Best Gaming Headset for Xbox One to Get in 2021

After reviewing the best headsets for PS4 consoles, it would only make sense that should also find the best gaming headset for Xbox One, One X, and Series X! Except, this time, there is no price limit.

Once again, since each headset has its own pros and cons, we are going to be listing several different options. Then you can check them out and pick whatever suits you best. So, without any further ado, let us get right into it!

Quick Peek

1. SteelSeries Arctis 9X: Best overall headset on this list. It's wireless with great sound and decent comfort. Hard to go wrong with this one if you have the money for it
2. HyperX Cloud Alpha: Possibly the best wired headset that you can get. It offers balanced sound and it's built like a tank
3. SteelSeries Arctis 1: One of the best budget gaming headsets out there – but it's obviously a bit inferior to pricier options
4. HyperX Cloud 2: Generally the best value you can get out of a headset. Very similar to the Cloud Alpha but without a removable cable
5. Razer Kraken: The best option if you want a mid-ranger with strong bass at the expense of balanced sound
6. Sennheiser Game One: Offers the widest soundstage at the expense of noise isolation
7. SteelSeries Arctis 3: A great budget alternative to the Arctis 1. Though, at that price point, you may as well spend the extra 10 bucks and get the Cloud 2
8. Corsair Void Elite: An all-around decent pick if you don't mind having a kind of fancy headset. Just keep in mind that it has little noise isolation and that is bass is a bit underemphasized
9. Astro A40 TR: A great alternative to the Game One if you are after an open-back headset. It's a bit bulky but very comfortable with great sound and comfort levels (But with the obvious downside of having no noise isolation)
10. Logitech G433: A headset that offers a lot without asking for much in return. For just a bit over $100, you get great sound, great comfort, and decent build quality as well. Just keep in mind that its noise isolation is kinda mediocre

1. SteelSeries Arctis 9X: Best Xbox One Wireless Headset

Do you want the best headset that money can you get in terms of quality? Then it's hard to go wrong with the SteelSeries Arctis 9X.

• MSRP: $199
• Features: Retractable microphone, Bluetooth, recractable microphone, and onboard controls
• Connectivity: Wireless with Bluetooth and Wired 3.5mm

And the good thing about it is that you don't even need a dongle. Thanks to the fact that it comes with Bluetooth, you can use the SteelSeries Arctis 9X as it is. Though, it's worth keeping in mind that if you also want it for PC, you may have to get the dongle that's being sold separately.

That's due to the fact that while Bluetooth works just fine with any PC that has a Bluetooth adapter, the latency may be a bit too much. Especially when it comes to competitive gaming.

It's also worth noting that Bluetooth, in combination with the 3.5mm jack, allows you to plug this headset to pretty much everything out there. Be it a PlayStation console, Xbox, smartphones, tablets, or anything at all.

The audio is all-around great and pretty balanced. But keep in mind that the low bass is a bit on the weak side – which can be a deal-breaker for those of you who love a strong thump.

Comfort and build quality are overall pretty great as well. However, one of its few downsides is noise isolation. You may get a lot of breathability thanks to the porous earpads, but that's also why external noises can easily infiltrate the headset.

Pros:

• Very balanced
• Good microphone
• Great build quality
• Offers plenty of connectivity options (Bluetooth, dongle, and 3.5mm wired)
• Retractable or removable microphones are always a welcome addition
• Fairly comfy and breathable (At the expense of noise isolation)
• Great battery life (20+ hours)

Cons:

• Bass is a bit underemphasized
• The large earcups make it a bit bulky
• Noise isolation is mediocre at best

Check it out on Amazon

2. HyperX Cloud Alpha: Best Wired Gaming Headset

We've already created plenty of lists with different kinds of headsets and the HyperX Cloud 2 almost always comes out on top. The Cloud Alpha, on the other hand, is an upgraded version that fixes some of the issues that its older sibling has for a slightly higher price tag. So, this time, it gets the number one recommendation as far as wired headsets are concerned.

• MSRP: $99.99
• Features: Removable microphone and removable audio cable
• Connectivity: Wired with 3.5mm cables

Let us start by saying that unlike the SteelSeries Arctis 9X, the bass on this headset is very close to perfection. It's strong enough to feel pleasant and deliver a good thump but not to the point where it overwhelms the other frequencies. The only downside is that the highs are generally sharp and, depending on your personal preferences, they may also come across as harsh.

When it comes to comfort, this is no doubt one of the most comfortable headsets we've ever tried – if not the most comfortable. The earpads are great and so is the padding on top. Though, it's worth noting that the clamping force can be a bit tight for larger heads and that breathability is not that good due to the tight seal and leatherette.

It's worth noting that build quality is amazing. Most of the Cloud headsets are built like tanks and the Cloud Alpha is not an exception here. In fact, it's even more durable than its cheaper siblings thanks to the removable cable that you can easily replace in case something goes wrong.

One of the few downsides is that the noise isolation is surprisingly bad for a closed-back headset.

Pros:

• All-around great sound
• Superb build quality
• Removable cables and microphones are always a welcome addition
• In-line controls are good to have

Cons:

• Mediocre noise isolation

Check it out on Amazon

3. SteelSeries Arctis 1: Best Budget Gaming Headset

At less than $50, the SteelSeries Arctis 1 is no doubt one of the best budget offerings that are out there at the moment. It obviously has a few downsides that you won't find in most of the pricier headsets – but that's the price to pay for, well, not paying more.

• MSRP: $49.99
• Features: Detachable microphone and an onboard volume wheel
• Connectivity: Wired with a 3.5mm cable

The bass on this one is generally good as it kicks in enough to feel good but not to the point where it'll drown the other frequencies. The problem is that most of the mid and high range sounds dull. And while that's something that you may be able to somewhat fix on a PC thanks to equalizers, you're stuck with that audio signature on Xbox.

Comfort is generally good. Especially for the money. The lack of good padding on top and the mushy earpads may be deal-breakers for some people, though. At least the clamping force is just about right for most of us.

Build quality is also a step down from the pricier Arctis headsets. Not only in terms of quality – but also in terms of functionality. After all, there is no adjustable headband and the microphone is removable; not retractable. Though, we personally prefer removable ones.

Thankfully, noise isolation is pretty decent for indoors. While you won't be able to block low frequency sounds like the rumble of an engine, the situation is looking just fine in the mids and highs.

Also, surprisingly enough, the microphone of the Arctis 1 is so good that it can compete even with high-end options.

Pros:

• Cheap
• Great microphone (Especially for the money)
• Removable microphone
• Onboard controls are always great to see in cheaper headsets

Cons:

• A bit dull-sounding compared to pricier options
• Build quality is mediocre at best

Check it out on Amazon

4. HyperX Cloud 2: Best Value

At just under $80, barely anything out there can compete with the HyperX Cloud 2. Barely anything offers that much while asking for so little.

• MSRP: $99.99 (But you can often find it for much less nowadays)
• Features: USB sound card with controls, and removable microphone
• Connectivity: Wired 3.5mm or USB Headset

And it's not just about the money. The Cloud 2 is one of the best headsets that you can get no matter if we are talking about 80 bucks or 300. There are, of course, the Cloud Alpha, Alpha S, along with some audiophile options from SteelSeries. Not to mention wireless headsets. But if you want an affordable headset that is sturdy, sounds great, and is very comfortable as well, this is the one.

Just like the Cloud Alpha, the Cloud 2s are built like a tank. In fact, this may be even sturdier as it doesn't have any weight relief.

The sound is all-around great and balanced. But, just like with the Cloud Alpha, there is a bit of sharpness to the highs that some people may not like. Though, it's worth keeping in mind that this may potentially give you a competitive edge.

It's also worth noting that due to its small size, some people with large heads may find it to be a bit too tight on the head. Your mileage may vary depending on temple sensitivity.

Surprisingly enough, the noise isolation is actually better here than it is on the Cloud Alpha or Alpha S. And that's always a good thing – unless you don't enjoy the feeling of air pressure that closed-back headsets such as this one can create.

Pros:

• Extremely sturdy
• Balanced sound
• Removable microphone
• Great value

Cons:

• Only works with a cable (Which is not removable)
• Some may find it a bit sharp
• Can be a bit tight for people with larger heads

Check it out on Amazon

5. Razer Kraken: Best Bassy Headset

Razer is a bit of a premium name in the gaming industry. It's unusual seeing cheap Razer products and it's even more unusual seeing Razer products that are both cheap and good – which is precisely what the Razer Kraken is.

• MSRP: $79.99
• Features: Retractable microphone
• Connectivity: Wired with 3.5mm cable

Dubbed by many as the best gaming headset, the Razer Kraken is no doubt one of the best bassy options out there. And that's something important to keep in mind cause if you want something a bit more balanced, you are not going to get it here.

The Kraken is for those who want something affordable yet punchy. While the overwhelming bass can drown the other frequencies, that's not going to be a problem for most games and it's actually desirable by many people.

Sound aside, comfort is generally good as well. The earpads are big and soft, there's plenty of padding on top, and the clamping force doesn't feel too tight.

Build quality is also great thanks to the metal frame and dense plastic. Chances are that this headset is not going to give up on you just from everyday usage. But just like with the Cloud 2, the lack of a removable/replaceable cable is a bit worrisome.

The microphone is not removable either – but it's fully retractable – which is always a plus.

Pros:

• Strong bass
• Solid build quality
• Retractable/removable microphones are always a welcome addition
• Good microphone

Cons:

• Its bass may be a bit too much for some

Check it out on Amazon

6. Sennheiser Game One: Best Open-Back Headset

A common mistake that tons of manufacturers make when it comes to gaming is that they don't offer any options for open-back variants. Not Sennheiser, though. If you are on the lookout for an open-back headset to get the widest soundstage possible, the Sennheiser Game One is your best bet!

• MSRP: $134.49
• Features: Flip-to-mute mic, removable cable and open-back enclosure
• Connectivity: Wired with 3.5mm cable

In case you are not familiar with the term, 'open-back' means that a headset is using an open enclosure. Allowing air to freely pass in and out delivers a different kind of sound and considerably widens the soundstage – which can be quite the game-changer here – no pun intended.

Soundstage aside, the Sennheiser Game One also offers a pretty balanced audio signature. But it's worth noting that the bass is a bit weak. And that's something that, unfortunately, is a common occurrence with mid-range, open-back headphones.

Comfort is all-around superb to the point where it probably even dethrones the HyperX Cloud 2. The earpads are so very soft and so is the top while there is very little clamping force. Not to mention that the headset itself offers a lot of breathability due to the open-back design.

Build quality is decent as well. While most of the headset feels a bit plasticky, its frame is made of metal and it feels rather flexible.

The only downside to think about is noise isolation. Open-back headsets offer little to no noise isolation. So, if you live in a noisy house, we'd suggest looking elsewhere.

Pros:

• Very wide soundstage (When compared to closed-back headsets)
• Balanced sound
• Extremely comfortable
• Lift-to-mute microphone is a welcome addition
• Great microphone

Cons:

• Zero noise isolation
• The bass frequencies are underemphasized (Particularly, the lower ones)

Check it out on Amazon

7. SteelSeries Arctis 3: Alternative Budget Headset

The SteelSeries Arctis 1 may be one of the cheapest, decent headsets that you can get. But if you are willing to spend about $14 more, the Arctis 3 is a very solid upgrade.

• MSRP: $69.99
• Features: Retractable microphone and removable cable
• Connectivity: Wired with 3.5mm cable (Bluetooth only works properly on smartphones)

The first thing you'll notice is that it comes with a slightly different, more comfortable design. Not to mention it's also more sturdy. Not only thanks to the dense plastic parts – but also thanks to the removable audio cable.

The audio signature is also a bit of an upgrade as we are now dealing with more accurate mids and highs. However, it's worth pointing out that bass is still a bit lacking.

A welcome addition is Bluetooth connectivity. And while you can't use it for decent wireless connectivity in gaming, you can take advantage of it to wirelessly connect the headset with your phone. Just keep in mind that the lack of decent passive (and active) noise isolation make this a relatively bad headset for commuting.

Then again, the same applies to almost all headsets. If you want something decent for commuting, a good pair of noise-canceling headphones is always going to be a better choice for commuting.

Another good thing is the fact that it's a bit more breathable than your average closed-back headset – maybe thanks to its porous earpads. But as we mentioned above, the bad thing about them is that they don't block a whole lot of noise.

Pros:

• Cheap
• Retractable/removable microphones and removable audio cables are always a welcome addition
• Great-sounding microphone
• Bluetooth is also a welcome addition

Cons:

• Mediocre build quality
• Mediocre noise isolation
• A bit weak in term of bass

Check it out on Amazon

8. Corsair Void Elite: Great Mid-Range Headset

The Corsair Void series is a classic choice no matter if you are on PC, Xbox, or PlayStation. It's pretty comfortable, fancy, good-sounding, and it doesn't cost too much either.

• MSRP: $80
• Features: Foldable microphone
• Connectivity: Wired with USB (May require an Xbox adapter that's not included in the box)

One of the main reasons why this headset is loved (and hated) by so many people is due to its fancy design. Not only it's pretty aggressive, but if you are wiling to spend a bit more, there's also a version with RGB lighting.

Comfort is also pretty good thanks to the spacious earpads and the padding on top. Not to mention that the clamping force is just about right.

Durability feels fine for the most part. But both the microphone and the audio cable are not removable/replaceable. Not to mention that the hinges don't feel all that sturdy. For the same money, you can get the HyperX Cloud 2 – which is one of the sturdiest headsets out there. So, that's a downside in our book.

And speaking of downsides, this headset uses a USB cable for connectivity. This means that you'll likely need to be a separate Microsoft adapter for it to work while there's no way to connect it on smartphones or other 3.5mm devices.

At least the sound is very balanced if only a bit light on the bass due to the breathable earpads.

Pros:

• Pretty comfortable
• Relatively cheap
• Very balanced mids and highs
• Spacious earpads

Cons:

• Microphone quality is mediocre at best
• Poor noise isolation
• May require a separate Microsoft adapter to work with Xbox (Should have been included in the box since it's advertised for Xbox)
• A bit weak in terms of bass

Check it out on Amazon

9. Astro A40 TR: Best Open-Back Alternative

Open-back headsets are better for gaming than you may think. While they have the obvious downside of offering no noise isolation, their open-back enclosure is the only way to get the widest soundstage possible – which can be a game-changer – no pun intended.

And as far as open-back headsets are concerned, apart from the Sennheiser Game One, another great option is the Astro A40 TR!

• MSRP: $249.99
• Features: Detachable microphone and the optional MixAmp
• Connectivity: Wired with 3.5mm or USB (Depending on if you get the dock or not)

First things first, this is one of the most comfortable headsets that you can get. Period. The earpads are spacious and deep while there's plenty of padding on top and the clamping force is light. Not to mention that breathability is great thanks to the open-back design and that you don't get that 'underwater' sensations that closed-back headsets can sometimes give you.

For those who are interested, there is also the option of spending a little extra to get the MixAmp. As the name suggests, that's an amplifier that you can use to control certain functions of the headset such as volume, audio balance, EQ presets, and microphone muting as well.

Build quality is also pretty great. The headset feels sturdy and we highly doubt that you can break it with normal usage.

The sound is no doubt great as well and it offers this very wide soundstage that's impossible to get on a closed-back headset. However, it's worth keeping in mind that the highs can be a little bit all over the place. To be more precise, it can be somewhat sharp – but that's fine if you prefer 'detailed' sound.

Pros:

• Very wide soundstage
• Generally balanced sound signature
• Very comfortable
• MixAmp is a welcome addition (But costs extra)
• Removable cables and microphones are always a welcome addition
• Superb microphone

Cons:

• Zero noise isolation by design
• May be a bit sharp for some people
• A bit bulky

Check it out on Amazon

10. Logitech G433: Great Value

For just a bit more than $100, the Logitech G433 is a great value as you can get pretty much everything that's mandatory for a decent gaming headset. Great audio, decent comfort, and decent build quality.

• MSRP: $100
• Features: DTS Headphone: X 7.1, removable microphone, and basic onboard controls
• Connectivity: Wired with a 3.5mm cable or USB adapter and two splitters

First things first, it comes with a fairly simplistic design while also offering a detachable microphone and audio cord. Thanks to both that and its 3.5mm cable, you should be able to use it everywhere with everything. Except, of course, with smartphones that don't have a 3.5mm jack.

The sound is surprisingly balanced for the money. Both the bass and mids make their presence known without overwhelming the other frequencies. As per usual with most headsets, the highs can get a bit sharp – but that's a necessary sacrifice to make in order to earn the competitive edge and a bit of extra clarity.

Comfort is also great thanks to the spacious earpads, padding on top, and little clamping force. Not to mention that the soft material on the earpads helps a lot with breathability (But at the expense of noise isolation).

And that's pretty much its only downside. If you make an exception for the poor noise isolation, there are hardly any reasons to not recommend this headset at this price point.

Pros:

• Fairly balanced sound
• Removable audio cable and microphone
• Very comfortable
• Spacious earcups
• Great microphone
• Casual design with a 3.5mm cable allows you to use it everywhere

Cons:

• Bad noise isolation performance
• May be a bit sharp at times

Check it out on Amazon

FAQ

Why So Few Wireless Headsets?

It's by pure chance that most of the good wireless headsets we've come across only work with PC and PlayStation. Still, it's hard to go wrong with the SteelSeries Arctis 9X. And if you are after something cheaper, check out the HyperX Cloud Flight as well.

Which Xbox One Headset Should I Buy?

Depends on what you are after:

• Strong bass at the expense of sound balance: Razer Kraken
• Balanced sound at the expense of strong bass: HyperX Cloud Alpha
• Wireless and balanced but expensive: SteelSeries Arctis 9X
• Cheap but objectively not as good as pricier options: SteelSeries Arctis 1
• Wide soundstage at the expense of noise isolation: Sennheiser Game One

And then feel free to check out the other best headsets for Xbox One for alternative options.

What Headset do Pro Xbox Players Use?

Mostly the best of the best – such as the SteelSeries Arctis 9X. One of the cheaper, very popular options for e-sports is the HyperX Cloud 2, though.

Will Any Gaming Headset Work with Xbox One?

Headsets with 3.5mm cables should work just fine. However, wireless headsets or wired USB headsets need to be specifically made for Xbox or they won't work.

Why Do Pro Gamers Use Two Pairs of Headphones?

In competitive tournaments, one pair is used to block external sounds and another pair is used to broadcast the actual game sound. So, there's no reason for the average person to use two pair of headphones. Even pros don't have to when playing outside of tournaments.

Are Expensive Gaming Headsets Worth it?

Anything around the $100 mark is a worthy investment. After that, you should start seeing diminishing returns. But, if you want certain premium features, such as audiophile-level audio or good wireless audio, expensive headsets are absolutely worth it.

Is IEM Good for Gaming?

In-Ear Monitors (IEM) offer no soundstage at all. So, while they can be used for gaming, you are not going to get the best gaming experience out of them.

What Are Good Cheap Gaming Headsets?

Some of the best picks out there are the:

• SteelSeries Arctis 1
• SteelSeries Arctis 3
• And Razer Kraken

If you are willing to spend just a bit more, the HyperX Cloud 2 is a much better choice, though. Unless you want excessive bass – in which case – the Kraken is a better pick.

Are Gaming Headsets Good for Music?

Some gaming headsets are decent for music. But, more often than not, you'd be better off with a pair of good audiophile headphones. Headphones such as the Sennheiser HD600, Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO, Philips SHP9500, Audio-Technica M40x, etc.

How Much Should You Spend on a Gaming Headset?

$70-120 is the sweet spot. Any higher than that and we usually reach the point of diminishing returns.

Are Gaming Headsets Better than Headphones?

Gaming headsets are more convenient for gaming – but you can't beat an actual, good pair of audiophile headphones when it comes to music.

What Should I look for When Buying a Gaming Headset?

• Build quality
• Sound signature
• Features
• Comfort
• Microphone quality
• Soundstage
• Imaging
• Noise isolation
• And Connectivity

Don't forget that the perfect headset does not exist. If you want the widest soundstage possible, you sacrifice noise isolation. If you want the strongest bass, you sacrifice balanced sound, etc.

Is Bass Important for Gaming?

No. Bass is a matter of personal preference. If you like strong bass, power to you. If not, look for chiller alternatives.

When it comes to competitive gaming, imaging and soundstage are two of the most important things to look out for the best gaming headset for Xbox One – and any other platform too. Thankfully, most gaming headsets offer great imaging – they are made for that, after all.

Wrapping Up

These are our top picks. So, what's your best gaming headset for Xbox One? Feel free to let us and everyone else know about it in the comments section down below!

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TESTING SOURCE: RTINGS