Wireless gaming headsets are all the rage these days, but wired versions offer endless hours of listening enjoyment without concerns over battery life or signal interference. Of course, the fact that wired gaming headsets are significantly cheaper is another advantage. When shopping for the best gaming headset, gamers often look for a device that is compatible not only with PCs but with the latest Xbox and PlayStation consoles as well. Owning a headset that is more than adequate for listening to music and movies adds even more value to a potential purchase.

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Despite their relative affordability, wired gaming headsets retail at a wide range of price points with different feature sets that appeal to the specific needs of gamers. Many of the capabilities that differentiate the best gaming headsets unlock with software, but the more basic options on the market provide quality sound by simply plugging in an analog audio cable. Spatial sound offered by some headsets enhances a game-playing experience and makes listeners feel more immersed in the action while playing their favorite MMO or FPS titles. Other wired headsets emphasize style that separates themselves from traditional headphones, with spectacular RGB lighting effects. The following wired headsets include models geared for top-tier sound, style, and compatibility that will leave buyers with no regrets even after regular prolonged gaming sessions.

Before choosing a wired gaming headset, make sure to consider the following:

• Overall price
• Device compatibility
• Sound quality
• Mic performance
• RGB lighting
• Length of cord
• Number of additional features

Every player will weigh these factors differently, making it easier to narrow the options to just the gaming headsets that will fit each individual best.

The best overall best gaming headset needs to check a lot of boxes including broad compatibility with sources and a well-rounded sound output when gaming. Fortunately, the Razer BlackShark V2 is up to the task and is an extremely popular choice for Esports competitors and casual gamers.

The Razer BlackShark V2 and its TriForce 50mm drivers ensure that highs, mids, and lows are easily identifiable and that all games, music, and movies will sound equally great. The headset includes a compact USB soundcard, which when plugged into a PC, allows for further customization of the detachable boom microphone and various sound profiles. The BlackShark V2 is one of the most comfortable and low-profile wired gaming headsets, though the attached USB sound card makes it slightly less portable.

Read our full review of the Razer BlackShark V2 Gaming Headset.

There's no reason to spend a ton on a gaming headset if a player is okay with not having the very best specs. Just like other budget PC peripherals like mice and keyboards, the Tatybo wired gaming headset makes some slight sacrifices to its specs in order to lower the cost. However, that doesn't mean this headset isn't a great option for most gamers.

Designed to be ultra-comfortable, this headset only weighs half a pound and features memory foam earcups. Along with the external design, the headset also offers a noise-cancelling mic and high precision 50mm magnetic neodymium drivers to create an immersive experience both to and from intense battlefields. Plus, there are a handful of colors to choose from, all of them with bright and bold RGB lighting!

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HyperX's sterling reputation in the early 2000s was a result of its excellent high-performance computer memory, but in more recent years the company developed a large following as a manufacturer of gaming controllers, mice, keyboards, and headsets. The HyperX Cloud II emphasizes comfort with a sleek and lightweight design highlighted by the company's traditional red trim available in some variations.

Performance-wise the HyperX Cloud II is no slouch either, with some ear-rattling bass effects and plenty of power. Stepping up from budget headsets, the included USB control box provides some capabilities not common with all mid-range gaming headsets such as a button for Virtual 7.1 surround sound. With USB and analog audio connections, the Cloud II is compatible with the most common sources. Included in the package are alternative velour ear cushions, making the headset a superb value.

Read our full review of the HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset.

The best high-end wired gaming headset must clear a high bar in terms of performance, compatibility, and durability. SteelSeries makes some of the top all-around gaming headsets on the market and the Arctis Nova Pro manages to deliver in all of these areas.

What separates the Arctis Nova Pro from the competition is its Gen 2 GameDac, which allows for powerful sound customizations using the SteelSeries app and provides a way to connect to almost every device out there. With USB connections and standard line-in analog ports, gamers can connect the Nova Pro simultaneously to PCs and consoles and easily switch between sources. In addition, the headset construction uses premium materials that withstand abuse, and its crystal clear ClearCast Gen 2 microphone ranks among the best in its class.

As stunning as RGB gaming headsets can look, the reality is most users won't see themselves wearing them. Unless of course, they video chat with their own image on the screen or stream on popular platforms like Twitch or YouTube. Without streamers endorsing them, Razer's line of Kitty headsets probably wouldn't be nearly as popular as it is. The wired Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro is the company's latest feline-inspired headset, but its name alone doesn't do justice to the range of looks possible with the device.

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If a gamer feels that the kitty appearance is all too common with headsets, Razer also supplies buyers with interchangeable bear and bunny ears. The detachable ears also house additional lights, giving the headset a more impactful look than other headsets, especially in darker rooms. Not surprisingly, all the lights on the Kraken Kitty V2 Pro work seamlessly with Razer's other Chroma-enabled RGB mice and keyboards configured using Synapse software. The headset normally connects to the PC, Switch, and PS5 through a USB connection, but in cosplay mode, aspiring models can power the RGB lighting using a portable power bank.

Beyond its cuteness and external lighting, the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro has TriForce 50mm drivers which provide the usual powerful and balanced sound produced by other Kraken headsets. The Kraken Kitty V2 Pro also includes a detachable noise-cancelling microphone that effectively removes annoying background distractions. While the Kraken Kitty V2 Pro is undoubtedly one of the best gaming headsets for streamers, it lacks authentic spatial audio, so gamers will have to settle for conventional 7.1 surround sound.

If the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro seems too extravagant to some gamers, the HAVIT Wired RGB Gaming Headset is a budget-wired gaming headset designed for listeners who demand the best audio experience. It features high-precision 50mm drivers and clear 3D surround sound, providing an upgraded audio experience and allowing you to never miss any sound during fast-paced gameplay. The headset is also versatile and compatible with a range of devices, including the Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, and PC.

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One of the standout features of the HAVIT Wired RGB Gaming Headset is its unique and eye-catching RGB rainbow light. The headset has fascinating RGB rainbow lighting effects on both sides of the earmuff and two RGB light-emitting tubes over the headband, adding an immersive gaming atmosphere. The headset also has an omnidirectional, adjustable microphone that provides clear sound pickup and delivery with its premium noise-canceling features. The microphone switch is located behind the left side of the headset for easy on-and-off control. In terms of comfort, the HAVIT Wired RGB Gaming Headset has breathable fabric earmuffs with soft memory foam and a lightweight, auto-adjustable headband. These features provide comfort and freedom for the ears and head during long gaming sessions. The headset is also easy to use, with plug-and-play functionality that doesn't require any drivers.

Effective noise cancellation on a gaming headset is difficult to find, with most gamers having to settle for the feature implemented only on microphones. The JBL Quantum One not only has noise cancellation, but active noise cancellation which generates a phase-inverted sound to block out distracting background noise. Beyond its noise-cancelling prowess, the Quantum One is an impressive overall gaming headset, compatible with PCs and most consoles.

JBL's QuantumSphere 360 surround sound technology works as well as any spatial sound system in the industry, using the headset's built-in mic to calibrate channel levels. JBL is relatively new to the gaming headset arena but has included some flashy RGB lighting effects rivaling Razer or Corsair models. The included chat mixer is the only real disappointment, with no volume or gain controls.

Make sure to check out our full review of the JBL Quantum ONE Gaming Headset.

The options for Microsoft Xbox-compatible gaming headsets are vast, but the number of officially licensed Xbox products that actually exude the console's style is far fewer. The green and black Turtle Beach Recon 70x not only looks like an Xbox peripheral but produces well-balanced and powerful sound at a reasonable price.

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Turtle Beach is proud of its high-quality microphones, and the Recon 70x has a flip-to-mute mic that excels during intense multiplayer gaming. As an official Microsoft Xbox-approved headset, Turtle Beach emphasizes its compatibility with the Windows Sonic spatial audio format, which surrounds gamers with a rich and dynamic soundscape. The Recon 70x is also compatible with PCs and other consoles thanks to its analog audio input but lacks noise isolation to filter out distracting background noises. The Turtle Beach Recon 70x is the best wired gaming headset for Xbox supporters, with a microphone and sound quality that defy its very reasonable asking price.

The 3D Audio-compatible Sony Pulse wireless headset is an extremely popular choice for PlayStation gamers, but the stalwart Razer Kraken is also one of the best gaming headsets for PS4 and PS5 users. Available in a blue and black color scheme that appeals to PlayStation fans who appreciate dark themes, the Kraken is a hard-to-resist combination of performance, style, and comfort.

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The Razer Kraken sports custom-tuned 50mm drivers which can output audio at potentially dangerous volume levels but high, mid, and low sounds remain relatively distinguishable. Razer improves on past versions of the Kraken by placing cooling gel in the earcups, so the headset remains comfortable even after hours of use. While its styling screams PlayStation, like the best gaming headphones, the Kraken is also compatible with PC and Xbox consoles.

The Logitech G Pro X is one of the best gaming headsets the company has ever made, complete with a unique design and attractive modern styling. Compared to its far more expensive wireless version, the G Pro X makes few compromises. The headband consists of more than the typical amount of padding so that gaming grind fests will pass by without annoying earlobe pain. The G Pro X is as versatile as any wired gaming headset in its price range, with analog audio inputs and a USB audio adapter giving PC users greater control over sound profiles.

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The Logitech G Pro X is a favorite choice among Esports professionals like Alexander "s1mple" Kostylev with the headset's Blue Vo!ce filtering enhancing voice recording quality and enabling speakers to talk with volume and clarity. The wired gaming headset also works well with the latest consoles, although users lose many of the advantages made possible by its powerful PC app. To suit the preferences of every gamer, the Logitech G Pro X includes several accessories, most notably a choice between foam and leatherette earcups.

Read our full review of the Logitech G Pro X Gaming Headset.

Unlike other brands including Razer, Logitech, and SteelSeries, all of Corsair's wired gaming headsets are reasonably priced. Corsair wired headsets tend to focus on comfort and sound quality without many of the extraneous features of higher-priced alternatives. The Corsair HS60 Pro connects to PCs using an attached USB sound card for 7.1 surround sound. The headset also has an analog audio jack for stereo sound with PS4, PS5, and Xbox controllers.

Memory foam earcups ensure that listeners using the Corsair HS60 Pro will not feel any discomfort, even after hours of gaming. However, some users with larger heads may find the fit of the HS60 feels especially snug, at least until the clamps loosen a bit. PC users can fully unlock the potential of the Corsair HS60, benefiting from Corsair's iCue software to enhance virtual surround sound effects. There are also several EQ presets, including one for FPS games, that boost the sound of approaching footsteps and makes explosions sound more lifelike

The HS60 won't provide the wide soundstage or Dolby Atmos support of the Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT that Mr. Beast relies on. Even so, the HS60 is a well-made peripheral with the ability to connect to PCs and most consoles, and will likely last as long or longer than more expensive options.

Still Need Help Picking a Wired Gaming Headset?

As our guide demonstrates, there are excellent wired headsets at many different price points, making a decision even more difficult for prospective buyers. Two of the most important factors to consider when shopping for a wired headset are the available budget and what sources a gamer wishes to connect the device to. More expensive headsets tend to offer perks like elaborate RGB lighting and convincing spatial audio effects. However, many budget-friendly candidates are constructed with premium materials and also produce loud and well-balanced audio.

Some gamers turn to wired headsets thinking that they will provide the widest compatibility with PCs and consoles. In reality, since some headsets use a USB connection meant primarily for a PC, not all will work with Xbox consoles while having only limited functionality with other gaming systems. Make sure to research any headset in advance to ensure that it will meet all of your gaming needs.

The Razer BlackShark V2, selected as our overall best wired gaming headset, is the most sensible purchase for the vast majority of gamers. A cheaper alternative not mentioned is the almost equally excellent BlackShark V2 X. Both headsets are not only stylish but also connect to most devices with limited compromises. Even so, there is no single peripheral that is perfect for every gamer, and most other options in this guide will satisfy buyers with the immersive listening experience that only a headset offers.

When shopping for a new wired gaming headset, there are a lot of things to consider. The most important factor for many gamers is price, as a wired headset can cost as little as $10 or run as high as $200. Second to cost is typically compatibility. For gamers with a variety of devices, having a wide compatibility is a must, while other players just need a headset that works with PC. There are dozens of other small features to think about, such as the length of the cord, whether the headset has RGB lighting, or whether the mic is detachable, so players should decide what's important to them before finally choosing their favorite gaming headset.

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FAQ

Q: How do I know if a wired gaming headset is right for me?

Wired gaming headsets offer a number of benefits, including a stable and consistent connection, low latency, and the ability to use the headset with a range of devices. If you prefer a wired connection and don't mind the added hassle of connecting the headset to your device, a wired gaming headset may be the right choice for you.

Q: Can I use a wired gaming headset with my phone or tablet?

Yes, many wired gaming headsets are compatible with mobile devices and tablets. However, you may need to purchase an adapter or use a splitter to connect the headset to your device.

Q: Are wired gaming headsets prone to interference or signal loss?

Wired gaming headsets are generally less prone to interference and signal loss compared to wireless headsets. However, the quality of the connection will depend on the quality of the wire and the device you are using. If you experience issues with signal loss or interference, you may need to try a different wire or check for any issues with your device.