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Last Updated on Oct-10-2022 – Added more answers in the FAQ section.
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, ranking and reviewing them based on their durability and reliability as well as overall spec as it relates to audio and mic quality, comfort, battery life, and more.
At a glance…
In our opinion, HyperX Cloud II is the best, most durable gaming headset used by Pro Gaming Players. It’s very durable – frame, earcups, and cable. It has excellent sound and mic with controls, and it’s compatible with all gaming platforms. All the above at a reasonable price.
- Perfect for: Enthusiastic online gamers who play on multiple platforms.
- Perfect for: Understated online multiplayer gamers who are serious about team comms.
- Perfect for: Those who are looking for a solid gaming-audio-only solution at a reasonable price.
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].
And 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 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.
In this Rugged Rating review, we’ve scoured the internet for the best gaming headsets that give you the best of both worlds so that you can be 100% happy with your gaming setup.
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.
Most of our recommendations will be wired headsets with long connecting cables–offering you the best of both worlds. We believe that, for the most part, wired headsets are the way to go because when gaming, we naturally remain stationary and closer to the screen for long periods—wired headsets aid that kind of experience, wireless headsets do not.
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.
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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 – Best overall
Frequency Response: 15 Hz – 25 kHz | Wireless: No | 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 #1 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.
The 3.5mm jack can be used as a PC gaming headset or plugged into Xbox Series S|X and PlayStation models, Macs, Mobiles, and VR sets. The headset can also be routed through the included USB cable with a sound card to PCs to enjoy the 7.1 surround sound.
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.
The included 3.5mm and USB cables are braided for extra durability, and are 3 and 6-feet, respectively, which is a generous length for larger setups.
We love that these gaming headsets include a spare set of ear cups with a cloth material instead of the standard memory foam leatherette cups. You can switch to whichever feels more comfortable in environments with variable temperatures.
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.
- Designed for comfort: Exceptionally comfortable memory foam ear cushions and padded leatherette...
- Supreme audio quality: Large 53 millimeter drivers provide high-quality audio. Hear in-game details...
- 7.1 virtual surround sound: Truly immerse yourself in your games with hardware-driven virtual 7.1...
- Passive noise cancellation: The closed ear cup design blocks out outside distractions to keep you in...
- Built to last: The solid, durable aluminum frame is built to withstand the blows of daily use
Last update on 2021-08-16 at 01:32 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. Logitech G Pro X – Best for online multiplayer
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20 kHz | Wireless: No | 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.
- Detachable pro grade microphone featuring real time Blue Voice technology, including noise reducer,...
- Next gen 7.1 and object based surround sound for greater in game positional, distance, and object...
- Soft memory foam ear-pads with your choice of premium passive noise canceling leatherette or soft,...
- Built to last with a durable aluminum fork and steel headband. Impedance - 35 Ohm
- Advanced PRO G 50 millimeter drivers deliver clear and precise sound imaging with improved bass...
Last update on 2021-08-16 at 01:32 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. Sennheiser Game Zero – Best for audiophiles
Frequency Response: 15 Hz – 28 kHz | Wireless: No | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC): No | Ambient Noise Attenuation: on average -3.5db | Cable Length: Detachable 3.9ft (1.2 m) + Extension 9.8ft (3m)
Overall usage by Pro players:
You may be somewhat surprised to see Sennheiser on the list, known mostly for its range of professional studio headphones.
However, the Sennheiser Game Zero is a popular choice amongst Rainbow Six: Siege players, probably owed to the exceptional audio clarity that allows one to accurately hear an enemy through a door or around a corner. If you’re purchasing a Game Zero, you’re probably doing it for the audio quality, which is unsurprisingly its strongest feature.
It delivers high-clarity audio via a rated impedance of 50 ohms, meaning it can be used with basically any onboard sound card, no external amplification necessary. The bass is somewhat muted in favor of front-and-center mids and highs which make for a very clear and accurate sound.
Durability | Game Zero
The Sennheiser Game Zero can be stowed away with a foldable design, an impressive feat for a headset with cans as large as they are. The lightweight metal that makes up the band feels tough without being inflexible.
The mic is affixed to the headset and can’t be removed, but can be ‘flipped’ up to engage the mute function. A volume control wheel is attached to the right earcup, with the 3.5mm cable being the only removable and replaceable part of the unit.
Whilst somewhat limited in terms of modularity, buyers will appreciate the included 2-year warranty.
- Incredibly clear audio
- Foldable design
- Limited to gaming
- Expensive
PERFECT FOR: Audiophile gamers who play games where hearing every last footstep matters, like Rainbow 6: Siege and Call of Duty: Warzone.
- CLOSED BACK - Closed back design featuring tailored leatherette double layered memory-foam ear pads...
- XXL EARCUPS - Modern, lightweight yet robust design featuring XXL ear cups incorporating...
- NOISE-CANCELING MIC - Crystal clear conversations ensured with the professional quality...
- FOLDABLE - Foldable design featuring a volume control located on the right ear cup with two cables...
- VOLUME-CONTROL - A built-in volume control on the right ear cup of the Game Zero headset allows for...
Last update on 2022-03-30 at 21:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. Bose QC20 – Best noise cancellation
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz | Wireless: No | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC): Yes | Ambient Noise Attenuation: on average -25db | Cable Length: 4.2ft (1.3m)
Overall usage by Pro players:
You may not have expected to see an earbud-style headset on the list, given the majority of gamers prefer over-ear-style phones for their sound isolation and comfort. But it all starts to make sense when you understand the noise-canceling capabilities of the Bose Quiet Comfort 20s.
Bose have been masters of noise cancellation technology for decades, and the QC20 is no exception. Active noise cancellation listens for background noise and produces soundwaves to counter it, leaving you with a surprisingly focused soundscape for such a small device footprint.
The audio quality is exactly what you’d expect from Bose – balanced to perfection with no discernable emphasis on certain frequencies.
Durability | QC20
As they are earbud headphones, the construction is overall less solid than you would expect from over-ear sets. This is not ideal for longevity, but great for portability.
They come with three variable sizes of ear tips for perfect comfort and also to maximize the effectiveness of the noise cancellation.
The cancellation effect itself is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery attached to the cord, with impressive 16-hour runtime. When zapped, you can still plug in and listen to music and play games, but without the noise cancellation effect.
The 2-year warranty may ease your concerns about the lithium-ion battery life, which tends to last for around 3 years before losing its hold.
- Great audio with impressive noise cancellation
- Extremely portable
- Very expensive for their limited gaming features
- Not durability-centric
PERFECT FOR: Single-player gamers who value noise cancellation above all.
- Compatible Devices: iPhone, iPad and iPod models
- Included Components: QuietComfort 20 headphones, Apple devices, 3 pairs StayHear+ tips (S, M, L),...
Last update on 2021-05-26 at 14:11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. HyperX Cloud Alpha – A great Cloud II alternative
Frequency Response: 13 Hz – 27 kHz | Wireless: No | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC): No | Ambient Noise Attenuation: on average -11db | Cable Length: Detachable 4.2ft (1.3m) + Extension cable 6.6ft (2m)
Overall usage by Pro players:
You have to give it to HyperX for offering gamers premium-quality audio technology at reasonable price points. And that’s exactly what this HyperX headset represents – an audio solution that is entirely gaming-focused for under $100.
How does the Cloud Alpha differ from the more popular Cloud II? It’s mostly in the chambers. They boast dual chambers, one for bass and a separate one for mids and highs, to offer great sound quality with less distortion. On top of that, the leatherette earcups have got an upgrade, with a softer and more pliable material for greater comfort. Finally, the headband is larger, able to accommodate bigger heads compared to the Cloud IIs.
Durability | Cloud Alpha
Aside from those upgrades, you can expect the same great all-around consumer friendliness and longevity-focused offering – A modular design where each component can be replaced or upgraded, braided cords for added durability, and of course cross-platform compatibility.
- Modular design
- Multiple colorways
- Generous warranty
- Bulky design that limits their portability
PERFECT FOR: Those who are looking for a solid gaming-audio-only solution at a reasonable price.
- HyperX Dual Chamber Drivers for more distinction and less distortion
- Signature award winning HyperX comfort
- Durable aluminum frame with expanded headband
- Detachable braided cable with convenient in line audio control
- Detachable noise cancellation microphone
Last update on 2021-08-16 at 01:32 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
6. Astro A40 – Best for streamers
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz | Wireless: No | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC): No | Ambient Noise Attenuation: on average -5.7db | Cable Length: Detachable 3.3ft (1m)
Overall usage by Pro players:
If you’ve been on the scene for a while, you probably already know the Astro A40s. A mainstay of gaming tech, this headset is as recognizable as it is consistent, not having changed a whole lot over the past 10 or so years.
This recent edition though makes some effort to fix that, with a reasonable upgrade to the audio quality and its companion mixer. New 40mm drivers power the specially balanced audio soundscape for gaming to offer a detailed, smooth array of sounds.
You can edit the audio output down to the last detail thanks to the MixAmp Pro TR, a compact mixer that allows you to quickly fine-tune your audio, switch to EQ presets, and adjust the volume balance quickly, even mid-game. This is incredible for streamers who want to balance multiple audio inputs and outputs without disrupting their play. However, this is sold separately at the handsome price of around $130.
Durability | A40
The frame and overall build of this bit of kit is intense-looking and widely customizable. The microphone, magnetic speaker tags, and headband padding are all swappable, and they offer a range of different ‘mod-kits’ for these in different colorways, again at an additional cost.
It’s a hefty unit at 363g, the weightiest on the list.
The large ear cups with synthetic leather make for pretty comfortable marathon gaming sessions despite its weight, however.
The boom mic can be switched to the other ear cup based on your personal preference, and the package comes with a 2m in-line mute cable and 1.5m PC splitter. With the MixAmp, that’s a lot of cabling and not entirely friendly to the more minimalist setups.
Disappointingly, Astro offers a pretty limited 1-year warranty for the A40s for North America, and customized products are non-refundable and non-cancellable.
- MixAmp Pro TR offers precise and convenient audio control
- Modular design
- Good customization options
- MixAmp and all mod-kit options are sold separately (extra cost)
- Small warranty
PERFECT FOR: Streamers with big budgets who want a convenient, on-the-fly EQ and volume control solution.
- Tuned with ASTRO Audio V2 - Tuned for Gaming, ASTRO Audio V2 delivers pro quality audio for gamers...
- Superior fit and finish - The A40 TR features lightweight yet rugged construction with premium...
- Swappable boom microphone - Highly sensitive uni-directional mic that focuses on your voice and...
- Customizable Speaker Tags - Our patented magnetic Speaker Tag system lets you personalize your...
- Mod Kit Ready - Features synthetic leather noise-cancelling ear cushions, voice-isolating mic,...
Last update on 2021-05-26 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Comparison Table
| Product | Features | RUGGED RATINGS | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best overall |
| 9.3 | Check Latest Price |
Best for online multiplayer |
| 8.8 | Check Latest Price |
Best Value |
| 8.6 | Check Latest Price |
 |
| 7.1 | Check Latest Price |
 |
| 6.4 | Check Latest Price |
 |
| 6 | 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 HyperX Cloud II has all the reasons to take the top spot as the best gaming headset. With a tough frame and very welcome modular design, you may be able to get years and years of solid use out of them, if you’re willing to replace a broken mic or threaded cable here and there.
As for its overall quality on the battleground? It was the most used headset by professional esports players in eight of the biggest competitive games in the world. That speaks for itself. The cup design acts as an adequate external noise eliminator, and PC gamers can enjoy incredible 7.1 surround sound thanks to the included sound card. For its price point, it’s probably one of the best value deals in all of gaming tech right now.
But if your budget is a little roomier, we’d have to recommend the Logitech G Pro X. The build quality and design on this thing is top-notch, bleeding elegance, and professionalism. The combination of the amazingly well-balanced audio with Blue’s next-level microphone technology makes the G Pro X by far one of the best choices for online multiplayer gamers.
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.
What to check next: Is the Razer Blade 15 worth it? While the Pro and Stealth exist on opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of intended use, the Razer Blade 15 Base Edition stole our attention for its balance of internal specs and external build quality, making it perfect for both gaming, productivity, and general use.
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