Microsoft players need to take special notice of the best Xbox Series X headsets. Unlike their PlayStation counterparts, the wireless limitations of the Xbox console means you'll need to pick up a tailor made device for the best cable-free audio on Microsoft's console. Even if you're after a wired Xbox Series X headset, though, you'll want to make sure you're making the most of the console's Dolby audio all while ensuring quality comfort, build materials, and additional features.
All of that means that the best Xbox Series X headsets can reach around $350 / £350 - but the vast majority of players simply don't need the luxurious features on offer in these high-end devices. Instead, you're looking for strong audio quality (and you'll find that recent releases can far outperform even last year's models at lower prices), a solid microphone that keeps your voice clear, long-lasting comfort, and a battery life that can take a beating. The best gaming headset will offer all this at a price that suits you.
We've put the latest releases through weeks of testing, living and playing with each device for an extended period of time, to find the models worthy of your cash. After all that, the best Xbox Series X headset is the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless in our opinion - but this pricey beast won't satisfy everyone. The high-powered pair of cans is so good it has earned a top spot in our other best gaming headset guides, also down to its amazing sound, fantastic battery life, and top-tier comfort. However, if its price is off-putting, you'll also find all our top recommendations across the price range just below, with the best value products for every budget.
The quick list
Best overall
The wireless version of the Nova Pro is the best option for solo Xbox players looking to connect cordlessly. It's a little pricier though.
Best budget
If you're just after a budget set of cups to see you through, the Corsair HS35 packs everything you need without breaking the bank.
Best value
The Arctis Nova 5X Wireless doesn't just pack excellent audio, but it offers a whole host of pre-made game presets for console use.
Best surround sound
Yes many Xbox Series X headsets do offer surround sound, but if you're after realistic 3D audio this is going to change the game.
Best multiplatform
The Astro A50 X is the best multiplatform option for Xbox Series X. It comes with that unique HDMI switcher functionality but you're also getting Dolby Atmos as well.
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. That's why nothing pleases me more than using my experience, and music audio background, to help put you in the right direction when it comes to the best headset for your Xbox Series X.
Recent updates
November 1st - I expanded our 'how we test' methodology of this page further to include a more detailed insight into our reviewing process, which was expanded before when it came to our rating system. The introduction of this page was also updated to include more details about what we consider to be the best Xbox Series X headset, and the author page was updated to reflect the change in curation for this list going forward.
The best Xbox Series X headset overall
The Xbox version of the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro is our absolute favorite for the system overall, but if you want to cut the cord the wireless model should really be at the top of your shopping list. It's a little pricier, but with a hub DAC system and hot-swappable batteries like this, it's well worth the jump.
✅ You swap between PC and Xbox: If you've got both your PC and Xbox in the same setup you're going to get even better value from that easy dual-connection hub.
✅ You don't want to plug in: Forget wiring another cable into your setup, the hot-swappable batteries in the cup mean you won't need to plug in at all.
✅ You play open world games: The wider sound stage and excellent detailing on offer here lend themselves particularly well to open world gameplay.
❌ You only play on Xbox: We'd recommend looking into the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X if you only play on Xbox - you're dropping some of the cooler features, but not spending on extra dual-connection options you won't use.
❌ You don't want to tinker with EQ settings: We did need to fiddle with the settings to get the right sound from these cups - it was well worth the job, but if you don't want to tweak the graph it might be worth looking elsewhere.
Design: The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless sits inline with the rest of the range, but does so with more premium materials. This is the same show as the wired model above, with a sturdier plastic shell compared to cheaper Arctis Nova options and a more durable feel overall. You're still getting that classic ski-style headband floating just below the main bridge, as well as plenty of adjustment and super comfortable pads on each side as well. This wireless model is heavier than the wired option further up the page, adding around 40g to the final product.
Features: Not only do you get additional wireless-specific features here, but you're also picking up active noise cancellation to boot. It's the extras built into the wireless experience that we're particularly excited about here, though. Hot-swappable battery packs can be removed from the right earcup and thrown in the hub to charge up, and with two in the box you can simply swap and change as needed without ever plugging in. That's a fantastic quality of life enhancement. Since the release of SteelSeries' model, the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro has done something similar - but you're getting a far larger battery here.
That base station provides you with quick access to all your EQ settings, as well as connecting you to a separate PC as well. You can quickly switch your audio between devices (though note that, unlike the Astro A50 X above there's no video switching here to match).
Audio: Onto that sound. The wireless Arctis Nova Pro performs pretty similarly to the wired model, save for the extra immersion on offer from that active noise cancellation. That means you're getting a crystal clear soundscape with a depth that we found lent itself particularly well to open world games. Details in these environments are beautifully balanced, while still managing to leave space for a powerful bassline as well.
Verdict: The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is actually our favorite gaming headset on the market right now. Solo Xbox players will get better value for money out of the wired only model overall, but if you're after an investment piece and those cords just won't cut it this is where you need to be looking.
Read more: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless review
| Comfort | ★★★★★ |
| Audio | ★★★★★ |
| Battery | ★★★★★ |
| Microphone | ★★★★★ |
| Versatility | ★★★★★ |
| Build quality | ★★★★★ |
The best budget Xbox Series X headset
Taking advantage of the audio jack connection again, and offering a solid budget choice to get you going with your new Xbox console, the Corsair HS35 is the best Xbox Series X headset for less than $50/£50 or so right now.
✅ You mostly play single player games: Solo adventurers will have a better time with this headset than those after super precise directional sound for competitive titles.
✅ You also play on other platforms: That easy 3.5mm connection means the HS35 is ready to play nicely with other systems straight out of the box.
✅ You don't mind a wired connection: You're saving some considerable cash by opting for a wired connection, so if you don't mind a cable dangling around you're in for a treat here.
❌ You rely on directional audio: With only stereo sound at your disposal, you won't be relying on the HS35 for precise directional cues.
❌ You value more premium sound: If you're after a particularly wide soundstage, or finer handling of more ambient details you might need to invest further up the price scale.
Design: This is a thoughtfully designed piece of kit, with a sturdy yet comfortable build and some impressive audio qualities, all in one very affordable package. We loved the memory foam ear-cups and a comfy headband, making the Corsair HS35 perfectly comfortable for long periods of play during our testing. Its design is also robust enough to withstand being pulled on and off your head with a carefree attitude and survive the odd bump or two. We never noticed any scuffs or scratches from everyday use here.
Features: Considering its low price, it's no surprise that the HS35 is slim on features. You're getting the essentials, though, with a Discord-certified mic (noise cancelling and all), a 3.5mm connection for use with a range of platforms, and controls for volume and mic mute on the left cup. This far down the price range, we wouldn't expect to see much else, but this feature set keeps you covered for flexible play across a range of consoles, not just Xbox Series X.
Audio: The audio won't win sky-high awards, but it's on a par with most mid-range headsets and manages some snappy treble. We were particularly impressed by the punchy treatment given to our weapons in Wolfenstein Youngblood, with rich tones and excellent feedback to every action. There are certainly headsets in this price range falling well short of Corsair's audio capacities, so you're getting some strong value for money here.
Verdict: If you're after solid Xbox Series X audio that won't break the bank, you've found it in the Corsair HS35. You're getting all the basics you need, with a mic that can still hold up to today's chat expectations and a comfortable design for longer sessions as well.
Read more: Corsair HS35 review
| Comfort | ★★★☆☆ |
| Audio | ★★★☆☆ |
| Battery | N/A |
| Microphone | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Versatility | ★★★☆☆ |
| Build quality | ★★★☆☆ |
The best value Xbox Series X headset
If the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless above is looking a bit expensive, the Nova 5X Wireless is our next best recommendation. This headset uses the same audio tech as the pricier Nova 7, but also packs a plethora of extra features into its particularly reasonable price tag.
✅ You will want access to EQ presets on console: If you miss having audio tailored to the game you're playing while on console, look no further. The Nova 5X Wireless app packs a massive roster of engineered profiles.
✅ You need a wireless connection: There are cheaper wired headsets on the market, but if you're going cord-free this is the bottom of the price scale worth paying.
✅ Your headsets take a beating: The Nova 5X is built particularly well, with a durable frame and long-lasting materials. If you travel with your headset regularly, you're sorted here - especially with the available carry case.
❌ You want direct EQ slider control: While the app provides plenty of presets, there's no way to easily tweak individual levels without hooking up to a PC.
Design: The Nova 5X Wireless fits in with the rest of the Nova line. These smaller circular cups maintain their comfort through a plush lining and a shape that houses the ear neatly without pinching at the top. That means you're getting both a solid seal in a smaller cup design, but also the comfort of something more spacious. Of course, that's complimented by the ski-band headband, a taut piece of elastic positioned between the harder headband (cushioned with strip of rubber) and the noggin.
The whole thing feels incredibly durable in the hand, though. Between the super flexible frame, dense plastic material, and adjustable slider and toggles everything feels solid and secure. Throw in the carry case and you've got a headset that could provide even the most hectic of backpack journeys.
Features: There's one major feature propelling the Nova 5X to the front of a fairly crammed mid-range wireless headset market. That's a selection of around 100 premade game presets available via the companion app. That means you're getting audio tailored to everything from CS:GO to Lies of P, with plenty in between. Some profiles are working harder than others - the Fall Guys preset, for example, doesn't add too much to the overall experience.
Aside from that, you're getting both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connection options, which is always great to see at under $150 / £150 - though, like others in this price category, that's not a simultaneous connection. That also means you've got a new quick switcher Bluetooth button on the headset itself, but the Nova 5X also adds a chat mix dial (the Nova 4 drops this feature).
Performance: The Nova 5X sound fantastic, especially when you remember that $129.99 / £129.99 MSRP. You don't quite get the powerful lower ranges of the Pro, but the detailing across the mid and bass ranges is particularly impressive, especially in a more cluttered soundstage. Of course, those presets certainly help things as well - and we were pleased to find these benefits extended beyond your standard FPS or driving games. Baldur's Gate 3 and Fallout 4, for example, benefitted massively from sound profiles created by sound engineers and developers.
Verdict: This is our go-to recommendation for most players after an Xbox Series X headset. Yes, the Pro model is a materially better headset, but it's also more than twice the price and the 5X still packs luxury audio and plenty of customization options.
Read more: SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5X Wireless review
| Comfort | ★★★★★ |
| Audio | ★★★★☆ |
| Battery | ★★★☆☆ |
| Microphone | ★★★★★ |
| Versatility | ★★★★☆ |
| Build quality | ★★★★★ |
The best surround sound Xbox Series X headset
The Razer Kaira Pro for Xbox was one of the first Xbox Series X headsets we tested after the new generation console launched. While there are some teething problems in a headset released this close to its console, the directional audio and surround sound still holds up today.
✅ You value immersive surround sound: The surround sound in the Kaira Pros blew us away in testing, so if you're after extra immersion we'd recommend starting here.
✅ You mostly play single player games: The microphone holds the Kaira Pro back from being a true competitive monster, but if you're looking for more immersion in your solo adventures you'll find excellent value here.
✅ You want plenty of connectivity options: With both 2.4GHz and a Bluetooth connection you can hook up your phone separately to your console and choose between a range of platforms when the Xbox is off.
❌ You regularly play online with chat: The microphone underwhelmed in our testing, so while that surround sound is top notch, it's going to be best serving solo players.
❌ You prefer a more subtle aesthetic: The splash of Xbox green across this matte black surface isn't going to be for everyone. If you prefer a more streamlined design, there are other options out there.
Design: The Razer Kaira Pro keeps that Xbox themed aesthetic, pairing a bright green with matte black across its streamlined form factor. This isn't a massive headset, but it still manages to feel premium in the hand, while not weighing too much on the head. The plastic casing doesn't quite live up to that luxurious feel as much as the aluminium or steel you'll find on other devices, but that slick Razer design is still as impressive as ever.
Features: Because it's an Xbox Series X headset designed to serve every tier of the Xbox experience, the Razer Kaira Pro puts ease-of-use at the forefront. Powered by wireless and Bluetooth 5.0 connections, it's flexible and easy to swap between your Series X or your cell phone. The addition of downloadable software and an onboard game sound/chat balancer rounds out what is already a tempting package. Indeed, the former allows players to tweak their audio experience to taste or get straight into the action with pre-set profiles.
Audio: The audio experience doesn't suffer for it, though. Because the Pro is fitted with Razer Triforce titanium 50mm drivers, you're getting a wider breadth of sound in the high, mid, and low ranges. Plus, the surround sound that accompanies them is absolutely convincing - it sells a sense of place in a way no TV speaker could.
We did notice some odd crackling in our testing, though very rarely - and with no clear cause. That, and the fact that we were ever so underwhelmed by the quality of the mic, means that the Razer Kaira Pro just falls short of a perfect score.
Verdict: The Razer Kaira Pro for Xbox launched just after the Series X itself, but it's stood the test of time. Anyone after a highly directional experience with a robust surround sound should be checking this one out.
Read more: Razer Kaira Pro for Xbox review
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Audio | ★★★★☆ |
| Battery | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Microphone | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Versatility | ★★★★☆ |
| Build quality | ★★★★☆ |
The best multiplatform Xbox Series X headset
The Astro A50 X has an ace up its sleeve; its base station now functions as an HDMI switcher. That's a nifty workaround for long-standing Xbox wireless woes, allowing for quick swapping between Xbox Series X and PS5 with just the touch of a button. With Bluetooth and PC also accounted for, this is a true multiplatform device - though if you're travelling with a handheld you might need to look at something else.
✅ You play Xbox and PS5 in the same setup: While compatible with a range of systems, the Astro A50 X works best when it's sandwiched between an Xbox and PlayStation within the same setup.
✅ You only play with audio at home: The Bluetooth being limited to the base station means you'll get the best value out of this device if you only play at home.
✅ You regularly swap between consoles: This tech is going to be make the biggest splash if you're constantly getting up to swap your consoles.
❌ You want to play on the go with handhelds: Those looking to travel with a Switch or handheld when not hooked up to an Xbox will need to find another option.
❌ You need ANC: The Astro A50 X doesn't offer active noise cancellation features, unlike many other Xbox Series X headsets in this price range.
Design: The Astro A50 X is still very much an Astro headset. The angular headset slots neatly into a geometric base station, with harsh lines contrasting against softer contours throughout. The actual construction is primarily plastic, but this still feels like a sturdy device in-hand, even down to the particularly flexible swivel to each cup. There's plenty of room for adjustment in this fit, with a wide range of heights to the headband and full rotation of each side to ensure a snug fit against the head without pinching the ears. All the controls are also easily reachable, though the chat mix switch positioned across the entire right side is a target for accidental presses.
Features: The HDMI functionality of that base station is the real star of the show here. The dock itself takes HDMI 2.1 input from both an Xbox Series X and PS5 and channels the audio section straight to your headphones. That means you're left with an interrupted 4K 120Hz video feed and the ability to swap both audio and video feeds with just the press of a button. That makes this a must-see for anyone who regularly plays Xbox Series X alongside PS5. However, there are some drawbacks. If you have a PC set up in a different location you'll be moving the entire base station back and forth as and when you want to connect, and with Bluetooth limited to the dock rather than being built straight into the headset, Switch and other handhelds are limited to home use.
This is the best audio I've personally heard through a gaming headset yet
Astro A50 X review
Performance: If it weren't for those Bluetooth hiccups, the Astro A50 X would be at the top of its game just from an audio standpoint. This is a supremely well tuned set of graphene drivers, offering incredible balancing across the soundstage and powerful audio at all ranges. That's impressive considering the bass can be particularly powerful when it wants to be - but we were still able to pull out small details in even the heaviest of game soundtracks with these on the noggin. It's a bass-forward sound profile, but there's still a massive space for detailing in the higher ranges, making this a strong split overall.
Verdict: If you've got the setup to get your money's worth out of that HDMI switching functionality, the Astro A50 X is a go-to for anyone looking to invest in an Xbox Series X headset that can serve PS5 play just as well.
Read more: Astro A50 X review
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Audio | ★★★★★ |
| Battery | ★★★★★ |
| Microphone | ★★★☆☆ |
| Versatility | ★★★☆☆ |
| Build quality | ★★★★☆ |
Also tested
How we test Xbox Series X headsets
We test all the biggest Xbox Series X headsets to hit the shelves to make sure we're recommending the very best devices on the market. That also means we keep all the headsets we test in a rotating roster well after we've published our final reviews so that we can continue to compare with new releases and ensure our guidance is up to date. Every Xbox headset that crosses our path is inserted straight into our everyday setups - we live, work, and play through these devices as if we'd just bought them ourselves.
Of course, the first thing that's going to immediately catch our eye is design. Design is subjective, but there are commonalities across headsets, such as shape, build, and aesthetic that can be measured across all Xbox Series X compatible headsets. Beyond aesthetics, weight, and balance, though, we're constantly looking out for signs that wear and tear might be more of a cause of concern. These longer-term durability checks primarily take place around the hinges, the join of each cushion cover, and the headband itself as these are the most common failure points. There's no point having a great Xbox Series X headset if it's horrific to wear. That's why after checking the build quality, we're running through comfort tests across long sessions, and testing all possible adjustment options across both the cups and headband. When testing for comfort we take note of temperatures inside the cups, how much padding is on each side, and the adjustability of both the headband and the amount of swivel of the cups. We also take into consideration the overall weight of the headset, including in conjunction with the size of the cups.
Now that we know how an Xbox Series X 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.
During each testing process, each device is run through a series of audio tests across a range of different genres on Xbox Series X 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 an Xbox Series X 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.
How to choose the best Xbox Series X headset for you
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.
Of course, even something like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless isn't going to be the best Xbox Series X headset for absolutely everybody. After all, those extra features come with a cost. If you're looking to get the best value possible, it's important to outline exactly what you need from your headset, and which features you can drop.
One of the easiest ways to cut out half the market is to look at your connection. If you don't need a wireless device then there's no point in paying for one. Those prices drop dramatically once batteries and 2.4GHz tech is taken out of the equation, which often means you can devote more of your budget to the quality of your audio or microphone. However, if you want to use your headset with a third party controller, on mobile, or while out and about, you'll need to go cord-free.
After that it's time to consider your play habits. Do you only play single player titles? Look for something with a more generous soundstage and a detachable microphone. Regularly play online with chat? Make sure you're investing in a good surround system and a clear noise cancelling microphone. Do you play in a busy household or want to take your headset on journeys? Double checking the noise isolating seal or - better yet - picking up a headset with active noise cancellation is going to be particularly important.
Xbox Series X headsets FAQ
What is the best Xbox Series X headset?
After all our testing, the best Xbox Series X headset remains the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro. However, that's a particularly pricey piece of kit. If you're on the hunt for something a little more affordable, the official Xbox Wireless Headset is the best for most players.
Do Xbox One headsets work on Series X?
The great, short answer here is an emphatic 'yes'! This was one of the first things confirmed before the launch of the current-gen consoles, and was a joy to hear as that mean that every peripheral owned by Xbox One players could just be seamlessly transferred over to the Series X or Series S console.
While this does mean that your older Xbox One headset will work beautifully on the new console, we still recommend perusing our best Xbox Series X headset guide, as some of the newer entries represent genuine audio upgrades from the older sets and can take your gaming enjoyment to another level.
Which wireless headsets work on Xbox Series X?
There are a bunch of cord-free entrants in our best Xbox Series X headset list, but it's not as easy to find an Xbox Series X wireless headset as it is for other platforms. That's because Microsoft's console uses a proprietary wireless technology that just doesn't play nice with other devices. Thankfully, many brands release Xbox versions of their latest headsets to make sure everyone is well catered for.
The best example of this is the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless. While we reviewed the PlayStation version, you can find an Xbox alternative up for grabs. The Razer Kaira line also offers wireless Xbox support, as does the Turtle Beach Stealth range.
If you're outside Microsoft's camp, we're also rounding up all the best PS5 headsets on the market, as well as the best PC headsets and best Nintendo Switch headsets to boot.
Keep an eye on our Black Friday gaming headset deals hub if you want to pick up your new headset at a discount. Our Black Friday gaming deals hub is also full of savings on console bundles, and other accessories to complete your gaming setup.
