The best Xbox Series X headset in 2024

Microsoft players need to take special notice of the best Xbox Series X headsets. Unlike their PlayStation counterparts, the wireless limitations of the Xbox console means you'll need to pick up a tailor made device for the best cable-free audio on Microsoft's console. Even if you're after a wired Xbox Series X headset, though, you'll want to make sure you're making the most of the console's Dolby audio all while ensuring quality comfort, build materials, and additional features. 

All of that means that the best Xbox Series X headsets can reach around $350 / £350 - but the vast majority of players simply don't need the luxurious features on offer in these high-end devices. Instead, you're looking for strong audio quality (and you'll find that recent releases can far outperform even last year's models at lower prices), a solid microphone that keeps your voice clear, long-lasting comfort, and a battery life that can take a beating. The best gaming headset will offer all this at a price that suits you.

We've put the latest releases through weeks of testing, living and playing with each device for an extended period of time, to find the models worthy of your cash. After all that, the best Xbox Series X headset is the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro in our opinion - but this pricey beast won't satisfy everyone. You'll find all our top recommendations across the price range just below, with the best value products for every budget. 

The quick list

The best Xbox Series X headset overall

The best Xbox Series X headset overall

Specifications

Connection: 2.4GHz / Bluetooth wireless, wired
Drivers: 40mm Neodymium
Frequency response: 10Hz - 40kHz
Microphone: Retractable bi-directional
ANC: Yes
Controls: Power, mic mute, Bluetooth
Battery: 22 hours per battery
Weight: 294g
Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Mac, PlayStation, Switch

Reasons to buy

+
Outstanding audio quality
+
DAC allows for considerable EQ customisation
+
Comfortable
+
Also works with PC and PlayStation

Reasons to avoid

-
Mic is not retract-to-mute
-
Questionable earphone cup material longevity
-
Expensive compared to other wired set

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro for Xbox is easily one of the best wired Xbox Series X headsets going, and one of the best wired sets overall that we’ve ever used. 

Buy it if:

✅ You want to invest: This is one of the more expensive wired Xbox Series X headsets on the market right now, so it's one for those looking to invest in seriously high-end audio.
✅ You play open world games:
The wide sound scape and excellent detailing makes playing larger open world games particularly immersive.
A wireless connection isn't a priority: There is a wireless Nova Pro option available for Xbox, with a boosted price tag. If you don't need that kind of connectivity, though, you might as well save your cash here. 

Don't buy it if:

❌ You don't play across multiple platforms: Being able to bounce between Xbox, PC, and PS5 quickly is an excellent feature but if you won't make the most of it the higher price might not make sense.
You don't want to tinker with EQ settings: The EQ settings available directly on the hub are perfect for tinkerers, but again you're spending cash on these kinds of extra features. If you won't use it there's better value elsewhere. 

Design: The lightweight gamer-industrial design aesthetic keeps the size and weight down, making it comfortable to wear but still feeling like there’s some sturdiness to it so I don’t have to worry about the cat or one of the kids accidentally sitting on it. The only drawback is the ear cushion material; it’s a form of leatherette - and in my experience with other headsets, that tends to split or degrade after a while, especially in hot conditions or very heavy use.

Features: The Digital-To-Analogue (DAC) unit with the unit offers highly customisable EQ adjustment, letting you get the sound just how you like it, and the audio quality in stereo and surround mode is just superb across the board, whether it’s in action-packed action/shooting games, engaging RPGs, thoughtful adventure titles, or enjoying streaming content from the internet. 

The icing on the cake is compatibility with other systems including PC and PlayStation 5; you can literally have it plugged into an Xbox and something else at the same time and switch between the two systems without having to take off the headset. The fact the decent microphone isn’t retract-to-mute is a missed opportunity, and the need to have a cable running to the DAC and then to the Xbox also means you’ve got something else to potentially get in the way (or trip over) during a gaming session.

Audio: The Nova Pro stood out in our testing, offering a rich depth and astounding quality to sound in both stereo and surround sound, with a deep bass to accompany extremely clear mids and high ranges. Between Sniper Elite 5 and Doom Eternal's powerful explosions and the ambient rainfall of Ghost of Tsushima, the Nova Pros seemed to be able to do it all. We did notice that the overall quality was a little reduced when switching from Xbox Series X to PlayStation, but still well worth the cash if  you're splitting your time between the two consoles. PC games had no problem holding up to the same kind of experience we had on Xbox, though. 

Verdict: The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro for Xbox carries a very high price ($279.99/£249.99) which easily makes it one of the most expensive mainstream wired gaming headsets going right now. Still, you're paying for one of the best Xbox Series X headsets if you're after extra functionality and an amazing audio experience. So if you’ve got the budget and don’t mind the wired setup, this represents an outstanding and highly recommended option.

Read more: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro for Xbox review

The best value Xbox Series X headset

Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset

(Image credit: Microsoft)
The best value Xbox Series X headset

Specifications

Connection: Bluetooth 4.2
Drivers: 40mm
Frequency response: 20Hz - 20kHz
Microphone: Dual mic boom
ANC: No
Controls: Power / pairing, mute, chat mix, volume
Battery: 15 hours
Weight: 312g
Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, mobile

Reasons to buy

+
Bass and surround sound excel
+
Excellent value for money
+
Multiplayer mic is nice and clear

Reasons to avoid

-
Mic monitoring is a little weak
-
It's a bit small for larger heads

The official Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset offers exceptional value with its low $99/£89 price tag. Quite simply, we can't find a better wireless contender for best Xbox Series X headset for such a low price.

Buy it if:

✅ You solely play Xbox: The wireless connection here is designed to be used with Xbox consoles, and without a 3.5mm jack you'll be pressed to use this with other devices.
✅ A wireless connection is top priority:
Xbox is notoriously finicky with its wireless connections, but the benefit of having Microsoft's own device means you're getting a crystal clear connection every time.
✅ You have a $100 budget:
It's difficult to find a headset this good for under $100. If you're budget sits firmly in two figures, this is your best bet.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You have a larger head: The form factor is a little more compact than we were expecting, so if you have a larger head you may feel some pinching from the headband over longer sessions.
❌ You play across platforms a lot: 
If you need an all-in-one headset for a range of platforms, you'll find better value in a device geared to easily connect with PlayStation and Switch. 

Design: Microsoft's model is super comfortable, although it's a bit on the small side if you have a larger head. That aesthetic calls to the console itself, with a subtle black design and a hint of green circling the outer rim of each cup. These plates are actually your controls, offering a rotating dial for volume and mic chat balance on either side. We were initially concerned that these dials would be accidentally nudged during gameplay, but the level of sensitivity is on point - there's just enough resistance behind each wheel to keep things accurate. 

Features: Considering the $99.99 / £89.99 MSRP there's plenty of features baked in here. Aside from the bountiful controls on the headset itself, you've got dual connectivity with your phone, a direct wireless connection to the Xbox, and built in Xbox software for equalizer settings and sidetone. The mic is nice and crisp and can be tucked away around the earcup when not in use. Chat clarity and the extremely stable wireless connection to your Xbox puts a lot of Razer's more expensive headsets to shame and is giving Turtle Beach something to sweat over too. Thanks to backwards compatibility, the Wireless Headset is also one of the best Xbox One accessories on the market as well. 

There are a few omissions from this feature list. There's no 3.5mm jack for a wired experience here, which means you're limited in terms of compatibility and should the battery run out. That's a real concern, as well, as there's only 15 hours of charge baked in here - solid for the price considering everything else, but falling behind others. 

Audio: The soundscape is so good we use it over our middling TVs' audio even when we have the place to ourselves. The bass is powerful despite only using 40mm drivers and the surround sound is way better than it should be for a headset this cheap. We love that the outside of the earcups rotate to adjust volume and game/chat balance too. 

Verdict: The Xbox Wireless Headset surprised us all when it launched at such a low price alongside the Series X console in 2020. We were even more impressed after putting it through its paces in the test room. With high quality audio, built in wireless for Xbox, and a comfortable form factor this is fantastic value that will see the majority of players through at a great price. 

Read more: Xbox Wireless Headset review

The best budget Xbox Series X headset

The best budget Xbox Series X headset

Specifications

Connection: Wired
Drivers: 50mm
Frequency response: 20Hz - 20kHz
Microphone: Uni-directional
ANC: No
Controls: Mic mute, volume
Battery: NA
Weight: 249g
Compatibility: PC, PS4, Xbox, Switch, Mac, Mobile

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent value for money
+
Decent sound
+
Nice and clear mic

Reasons to avoid

-
Lacks features and extras
-
Only stereo sound

Taking advantage of the audio jack connection again, and offering a solid budget choice to get you going with your new Xbox console, the Corsair HS35 is the best Xbox Series X headset for less than $50/£50 or so right now. 

Buy it if:

✅ You mostly play single player games: Solo adventurers will have a better time with this headset than those after super precise directional sound for competitive titles.
✅ You also play on other platforms: 
That easy 3.5mm connection means the HS35 is ready to play nicely with other systems straight out of the box.
✅ You don't mind a wired connection:
You're saving some considerable cash by opting for a wired connection, so if you don't mind a cable dangling around you're in for a treat here.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You rely on directional audio: With only stereo sound at your disposal, you won't be relying on the HS35 for precise directional cues.
❌ You value more premium sound: 
If you're after a particularly wide soundstage, or finer handling of more ambient details you might need to invest further up the price scale. 

Design: This is a thoughtfully designed piece of kit, with a sturdy yet comfortable build and some impressive audio qualities, all in one very affordable package. We loved the memory foam ear-cups and a comfy headband, making the Corsair HS35 perfectly comfortable for long periods of play during our testing. Its design is also robust enough to withstand being pulled on and off your head with a carefree attitude and survive the odd bump or two. We never noticed any scuffs or scratches from everyday use here. 

Features: Considering its low price, it's no surprise that the HS35 is slim on features. You're getting the essentials, though, with a Discord-certified mic (noise cancelling and all), a 3.5mm connection for use with a range of platforms, and controls for volume and mic mute on the left cup. This far down the price range, we wouldn't expect to see much else, but this feature set keeps you covered for flexible play across a range of consoles, not just Xbox Series X. 

Audio: The audio won't win sky-high awards, but it's on a par with most mid-range headsets and manages some snappy treble. We were particularly impressed by the punchy treatment given to our weapons in Wolfenstein Youngblood, with rich tones and excellent feedback to every action. There are certainly headsets in this price range falling well short of Corsair's audio capacities, so you're getting some strong value for money here. 

Verdict: If you're after solid Xbox Series X audio that won't break the bank, you've found it in the Corsair HS35. You're getting all the basics you need, with a mic that can still hold up to today's chat expectations and a comfortable design for longer sessions as well. 

Read more: Corsair HS35 review

The best wireless Xbox Series X headset

The best wireless Xbox Series X headset

Specifications

Connection: 2.4GHz / Bluetooth / wired
Drivers: SteelSeries Premium High Fidelity Drivers
Frequency response: 10Hz - 22kHz
Microphone: ClearCast Gen 2 - Fully Retractable Boom; Bidirectional Noise-Canceling
ANC: Yes
Controls: Power, mic mute, Bluetooth
Battery: 22 hours per battery
Weight: 337g
Compatibility: PC, PlayStation

Reasons to buy

+
Incredible SteelSeries audio quality
+
Awesome DAC / hub with great options
+
Superb build quality and design
+
Excellent connectivity options
+
Ingenious battery solution 

Reasons to avoid

-
One of the most expensive premium headsets going

The Xbox version of the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro is our absolute favorite for the system overall, but if you want to cut the cord the wireless model should really be at the top of your shopping list. It's a little pricier, but with a hub DAC system and hot-swappable batteries like this, it's well worth the jump. 

Buy it if

✅ You swap between PC and Xbox: If you've got both your PC and Xbox in the same setup you're going to get even better value from that easy dual-connection hub. 

✅ You don't want to plug in: Forget wiring another cable into your setup, the hot-swappable batteries in the cup  mean you won't need to plug in at all. 

✅ You play open world games: The wider sound stage and excellent detailing on offer here lend themselves particularly well to open world gameplay. 

Don't buy it if

❌ You only play on Xbox: We'd recommend looking into the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X if you only play on Xbox - you're dropping some of the cooler features, but not spending on extra dual-connection options you won't use. 

❌ You don't want to tinker with EQ settings: We did need to fiddle with the settings to get the right sound from these cups - it was well worth the job, but if you don't want to tweak the graph it might be worth looking elsewhere. 

Design: The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless sits inline with the rest of the range, but does so with more premium materials. This is the same show as the wired model above, with a sturdier plastic shell compared to cheaper Arctis Nova options and a more durable feel overall. You're still getting that classic ski-style headband floating just below the main bridge, as well as plenty of adjustment and super comfortable pads on each side as well. This wireless model is heavier than the wired option further up the page, adding around 40g to the final product. 

Features: Not only do you get additional wireless-specific features here, but you're also picking up active noise cancellation to boot. It's the extras built into the wireless experience that we're particularly excited about here, though. Hot-swappable battery packs can be removed from the right earcup and thrown in the hub to charge up, and with two in the box you can simply swap and change as needed without ever plugging in. That's a fantastic quality of life enhancement. Since the release of SteelSeries' model, the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro has done something similar - but you're getting a far larger battery here. 

That base station provides you with quick access to all your EQ settings, as well as connecting you to a separate PC as well. You can quickly switch your audio between devices (though note that, unlike the Astro A50 X above there's no video switching here to match). 

Audio: Onto that sound. The wireless Arctis Nova Pro performs pretty similarly to the wired model, save for the extra immersion on offer from that active noise cancellation. That means you're getting a crystal clear soundscape with a depth that we found lent itself particularly well to open world games. Details in these environments are beautifully balanced, while still managing to leave space for a powerful bassline as well. 

Verdict: The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is actually our favorite gaming headset on the market right now. Solo Xbox players will get better value for money out of the wired only model overall, but if you're after an investment piece and those cords just won't cut it this is where you need to be looking. 

Read more: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless review

The best multiplatform Xbox Series X headset

The best multiplatform Xbox Series X headset

Specifications

Connection: 2.4Ghz / Bluetooth
Drivers: Graphene 40mm
Frequency response: 20Hz - 20kHz
Microphone: Omnidirectional flip
ANC: No
Controls: Power, HDMI switch, Bluetooth, volume, chat mix
Battery: 24 hours
Weight: 363g
Compatibility: PC, PS5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch (limited), mobile (limited)

Reasons to buy

+
Fantastic compatibility
+
HDMI switcher features
+
Robust, detailed sound quality
+
Powerful microphone
+
Super comfortable design

Reasons to avoid

-
Bluetooth limited to base station
-
Requires an all-in-one setup

The Astro A50 X has an ace up its sleeve; its base station now functions as an HDMI switcher. That's a nifty workaround for long-standing Xbox wireless woes, allowing for quick swapping between Xbox Series X and PS5 with just the touch of a button. With Bluetooth and PC also accounted for, this is a true multiplatform device - though if you're travelling with a handheld you might need to look at something else. 

Buy it if:

✅ You play Xbox and PS5 in the same setup: While compatible with a range of systems, the Astro A50 X works best when it's sandwiched between an Xbox and PlayStation within the same setup.

✅ You only play with audio at home: The Bluetooth being limited to the base station means you'll get the best value out of this device if you only play at home. 

✅ You regularly swap between consoles: This tech is going to be make the biggest splash if you're constantly getting up to swap your consoles.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want to play on the go with handhelds: Those looking to travel with a Switch or handheld when not hooked up to an Xbox will need to find another option. 

❌ You need ANC: The Astro A50 X doesn't offer active noise cancellation features, unlike many other Xbox Series X headsets in this price range. 

Design: The Astro A50 X is still very much an Astro headset. The angular headset slots neatly into a geometric base station, with harsh lines contrasting against softer contours throughout. The actual construction is primarily plastic, but this still feels like a sturdy device in-hand, even down to the particularly flexible swivel to each cup.  There's plenty of room for adjustment in this fit, with a wide range of heights to the headband and full rotation of each side to ensure a snug fit against the head without pinching the ears. All the controls are also easily reachable, though the chat mix switch positioned across the entire right side is a target for accidental presses. 

Features: The HDMI functionality of that base station is the real star of the show here. The dock itself takes HDMI 2.1 input from both an Xbox Series X and PS5 and channels the audio section straight to your headphones. That means you're left with an interrupted 4K 120Hz video feed and the ability to swap both audio and video feeds with just the press of a button. That makes this a must-see for anyone who regularly plays Xbox Series X alongside PS5. However, there are some drawbacks. If you have a PC set up in a different location you'll be moving the entire base station back and forth as and when you want to connect, and with Bluetooth limited to the dock rather than being built straight into the headset, Switch and other handhelds are limited to home use. 

This is the best audio I've personally heard through a gaming headset yet

Astro A50 X review

Performance: If it weren't for those Bluetooth hiccups, the Astro A50 X would be at the top of its game just from an audio standpoint. This is a supremely well tuned set of graphene drivers, offering incredible balancing across the soundstage and powerful audio at all ranges. That's impressive considering the bass can be particularly powerful when it wants to be - but we were still able to pull out small details in even the heaviest of game soundtracks with these on the noggin. It's a bass-forward sound profile, but there's still a massive space for detailing in the higher ranges, making this a strong split overall. 

Verdict: If you've got the setup to get your money's worth out of that HDMI switching functionality, the Astro A50 X is a go-to for anyone looking to invest in an Xbox Series X headset that can serve PS5 play just as well. 

Read more: Astro A50 X review

The best surround sound Xbox Series X headset

The best Xbox Series X headset for surround sound

Specifications

Connection: 2.4GHz / Bluetooth 5.0
Drivers: Razer TriForce Titanium 50mm
Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
Microphone: Unidirectional
ANC: None
Controls: Volume, chat mix, mic mute, power
Battery life: up to 15 hours
Weight: 0.73lbs (330g)
Compatibility: Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, mobile

Reasons to buy

+
Fantastic surround sound
+
Adjustable profiles
+
Game/chat balancer

Reasons to avoid

-
Mic doesn't impress as much as it should

The Razer Kaira Pro for Xbox was one of the first Xbox Series X headsets we tested after the new generation console launched. While there are some teething problems in a headset released this close to its console, the directional audio and surround sound still holds up today. 

Buy it if:

✅ You value immersive surround sound: The surround sound in the Kaira Pros blew us away in testing, so if you're after extra immersion we'd recommend starting here.
✅ You mostly play single player games:
The microphone holds the Kaira Pro back from being a true competitive monster, but if you're looking for more immersion in your solo adventures you'll find excellent value here.
✅ You want plenty of connectivity options:
With both 2.4GHz and a Bluetooth connection you can hook up your phone separately to your console and choose between a range of platforms when the Xbox is off. 

Don't buy it if:

❌ You regularly play online with chat: The microphone underwhelmed in our testing, so while that surround sound is top notch, it's going to be best serving solo players.
❌ You prefer a more subtle aesthetic:
The splash of Xbox green across this matte black surface isn't going to be for everyone. If you prefer a more streamlined design, there are other options out there. 

Design: The Razer Kaira Pro keeps that Xbox themed aesthetic, pairing a bright green with matte black across its streamlined form factor. This isn't a massive headset, but it still manages to feel premium in the hand, while not weighing too much on the head. The plastic casing doesn't quite live up to that luxurious feel as much as the aluminium or steel you'll find on other devices, but that slick Razer design is still as impressive as ever. 

Features: Because it's an Xbox Series X headset designed to serve every tier of the Xbox experience, the Razer Kaira Pro puts ease-of-use at the forefront. Powered by wireless and Bluetooth 5.0 connections, it's flexible and easy to swap between your Series X or your cell phone. The addition of downloadable software and an onboard game sound/chat balancer rounds out what is already a tempting package. Indeed, the former allows players to tweak their audio experience to taste or get straight into the action with pre-set profiles.

Audio: The audio experience doesn't suffer for it, though. Because the Pro is fitted with Razer Triforce titanium 50mm drivers, you're getting a wider breadth of sound in the high, mid, and low ranges. Plus, the surround sound that accompanies them is absolutely convincing - it sells a sense of place in a way no TV speaker could.

We did notice some odd crackling in our testing, though very rarely - and with no clear cause. That, and the fact that we were ever so underwhelmed by the quality of the mic, means that the Razer Kaira Pro just falls short of a perfect score. 

Verdict: The Razer Kaira Pro for Xbox launched just after the Series X itself, but it's stood the test of time. Anyone after a highly directional experience with a robust surround sound should be checking this one out. 

Read more: Razer Kaira Pro for Xbox review


Xbox Series X headsets FAQ

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro for Xbox gaming headset

(Image credit: Future/Royce Wilson)

What is the best Xbox Series X headset?

After all our testing, the best Xbox Series X headset remains the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro. However, that's a particularly pricey piece of kit. If you're on the hunt for something a little more affordable, the official Xbox Wireless Headset is the best for most players. 

Do Xbox One headsets work on Series X?

The great, short answer here is an emphatic 'yes'! This was one of the first things confirmed before the launch of the current-gen consoles, and was a joy to hear as that mean that every peripheral owned by Xbox One players could just be seamlessly transferred over to the Series X or Series S console. 

While this does mean that your older Xbox One headset will work beautifully on the new console, we still recommend perusing our best Xbox Series X headset guide, as some of the newer entries represent genuine audio upgrades from the older sets and can take your gaming enjoyment to another level.

Which wireless headsets work on Xbox Series X?

There are a bunch of cord-free entrants in our best Xbox Series X headset list, but it's not as easy to find an Xbox Series X wireless headset as it is for other platforms. That's because Microsoft's console uses a proprietary wireless technology that just doesn't play nice with other devices. Thankfully, many brands release Xbox versions of their latest headsets to make sure everyone is well catered for. 

The best example of this is the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless. While we reviewed the PlayStation version, you can find an Xbox alternative up for grabs. The Razer Kaira line also offers wireless Xbox support, as does the Turtle Beach Stealth range.

How we test Xbox Series X headsets

Why you can trust GamesRadar+ Our experts review games, movies and tech over countless hours, so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about our reviews policy.

We test all the biggest Xbox Series X headsets to hit the shelves to make sure we're recommending the very best devices on the market. That also means we keep all the headsets we test in a rotating roster well after we've published our final reviews so that we can continue to compare with new releases and ensure our guidance is up to date. During each testing process, each device is run through a series of audio tests across a range of different genres on Xbox Series X and PC. We also use these headsets as our daily drivers wherever they're compatible, across other platforms and in everyday work settings. For more information on how we test gaming headsets, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy

If you're outside Microsoft's camp, we're also rounding up all the best PS5 headsets on the market, as well as the best PC headsets and best Nintendo Switch headsets to boot.

Tabitha Baker
Managing Editor - Hardware

Managing Editor of Hardware at GamesRadar+, I originally landed in hardware at our sister site TechRadar before moving over to GamesRadar. In between, I've written for Tom’s Guide, Wireframe, The Indie Game Website and That Video Game Blog, covering everything from the PS5 launch to the Apple Pencil. Now, i'm focused on Nintendo Switch, gaming laptops (and the keyboards and mice that come with them), and tracking everything that suggests VR is about to take over our lives.

With contributions from