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Last Updated on Aug-11-2023 – Updated the recommended headsets.
Whether you dream of taking home a massive cash prize in an international competition or simply want to experience the most engaging gaming experience possible, there’s one piece of kit that separates the pros from the amateurs – a reliable, high-quality gaming headset.
So, we’ve gathered the top headsets used by pro gamers worldwide. We ranked and reviewed them based on their durability and reliability. In addition, we reviewed overall specs related to audio and mic quality, comfort, battery life, and more.
At a glance…
In our opinion, Logitech G Pro X is the most durable gaming headset used by Pro Gaming Players in 2023. Made of premium material for a solid & weighty build, it still did a great job for long gaming sessions while offering a consistent, well-balanced sound. Suppose you love the gaming headset performance but not the looks. Logitech G Pro X looks sleek and more like a studio headphone that can revolutionize your perception of a gaming headset.
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Wireless is our #1 choice for the most P/P headset. BlackShark V2 Pro “wows” users with its insane audio quality, and you can even customize the sound! And all the above is at a totally worth it price.
This year’s Highest-Sound-Fidelity headset belongs to Sennheiser HD 800 S. This comfortable-fit headset converts a very neutral/detailed sound, creating a realistic, spacious listening experience to transport you to another world of sound.
- Perfect for: Understated online multiplayer gamers who are serious about team comms.
- Perfect for: Gamers who prefer a clutter-free setup.
- Perfect for: Strict listeners who want to experience high-fidelity audio at home.
Apex. Valorant. Overwatch. The competitive gaming scene is as exciting as it’s ever been, and it’s only getting bigger and better.
DOTA 2 holds the mantle for the biggest prize awarded thus far in esports history, with an astonishing $34.3 million awarded to those competing at TI9 in 2019 [1].
As these pros typically fly from country to country to compete in their respective games, their chosen gaming accessories stand out as good examples to look for. This is if you want gear that can withstand a decent amount of use and abuse.
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Four things to consider when choosing the best gaming headset
To give you an idea of what to expect from the best gaming headsets out there, we’ve compiled four things you should keep in mind when scouting for your perfect pair.
1. Do you want a gaming headset OR gaming headphones?
Gaming headphones are regular headphones for which you need to get a separate microphone.
They’re typically used for music enjoyment but can be repurposed for gaming–though lugging the external microphone may be a hassle. Audiophiles who crave crisp, immersive sound choose this option.
Gaming headsets, on the other hand, are headphones with a built-in microphone and optimized gaming features.
They’re all-inclusive, give you an edge while gaming because of special features, but the high-fidelity audio you may have gotten with an audiophile headphone is a tad bit compromised. Hardcore pro gamers who mean business go for these.
Here’s our Rugged Rating review of the best gaming headsets that give you the most out of both worlds.
2. What’s Your Gaming Platform?
Although our recommended gaming headsets are compatible with every game system–be it PC, Xbox, Playstation, and whatnot. Answering this question is still important to choose the most compatible and optimized gaming headset–like surround sound isn’t available with just any system, for example. There can be a gaming headset offering immersive audio solely for Playstation, though.
Generally speaking, headsets with a 3.5mm connection should work on all platforms. But, certain software-dependent features may impact seamlessness or compatibility, to begin with.
3. Wired vs. Wireless Gaming Headsets: What will it be?
A wired gaming headset would be constantly tethered to your gaming console. You could enjoy the great sound quality and talk-time from an unlimited power source. But you’d be sacrificing some mobility.
On the other hand, a gaming headset with wireless functionality allows you to move freely, ensuring that your console doesn’t go flying with you. The catch, of course, is limited battery life. You might have to pause in-game communications to charge your wireless headset.
4. Build Quality
Ever rage quit? We’ve all been there and done that. Every gamer knows their headsets go through some heavy wear and tear. A durable build quality means that the material won’t erode, and the headband won’t snap. But, great build quality also means spacious and light ear cups, flexible head cushions, and “just right” clamping force for maximum comfortability.
A comfortable listening experience means less fidgeting, and more importantly, there’s less risk of ear and neck pain or skin rashes.
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What are the best gaming headsets?
In a category as broad as gaming headsets, you may be wondering how we chose our top picks.
We are trying to answer ‘who wins in the battle for the best, most durable gaming headset?’.
We’ve analyzed which gaming headphone models are the most used amongst the biggest and highest-earning pro gamers in the world for the answer. These guys know their stuff and will use only gaming gear that gives them the biggest advantage in the arena.
We used data provided by prosettings.net – which is the best source on what gaming gear the pro players use in various games. Then, we compiled the data from prosettings.net into charts for a better overview. Take a look below to get a visual breakdown of the most-used headsets by pro gamers:
If you’re looking for a headsets charts breakdown by the most popular games right now, you can check this file here.
*The Overall usage by Pro players below is all updated as the 2023 record from latest Prosetting.net stats.
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But for us, great sound quality and a stellar mic alone don’t cut it.
To make it onto the Rugged Rating list, these headsets need to be built to last – with a strong, sturdy construction able to take a beating, reliable performance when it matters most, and promises that are backed with generous warranties and guarantees.
We believe that the products you buy, especially expensive gaming headsets, should last a lifetime (or come close to it). So, we will also be ranking our picks from the gaming headset market according to our Rugged Rating BIFL system. Which looks something like this:
- Rugged: 50% weight of total score – Durable materials, sturdy build quality, impact resistance.
- Repairable: 20% weight of total score – Replaceable mic and/or ear pads, generous warranty, satisfaction guarantees.
- Upgradable: 15% weight of total score – Modular design, removable parts, and/or cables.
- Multipurpose: 15% weight of total score – Gaming, streaming, audio-only, mobile call use, and generous cable length.
Let’s get into it.
1. HyperX Cloud II Wireless: Immersive Gaming Experience
Frequency Response: 15 Hz – 25 kHz | Wireless: Yes | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC): No | Ambient Noise Attenuation: on average -12db | Cable Length: Detachable 3.2ft (1m) + Extension 6.6ft (2m)
Overall usage by Pro players:
The most popular choice for competitive gamers in 7 of the 9 games we analyzed, the HyperX Cloud II gaming headphones are the go-to choice for pro gamers–and for good reason.
Why is it so beloved by gamers worldwide? Well, it’s probably because the headset supports the needs of all types of gamers thanks to its ‘plug-and-play’ design.
Its 53mm drivers offer crisp and rich audio, even without the surround sound, and the closed-cup design eliminates ambient noise to a respectable degree.
Durability | Cloud II
The HyperX Cloud II is ready for all kinds of international gaming misadventures. The headset is composed of a solid aluminum frame and can withstand typical drops and even a few rage-quits here and there.
Additionally, the Cloud II features a totally modular design, meaning you can replace all the parts from the mic down to the cables if they break or you want to upgrade.
To top it off, the headset comes with a nice 2-year warranty with free technical support.
- Modular design
- Two colorways
- Generous warranty
- 7.1 surround sound limited to PCs
PERFECT FOR: Enthusiastic online gamers who play on multiple platforms.
- Headphones fit type:Over-Ear
- [Gaming-grade wireless with long battery life]: Cut the cord and roam free with low-latency 2.4GHz...
- [DTS Headphone:X Spatial Audio]: DTS Spatial Audio will help amp up your audio advantage and...
- [Noise-cancelling detachable mic with LED mute indicator]: The detachable noise-cancelling mic is...
- [Built-in mic monitoring]: Listen in on your own voice to keep you from getting too loud and to make...
Last update on 2023-08-21 at 19:05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. Logitech G Pro X Wireless Lightspeed Gaming Headset: Great Build with Uncompromised Audio Precision
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20 kHz | Wireless: Yes | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC): No | Ambient Noise Attenuation: on average -15db | Cable Length: Detachable 4.9ft (1.5m) + Extension 6.6ft (2m)
Overall usage by Pro players:
Holding the crown for the #1 choice of gaming headset for competitive League of Legends players (based on data provided by prosettings.net), the Logitech G Pro X is a significant step up in quality (and also in price) from its predecessor.
With Logitech’s acquisition of microphone makers Blue, they were able to zone in on the biggest problem of its last generation G Pro headset – the microphone.
With expansive software to fine-tune your voice quality with filters and presets, you can treat your teammates to crisp, clear callouts that can be configured for specific games and audio environments.
The 50mm drivers are not the largest on the list, but the excellent sound quality that’s delivered from these headphones needs to be heard to be believed. The soundscape is perfectly balanced, with strong, concussive booms that never seem to overpower the lighter, higher-frequency sounds from gunfire and teammates.
Durability | G Pro X
The build quality is something that never goes unnoticed by reviewers and users of the Logitech G Pro X. They feel robust and premium, and look more like music studio headphones than gaming ones, which some people will prefer to the typical bright, flashy gamer aesthetic.
With a mix of premium steel and aluminum, the gaming headset is tough and weighty but can be worn comfortably for long periods thanks to the leatherette memory foam cups, which can be switched to a more breathable velour.
The mic is fully detachable, and Logitech includes x2 audio cables with in-line volume control and mute functions and a USB DAC with an advanced sound card for tournament-level audio.
On par with the HyperX Cloud II, the Logitech G Pro X comes with a suitable 2-year limited hardware warranty.
- Premium headset build and materials
- Amazing, well-balanced audio
- Blue microphone with audio customization software
- Only one colorway
PERFECT FOR: Understated online multiplayer gamers who are serious about team comms.
- Based on the award-winning PRO Gaming Headset design, the PRO X Wireless headset features...
- High performance PRO X gaming headset with Lightspeed wireless technology, up to 20-plus hours of...
- Next generation DTS Headphone: X 2.0 7.1 surround sound channel with object-based surround sound for...
- Advanced PRO-G 50 millimeter drivers deliver clear and precise sound imaging with improved bass...
- Soft memory foam earpads with your choice of premium passive noise-canceling leatherette or soft,...
Last update on 2023-08-21 at 19:06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. Wireless Gaming Excellence with Audio Quality: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro
Frequency Response: 12 Hz – 28,000 Hz | Wireless: Yes | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC): No | Ambient Noise Attenuation: On average -26db | Cable Length: 4.27ft (1.3m)
Overall usage by Pro players:
The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro 2023 is an upgraded version of the BlackShark V2 Pro 2020: longer battery life, better microphone experience, and Bluetooth support. At a great price, BlackShark V2 Pro 2023 offers killer audio quality, a functional & comfortable design, and high-definition voice quality.
Not much different in design versus the previous version, the V2 Pro 2023 aluminum hinges bring with them a futuristic vibe. They look sleek while not feeling like a “burden” on your head.
V2 Pro 2023 “wows” users with its insane audio quality. THX Spatial Audio creates a 360-degree soundscape while its 50 mm drivers deliver immersive & realistic sound. Their sound packs extra bass to emphasize game sound effects like footsteps, which helps you quickly react when “someone” is around.
Good news: You can fine-tune your audio profiles with Razer’s easy-to-use software for different sound modes and game genres.
Durability | BlackShark V2 Pro
Although the metal hinges, and scratch-resistant plastic ears cup are a bit flimsy, BlackShark V2 Pro 2023 still has an okay build. It has a leatherette-covered headband, cloth memory foam earpads (also for noise isolation), and is mostly made of plastic. There’s also a mesh grille to protect the detachable mic.
It’s durable, but not very flexible. BlackShark V2 Pro 2023 is bulky, and the ear cups can’t be swiveled or folded. That also said, the limited motion range of the ear cups doesn’t work for larger heads.
With +70 hours of continuous playback time, the improved battery in the 2023 version is also remarkable. Yet, just like the Logitech G PRO X 2 LIGHTSPEED Wireless, you can’t use them on Xbox since they come in one variant only and do not have analog support.
- Excellent overall mic performance.
- You can customize audio sound via companion software.
- High-quality audio provides an immersive gaming experience.
- Multipurpose functionality: Accommodates a variety of platforms and devices.
- Prone to inconsistencies in audio delivery.
- No channel mixing, can't use it on Xbox consoles.
- Not for larger heads, less comfortable for long gaming sessions.
PERFECT FOR: Gamers who prefer a clutter-free setup.
- RAZER HYPERCLEAR SUPER WIDEBAND MIC — By covering a wider frequency range of sound, this next-gen...
- RAZER TRIFORCE TITANIUM 50MM DRIVERS — With titanium-coated diaphragms for added clarity, our new,...
- RAZER HYPERSPEED WIRELESS TECHNOLOGY — With its industry-leading 2.4GHz wireless connection, enjoy...
- PRO-TUNED FPS AUDIO PROFILES — Tuned with some of the top esports athletes in the world, listen...
- NOISE-ISOLATING EARCUPS WITH ULTRA-SOFT MEMORY FOAM — The headset’s closed earcups conform to...
Last update on 2023-08-21 at 18:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro with Durable Design: Versatile Wireless Gaming
Frequency Response: 10 – 22,000 Hz | Wireless: Yes | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC): Yes | Ambient Noise Attenuation: Passive noise isolation | Cable Length: 6ft (1.8m)
Overall usage by Pro players:
If the price cannot hold you back from a great all-purpose gaming headset, then SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro delivers on every front. It offers excellent sound quality, active noise canceling (ANC), comfort, and a wireless transmitter with built-in customization controls. That explains why many pro players are still happy to spend $370 to scoop it up!
The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless has a good-sounding frequency response. An advanced complex of premium high-fidelity drivers (deliver clear and detailed sound), a hi-res certified GameDAC Gen 2 (to enhance sound resolution & reduce distortion), and a pro-grade parametric EQ (allows you to customize the sound precisely.)
Care about cross-platform compatibility? Switching to another platform is never that easy with Arctis Nova Pro. It can wirelessly connect to both PC (Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, VR) and smartphone at once!
Durability | Nova Pro
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless presents solid build quality, durability, and functional features/benefits for gamers. Cramming into one more game now won’t make you miss any calls.
The ear cups have an adequate range of motion; however, they still don’t seem to be “out of the box” for a gaming design with its bulky design. If you have a large head, the Arctis Nova Pro might have a very snug fit.
The best part ? With two hot-swappable battery packs, the headset provides up to 20 hours of playtime.
- Comfortable and well-built.
- Excellent signature sound quality.
- Long battery life with two hot-swappable batteries (40 hours of wireless gaming).
- Extremely versatile to multiple devices/platforms or wireless music streaming and phone calls (via Bluetooth 5.0).
- The costly price tag.
- ANC isn't very effective, consistent.
- The protrusion (inside the ear cups) might be discomfort for long gaming sessions.
PERFECT FOR: Those who wants a do-it-all gaming headset: noise canceling, good sounding, customizable, and excellent comfy.
- Almighty Audio - Experience ultimate clarity and sound quality with Premium High Fidelity Drivers....
- 360° Spatial Audio - Immersive surround sound transports you to the gaming world, letting you hear...
- Active Noise Cancellation - Immerse yourself in your virtual world as a specialized 4-mic hybrid...
- Infinity Power System - Hot-swap between using one battery while charging the other to keep your...
- OLED Base Station - Dual USB ports let you connect your PC, Xbox, Mac, PlayStation, or Switch, swap...
Last update on 2023-08-21 at 18:35 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. Sennheiser HD 800 S Headset for Discerning Gamers: Unrivaled Audiophile Gaming
Frequency Response: 4 Hz – 51,000 Hz | Wireless: No | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC): A ring radiator transducer | Ambient Noise Attenuation: No | Cable Length: 9.8ft (3m)
Overall usage by Pro players:
Fret between a gaming headset and a headset for music is sooo yesterday...
Huge shoutout to The Sennheiser HD 800 S, a famous gaming headphone model among audiophiles and music enthusiasts! This comfortable-fit headset offers a very neutral sound profile that creates a realistic, spacious listening experience to transport you to another world of sound.
Once you start using Sennheiser HD 800 S, there’s no turning back! And the sound is what we’re talking about. The most outstanding feature – the 56mm Ring Radiator dynamic transducer system (the largest driver ever used in a headphone) produces a wide frequency range, from 4 Hz to 51,000 Hz, with the lowest distortion and highest accuracy. HD 800 S also converts a more natural, detailed sound with enhanced clarity and realism thanks to the acoustic absorber.
Plus, Sennheiser has an innovative ear cup design (shaped like a hemisphere and mounted at a precise angle) that creates an illusion of soundstage space and depth to let you mentally “enter” the studio and enjoy the music.
There are drawbacks, however. With less bass or warmth, it lacks versatility for different music genres. Moreover, it requires a good (usually expensive) amp and DAC to power it correctly.
Durability | HD 800 S
The Sennheiser HD 800 S features a reliable build quality with high-quality materials to perform consistently for long-life use. Its functional design also aims to provide audiophiles/music enthusiasm a natural, spacious listening and comfortable experience.
- Breathable, soft, and durable pads
- Metal mesh and a plastic cover protect the driver
- A snapback adjustment mechanism for a perfect fit
- A cable that is reinforced with Kevlar with gold-plated connectors
- Come with a carrying pouch and two different cables with appropriate lengths for various setups
- For durability & comfort, Sennheiser made the ear cup with premium material as metal and microfiber.
Here’s the con. Its open-back design leaks a lot of sound and doesn’t isolate much noise, and that’s why this headset might not be the most suitable for noisy environments or portable use.
Bottle up. For those who don’t mind the high price, the HD 800 S is a non-negotiable choice for its finest detail in performance, design, and features.
- Well-balanced sound.
- Audiophile-Grade Sound Quality - a top choice for all audiophiles.
- Premium Comfort: Lightweight & ergonomic design made of high-quality materials for a sturdy, premium feel.
- Hefty price tag
- Require powerful amplifier
- Less generous cable length
PERFECT FOR: Fans of high-fidelity audio.
- Open back, around ear, reference class dynamic headphone
- 56mm ring radiator transducers are the largest drivers ever used in dynamic headphones
- Innovative absorber technology reduces unwanted frequency response peaks allowing all the music...
- Unique ear cup design directs sound waves to the ear at a slight angle to create an impressively...
- Includes two connecting cables: single ended 1/4 inches And balanced 4. 4 mm Pentacon cable
Last update on 2023-08-21 at 18:48 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Comparison Table
| Product | Features | RUGGED RATINGS | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Most Durable |
| 8.1 | Check Latest Price |
 |
| 7.8 | Check Latest Price |
Best Value for Money | Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Wireless
| 7.4 | Check Latest Price |
 | SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
| 7.2 | Check Latest Price |
Highest Sound Fidelity |
| 6.7 | Check Latest Price |
Rugged Ratings’ Recommendation for the Best Gaming Headset
What’s the best pro-gaming headset that is built to last?
It’s a tough question, but Logitech G Pro X has all the reasons to take the top spot as the best gaming headset. With a tough frame and modern design, you can get years and years of solid use out of them.
The build quality and design of this thing is top-notch, bleeding elegance and professionalism. The combination of amazingly well-balanced audio with Blue’s next-level microphone technology makes the G Pro X one of the best choices for online multiplayer gamers. For its price point, it’s probably one of the best value deals in gaming tech right now.
But if your budget is a bit more generous, we recommend the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Wireless gaming headset. BlackShark V2 Pro Wireless offers killer audio quality, a functional (still comfortable, of course) design, and comes with excellent quality micro. The headset also has a longer battery life, up to 70 hours. Now, you can use V2 Pro wireless without fearing it might run out of power too fast.
– Demoted Models – not anymore in the 2023 top list –
Sennheiser Game Zero – Best for audiophiles
Bose QC20 – Best noise cancellation
HyperX Cloud Alpha – A great Cloud II alternative
Astro A40 – Best for streamers
FAQ
Which gaming headset lasts the longest?
In the affordable segment, the Logitech G Pro X headset brings you a rugged, premium look with a mix of steel and aluminum design. It doesn’t just look that way. The Logitech G Pro X headset is top-of-the-line, rigid, but comfortable to wear all day long.
How long do gamer headphones last?
Modern gaming headsets last between 2-5 years. Good news! You can lengthen their longevity to 7 years with a proper cleaning routine.
What headset do most pro gamers use?
The HyperX Cloud II gaming headset is the one go-to choice for pro gamers. Thanks to its plug-and-play design, HyperX supports all the needs of gamers.
How can I make my headphones last longer?
- Mind the cable.
- Keep them clean.
- Protect the weak points.
- Store headsets properly.
- Only pay for quality headsets.
- Replace the headphone pad, micro, and battery occasionally, even if you’re doing it with “aftermarket” components.
Are HyperX headphones durable?
Even though their design might look breakable, the HyperX’s aluminum frame is sturdy enough to withstand constant use.
Why do pro COD players wear two headsets?
Professional COD players often wear two headsets. One for hearing the game sound, and the other, an oversized pair of headphones, for sound cancellation with a mic to listen to their teammates.
How often should I replace my gaming headset?
You don’t need to change your gaming headset…IF it has replaceable parts. We recommend replacing the battery every 1-2 years, 3-6 months for the ear cushion and microphone. Once it distorts at high volumes, it’s time to upgrade your headphones.
Does Logitech make a good headset?
Logitech has been making gaming headsets for just as long as there have been gaming headsets at all, pumping out products of generally decent quality across a wide range of prices.
Which brand of headphones lasts the longest?
Logitech, HyperX, SteelSeries, and Bose are leading manufacturers producing rugged headphones.
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