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If there's anything I've learned in all my years of gaming, it's that headsets can make or break your gaming experience. Not only do you want good sound quality, but you also want a comfortable fit and a microphone that won't make you want to rip your hair out. We did all the research for you to make sure you get the most out of your money without having to go through trial and error
Long battery life
Astro A50 Wireless
Staff pick
With Dolby 7.1 surround sound and a built-in MixAmp DAC, the A50 produces some of the finest sounds you can find in a gaming headset. Featuring 15 hours of battery life, this headset charges back up in its magnetic charging cradle. As far as wireless is concerned, it connects to the PS4 through a base station using a 5GHz wireless transmitter.
$290 at Amazon $300 at GameStop
Best budget option
Razer Kraken X
This is easily one of the most affordable options available. It features 7.1 surround sound capability when used on PC and sports a comfortable, lightweight headband that is perfect for those who wear glasses. The microphone doesn't retract like it's Kraken Pro V2 brethren but it is able to bend out of the way.
Entry-level
Astro Gaming A10
Astro's entry-level wired headset is one of its most compelling. Made from "damage resistant polycarbonate," the A10 should be able to take a beating in your gaming bag. You're not getting much in the way of fancy features, but you do get a solid, well-made, great-sounding headset with an inline volume remote so you never need to take your eye off the game.
Next level streaming
Astro Gaming A40 TR Wired Headset + MixAmp Pro TR
The MixAmp Pro TR bundle is perfect for any streamer. It allows you to control your game and voice audio as well as customize your EQ settings for the best gaming or streaming experience. You get the same durable structure with the A40 as you do with Astro's A10. The A50 mod kit for the noise-canceling ear cushions is compatible with this headset as well. One thing the A40 offers, that the other models don't, are customizable speaker tags you can remove and switch out for different looks.
Hi-Res Audio certified
SteelSeries Arctis Pro + GameDAC
SteelSeries' latest headset is the company's approach to the 'Pro' market, taking on the likes of Turtle Beach, Razer and ASTRO Gaming at the very high end. The skiband design remains so it's super comfortable, and with the included GameDAC powered by an ESS Saber with an included amplifier, you get gaming's first Hi-Res Audio certified headset.
$250 at Amazon $180 at SteelSeries
Designed for VR
Sony Gold Wireless
Designed with PlayStation VR in mind, the ear cushions are huge, soft and completely cover the ears, while the whole thing is nice and light, so you can comfortably play for extended periods. The 7.1 surround sound and internal noise-canceling microphone provide quality sound and
Go wireless
SteelSeries Arctis 7
Thanks to its innovative "ski-band" design which suspends the headset using a taut fabric band, the Arctis 7 is one of the comfiest headsets around. Excellent weight distribution lets you wear the Arctis 7 for long periods without getting fatigued, and it easily hooks up to your PS4 or PC via the included USB dongle.
$300 at Amazon $150 at SteelSeries
For professionals
Razer Thresher Ultimate for PS4
The feature-packed Thresher Ultimate for PS4 from Razer delivers crisp, clear Dolby 7.1 audio for an incredible, immersive experience that will let you pick up the most subtle details. It provides lag-free audio and voice — via fully retractable mic — at distances up to 12 meters (40 feet) and is designed to be worn by pro-gamers for long periods.
Premium quality
Turtle Beach Elite Pro Tournament
The Elite Pro Tournament headset delivers stunning, crystalline audio combined with next-level comfort. The headset's generous cushioning across the headband and ear cups allow you to forget you're even wearing a headset, reducing the physical delta between you and complete immersion. Every aspect of this experience simply screams premium.
$200 at Amazon $200 at TurtleBeach
Affordable
Turtle Beach Ear Force Recon
The Ear Force Recon comes with a high-sensitivity boom mic you can detach from the headset when you don't want to use it. There are in-line controls on the cord for you to easily control the volume and mic settings. You can even use these headphones with your PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Mac, and mobile devices!
$30 at Amazon $25 at TurtleBeach
Mid-range
Razer Kraken Pro V2
It's not the cheapest headset but it won't cost you an arm and a leg like other alternatives. The Razer Kraken Pro V2 is a mid-range headset that offers a retractable mic and lightweight aluminum headband for long gaming sessions, which makes sense considering it was designed with esports athletes in mind.
Find the headset that's best for you
Finding the gaming headset can be a little difficult. If you don't have good sound quality and a decent microphone, then you might as well throw your money in the garbage instead of buying that off-brand headset you picked up from the corner store. There are plenty of great options available that can fit your budget and have amazing quality for roughly the same price as your average $50 pair.
If you don't want to break the bank and still want exceptional audio quality, the Razer Kraken X is the way to go. It has all the necessary features for a comfortable and quality gaming experience, but for a price that fits most household budgets.
However, if money is of no issue to you and you're looking to get the best of the best, pick up the Astro A50 Wireless. With the Astro A50 you'll be basking in the complete surround sound that will help you pinpoint the footfalls of your next victim before they're close enough to see you.
by Jennifer Locke