Solo explorers
If ambience, music and directional cues matter to your enjoyment of exploration games, compare the audio features available on your actual platform rather than relying on a surround-sound label alone.
Who is this for?
Long-session players
If you wear a headset for extended stretches, adjustment, cushion material, weight and how warm the earcups feel may matter more to you than driver terminology.
Multi-device gamers
If you move between PC, console and mobile, or use voice chat, check each device’s connection method and whether the microphone and enhanced audio features work through it.
What matters when choosing?
Start with the device and connection you will use, then consider fit and game audio; room brightness is a display concern, not a reason to favour one headset audio feature.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Exploration audio | Check whether a spatial-audio mode works with your platform and game, and whether it requires an app. | If I play alone for the ambience and off-screen cues, I want audio that helps me follow the world around me. Around 27% of consumers put exploration audio first. |
| Long-session comfort | Consider headband adjustment and cushion material; try the fit where possible. | When a session runs long, pressure or heat can distract me even if I like the sound. Comfort is the primary concern for around 27% of consumers. |
| Platform and connection | Confirm the device-specific connection, microphone operation and any adapter or software needed. | I switch devices and do not want a headset whose chat or audio features work only on the other platform. Around 33% of consumers prioritise connection certainty. |
| Chat and household noise | Check microphone support for your setup and whether the earcups give you suitable passive isolation. | If I chat while others are nearby, I need my voice to come through without continually raising the game volume. For around 13% of consumers, chat and noise management come first. |
Buying pitfalls
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Assuming surround sound works on every device
A surround or 3D-audio label does not establish support across platforms. Razer says the BlackShark V2 X’s advertised 7.1 feature is available only on Windows 11; Sony describes 3D Audio for supported PS5 games.
Check basic audio, microphone use and enhanced audio separately for the device and connection you intend to use.
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Assuming wireless always means less fuss
Wireless removes a listening cable but introduces charging and connection-mode checks. Sony states up to 30 hours of battery life for PULSE Elite, while Logitech G states up to 50 hours for PRO X 2 LIGHTSPEED; neither figure promises that duration in every setup.
Choose wireless if its connection and charging routine suit you. If you prefer wired listening, confirm that your device accepts the headset’s cable connection.
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Treating comfort specifications as a fit guarantee
Adjustment, cushion materials and weight can help narrow a shortlist, but pressure and warmth depend on the wearer.
Try the fit early where possible, and check the retailer’s applicable return policy before buying.
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Increasing volume to cover distractions
The World Health Organization notes that sound level and listening duration both affect hearing risk.
Keep volume at a comfortable level, take listening breaks and consider fit or suitable isolation rather than repeatedly turning the sound up.
Brands to consider
SteelSeries
The Arctis Nova 7 is a reference point for buyers considering multi-platform wireless gaming and simultaneous game and Bluetooth audio.
- SteelSeries specifies four-point fit adjustment, breathable cushions and spatial-audio features for the Nova 7.
- Check the exact Nova 7 variant and feature support on your device, particularly for software-dependent functions.
Logitech G
PRO X 2 LIGHTSPEED is relevant if you want wireless gaming, Bluetooth and a 3.5 mm wired option in one headset.
- Logitech G specifies leatherette and velour earpads, giving buyers a choice of materials.
- Confirm which connection modes and chat functions work with your platform; the choice of earpads does not guarantee personal comfort.
PlayStation
PULSE Elite is a PS5-centred option for buyers interested in PlayStation Link and 3D Audio in supported games.
- Sony specifies Bluetooth dual-device connectivity and up to 30 hours of battery life for PULSE Elite.
- Check connection and feature support before choosing it for a device outside your PlayStation setup.
Razer
BlackShark V2 X represents a wired 3.5 mm route for buyers who do not need wireless listening.
- Razer specifies closed earcups and a 240 g weight for the BlackShark V2 X.
- It is wired, and Razer limits its advertised 7.1 surround feature to Windows 11.
Headsets on Joybuy
These headsets offer choices for PS5-focused play, switching between gaming devices and wired listening. Match the individual model’s connection to your setup before choosing; the products below are not a ranking of sound or comfort.
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ASUS ROG Pelta Wireless Gaming Headset – Black
Consider this wireless model if you move between gaming devices. Confirm the connection supported by each device and whether any software-based surround feature will be available in your setup.
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Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset – White
A PS5-centred choice if you want PlayStation Link and 3D Audio in supported games. Sony states up to 30 hours of battery life; check connection and feature support for any other device you use.
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Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 3 Wireless – PS5, PS4, PC, White
Consider this wireless headset if you alternate between the named PlayStation devices and PC. Check the required connection mode and voice-chat support for any additional device.
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Logitech ASTRO A10 Gen 2 Wired Headset – White
A wired option if you would rather avoid charging. Confirm that your controller or device has a compatible 3.5 mm connection, and assess the fit for longer sessions.
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Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen3 Wireless – PS5, PS4, PC, Black
Consider this wireless model for the named PlayStation devices or PC. Check the connection mode and microphone support for your setup; choose another route if wired listening is essential.
Frequently asked questions
Does a bright room require a special gaming headset?
No. Brightness affects viewing conditions, while your headset choice should rest on platform compatibility, fit, connection and the audio features you will use.
Will virtual surround work on every device?
No. Razer specifies Windows 11 for the BlackShark V2 X’s advertised 7.1 feature, while Sony describes 3D Audio for supported PS5 games. Check the feature’s device, game and software conditions before buying.
How can I manage volume during long sessions?
Keep the volume down and take listening breaks rather than turning it up to cover distractions. The World Health Organization advises no more than 60% of maximum device volume where practical and staying below an 80 dB average when monitoring is available.
How should I dispose of an old headset in the UK?
Use an applicable electrical-equipment recycling or take-back route rather than putting the headset in ordinary household waste. GOV.UK explains that UK waste electrical and electronic equipment rules aim to support recovery, reuse and recycling; check your local authority or retailer for an available route.