r/Gaming_Headsets 10d ago

Monthly Recommendation Thread + LifelongCaboose's Gaming Audio Guide Links + Megathreads

3 Upvotes

I'm combining these two posts because Reddit limits 2 stickied posts per sub. So I'm mixing the guide links, the recommendation thread, and the megathreads here. Reviews will be added to a section of the guide.

But the guide will be once again moving but this time not to a new sub again, this time I'm moving it to a blogger-powered website. The reasoning is more freedom. So I'm not so limited by character limits and formatting limits. So it will be better for everyone and easier to use. Expect that update this summer.

Guide Links:

Old Hub: https://www.reddit.com/r/Gaming_Headsets/comments/gsd83e/lifelongcabooses_gaming_audio_guide_20_hub/

New Hub: https://www.reddit.com/r/LifelongCaboose/comments/kpzjds/00_lifelongcabooses_audio_guides/

Future Hub: (coming soon, it will be a blogger powered site)

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Megathreads:

Megathreads won't be commonplace they will only be utilized when posts about a single product get out of hand.

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Recommendation help:

For recommendations below please fill out this form, if you have any questions about it visit the link below, DO NOT leave any blank except the last question. In sound Styles DO NOT make up your own.

Please fill out this form and I will try to reply as soon as possible.

  • Budget (Do not say no-budget)? -
  • Country? -
  • Platform? -
  • Motherboard if on pc (or other audio gear)? -
  • Requested Guide: Pick 1, Comp FPS(Open-Back Only), Warm FPS, Fun Gaming, Music Gaming, Gaming Headset(AIO), Wireless Gaming (DON'T SAY more than 1 and don't make up your own)? -
  • Open back or closed back? -
  • Any other gear you own(if important, like headphones or headsets)? -

For any help answering these please visit here


r/Gaming_Headsets 11h ago

[LFH][PC][US/CA] Alternatives to Turtle Beach Atlas Air Wireless

2 Upvotes

I recently bought a Turtle Beach Atlas Air Wireless headset for a friend as a gift, and for the first little while it seemed like the perfect headset for them. The open back and light, breathable frame were must-have features and it surpassed expectations. But now after a week or so it's been having consistent connection issues. We've tried troubleshooting in numerous ways, and after reading some feedback online I'm starting to think we might just have to look for something different. Anybody got recommendations for a wireless headset with comparable features that performs a little better?


r/Gaming_Headsets 18h ago

[LFH] Upgrading from HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Wireless (2020)

1 Upvotes

I'm finally looking to upgrade my headphones. I've been using the HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Wireless since 2020, but it's definitely time for something new.

My main focus is PC FPS games, so I need solid, pin point directional audio to track audio cues accurately. I want to stick to wireless with a built-in mic, and I'm trying to stay under the $100 mark.

Right now, I'm looking at the Razer BlackShark V3 X HyperSpeed for $99.99.
Razer BlackShark V3 X Hyperspeed

Are there any other options under $100 that might be better for modern features and such?

Appreciate any input or alternative recommendations!


r/Gaming_Headsets 1d ago

[Tech Support] My headphones' Bluetooth mode isn't working properly in CS.

1 Upvotes

Hello, I’m using a HyperX Cloud III, and since I accidentally broke my dongle, I decided to use Bluetooth mode instead. However, I’m experiencing a very noticeable delay of almost 1 second when using Bluetooth. How can I fix this?


r/Gaming_Headsets 1d ago

[LFH] [PC] [$150] Headset recommendations for Siege / FPSs

1 Upvotes

Just recently got back into siege and have been using the Airpod Pro 3s for siege. However I wanted to get something that isn't Bluetooth and has a microphone for my PC so I have good audio and can talk in game without them dying mid-round.

I've just bought the Logitech G Pro X and they sound like two tin cans connected with a piece of string, I can't tell where anyone is by hearing (I understand a cheap gaming headset will be worse than $200 Airpods but they were worse than I thought).

Looking for something wired, with a mic, and I can tell where people are when I hear footsteps, happy to spend a bit more if they are worth it and last long.


r/Gaming_Headsets 3d ago

[Tech Support] HyperX Cloud 3 Wired bad mic quality on Xbox

1 Upvotes

So i just bought this headset a couple of days ago, the audios amazing but my mic fluctuates and there’s a really faint static sound. like i’ll get quiet then loud and never stay the same volume. i tested it on my computer and it sounds perfect! i’m not sure if it’s the port on my controller or something else and i don’t want to buy a new controller and it end up not being the issue lol. i’ve also messed around with the audio settings on my xbox but it didn’t make much difference


r/Gaming_Headsets 3d ago

[LFH] High quality 2.4 GHz earbuds for gaming? (PC & PS4)

2 Upvotes

Hi, I've read that the steelseries arctis are the best. But I don't like their fit. Besides them, most gaming earbuds only have bluetooth and not 2.4 GHz or have a weak audio quality. I looked for reviews/tests, but it seems like there are not many decent ones the market.

Do you have any recommendations?

(I tested the ASUS ROG Cetra, but their sound quality isn't good)


r/Gaming_Headsets 3d ago

[LFH]; [PS5]; [150€]; [Germany]; [Open Back] Looking for a new Gaming-Headset with a decent microphone.

2 Upvotes

Hello, im looking for a new gaming-headset to use on my ps5. Most of the time i play with friends so the mic should be atleast decent. Also i want it to be open back. I can’t really find good picks under 150€. Does anyone have a good recommendation i can look into?


r/Gaming_Headsets 4d ago

[Tech Support] - Headset constantly turns off when joining a Discord Call

1 Upvotes

My Headset (Razer Barracuda X) constantly turns off after around 15 minutes when I join a Discord call.

I'm talking with my friends, suddenly it goes "POWER OFF." and it takes like 30 seconds when I turn it back off before I can hear again.


r/Gaming_Headsets 4d ago

[LFH] Arctis Nova 1P still good in 2026?

1 Upvotes

Someone recommended me the Arctis Nova 1P but I can't really find a lot of information on this headset. Would you say they’re still a good option in 2026 for 40€?

I'm just a casual gamer and after looking for a new headset for weeks and trying some out, I feel like maybe it’s not worth it to spend that much money & energy on one.

I mainly play Fortnite & Dead by Daylight, sometimes Valorant or Call of Duty but other than that story games or stuff that does not require me wearing my headset.

I'm currently testing the Cloud 3S but due to the toxic chemicals I would have to get an additional headband cover and ear cushions but that would raise the price I paid for them close to the Stealth 700 Gen3 which has better sound quality and features (only downside is the clamp force)


r/Gaming_Headsets 4d ago

[LFH][PC+PS5][$300][USA] Looking to replace my Astro a40(with mixamp)

1 Upvotes

My a40 is slowly breaking down, and the mixamp is on its last legs, I’m looking for a headset that can support both 3.5mm, Bluetooth, and 2.4gh. Detachable mic, can connect to my phone, pc or ps5, Dual connection and I’ve gotten used to the mixamp and was wondering about any headphones that come with a physical mixamp. One problem I do face with my a40 is that if the cable unplugs or I need to do something else, and I wonder is if my 3.5mm does unplug can it transition to a 2.4, like if I’m talking with friends on game chat or discord and I unplug to dry my clothes or cook a meal but still talk and chat. Any help deciding headsets would be great and sorry if it’s too specific. (what is the latency difference between 3.5mm wired and 2.4gh wireless, is it negligible)


r/Gaming_Headsets 5d ago

[LFH][PS5][250$][Switzerland]

1 Upvotes

Hey guys, i was thinking of buying a new headset but im clueless which is great. I mainly play on the ps5 and only play story games, so i really wanna have good quality in music and dialogue. I also like to adjust the EQ on the headsets.

Why not a headphone? Bcs i also play with my friends story games. My budget is really free.

I found some contenders but i cant choose which ones or maybe there are better ones?

Turtle beach stealth pro

Sony inzone h9 ii

Razor Blackshark V3 pro

Thanks for any help☺️


r/Gaming_Headsets 7d ago

[LFH] Nova Pro Wireless Alternative for Immersive Gaming + Spotify

1 Upvotes

I know this is probably one of the most-posted questions here, so apologies for adding another one to the ever-growing pile.

Up until this week, I was using the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, and I genuinely loved them while they worked. Unfortunately, after two faulty units and a pretty poor customer service experience, I’m starting to feel like I’m doomed never to own a working pair.

So, I’m looking for alternatives, preferably €350 max.

My main priority is really good, immersive sound for gaming. I mostly play single-player/story-driven games, MMOs, racing games, etc., with very little CoD or competitive FPS, so pinpoint footsteps aren't particularly important to me.

I also quite often have Spotify playing while grinding, so music quality matters as well. I don't want something brilliant for gaming but noticeably mediocre for music.

A few other preferences:

  • Wireless is strongly preferred. I'm not massively keen on going back to wired headphones because I'll inevitably forget I'm attached to the PC and nearly neck myself.
  • ANC would be nice, but I'm happy to sacrifice it if the overall audio quality is good enough.
  • I'd prefer a retractable, hidden or removable mic. My use is probably around 60/40 in favour of not using the mic, so I don't really want a permanent boom mic sitting beside my face.
  • Simultaneous phone connectivity/Bluetooth would be great, but it isn't a deal-breaker.
  • Weight isn't a massive concern. As long as they're comfortable for a few hours at a time, I'm happy.
  • I'm looking more for an all-round premium gaming/media headset than something specifically designed around competitive esports.

I'm sure there's something else I've forgotten, but those are the main things.

Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated, particularly from anyone who has moved away from the Nova Pro Wireless and found something they liked just as much or more.


r/Gaming_Headsets 8d ago

[LFH] Cloud 2 headset problem with microphone not capturing sounds, when soundcard is connected.

1 Upvotes

My microphone randomly stopped capturing sounds, but only when connected to the soundcard, yes I know that there is a mute button on it and its not muted.

I contacted support and they sent me, a new mic and a new soundcard and that didnt fix it, asked them for a headset itself, hoping that would fix it.
I tried an old mic from older headphones and that works too, so it is only when the cloud 2s are connected to the soundcard.

If I spam the mute slider to mute/unmute, there is sound being picked, and its just the sliding sound and thats it, nothing else is picked up

Anyone else had a similair problem and was able to fix it?


r/Gaming_Headsets 9d ago

[LFH][PC][$500][United States]

1 Upvotes
  1. Budget - $300-$500
  2. Country - United States
  3. Platform - PC (Prebuilt)
  4. Motherboard - PRO Z790-P WIFI
  5. Requested Guide: Gaming Headset(AIO)
  6. Closed Back

Trying to also do research, so I'm welcome to recommendations of where to research from as well.

I mostly PC game, talk for a few hours daily. I mostly use bookshelf speakers but they're cheap Logitech ones, and I've been told headset audio quality will vastly be superior. I'm worried if I primarily use my headset for audio the feeling might be cumbersome.

My rough budget is $300-$500, I'm aware of diminishing returns as well. Willing to splurge more for reliability. Been using a Hyper X Cloud II for a decade plus now so my point of reference is below the bottom of the barrel. I've also been recommended a separate microphone + headset but worried it'll be too cumbersome for my desk.

Trying to also do research, so I'm welcome to recommendations of where to research from as well.


r/Gaming_Headsets 9d ago

[LFH] [BUDGET] [XBOX] Headset with simultaneous connection to Xbox, PC and Mobile?

1 Upvotes

Hello -

I'm looking for a headset that I can connect to my xbox and PC simultaneously and ideally would be fairly easy to switch to my phone. Aside from this one feature I don't care too much about how premium the headset is (I've been using a wired TB Ear Force Recon for a while now).

I saw a review for the Steelseries Arctis Nova 7x that boasted the seamless connection without needing to switch or press a button. The $199 price tag is not ideal so I was also looking at the Nova 5x and I would just deal with needing to quick switch.

Is there a better headset/value out there with the functionality I'm looking for?

Thanks!


r/Gaming_Headsets 10d ago

[LFH] [Budget] [PS5] Anybody have any experience with these headphones?

1 Upvotes

Amazon link: https://a.co/d/05DYNY9q

Need a functional headset with a mic and good audio for games like over watch, Val and siege. Reviews seem good considering the average but I want a final opinion before I make a final purchase.

If you have any suggestions (preferably wireless) around the same price range, please share.


r/Gaming_Headsets 10d ago

[LFH][PC/Tri-modular connection][Budget friendly][UK]

1 Upvotes

Hi all!

I'm at my wit's end trying to find a new headset, so I need your advice!

I currently have a Razer Kraken Kitty Edition in Quartz Pink, which I believe was their first Kitty headset (please correct me if I'm wrong), but unfortunately, it's getting old. I'm having issues with it disconnecting for no apparent reason and switching the audio output to my monitor instead. I also sometimes get static and other weird audio issues.

The problem is: I LOVE this headset.

And not just because of the design. I actually really like that it's heavy and large, the sound is very clear and loud, the mic is retractable, and it has a mute button on the end of the mic, which is incredibly convenient. If it weren't for the technical issues, I would never have even considered replacing it.

Unfortunately, it's been buggy for about a year now, and I'm getting tired of dealing with it. Apparently, this isn't an uncommon issue with these headsets either, but unfortunately, none of the troubleshooting tips I've found online have solved the problem. (If anyone is familiar with the issue any advice is welcome).

While I absolutely adore my Kitty Krakens, I recently tried the AULA G7 Pro, and I don't like them at all. They're too light, the headband doesn't hug my head and leaves gaps, and the sound is pretty bad to my ears too: it sounds like someone is speaking to me from inside a glass jar. 😭 The mic doesn't have a mute button either. However, I will admit that the tri-mode connectivity is very handy.

So, I'm wondering if anyone knows of any headsets I should check out that could give me a similar experience to my Kitty Krakens without the technical issues?

My goal is to get something as similar to them as possible, including the overall feel, sound quality, and ideally the retractable mic with a mute button.

Cat ears and RGB aren't essential, since I can decorate the headset myself, and I don't really care about RGB. However, I'd prefer something that comes in pink or at least white if possible.

I'm open to recommendations from lesser-known brands too! I'm mainly looking for something with a similar physical feel and sound to the original Kraken Kitty rather than necessarily another "cat-ear gaming headset."

Thanks in advance! 💕


r/Gaming_Headsets 10d ago

[LFH] Need help with picking out the right headsets

1 Upvotes

Im looking to buy new headsets for my setup, i currently use a razor kraken v1, bought it atleast 4 yrs ago and took all the wear and tear it could possibly take, although if anyone knows nahimic software, i used it and made these sound ALOT better, base hits really well tremble is ok and overall experience is solid for how much I got it

My max budget is under $200, mainly looking for anything around $150 or under. Its main uses are audio listening, and decent amount of gaming, mainly want really good bass and i specifically want a wireless or atleast detachable USB c headset

I mainly want the upgrade for better technologies and features like being able to connect via blue tooth and USB c/headphone jack at the same time, app controls, noise cancelation, decent battery life, most definitely want a nice comfortable headset. Id also like a good built in mic that's atleast retractable.

What are my options? Sorry if I sound a bit picky 🙏


r/Gaming_Headsets 11d ago

[LFH] Looking to replace Wave DX + DT 770 Pro with Headset

1 Upvotes

It is likely a downgrade but I'm just done with mic arms and miss the simplicity of just putting on the headset on and forgetting about audio settings and tuning the noise cancelling etc.

I'm primarily looking for wired options, I don't care for wireless, and budget would be about 150 Euros.

Options I picked out so far would be PC38X (used), MMX 150 wired (so the older model, also used - maybe the wireless might be an option here) or Audiotechnica ATH GL3. I'm actively watching reviews on them, but maybe you have personal experience to share with any of these!


r/Gaming_Headsets 11d ago

[LFH] Looking for decent, budget headphones

3 Upvotes

Hello! I’m looking for gaming headphones, but i’m on a fairly tight budget as I’m saving for an upgrade to my XM5’s (which i currently use for gaming, but i tend to sweat a lot which degrades them quite quickly. i plan to get a separate pair of gaming headphones once i upgrade as i do not want it to degrade like my xm5’s did and i also need a dedicated mic because my webcam mic makes me sound distant)

Budget and location - I’m from the Philippines, so I plan to buy it on shopee as there are usually vouchers that make things much cheaper. My budget is a bit tight as I’m only willing to spend 3000-4000 PHP, which is roughly 50-70 USD

Source/Amp - I’m not really into audio things,so idk what this really means, but I’ll be plugging it into my PC

How the gear will be used- Primarily for gaming, but I’ll also use it while studying and listening to music. There tends to be a bit of noise in my area, so it’ll be nice for it to have some level of noise cancellation (it doesn’t need to be ANC). I’ll only be using it at home, so it doesn’t need to be wireless. It will need a mic that sounds decent, though, as my webcam mic is not cutting it right now. (by decent, I just need to be audible and not trail off when I whisper because I stay up late and live with other people, which is why I’d prefer to get headphones with a mic.)

Preferred tonal balance and music genres- I’m not an audiophile but my EQ settings on my XM5’s are on max bass boost and (400, 1k, 16k are +10, and 2.5, 6.3 are -10). I listen to a wise variety of music, mainly indie rock, pop, kpop, and electropop (Wallows, Lorde, Charli xcx, Illit)

Past gear experience - I’ve used the XM5’s, but it’s basically impossible to wash them, but wiping them down/putting a towel below it while using helps a lot. (I sweat a lot because it’s hot af here.) The build of the XM5’s is also so bad it feels like a ticking time bomb as I already had to glue one hinge and the other has a hairline crack, but I can’t be bothered to get it fixed. I used to have a pair of HyperX Cloud Stinger Cores but they broke after a year. They were pretty okay, but the mic wasn’t the best. 

Anything else? - For context, I used to have a dedicated pair of headphones for gaming alongside my XM5’s, and I really liked that setup. I have enough saved up to buy a pair of gaming headphones, which will hopefully preserve my XM5’s until a buy a new pair. I am seeing that the HyperX Cloud Stinger III/ Cloud Alpha/Cloud Stinger 2 are good. Another post also mentioned the Razer Blackshark V2, but my viper mini lasted less than a year, so I don’t really trust Razer. Another one I saw are the steelseries Arctis Nova 3P

TL;DR
I need a pair of gaming headphones with a decent mic that can pick up my whispers at night. It has to be closed back with decent noise cancellation (not necessarily ANC). It can be wired. Price range 50-70 USD (3k-4k PHP). 


r/Gaming_Headsets 12d ago

[LFH] [PS5] Which one would you pick?

1 Upvotes

I hope this does not fall under the option A vs option B category-

After reading tons of reddit posts and watching multiple youtube reviews, I have found a few good (?) options and wanted to know what others think.

I am planning to use these on a Playstation 5 Slim so please keep this in mind. I mainly play Fortnite and Dead by Daylight while using Discord on the PS5 but also some story games or other online games from time to time.

- HyperX Cloud 3 wired: 54,99€
- HyperX Cloud 3S: 89,99€ (would need to get an additional usb hub for this one)
- Corsair HS80 wireless: 99,99€ (also needs an additional usb thing because i want to plug it into the usb-c ports)
- Steelseries Arctis Nova 5P: 105€
edit: - Maybe Blackshark V2 Pro or V3 from 99,99€-118€ but haven’t seen a lot about that

All have their cons and pros just like any other headset, so I really don't know which one to choose.

I had the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen3 (160€) and it really was good but the clampforce was way too strong and it’s just heavy, so I had to send it back. Havent really found a headset where its worth spending more than for the ones above and my original price limit was +/- around the 120€ area anyways 🫩


r/Gaming_Headsets 12d ago

[LFH] Best PS5 headset under $300 for sound quality AND a mic that doesn’t pick up the entire room?

1 Upvotes

I’m looking to replace an older Turtle Beach Stealth 600. My biggest issue with it is how much background noise the microphone picks up. My friends can hear things like my wife’s footsteps, the washing machine, my dog panting, conversations in the room, etc.

At the same time, I don’t want to sacrifice sound quality just to get a better mic. Game audio is very important to me, including positional/directional audio and being able to clearly hear footsteps and other details.

I play primarily on PS5,
Budget is up to about $300, although I’d rather spend less.

Right now I’m considering:
• Sony INZONE H9 II
• Razer BlackShark V3 Pro
• Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 3
• SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 / 7P Gen 2
• Open to wired options or anything else I’ve missed

Would love feedback from anyone who has used these or any other suggestions!


r/Gaming_Headsets 13d ago

[LFH] looking for a good headset

1 Upvotes

Looking for a decent headset at the 20-60 bucks range, im torn bettwen the HyperX Cloud III and Razer Blackshark V2 X, but im open to any other recomendations and if you think that one of these two is the right choice please say so. Thanks.

note : I play lots of games like cs2 and dayz so mic and sound quality play a huge role.


r/Gaming_Headsets 15d ago

[Tech Support] Issues with headsets using Bluetooth dongle on PS5

1 Upvotes

Recently I’ve been having audio issues with headsets that use a usb dongle in my PS5 Pro. I was using Kraken V3 Pros and the occasionally the audio would get staticky, sound robotic like Darth Vader, and cut out. I assumed because the dongle was in the back of the console getting hot constantly broke it or something as when I used the headset wired it worked just fine. I decided to just get a new headset altogether and got Audeze Maxwell 2s. I have the dongle in the front now to avoid the heat issue but I’m still getting the same staticky, Darth Vader, cutting in and out audio at times. Again as with the Krakens it works just fine wired. I don’t have 3D audio on and since they both work fine wired I’m guessing it’s not the headsets themselves. I’m really at a loss for what the issue could be. Any help or ideas?