barracuda X is our go-to Switch headset - now with Bluetooth!
Best budget
If you're happy to go wired, you can't go wrong with the Arctis Nova 1. This is a particularly well priced headset offering excellent sound and comfort.
Best luxury
It's overkill for everyday players, but if you want the best audio and features possible the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is leading the pack right now.
Best for game chat
The HS70s have a trick up their sleeve - you can wire into your device while also connecting to your phone for Bluetooth. That makes in-game chat via the app far easier.
Best earbuds
Between active noise cancellation, two connectivity options, and excellent audio, the Razer Hammerhead Hyperspeeds are the best in-ear options.
I've been rocking a headset with Nintendo Switch since that 2017 launch year, and have been reviewing these cups on 12DOVE for four years. In that time I've developed a keen ear for the details alongside an appreciation for portability, reliability, and durability in every headset I test. My time as a Deals Editor at TechRadar means that, above all else, I'm looking for value for money.
Recent updates
October 16 - We have added individual ratings scores across five categories (comfort, audio, battery, microphone, versatility, and build quality) to every entry in this list, for better comparisons between products. This information is reflected in the 'how we test' section further down the page.
What we're looking for
Why you can trust 12DOVE Our experts review games, movies and tech over countless hours, so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about our reviews policy.
Full criteria ↓
The best Nintendo Switch headset overall
The 2022 Razer Barracuda X takes over from the previous 2021 model at the top of our list. Its low price point (for a wireless gaming headset of this quality), long battery life, powerful audio, and lasting comfort make it the best Nintendo Switch headset for the majority of players.
✅ You play in handheld mode on the go: The ease of this USB-C connection (and Bluetooth if you're in a pinch) and subtle design means this is a go-to travel buddy.
✅ Portability is a big factor for your commute: Of course, that Bluetooth functionality, comfort, subtle aesthetic, and long battery life also makes the Barracuda X a perfect commuting solution.
✅ EQ settings don't interest you: The Barracuda X is designed to be simple so there aren't a ton of EQ settings to pore through to get great audio straight out the box.
❌ Software support is important: The Barracuda Xs aren't compatible with Razer's Synapse software so you won't have the same level of control over EQ as you would a more expensive device. However, you're still getting some customizations in the Razer app.
❌ You want to fall back on a wired connection: The wired connection isn't powered, so we noticed a significant drop in quality when bringing a cable in to play.
Design: At just 250g, these are some of the lightest cups on the market right now - beating the Logitech G733 which is often touted as one of the most comfortable options. That means you'll be able to dive into particularly long play sessions, Switch battery allowing, without feeling the strain. That's because there's a nicely padded headband and plump cushioning on either side, which makes for a nice temperature without crushing your ears. That subtle aesthetic also means you'll get away with using the Barracuda Xs as more than a Nintendo Switch headset. I regularly use them in place of a set of commuting headphones and they've held up particularly well over the years.
Features: Sure, there's no Synapse support for more PC focused players, but the 2022 model's Bluetooth functionality means the Razer Audio app is now in play. That means you can quickly customize EQ settings and personalize the experience in a number of ways. On top of that the new release also offers playback controls on the headset itself. The addition of Bluetooth means the Barracuda X is now even more Switch-friendly as well. I can't tell you the number of times I've pulled out my handheld on a train only to realize the 2.4GHz receiver is still plugged into my PS5 at home. With a quick and easy wireless substitute, the Barracuda X is on the next level.
Audio: The audio even straight out of the box is impressive - with robust, well rounded soundtracks, effects, and dialogue the quality of which is rare to find at a sub-$100 / £100 price point. That sound signature is identical to the previous year's model, but we were celebrating that one back in the day as well. I love the crunchy growls of Doom's soundtrack and gun noises, but the Barracuda X can also handle the twinkling melodies and intricacies of Super Mario Galaxy just as well.
Verdict: The Razer Barracuda X storms in with an excellent $99.99 price point, without sacrificing any features a Nintendo Switch player would be looking for. I particularly enjoyed that the subtle aesthetic, tap media controls, and new Bluetooth functionality (the previous model was 2.4GHz only) mean the Barracuda X will fit into any commuter's journey but it's the overall value for money that really shines through here.
Read more: Razer Barracuda X (2022) review
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Audio | ★★★★☆ |
| Battery | ★★★☆☆ |
| Microphone | ★★★☆☆ |
| Versatility | ★★★★★ |
| Build quality | ★★★★☆ |
The best budget Nintendo Switch headset
SteelSeries has been making some serious moves recently, with the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless topping the charts (and the price range) with its audio prowess. The much much cheaper SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 still offers that same premium pedigree, but in an affordable $59.99 / £59.99 form factor that will serve Nintendo Switch players particularly well.
✅ You want a simple plug and play headset: Say what you want about the old days, those easy 3.5mm connections drop a ton of pain points over newer wireless options. Just plug it in and you're good to go.
✅ You want easy compatibility across other platforms: If you're buying for more than a Nintendo Switch you won't have to worry about the Arctis Nova 1's compatibility - you can use this with anything with a headphone jack.
✅ A wireless connection isn't a priority: If you don't care about maintaining a cable-free setup, there's no point in investing extra cash in a wireless connection.
❌ A wireless connection is a must: If you want to play in docked mode without a wire tethering you to the TV you're going to want to check out a wireless model.
❌ You want rich audio in the lower ranges: The Arctis Nova 1s do struggle in the lower ranges, which is to be expected at this price point.
Design: The design is a far cry from the luxuries of more expensive models, but you've still got a comfortable form factor overall. That lighter weight is playing a large role here, ensuring the Nova 1s remain ergonomic during longer play sessions and aren't a burden to take with you on the go. An elasticated inner headband keeps the plastic main band off the noggin well, and some memory foam in the cups themselves goes a long way as well.
I did notice that the fabric material did get warm after a while, though. While not necessarily common in mesh cups, these are a little denser in their design which seems to trap heat a little easier than other materials. It's not as toasty as a leatherette but is still noticeable particularly during warmer weather. This is a wired headset with a smaller footprint, so there's no need to worry about bulking out your backpack with a worryingly expensive piece of kit. However, you're still getting 2022 level quality - and it's surprising how far that Arctis line will take you even in these cheaper seats.
Features: The Arctis Nova 1s are unsurprisingly lean in features. This is a simple plug and play wired Nintendo Switch headset after all. However, that 3.5mm connection means you're getting excellent compatibility with just about anything (sorry iPhone) making this a particularly versatile piece of kit. On top of that, you're getting all the onboard volume and mic mute controls as well.
Audio: I was surprised to find that the audio coming from the Nova 1s was actually comparable to that of models further up the line. With the Nova Pro is obviously far out in front, there was a solid similarity between the sound profile here and in the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7. That just goes to show how far audio technology has developed in recent months - for $60 / £60 you're getting quality that would have been well into the three figures just a few years ago. As it stands, I was impressed with the well balanced sound on offer, with rich dialogue and a wide open soundstage of a plethora of genres. While the lower end is a little more artificial (there are some sacrifices to be made for the cash) this is a particularly well tuned set of cups for the price.
Verdict: Overall, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 represents excellent value for money in this cheaper price range. An easy plug and play system that won't break the bank (or your backpack), this is the best Nintendo Switch headset for those looking to spend less than $60 / £60.
Read more: SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 review
| Comfort | ★★★☆☆ |
| Audio | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Battery | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Microphone | ★★★☆☆ |
| Versatility | ★★★☆☆ |
| Build quality | ★★★☆☆ |
The best luxury Nintendo Switch headset
If you've got a very, very healthy amount of cash to drop on a Nintendo Switch headset you’ll definitely be interested in Steelseries’ latest flagship Arctis model. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is currently rated as the best headset on the market overall right now, which means you're getting some serious luxury here.
✅ You have a multiplatform setup: That dual-connection hub is a godsend for anyone who pairs their Nintendo Switch with a PS5 and PC.
✅ You don't want to worry about battery: With hot-swappable batteries (and the space to charge one from the main hub), you won't have to worry about juice anymore. Simply swap them over when you run out of charge.
✅ You play open world games: The Arctis Nova Pros absolutely sing in a detail-heavy open world environment. Larger scenes are this headset's bread and butter.
❌ You don't play across multiple platforms: If you just play Nintendo Switch, you're not going to get the best value out of this investment.
❌ You don't want to tinker with EQ settings: There's a little work going into getting the best sound from these cups, so if you don't want to dive into the graphs we'd recommend looking elsewhere.
Design: First and foremost, it’s a step up in comfort and looks. Gone is the old ski goggle headband design, replaced by a new internal headband suspended from press studs on the headband inner. The earcups themselves feature a similar shape, but now have recesses and emphasize a circular motif in the middle, finished in a magnetised and swappable plate featuring Steelseries branding. The real showstopper here is the earcup cushioning, though - softer pleather or memory foam you’ve never touched. The result of that is an even comfier fit than previous Arctis models provided, and it was already their strength. This holds up over time as well - I've used the Nova Pro Wireless for years now, and it still feels as good as it did on that first day.
Features: Where do we start? The Nova Pro Wireless is packed with extra features including hot-swappable batteries, a dedicated DAC system (with platform switching), and super easy EQ adjustments. Of course, you're going to get the most out of those additional features if you also play across PC and PS5 (and ideally within the same setup), however if you're looking to splash out you might as well do it with the best. Those extra features do, however, mean that the Nova Pro Wireless isn't the best Nintendo Switch headset for everyone. You're spending a lot of cash on these add-ons so if you won't make the most of them, it's not worth the additional investment.
Audio: Sound quality is the biggie here though, and the Nova Pro Wireless offers up some of the clearest and most well defined soundscapes we've tested yet. Not only is this a supremely powerful audio, but the Nova Pro Wireless has even upped the ante when it comes to performance in the lower ranges. This is where the predecessor, the Arctis 7P, struggled, but everything is well and truly beefed up here.
Verdict: The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is a sizeable investment, but if you're after a true luxury headset and you split your time between Nintendo Switch and other systems it's well worthwhile. No, this isn't going to be the best purchase for everyday Switch players, but the audio quality, unique extra features, and all-round comfort make it the best for premium value.
Read more: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro review
| Comfort | ★★★★★ |
| Audio | ★★★★★ |
| Battery | ★★★★★ |
| Microphone | ★★★★★ |
| Versatility | ★★★★★ |
| Build quality | ★★★★★ |
The best Nintendo Switch headset for in-game chat
The Corsair HS70 Bluetooth headset is perfect for those after a Nintendo Switch headset with a mic for voice chat. If you're looking to stream both in-game audio and Nintendo Switch Online chat features through the app at the same time, there's no other set of cups like it.
✅ You regularly play online with chat: If you're a Nintendo Switch app regular, this is going to be a lifesaver. You can finally string your game and chat audio through the same set of cups.
✅ You're happy with a wired connection: That wired connection might not be best if you're playing from a dock that's farther away, but if you're happy plugging into your console or a controller this is excellent value.
✅ You want a solid audio quality: On top of those Bluetooth features, the HS70 Bluetooths also offer excellent audio quality to boot.
❌ You want a fully wireless connection: If the cable is a deal-breaker there are other wireless options out there for a similar price.
❌ You primarily play on a different console: This device has been tailor made for the Nintendo Switch, so while that wired connection will work with other devices you'll find more platform-specific features elsewhere.
Design: This is far from a flashy design, the matte black finish runs throughout the entire headset without a single glimmer of RGB. That's perfect for those after a more subtle aesthetic, and especially welcome considering so many cheaper headsets opt for brighter colors and cheap LEDs. You're getting a soft, though leatherette, padding to each cup for a nice level of comfort, and I particularly appreciated the larger cup design, which envelopes the ear rather than pushing against the side of the head.
The HS70 Bluetooth is a little weighty in the hands, however once it's on your noggin the over-sized ear cups and premium padding along the top of the headband will keep that pressure off the skull.
Features: With a dual-connection between 3.5mm and Bluetooth, you can finally easily stream both audio channels through the same headset, and take advantage of a decent mic at the same time. That's an excellent Nintendo Switch feature that certainly fixes one of the biggest pet peeves many initially had with the system, but this cheaper price point doesn't skimp on the audio quality either.
Audio: There's a well-rounded sound up for grabs here, with rich performance across all ranges and nicely balanced bass. All of that means everything from thrashing action to quieter open-world moments sounds great here and performs at a much higher level than you'd expect from the price alone.
Verdict: Overall, you're getting a good set of headphones here for the cash. it's worth noting that you'll only be able to get a wired connection for Xbox and PlayStation - though PC players can still connect through Bluetooth. That makes this a decidedly Nintendo Switch focused affair, where the Corsair HS70 Bluetooth really has the chance to shine.
Read more: Corsair HS70 Bluetooth review
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Audio | ★★★★☆ |
| Battery | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Microphone | ★★★★☆ |
| Versatility | ★★★★☆ |
| Build quality | ★★★★☆ |
The best gaming earbuds for Nintendo Switch
The Razer Hammerhead Hyperspeeds are the latest earbuds to leave the brand's factory and with active noise cancellation, rich audio quality, and a long-lasting battery life they're the best gaming earbuds not just for Nintendo Switch but overall as well.
✅ Low latencies are a high priority: The Hammerheads are supremely quick across both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth wireless connections.
✅ You value high quality game audio: If you're investing more in audio quality, you'll be particularly pleased here. There's plenty of power behind these buds and some solid ANC to keep everything else out as well.
✅ You commute regularly: That noise cancellation comes in particularly handy if you're commuting regularly - as well as the pretty solid battery life.
❌ You want to rely on tap gestures: The tap controls on these Hammerheads aren't great, and they're too unreliable to fully slot into your everyday listening.
❌ You're not concerned about aesthetics: Razer has covered the case with a premium feel and added some extra RGB flair to the buds themselves. However, you're paying for both of these with either your wallet or battery life, so if you're not fussed about looks there are better options out there.
Design: It certainly helps that the Hammerheads come in a particularly luxurious build quality. Contrary to the only slightly cheaper Turtle Beach Scout Airs, everything from the case to the individual buds feels durable, and even premium. Our only concern comes from the fact that there's no internal housing for the 2.4GHz dongle - you'll be transporting this plugged into the USB-C charging dock of the case itself, which doesn't feel too secure.
Features: That choice in connectivity is going to be a big factor for any Nintendo Switch players out there. You can easily slot the USB-C dongle into your handheld for play on the go, or keep things at Bluetooth level for docked gaming as well. I noticed a speedy connection no matter the method, and easy setup across the Switch system.
That's also handy for the commuters among us, you can quickly double up your earbuds for everyday music when those thumbs get tired. That said, I did notice a few tricky moments with the tap gesture controls - they're not all too reliable, to the point where I gave up trying shortly into my testing.
Audio: Nevertheless, stick these things in your ears and you're going to be surprised by the depth and richness of the audio on offer. Attention is paid across the full soundstage, but I was particularly impressed by the full-bodied dialogue and punchy lower ranges.
Verdict: At just $149.99 / £149.99 you're not at the top of the price scale here. In fact, considering there's plenty of EQ adjustments in the Razer Audio app, RGB built into each side of the buds, and both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz USB-C connection options you're getting excellent value for money overall.
Read more: Razer Hammerhead Hyperspeed review
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Audio | ★★★☆☆ |
| Battery | ★★★☆☆ |
| Microphone | ★★★☆☆ |
| Versatility | ★★★★☆ |
| Build quality | ★★★☆☆ |
How we test Nintendo Switch headsets
We test Nintendo Switch headsets in the same way we would any other set of cups. Each device becomes a staple of our everyday setups, integrating into our handheld play for a minimum of two weeks before final review. Beyond that, though, we use these headsets for everything from music to movies, and even across platforms, to test their total versatility within a lifestyle.
We test Nintendo Switch headsets according to their design, features, and performance. That means we're looking at everything from the physical aesthetic features and weight profile to individual EQ preset options and Bluetooth strength.
Our design critique centers around comfort, durability, and aesthetics. We're constantly assessing the weight, cushioning, and adjustment options that go towards making a Switch headset comfortable for longer sessions. We also look to the build materials, hinges, flexibility, and portability when considering overall durability of a headset. On top of all that, we take a look at the actual colors, RGB options, silhouette, and size of a headset to see whether it can easily be used in a variety of different environments.
Headsets are adding new features to their rosters all the time, so we assess the quality of a feature list based on price and market competitors - whether that be through connection options, extra customization software, or overall compatibility. Beyond this we test battery life by running a full depletion at least once.
Performance is tested across a series of games, but for Nintendo Switch headsets that list is expanded even further. We usually test across Horizon Forbidden West, Apex Legends, CS2, Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Doom Eternal, and The Last of Us Part 2 to gain a full understanding of soundstage, balancing, details, and clarity. However, Nintendo Switch headsets are also put through the same process across Super Mario Sunshine, Doom, Splatoon 3, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
At the end of this testing process, we score every Nintendo Switch headset according to comfort, audio, battery, microphone, versatility, and build quality. You can find out more about how we test gaming headsets in our full 12DOVE Hardware Policy.
Also Tested
We run through loads of gaming headsets here at 12DOVE, and few of them make the cut for Nintendo Switch players. You'll find our most recently reviewed devices just below.
How to choose a Nintendo Switch headset
There's a lot to choose from when picking out the best Nintendo Switch headset for you. From picking out your budget to finding the right form factor for your play style, here's how to find the best set of cups for you.
Wired vs Wireless
A wired headset will be a lot cheaper but can be limiting, especially if you're looking to play with your console in docked mode. However, you won't have to worry about running out of battery so much when you're out and about. If you play in handheld mode the most, it's a lot easier to pick up a wired headset that will suit you.
Budget
A major consideration is how much you want to spend. Thankfully, Nintendo Switch headsets rarely cost the earth, like some PC options tend to. You can get away with spending less than $40 / £40 on your new set of cups, with plenty of budget options all offering some excellent value for money at this more affordable price point. This is the price of an entry-level model, with passable audio and a cheaper build.
However, between $50 and $150 (£50 and £150) you'll notice the quality of your audio (in particular the handling of the bass and finer mid-range details) increasing, more premium and comfortable materials, and more wireless options on the market.
Above this price range, you'll start picking up more sophisticated positional audio features, enhanced mic qualities, longer battery life in wireless headsets, and lighter weights as well.
Over ear vs in ear
We're seeing more and more earbuds hitting the market, vying for a position as one of the best Nintendo Switch headsets. These are usually cheaper, and can be more comfortable if you don't want a headband and often warmer ear cups getting in your way. Plus, these are far easier to throw into a case when you're out and about. However, you won't get quite the same quality here.
Top Nintendo Switch headset brands
Going it alone and wondering where to start? There are a number of brands producing gaming headsets suitable for Nintendo Switch right now, across a whole range of price brackets. You'll find all the brand we recommend checking out just below.
Nintendo Switch headsets: FAQ
What is the best headset for Nintendo Switch?
The best Nintendo Switch headset we've tested is the Razer Barracuda X. It balances a low price point with excellent audio quality without overloading you with features the system won't be able the use. You can spring for something a bit more premium (we'd recommend the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro if you're going all the way to the top), but for casual everyday play the Barracuda X is all you're going to need and slightly more.
Should you buy a Nintendo Switch headset with a mic?
Nintendo Switch headsets with mics are generally designed to be used across a range of console platforms. That's because it's very difficult to make good use of a microphone on your headphones when playing on Switch. Nintendo requires its players to route their voice chat through their smartphones, using a particular app. Only the Corsair HS70 Bluetooth headset fixes this issue, by allowing you to run game audio from your console and voice chat audio from your phone at the same time. Having these two audio sources coming from different devices usually makes the Nintendo Switch headset with mic redundant.
However, Nintendo is starting to improve its native support for voice chat. Fortnite and Warframe are currently the only titles that allow you to use voice chat directly from your console. That means Nintendo Switch headsets with mics attached are becoming a lot more useful. If you plan on diving into either of these titles, we'd recommend making sure there's a microphone attached to your cups.
Can any headphones work with Nintendo Switch?
If you don't want to splash out on a whole new Nintendo Switch gaming headset, the good news is you can use pretty much anything with a 3.5mm or Bluetooth connection on your console. You might not get the most game-friendly audio (directional cues might be muddier and sounds might be slower reaching your ear), but it's certainly a budget-friendly workaround for anyone who doesn't want to buy a new device.
We're also rounding up all the best PS5 headsets as well as the best Xbox Series X headsets. Or, if you're out of the console game, check out the best PC headsets on the market right now.
