Next-Level Sound: Top Headphone Choices for 2024

2024 saw a surge in innovative gaming headsets, and as we move into 2025, several models stand out as clear favorites. These headsets deliver not only pristine audio with deep bass but also boast cutting-edge comfort and durability features. We've curated a list of top contenders guaranteed to elevate your gaming experience.

Logitech G G435
Razer Barracuda X 2022
JBL Quantum 100
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Defender Aspis Pro
Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed
HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 Core
Astro A50 X
Turtle Beach Atlas Air
HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless

Logitech G G435

40mm audio drivers for immersive surround sound
Frequency range: 20Hz – 20,000Hz
Impedance: 32Ω, Sensitivity: 96dB
Wireless connection: USB-C
Weight: 165g
Microphone: Passive fixed with noise cancellation
Compatibility: PC, consoles, smartphones, tablets

The Logitech G G435 pleasantly surprises with its lightweight comfort. Its incredibly light design makes it almost unnoticeable during extended use. The sound quality is impressive, delivering crisp highs, solid bass, and surprisingly detailed audio for its price point. Ideal for those seeking a comfortable, functional headset for hours of gaming or music listening. The wireless USB-C connection offers minimal lag and eliminates the hassle of wires. Its versatility and broad device compatibility make it a strong choice for gamers who prioritize portability and comfort.

Razer Barracuda X 2022

40mm Razer TriForce drivers
Frequency range: 20Hz – 20,000Hz
Impedance: 32Ω, Sensitivity: 96dB
Wireless connection: USB-C
Weight: 271g
Microphone: Fixed with noise reduction up to -42dB
Compatibility: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, portable consoles, smartphones

This headset excels in versatility and comfort. Its lightweight design and soft earcups provide a secure, fatigue-free fit, even during marathon gaming sessions. The audio is clear and deep, with well-defined low frequencies and detailed mids and highs, allowing for precise sound cues in games. The USB-C wireless connection ensures responsive, lag-free performance crucial for fast-paced gaming. Its ergonomic design and seamless connectivity make it an excellent choice for gamers using multiple platforms.

JBL Quantum 100

40mm drivers
Frequency range: 20Hz – 20,000Hz
Impedance: 32Ω, Sensitivity: 96dB
Wired connection: 3.5mm mini-jack
Weight: 220g
Microphone: Removable unidirectional
Compatibility: PC, consoles, smartphones, tablets

A budget-friendly, reliable option, the JBL Quantum 100 delivers a consistent, lag-free audio experience thanks to its wired connection. The detachable microphone adds flexibility for switching between gaming and everyday use. The sound profile is rich and balanced, with strong bass and crisp highs, making it suitable for gaming, music, and movies. Its lightweight design, plush earcups, and adjustable headband prioritize comfort during extended play sessions.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless

Premium High Fidelity Speakers
Frequency range: 10Hz – 22,000Hz
Impedance & Sensitivity: Not specified
Connection: Wireless (2.4GHz/Bluetooth) and wired via USB
Weight: 337g
Microphone: Retractable bidirectional with noise cancellation
Compatibility: PC, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, mobile devices, Xbox (separate version)

A top-tier gaming headset that maintains its leading position despite new competitors. Exceptional sound quality, superior comfort, and advanced features make this a true gaming masterpiece. Its minimalist design is stylish and suitable for both gaming and everyday use. The included docking station with equalizer and hot-swappable battery eliminates downtime for effortless battery changes.

Defender Aspis Pro

50mm drivers
Frequency range: 20Hz – 20,000Hz
Impedance: 32Ω, Sensitivity: 103dB
Wired connection: USB
Microphone: Adjustable removable with mute function
Compatibility: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, mobile devices (Android/iOS)

A strong contender for most gamers, offering excellent sound quality and wireless freedom. The headset produces crisp, clear audio with rich mid and low frequencies. The microphone delivers exceptional voice clarity, ideal for team-based gaming and online communication.

Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed

50mm Razer TriForce Titanium drivers
Frequency range: 12Hz – 28,000Hz
Wireless (2.4GHz/Bluetooth) and wired via USB
Weight: 280g
Microphone: Non-removable unidirectional with Razer HyperClear Super Wideband
Compatibility: PC, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, mobile devices

A premium choice for many gamers, combining superior sound quality with wireless convenience. The high-quality drivers deliver crystal-clear audio with detailed mids and lows. The built-in microphone ensures excellent voice transmission, making it perfect for team play and online communication.

HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 Core

40mm drivers
Frequency range: 10Hz – 25,000Hz
Impedance: 32Ω, Sensitivity: 95dB
Wired connection: 3.5mm mini-jack
Weight: 225g
Microphone: Non-removable dynamic with mute function
Compatibility: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, mobile devices

A reliable and budget-friendly headset for regular gaming. Its ergonomic design, lightweight build, plush earcups, and adjustable headband ensure comfort during long sessions. The microphone, with mute function and adjustable positioning, guarantees clear team communication.

Astro A50 X

40mm graphene drivers
Frequency range: 20Hz – 20,000Hz
Impedance & Sensitivity: Not specified
Connection: Wireless (2.4GHz/Bluetooth via base) and wired via HDMI
Weight: 363g
Microphone: Non-removable omnidirectional with mute function
Compatibility: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch (limited), mobile devices (limited)

The Astro A50 X features a unique base station with an HDMI switcher, enabling instant switching between PlayStation and Xbox while maintaining 4K resolution at 120Hz. The graphene drivers deliver clean, powerful sound with deep lows and balanced highs. The ergonomic design with soft magnetic earcups and swiveling cups ensures comfort during extended play.

Turtle Beach Atlas Air

40mm drivers with open acoustic design
Frequency range: 20Hz – 40,000Hz
Connection: Wireless (2.4GHz, Bluetooth), wired (3.5mm)
Weight: 301g
Microphone: Unidirectional removable with mute function when raised
Compatibility: PC, PlayStation, Xbox (wired), Nintendo Switch, mobile devices
Battery life: Up to 50 hours

An excellent open-back headset offering incredible comfort and natural, detailed sound. The open-back design creates a spacious soundscape, ideal for long gaming sessions. It features wireless connectivity and up to 50 hours of battery life.

HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless

50mm neodymium drivers
Frequency range: 15Hz – 21,000Hz
Connection: Wireless (2.4GHz)
Weight: 322g
Microphone: Bipolar removable with mute function
Compatibility: PlayStation, PC
Battery life: Up to 300 hours

This headset sets a new standard for battery life, offering up to 300 hours of use. Its sound is clear and powerful, making it a great choice for single-player games. However, the microphone quality is a limiting factor for multiplayer gaming.

In 2024, headphone manufacturers delivered several impressive gaming headsets. These models offer exceptional sound, noise reduction, high-quality microphones, and long battery life (for wireless models). These top contenders are sure to remain relevant in 2025. Which headset will you choose?