The best wireless gaming headsets can provide industry leading audio without a cable getting in the way. Not only are these headsets faster than ever but they're also much cheaper these days as well. You would traditionally need to shell out around 30% more for a cordless set of headphones, but with tech getting cheaper, final costs are starting to dip as well.
We've had our hands on a massive range of wireless gaming headsets in the last few years, and we've brought all our favorites right here. Right now, though, the best wireless headset is the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless. Pairing top-of-the-range audio with hot-swappable batteries, a multi-connection hub, and a comfortable form factor these cups tick all the right boxes. It's the best gaming headset on the market, but if you don't want to invest in a high-end price tag there are plenty of other options as well.
We live with these headsets, which means we've put each through its paces over a range of genres and platforms to make sure it's up to standard. Not only that, but we're also spanning the full price scale here - so that you know you're getting the best value for money no matter the budget. Not only do these cups need to offer excellent wireless performance, compatibility, and battery life but they also need to sound great, feel comfortable, and look the part as well.
The Quick List
Best overall
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is our favorite gaming headset on the market, but its unique features also make it the best wireless option.
Best for most
With its comfortable price tag, excellent audio, and even better microphone, the Razer BlackShark V2 HyperSpeed is the best option for most players.
Best budget
Turtle Beach's cheapest wireless headset is the best for those after 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connections for under $80 / £80 right now - plus it improves battery life over older models.
Best multiplatform
With its baked in HDMI switcher and flawless compatibility with both PS5 and Xbox Series X, the Astro A50 X is the best multiplatform wireless gaming headset. Its Bluetooth stumbles are frustrating but it's perfect for a full setup.
Best for consoles
The Arctis Nova 5x has the same drivers as the 7x but also features a range of console-specific EQ features that are perfect for consoles.
Best battery
There's a massive 300 hour battery hidden in these still comfortable earcups. That's astounding considering you're still getting excellent audio quality and a lightweight build.
I've had my head between a set of cups for over four years here at 12DOVE, reviewing first in a freelance capacity while concentrating on my role as a Deals Editor at our sister site TechRadar and then full-time. With a keen ear for the details and a particularly close eye for value, I've tested all the latest headsets from a range of brands.
Recent updates
October 16 - Following review, the Turtle Beach Stealth 500 has now replaced the SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless in the position of 'best budget wireless headset'. This is due to the comparable price points and improved specs of the Stealth 500 - it features double the battery life, adds a Bluetooth connection, and is compatible with newer Swarm software. We have also expanded the explanation of our testing methodology further down this page, adding more specific insight into our process for evaluating and ranking wireless headsets.
The best wireless gaming headset overall
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is a go-to for anyone looking to invest in a high end audio system packed with additional extras. It's not just the best wireless gaming headset I've tested, but it's the best set of cups I've ever had on the test bench.
✅ You want to invest: This is a sizeable chunk of change, but if you're investing in a long term solution for a multiplatform setup it's a well placed bet.
✅ You have a split PC and console setup: The dual connection hub (and audio quality across a range of devices) means those who play across a couple of platforms are going to get the most out of this investment.
✅ You don't want to worry about battery: The genius dual-battery solution means you won't have to worry about juicing up before you play - with one charge on the dock you've always got a spare 22 hours.
❌ You don't play across multiple platforms: If you're not going to use that DAC hub as intended, there's no point in spending more on it.
❌ You don't want to tinker with EQ settings: We did need to fiddle with the EQ settings straight out the box, so if you're after pristine sound right away a more streamlined device will come in handy.
Design: The latest SteelSeries Arctis Nova line retains a core aesthetic throughout its models, but everything is dialled up to 11 in the Pro. The luxury build materials, super comfortable ski-google headband and subtle gray color means the Nova Pro Wireless could easily pass as a luxury set of headphones, without even considering the raw gaming power inside. I can easily blitz through hours of gameplay with these on my head, without even feeling an ear pinch. There's plenty of extra features hidden in that slick design, though - which makes its streamlined effect all the more impressive.
Features: The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless astounds with its feature list. First up we've got one of the most helpful battery solutions I've come across so far, hot-swappable battery packs. One slots neatly into the hub (more on that next), while the other sits inside the headset - that means you'll never run out of charge, simply swap them over when you're running low. I'm constantly forgetting to plug in, so always having a full charge ready to go has been a game changer over the years. That main hub is another beast all together. Offering handy multiplatform connections and a direct platform for EQ tweaks. Throw in active noise cancellation and plenty of controls on the headset itself and you've got a serious powerhouse.
Audio: The Nova Pro Wireless wouldn't be at the top of this list if its audio wasn't sublime. The latest iteration has taken the natural clarity of SteelSeries' drivers and boosted everything with an extra edge of finesse and detailing. Not only is this a supremely spacious soundstage, with excellent attention to detail across all ranges, but we also noticed a boost in the lower regions which has been missing from previous Arctis iterations.
Verdict: If you have the budget, then this is the easiest recommendation for a wireless gaming headset I can make. It's simply the best wireless gaming headset I've ever tested. The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless delivers on its promise and goes as far as I've witnessed any premium set in justifying the lofty price tag.
Read more: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless review
| Comfort | ★★★★★ |
| Audio | ★★★★★ |
| Battery | ★★★★★ |
| Microphone | ★★★★★ |
| Versatility | ★★★★★ |
| Build quality | ★★★★★ |
The best wireless gaming headset for most players
If you're after a wireless headset that punches above its price tag but is still easily plug-and-playable with a range of platforms, the Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed is your guy. Its wireless connection is limited to PC, PlayStation, mobile and Nintendo Switch, but a USB-A wired option is there for Xbox players should they need it, and you're getting some particularly premium parts in here for a great price.
✅ Audio quality is a priority: Razer has prioritized audio quality over extra fancy features and build materials here - so if you're doing the same it's a perfect match.
✅ You regularly play with chat: The Hyperspeed actually shares the same mic as the BlackShark V2 Pro further down this page - and that device is the best microphone we've tested so far.
✅ You play across PC and PlayStation: The wireless connection does favor PC and PlayStation consoles, so you're getting the best bang for your buck if that suits your setup. However, USB cable can still hook you up to an Xbox.
❌ You need a particularly durable design: The build materials used here aren't quite up to the same luxury standard as more expensive headsets. If your cups need to be able to take a beating we'd recommend moving further up the price range.
❌ You want to take your headset on the go: That non-detachable microphone and lower build quality means this isn't one for regular travel.
Design: At first glance, the BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed could be its much more expensive sibling, the more expensive BlackShark V2 Pro model. This is a matte black headset with the line's staple pilot-style silhouette, chunky headband, and oval shaped cups. However, closer inspection did reveal some small tears in my review unit, and some looser stitching.
That, combined with the cheaper plastic used here, is indicative of a sacrifice in build quality in order to achieve such a low price tag. You're still getting a strong design for your cash, with cool and comfortable leatherette cushioning, plenty of padding, and a suitable clamp force, but if you need a long-lasting device you might need to go further up the price scale.
Features: That lower rate build makes way for some excellent value in the features department. A 70 hour battery puts the BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed well ahead of similarly priced competitors, Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connections keep you connected to pretty much anything, and an extended volume dial on the side makes quick in-game adjustments particularly easy. Then there's that super wideband microphone - the best I've tested so far. This is a crystal clear, almost podcast-worthy mic that delighted in our testing, both across recording and in-game chat.
Audio: The BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed packs the microphone of the far more expensive Pro model, but it also offers the same TriForce Titanium drivers. This is a luxury piece of kit, offering incredible clarity and richness to pretty much anything you can throw at it. Everything is well-balanced across each range, with particular attention being paid to mids and lows. That's an area that can often become muddled with cheaper wireless headsets, but there's excellent detailing down here with space for more atmospheric environmental sounds and loud, accurate directional cues as well.
Verdict: It's difficult to match the Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed's internal quality at this price point. While the headset does sit back a little when it comes to overall build, those willing to take care of their cups will be delighted with this little bargain - especially if you spend a lot of time in more competitive settings.
Read more: Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed review
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Audio | ★★★★★ |
| Battery | ★★★★☆ |
| Microphone | ★★★★★ |
| Versatility | ★★★★☆ |
| Build quality | ★★★☆☆ |
The best budget wireless gaming headset
If you've got a hard $80 / £80 budget but you still want a wireless gaming headset, the Turtle Beach Stealth 500 is the best value on the market right now. It's a little weedier than other options closer to $100, but considering the price point it's still a fantastic contender.
✅ You can't go near $100 / £100 - The Turtle Beach Stealth 600 is a better headset overall, and only comes in at $20 more. At this point, that's more of a mid-range budget than entry level, though.
✅ You prioritize comfort - The Stealth 500 actually offers a more comfortable experience than the more expensive 600 Gen 3 model, with a floating headband design that alleviates pressure.
✅ You regularly play on handhelds - The Bluetooth connection is adding a little to the price compared to older releases, but is a fantastic addition for those who regularly play on a handheld PC or Nintendo Switch.
❌ The Stealth 600 is on sale - The jump between the Stealth 500 and 600 Gen 3 is a big one, and there's only $20 difference between the two. If the bigger model is on sale, I'd recommend opting away from this budget option.
❌ You travel regularly with your headset - If your headset needs to be able to withstand a more hectic journey, I'd recommend leaving the Stealth 500 at home. There were enough durability concerns in my testing to suggest that this one might not fare well with rough and tumble.
Design: The Turtle Beach Stealth 500 actually beats the slightly more expensive Stealth 600 Gen 3 Wireless in the comfort arena. With a floating headband design not too dissimilar to those seen in SteelSeries headsets, the 500 sits beautifully on the crown, without any unnecessary pressure. While the actual cushioning of each cup is a little less plump than the 600s, the lack of that harder headband more than makes up for it.
It's worth noting that this isn't going to be a a headset that fares particularly well when thrown in a backpack. The build quality of my test unit was a little concerning, with fabric stretched too tight over the cushioning of one cup, resulting in creases and strained stitching. The cheaper plastic frame does let you know this is a budget device, but it also keeps the weight down as well.
Features: I previously held the now four-year-old SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless as the best budget option, but it's been aged out by the Stealth 500. Where SteelSeries' previous generation cups offered 20 hours of battery life for $99 MSRP, the Stealth 500 packs up to 40 hours for $20 less. While the Arctis 1 relied on a 2.4GHz connection only, the Stealth 500 adds Bluetooth into the mix as well as a quick switcher button to instantly swap devices. This is one of the first budget wireless headsets I've tested that includes these traditionally more premium features - and they mean mobile and handheld use are now far easier in the entry level category.
There's an abundance of controls on the headset itself, though they did feel a little clustered when I first started using it. Plus, Swarm software is there to provide EQ and microphone adjustments as well as a full mobile app as well.
Audio: There's a bouncy quality to the Turtle Beach Stealth 500's sound quality that I wouldn't have expected to hear from a headset this cheap just a few years ago. There's also no hint of over-pumping the bass, which historically results in distorted audio among the lower price ranges as well. There's a good amount of power in these basslines, which can sometimes cluster up the mid-section, but overall audio quality is crisp, clear, and detailed for the price.
Verdict: The Turtle Beach Stealth 500 is the cheapest wireless headset I've tested that has actually impressed me in a while. For just a little extra cash, the Stealth 600 does improve on sound and build quality, but if you've got a harder budget it's likely these cups will be far cheaper on sale.
Read more: Turtle Beach Stealth 500 review
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Audio | ★★★☆☆ |
| Battery | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Microphone | ★★★☆☆ |
| Versatility | ★★★★☆ |
| Build quality | ★★☆☆☆ |
The best wireless multiplatform headset
While the fact that its Bluetooth is limited to the base station itself, the Astro A50 X boasts an incredible unique feature that makes it the best wireless gaming headset for anyone splitting their time between PS5 and Xbox Series X. That's the built in HDMI swapper, allowing for full compatibility between systems and easy switching between that at just one press of a button.
✅ You play PS5 and Xbox Series X in one setup: If you're running a PlayStation and Xbox next to each other you're going to get the best value for money possible here.
✅ You don't want to play handheld on the go: Switch players and handheld gamers on the go will need Bluetooth baked into the headset itself rather than just the base station.
✅ You regularly switch between consoles: If you're hopping between inputs regularly, that easy switch button is going to prove its worth particularly quickly.
❌ You want to play on the go with handhelds: If you don't want wireless audio to be bound to your home, you'll need to look elsewhere.
❌ You need ANC: The Astro A50 X doesn't pack active noise cancellation features, though many in this upper price range do.
Design: The Astro A50 X doesn't stray too far from its predecessors in its design. The plastic device keeps the clean angular lines and large cylindrical headband struts of older releases, with a particularly sophisticated final effect. It's available in either black or white, but I do prefer the white model I tested - the geometric style of the base station and the softer curves around the bottom of each cup pick up particularly well in this colorway.
Construction feels solid in the hand, with plenty of rotation to ensure an optimal fit from each cup. I did note that the swivel on each side made placing the headset into the charging dock was particularly fiddly - especially considering the contacts need a little wiggling around to truly connect. Everything is nicely comfortable, with plush padding across the middle of the headband and lining each cup.
Features: This is the big one. The reason so many wireless gaming headsets are either designed for Xbox or PS5 is because the two consoles just don't speak the same connection language. However, Astro has skirted this issue by taking its audio from the HDMI signal instead. Around the back you'll find space for both consoles to connect via HDMI 2.1 (as well as a USB-C for your chat). Once set up, and provided your consoles are set to rest rather than being turned off, the base station can swap both video and audio between them at the press of a button - all while keeping the full 4K 120Hz signal intact.
There's a but here, one I found when trying to use the Astro A50 X for Nintendo Switch. The Bluetooth connection is tied to the base station itself, which means you won't be able to use the A50 X on the road with a handheld device. Similarly, those who use a PC in a different setup to their consoles will also be stuck transporting the entire base between setups. That quickly became frustrating during my testing, and would be enough reason for me to only recommend this headset to those with an all-in-one setup.
This is the best audio I've personally heard through a gaming headset yet
Astro A50 X review
Performance: That slick design and fancy feature set wouldn't be good for anything if these headphones didn't sound as great as they do. This is a particularly powerful sound profile, with a slight emphasis on the lower mid-range, but still nicely defined higher tones with plenty of space in the soundstage. That makes everything from music to games feel just that little bit more vibrant, especially considering the Astro A50 Xs do such a good job at separating more delicate sound effects from even the most chaotic of background gunfights.
Verdict: The Astro A50 X is heavily reliant on its base station, even needing it for Bluetooth functionality, however if you've got a setup that suits it (your PS5, Xbox Series X, and possibly PC all sharing one screen) it's going to be a game changer.
Read more: Astro A50 X review
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Audio | ★★★★★ |
| Battery | ★★★★★ |
| Microphone | ★★★☆☆ |
| Versatility | ★★★☆☆ |
| Build quality | ★★★★☆ |
The best wireless gaming headset for consoles
We previously had the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X in this position, but then the newer Nova 5 Wireless dropped. This slimmer headset packs the same audio quality as the more expensive option, but drops simultaneous connectivity in favor of a set of console-specific EQ presets that are more than worth it.
✅ You want tailored audio: It's difficult to find a wireless headset that will provide the same kind of game-tailored audio on console as it will on PC. The presets available in the Nova 5's companion app are incredible considering this is such an untapped market.
✅ Your headsets take a beating: This is a particularly durable build, with nicely flexible materials and solid construction. If your tech needs to withstand some knocking around, this is a fantastic option.
✅ Comfort is a priority: Not only is this a slimmer, lighter headset, but its design means there's no ear-clipping and the entire frame can hold up comfortably for longer sessions.
❌ You direct EQ sliders: While there is a massive selection of presets available, finer controls over each EQ slider is still reserved for PC use.
❌ You rely on comms: The microphone in here isn't as good as other options (see the Razer BlackShark range), so if you're going to playing competitively for most of the time you might want to look elsewhere.
Design: SteelSeries didn't rip up its rulebook with the latest release. This is still the same ski-band style headset you'll recognize from the rest of the range. That means you're getting smaller, more circular cups than you find on other models, but still fantastic comfort that lasts. I noted that the seal created by these particular cups was particularly strong in my testing as well, so while there's no ANC on board the form factor manages to create a solid isolation.
This thing is solid as well. No matter how much I bent and shaped the headband, or shook the cups, there was no creaking, splintering, or rattling anywhere. That's a big vote of confidence for long-term durability.
Features: The biggest reason I'm putting the Nova 5X Wireless up as the best wireless headset for consoles is the companion app. There are over 100 presets in here, covering a massive range of games, covering everything from Fallout to Fall Guys. A Bluetooth connection keeps you in-tune with your phone while a 2.4GHz receiver runs up to your Xbox, but it's worth noting there's no simultaneous connections here. Higher-end headsets will allow you to, for example, listen to music on your phone while still running game audio from another source. However, you're switching between inputs here.
Still, you're getting a good spread of onboard controls to go with those presets. A chat mix dial and Bluetooth quick switcher are both added here (the Nova 4 drops these features), alongside the everyday volume, mic mute, and power options. A solid microphone is tucked away in the cup itself, extendable whenever it's needed.
Performance: Considering you're still getting the excellent audio quality we heard in the Nova 7s, the 5X Wireless offers fantastic value for money overall. This soundstage is particularly strong in its detailing with plenty of attention paid to the lower ranges. That does mean there's less of a booming bass here, but with the mid-range remaining crystal clear everything is tuned to games here. And that's even more apparent when fiddling between different presets. While some feel a little redundant (Fall Guys doesn't particularly benefit from souped up audio), these settings are thoughtful in their approach meaning even Baldur's Gate 3 and Mario Kart 8 feel their benefit.
Verdict: The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless does make some sacrifices when put up against high-end headsets (simultaneous connections being the most notable). For the cash, though, there's no better value out there for console purists.
Read more: SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless review
| Comfort | ★★★★★ |
| Audio | ★★★★☆ |
| Battery | ★★★☆☆ |
| Microphone | ★★★★★ |
| Versatility | ★★★★☆ |
| Build quality | ★★★★★ |
The best wireless gaming headset for battery life
The HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless is an extraordinary headset and does earn a place on this best wireless gaming headset list - but it is also a frustrating set; stumbling with one feature that could have really made it a world-beater.
✅ Battery is everything: That 300 hour battery life isn't something you see every day. If you're just after fantastic audio you don't need to think about charging, this is the headset for you.
✅ You mostly play single player: That mic is particularly weak, which means we can only recommend this wireless headset to those on solo adventures.
❌ You play online with chat: This is perhaps the strongest 'don't buy it if' recommendation on this page. The HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless does have a particularly disappointing mic - if you play online with chat, we'd seriously urge you to look elsewhere.
❌ Charging isn't a hassle: Of course, that battery life costs money. If you don't mind plugging in every now and then you may find other options more appealing.
Design: The design and build are classic, quality HyperX: a simple black and red design with sturdy arching frames for each cup, and a solid and comfortable headband between the two. And the buttons are simple and restrained too - just a volume wheel on one cup, and the mic port, mic mute, power button, and charging port on the other.
Features: The battery life is the main feature here though, and the thing that all the marketing around this headset banged on about - claiming up to 300 hours of battery life, no less. And, I have to say that I have come to believe that claim wholeheartedly: after 110 hours I have had to give up counting just to move on with my life, while the chap in the earcups tells me it has gone down to only 70%. It really is remarkable and a big selling point for the set.
However, the big caveat with this headset is that I found the mic to be really quite bad. Covering all of what you don't want from a microphone - muffled audio to my friends, crackling, inconsistent volume, and indistinct clarity - at times I was having to basically put it in my mouth to be heard.
Audio: The sound quality is truly excellent. No matter what game we were playing during testing, the Cloud Alpha Wireless's audio shone and excelled. It will have your back whatever you play from the busiest of chaotic shooters to the quietest meanders through open-world landscapes, and everything in between. We were particularly impressed with the clarity of each and every detail of the audio too, from booming weapons to the tweeting of birds. The headset is even excellent for music and TV and film too which is a great plus.
Verdict: What results is a headset that is seriously perfect for you if you don't play much, if any, online games that require communication - if you do, then there might be a better set on this list for you.
Read more: HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless review
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Audio | ★★★★☆ |
| Battery | ★★★★★ |
| Microphone | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Versatility | ★★★☆☆ |
| Build quality | ★★★★☆ |
How we test wireless gaming headsets
We use each wireless gaming headset that passes our desks as if we had just purchased them ourselves. That means running through all daily work, play, streaming, and music using the device while also scrutinising build quality, comfort, and ease of use throughout.
The first thing we note when removing a headset from its box is, inevitably, design. There's more than just a subjective appreciation for aesthetic in this process, though. A headset's weight, balancing, cushioning depth and materials, and microphone placement will all contribute to the overall comfort of a device. We test this comfort long-term by running several longer gaming sessions through each wireless headset, and by spending work days plugged into music and meetings for extended periods of time. Beyond ergonomics, though, a wireless headset needs to hold up in its build quality.
We flex, bend, swivel, and bop every hinge and headband on a wireless headset, constantly listening and feeling for creaks or wobbles to ensure a build is robust. Beyond noting the actual materials and connections used, we're putting every strut and cushion through its paces through fiery rage quits and more professional drop tests.
While wireless headsets generally offer similar spec sheets when it comes to features, there are always going to be individual aspects that stand differently. We fully test each wireless headset across all its connection types; Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, and wired. That means testing across a range of platforms in each connection mode as well - paying particular attention to range, strength, reliability, and speed.
Beyond that all-important connection, we're constantly evaluating how on-board controls enhance or hamper everyday and competitive experiences while also putting the mic through stringent team tests and work calls. Battery life is one of the first features we explore, though. As soon as a wireless headset comes out of the box, we charge it fully and allow that full charge to run its course naturally over the course of at least two weeks full work and play. That can be anything from eight to 13 hours of use per day.
In order to examine audio performance, we test across a range of different genres, from the vast spaces of an open world to more close-quarters combat scenarios. Of course, sound is always subjective, so we test across the same seven games every time. These titles are spread across different platforms, and offer their own specific challenges across directional accuracy, soundstage size and precision, frequency power and clarity, and potential for distortion.
| Horizon Forbidden West (PS5) | Clarity in mid and low ranges when faced with a clustered soundstage, using open world environments with closely populated machines. |
| Apex Legends (PS5, PC) / CS:2 (PC) | Directional accuracy and imaging within the soundstage, as well as microphone clarity. Tested through bot runs to ensure parity. |
| Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales (PS5) | 3D directional audio in a busier mid-range soundstage with particular attention to detailing. Tested in the main mission 'Time to Rally', walking through the scene. |
| Doom Eternal (PS5, PC, Xbox) | Clarity and power of lower ranges, particularly during more chaotic soundstages, as well as potential for any distortion to occur at higher volume. Tested using Arena battles. |
| The Last of Us Part 2 (PS5) | Directional accuracy and soundstage atmosphere in a more enclosed environment, with particular attention paid to dialogue and tone. Tested using the main mission 'The Descent'. |
| Super Mario Sunshine (Nintendo Switch) | Testing handling of higher frequency tones and general soundstage when presented with a stereo source. |
For more information on how we test gaming headsets, check out the full 12DOVE Hardware Policy.
Also tested
We're testing new wireless gaming headsets all the time, and not all of them make it into this list. The headsets below could still fill that hole in your setup if they suit your specific needs, but their feature sets might not be as widely applicable as the models up top, or they might have fallen below expectations in other areas of testing. Below, you'll find all the wireless headsets we've tested in the last two years that haven't met the correct criteria to be featured in our best list.
How to choose the right wireless gaming 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.
Finding the right wireless gaming headset for you comes down to a series of factors; what, how, where, and when you play. Each of these factors has a different bearing on the connection, overall design, microphone, and battery life of your device. Of course we all want the best audio experience possible - but finding the right combination of these extra features can help you get the best value for money overall.
That's because some players might be able to stick with more expensive features like a 2.4 GHz wireless connection or high-end microphones in order to pick up far better sound quality for their money overall. On the other hand, some may prefer to put more cash towards a long-lasting battery life and versatile suite of connections rather than prioritizing competition-level sound, so a wireless headset just won't do. Finding the right balance of priorities can help you find the right headset at the right price.
Glossary
Whether you're buying your first wireless headset or you're simply looking to brush up on some key terms before diving into your research, you'll find all the jargon laid out just below.
- 2.4GHz: A low-latency wireless connection alternative to Bluetooth.
- ANC: Active noise cancellation removes unwanted external noise by sensing it with an external microphone and blocking it with an extra sound frequency.
- Bluetooth: A slower but more widely compatible wireless connection option compared to 2.4GHz.
- Closed-back: The most common headset design, where the driver is completely enclosed within the cup itself.
- Driver: The element of a gaming headset that converts electrical signals into sound waves.
- Dual-connection: A feature of wireless gaming headsets that means it can connect to both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth.
- Dynamic: The most common driver type featured in gaming headsets.
- EQ: Short for equalizer, EQ settings allow you to fine-tune your listening experience by manipulating the emphasis on certain ranges, usually via a separate software.
- Frequency range: The range of sound that a headset can produce, usually 20Hz - 20KHz
- Latency: The speed at which the headset receives information from the PC or console, a higher latency should be avoided if playing competitively.
- Open-back: A less common headset design in which the driver is left exposed through the chassis.
- Receiver / Transmitter: An attachment or hub that receives mic signal from your headset and transmits audio signal to your headset. Usually a small USB-C or USB-A dongle, or a larger box.
- Simultaneous connection: A wireless headset feature that allows for separate Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connections to be active at the same time.
Best wireless gaming headset: FAQ
What is the best wireless gaming headset?
The best wireless gaming headset right now is the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless. We always strive to fill our guides with headsets that will appeal to everyone, no matter your preferred platform, audio grade, or budget. That means those striving for value for money should grab the Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 2 and those scraping the bottom of the budget barrel will be happy with the SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless.
What is the best wireless gaming headset brand?
It's always hard to narrow down a whole field of quality gaming tech to a single brand. And while we do, naturally, put one brand's headset at the top of our best wireless gaming headset list - in this case, SteelSeries - each brand and make has its own attractions, appealing factors, and qualities that will help you make your choice. For example, is battery life and sound quality your main concerns? Then check out EPOS | Sennheiser's GSP 370. Is sheer gaming audio quality your absolutely top priority? Then go for Razer's BlackShark V2 Pro or the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless. On a budget? Check out the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 or 600 Gen 2 headsets.
Each one on our list will offer something slightly different - so while it might be really tempting to try to put one brand above the rest, the reality is that its just a bit more complex and nuanced than that.
Are wireless headphones OK for gaming?
Wireless headphones are indeed 'OK' for gaming - but they aren't a total replacement for gaming headsets. For most folks, the audio given by a pair of wireless headphones will likely suffice for gaming - single-player games particularly. For anyone who plays competitively, however, or who just likes to ensure they and their games are high-tuned for success, a gaming headset is going to be the way forward as there are some latency concerns with normal headphones.
The latter is particularly the case when using a Bluetooth connection - we'd recommend avoiding this and choosing, where appropriate, a 2.4GHz wireless connection if you can to ensure that you have a seamless wireless gaming audio experience.
If you'd prefer something of the earbud variety, check out our best gaming earbud list for all our favorite buds we've had hands-on experience with so far. There's also our best gaming headset list which is full to the brim with the best wireless, and wired headset to level up your gaming sessions.
