BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
Best of the best
The vast majority of Bluetooth devices will connect to whatever you’re using. (Devices with out-of-date software may be an exception to this rule.) Sometimes you need to browse your options menus to get the devices to connect, but everything should work in short order.
After testing over 40 headsets over the course of 60 hours, we think the HyperX Cloud Alpha is the most comfortable, best sounding gaming headset for most people, hampered only by its clear but nasal microphone.
A good set of headphones can sound great at low volumes, so look for some that can do your music justice
without causing any long-term damage to your ears.
The vast majority of Bluetooth devices will connect to whatever you’re using. (Devices with out-of-date software may be an exception to this rule.) Sometimes you need to browse your options menus to get the devices to connect, but everything should work in short order.
Key considerations
There are thousands of different headphones to choose from, and that can get overwhelming pretty quickly. Before you consider any specific models, start with these questions. Your answers will help point you in the right direction.
Will you use your headphones while exercising?
If you’re buying a pair of headphones for an activity that involves moving a lot, start by looking at earbuds with over-the-ear hooks: they’re designed to stay in place no matter what you’re doing.
Do you prefer the convenience of wireless headphones or the audio fidelity of wired headphones?
There’s a lot of debate in the headphone world about wireless audio. Wireless standards like Bluetooth are capable of making music sound great, but because Bluetooth relies on data compression, it will never sound quite as good as a wired connection. The big question is, with the improvements in Bluetooth, can anyone tell the difference anymore between Bluetooth audio and wired audio? We’re skeptical that the difference is meaningful, so here’s our best advice: if you’re an audiophile who cares about hearing music in high fidelity, you’ll probably be better off with a set of wired headphones; if you need everything to sound great but prefer the convenience of wireless connections.
Headset prices
Inexpensive
Most casual users can find a good pair of headphones for between $20 and $50. Headphones in this price range sound great, include key features like an in-line microphone, and often support wireless Bluetooth connections.
Mid-range
Many headphones that cost between $50 and $130 include improved sound and useful smartphone integration (like custom EQ controls). In this price range, you’ll also see a big jump in the quality of materials used, which improves both the sound and the luxury of each pair. If you need a pair of well-made headphones with basic noise cancellation, you’ll need to spend at least this much.
Hyper X Cloud Alpha
The best gaming headset
More of our panelists found the HyperX Cloud Alpha comfortable enough for extended wear than the other headphones we tested. The removable microphone is adequate for talking to teammates, though it will make you sound a bit stuffy. The aluminum construction is confidence-inspiring despite the headset’s light weight, and the materials.
- Comfortable
- Clear sound quality
- Easy-to-use settings
- No active noise cancellation
- Expensive
- Does not have a mute button
Sennheiser GSP 300
A superior mic but less comfortable
If you want a better mic, get the Sennheiser GSP 300. Voices come across clearly, and the the GSP 300’s sound is as well tuned for games as the Cloud Alpha’s. Our panelists with larger heads, however, didn't find the GSP 300 as comfortable, plus the GSP 300 is plastic and feels more cheap than the Alpha. And unlike the Cloud Alpha, its cable isn't detachable.
- Clear sound quality
- Easy to set up
- Decent range
- Button placement
- Expensive
Gaming Headsets FAQ
The vast majority of Bluetooth devices will connect to whatever you’re using. (Devices with out-of-date software may be an exception to this rule.) Sometimes you need to browse your options menus to get the devices to connect, but everything should work in short order.
The vast majority of Bluetooth devices will connect to whatever you’re using. (Devices with out-of-date software may be an exception to this rule.) Sometimes you need to browse your options menus to get the devices to connect, but everything should work in short order.
