Microsoft’s Xbox Series X and S consoles have landed. These latest-gen gaming systems bring with them an array of incredible features, including Quick Resume and Smart Delivery, as well as teraflops of technological grunt and access to the Xbox Games Pass.
The migration from the Xbox One consoles to the new and powerful Series X|S is an exciting thing indeed. But there is a way to make it an even more thrilling gaming upgrade: a brilliant headset (and then if you're serious about sim racing, a racing wheel).
While the console is going to deliver you near-non-existent load times and your 4K UHD television is going to present you with pristine visuals, all of the gaming headsets that we’ve selected are going to rock your audio-world.
Wired or wireless?
We opt for wireless. Why? Because the next-gen is all about a rapid, streamlined experience. There should be nothing holding you back from enjoying all the cutting edge convenience that contemporary gaming has to offer.
The best Xbox gaming headsets
While we have been focused on the Series X|S consoles, all the headsets below are perfectly compatible with Xbox One consoles too.
Editoru2019s pick
Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC (with adaptor)
The SteelSeries Arctic 9X is one of the best gaming headsets around, regardless of whether you’re on Xbox or otherwise. The audio stunning, being well-tuned and punchy, and provides an incredible sense of depth via Xbox’s 3D spatial audio.
As an Xbox Wireless device it quickly links to the console with no dongle or cabling, which is great for convenience, and the battery life is long, comfortably pushing 20-hours. You can also hold a simultaneous Bluetooth connection for taking calls or listening to music while gaming. Additionally, the mic - which is crystal-clear - can retract up into the shell when not in use.
Best value
www.argos.co.uk
Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Official kit can suffer from the law of diminishing returns due to its 'official' badge, but not here. Quite the contrary, in fact. You will be struggling to find better performance for this kind of price.
In terms of fit, this is a very comfortable, lightweight headset. The only caveat being those with big heads might struggle. The mic pops away neatly when you aren't in need of it. The sound quality is superb too with the help of software such as Windows Sonic, Dolby Atmos, and DTS Headphone X. To adjust volume, you rotate the outer of the earcup. Nice touch.
Best of the best
www.argos.co.uk
Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
The ASTRO A50 is truly special. Firstly and vainly, it looks fantastic. Toning things down from previous iterations, the Gen 4 carries a stealth-fighter spirit, with in-built game/chat volume controls blending in with ease. The docking base dimensions have been cut down to reduce its footprint, too.
Secondly and more importantly, it boasts an industry-leading sound profile. Thanks to ASTRO Audio V2 and Dolby Audio, the surround sound is immersive and every audio frequency cuts through with precision.
To access to Dolby Atmos, you can install the Dolby Access app onto your Series X|S console.
Best budget Xbox headset
Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch
The Logitech headset stands out here not only because it's wired but because of it's low price. But Logitech being Logitech, it's a remarkable piece of kit.
They produce impressive audio, certainly far more than one expects at this price. Sound is balanced and there is plenty of bass so your virtual racing machines sound like they ought to. The surround sound is good too, thanks to DTS Headphone
It may not be the most robust-feeling headset out there but take care of them and they'll last. Comfort is excellent and you can happily wear them for hours.
Most improved player
Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC (may need adaptor)
This, the second generation of the impressive Stealth 700 headset, boasts some significant upgrades from its predecessor. The powerful drivers provide a driven sound with Windows Sonic audio to provide a high-quality all-round immersion. Wireless connection to the Xbox console is quick and easy thanks to its integration with Xbox Wireless.
The inclusion of Bluetooth tech also means that you can take calls or listen to music during gaming, and the Audio Hub smartphone app lets you turn up specific in-game audio, allowing you to improve and customise your experience. The battery life will keep you gaming for 20-hours.