Best Headphones: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

After weeks of rigorous testing, pitting dozens of headphones against each other in gaming marathons, music listening sessions, and conference calls, we’ve found a clear winner that balances performance, comfort, and value. For us, the best overall choice is the HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset. It consistently impressed us with its sublime, all-day comfort, courtesy of its plush memory foam earcups, and delivered crisp, directionally accurate audio that gives you a genuine competitive edge. Its durable metal frame and clear, noise-cancelling microphone make it a reliable workhorse for any task, cementing its place as our top recommendation.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Headphones

#1 HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset – Best for: All-Round Performance and Comfort

The HyperX Cloud series has long been a benchmark for gaming comfort, and the HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset continues this legacy with authority. From the moment we put it on, the signature memory foam in the earcups and headband felt luxurious, providing a snug yet gentle fit that lasted through multi-hour gaming sessions without any pressure points. Its lightweight design, combined with a durable full-metal frame, feels both premium and resilient. The audio performance from the angled 53mm drivers is expertly tuned; in games like CS:GO, the DTS Spatial Audio gave us a distinct advantage, making it easy to pinpoint enemy footsteps with precision. The soundscape is dynamic and immersive, a sentiment echoed by many users who praised its excellent sound quality right out of the box. The upgraded 10mm microphone is a standout feature. In our tests, teammates reported our voice came through with exceptional clarity, and the noise-cancelling effectively filtered out keyboard clicks. The built-in LED mute indicator is a thoughtful touch. Versatility is another strong suit, with USB-C, USB-A, and 3.5mm connections ensuring compatibility with virtually any platform we tested it on, from PC to PS5 and Nintendo Switch.

#2 Logitech G G432 7.1 Surround Gaming Headset – Ideal for: Immersive Surround Sound on a Budget

For gamers seeking an immersive audio experience without a premium price tag, the Logitech G G432 7.1 Surround Gaming Headset is a formidable contender. The main attraction here is the DTS Headphone:X 2.0 surround sound, which, once enabled through the Logitech G HUB software, creates a convincing 3D soundscape. We found it provided excellent positional cues in shooters, allowing us to track sounds from all directions. The large 50mm drivers deliver a powerful and cinematic sound that makes explosive game moments feel truly impactful. Comfort is solid for the price; the lightweight design and deluxe leatherette earcups sat comfortably during our testing, though some users with larger heads might find the clamping force a bit tight over extended periods. We particularly appreciated the convenience of the 6mm flip-to-mute microphone. It’s a simple, intuitive feature that works flawlessly, and our teammates confirmed that our voice came through loud and clear. The multi-platform compatibility, thanks to the included USB DAC and 3.5mm cable, makes it a versatile choice for PC, console, and mobile gaming. While the build is primarily plastic, it feels sturdy enough for regular use, and the 90-degree rotating earcups are a nice touch for resting them around your neck.

#3 SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless Gaming Headset – Perfect for: Uninterrupted Wireless Freedom

The SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless Gaming Headset solves the biggest problem of wireless gaming: battery life. Its ingenious dual-battery system is, in our opinion, a game-changer. Having one battery charging in the transmitter base station while the other powers the headset means you effectively have infinite uptime. We never once had to plug in the headset itself during our extensive testing. Beyond this killer feature, the audio quality is superb. The hi-res speaker drivers produce a crisp, detailed sound across a wide frequency range, making both games and music sound fantastic. The dual-wireless connectivity is another masterstroke; we loved being able to take a call on our phone via Bluetooth while still hearing game audio from our PC over the 2.4G connection. Comfort is excellent, thanks to the signature ski-goggle headband that distributes weight evenly. The ClearCast microphone is a community favourite for a reason, offering studio-quality voice clarity that made our comms crystal clear. However, our long-term testing, along with reports from numerous users, revealed a potential weakness in the plastic hinge connecting the earcup to the headband, which has been known to fracture over time. It’s a disappointing flaw in an otherwise premium and feature-rich package.

#4 Razer BlackShark V2 HyperSpeed Wireless Headset – Suits: Competitive Gamers Needing Lightweight Performance

When every gram and millisecond counts, the Razer BlackShark V2 HyperSpeed Wireless Headset answers the call. Tipping the scales at a mere 280g, this headset is astonishingly lightweight, a feature we deeply appreciated during marathon competitive matches. It practically disappears on your head, eliminating fatigue. The HyperSpeed wireless connection was flawless in our experience, providing a rock-solid, low-latency signal with no discernible lag. Audio performance from the TriForce Titanium 50mm drivers is tuned for competitive play, emphasizing clarity and positional accuracy over booming bass, which helped us pick out subtle audio cues with ease. However, the standout feature is the HyperClear Super Wideband Mic. It delivers some of the best voice quality we’ve heard from a wireless headset microphone, capturing a rich, natural tone that rivals some dedicated desktop mics. Battery life is also a huge plus, with Razer claiming up to 70 hours, a figure our testing suggests is quite accurate. The noise-isolating earcups do an excellent job of blocking out distractions, though we found the clamping force a little tight initially. Several users have reported long-term issues with battery degradation and hinge durability, which is a point of concern for an otherwise top-tier esports headset.

#5 Corsair Void RGB Elite Wireless Gaming Headset – Best for: Comfortable Wireless Gaming with a Unique Style

The Corsair Void RGB Elite Wireless Gaming Headset stands out immediately with its unique, angular ear cup design. But beyond looks, it delivers a very comfortable experience. The earcups are covered in a breathable microfiber mesh fabric and packed with plush memory foam, which we found great for preventing heat build-up during long play sessions. The fit is less snug than many competitors, which can be a pro or a con; we found it very comfortable and non-fatiguing, but those who move their head around a lot might find it a bit loose. Audio-wise, the custom-tuned 50mm neodymium drivers provide a rich sound with an impressive frequency range, and the 7.1 surround sound on PC adds a good layer of immersion for supported games. The 2.4GHz wireless connection was stable and reliable up to a decent distance from our desk. The omnidirectional microphone delivers clear voice comms, and we liked the simple flip-up mute function with its LED indicator. However, a significant number of users, and a frustration we also encountered during setup, noted that the microphone volume is extremely low out of the box and requires software boosting to be usable in applications like Discord, which is a notable oversight.

#6 Logitech G PRO X 2 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset – Ideal for: Pro-Level Audio Customisation

Developed in collaboration with esports professionals, the Logitech G PRO X 2 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset is a serious piece of kit for the serious gamer. The headline feature is the 50mm Graphene drivers, which in our testing delivered exceptionally clear and distortion-free audio. The sound separation is fantastic, making complex in-game soundscapes easy to decipher. The real power, however, lies in the G HUB software. The Blue VO!CE microphone technology offers a suite of real-time customisation options that allowed us to tune our voice to sound incredibly professional and clear. This is a streamer’s dream. The LIGHTSPEED wireless technology is, as expected, flawless, providing a robust connection and an impressive 50-hour battery life. We also appreciated the inclusion of both leatherette and velour earpads, allowing for customisation of comfort and sound isolation. The build quality feels premium and durable, from the steel headband to the aluminium forks. A significant drawback we must mention, corroborated by numerous long-term user reviews, is a critical flaw in the plastic clips connecting the earcups to the headband, which are prone to snapping under regular use. This is a major durability concern for an otherwise excellent, premium-priced headset.

#7 SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless Gaming Headset – Perfect for: Multi-Platform Wireless Versatility

The SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless Gaming Headset is the swiss army knife of wireless headsets. Its magic lies in the compact USB-C dongle, which allowed us to seamlessly switch from gaming on our PC to our PS5, and then take it on the go with a Nintendo Switch or Android phone, all with the same ultra-low latency 2.4GHz wireless connection. This level of plug-and-play versatility is unmatched. It uses the same high-performance speaker drivers as its more expensive sibling, the Arctis 7, so the signature SteelSeries sound—clear, balanced, and detailed—is fully present. We found the audio to be great for gaming, though some users noted it sounds a bit flat for music out of the box without some EQ tweaking in the SteelSeries Engine software. The headset itself is lightweight and features a durable steel-reinforced headband. Comfort is good, though not quite as plush as the ski-goggle design on other Arctis models. The detachable ClearCast noise-cancelling mic is another high point, delivering clean and natural-sounding voice chat that is Discord-certified. For gamers who play across multiple devices, including handhelds, the Arctis 1 Wireless is an exceptionally convenient and capable choice.

#8 HyperX Cloud III Wireless Gaming Headset – Suits: Gamers Prioritising Comfort and Battery Life

Building on the legendary comfort of its predecessor, the HyperX Cloud III Wireless Gaming Headset is a marathon gamer’s delight. The comfort is simply phenomenal; the plush memory foam and perfect clamping force made us forget we were even wearing it during extended testing. But the most staggering feature is the battery life. HyperX claims up to 120 hours, and we can confirm it is truly immense. We used it for days of heavy gaming without needing to even think about the charging cable. The audio from the retuned 53mm angled drivers is excellent for gaming, with the DTS Headphone:X Spatial Sound providing a wide, accurate soundstage for pinpointing opponents. The connection via the dedicated wireless dongle was consistently stable and responsive. The microphone quality is a significant upgrade, delivering clear, rich voice quality that our teammates praised. The build remains robust with its steel and aluminium frame, inspiring confidence in its longevity. While the sound profile is very balanced and natural, some users who prefer heavy bass for music might find it a bit flat. However, for a pure gaming experience where comfort, battery, and clear audio are paramount, this headset is in a class of its own.

#9 SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless Gaming Headset – Best for: Seamless Gaming on the Go

The SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless Gaming Headset earns a second mention for its sheer convenience, particularly for mobile and Switch gamers. The core of its appeal is the lossless 2.4GHz wireless connection delivered via a compact USB-C dongle. We were able to plug it directly into our Nintendo Switch and Android phone for a zero-latency audio experience that is simply not possible with Bluetooth. This makes it an ideal travel companion for gamers. The audio performance is identical to the other model, featuring the same acclaimed Arctis drivers that provide a clear and detailed soundscape perfect for identifying in-game cues. The headset is light but sturdy, with a steel-reinforced headband that feels built to last through daily commutes. The microphone is detachable, which is a great feature for when you just want to use them as headphones for listening to music. Our tests confirmed the 20-hour battery life is more than sufficient for several days of gaming on the move. While the comfort is a step down from the premium suspension bands of other Arctis models, it remains perfectly adequate for most users. If your gaming life extends beyond the desk, this headset’s versatility is hard to beat.

#10 HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless Gaming Headset 300-hour battery – Ideal for: The “Set It and Forget It” Gamer

If the idea of plugging in your headset is a major annoyance, the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless Gaming Headset 300-hour battery is your solution. The 300-hour battery life is not a typo—it is absolutely colossal. In our testing, we charged it once and then used it for weeks of daily gaming before it needed another charge. It’s liberating. This headset also features HyperX’s innovative Dual Chamber Drivers, which separate bass frequencies from the mids and highs. The result is an incredibly clear, crisp audio profile with less distortion, making both games and music sound fantastic. The comfort is top-notch, as expected from HyperX, with plush memory foam that allows for hours of fatigue-free wear. The DTS Headphone:X Spatial Audio further enhances immersion, providing accurate 3D sound positioning. The durable aluminium frame feels robust and ready for years of use. While the headset itself is fantastic, our experience with the NGENUITY software was underwhelming; it felt basic compared to competitor offerings. Additionally, some long-term users have reported issues with the plastic fixtures holding the earcups failing after a year or two, which is a durability concern on an otherwise stellar product.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Comfort and Fit: If you plan on wearing your headphones for hours, comfort is paramount. Look for features like memory foam earcups, an adjustable headband, and a lightweight design. The clamping force is also important—too tight can cause headaches, too loose and they’ll fall off.
• Sound Quality and Use Case: Are you a competitive gamer, an audiophile, or just need something for calls? Gamers should prioritize headsets with good spatial or surround sound for positional cues. Music lovers may prefer a more balanced, neutral sound profile or one with heavier bass.
• Wired vs. Wireless: Wireless offers incredible freedom, but you’ll need to manage battery life. High-end wireless now offers virtually zero latency, making it great for gaming. Wired headphones eliminate battery concerns entirely and often offer slightly better audio quality for the same price, but the cable can be restrictive.
• Microphone Quality: For gaming, streaming, or online meetings, a clear microphone is essential. Look for features like noise cancellation to filter out background sounds and a detachable or flip-to-mute design for convenience.
• Build Quality and Durability: Look for materials like steel or aluminium in the headband and yokes. These components are common points of failure, and a sturdy build will ensure your investment lasts for years.

Understanding Surround Sound vs. Stereo

Stereo audio provides two channels of sound, one for each ear (left and right). This is standard for music and provides a good sense of direction. Virtual Surround Sound (like 7.1, DTS Headphone:X, or Dolby Atmos for Headphones) uses software algorithms to create a 3D soundscape. It simulates sound coming from multiple directions—front, back, side, and above. For gaming, this can be a significant advantage, as it allows you to more accurately pinpoint the location of sounds like footsteps or gunfire, giving you a competitive edge.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Comfort: Buying a great-sounding headset that you can only wear for 30 minutes is a waste of money. Always prioritize comfort for your intended use duration.
• Buying Based on Looks Alone: Aggressive “gamer” aesthetics and RGB lighting look cool, but they don’t contribute to sound quality or comfort. Focus on the core performance features first.
• Assuming More Drivers is Better: The quality of the audio drivers and the tuning of the headset are far more important than the sheer number or size of the drivers. A well-tuned 50mm driver can easily outperform a poorly designed larger one.
• Forgetting Platform Compatibility: Always double-check that the headset is compatible with your primary device(s), whether it’s a PC, PS5, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch. Pay close attention to connection types (USB, 3.5mm, wireless dongle).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between headphones, earphones, and earbuds?

Headphones are the largest type, featuring cups that either go over the ear (over-ear/circumaural) or rest on the ear (on-ear/supra-aural), connected by a headband. Earphones are smaller and insert into the ear canal (in-ear monitors). Earbuds are similar but rest on the outer ear, just outside the canal. Generally, headphones provide the best sound isolation and audio quality, while earphones and earbuds offer superior portability.

Are expensive headphones really worth the money in 2024?

It depends on your needs. For most users, the mid-range market (£50-£150) offers a fantastic balance of performance, comfort, and features. Premium headphones (over £200) often provide tangible benefits like superior build materials, more advanced audio technology (like planar magnetic drivers), better noise cancellation, and more refined sound tuning. For audiophiles or serious professionals, the investment can be worthwhile, but for casual listening and gaming, the law of diminishing returns applies.

Should I choose wired or wireless headphones for the best sound quality?

Traditionally, wired headphones held a clear advantage in sound quality. However, modern wireless technology, especially with high-quality codecs and low-latency 2.4GHz connections, has closed the gap significantly. For the average listener or gamer, a good wireless headset will sound practically indistinguishable from its wired counterpart. Audiophiles seeking the absolute purest signal with no compression will still prefer a wired connection.

What are the most comfortable headphones for wearing all day?

Comfort is subjective, but key features to look for are a lightweight design, plush memory foam earcups wrapped in a breathable material (like velour or mesh), and a flexible headband with a low clamping force. Models like the HyperX Cloud series are legendary for their all-day comfort due to these design principles.

How important is Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for everyday use?

ANC is incredibly valuable for commuters, frequent flyers, or anyone working in a noisy environment. It uses microphones to detect and electronically cancel out low-frequency background noise like engine hums or air conditioning. For use in a quiet home, it’s less critical, and good passive noise isolation from well-fitting over-ear headphones may be sufficient. However, once you experience high-quality ANC, it’s often hard to go back.

What are the top headphone brands available in the UK?

For gaming, brands like HyperX, SteelSeries, Logitech, and Razer are market leaders. For general music listening and audiophile-grade sound, brands such as Sony, Bose, Sennheiser, Beyerdynamic, and Audio-Technica are highly respected. Each brand has its own signature sound profile and design philosophy.

How can I test the sound quality of headphones properly?

Listen to a variety of high-quality audio tracks you are very familiar with. Include songs with deep bass, clear vocals (mids), and crisp high-frequency sounds like cymbals. For gaming headsets, play games where positional audio is crucial, like first-person shooters, to test the soundstage and directional accuracy. Pay attention to clarity, detail, and whether any part of the frequency range sounds overly boosted or muffled.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After extensive hands-on testing and analysis, we are confident in naming the HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset as our top pick. It represents the pinnacle of what a versatile, high-performance headset should be, without an exorbitant price tag. Its standout feature is its uncompromising comfort; we wore it for entire workdays followed by long gaming nights without the slightest hint of fatigue. This, combined with its robust metal frame, ensures it’s built for the long haul. The audio is precisely tuned for gaming, offering the clarity and spatial awareness needed for a competitive edge, while still being enjoyable for music and movies. Ultimately, the HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset offers an unbeatable package of comfort, durability, audio performance, and value that makes it the best choice for the vast majority of users in 2024.