What features make the best headsets for streaming? It starts with excellent sound quality for precise in-game audio and detailed playback of streaming sessions. Excellent microphone quality is also a must-have so that your voice comes across clearly and without too much interference from keyboard sounds or other external noises.
Choosing the best gaming headset you can afford is important for the streaming experience since it helps with gameplay and communication during gaming sessions. It also makes it easier to create content with decent audio quality. Noise cancelation helps filter out background noise and produce a more immersive gaming experience that, in turn, benefits your live streaming. And don’t forget to look for a comfortable headset that you can wear for long periods.
Keep reading to learn more about choosing the best headsets for your gaming and live streaming needs.
Top Headsets for Streaming
#1 Jabra Talk 35 Gaming Headset
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: This wireless headset has a compact mono design that allows making calls without completely blocking out outside sounds. It has twin sound-isolating microphones that will suit call center operators and streamers.
- Compact mono design
- Bluetooth tech connects to computers, smartphones and consoles
- Voice control
- Poorly placed control buttons
The Jabra Talk 35 is an in-ear headset with a stylish appearance. This headset has a mono design to help users make calls without losing spatial awareness. It has dual mics equipped with noise cancellation tech to reduce background noise. This headset is especially suited for use in call centers and other communal offices. With voice prompts and feedback, this device notifies users about firmware updates, battery status, and connection status. However, the controls are poorly positioned, so they can be engaged accidentally.
It comes with a number of EarGels of varying sizes to fit a wide variety of people. This headset is wireless, featuring Bluetooth tech to facilitate moving freely around the office. It has a range of up to 33 feet, so it’s ideal for large communal offices. A built-in rechargeable battery provides up to 6 hours of runtime, while voice recognition tech allows users to operate this headset through Google Assistant or Siri.
#2 Razer Tetra Gaming Headset
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This headset has a low-weight mono design that keeps one of the ears free to facilitate multitasking. It has a flexible noise-canceling mic that picks up detailed sounds.
- Incredible audio quality
- Bendable noise-canceling design
- Reversible build is suitable for left and right placement
- Relatively short power cord
Featuring a custom-tuned 32mm driver, the Razer Tetra gaming headset produces crystal-clear sound that will appeal to gaming enthusiasts, streamers, and podcast makers. This gaming headset has a very lightweight mono design that facilitates communication while helping the user to maintain spatial awareness. It has a lightweight adjustable headband that provides an ergonomic fit. However, the cord on this unit is a bit too short, so it requires the user to stay close to the device.
A noise-canceling microphone with a cardioid pickup pattern captures the user’s voice while suppressing undesirable background sounds. The microphone has a flexible arm that enables precisely adjusting its position. This boom microphone has in-line controls for adjusting the volume and muting the microphone. Featuring a reversible design, this headset suits both left-handed and right-handed users. It has a 3.5mm connector to plug into devices ranging from PCs to mobile phones, PS4, and Nintendo Switch.
#3 Plantronics Voyager 4210-UC Gaming Headset
Award: BEST MONO HEADSET
WHY WE LIKE IT: This mono headset connects via two different wireless technologies, offering compatibility with a wide variety of devices. With a range of up to 98 feet, this device is a good choice for streamers, call center operators, and gamers.
- Portable mono design
- Bluetooth 5.0 tech and USB dongle
- Comes with a car charger
- Mic is not detachable
Featuring a mono, one-sided design, the Plantronics Voyager 4210-UC gaming headset enables users to listen to gaming audio or podcasts without completely blocking out the surroundings. This gaming headset uses Bluetooth 5.0 tech to connect wirelessly to various devices without the need for installing an adapter. It also comes with a USB dongle for connecting via RF and has a runtime of up to 12 hours. The mic on this device boasts active noise-canceling tech. However, the mic is not detachable
This headset comes with a two-port USB charger that can be used on a wall outlet or in a car. The headset has a high-quality driver that delivers refined audio. It has an astounding wireless range of up to 98, making it a good choice for users at call centers and large communal offices. This model is compatible with the Plantronics Hub app and Plantronics Hub software for adjusting settings easily.
#4 Logitech G Pro X Gaming Headset
Award: BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This headset has a well-cushioned build that offers comfort. It has controls for noise cancellation, mic gain, and mic pickup pattern, allowing advanced eSports gamers to customize their game experience.
- Impressive zero-latency monitoring tech
- Detachable noise-canceling mic
- Comes with a Yeti USB mic
- Complicated customization
The Logitech G Pro X gaming headset has remarkable cushioning that will favor people who stream for long hours. This gaming headset has a flexible boom mic that supports cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pick-up patterns. The mic is detachable and has a noise reducer, compressor, and limiter. It has Blue Broadcast audio precisely tuned for professional gamers and streamers. However, this model can prove complicated to customize and operate especially for novice users.
Onboard audio controls allow adjusting an impressive selection of parameters that will appeal to advanced users. The headset has controls for adjusting volume, muting, changing the microphone gain, and adjusting the pickup pattern. This gaming headset comes with a Yeti USB mic precisely engineered for broadcasting and streaming. Featuring a zero-latency monitoring system, this headset allows users to listen to their voice in real-time. It works with Logitech G Hub software to provide access to high-quality EQ profiles.
#5 Bengoo G9000 Gaming Headset
We’re sorry, this product is temporarily out of stock
Award: BEST WITH RGB LIGHTING
WHY WE LIKE IT: The headset is available in a wide variety of brightly colored options that will appeal to a wide variety of people. It has powerful subwoofer 40mm drivers and a gold-plated 3.5mm plug that offers near-universal compatibility.
- Aggressive, colorful design
- Heavily cushioned construction
- LED lighting
- LED lights need a USB port
With stunning ambiance LED lighting, the Bengoo G9000 gaming headset will illuminate any gaming room. This headset is compatible with PC and a wide variety of consoles, including Xbox One, PS4, and Nintendo 3DS. The headset features premium 40mm neodymium drivers to deliver in-game sounds with refinement and precision. A noise-canceling omnidirectional microphone enhances in-game communication. However, the lights on this model require a USB port, so they may not function on consoles.
Generously cushioned protein earpads on this device provide an immersive listening experience while facilitating smooth airflow. The headset also features a cushioned head beam that provides comfort. This gaming headset is available in a huge variety of stunning colors, including blue, green, and pink. Equipped with a high-strength 4-foot anti-winding braised USB cable, this headset taps power from computers and other USB charging systems. It boasts volume controls and a mute function and has a 3.5mm plug for near-universal compatibility.
#6 EKDJKK Gaming Headset
Award: BEST APPEARANCE
WHY WE LIKE IT: This game headset has features contrasting red and black portions that provide a stunning appearance. With ambiance lighting on the ear cups and microphone, this headset will impress.
- Exquisite black and red appearance
- RGB lights
- Long 7.2 power/audio cords
- Needs a separate USB connection for RGB lights
Made with high-quality materials, the EKDJKK gaming headset provides durability. This device has a lightweight design with a padded headband and cushioned earcups for comfort. The headband is adjustable to help users get the right fit. A USB cable powers the RGB lights, while a 3.5 mm plug connects to computers and mobile devices. However, the USB plug on this device doesn’t transmit audio and it’s only used to power the RGB lights.
The headset has high-quality custom-tuned drivers to help users differentiate in-game sounds easily. It has in-line controls for volume adjustment and muting and features large ear cups to provide a hypnotic, engaging listening experience. With a high-quality mic, the headset facilitates flawless communication in eSports. This gaming headset features a stunning red and black color scheme that offers near-universal appeal. It has ear cup RGB lighting to transform the ambiance in the gaming room.
Beginner’s Guide to Headsets for Streaming
What Are Headsets for Streaming
In a basic sense, streaming headsets are any gaming headsets with a certain set of features that work well for Twitch streamers and content creators on various streaming platforms. This means they typically come with a pair of over-the-ear headphones or earbuds, a built-in microphone, and connectivity that works with PCs, popular game consoles, and mobile devices.
Headsets for Streaming vs Gaming Headsets in General
Like other gaming headsets, premium headset options for streamers use headphones and headset microphones to generate sound and record audio. Streaming headsets can use wireless technology or a wired connection to interface with your gaming and streaming platform.
Compared to wired and wireless headphones for gaming, the best streaming headsets offer improved sound quality and more aesthetic design elements. In terms of sound quality, this includes directional audio for excellent game immersion for multiplayer and competitive games. Many gaming headsets will also have RGB lighting, come in a wide variety of colors and styles, and have other “gamer aesthetic” options.
The best models are more likely to have detachable or retractable microphones since many content creators use both a gaming headset and a separate microphone. High-quality audio is more crucial for streaming than casual gaming, so streamers’ headset choices have more detailed audio controls and sophisticated headphone speakers than a standard headset.
How Headsets for Streaming Work
Headsets for streaming connect with your device via wired or wireless technology, and they transmit the audio from games and other media to their headphone speakers. They also typically come with a fixed or detachable microphone. A streaming headset will often use a noise-canceling microphone so that it won’t pick up the sound of mechanical keyboards and other ambient noise.
A modern wireless headset will use an up-to-date protocol such as Bluetooth 5.2 or WiFi 5. These wireless standards enable the secure and reliable connection you’d need for uninterrupted streaming. Wireless models also use small lithium-ion batteries and micro-USB charging cables to maintain a lightweight design.
In contrast, wired streaming headsets use a 3.5mm audio cable and headphone jack or USB cable, and some newer models use a USB-C connection.
Many of the top-ranked wireless and wired headset models for streaming use noise-canceling features for both the headphones and headset mic in the interest of better sound quality. As with other types of headphones, the ones on a streaming headset can use an open-back or closed-back design.
Why You Should Buy a New Headset for Streaming
If you’re just getting into streaming, you might want to consider upgrading to a headset that offers better audio quality than your current model. Even if you already use a headset for online gaming, it may be worthwhile to look into a new one if you want better noise cancelation or a higher-definition audio experience for live streaming your favorite games.
The same is true if you’ve recently upgraded to a new gaming console, added a streaming box or webcam. If you’re in the market for a headset for Nintendo Switch, for example, you might want to choose a new model with updated wireless connection options. You might also consider a new headset that works well with a capture card or your camera setup of choice. You’ll want minimal lag and a stable, reliable connection to your device.
Compared to older models, newer headsets produce more accurate sound and offer more sophisticated virtual surround sound and background noise cancellation. These features help maintain focus and stay ahead of the action in multiplayer games. Better directional audio rendering provides an edge in various games that offer positional sound cues.
A newer headset for streamers may also offer a more ergonomic design that looks better and is easier to wear for extended periods.
Is a Headset for Streaming Worth Buying?
- New Game Platform: You might want to invest in an improved headset with a high-quality microphone to match your new gaming platform. If you’ve recently upgraded to a current-generation console, for example, you may be able to take advantage of updated Bluetooth for a faster wireless connection.
- Noisy Environment: The right microphone and headphones can make a huge difference for the sound quality of your gaming or Twitch streaming experience, especially if your environment has lots of ambient noise. Newer headset models use both active and passive noise isolation to filter out unwanted background noise.
- Starting to Stream Multiplayer Online Gaming Content: If you’re getting into streaming platforms and playing more cooperative online multiplayer games, you may want to upgrade your headset for more responsive audio and better microphone quality. A new streaming setup with a high-quality mic can enable better communication in multiplayer gaming environments and deliver better audio quality for your content.
- New Capture Card or Monitor: New hardware such as a capture card or gaming monitor might also make it a good time to get a new headset. If you’re starting to produce HD streaming content, you might also want a headset whose earphones and microphone have matching quality.
Why a Headset for Streaming May Not Be for You
- Using External Mic: If your setup already includes a desktop microphone, you might want to focus on a quality set of headphones rather than a gaming headset. You still might want to look for the features that make a pair of headphones suitable for streaming, however. Even if you use a standalone mic, you’ll need headphones with balanced sound and at least some audio tuning capabilities.
- Wanting Portable Headphones: Many streamers and online PC gamers choose a sturdy wired headset with a braided cable and ergonomic design for maximum comfort. However, if you also do a lot of mobile gaming or travel frequently, you might prefer a portable headset. That said, some great wireless options hold up reasonably well to the rigors of streaming use.
How Long Will a Headset for Streaming Last?
Like other audio products and gaming peripherals, headsets for streamers can last anywhere from one to five years under normal use. The longevity of a particular headset depends on how you use it, where you store it, and the quality of the device.
Wired headsets generally tend to last longer than wireless models. Not only are wired headsets usually more robust, but they also aren’t limited to the lifespan of built-in rechargeable batteries.
Wireless headsets for gaming and streaming tend to be lighter and more portable, but they can still last a reasonably long time if well-cared for. The battery life of a wireless gaming headset can vary significantly depending on the quality of battery cells used. In general, the small batteries that a budget headset uses last around 500 charge cycles, while some higher-end models have a 1500 charge cycle rating.
To get the most life out of your gaming and streaming headset, store it someplace dry and out of the way of pets and beverages. When traveling with it, keep the headset in a case or on a high-quality headset stand, if possible.
How to Choose the Best Headset for Streaming
Various factors help determine the best headset for your streaming goals. You’ll want to consider how noisy your gaming and work environment is, what games you enjoy, what gaming platform you use most, and the audio requirements for your favorite streaming platform. You’ll also likely want to consider what other devices you use, such as capture cards, webcams, and RGB lighting.
Headset for Streaming Key Factors
1. What Platforms Do You Use?
The choice of gaming platform and the types of recording devices you use can help determine which streaming headset works best. If you use a PC, for example, you can use a USB audio connection, and you’ll be able to access the audio tuning capabilities of a pro headset. Mobile devices and some consoles, on the other hand, may pair more conveniently with Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz wireless headsets.
2. What Types of Games Do You Play?
Different types of games make different demands on a headset. For action games that use directional sounds to provide positional audio cues, it’s important to have headphones that offer directional surround sound to maximize positional awareness.
3. How Long Are Your Gaming and Streaming Sessions?
A budget headset with earbuds may work fine for short sessions, but if you keep your headset on for hours of gaming at a time, you may want to look for one with more comfort features like memory foam padded earphones.
4. Do You Need HD Audio Quality?
If you’re looking for the most immersive experience with HD-quality audio and minimal ambient noise, you might want to consider a streaming headset with studio-quality headphones. On the other hand, casual streamers may benefit from a lightweight headset with simple controls and wireless capability.
5. How Much Background Noise Do You Have?
If you make content in a very quiet place, you might not need features like active noise isolation. You might also want a headset with an open-back design that delivers more natural mid-range sounds and stronger bass. However, if your setup has unwanted background noise, you might prefer closed-back headsets that offer active and passive noise isolation. Closed-back headphones make a slight compromise in sound but can filter out background noise better.
