Gaming headsets can enhance your experience with your Xbox Series X or Xbox One, especially when playing competitive games. And one of the main perks of Microsoft’s commitment to backwards compatibility is that every Xbox headset released for Xbox One works on Xbox Series X. That said, the Xbox Series X also ushered in new and advanced gaming headsets along with it. Yes, all of them also work on Xbox one. You have tons of options to choose from, but we’ve whittled down the options to find the best Xbox gaming headsets.
Gaming headsets differ from traditional headphones in that they almost always come with microphone–sometimes it’s detachable, but you’ll need it when chatting with others online. They often include a mixing dial, as well, letting you fine-tune the level of the game audio versus the chat.
One perk of owning an Xbox is that some of its finest gaming headset options are able to connect without a USB dongle, just like a controller. These headsets are also capable of turning your console on when powered up. With how sleek the new consoles look, it’s always nice when you don’t have to add a USB stick to the front of them. One of our favorite Xbox headsets, the SteelSeries Arctis 9X, is capable of doing exactly this and is well worth its hefty price tag. There are also wired options available that plug into the Xbox Series X controller, which can save you cash if you’re not bothered by the cord.
There are also a number of great budget Xbox gaming headset options that are much more affordable at the cost of some lost bells and whistles. These include the SteelSeries Arctis 1 wireless, which works with every platform including the PS5 and Nintendo Switch; the Corsair HS70 Bluetooth, which connects to your controller via 3.5mm cable and your smartphone via Bluetooth; and the Scuf H1, which features a number of customization options to personalize your experience and look.
If you’re looking for more Xbox accessories that are compatible with the newest consoles, check out our guide to the best Xbox Series X|S controllers for 2021 and best Xbox accessories.
SteelSeries Arctis 9X
The SteelSeries Arctis 9X is an incredible gaming headset. Its metal frame, excellent audio, and comfortable ear cushions make it a pair that’s always enjoyable to wear, and its all-wireless connectivity is its winning feature. You sync the Arctis 9X to your Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One like you would a controller, so turning on the headset also turns on the console. You can then connect it to your phone via Bluetooth and listen to your music or podcasts or even chat with your friends on Discord.
Pros:
- Great audio quality
- Sturdy build
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Bluetooth support
Cons:
SteelSeries Arctis 7X
The SteelSeries Arctis 7X trades the metal frame for a plastic one, but it’s still one of the best Xbox headsets out there. It connects via a USB-C dongle, which means you can use it on a number of platforms, including PC and Switch.
Pros:
- Lossless audio
- Wide compatibility
- 24-hour battery
Cons:
- Plastic frame
- Still expensive
Xbox wireless headset
The Xbox wireless headset boasts great sound quality backed up by its bold bass and pristine audio clarity. They’re also easy to wear thanks to their comfortable ear cushions and build quality that’s both flexible and sturdy. On top of all this, it features Bluetooth connectivity and Dolby Atmos. For those who are interested in the performance of the Xbox Wireless Headset but want to save a bit more, the upcoming Xbox Stereo Headset has very similar features in a $60 wired design.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Good audio quality
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Chunky build
Corsair HS70 Bluetooth
Corsair’s HS70 Bluetooth headset connects to the Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One’s controller via 3.5mm cable, but it can also connect to your phone via Bluetooth for music, podcasts, or Discord voice chat. It’s one of the sleekest-looking and best-sounding headsets you can buy for $100.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Bluetooth works for phones
- Sleek design
Cons:
- Limited Bluetooth support elsewhere
SteelSeries Arctis 1 wireless for Xbox
If you’re looking for a headset that works with every platform on the market, then the SteelSeries Arctis 1 wireless for Xbox is the one to go with. It works with the Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS5, PS4, and Nintendo Switch–the latter in handheld mode as well. And while the Arctis 1 is a cheaper-feeling headset than the Arctis 9X and 7X, it still feels comfortable and sounds great.
Pros:
- Versatile
- Great audio quality
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Not as sturdy as alternatives
Turtle Beach Elite Pro 2 Pro Performance
If you’re looking for a simple experience, then the Turtle Beach Elite Pro 2 gaming headset is an excellent pick. It connects to your controller via a 3.5mm cable, and that’s it–no other bells and whistles. However, it provides excellent sound and a comfortable experience for those looking to game for long sessions.
Pros:
- Simple and no-nonsense
- Noise-canceling microphone
Cons:
- Expensive for what you get
- Metal band may hurt some heads
Scuf H1
Scuf’s first gaming headset is a great one. Like the company’s controllers, you can customize the look and feel of the Scuf H1, including the color of the interchangeable tags and the material of the ear cushions. From there, all you need to do is plug it into your controller of choice via 3.5mm cable and enjoy the excellent sound the speakers provide.
Pros:
- Very customizable
- Good audio quality
- Classy design
Cons:
- Only wired connection