Headsets have become a crucial piece of gear when gaming online. For PC gamers, this means another peripheral and even more choice. Sure, choice is one of the greatest strengths of the PC as a platform, but it can be seriously overwhelming when you need to choose the optimal equipment that you’ll be using for years.
When audio enters the equation, things get even messier. Fear not, though. We’re here to help you sort everything out with these 5 top headsets of 2018.
1. SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wired/Wireless
The SteelSeries Arctis Pro comes in two varieties, a wired version with an accompanying gaming DAC, and a wireless model. Both are exceptional headsets that push gaming audio to audiophile grade levels, and that’s really saying something. For a long time, true audiophiles laughed at the notion of headsets, opting instead for headphones (i.e. the ones without a microphone). The Arctic Pro thoroughly blurs that line.
This one isn’t for casual gamers, though, with a price tag starting at $240. That said, the bulk of its strength comes from the fact that it does so much more than games well. This is an excellent option for music lovers, with an external DAC to boost sound quality and cut down on interference and noise. Its simulated surround sound capabilities are great for games, but they’re also awesome for movies as well. If you’re looking to invest in the complete package, the SteelSeres Arctis Pro is definitely worth considering.
2. HyperX Cloud Alpha
Are you sick of multimedia pro wireless headsets that claim to be the best at everything? Would you rather a no-nonsense gaming headset that’s legitimately great for gaming without a ton of extra baggage? The HyperX Cloud Alpha is exactly what you’re looking for. It’s a gaming headset in the ultra popular Cloud line that’s designed for do gaming right.
The HyperX Cloud Alpha is a 2.1 channel headset without the simulated surround sound features of some higher end headsets, but it still sounds excellent. With the Cloud Alpha Kingston pioneered a new dual chamber driver design to smooth out and clean up the sound quality that these deliver. The HyperX Cloud Alpha utilizes an aluminum frame with memory foam padding to keep you comfortable, even during marathon gaming sessions.
3. Corsair Void Pro RGB
Corsair is an undeniable presence in just about ever facet of PC gaming, and rightly so. Nearly everything they do, they do well. That’s not to say that they’re the best, though, and that’s the case here with the Corsair Void Pro RGB. It’s a great headset, especially at just $80 for the wireless version, but not the absolute best.
The Void Pro RGB is a simulated 7.1 headset. It offers high quality sound for games and video. For top quality music, though, it falls slightly short. Like nearly everything that Corsair puts out, the controls for the Void Pro come in the form of Corsair’s proprietary software. That includes both audio adjustments and RBG. Some people will love that, for others, it’s a major annoyance or even a prohibiting factor in the case of people who want to make the most of their headset on platforms othere than Windows.
Corsair’s gamer-centric styling definitely gives the Void Pro RGB a distinct look. The headset is well built and comfortable, but you might not like the amount of plastic around it. That’s more of a stylistic choice though. Altogether, the Corsair Void Pro RGB is a solid choice if you want the 7.1 functionality at a reasonable price.
4. HyperX Cloud Revolver S
Yes, it’s another HyperX Cloud headset on this list, but the whole line is so well done, it’s hardly surprising. HyperX Cloud products are built well, without needless frills and gimmicks, and the Revolver S is definitely no exception. It features an aluminum construction, intelligently placed padding, and ergonomic design dimensions.
The HyperX Cloud Revolver S is similar to Alpha, but packed with even more. The Revolver S offers 7.1 surround sound that you can toggle at any time via the on-cable controls, which are simple and convenient. The quality of both the stereo and surround modes is wonderful, and you’ll easily be able to get the most out of your gaming, video, and music.
The one feature that the Cloud Revolver S is lacking is wireless, but it doesn’t really matter, unless you absolutely need wireless capabilities. For a more in-depth look, check out your complete review of the HyperX Cloud Revolver S.
5. SteelSeries Arctis 7
And, yet another series pops up on the list twice. The SteelSeries Arctis line of headsets is the most direct competition to the Cloud sets, and they really are on the same level of quality. The Arctis 7 is a wireless 7.1 surround sound headset that promises a lag-free experience in gaming. As a primarily wireless headset, it offers on-ear controls to adjust settings, like the balance between your game audio and chat.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 offers top-notch sound quality across gaming and every type of media you can throw at it. While it’s not quite up to the level of the Arctis pro with a dedicated DAC, you still won’t be disappointed with the rich audio this headset delivers.
Speaking of quality, the Arctis doesn’t skimp anywhere. Its solid steel and aluminum frame is ergonomically designed to be insanely comfortable, and the headband is inspired by ski goggles to deliver a more tailored fit. This one will stay comfortable, even during extended gaming sessions.
Conclusion
You absolutely can’t go wrong with any of these headsets. Aside from the Arctis Pro, which is a fairly clear overall winner at a much higher price point, they all meet slightly different needs and priorities. When choosing a gaming headset, you need to ask yourself how else you plan on using it and which features matter most to you.
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Published: Nov 9, 2018 12:24 am