Finding the perfect gaming headset for your Xbox One X can feel like a wild goose chase, right? The key is nailing down top-notch audio quality and a stellar mic. Our buying guide features five winning headsets selected from an evaluation of over 30 models. These are the cream of the crop with amazing mic quality and super low latency.
We evaluated 146,886 reviews, filtering out fake reviews and unreliable sources to ensure accuracy with our Science-based True Score system. The headsets that made our list offer killer performance, a comfy fit, and rock-solid connectivity.
How Did We Rank the Best Xbox One Headsets?
Choosing the best Xbox One headset is now simpler, thanks to our exhaustive review process. We analyzed over 200 sites, focusing on diverse testing methods and customer feedback. Our experts identified the top headsets based on 2 crucial test outcomes, 2 desirable features, and 1 essential specs. Our True Score system guarantees that each recommendation is backed by solid research and reliable data.
Our commitment to unbiased reviews is powered by our ‘True Score’ system, targeting low quality and fake reviews. When you shop through our links, you’re backing our mission. Dive deeper to see how.
?️ Minimum Specifications
- Must be compatible with Xbox.
? Test Criteria
- Latency: By maintaining latency below 100 milliseconds, we ensure minimal delay in both data transmission and audio processing.
- Microphone Sound Quality Rating: must be lower or equal to 6.
? “Nice To Haves”
- Speech To Noise Ratio: greater than 24 dB.
Latest Updates
- 04/21/2024: Completely and thoroughly overhauled the guide to include the best and latest Xbox One headsets.
Top Best Xbox One Headsets For 2024
Prices accurate at the time of publishing
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Steelseries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless For Xbox
Best For Xbox One
True Score
83822Experts
885kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $59$349.99$291.00
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Good sound quality
- Decently comfortable
- Impressive microphone quality
Reasons to Avoid
- Middling ANC performance
Specifications
Driver Size 40mm 
Battery Life 22 hrs 
Headphone Fit Over-ear 
Connector Size 3.5mm 
Auto-Adjusting Headband Yes 
Detachable Mic No 
Adjustable Headband Yes 
Compatible Platforms Android, Mac, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X 
Earcup Foam Material Leatherette 
Max Frequency Response 40,000Hz 
Min Frequency Response 10 Hz 
Noise Canceling Yes 
Product Weight 0.74 lbs 
Programmable Buttons No 
Wireless Yes 
Wireless Connectivity Bluetooth, Dual-Wireless Technology All Specs
Test Results
Max Volume (dB) No Data Microphone Sound Quality Rating (out of 10.0) 7.7 Speech To Noise Ratio (dB) 37.47 BT Latency (ms) 236 Non-BT Latency (ms) 38 Low End Roll Off (Hz) 13.543 High End Roll Off (Hz) No Data All Retailers
$291.00$350Save $59
$299.99$587Save $287
$349.99
Our Verdict
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Turtle Beach Stealth Pro Wireless
The Turtle Beach Stealth Pro Wireless offers a premium gaming experience with versatile usability. Its mic quality may not excel, but its comfort and sound will serve diverse needs.
True Score
828213Experts
88587Customers
Absolutely Fresh
$207.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Good audio quality for gaming
- Good comfort
- Clear microphone performance
- Good build quality
Reasons to Avoid
- Sub-par Bluetooth latency on PC
- No wired connection
- Bulky and heavy
Specifications
Driver Size 50mm Battery Life 24 hrs Headphone Fit Over-ear Connector Size USB Type-C Auto-Adjusting Headband No Detachable Mic Yes Adjustable Headband Yes Compatible Platforms Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X Earcup Foam Material Memory Foam Max Frequency Response 22,000Hz Min Frequency Response 10 Hz Noise Canceling Yes Programmable Buttons No Wireless Yes Wireless Connectivity RF, Bluetooth All Specs
Test Results
Max Volume (dB) No Data Microphone Sound Quality Rating (out of 10.0) 7 Speech To Noise Ratio (dB) 21.45 BT Latency (ms) 178 Non-BT Latency (ms) No Data Low End Roll Off (Hz) 34.125 High End Roll Off (Hz) 8736.026 All Retailers
- $207.99
- $226.01$330Save $104
- $329.99
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a premium gaming headset for your Xbox One, the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro Wireless is an excellent option, especially for its Bluetooth performance. While it boasts the best-in-class Bluetooth latency of 178 ms among the competition, it’s essential to note that this latency might not be ideal for all gaming scenarios, particularly where split-second reactions are crucial.
The Turtle Beach Stealth Pro Wireless has good audio performance, with a low-end roll-off at 34.13 Hz and a high-end roll-off at 8736.03 Hz. These offer a commendable bass response and decent treble, albeit with potential limitations in the highest frequencies. The headset’s speech-to-noise ratio, the lowest in its class at 21.45 dB, coupled with the lowest microphone sound quality rating of 7 out of 10, indicates that while the mic is functional, it may not deliver the clearest communication in noisy environments. The Corsair Virtuoso Pro offers better mic quality if in-game communication is paramount. The headset’s design, featuring an adjustable headband and detachable mic, enhances user comfort and versatility, and its noise-cancelling capabilities can benefit immersive gaming experiences.
The Turtle Beach Stealth Pro Wireless could cater to various other use cases thanks to its performance. Despite not being the highest-rated microphone, its noise-cancelling features could make it a viable option for taking phone calls or participating in online meetings. The headset’s comfort and sound quality also lend themselves well to enjoying music or movies, making it a versatile choice for gaming, entertainment, and communication needs in various settings.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Corsair Virtuoso Pro
The Corsair Virtuoso Pro offers top-notch audio and mic quality, perfect for immersive Xbox gaming and beyond. It has a versatile design but lacks noise cancellation and a wireless option.
True Score
808011Experts
862kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
$199.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Great audio quality
- Exceptional comfort
- Top-quality microphone
Reasons to Avoid
- Poor sound leakage performance
- Poor noise-isolation
Specifications
Driver Size 50mm Battery Life Wired Headphone Fit Over-ear Connector Size 3.5mm Auto-Adjusting Headband No Detachable Mic Yes Adjustable Headband Yes Compatible Platforms Android, Mac, Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X Earcup Foam Material Memory Foam Max Frequency Response 40,000Hz Min Frequency Response 20Hz Noise Canceling No Product Weight 0.74 lbs Programmable Buttons No Wireless No Wireless Connectivity n/a All Specs
Test Results
Max Volume (dB) No Data Microphone Sound Quality Rating (out of 10.0) 8.2 Speech To Noise Ratio (dB) 26.17 BT Latency (ms) No Data Non-BT Latency (ms) No Data Low End Roll Off (Hz) 29.966 High End Roll Off (Hz) 11166.799 All Retailers
- $199.99
- $199.99
$199.99
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a mid-range Xbox One gaming headset that excels in quality and usability, the Corsair Virtuoso Pro is a fantastic choice. Its microphone sound quality, rated at 8.2 out of 10, ensures clear voice communication, a crucial aspect of immersive gaming and teamwork. The headset’s speech-to-noise ratio of 26.17 dB further enhances its mic quality, ensuring your voice is distinct even in a noisy gaming environment.
The Corsair Virtuoso Pro also impresses with its audio performance. With a low-end roll-off at 29.97 Hz, it reproduces deep bass frequencies, providing a rich and immersive sound experience. Although its high-end roll-off at 11166.8 Hz is higher than the 8736.03 of the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro Wireless, the higher frequencies, such as the shimmering sound of cymbals or the delicate nuances of vocals, may lack clarity.
Moreover, the headset’s design, including an adjustable headband and a detachable mic, adds to its versatility and comfort for prolonged gaming sessions. However, this model does not offer noise-cancelling capabilities, which might be a consideration for gamers in noisy environments. Additionally, it is wired only with a 3.5mm connector, making it less suitable for those who like the freedom of wireless options.
Not just for gaming, the Corsair Virtuoso Pro’s performance extends to various other applications. Its excellent microphone and audio quality make it suitable for phone calls or virtual meetings. The wide frequency response could also attract audiophiles for casual music listening. While it may not be the top choice for activities requiring noise cancellation, such as travel or working in busy spaces, its overall performance and features offer good versatility across different scenarios.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Steelseries Arctis Nova 7X
Best For Wireless Microphones
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X offers exceptional high-end clarity and versatile design, making it a strong contender for mid-range Xbox gaming headsets. Ideal for immersive gaming and multifunctional use.
True Score
79788Experts
8414kCustomers
Mixed Reviews
SAVE $36$179.99$144.49Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Great audio quality
- Very comfortable fit
- High-quality microphone
Reasons to Avoid
- Poor noise isolation
Specifications
Driver Size 40mm Battery Life 26 hrs Headphone Fit Over-ear Connector Size 3.5mm, USB Type-C Auto-Adjusting Headband No Detachable Mic No Adjustable Headband Yes 
Battery Charge Time 3 hrs 
Built In Microphone Yes Compatible Platforms Android, iOS, Mac, Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, VR Box, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X Earcup Foam Material AirWeave Fabric Max Frequency Response 22,000Hz Min Frequency Response 20Hz Noise Canceling No Product Weight 0.72 lbs Programmable Buttons No Transparency Mode n/a True Wireless No 
Voice Assistant na 
Water Resistant No Wireless Yes Wireless Connectivity 2.4GHz Wireless, Bluetooth All Specs
Test Results
Max Volume (dB) No Data Microphone Sound Quality Rating (out of 10.0) 7.2 Speech To Noise Ratio (dB) 35.99 BT Latency (ms) No Data Non-BT Latency (ms) No Data Low End Roll Off (Hz) 20 High End Roll Off (Hz) 14692.186 All Retailers
- $144.49$180Save $36
- $179.99
- $179.99
Our Verdict
For those looking for a mid-range Xbox gaming headset, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X is a compelling option. It is particularly distinguished by its best-in-class high-end roll-off, which reaches an impressive 14692.19 Hz. This feature ensures that high-frequency sounds, crucial for detecting subtle audio cues in gaming environments, are reproduced with exceptional clarity, providing a competitive edge in immersive gaming experiences.
Thanks to a low-end roll-off at 20 Hz, tied with the Razer Kaira Pro Wireless For Xbox, the headset’s clear treble is complemented by its effective handling of low-frequency sounds. This is crucial for delivering a full-bodied audio experience, especially in games with rich soundscapes or during music playback. Although the microphone’s sound quality is good at 7.2, its speech-to-noise ratio of 35.99 dB ensures voice communications remain clear, cutting through ambient noise, which is essential for team-based gaming sessions. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X uses a USB dongle rather than Bluetooth to facilitate wireless sound transmission. This ensures stable connectivity and reduced latency, enhancing real-time gaming interactions.
In addition to gaming, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X’s design features, such as the adjustable headband and retractable mic, enhance its versatility, making it suitable for extended use cases like listening to music, online meetings, or even light travel. While lacking noise cancellation, it excels in home or office settings, offering a robust choice for diverse needs. Its blend of performance and convenience makes it suitable for various users across various scenarios.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Razer Kaira Pro Wireless For Xbox
The Razer Kaira Pro Wireless for Xbox offers top-notch quality at a budget-friendly price, with excellent microphone clarity and versatile usability, making it an excellent choice for multiplayer gaming and beyond.
True Score
78778Experts
845kCustomers
Mixed Reviews
SAVE $74$149.99$75.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Average sound quality
- Excellent comfort
- Great boom mic
Reasons to Avoid
- Lack of Active Noise Cancellation
- The internal mic is sub-par
Specifications
Driver Size 50mm Battery Life 15 hrs Headphone Fit Over-ear Connector Size n/a Auto-Adjusting Headband Yes Detachable Mic Yes Adjustable Headband Yes Compatible Platforms Android, iOS, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X Earcup Foam Material FlowKnit Memory Foam Max Frequency Response 20,000 Hz Min Frequency Response 20Hz Noise Canceling No Product Weight – Programmable Buttons No Wireless Yes Wireless Connectivity Bluetooth, RF All Specs
Test Results
Max Volume (dB) No Data Microphone Sound Quality Rating (out of 10.0) 8.7 Speech To Noise Ratio (dB) 34.38 BT Latency (ms) 267 Non-BT Latency (ms) No Data Low End Roll Off (Hz) 20 High End Roll Off (Hz) 8863.094 All Retailers
- $75.99$150Save $74
- $88.10$150Save $62
- $107.95$150Save $42
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly gaming headset option that doesn’t skimp on quality, the Razer Kaira Pro Wireless for Xbox is an excellent choice, especially for multiplayer gamers. Notably, it boasts the best-in-class microphone sound quality, with an impressive 8.7 out of 10 rating. A speech-to-noise ratio of 34.38 dB ensures that your voice stands out against background noise, which is crucial for in-game strategy discussions and online meetings. This level of clarity is paramount for immersive gaming experiences and clear communication in multiplayer scenarios, making it an essential feature for serious gamers.
The Razer Kaira Pro demonstrates a commendable balance between performance and usability. The headset’s low-end roll-off at 20 Hz and a high-end roll-off at 8863.09 Hz provide a reasonably wide sound range that captures the full spectrum of game audio, from booming explosions to the subtle footsteps of an approaching enemy. Although its Bluetooth latency stands at 267 ms, which might not be ideal for competitive gaming, it remains a versatile choice for casual play and other media consumption.
Considering other use cases, the Razer Kaira Pro’s features, such as the auto-adjustable headband and detachable mic, enhance its adaptability, making it not just a gaming headset but a multi-functional audio accessory. Whether you’re using it for listening to music, taking phone calls, or even for a commute, its design and performance criteria cater to a wide range of needs. Despite not being noise-cancelling, its overall performance and versatility make it a strong gaming headset choice, especially for Xbox One users looking for quality at a reasonable price point.
Which Criteria Matters for Testing Best Xbox One Headsets?
By focusing on these criteria (2 required, 2 nice to have), anyone can quickly and easily compare these headsets and how they’ll perform. This helps you make an informed decision and purchase a Xbox One Headset that will sound great.
| CRITERIA | RANGE | REQUIRED | DEFINITION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low End Roll Off (Hz) | < 45 Hz | Yes | The point at which bass response starts to fall sharply, causing it to rapidly become inaudible. |
| Microphone Sound Quality Rating | > 6 | Yes | A subjective measure of how good the microphone on a headset sounds. |
| Speech to Noise Ratio (dB) | > 24 dB | No (Nice to have) | How effectively the headset’s microphone isolates the user’s voice in a noisy environment. |
| Non-BT Latency | < 50 ms | No (Nice to have) | The amount of lag time that exists between the headset receiving a non-Bluetooth signal and interpreting it to output it through the speakers. |
Our Trusted Data Sources
We looked at 110+ gaming headset reviewers and found that 31 are trustworthy (60%+ Trust Rating). The three we have listed below are our most trusted for gaming headsets.
- Theresa Ketterling – Rtings, MuckRack
- Reece Bithrey – Trusted Reviews, MuckRack
- Andrei Frumusanu – AnandTech, MuckRack
Interested in a comprehensive analysis of our data sources? We’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of every gaming headset review website we’ve identified, organized by their respective Trust Ratings from highest to lowest. But we didn’t stop there. We’ve meticulously reviewed each publication and verified the data by checking whether the authors have bio links to MuckRack or LinkedIn. We’re committed to not only checking the facts but ensuring their veracity.
Gaming Headset Test Data & Results
1. Microphone Sound Quality Rating (out of 10.0) Test Results
Microphone Sound Quality
> 6
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: The subjective recording quality of a microphone.
Units of Measurement: N/A
Tools to Measure: N/A
Why It’s Important:
If you use your headset to communicate often, be it in games or just chatting, you want it to make you as clear as possible, so people actually understand what you’re saying.
This is a strange test because it relies on subjective input. In this case, we derived this rating from the testing data provided by RTings and Soundguys, who subjectively rate microphone quality, and have their readers subjectively rate it, respectively. From there, we can average out the ratings and create an overall idea of how good a microphone sounds.
Generally speaking, you want this to be higher than 6.0, as it means you’ll have acceptable sound quality when communicating. There’s no upper limit to sound quality – if you can find a headset that has a 10/10 and suits you and your budget, go for it. Low sound quality mics, however, will distort or blow out your voice, and that will make you hard to hear and understand.
Microphone Sound Quality Rating (higher is better)
2. Speech To Noise Ratio (dB) Test Results
Speech to noise ratio is a bit complex. In the simplest terms, it’s how you measure how good of a job a microphone is going to do with transmitting your voice in a noisy environment without also transmitting all of the background noise.
You’ll want a mic that has a speech to noise ratio greater than 24 dB. By looking for microphones that hit at least this ratio, you’re in a much better position to use your microphone in noisier environments without having to worry about tons of background noise filtering in. If the ratio is too low, expect to transmit dogs barking, air conditioners and fans, and people talking in the background every time you start talking – and if it’s bad enough, even when you’re not.
Speech To Noise Ratio (dB)
> 24 dB
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: How well the microphone does at preventing noise that isn’t you talking directly into the mic from being transmitted.
Units of Measurement: dB
Tools to Measure: Dummy head, test microphone, speaker
Why It’s Important:
Battery life is what keeps your speaker going when you’re out and about, otherwise your speaker can’t survive heavy usage in a day or a weekend.
Speech To Noise Ratio (in dB; higher is better)
3. Non-BT Latency (ms) Test Results
Non-BT Latency (ms)
< 50ms
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: The delay introduced by the headset receiving and processing non-Bluetooth signals.
Units of Measurement: Milliseconds (ms)
Tools to Measure: Timer
Why It’s Important:
If you’re looking to improve audio quality and reduce delay, non-Bluetooth standards are almost always going to be how you do that.
It’s common for many gaming headsets to feature a non-Bluetooth connection standard, either in addition Bluetooth, or instead of it. Generally speaking, non-Bluetooth standards are going to be superior to Bluetooth, offering reduced latency and increased sound quality.
Because non-Bluetooth connections are naturally lower in latency, we recommend using headsets with a latency of 50 ms or less. This is significantly better than Bluetooth and guarantees that the latency you experience is low enough that you’ll be hard pressed to identify the delay the headset is experiencing. If a connection standard produces a latency greater than 50 ms, it has more “time” to create issues with noticeable differences between audio and visuals (up to around 100 ms), but it will eventually begin to introduce a frustrating mismatch between the audio you hear and the visuals you see.
Non-BT Latency (in ms; lower is better)
4. Low End Roll Off (Hz) Test Results
Low End Roll Off
< 45 Hz
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: The point at which response from the headphones starts to rapidly fall away from the target response in the bass end of the spectrum.
Units of Measurement: Hz (Hertz)
Tools to Measure: Frequency response software
Why It’s Important:
Roll off that starts later often indicates that a headset is able to produce deeper bass and still have it be audible, so if you love bass, you want the roll off to start later.
Deep bass is essential for an immersive gaming experience, and adds punch to common sounds, like gunfire and explosions. Low-end roll off is one of the major factors that helps determine how punchy this bass will sound. If the bass begins to roll off (or fade) too early in the audio spectrum, the result is a less impactful sound, which flattens out music and robs much of the sound you hear in game of depth and rumble.
Ideally, a gaming headset should maintain a robust bass response without significant drop-off at least down to 45 Hz, ensuring the bass feels full and present. Some headsets are capable of managing roll-offs that start in the low 20s or even the teens, which commonly indicates that the bass will be especially strong. Looking for roll offs that start in the low teens or single digits is unnecessary, however. Not only do these headsets not really exist, once you’re under 20 Hz, sound stops being audible, though you can still “feel” these frequencies in some cases.
Low End Roll Off (in Hz; lower is better)
Best Xbox One Headsets: Mistakes To Avoid
- Ignoring Compatibility: Ensure that the headset you choose is compatible with the Xbox One. Look for headsets specifically designed for Xbox consoles or those with compatibility with Xbox One controllers.
- Not Considering Wired vs. Wireless: Decide whether you prefer a wired or wireless gaming headset. Wireless headsets offer more freedom of movement but require battery charging, while wired headsets provide a reliable connection without worrying about battery life.
- Overlooking Comfort: Comfort is essential for long gaming sessions. Look for headsets with padded ear cups, adjustable headbands, and lightweight designs to prevent discomfort and fatigue.
- Ignoring Audio Quality: Pay attention to the headset’s audio quality, including sound clarity, bass response, and surround sound capabilities. A headset with good audio quality can enhance your gaming experience and provide a competitive edge in multiplayer games.
The Best Xbox One Headsets Tests Compared
Product |
True Score
|
Max Vol
|
Mic Quality
|
Speech To Noise
|
BT Latency
|
Non-BT Latency
|
Low-End Roll Off
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Steelseries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless For Xbox
| 83 |
|
|
|
|
|
|  $291.00 $350 $59 |
Turtle Beach Stealth Pro Wireless
| 82 |
|
|
|
|
|
|  $207.99 |
| 80 |
|
|
|
|
|
| $199.99 |
79 |
|
|
|
|
|
| $144.49 $180 $36 | |
78 |
|
|
|
|
|
|  $75.99 $150 $74 |
