2024 is going to be a great year for video games. Not only do we have some heavy hitters set to release (Hades 2, anyone?), but there are tons of great gaming headsets that can help you get the most out of your gaming audio. If you’re looking to up the audio quality of your game time, I can help.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Credit: SteelSeries
The first option on our list, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, is a fantastic option, and it has been my go-to since its release in 2022. They come equipped with a dual battery system to keep one battery charged at all times, allowing for easy swapping whenever you run out of juice.
The connection is strong, and the headset comes with support for Bluetooth and wireless connections via a control station that you connect to your PC. The software for the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro also allows for a ton of customization when it comes to EQ, controlling how loud voice programs like Discord and Teamspeak are, and even controls that let you change how your voice sounds through the built-in microphone. The retractable mic isn’t the greatest, but it’s more than good enough for everyday communications, especially if you adjust it in the SteelSeries Engine software.
You can also make use of active noise cancellation to fully immerse yourself in your games or utilize transparency mode if you want to be able to hear what’s going on around you while you play.
It’s certainly one of the most expensive options on our list, coming in at $350 when not on sale. But if you want great audio quality and a ton of control, that price is well worth it. Our sister site, PCMag, covers the strengths of the Arctis Nova Pro in great detail, so be sure to check out their review if you want to learn more.
You can purchase the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless from Amazon for $349.99.
Astro A50 X
Credit: Logitech
These headphones are another expensive option, but they’re among the best that you can get at the moment, thanks to support for multiple connections and great wireless capability. The Astro A50 X typically retails for $379.99, and while you can can sometimes grab it on sale, this is definitely a headset you buy for the unique style and features.
I’ve always been a pretty big fan of Astro’s audio quality, and the A50 X continues to deliver on that promise. The set even offers Dolby Atmos to help provide more immersive sound. One thing that sets the A50 X apart from other headsets is the built-in HDMI switch, which allows you to easily swap between PlayStation or Xbox, which great if you frequently jump between platforms.
Of course, this is an expensive headset, and that price may be a bit of a turn off. It also doesn’t sport any of the features I really love about the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro, like that hot-swappable battery. But if you switch between consoles often, the audio and mic quality here is top-tier, and delivers on everything you’d expect from such an expensive gaming headset.
You can purchase the Astro A50 X from Logitech for $379.99. The stock seems to fluctuate, so you might have to check back often to find it in stock and available for purchase.
Astro Gaming A10
Credit: Logitech
If you want a great-sounding gaming headset but don’t feel like shelling out for the more expensive options we’ve already listed, then I’d like to direct your attention to the Astro Gaming A10. This second-generation gaming headset delivers on Astro’s excellent audio quality but for a fraction of the cost of the company’s more expensive headset options. These bad boys come in at just $59.99.
That low price makes it an excellent buy, especially when you consider the built-in flip-to-mute microphone and the diverse support it offers for devices. There are different variants for PlayStation and Xbox gaming, so you’ll want to be sure to purchase the version that fits your console needs.
As I noted above, this headset offers great audio quality with a really comfortable and lightweight design. It is wired, though, so if you want wireless, you’ll need to look for a different option. Still, for under $60 (sometimes even cheaper on sale) the Astro Gaming A10 is a great option for anyone that wants solid audio quality and a comfortable design that can be worn for hours.
You can learn more about the Astro A10 Gaming headset from PCMag’s review, or purchase them directly from Amazon for $59.99.
Audeze Penrose
Credit: Audeze
To round off our list, I wanted to highlight something specific for those who care about audio quality above all else. While the other headsets I’ve highlighted come with great audio quality, those who want the level of quality expected by true audiophiles will find themselves more at home in a pair of the Audeze Penrose.
This low-latency wireless gaming headset is a perfect match for audiophiles who love to play video games, and it can often be found for $50 to $100 off of its standard $299.99 retail price. Sure, it’s yet another expensive option, but if you really want to get the most out of your gaming audio, it’s worth having something like the Audeze Penrose sitting at your gaming station.
This headset supports simultaneous connection for Bluetooth and low-latency wireless connections, allowing you to chat with your friends on your phone while still playing your console games. There are variations for Xbox and PlayStation, though, so you’ll want to purchase whichever one makes the most sense for you.
You can buy the Audeze Penrose for $299.99 on Amazon. Though, like I said, it’s often available for cheaper than that with sales and coupons.
Check out all of my recommendations below:
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless: $349.99
Astro A50 X: $379.99
Astro A10 Gaming headset: $59.99
Audeze Penrose: $299.99
