Some gamers simply must have the latest and greatestnext-gen consolesas soon as they are available. However, with a library of first-party titles that don’t entice every gamer to upgrade to a PS5, the PS4 remains extremely popular. When it comes to accessories, PS4 users can experience many of the mostadvanced gaming headsetson the market, which offer compatibility with older consoles. The best headset for PS4 gamers supports Sony’s audio features while ensuring owners can upgrade to a PS5 or connect to other sources.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Gaming Headset
How to Find the Perfect PS4 Gaming Headset
The buying process is often challenging because of an endless assortment of PS4-compatible headsets. To simplify the task at hand, consider these factors first:
The headsets featured in this guide bring a next-generation listening experience to loyal PS4 gamers.
Game Rant’s Picks for the Best PS4 Gaming Headsets in 2024
Sony Pulse 3D Wireless Headset
As PlayStation continues to hold onto its exclusivity, it only makes sense that gamers would want something designed just for their favorite system. Sony answers the call with their Pulse 3D gaming headset, delivering a powerful device that pairs perfectly with both the PS4 and the PS5.The Sony Pulse 3D Wireless Headset is specifically designed to take advantage of 3D Audio on the PS4 and PS5. Gamers encounter moving layers of sound that change position depending on their movement in games. The Pulse 3D is available in several different colors to suit any gamer’s individual style.
The Pulse 3D is ahigh-quality PS5 headsetbuilt for a new generation of gaming on Sony’s latest console. However, it is also the best PS4 headset, fine-tuned for 3D Audio, featuring refined earpads and a headband strap for comfortable gaming. The headset has a sleek design that complements PlayStation consoles. The Sony Pulse 3D Wireless Headset is designed for gamers, with hidden noise-canceling microphones that allow gamers to chat with friends during gameplay. On the other hand, the lack of an external mic may scare away some potential buyers.
The Sony headset has easy-access controls that allow users to adjust audio and chat settings quickly. The device requires an internet connection and a PlayStation Network account to use all its features. Sony’s Pulse 3D Wireless also has a built-in rechargeable battery that provides up to a slightly lacking 12 hours of wireless play. It’s easy to connect to the PS5 or PS4 console using the wireless adapter, and it can also be connected to PS VR and mobile devices using the included audio cable. Buyers should also realize that these additional platforms do not support the built-in headset controls.
Considering the reasonable price of the Pulse 3D and its compatibility with Sony’s 3D audio formats, it’s the most sensible choice for PS4 gamers. For more on why this headset fits in perfectly with other PlayStation gear, readGame Rant’s full review of the Sony Pulse 3D.
Drop + EPOS PC38X Gaming Headset
The Drop + EPOS PC38X gaming headset is an upgraded version of the beloved PC37X. The new version comes with improved comfort, build quality, and sonic performance. With advanced audio technologies, the PC38X can deliver more accurate locational audio information, which might help the player score some extra kills or avoid the enemy. The drivers from EPOS deliver some of the best quality audio available. The headset has a noise-canceling microphone optimized to handle voice communications.
The name of the DROP + Epos PC38X headset doesn’t exactly roll off tongues, but its performance makes it a label worth remembering. This wired gaming headset continues the GSP 500 and GSP 600 legacy, sharing the same drivers with headsets praised for their audio fidelity. The over-ear open-back design of the PC38X is extremely comfortable, and the angled drivers play a huge role in the headset’s fantastic positional audio effects during gaming. AsFPS gaming gear, players can easily identify enemies approaching them before disaster strikes.
Through a wired analog connection, the Epos PC38X is compatible with nearly every device out there, including the PS4, PS5, PC, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. The wired headset is also one of the most comfortable for long gaming sessions, especially with the optional velour earpads included in the box. The PC38X shines during gaming and music listening, but some buyers may lament the lack of further customization with no available PC app.
Razer Kaira Pro for PlayStation
Razer brings the performance, style, and comfort the peripheral brand is known for to PlayStation gamers with the Razer Kairo Pro wireless headset. Thanks to the Razer TriForce 50mm drivers, listeners feel powerful bass along with distinctive low mid and high tones.The Razer Kaira Pro is one of the most comfortable gaming headsets ever designed with memory foam ear cushions and a soft padded headband that makes users forget they are wearing any device. The Kaira Pro will connect wirelessly to the PlayStation or most Bluetooth-compatible devices.
The Pulse 3D is not the onlywireless gaming headsetwith a PlayStation color scheme and support for the console’s trademark features. Razer has numerous PS4 headsets that are attractive options for gamers, but the wireless Kaira Pro offers some innovative features that make gaming more immersive. Using Razer HyperSense technology, the Kaira Pro intelligently responds to in-game events with haptic feedback vibrations that users can feel growling on their ears. Compared to older haptic feedback devices, the Kaira Pro’s vibrations are far more nuanced to the point where gamers can differentiate the intensity and location of explosions. This advanced haptic feedback also works with PCs and mobile devices and also enhances movies and music.
Beyond its HyperSense-powered haptic feedback, the Kaira Pro has the admirable qualities of other Razer headsets buyers look for. A substantial amount of memory foam padding lines the earcups and headband, making the headset pleasant to wear even after grinding in gaming sessions for hours on end. The Kaira Pro aims to accommodate all PlayStation gamers, and its earcups swivel back and forth and move up and down to fit any size of head. The sound quality on the headset is loud, balanced, and more than adequate with TriForce Titanium 50 mm drivers, but not significantly better than some less expensive options Razer sells.
The Razer Kaira Pro focuses on PlayStation users, with a wireless USB dongle that provides up to a 50-foot range on the PS4 and PS5. However, the adapter is also compatible with PCs, and an analog audio port is available to connect to controllers or other devices. Since the Kaira Pro utilizes a mobile app to change settings, it’s not the best option for PC gamers accustomed to using Windows software. Another selling point for the Kaira Pro is its Bluetooth connectivity and Razer SmartSwitch, which can automatically switch to a mobile device for incoming calls.
One area where the Kaira Pro comes up short is, surprisingly, with its detachable HyperClear Supercardioid mic. Strangely, even though similar mics perform well on other Razer headsets, voice quality is muddy on the Kaira Pro, though it does a fine job of filtering out background noise. Also, with various controls for volume, EQ presets, and wireless modes spread out across both earcups, a learning curve is definitely involved when trying out the Kaira Pro.
Overall, the Kaira Pro looks like a PlayStation peripheral and is the best headset for PS4 gamers who believe haptic feedback adds to a gameplay experience. Although its external microphone quality is disappointing, its comfort, Bluetooth connectivity, and a maximum 50-hour battery life add value to this Razer headset.
If a buyer is looking for a full analysis of the Xbox version of this headset, check outGame Rant’s review of the Razer Kaira Pro.
Razer Kraken V3 X Gaming Headset
The Razer Kraken V3 X is an ultra-comfortable and super lightweight gaming headset. A favorite of Esports competitors, the Kraken V3 X features Razer’s TriForce 40mm drivers for equally balanced high, low, and mid-tones. On Microsoft Windows, spatial audio surrounds gamers with positional effects, alerting them of approaching danger.The HyperClear Cardoid Mic captures voices directly at the mouth while Razer Chroma RGB effects give the headset a distinctive look at a budget price.
When choosing awired headset, PS4 gamers don’t have to spend a fortune on excellent sound quality. The Razer Kraken V3 X is a lightweight device at just 285 grams. Gamers will find further relief with a soft padded headband and memory foam ear pads covered in a soft but durable hybrid fabric. Some cheaper headsets are too compact for gamers, but the Razer Kraken V3 X has a versatile clamping force appropriate for smaller and larger heads.
The Razer Kraken V3 X connects to PlayStation consoles and PCs with a USB-A cable, which is essential since there is no analog audio cord. PlayStation gamers won’t have much use for the downloadable software that enables 7.1 surround sound on the headset, but the Kraken V3 X is a fine match for Sony’s 3D audio. Even on PCs, the Razer Synapse software has limited functionality, so console gamers aren’t missing out on much.
The Kraken V3 X’s 40 mm TriForce drivers keep mid and high tones audible, while other gaming headsets tend to overemphasize rumbling bass effects. The bendable HyperClear cardioid mic is a standout feature of the Kraken V3 X, as gamers can easily position it to point in the optimal direction. Gamers will find that the mic on this Razer headset makes voices sound more authentic than the tinny-sounding communications of other affordable headsets.
It should come as no shock that the Kraken V3 X’s build is mostly plastic, which helps to keep its weight down. However, this could impact the device’s longevity, especially with gamers who tend to abuse their gear. To add some distinctiveness to an otherwise basic black headset, the Kraken V3 X features RGB lighting on its earcups, even if the Synapse app is necessary for further customization.
Game Rant’sKraken V3 X reviewfound that the headset offered a balanced soundscape, an excellent microphone, and above-average comfort compared to otheraffordable wired headsets.
HyperX Cloud III Gaming Headset
The HyperX Cloud III is the follow-up to the ultra-popular Cloud II wired gaming headset, approved by Esports competitors. Featuring angled 53 mm drivers, the Cloud III sends sound directly on a path to eardrums for maximum effect. The Cloud III is exceptionally comfortable and is compatible with PCs and most consoles.
It isn’t easy to improve upon such a universally popular headset as the HyperX Cloud II, but the manufacturer rose to the challenge. The Cloud III is a wired headset without many standout capabilities. Instead, it’s an all-around impressive device with few, if any, weaknesses that has mass appeal among PS4 gamers.
Although the Cloud II was hardly a burden to wear, the Cloud III is more comfortable than ever, with thicker memory foam on the earcups and headband. The headband employs an aluminum construction that’s a great balance of flexibility and durability, so the Cloud III has mass appeal among gamers of any size. The HyperX Cloud II was a common piece of gear, keyboards, and mice thatmajor esports competitorswould bring to competitions. The Cloud III weighs in at 318 grams, so while not the lightest headset available, it’s portable enough to travel with.
Another incremental upgrade for the Cloud III over its predecessor is its larger microphone, which includes a mesh filter to better isolate multiplayer chatter from background noise. In addition, the mic has an LED indicator that lets gamers know if their voice input is on or off.
The 53 mm sound drivers of the Cloud III have also seen some refinements, with an angled construction that better emphasizes the subtle differences in explosions or footsteps during gameplay. Unfortunately, PS4 gamers won’t benefit much from the built-in DTS spatial audio, but the headset remains an excellent candidate for Sony’s 3D audio technology.
Even for a wired-only gaming headset, the HyperX Cloud is quite versatile. It allows gamers to connect to consoles, PCs, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices through USB-A, USB-C, or 3.5 mm analog audio cables. The Cloud III has a significant legacy to live up to, but it has made enough innovations over the Cloud II to earn the title of thebest headset for PS4 gamersamong mid-range options. If a buyer wants a more expensive cordless version of this headset, check outGame Rant’s review of the HyperX Cloud III Wireless.
Logitech G Astro A50 X Lightspeed
Now upgraded with breakthrough innovations in audio and connectivity, the new Logitech G ASTRO A50 X LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset + Base Station is the new flagship high-performance gaming headset for console players.In gaming, comfort, sound, connectivity, communications, and compatibility are the keys gamers look for in an audio solution. The A50 X combines the design of the original A50, a favorite of console gamers everywhere, with four breakthrough innovations in the console headset market.
PS4 owners don’t have to shy away from breakthrough technology that can benefit them now and in the future. The Logitech G Astro A50 X is the perfect headset for gamers with multiple consoles and PCs. As the follow-up to the Astro A50, the A50 X has more audiophile-worthy sound and a wireless HDMI base station that allows instantaneous switching between sources.
With bold space-age styling, the Astro A50 X is easily distinguishable from other headsets. The large earcups have a high degree of adjustability, sliding up and down on exposed piping attached to the device’s sides. While the included earcups aren’t the best at keeping outside noise from reaching eardrums, the Astro A50 X retains the modular features of its predecessor. Buyers can replace the fabric material lining the ear cushions and headband with a smooth leatherette alternative.
Instead of optical and analog connections, the A50 X relies on HDMI inputs specific to PlayStation and Xbox consoles. If a PS4 gamer also owns a PC, then the base station connects to gaming rigs with a USB-C cable. The necessary cabling gets fairly complicated since USB connections are also needed to control chat volume on consoles. An HDMI output sends video back togaming TVsand monitors, and since the component uses HDMI 2.1, features like Variable Refresh Rate aren’t lost. Once set up, the Playsync button on the A50 X toggles between active sources in a way that is not possible with competing headsets.
The innovative wireless base station undoubtedly contributes to the Astro A50 X’s high cost. Still, it’s far from the only upgrade PS4 gamers will appreciate withLogitech’s latest headset. To cater to the most fussy listeners, the A50 X includes graphene drivers that maintain a pristine and neutral sound. Weapon blasts sound convincing, but mid and high tones are easily distinguishable. PC gamers usually have the most control over a headset’s sound, but PS4 users benefit from a mobile app to adjust EQ profiles.
While very pricey, the Astro A50 X provides outstanding sound for PS4 gamers and the flexibility to move from platform to platform. Whether a buyer upgrades to a PS5 or also owns an Xbox or PC, the Astro A50 X is an excellent high-end headset.
Corsair HS80 MAX Wireless
Corsair HS80 MAX Wireless is a gaming headset designed to work seamlessly with various gaming platforms. The headset has dual connectivity with both gaming-grade 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth. The high-quality microphone allows crystal-clear communication.
Too often, console games feel left out of the RGB party. Fortunately, many gaming headsets with these lighting effects are compatible with the PS4, even if customization requires additional apps. The Corsair HS80 Max brings the iCue RGB lighting ecosystem to console gamers, which the company employs on many of itspopular keyboardsand mice. However, the headset’s excessive comfort, impressive battery life, and low-latency wireless performance also entices PS4 gamers.
The HS80 Max’s lighting includes illuminated logos on the earcups and an indicator to signal the flip-up microphone’s status. While fairly subdued, PS4 gamers can purchase theCorsair ST100 Headset Standfor more gaming flair. Buyers will need a PC with iCue software to customize the headset’s lighting fully. Otherwise, the HS80 Max’s design focuses on comfort, with plush ear pads lined with mesh fabric for enhanced breathability. The headset feels tight initially, but the strap adjusts enough to become supremely comfortable on all but the largest heads.
Wireless range is critical for PS4 gamers, who often sit relatively far from their consoles. Fortunately, the HS80 Max ships with a wireless USB dongle that boasts a reliable signal up to 50 feet away. Just as impressive, Corsair upped the bitrate of its low-latency wireless connectivity, and explosions now sound even more realistic. The soundscape emphasizes lower tones, which isn’t fantastic for all sources, but still allows PS4 gamers to recognize approaching danger.
Using a wireless headset while charging isn’t convenient for console gamers, so battery life takes on more importance. The HS80 Max’s battery pales only compared to theHyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless, providing up to 65 hours of playtime. RGB lighting reduces the headset’s longevity but will still outlast most competitors. Bluetooth connectivity togaming phonespreserves even more battery life, but simultaneous wireless audio with the USB dongle is not possible.
Capped off by a microphone that rivals some standalone alternatives, the HS80 Max is a worthy upgrade for PS4 gamers. The headset’s impressive wireless range is only enhanced by RGB lighting, which is normally available only to PC gamers. For another wireless Corsair headset with stellar build quality and performance, check out Game Rant’sreview of the Virtuoso RGB.
HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless
The headset has an incredible battery life of up to 300 hours, surpassing what other headsets offer for non-stop gaming. It has a 2.4GHz, low-latency connection that prevents breakage in the flow of sound between the gaming device and the headset. DTS Spatial Audio amplifies the sound, delivering it as clearly as possible so that users can get everything they need to win games.
After establishing itself as a manufacturer ofhigh-performance memoryin 2002, HyperX has become a maker of some excellent gaming headsets for PCs and consoles. Although the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless excels as aPC headset, it includes a wireless USB dongle compatible with the PS4 and PS5. The HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless is an impressive headset that is designed for gaming and offers long-lasting battery life. It has a fast 2.4GHz connection that provides wireless freedom, and it can last for up to 300 hours of gaming on a single charge, virtually eliminating theadvantages of wired headsets.
The headset also has HyperX Dual Chamber Drivers, a groundbreaking driver system tuning the mids and highs separately from the bass-heavy lows to deliver incredibly clear audio. The HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless is made for comfort, with plush signature HyperX memory foam and breathable leatherette that helps to keep listeners focused during marathon gaming sessions. It has a durable aluminum frame that helps to ensure that the headset can withstand the rigors of gaming on a daily basis.
Sony INZONE H9 Gaming Headset
The Sony Inzone H9 is a gaming headset that offers 360-degree spatial sound and a dual sensor noise-canceling technology, which both removes unwanted background noise and keeps the user aware of ongoing chat when Ambient Sound Mode is enabled. The headset is Discord Certified to provide clear communications via the flexible boom microphone with a flip-to-mute function.The headset supports Bluetooth connectivity for PC, PS4, PS5, and smartphones. Sony Inzone H9 is designed with comfort in mind and has a soft headband cushion and synthetic leather for the ear pads.
Although playing the most popular titles in a soundproof studio is ideal, it’s not practical for the vast majority of gamers. As a result, console and PC users often turn to noise-cancelling headsets to block out background distractions. Many gaming headsets employ passive noise cancellation, which relies on earcups with a tight fit, isolating gamers from the outside world. On the other hand,more expensive gaming headsets use active noise cancellation (ANC). Relying on internal mics to monitor environments, headsets like the Sony INZONE H9 produce a phase-inverted tone that neutralizes background sounds.
The Sony INZONE H9 is a high-end wireless headset advertised for compatibility with the PS5 and PC, but it also works well with the PS4. As a considerably more expensive option than thePulse 3D, the INZONE H9 is more comfortable for long gaming sessions. The large oval earcups contain plush memory foam earpads and are held together by a wide headband lined with plenty of cushioning. With trademark PlayStation styling, there is also no mistaking who manufactures the predominantly black and white INZONE H9.
The INZONE H9 connects to devices either using Bluetooth or the included wireless USB dongle. While the headset will work wirelessly with the PS4, PS5, and PC, it lacks a wired analog audio port, so connections toXbox controllersare not possible. The highlight of the INZONE H9 is its support for 360 spatial audio formats on the PlayStation and PC. Gamers using the headset have a competitive advantage with the ability to detect approaching enemies sooner than the opposition.
Out of the box, the INZONE H9 has a sound profile heavy on bass that makes rumbles and explosions sound more lifelike. The headset is not the best choice for music listeners without modifying the effects in PC software, but this is hardly a concern for most PS4 owners. A substantial-looking peripheral that is still fairly lightweight at 330 grams, the Sony INZONE H9 is the best headset for PS4 gamers to drown out background noise.
Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed
The Logitech Pro X 2 Lightspeed is the highly anticipated follow-up to the company’s flagship Logitech G Pro X wireless headset. The new Logitech G Pro X 2 features 50 mm Graphene drivers which provide a rich and well-balanced sound. Rotating memory foam earpads are both comfortable and also form a tight seal for excellent noise isolation. This headset has a 50-hour battery life and connects wirelessly to PCs and PlayStation consoles, or to the Nintendo Switch and mobile devices with Bluetooth.
TheLogitech G Pro X series of headsetshas a long history of excelling in competitive gaming. This latest version of the headset makes some modest improvements over past versions in sound quality, connectivity, and comfort. The wireless Pro X 2 can connect to PS4 and PS5 consoles through a long-range, low-latency Lightspeed USB dongle or analog audio cable. Bluetooth is also an option, but unfortunately, it doesn’t work simultaneously with Lightspeed wireless. RF wireless range is industry-leading at nearly 100 feet, and the Pro X 2 can last up to 50 hours on a single charge.
The type of driver in a gaming headset significantly affects sound quality. To achieve the most accurate and balanced soundscape through the Pro X 2, Logitech equips the device with 50 mm graphene drivers. Sounds tend to bounce around in thediaphragms in headsets, but the rigid graphene material helps to maintain clear and accurate tones. The overall sound prioritizes bass effects, which amplify explosions in FPS titles, though this isn’t the best setting for games that are heavy on dialogue. DTS Headphone X 2.0 7.1 surround sound is an option for PC gamers, but PS4 users must rely on Sony’s 3D audio to make the headset’s stereo sound more dynamic.
Multiplayer gaming demands clear and reliable communication with teammates. Fortunately, the 6 mm cardioid mic on the Logitech G Pro X 2 effectively cancels out background interference even without the Blue VO!CE filters that are available with PC software. The detachable boom microphone arm also makes traveling to tournaments with the Pro X 2 more feasible.
While previous models were hardly uncomfortable to wear, the earcups now swivel on the Pro X 2 to accommodate more gamers. Combined with a generous amount of cushioning on the headband and earpads, the headset is ideal to be worn for hours at a time.
With an appealing blend of comfort and sound quality expected with a Logitech Pro X headset, the improved Pro X 2 is the best PS4 headset for esports pros.
Audeze Maxwell Gaming Headset
The Audeze Maxwell Gaming Headset defies the notion that audiophile-grade headsets can’t be wireless or intended for gamers. The Maxwell simply leaves other wireless gaming headsets in the dust with its 90 mm planar magnetic drivers pumping out rumbling bass effects. The headset has a tank-like construction with a spring steel headband.The Maxwell Gaming Headset is available in two versions compatible with PlayStation or Xbox consoles, with either variety perfect for PC gamers. With just a 20-minute charge, the wireless headset can endure 80 hours of gameplay.
Audeze is a manufacturer known more for itsstudio-grade headphonesthan its gaming products. Nevertheless, they have launched several well-reviewed gaming headsets for PCs and consoles in the past, including the Mobius and Penrose. The company’s latest creation is the Maxwell, which delivers the best PS4 headset for demanding audiophiles.
What drives the powerful and rich sound of the Audeze Maxwell is its 90 mm planar magnetic drivers. The expansive surface area of the drivers with a flat diaphragm design allows for potent bass and the ability to differentiate low, mid, and high tones with an accuracy not experienced with even the best gaming headsets. The device feels like premium audio gear, constructed with aluminum yokes and a spring steel headband. The planar magnetic drivers and overall solid build lead to a hefty weight of 490 grams. However, the memory foam earpads combined with a suspension headband barely touching listeners make the Maxwell anything but a bother to wear.
The Audeze Maxwell is available in two versions and is compatible with PlayStation or Xbox consoles. The wireless headset can be connected to the PS4 in several ways, including through a USB wireless dongle, USB-C connection, or an analog audio cable attached to a controller. As a bonus, the Maxwell also supports the recent Bluetooth 5.3 standard, with audio quality rivaling that of many wired headsets.
The Maxwell doesn’t offer active noise cancellation, but its earpads form a tight seal, allowing effective passive noise cancellation. Unfortunately, its ear pads tend to get warm after extended gaming sessions with the headset. The Audeze Maxwell ranks among the most expensive PS4 headsets, but its unusually wide soundstage allows gamers to hear sound effects that are normally muffled or muted.
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro 2023 Edition
The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro offers the ultimate combination of comfort, sound quality, and reliable wireless connectivity. Razer’s 50mm TriForce drivers keep low, mid, and high tones separated for a more accurate soundscape. Gamers can wear the BlackShark V2 Pro for hours at a time, thanks to its combination of breathable memory foam ear cushions and a headband that adapts to any size of the head. In the 2023 edition of this headset, the detachable Razer Hyperclear cardioid mic now captures a wider range of human voice without background interference. Also, battery life has been improved substantially and now stands at 70 hours through Razer’s low-latency Hyperspeed Wireless USB adapter or Bluetooth.
Razer gaming headsets like the BlackShark V2 Pro are commonly found on esports circuits but also have value for casual gamers. Many qualities that competitive gamers look for, like generous onboard storage, benefit console gamers without easily accessible PCs. Beyond these conveniences, the BlackShark V2 Pro generates an accurate sound that makes gaming audio eerily lifelike.
The BlackShark V2 Pro sports the traditional helicopter pilot styling for which many Razer headsets are recognized. However, this enduring design applies minimal pressure to ears and heads while maintaining a highly adjustable and secure fit. With elements of the most premium headsets, aluminum reinforces the joints above the large oval earcups. The white version of the headset may entice PS4 gamers more than the black variety, with both lacking any RGB effects. Instead, the BlackShark V2 Pro focuses on performance that can give competitive gamers an edge.
Relying on 50 mm TriForce Titanium drivers, the BlackShark V2 Pro resists overemphasizing bass effects. Some gamers may find that the headset lacksdynamic spatial audio, but vital audio cues in FPS titles are never missed. On PCs, gamers can load finely-tuned EQ profiles that maximize the clarity of footsteps and distant weapon fire.
A manufacturer rarely touts the quality of a microphone more than a headset’s output, but Razer has every right to do so with the BlackShark V2 Pro. A detachable microphone extends far enough to reach the gamer’s mouth and has an exceedingly wide frequency response. Consequently, all voices (regardless of pitch) sound natural and free from background interference.
The 2023 version of the BlackShark V2 Pro includes several improvements, including a 70-hour battery life and USB-C quick charging. Without extraneous features like RGB lighting draining the battery, PS4 gamers can game all day for a week or more without recharging.
Considering this Razer headset has the most balanced sound and accurate mic of any headset in this price range, it’s a favorite among PS4 gamers. Game Rant’sreview of the BlackShark V2 Profound that it’s the best headset for PS4 competitive gamers looking to hone their skills.
The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless gaming headset from SteelSeries is a serious gamer’s tool. A gamer who wants the convenience and quality of a feature-rich wireless gaming headset need not look elsewhere. The headset’s premium high-fidelity drivers deliver a clear soundscape and a fully customizable experience with the Sonar Software. It supports 360-degree spatial audio for a more immersive gaming experience and helps users hear every audio cue around them clearly.With active noise-canceling technology enhanced by a four-mic hybrid system, gamers can use transparency mode to tune out any annoying background noises.
While it may seem like an expensive headset for aging PS4 consoles, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is also compatible with the PS5, PC, Mac, and Nintendo Switch through its DAC’s Multi-System USB ports. With this adapter, users can mix multiple sources and easily switch between them as well as to mobile devices through a Bluetooth connection. TheArctis Nova Pro is especially popular with Esports proslike Johan “N0tail” Sundstein. Perfect for competitive gaming, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless leads the pack of wireless PS4 headsets with an included extra battery, providing up to 36 hours of battery life.
With a high-end headset like the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, gamers get some premium features such as active noise cancellation to block out annoying background noises. The microphone is also top-tier, offering ClearCast Gen 2, which ensures that chat during multiplayer sessions is never spoiled by costly miscommunication. The booming and balanced sound combined with its ability to connect to and mix multiple sources makes the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless the best headset for PS4 owners that SteelSeries has to offer.
ReadGame Rant’s review of the Arctis Nova Pro Wirelessto learn more about how this headset’s extensive connectivity sets it apart from wireless competitors.
How to Buy New Headset Technology for a Last-Gen Console
Despite many new gaming headsets arriving to support the latest audio enhancements, PS4 gamers aren’t left behind. If a buyer has trouble deciding on the best PS4 headset, prioritizing these considerations above all others can quickly eliminate possibilities:
Build Quality
An inexpensive wired headset like theRazer Kraken V3 Xis exceptionally lightweight with an adequate sound output, but its plastic build makes it less likely to stand the test of time. On the other hand, theSteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wirelesscontains a heavy dose of aluminum and steel, ensuring that buyers won’t regret making a significant investment.
Sound Quality
Satisfying a demanding audiophile with a gaming headset can be a tough task. However, the wirelessAudeze Maxwellis essentially a pair of studio-worthy headphones modified to meet the needs of gamers. Its 90 mm planar magnetic drivers far surpass the capabilities of most gaming headsets with their detailed low, mid, and high tones. Similarly, theDrop + EPOS PC38Xis an open-backed headset that struggles to filter out background noise but gives listeners a more natural listening and recording experience.
Microphone Clarity
Esports pros, in particular, require gaming headsets with microphones that won’t fail them during intense competitions. The wirelessLogitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeedis ideal for multiplayer gamers, and its 6 mm cardioid mic filters out interference that could lead to costly communication breakdowns. Razer’sBlackShark V2 Proexcels at recording voices exactly how they sound in real-world conversations. Another popular choice for competitive gamers is theHyperX Cloud III, which boasts a large microphone with a mesh filter to enhance voice clarity.
Wired vs. Wireless
Wireless headsets tend to cost quite a bit more than wired alternatives, which is a consideration with an aging console like the PS4. Also, manywireless PS4 controllershave analog audio jacks, allowing wired headsets to connect with reasonably short cables.
Wireless headsets are an attractive option for gamers who dread having to spend time on cable management. The best wireless PS4 headsets allow for rock-solid connections, with the benefit of working with PCs and other consoles with minimal fuss. In general, the sound quality of wireless headsets will struggle to match that of wired competitors. Still, the most high-end candidates like theSony INZONE H9andSteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wirelessare exceptions.
As Game Rant’s choice for the best PS4 headset, theSony Pulse 3Dremains the most sensible choice for many gamers. Sony’s highly-rated wireless headset combines simple connectivity, respectable sound quality, and support for Sony’s 3D audio features. However, deciding on a PS4 headset comes down to what peripherals will work best in a gaming setup. Most headsets in this guide are versatile enough to work with many different sources and are ready for PS5 upgrades.
FAQ
Q: What are some important factors to consider when buying a gaming headset?
There are many factors to consider. The first is compatibility. Does the headset link with your PS4? Make sure to consult the official website or manual of your headset before you make a purchase.
Q: Can I use a wired headset with a wireless device?
It is generally possible to use a wired headset with a wireless device, but you may need an adapter to do so. For example, if you want to use a wired headset with a phone, you may need a Bluetooth adapter that plugs into the headset’s 3.5mm audio jack. Some headsets may also come with a detachable cable that allows you to use them as either a wired or wireless headset.
Q: Do gaming headsets work with other devices, such as phones or laptops?
Many gaming headsets are designed to be multi-platform compatible, which means that they can be used with a variety of devices, such as phones, laptops, and tablets. However, some gaming headsets may only be compatible with certain types of devices, so it is important to check the compatibility of a headset before purchasing it.
