Although most wired headphones with microphones can function as headsets for the PS4Having special gaming headsets ensures that you get an optimized experience while allowing others to hear you clearly while playing multiplayer video games online.
With the PlayStation 4, many users opt for wired headphones since you only have to connect them to the control, which is wireless. It’s worth noting that many, if not most, of the hard-wired headsets for the PS4 also work with the Xbox One, with Windows PCs, Macs, and the Nintendo Switch.
However, if you want to say goodbye to the cable from the control to the headphones, there are many wireless options. Just be aware that they all include and require a low-latency wireless dongle that plugs into your PS4’s USB port (there should be no audio delay). Also note that almost no wireless PS4 headset works with the Xbox One as well. The Switch, on the other hand, requires a USB-C wireless dongle for connectivity to the wireless headset (although some USB dongles do work via the dock the Switch).
Some mid-range and high-end models, whether wired or wireless, have virtual surround sound. But, this is not real surround sound, but it can help to create richer and more immersive audio experience and also provide better space awareness in some games.
With these key facts in place, then let’s move on to our favorite headphone options for the PS4. This selection is the result of our tests and some options suggested by our sister site GameSpot.
–
HyperX
The HyperX Cloud Alpha have a solid build, good sound and strong microphone performance. And, most importantly, they are comfortable to wear during long gaming sessions.
For about $ 30 more you can get the HyperX Cloud Alpha 7.1, which have an almost identical design but are compatible with virtual surround sound, but only for PC; for the PS4 it is only stereo.
–
–
Josh Miller/CNET
Sony’s PlayStation Gold Wireless Headset has been around for a while and was updated in 2018. They are still the best budget wireless earphones for PS4 gamers, especially those looking for a wireless model for virtual reality gaming. You have to use the included USB dongle to connect wirelessly.
It has virtual 7.1 surround sound for games that support this feature.
–
–
Sennheiser
The Sennheiser GSP 370 not only have excellent construction but also good sound, comfort, microphone performance and a beast of a battery (up to 100 hours). An included USB dongle helps you connect wirelessly to your PS4, and the microphone can be muted. The GSP 370 is also PC compatible.
–
–
SteelSeries
The Arctis Pro Wireless ($ 330) is designed for both PCs and PS4s and provides world-class audio, convenience, and many features, including an interchangeable battery. Two batteries are included and each provides enough power to last 10 hours, according to SteelCase.
With an Apple TV-sized wireless transmitter that plugs into your PS4 (or PC), it’s a bit cumbersome to set up and operate. But they are one of the few non-Sony wireless headphones that offer virtual surround sound. They also have Bluetooth connectivity.
–
–
JBL
The Quantum 800 are wireless and include a wireless dongle that works with the PS4 and a Windows computer. It has noise cancellation and excellent sound not only for video games but also for music and movies. They are a little heavy but they are comfortable to wear.
Its microphone performance is fair and not as good as it should be at this price. The microphone cannot be disconnected, but you can mute it. Its battery promises 14 hours of life.
–
–
SteelSeries
As we mentioned above, the Arctis Pro Wireless are a beast, but they cost more than $ 300. If you want a more affordable alternative that costs about $ 100, consider the Arctis 1. They are compatible with the PS4 and PC, as well as the Nintendo Switch, thanks to an included USB-C dongle. The microphone can be disconnected and the battery life is 20 hours.
–
–
David Carnoy/CNET
The Quantum 100 is the entry model of JBL’s new line of gaming headsets. There’s nothing fancy about this model, but it’s quite light and comfortable, with a microphone that can be disconnected. On the left ear cup is the volume control as well as the mute button. These headphones also work with other video game consoles and are decent for listening to music.
–
–
