Joybuy Insights

Choosing a gaming headset: how to find a comfortable headset with a microphone

A gaming headset needs to do more than play sound. You want to hear your teammates clearly, react quickly and play for hours without constantly adjusting the headband or ear cushions. However, comparing product pages properly can be difficult. Terms such as “surround sound”, “noise cancelling” and “professional microphone” do not always tell you what you will actually get in practice.

The following points will help you distinguish marketing claims from verifiable features. Afterwards, you will find some popular choices for different playing styles and platforms.

Three common pitfalls when choosing a gaming headset

1. Confusing virtual surround sound with genuine multi-channel audio

A 7.1 surround sound headset often uses software to simulate spatial audio. This can be useful for positional sounds in games, but it does not work in the same way on every console or connection. With some models, the feature is only available through PC software.

So check:

  • Whether surround sound is provided through hardware or virtually.
  • Whether the feature works on your PC, PS5, Xbox or Nintendo Switch.
  • Whether a USB connection, specific software or an activation code is required.
  • Whether the product plays in stereo as standard.

A stereo model is not automatically unsuitable. For consoles and mobile devices, a simple 3.5mm connection can sometimes be more practical than software features that are only available on PC.

2. Not looking into what “noise reduction” actually means

With gaming headsets, noise reduction can refer to several different things:

  • Passive sound isolation provided by over-ear ear cushions.
  • A microphone that attempts to reduce background noise.
  • Active noise cancellation, where electronics counteract surrounding sounds.

These are not equivalent features. A wired gaming headset with closed, soft ear cushions can partially reduce surrounding noise, but that does not automatically mean the microphone will remove every background sound. Look at the descriptions of both the earcups and the microphone.

3. Judging compatibility from the product title alone

A headset may be described in its title as suitable for several platforms, while certain features remain limited. A 3.5mm headset will generally work easily through a controller or combined connection. However, some PCs have separate audio and microphone ports, in which case you will need a splitter.

With wireless models, you should also check whether the supplied USB dongle works with your device. Bluetooth is not always available on consoles. Also check the difference between:

  • Gaming headset for PC with USB software and spatial audio.
  • Gaming headset for PS5 with 3D audio through the console.
  • Gaming headset for Xbox with a suitable controller connection or wireless support.
  • Gaming headset for Nintendo Switch with 3.5mm audio through the console or controller.
  • Mobile devices with USB-C, Bluetooth or a 3.5mm port.

The most important specifications explained

Wired or wireless

A wired gaming headset does not need a battery and works as soon as you connect the cable. This makes it suitable for long sessions and switching between different devices. Do check the cable length and whether the cable is detachable.

A wireless gaming headset gives you greater freedom of movement. Pay attention to the connection used: 2.4GHz is intended for a wireless dongle, while Bluetooth is particularly convenient for phones, tablets and laptops. Check the stated battery life for your preferred connection method. Lighting can increase power consumption.

Earcups, weight and fit

An over-ear gaming headset completely surrounds your ears. This can be comfortable during longer sessions and helps with passive sound isolation. Look out for:

  • Weight: models weighing around 240 to 340 grams can feel different depending on how the weight is distributed.
  • Cushion material: memory foam and faux leather feel different from breathable fabrics.
  • Headband adjustability.
  • Rotating or foldable earcups.
  • Whether the earcups are large enough for your ears.

A lightweight model is not automatically comfortable; the pressure from the headband and the shape of the cushions are just as important.

Microphone and controls

With a gaming headset with microphone, positioning and controls matter more than the term “noise reduction” alone. A directional microphone mainly picks up sound from the front, while an omnidirectional microphone can register sound from multiple directions.

Useful features include:

  • Flip-to-mute: the microphone is muted when you flip it upwards.
  • A physical mute button.
  • Detachable microphone for listening to music or watching films.
  • Volume control on the earcup or cable.
  • A pop filter or microphone cover.

Recommended gaming headsets for different users

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Trust GXT 415 Zirox gaming headset

Trust GXT 415 Zirox - Gaming Headset - Wired - 50 mm Drivers - Over-Ear - Black

Why it suits this profile: This lightweight wired gaming headset is suitable for PC, laptop, PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch via 3.5mm. The 2-metre cable is practical for a desk setup.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications clearly state stereo audio and no virtual 7.1 feature. You therefore do not pay for a surround feature you may not use.

Main benefit & key advantages

244 grams, 50mm drivers, over-ear ear cushions and controls for volume and the microphone.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality
HyperX Cloud III S gaming headset

HYPERX Cloud III S Gaming Headset Black/Red

Why it suits this profile: This wireless model combines 2.4GHz and Bluetooth. According to the product information, the battery lasts up to 120 hours via 2.4GHz and up to 200 hours via Bluetooth.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The two connection methods and the supplied USB-A and USB-C dongles are clearly listed. Do check beforehand that your platform appears on the compatibility list.

Main benefit & key advantages

53mm drivers, detachable microphone, Bluetooth 5.3 and DTS Spatial Audio according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Razer BlackShark V2 X gaming headset

Razer BlackShark V2 X 7.1 Wired Gaming Headset Multi-Platform Esports - Black

Why it suits this profile: This over-ear headset is designed for players looking for a lightweight, wired solution for multiple platforms. The product information states support for PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch and mobile devices.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description states that 7.1 surround sound is activated through Razer software and an activation code. Check the software requirements before expecting to use this feature.

Main benefit & key advantages

240 grams, 50mm TriForce drivers, 3.5mm connection and a cardioid HyperClear microphone according to Razer.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about gaming headsets

Does a gaming headset work with multiple consoles?

That depends on the connection. A headset with a 3.5mm jack will often work with devices that have a combined audio and microphone connection. For PCs, check whether a splitter is required. With wireless headsets, the supported platforms vary depending on the dongle and connection method.

Is a wired gaming headset better than a wireless model?

A wired model does not need a battery and can be connected straight away. A wireless gaming headset offers greater freedom of movement, but needs to be charged and may have different modes for PC, console and mobile use. Choose based on where you play and which devices you use, rather than just the product name.

How long does a gaming headset last?

Its lifespan depends on cable use, hinges, the microphone arm, ear cushions and storage. A detachable cable or microphone can be practical if a component needs replacing. Keep the headset dry, do not pull on the cable and avoid using excessive volume. In the EU, consumer purchases are covered by a legal guarantee of at least two years; additional rights may depend on the applicable national rules.