Whether you've just picked up a new console or you're looking to reinvigorate your old setup, the best PS4 headsets can still hold their own against Sony's previous generation library of games. After all, with many PS5 options also compatible with the PS4 and PS4 Pro there are more headsets on the market than ever right now.
There's just one thing you need to know. The PS4 doesn't have a USB-C connection, so many newer headsets offering 2.4GHz dongles via this port will need a little extra research. The good news is that many of these PS4 headsets also ship with an adapter for use with a standard USB-A port, but it's always worth double checking.
You'll still find plenty of cheaper devices among the best gaming headsets on the shelves, which means those looking for a stop-gap set of cups before investing in a pair of bigger guns will still find plenty of value. Not only that, but even cheaper PS4 headsets come with more features these days (wireless connections, longer battery lives, and higher quality materials).
We've compiled this list of the best PS4 headsets based on our own extensive testing and comparisons, and each model featured will be able to connect to your console straight out of the box.
The Quick List
Best overall
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is our number one best headset right now, so it's also our top pick for the previous generation console.
Best budget
If you're after something a little cheaper, the Arctis Nova 1 still offers incredibly clear and well balanced audio with a comfortable form factor.
Best for most
If you're after solid wireless performance, a few extra features, and impressive audio, the Razer Kaira gets you there for under $100 / £100. Plus, you're picking up a more Sony friendly design to boot.
Best wired
The Inzone H3 makes for a particularly sleek wired gaming headset with a solid sound quality and long-lasting comfort to boot.
Best multiplatform
If you're switching between PS4 and Xbox, PC or Nintendo Switch, the Stealth 700 Gen 2 Max is the way to go.
Best haptics
The Kaira Pro model features excellent haptic feedback for extra immersion - that's as well as great audio and extra comfort.
Gaming headsets have been glued to my head even longer than I've been reviewing them during my time as a gaming tech writer. Having a pair with great audio quality, a high-end mic, customization options, and that provide the highest echelons in comfort is of utmost importance if you spend a lot of time gaming, but it can be hard to pick the right ones, especially where older hardware like the PS4 is concerned. That's why nothing pleases me more than using my experience, and music audio background, to help put you in the right direction.
Recent updates
November 1st - The 'how we test' section of this page was updated to include a more in-depth explanation of how we test each and every individual headset, and what games we use while testing each one to ensure a thorough review. During this update I also included an author section to reflect the change in who's curating this long list of the best PS4 headsets.
The best PS4 headset overall
It's our favorite gaming headset on the market right now, and its performance holds up even on older consoles like the PS4. Very few cups have come close to the proposition set out by the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro wireless, and we expect it to reign for a while yet.
✅ You're investing long-term: The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is about as expensive as they come, but if you're looking to sink some cash into something that will offer luxury for years to come, it's a wise investment.
✅ You play both PS4 and PC: You're spending on that dual-connection hub, so it makes sense to use it. You're truly going to be getting your money's worth if you run a PS4 and PC in the same setup.
✅ You hate charging: With two swappable battery packs and a handy hub to keep one charged at all times, you won't have to worry about running out of juice ever again.
❌ You don't like fiddling with EQ: Getting that audio balance just right often comes down to EQ settings, and thankfully the Nova Pros offer this functionality right on the hub. However, if you just want to plug and play there are better options out there.
Design: The Nova Pro Wireless follows the same design language as other cheaper models in the range, but does so with a sophisticated twist in build materials and luxury. You're still getting that classic ski-goggle headband, longer oval shaped cups, multi-leveled external design, and adjustable frame, all with that extra flourish of a premium finish.
Features: Yes, we were blown away by the rich, textured audio hitting our ears during our testing, but it was the way SteelSeries wraps its best in class sound up in a whole host of additional features that really stole the show.
Many of these extras are contained within the small hub / DAC system that ships with each Nova Pro wireless headset. You'll find a range of handy features here, including the ability to seamlessly switch between different wireless inputs (think switching between your PS4 and Xbox audio at the flick of a switch). That's excellent for multi-platform users, but the star of the show is the battery. The base station also serves as a charging dock for the spare battery, which can be hot-swapped in and out of the headset itself. That means you'll never run out of charge - and that's invaluable for those playing longer sessions and the disorganized chargers among us. We were so blown away by this simple resolution, we're shocked nobody's done it before.
Audio: We've found SteelSeries' audio compelling for some time now, but the Arctis Nova Pros blow previous generations out the water. Not only is there an excellent balance across the soundstage here, but the brand has also added some extra oomph to the lower ranges - something we noted was missing in predecessors. That, plus some excellent directional cue handling, meant we were enjoying competitive shooters and solo adventures alike.
Premium in every way from design and build, to functionality and connectivity, to audio quality.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Verdict: With new generation audio the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro wireless is going to breathe new life into any PS4 setup. Between crystal clear audio, a high end microphone, and additional quality of life features, the Pro Wireless is a go-to for anyone looking to indulge themselves in some high-end PS4 audio. While that naturally high price point is going to be prohibitive for some, this is the gold standard when it comes to the best PS4 headsets.
Read more: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro wireless review
The best budget PS4 headset
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 sits at the opposite end of the budget spectrum to the Pro above. However, this line has traditionally been incredibly successful, and the latest iteration proves that Arctis headsets perform no matter their price point.
✅ You play on more than just PS4: If you're looking for a PS4 headset that can also transfer across Nintendo Switch and Xbox, the wired Nova 1 keeps things simple enough to just require a 3.5mm port.
✅ Comfort is important: The lightweight form factor (remember there's no wireless tech or battery to consider here) means the Nova 1 remains super comfortable even over longer play sessions.
✅ You're on a tighter budget: SteelSeries consistently make great value headsets in the lower end of the price range, maintaining as much of their pedigree audio quality as possible. That means anyone working with a smaller budget will get plenty for their cash.
❌ You need a wireless connection: SteelSeries and Razer both produce budget-friendly wireless PS4 headsets that only come in slightly more expensive than the Nova 1 - or the same price during sales events.
Design: The Nova 1 has a completely different design to the Pro, offering a scaled back plastic chassis with an elasticated inner headband to keep things flexible. That's not going to offer the same plush comfort, but we found it still offered comfort over longer sessions - primarily because of the ultra lightweight design. Weighing in at 236g, these smaller cups sat perfect on our heads. The only drawback we noticed was temperature. Despite the fabric (and therefore usually more breathable) material on the cups themselves, we did find these cups heating up a little quicker than others we've had our hands on.
Features: Of course, this being a cheaper headset, you're not getting the same feature list as you would something a little more sophisticated. This is a wired headset with no 2.4GHz or Bluetooth connectivity - but that also means you won't be weighed down by such tech (or a battery for that matter). The detachable cable can instantly hook you up to pretty much anything (sorry iPhone users) as well. Elsewhere you'll still find a decent ClearCast Gen 2 microphone and an everyday set of controls on the side as well.
Audio: When it comes to audio, it's easy to see just how far we've come. We were surprised that the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 offers such a similar soundstage to its far more expensive cousins. Audio quality is a real driver in this value proposition, with the Nova 1s packing an immense power into these smaller 40mm drivers. Clear, well-balanced audio allows for directional precision in faster games, and there's a depth to the human voice in dialogue which was impressive as well.
The key takeaway for anyone looking to make a thrifty headset purchase is that these offer the balanced sound you need.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 review
Of course, this isn't a $300 headset, so you're not getting some of the finer points of high-end audio. That means the low-end is a little artificial when directly comparing against more expensive options. However, you really are getting fantastic audio for your cash here, all wrapped up in a portable and comfortable form factor.
Verdict: Yes, you're dropping the vast majority of the features the $350 cups above will offer, but for $60 / £60 the Arctis Nova 1 still represents fantastic value for money. This is the best PS4 headset for anyone looking for a cheaper alternative to the big guns.
Read more: SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 review
The best PS4 headset for most players
The Razer Kaira Pro is our top pick for PS5, but if you're after something a little cheaper for your previous generation system the Razer Kaira will be perfect. In fact, this is one of the few times we'd recommend opting for the wireless cups over the cheaper (but wired) Razer Kaira X model.
✅ You prioritize a wireless connection: The cheaper Kaira X model offers pretty much the same package but without a wireless connection. This is for those after a cord-free experience and who want to take advantage of Bluetooth dual connectivity.
✅ You don't want to pay for extra bells and whistles: The Kairas offer an excellent audio experience all-round - above that which we usually find in this price point. That means you're spending less on extra features but more on what goes on between the cups.
✅ You prefer the PS5 design: This is an excellent headset for PS4, but it does help that it's sporting those new generation colors. If you're a fan of the black, white, and blue these are a real treat.
❌ You don't have an adapter: Without a USB-C port you won't be able to use the Kaira's 2.4GHz connection on a PS4. There exist plenty of cheap adapters which will see you through using the existing USB-A on your console, but it is a small added expense.
❌ You can get by with a wired headset: If you're just as happy with a cabled connection, you might as well pick up the cheaper Kaira X model. You're getting everything else under the hood just minus that extra wireless tech.
Design: The middle-child Kaira keeps the aesthetic and plastic chassis of the Pro and X models, with the classic PS5-inspired color scheme looking great in any setup. A pair of blue Razer logos adorn each cup with a light blue fabric covering the drivers underneath. You are dropping the leatherette used in the Pro option, instead opting for an arguably more breathable (and more comfortable) flowknit surface. Considering we found a higher clamp force than usual in this headband, that's a welcome relief, though it does mean the cups feel less padded than other options - causing some comfort issues around the three hour mark in our testing.
Features: While you might not want to pay the full whack for haptic feedback, the majority of players on the hunt for a solid PS4 headset will want to go wireless. It's a small feature in the grand scheme of things, but in this instance it really does offer far greater ease of use. If, however, that cable-free connection isn't a make or break for you - there's very little separating the middle child Kaira from the X device.
There is an extra wireless feature to tempt you back to the Kaira, though - SmartSwitch swapping between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz allowing for dual-pairing between PS4 and your phone. That 2.4GHz connection does run off a USB-C dongle, though, so you'll need to grab yourself an adapter for PS4.
Audio: The Kairas offer a solid audio quality that offers a better experience than many others at this $100 / £100 price point. Clustered soundstages like that of Tiny Tina's Wonderlands were handled well, with individual details shining bright above background noise. They do emphasize the basslines a little, with booming sounds sometimes threatening this more delicate balancing, but this was never overblown.
The Razer Kaira is a solid set of cups born to appeal to everyday players who want to invest a little in some higher-quality audio
Razer Kaira review
Verdict: At $99.99 / £99.99, the Kaira has been developed to hit a sweet spot for the majority of players looking to spend some cash on high-end audio, without breaking the bank on fancy extra features. You're getting high-end audio in a comfortable form factor, swappable Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connections, and an official PlayStation design.
That's excellent for anyone after a one and done PS4 headset that goes beyond the capabilities of devices purpose built in the previous generation's heyday.
Read more: Razer Kaira for PlayStation review
The best wired PS4 headset
The Sony INZONE H3 is a wired PS4 headset that offers a sleek look and solid audio at a reasonable price. Released back in 2022, you're getting everything you need for a fairly up-to-date experience, without splashing the cash on a wireless connection you might not need.
✅ You prefer a subtle design: The longer cup shape and lack of any garish 'gamer' aesthetic features means this is a PS4 headset designed with a more premium headphone feel.
✅ You like the option of a wired connection: The Inzone H3 can connect via 3.5mm to your controller or via a USB-A dongle to your console. That gives you plenty of options, especially considering the cable is plenty long for wired console play as well.
✅ You have a tighter budget: Wired PS4 headsets are generally cheaper than their wireless counterparts, which means the Inzone H3 doesn't break past $100 - and is even less in the UK.
❌ You like a lot of bass: We noticed the H3s can't handle basslines at higher volumes as well as their pricier counterparts, so if you're after a thumping lower range we'd recommend moving further up the price scale.
❌ You regularly play on comms: The attached microphone is nice and sensitive, representing voices clearly - however we did notice it picked up a lot of background noise in our testing which can muddy the experience.
Design: The Sony INZONE H3's wired connection and synthetic ear-cup material are why it's priced at $99/£89 compared to the other two models that are wireless and offer leather material on the earcups. Nevertheless, it still carries that subtle, almost headphone-styled form factor that makes it such a good option for use on the go as well as in the home. The headset is lightweight and looks particularly great with a PS5 or other official peripherals, so PlayStation fans may want to keep this one on deck. The wired AUX cable can't be removed but it is fairly long (especially if you use the included USB dongle, which will push the length of the cable to about six feet).
Features: The INZONE H3 has a great app for PC users that will let you create custom settings with the equalizer to really hone in your audio for different listening experiences (gaming, music, or otherwise). You can also use this app to turn on 360 Spatial Audio, which will make your gaming experience even better. The mic is sensitive and teammates report it picks up voice chat well, although there is some background noise.
Audio: The Inzone H3 sounds great, with nice highs and lows and crisp, clear sound. There's plenty of volume between these cups, and cranking that up to max never distorted the audio either - something that can easily catch out even the best PS4 headsets in this price range. Spatial audio also manages to keep its cool as well, with directional cues working great across Apex Legends and Overwatch in our testing.
The spatial audio sounds great during my Apex Legends and Overwatch matches
Sony Inzone H3 review
We did notice, however, that the bass feels a little more robust in the Inzone H9 model, with more sound blockage to boot.
Verdict: This is a rock-solid, good-looking, good-sounding wired PS4 headset for under $100/£100, which makes it a solid option for many gamers.
Read more: Sony INZONE H3 review
The best multiplatform PS4 headset
The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX is a staple in 12DOVE setups, thanks to its multiplatform versatility. Whereas the majority of cross-platform headsets generally tend to favor one system in reality (through wireless connectivity, sound quality, and specific features), the latest in the Stealth 700 line manages to pack a serious punch no matter what it's hooked up to. It's not the newest model on the market, and the Astro A50 X has since replaced it as our favorite multi-platform headset overall, but considering it's more than enough for a PS4 and costs considerably less these days, it's our previous generation go-to.
✅ You're not limited to PS4: Whether you switch between PS4 and Xbox, PC, or Nintendo Switch, the Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX can handle it. With no audio quality concerns across any platforms, this is a rare winner.
✅ You play for longer sessions at a time: These larger cups are perfect for those looking for a headset that can remain comfortable over the course of a longer session.
✅ You don't want to fiddle with EQ: The Stealth 700 GEN 2 MAX doesn't offer EQ adjustments easily, which means anyone who isn't after this tech is buying into features and performance more geared towards their needs.
❌ You're happy buying an adapter: If you don't mind picking up a USB-C to USB-A converter for your PS4, the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro is a newer version that packs a slightly more expensive punch.
❌ You want control over your EQ: As mentioned above, this isn't an EQ adjustable headset, so if you prefer to get your audio levels just right you'll need to check out another model.
Design: The Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX sounds great, yes, but where it shines on top is its comfort. With roomier cups, but still plenty of noise isolation, we were surprised at just how many hours we could keep this thing on for. Luxurious materials and padding kept things comfortable for even the longest of sessions, and we never felt an excess clamp force either.
Features: The Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX boosts the spec sheet in a couple of ways compared to its predecessor. You're getting double the battery life here (we managed to net around 40 hours on a single charge in our testing), as well as that extra padding across the headband. There's a solid suite of controls spread across the right cup, offering mic balancing as well. The only drawback comes in the exclusion of EQ settings, which will put more PC-focused players on the back foot. However, out of the box sound was impressive enough to allow us to forgive this shortcoming.
Audio: With rich, balanced audio and plenty of power behind each driver, this is a looker to begin with. However, we found that same quality transferred across PS4 and Xbox just as well. That means you won't have to sacrifice when switching between systems in a multi-console setup. Not only that, but the performance of the Dolby surround sound was just as pinpoint accurate on each device as well.
I was particularly impressed with how layered and balanced the sound felt in both single-player and multiplayer games
Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 Max
Verdict: Yes, the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro is the best multiplatform gaming headset overall, but its receiver hub relies on a USB-C connection which doesn't play too nicely with PS4. You can pick up a cheap adapter if you did want to spend a little more on the Pros but, straight out the box, The Stealth 700 Gen 2 Max packs an excellent punch.
Read more: Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX review
The best PS4 headset for haptics
The Razer Kaira Pro may have released to celebrate the PS5, but it's a fantastic PS4 option as well. You're making the most of Razer's haptic technology and both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connections, though you will need a USB-C to USB-A converter to run this one on the older console.
✅ Immersion is a priority: It sounds obvious if you're looking for a haptic headset, but the extra immersion on offer here is unparalleled.
✅ You prefer playing solo: There are some issues to iron out with those haptic effects when online chat comes into play, but if you mostly play solo adventures you're going to get the best value out of this headset.
✅ You like the PS5 design: You can still enjoy that crisp colorway even if you're not on board with the new generation console yet. The slick PlayStation aesthetic comes out great in this Razer iteration.
❌ You regularly play with chat: You won't be able to comfortably use these haptic features in an online game with chat, which means those who stay away from single player experiences won't be getting their money's worth.
❌ You want to spend less: There are older PS4 headsets with slightly weaker haptic feedback that are available for less than this $199 / £199 MSRP.
Design: The headset shares a lot with the Kaira range generally that we saw rolled out for Xbox prior to the PlayStation range, and, as a result, looks similar, while maintaining a white and black colourway to match the newer console. Each side of the headband slides in and out and each cup rotates to offer the perfect fit as well. Unfortunately, this is where our only qualm with the Kaira Pro's design comes in. It's a minor note, but these cups will swing whenever you pick up the headset - they're a little too loose to hold their position by themselves. While that has no bearing on the worn experience it can get old.
Features: One of the biggest selling points, however, is the inclusion of Razer's newest haptic feedback tech. The inclusion of this makes this Razer headset is a surefire enhancement for those looking for a bit more immersion from their PS4 headset. The haptics only requires the existence of audio frequency to work which is impressive and allows for haptics to be enjoyed thoroughly on PS4 still. The one drawback of the haptics is that your teammates and friends speaking to you will also set them off which is a little annoying - perhaps the next generation of haptics will be able to tell between in-game audio to enhance and chat audio to ignore.
The mic could be a bit better with my friends saying I was a bit tinny and thin sounding, but the Kaira Pros do benefit from the top line of Razer's tech elsewhere. You'll find new 50mm TriForce Titanium drivers behind each cup, Razer Chroma logo accents on each side, and plenty of controls spanning each side as well. Of course, you're also getting that dual Bluetooth connectivity as well.
Audio: Haptics aside, we also enjoyed the Kaira Pro's excellent audio quality that really does a brilliant job from the deepest of booms to the highest-pitch notes. Everything is crisp and clear here, from environmental noises of wider open worlds like Assassin's Creed Valhalla to the engines of an F1 car. There's excellent handling across busier soundscapes even in an online setting as well, as we found in our Outriders testing.
The rumble of gunfire is particularly immersive, and when you turn the haptics up to their full power, it really is something else to behold.
Razer Kaira Pro review
Verdict: The Razer Kaira Pro sits at the top of Razer's PlayStation line, and while it's got some Kraken-shaped competition it's the best PS4 headset for haptics overall. Not does that feedback offer up an incredibly immersive experience overall, but it's backed by excellent audio and a comfortable ergonomic fit to boot.
Read more: Razer Kaira Pro for PlayStation review
How we test PS4 headsets
While the PS5 has stolen the limelight, we still test every PS4 headset that hits the shelves to ensure we're recommending the best devices on the market. During our testing time, we also ensure we keep every previously tested headset in our roaster after we've published our final reviews. This way we can continue to accurately compare previously tested headsets with new releases so that our guidance is as up-to-date as possible.
When it comes to testing the best PS4 gaming headsets the first thing that catches our eye is design. Design at its core is subjective, but there are commonalities across all headsets, like shape, build, and aesthetic, that can be measured and compared with each other. We also examine the weight, balance, and signs of any wear and tear that could be a cause for concern. During our time with the headsets, we particularly focus in on any damage that could appear around the binges, where the cushion covers join and the headband as they can often be the source of common failure points. After checking the structure quality, we also go through comfort tests as there's no point in having a high-powered PS4 headset if it's horrific to wear. We run through comfort tests during long sessions and check out all the various adjustment options with both the cups and the headband. During these comfort tests, we also take note of the temperatures inside the cups, how much padding is on each side, the adjustability of the headband, and the amount of swivel of the cups. Lastly, we also take into consideration the weight of the headset overall, especially in conjunction with the size of the cups.
Now that we know how a PS4 headset is put together we're looking at the features it brings to the table. Elements like wireless connection types, battery life, compatibility, EQ options, onboard storage, control schemes, microphones, and noise isolation are taken in comparison to similarly priced headsets already available. On top of these tick boxes, though, we also fully explore all additional features that may be unique to a headset or less widely found in the market, and if these are also compatible with the PS5.
During each testing process, each device is run through a series of audio tests across a range of different genres on the PlayStation 4 and PC. Apex Legends and CS2 are used to test directional accuracy and the strength of soundstage imaging. Meanwhile, Doom Eternal and Horizon Forbidden West are used to test the depth and richness of a soundstage while also balancing more complex layers. We also use these headsets as our daily drivers wherever they're compatible, across other platforms, and in everyday work settings. Once a PS4 headset has been through the full roster of tests, it is scored based on comfort, audio, battery, microphone, versatility, and build quality. This is a five-point rating that determines a headset's fit for this guide. For more information on how we test gaming headsets, check out the full 12DOVE Hardware Policy.
Also Tested
We run through new gaming headsets all the time, but you'll find our most recent reviews of PS4-compatible devices that didn't quite make the cut just below.
How to choose the right PS4 headset
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.
The PS4 has been around for ten years now, so it's reasonable that the shelves are flooded with gaming headsets compatible (with an adapter or not). That means it's important to know what you want out of your headset to ensure you're buying the right one - and it's easy to slim the market down once you identify a few key features you need.
Audio quality generally scales with price, but you can pick up a better sounding headset if you sacrifice a few other features you won't need. That's why it's important to get your hit-list right.
Best PS4 headsets: FAQ
What is the best PS4 headset?
The best PS4 headset right now is the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless. However, there's a lot of extra features in that lofty price tag that might not appeal to everyone. If you're after a solid everyday performer that won't break the bank, we'd recommend looking at the Razer Kaira for PlayStation.
Can you use a PS4 headset with PS5?
If you've made the jump to the new generation, you can be safe in the knowledge that your existing PS4 headset will, in all likelihood, work with your new console. If you bought your headset before the PS5's release, though, you might not be getting the best quality 3D or surround sound.
Do any headsets work with PS4?
The majority of gaming headsets on the market will work with PS4, though there are some outliers. If you're using a wireless PS4 headset with a USB-C 2.4GHz receiver, it's worth double checking you're also receiving an adapter for the console's standard USB-A ports in the box. Neither the PS4 nor PS4 Pro carry a USB-C port on board, but you'll be able to use these headsets with the older console with the help of this adapter.
It's also worth avoiding wired headsets that use a USB-C connection rather than 3.5mm - you'll be tethered to your actual console rather than the controller in this scenario, and via an adapter on top.
If you want to upgrade your visual experience as well, then check out our guides to the best PS4 monitors and best gaming TVs. And if you're on the hunt for a different kind of headset, then head over to our best headphones guide.
