Best Razer headsets 2024: the top sets compared

The best Razer headsets can offer both comfort and excellent audio quality, with a no-fuss setup, some solid software support, and that classic luxury finish. Razer has been producing gaming headsets since 2006 with the birth of the original Barracuda. Since then, the brand has been developing on its early wins in surround sound to produce a massive range of earcups, across BlackShark, Kraken, Kaira, and Nari lines.

We've put all the latest Razer headsets to the test - living, working, and playing with each set of cups in order to rank our favorites for a variety of use-cases. We're not just listing the highest quality, most expensive cups on the market here, though. In order to get the best value for money possible, we're going all over the price range. That means you'll find our top budget and mid-range picks in here as well. 

Razer produces some of the best gaming headsets on the market, whatever platform you're looking for, with a long and storied history in the industry. There's plenty of pedigree in this name, but not all releases are winners. You'll find the cups that are worth your time below. 

The quick list

The best Razer headset overall

The best Razer headset overall

Specifications

Connection: 2.4Ghz, Bluetooth 5.2
Drivers: 50mm Razer TriForce Titanium
Frequency response: 12hz - 28kHz
Microphone: Unidrectional Razer HyperClear Super Wideband with 32kHz sampling rate
ANC: None
Controls: Volume, mic mute power, profile/Bluetooth
Battery: Up to 70 hours
Weight: 320g
Compatibility: PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, mobile

Reasons to buy

+
Truly excellent audio
+
Extraordinary microphone
+
Great design and lightweight build
+
Long battery life
+
Onboard profiles

Reasons to avoid

-
Some tiny slippage from the earcup / headband
-
No Xbox compatibility
-
No built in mic

The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro had a hefty refresh in 2023, and is now the best Razer headset on the market. While the version we tested is locked to PS5 and PC use, the standout microphone, long-lasting battery life, and excellent comfort makes this a must-see for anyone playing competitively.

Buy it if

✅ You regularly play online with chat: The microphone on offer here is class leading - if you're regularly on comms this mic is enough to carry the BlackShark V2 Pro by itself. 

✅ You play PS5 / PC: This is primarily designed for PC and PS5, so if you're setup complies you're all sorted. Xbox players will get audio out of here, but it's not the most compatible. 

✅ You play competitively: That microphone, as well as the directional audio on offer, makes the BlackShark V2 Pro particularly impressive in a competitive arena. It's also got the battery life to see it through longer sessions and super low latencies. 

Don't buy it if:

❌ You need headphones for commuting: If you want your headset to double up as a commuting companion, we'd recommend picking up something with active noise cancellation. 

Build quality isn't a priority: The BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed is a cheaper alternative that launched onto the shelves at the end of 2023. You're getting the same audio drivers and that super crisp mic but for far less cash by sacrificing that luxury feel. 

Design: The classic BlackShark aesthetic is maintained here, with a matte black finish to the helicopter pilot style form factor. Still, with memory foam cushions and a lighter weight, this is a particularly comfortable headset. We did notice the steel headband slipping slightly when first put on, but it stayed nicely in place during actual gameplay. 

Features: We'll kick off with the biggest feature here - that microphone. Razer has doubled the sampler rate from 16kHz to 32 in this year's refresh, which means a rich, velvety voice quality and super clear comms. Our teammates were incredibly impressed by the results, commenting that the mic itself was podcast worthy and it sounded like we were actually in the room with them. That's high praise, and solidified by our own listening to recordings - making this the best mic we've tested on a gaming headset yet.

You'll be doing all that for up to 70 hours at a time as well, thanks to that boosted battery life. Perhaps our favorite element of this audio, though, is that Synapse EQ settings can be stored on the headset's onboard memory. That means you can keep your presets for PS5 as well as PC - a true rarity. 

Audio: The BlackShark V2 Pro also excels when it comes to audio quality. These cups deftly handle everything from more competitive shooters (and all the directional audio they require) to older atmospheric single player experiences. This is a luxury audio quality, with punchy gunfire, a wide soundstage for spookier echoes and creaks, and plenty of attention paid to locating enemies. 

Verdict: The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is an all-in-one powerhouse. It's compatible with Xbox as well as PC and PlayStation, but the latter players are going to get the most out of this device. Between a stunning microphone and fantastic audio quality this is as good as Razer headsets get right now. 

Read more: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro review

The best Razer headset for most players

The best Razer headset for most

Specifications

Connection: 2.4GHz / Bluetooth / Wired
Drivers: Razer TriForce Titanium 50mm
Frequency response: 12Hz - 28kHz
Microphone: Razer HyperClear Super Wideband Unidirectional
ANC: No
Controls: Power, volume, playback, profile / Bluetooth smartswitch, mic mute
Battery: Up to 70 hours
Weight: 280g
Compatibility: PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, mobile

Reasons to buy

+
Same audio and mic experience as Pro model
+
Lightweight form factor
+
Handy volume dial size and placement
+
Can plug in for a wired connection

Reasons to avoid

-
Leatherette material is less durable and comfortable
-
Non-detachable microphone

The Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed is the most recent in the BlackShark line, and it essentially takes everything great about the Pro model above but drops a few build quality features to save players cash. You're getting the same audio and mic experience here, for a $129.99 MSRP we rarely see on Razer headsets of this quality. 

Buy it if:

✅ You prioritize high quality audio: If you're after audio quality that doesn't sink the bank account, this is where you need to be looking. We don't usually see these Razer drivers in headsets this cheap. 

✅ You play online multiplayer with chat: The microphone in here is the same as the V2 Pro above, which makes it super crisp and incredibly clear. That makes it a must-see for anyone who plays with chat. 

✅ You primarily play on PC but split time with consoles: The Hyperspeed model feels most at home on PC, because of that USB-A connection. You'll still be able to play across PlayStation as well, though. 

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want a premium finish: If you're all about the feel of your headset, it might be worth jumping up the price scale a little for the Pro model above. The Hyperspeed sacrifices its materials to hit a lower price point. 

❌ You regularly take your headset on the road: The Hyperspeed model doesn't have a particularly portable form factor, so if you're travelling regularly with your headset we'd recommend something with swivel cups. 

Design: At first sight, this could easily be the Pro model as well. The Hyperspeed carries the same silhouette as the more expensive device, with the helicopter style design, oval cups, and steel adjustment sliders. However, where the Pro version offers quality breathable mesh cup materials, the Hyperspeed opts for leatherette. Not only is that a little less packed in its lining, but temperatures can climb for a less comfortable experience and leatherette itself is known for flaking with time. This is still a comfortable Razer headset - we were able to play for hours at a time with no pinching or headband fatigue. However, the plastics are considerably cheaper than the Pro version, with a hollow feel and some splitting around the cup itself. 

Features: For the cash, though the Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed packs some surprising features. You're getting both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth wireless capabilities but also the option to wire directly into your PC if you run out of battery. That's impressive considering a wired connection isn't available even on the Pro model.

Audio: Razer has tricked out the Hyperspeed model with the same TriForce Titanium 50mm drivers as its more expensive release, and the same turbo charged microphone as well. That means soundscapes are crisp and detailed with well defined balances across the entire range and some impressive power in mids and low ranges.

Verdict: With an astounding audio and mic quality for the price, and plenty of extra quality of life features, all at just $129.99 the Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed is the best Razer headset for most players. Yes, this is limited to PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and PC players, but that's still a solid list of platform options. 

Read more: Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed review

The best budget Razer headset

The best budget Razer headset

Specifications

Acoustic design: Closed Back
Cable length: 1.3m
Drivers: 50mm
Weight: 322g
Compatibility: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Mac, mobile

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight and comfortable
+
Beefy bass
+
MIc is great for voice chat

Reasons to avoid

-
Mid tones are lacking

There's a reason the Razer Kraken is the latest iteration of Razer's famous and popular headset. It offers great sound at great value, and can be used across a wide variety of devices.

Buy it if:

You want a simple plug and play headset: The wired connection on offer here means the Razer Kraken isn't vulnerable to low latencies or connection drops. You also won't have to worry about keeping that battery topped up either.

You play across a range of platforms: The simple connection also means the Kraken is an excellent option for anyone playing across PS5 and Xbox Series X. A wireless headset capable of running on both devices is significantly more expensive, whereas one cable does the job affordably here.

You want to stay under three figures: The Razer Kraken can be found particularly cheap these days - far away from any kind of three figure budget. 

Don't buy it if:

You want the last word in audio: The Kraken isn't going to out-perform more expensive Razer headsets in the audio department. If you're happy to spend a little more to pick up a more sophisticated driver system, it's well worth the jump.  

You need extra customization features: If you're looking to make the most of Synapse and various preset customization options, we'd recommend picking up a newer Razer headset. 

Design: This popular Razer headset is lightweight and despite the large earcups, you can wear them comfortably for long gaming sessions. The aesthetic is very Kraken, inline with the rest of the range and instantly recognizable. This is, and always has been, a solid piece of kit you can rely on - excellent considering its low price point. Not only that, but the headband has far more padding than we've seen in previous iterations. 

Features: The fully retractable, unidirectional microphone allows for clear voice chat, while a small set of inline cable controls handle volume and mic mute options. That's pretty much it for features, though. There's no chat mix option and this is a strictly wired affair. 

Audio: The Razer Kraken performs admirably in the heat of battle. Yes, the mid-range is a little muddy but the lower ranges certainly pack a punch. Not only that but there's an impressive surround sound on offer here, considering both the age and low price point. Wolfenstein and Doom both run beautifully in this soundstage, allowing for precise enemy location and maximum bass in the soundtrack. That directional audio was also translated to more competitive affairs in our testing across Apex Legends as well. 

Verdict: If you're looking for a Razer headset under £100/ $100 that still performs, this is it. There's even a stripped back version of the Kraken called the Kraken X which keeps a lot of what is good about the headset, slightly repackaged into a cheaper pair.

Read more: Razer Kraken review

The best Razer headset for PS5

The best Razer headset for PS5

Specifications

Acoustic design: Closed Back, over ear
Drivers: 50mm Razer TriForce
Weight: 365g
Compatibility: PS4, PS5, PC, Mobile

Reasons to buy

+
Great audio quality
+
Very comfortable
+
Haptics are excellent
+
Solid design

Reasons to avoid

-
Mic is a bit tinny and thin

If you're looking for the best Razer headset for PS5 to pair with your new-gen console, then the Razer Kaira Pro for PlayStation is the easiest recommendation to make.

Buy it if

✅ Immersion is a top priority: The Hypersense haptics work in tandem with the DualSense's own rumble to provide a uniquely powerful sense of immersion here. 

✅ Wireless connection is a must: There are cheaper Razer headsets available with a wired connection, but if you don't want to juggle a cable around your controller this is your go-to.

✅ You need to reinvigorate a PS4 setup: If you haven't upgraded to PS5 yet, the good news is that the Razer Kaira Pro will still work the same on PS4. That's an excellent way to breathe new life into your old console. 

Don't buy it if

❌ You primarily play online with chat: The Kaira Pros can't distinguish between sound effects and chat in their haptic treatment. That means you'll generally be playing with feedback off when online - and there's no point in paying for a feature you won't use most of the time. 

❌ Haptics aren't important: Of course, if you're not fussed about haptic feedback at all, it's worth saving some cash. The Razer Kaira is available with a wireless connection for far less. 

Design: The headset shares a lot with the Kaira range generally that we saw rolled out for Xbox prior to the PlayStation range, and, as a result, looks similar, while maintaining a white and black colourway to match the console. On top of that there's a solid build quality here, with a metal ratchet to each side of the headband sliders. Our only gripe with the design was in the swing of the cups - they're a little looser than we've previously tested, and can swing pretty easily when picked up. 

Features: One of the biggest selling points to us, however, is the inclusion of Razer's newest haptic feedback tech. The inclusion of this blew us away in our testing and makes this Razer headset stand out as a set that will add and enhance immersion.

The haptics only requires the existence of audio frequency to work which is impressive, but we found the one drawback with this to be that your teammates and friends speaking to you will also set them off which is a little annoying - perhaps the next generation of haptics will be able to tell between in-game audio to enhance and chat audio to ignore. But when the haptics in the Kaira Pro teamed up with a DualSense, our gaming experience was taken to a different place and made for a truly exciting ride.

Audio: Of course, you can turn off the feature, in which case you'll 'just' be treated to the Kaira Pro's excellent audio quality that really does a brilliant job from the deepest of booms to the highest-pitch notes. We found that the mic could be better despite extensive testing with my friends saying I was a bit tinny and thin sounding, but this isn't too much of a detractor on what is an exceptional PS5 wireless headset.

Verdict: The Razer Kaira Pro is your PS5's best friend, there's no other Razer headset we'd rather have on the noggin. That's not just because of the slick Sony-inspired design. The haptic feedback running alongside the DualSense's own features is incredibly immersive and the audio itself is standout to boot. 

Read more: Razer Kaira Pro for PlayStation review

The best Razer headset for Xbox

The best Razer headset for Xbox

Specifications

Acoustic design: Closed back, over ear
Connection: Wireless
Drivers: Razer Triforce Titanium 50mm
Weight: 330g
Compatibility: Xbox, mobile

Reasons to buy

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

Reasons to avoid

-
Mic doesn't impress as much as it should
-
Software isn't well advertised

The Razer Kaira Pro for Xbox came out well before its PlayStation equivalent, so it hit that original console launch window a lot better. However, it still holds out today as the best Razer headset for Xbox Series X / S or even Xbox One players. Many of Razer's gaming headsets have targeted the Microsoft console directly, but this is the latest and greatest. 

Buy it if:

You want software support: Razer's Xbox software means you can tweak settings and keep those presets in check direct from your console with this particular headset. 

Comfort is a priority: The Razer Kaira Pro is a particularly comfortable Razer headset, with those Flowknit memory foam cushions and a cooling finish. 

You enjoy surround sound experiences: The surround sound on offer here is noticeably improved compared to previous Razer headsets. 

Don't buy it if:

Battery life is important: Compared to the rest of the competition, the Razer Kaira Pro's 15 hour battery life is a little low. 

You want to double up for commutes: If you want to take your gaming headset on the road, we'd recommend opting for something with active noise cancellation instead. 

Design: That Xbox black and green colorway immediately pit the Razer Kaira Pro in Microsoft's territory, but the matte black plastic and subtle green accents steer it away from a garish accessory. In the hand, we noted the premium feel of the materials used - especially the Flowknit memory foam cushioning. 

Features: We noted how flexibility between console and mobile gaming sits at the fore here. As an Xbox Series X headset, the Razer Kaira Pro has to satisfy both markets after all. That means the portable form factor, Bluetooth 5.0 connection options, and built-in microphone make this the perfect go-between for all your Game Pass needs. An onboard dial also handles chat mix balancing for you as well. Of course an additional detachable mic is also included for those hardcore console sessions. 

While it may not be obvious to anyone who hasn't used a Razer headset before, the Kaira Pro is also compatible with free Razer software direct on the Xbox itself. Here you can tweak your EQ settings and make use of preset profiles for certain genres. 

Audio: The actual audio is rich and well-rounded, with those 50mm drivers balancing lows, mids, and highs particularly well. Not only that, but the surround sound is also notably improved over previous direct-for-Xbox headsets. We were able to pinpoint attacks flying past us in Outriders and enjoyed the swirling winds of Destiny 2 in 3D. We did notice some odd crackles every so often during our testing, which may cause some concern for the longevity of that audio, though. 

Verdict: The Razer Kaira Pro caters for Xbox Series X players particularly well. A no nonsense wireless connection pairs with excellent audio and plenty of onboard features, this is a fantastic companion for your Game Pass adventures. 

Read more: Razer Kaira Pro for Xbox review

The best Razer headset for Nintendo Switch

The best Razer headset for Nintendo Switch

Specifications

Acoustic design: Closed back, over ear
Connection: Wireless
Drivers: 40mm Triforce
Weight: 250g
Compatibility: Nintendo Switch, PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, mobile

Reasons to buy

+
Subtle non-gamer aesthetic
+
Comfortable memory foam cushion
+
Breathable material
+
Low-latency Bluetooth mode
+
Virtual 7.1 surround sound on PC
+
Impressive sound quality
+
50+ hour battery life

Reasons to avoid

-
No Synapse support
-
Wired performance drops quality
-
No wireless connection on Xbox

The Razer Barracuda X is not just the best Razer headset for the Switch, but it's the best Nintendo Switch headset for most people overall as well. That's because of its simple plug and play design, and no-fuss audio quality. If you're after a portable set of cups that won't break the bank, this is certainly where you need to be looking. 

Buy it if

✅You play in handheld mode on the go: The ability to connect via either a USB-C 2.4GHz dongle or Bluetooth makes this a particularly versatile headset for play on the go. 

✅ Portability is a big factor for your commute: With a long battery life, and a swivel design accompanying that subtle aesthetic, this is a fantastic commuter's companion.

✅ EQ settings don't interest you: If you don't need additional audio customization options there's no point in paying for them. The Barracuda Xs do away with these extra features to provide a solid wireless connection and great audio for less. 

Don't buy it if

❌ Software support is important: Of course, if you do want to create your own audio profiles and tinker with those settings you'll want to grab a Razer headset with a more in-depth customization system. 

❌ You want to fall back on a wired connection: The Barracuda X can run off a wired connection, but it's not powered which means audio quality does suffer. 

Design: There are two Razer Barracuda X models floating around on the shelves right now and they look identical. Two oblong shaped cups extend from a plastic but still solid headband with a soft, plush material covering over each cushion. This is a subtle design, one to fit in across commutes, work, and gameplay just as well. The comfort and streamlined aesthetic work together to create a no nonsense effect. 

Features: Simplicity is the order of the day here. Simply slot the USB-C 2.4GHz receiver into the bottom of your handheld or slot it into the dock to use during big-screen play. This is a versatile headset that doesn't force EQ or RGB features into its price tag (though the former is still available via the Razer Audio app), it offers up excellent sound quality and a long battery life without any additional fuss. 

That means you're not spending any extra cash on features you won't want or use, making more room for high-end audio at a lower mid-range price point. 

Audio: The Barracuda X surprises in its audio prowess considering its price tag. There's an excellent audio quality here, with delicate balance between ranges and plenty of details available in the mids. Crunchier sounds of Doom Eternal will still felt with full power but they never overpowered the lighter tones in our testing, meanwhile the more subtle sounds of The Last of Us were still directionally audible. 

Verdict: The Razer Barracuda X handles the intricate melodies of Nintendo's titles and the flexibility needs of its on-the-go design particularly well. While compatible across PlayStation and PC as well, the Barracuda X feels most at home slung in a backpack with your hybrid console.

Read more: Razer Barracuda X 2022 review

The best Razer earbuds

The best Razer earbuds

Specifications

Battery life: RGB / ANC off: 6.5 hours + 26 hours in case
Connection: 2.4GHz / Bluetooth 5.2
Noise cancelling: Yes
Compatibility : PS5, PC, Nintendo Switch, mobile, (Xbox version available)
Mic: Omnidirectional

Reasons to buy

+
Premium aesthetic and feel
+
Low latency Hyperspeed connection
+
Dual Bluetooth and 2.4GHz
+
Wide soundstage with excellent balance
+
Particularly strong dialogue performance

Reasons to avoid

-
Tap gestures are too unreliable
-
Additional setup steps on PC

The Razer Hammerhead Hyperspeeds combine premium features like active noise cancellation, both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connections, and a relatively strong battery life compared to the rest of the gaming earbud market. That's all packaged in a fair $149.99 / £149.99 price tag - and considering these buds perform just as well for music as they do games, that's excellent value.

Buy it if

✅ Low latencies are a high priority: Both the 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connection options are super low latency here, which means your audio can keep up with your gameplay wherever you find yourself. 

✅ You value high quality game audio: The Hammerheads offer a super rich sound quality that's tough to find in other gaming earbuds. 

✅ You commute regularly: Active noise cancellation, a long battery life, and Bluetooth connectivity means the Hammerheads can easily blend in as a set of commuting earbuds. 

Don't buy it if

❌ You want to rely on tap gestures: For everything the Hammerhead Hyperspeeds get right, they don't have particularly strong tap gestures. We've never been able to get these controls working reliably.

❌ You're not concerned about aesthetics: The light gray steps and RGB lighting adorning each bud makes these a particularly flashy set of buds. That extra pzazz isn't for everyone though.

Design: With a luxury look and feel, complete with matte grey PlayStation-style charging case, these are some pretty buds. The stems are a little longer than you'll find on other earbuds (and we found the tap gestures to be a little hit and miss), but overall the build quality is excellent here. A small RGB logo on the side of each piece keeps things decidedly Razer as well. 

Features: The choice between 2.4GHz and Bluetooth means these are particularly versatile earbuds. Whether you choose the Xbox or the PlayStation version, you're covered for Nintendo Switch, iPhone, Android, and PC. Two low-latency connection modes ensure that you're always at your best. 

You've even got a suite of EQ and tap gesture settings controls, available in the Razer Audio app. While this isn't as in-depth as the full-fat Razer Synapse software, it's a handy tool for setting up the right soundstage. It is worth noting, however, that we found the tap gestures to be particularly unreliable in practice. 

Audio: If you'd prefer not to tinker there's good news as well. We found the audio quality to be particularly bold straight out of the box. Between rich dialogue and full-bodied soundtracks, there was plenty to love across everything from Pokemon on Switch to The Last of Us on PS5.

Verdict: The Razer Hammerhead Hyperspeeds manage to pack a serious punch despite their diminutive form factor. Between plenty of extra features and a fair price tag, they're the best Razer earbuds on the market right now. 

Read more: Razer Hammerhead Hyperspeed review

Best Razer headset: FAQ

Razer BlackShark V2 Pro 2023 headset detail images

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)

What is the best Razer headset?

The best Razer headset is the BlackShark V2 Pro right now. It's an excellent all-in-one headset for a range of platforms, that doesn't break the top end of the price range. However, if you are looking to spend a little less we'd recommend checking out the Razer Kraken for a budget-friendly alternative. 

What is the latest Razer headset?

The latest Razer headset is the 2023 Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Hyperspeed, launched in October. Razer does release its headsets in a few ranges, though - BlackShark, Kraken, Barracuda, and Kaira. You'll find the latest in each of these lines below. 

BlackShark - Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Hyperspeed (September 2023)

Kraken - Razer Kraken V3 Hypersense (October 2021)

Barracuda - Razer Barracuda Pro (May 2022)

Kaira - Razer Kaira X for PlayStation (September 2021)

Are Razer headsets worth it?

Razer headsets come with a pedigree and, yes, they are sometimes more expensive than their counterparts. However, there are plenty of budget-minded releases on the shelves right now, some of which offer the best value of the pack. Razer does offer excellent audio quality and a commendable plug and play approach that will see you through a wide variety of platforms and genres. While the top end of the price scale is more pressured by the competition offering different features at the same cost, or slightly less, the brand's entry level headsets can trade blows with their shelf-mates. 

If you're looking for rundowns of some other top brands' headsets, then check out our guides to Turtle Beach headsets, and Sennheiser gaming headsets.

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