The 9 Best Surround Sound Headphones of 2024 (with FAQs) (2024)

1. Kingston HyperX Cloud II – Gaming Headset

At the top of our list is the Kingston HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset! Selling for just under 100 bucks, the Cloud II is quite affordable considering what you get for your money. The build itself feels well thought through and even perhaps a bit over the top, with its extra padding on the inside and soft foam covers. But I say – the more the merrier!

A matching carry bag made of soft mesh fabric is included with the HyperX Cloud II. While the carry bag adds a bit of style, it also prevents your headset from being damaged inside your backpack while you’re traveling from the bedroom to wherever the next LAN is. In the package, there are two sets of ear cups (perfect for when your first pair starts feeling worn out). The first set is a velour, for when you want a more luxurious and comfortable feel. The second set is traditional leatherette.

Even though the style of these surround sound headphones is great – something even better about it is the soundcard that it comes with. The HyperX Cloud II plugs in via USB for PC and PS4 and has built-in DSP processing to amplify the audio as well as your voice. Something else that is worth mentioning is the detachable cardioid microphone and windscreen. The cardioid polar pattern of the microphone makes it good to use even in noisy environments since it cancels sound coming from the rear of the mic. This is very useful!

The HyperX Cloud II surround sound headphones has truly earned its place as the number 1 champion on our top ten list. It is a favorite among many, and with high quality 7.1 virtual surround sound, the HyperX Cloud II makes for the optimal headset when looking for something to suit all your needs. Whether it be design, audio quality, or comfort, the HyperX Cloud II ticks all of the boxes.

Design

As previously mentioned, the design of the HyperX Cloud II headset is stylish and modern, all while being user-friendly. The 100% memory foam ear cushions and padded leatherette headband keeps you comfy while the solid aluminum frame makes this a rugged and durable headphone for everyday use. The ear cup design is a closed one, and pro-gaming optimized, which is helpful in blocking out outside noise and distractions to keep you focused throughout the game.

Sound Quality

The audio quality of the HyperX Cloud II backs up why we chose this headset to be our top pick and can be compared to more expensive headsets out there. The bass sounds great and does not lack in the way you would expect from budget gaming headsets. The Cloud II can be used with either the USB or the 3.5mm output. However, if your intended use is PC, I strongly recommend using the USB DAC sound card.

The HyperX Cloud II handles all processing itself – and is virtual 7.1 surround sound capable. When used, the sound is bigger and very loud, with boosts in both the low end and in the highs to really put emphasis on game explosions and fight scene sounds. Without the sound card, it functions well as a standard stereo headset.

Compatibility

Optimized for pro gaming, the HyperX Cloud II is USB-powered for PC and Mac as well as 3.5mm stereo-compatible for PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox One S, mobile devices as well as VR systems.

What’s in the box?

2. SteelSeries Arctis 7 – Lossless Wireless Gaming Headset

Steelseries has done it again with another great quality gaming headset. Placing second on our list is the SteelSeries Arctis 7 wireless surround sound gaming headset. Besides its wireless connectivity, one of its key features is the bidirectional microphone.

Discord-certified, the mic is recognized as being one of the best, providing excellent frequency response as well as good noise cancellation. All in all, it is everything you need in a good gaming microphone. Whether you’re using it for gaming, teaching classes online, or for Zoom meets – the mic will make your voice sound clear as day.

Design

It is not only the mic that makes this headset multifunctional but the clean design of it as well. Minimalistic and sleek looking, it comes in either white or black.

The SteelSeries Arctis 7 wins our best premium award. For those wanting quality and style, and don’t mind paying a little under 150 bucks, this makes for an excellent upgrade from your tired old headphones. Invest a little extra and you get so much more. I personally wouldn’t mind showing up to my next Zoom meeting with this stylish headset.

The SteelSeries Artics 7 provides a premium steel headband with ski goggle elastic fabric, distributing weight evenly while eliminating pressure points to keep you comfortable throughout the entire day. The air-wave ear cushions keep your ears cool while providing comfort and quality you could only dream of.

Sound Quality

The Artics 7 emphasizes reproducing those subtle but important sounds to help keep you on your feet and in the game. Lossless wireless audio without latency, this Bluetooth headset has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, making it the ultimate game companion for those wanting an ultra-clear audio experience.

The SteelSeries Engine 3 lets you customize the audio settings in different ways. For example, switching from stereo to 7.1 surround sound, adjusting the output level at different frequencies, or setting the dynamic audio range.

Compatibility

The SteelSeries Artics 7 is compatible with PC and Mac, as well as PS4, Xbox One, and VR systems. The DTS Headphone X 7.1 surround sound is available for Windows 7-10 only.

What’s in the box?

3. Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Premium Wireless Surround Sound Headphones

The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 is a multi-purpose headset. Not only does it allow for chatting to friends while gaming but, through using the Turtle Beach audio hub app, you can take calls or even play music – all while gaming. Cool, right?

The mic itself is able to be pushed up when you’re not speaking, doing so automatically mutes the mic. This comes in really handy and saves you from ending up in awkward situations where you forgot to turn your mic off.

Another great thing about the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 is that its battery lasts for up to 10 hours! Whether wearing the headset to work, while ticking off your household chores, or while gaming – the Stealth 700 offers a whole day of 100% wireless joy.

The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 are solid wireless surround sound headphones that you can purchase for just under 150 dollars. Though the battery time is impressive, it does last fewer hours than the previous Turtle Beach 600 headset. This only really plays a part if you are unable to charge your headset after 10 hours. In today’s world, we are almost always close to an outlet so this is rarely going to be an issue.

Design

The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 has premium synthetic leather-wrapped ear cushions, with a special ProSpecs design, which provides extra comfort explicitly while gaming and wearing glasses. A smart move when it comes to the design of the headset is the rubber field Turtle Beach branding on top. It gives a slightly different experience without that glossy feel when holding the headset. The size of the headband itself is also adjustable, making it functional for all head sizes.

The ear cushions are comfortable as well as snug and will keep you from overheating during long gaming sessions. Not only does it provide comfort and practicality, but it also has 7.1 surround sound, together with active noise cancellation, to help you stay fully focused.

Sound Quality

Besides having a great deal of additional EQ presets, the Stealth 700 has lots to offer with the incorporation of 7.1 virtual surround sound, active noise cancellation, and Turtle Beach’s own Superhuman Hearing Technology – which can be favorable to used when sound cues are key to succeed in the game.

The 50mm cups produce a wide sound, with a great low end as well as treble. You can scroll through the different game audio presets until you are happy with the EQ settings. It really allows you to personalize the sound. The omnidirectional microphone produces good results with good voice amplification.

Compatibility

The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 has 100% wireless connectivity as mentioned earlier, though you can also use an optical jack to utilize the Dynamic Chat Boost features, as well as independent game/chat volume control on PS4 consoles. The Stealth 700 is compatible with Windows/macOS or iOS/Android apps through the Ear Force Audio Hub.

What’s in the box?

4. HyperX Cloud Alpha S – PC Gaming Headset

At almost 130 dollars, the HyperX Cloud Alpha S surround sound headphones provide enhanced in-game audio, with 3-level bass-adjustment sliders for optimal control. This gaming headset not only provides immersive 7.1 surround sound but also minimal distortion and great overall level control for audio. Its durable and comfortable design, paired with a detachable microphone, makes for easy everyday use for gaming or music listening, on PC and PS4.

This is a great headset because of its cool and attractive design, its great sound quality at a good price, as well as how comfortable it is. HyperX did not hold back with the memory foam padding. All the basics, but exceptionally delivered.

Design

Available in 3 different color choices: black, black and blue, and black and red. The ear cups as well as headband are padded with memory foam, just like the previous Cloud 1 and 2, but the Alpha S is a bit on the lighter side compared to the predecessors, thanks to its new aluminum frame.

If the high level of comfort you get with the HyperX Cloud Alpha S is not enough, they are also very well-made and long-lasting. Worth noting is that they are a bit on the warmer side, with the signature HyperX leatherette contact points around your ears.

Sound Quality

Compared to the Cloud Stinger, the HyperX Cloud Alpha S has a more extensive frequency response and advanced audio controls. The low end has a real boost, so if you are looking for something more neutral in terms of frequency response this one is not for you (though I think most of us enjoy pumped-up bass.) It works in unison with the mids and highs, which provides the clarity needed and together form a really well-balanced sound.

The Cloud Alpha S features a dual-chamber driver system that reduces distortion at high levels and provides a clearer sound. Pair this with its 7.1 virtual surround sound and 50mm driver and you get a headset for an easily personalized sound experience, whether you are gaming or listening to music. Another plus is that the HyperX Dual Chamber Drivers allows for separate tuning of the mids, highs, and bass frequencies to provide more distinction between sounds.

Compatibility

The HyperX Cloud Alpha S has a 3.5mm analog connection and is easily connected to a computer, console, or mobile device. There is also a dual jack extension lead for easily connecting to the front of the PC, which has in-line controls such as volume and microphone mute present on the cord. The Advanced Audio Control Mixer is compatible with PC and PS4.

What’s in the box?

5. Razer Kraken Tournament Edition THX 7.1 Surround Sound Headphones

It’s tournament time! For just under 100 dollars, the THX Razer Kraken Tournament Edition features THX Spatial Audio, providing a 360° audio experience. It has 50mm drivers, with oval cooling gel-infused cushions providing day-long comfort and a cardioid microphone for clear communication. The Razer Kraken Tournament Edition is compatible with various platforms, making it extra user friendly.

Comfort is key with this headset, and it is optimal for those wanting an affordable alternative for marathon gaming. Though it has lots to offer – simplicity and a sleek look just isn’t one of those things. Just like previous Razer headsets, it is bulky. It is sturdy though, and comfortable, to say the least.

Design

A padded headband and cooling gel-infused ear cushions reduce heat buildup while also providing noise cancellation and sound isolation. This makes the Razer Kraken a comfortable option for long marathon gaming, as well as for short sessions at home with friends.

The gel cushions do provide some help against heat buildup, though if you want them to provide even more, placing them in your fridge for a while before wearing them is not a bad idea.

The headset has a thick metal headband, which should be sturdy enough to last for ages, and the earcups seem robust enough as well as comfy with a lot of foam padding.

Sound Quality

Besides the extensive frequency response and powerful 40mm drivers, the 360° THX Spatial Audio simulates sound above, and below you, for an extra lifelike experience. Its magnet drivers power the deepest bass, warmest mids, and clearest high frequencies. This headset has an addition on its left side – the Bass toggle function. Moving this slider lets you EQ the bass whenever you feel it is lacking or overpowering.

On the right side of the headset are two controls as well: one to enable the THX Spatial Audio, and the other one is a chat mixer. These functions are well placed and make for an easy sound personalization mid-game.

Compatibility

Using a 3.5mm audio jack, the Tournament Edition has cross-platform compatibility – meaning it is compatible with PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and even with your mobile devices. It also includes a second cable, with a sound card to give you access to Razer Synapse software add-ons and the THX Spatial Audio. It also includes extra mic controls, independent of the ones accessible on the 3.5mm cable.

The audio enhancer DAC connects via a USB connector and its THX Spatial Audio is available on Windows 10 64-bit only.

What’s in the box?

6. Corsair VOID RGB Elite Wireless Gaming Headset

For just under 100 dollars, you get this Corsair VOID RGB Elite Gaming Headset with 7.1 surround sound. At first glance, it seems to be almost identical to the Corsair Void Pro RGB, but this newer version has a little bit more to offer. It is completely wireless, with a range of up to 40 feet and 16 hours of usage time. The frequency range is also expanded and now goes all the way up to 30kHz.

Though I must admit that seems impressive, it is generally agreed that we don’t really hear audio components above 20kHz. However, increasing the range may still be a good idea, to prevent audio distortion or artifacts to sip through. Style-wise, it is a fun product. You can personalize the headset with colors and effects with the RGB lighting on each ear cup. The headset also comes with a Discord-certified omnidirectional microphone to use for chatting with your opponents.

Design

Microfiber mesh fabric and memory foam earpads provide comfort while the aluminum yokes provide durability to last a long time. As previously mentioned, the RGB lighting on each ear cup gives you a chance to personalize and design the cups as you like them. This is a very cool addition to an already interesting-looking headset.

Sound Quality

The sound is quite warm, with a decent amount of bass depth. The mids and high could be better, but for gaming and not music purposes, they are adequate. With an expanded frequency range from 20Hz to 30kHz and high-density drivers, the Corsair Gaming Headset allows for a captivating game and audio experience, with some virtual surround sound immersion. The surround sound only comes into effect when connected to a PC though, which is a bit of a letdown.

Included with the headset is the omnidirectional mic, which easily swings down when you are wanting to use it, or up when you need it out of the way. The mic also comes with a small practical windbreak to eliminate annoying popping noises or excessive sibilance while you speak.

Compatibility

Connect wirelessly to your PC or PS4 using low-latency 2.4GHz wireless with the included USB adapter dongle. Plug it in and turn on the headset to pair it together easily.

What’s in the box?

7. Logitech G533 Wireless Gaming Headset

The Logitech G533 Wireless Gaming Headset came out in 2017 and is one of the better wireless offerings coming from the brand… let’s check out why! At around 74 dollars, this headset features Pro-G audio drivers with X 7.1 surround sound. The wireless range is up to 15 meters, and the battery time is really good – it lasts up to 15 hours! This is a gaming headset you can use the entire day.

It is your standard plastic-built gaming headset and it might be a little on the heavier side when you first hold it (12.5 oz), but the weight distributes nicely and evenly when they are on. One thing to note is that the joints may be experienced to be slightly loose, because of the fact that it is simply just built like that. Due to this, it may require some extra gentleness, and I would suggest keeping them in a separate case when moving around to solve the issue. Including a boom mic, as well as on-ear volume and mute controls, the G533 surround sound headphones make for a budget-friendly wireless option.

Design

As for the design of the Logitech G533, it is slightly on the larger side, with a glossy finish and with the well known “G” logo on each ear cup. Looking quite functional and non-extravagant. It does not include any unnecessary RGB lighting, so it should match the aesthetic of the gamer that isn’t into the whole science fiction look.

The ear cups are removable as well as washable, which is useful as they are easy to keep clean. They are made of a lightweight sports mesh material that makes for a comfortable gaming experience and keeps you cool, both temperature-wise and style-wise.

Sound Quality

The Logitech G533 surround sound headphones have a variety of audio options as well as equalization options for different genres, and various settings of both surround sound and stereo. It handles different genres nicely and its 7.1 surround sound option provides extra immersion for the game, such as letting you know from which direction the enemies are coming from. The dialogue and music can also seem bigger with these extra perspectives.

A great sounding headset at this price, the Pro G audio drivers and 7.1 surround sound recreate the in-depth effects and positional changes in the game audio world. The Logitech G533 has a lossless wireless digital audio transmission and manages to provide clarity in the high frequencies and deep bass as well. Compared to the G933, which offers lots in terms of functionality, the G533 seems plainer and still offers a great experience but for a better price.

Compatibility

This is a headset you would not wear out in public, as it is strictly PC and PS4 compatible – only through a USB connection.

What’s in the box?

8. Logitech G935 WirelessSurround Sound Headphones

The Logitech G935 is a continuation of the Logitech G9 series – with a similar design as well as features. It has the traditional Logitech branding and aesthetic, though this one has a bit of a cleaner and classier look, with a glossier finish and a small personalized G935 logo. I would describe this headset as being somewhere in between premium and cheap – the feel, the look, and the quality.

It can easily be hooked up to several different devices, with a 3.5mm connection. But with a 2.4gHz wireless setup and an impressive battery time of 12 hours, you’d rarely need to use it. The Logitech G935 is a PC gaming headset that delivers a great 3D landscape through the use of virtual surround sound, paired with high-quality audio that goes for just above 100 dollars.

Design

The ear cups are rectangular closed ear cups, in proprietary woven hybrid mesh and with leatherette padding material. The rectangular shape actually helps the headset stand up by itself. Together with the durable padded steel headband, this headset is soft and comfortable but rugged enough to stand to be used daily.

The design is still sort of bulky, but suits as a stationary headset specifically for gaming. The swiveling ear cups provide easy customization according to your head. It has a glowing LED strip together with the G branding on each ear cup, because without fun lights – is it really a gaming headset?

Sound Quality

With customizable volume, EQ, and surround sound settings per game paired with the next-gen 7.1 surround sound technology (X 2.0), the Logitech G935 performs above and beyond for extra precise positional audio. Featuring Logitech’s most expansive audio driver with an increased bass response and accuracy, and a 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response, this headset delivers a great sonic experience suitable for those in need of a wireless headset with minimal distortion.

The microphone itself sounds a little over-saturated when tested for hear-back or recordings, though I think that for gaming purposes it would still do the job. The mic conveniently and swiftly pulls out from the side of the left cup when you need to chat to friends or foes, and extends out.

Compatibility

Compatible with PC through the Logitech G Hub and the wireless USB adapter. The Logitech G935 can also use a 3.5mm cable to connect to another audio source, such as a smartphone. It can simultaneously playback through the PC, and through your smartphone. Something important to note is that the 7.1 surround sound feature is only available with a USB connection.

What’s in the box?

9. Razer Kraken X Ultralight Gaming Headset

The Razer Kraken X Ultralight Gaming Headset has everything you need in just under 50 dollars. Let’s explore its different functions. The analog audio controls for adjustments are within reach and located behind the left ear cup, and include controls for volume as well as muting/unmuting your microphone.

The headset includes a cardioid microphone, which can flex into multiple positions – just like previous Kraken releases. The mic can not be detached or hidden away, but the flexing feature helps to place it in a position that is most comfortable to you.

The cheap buck this goes for would make you think that it isn’t of very great quality. This is not the case as it really does have great features and provides extra good comfort for long gaming hours. The Razer Kraken X Ultralight is theultimate lightweightgaming headset, weighing only 8.8 ounces. It’s extremely comfortable to wear for longer periods of time, while not putting any unnecessary pressure on your head or ears. This also makes it a great option if you are wearing glasses.

Budget-friendly and comfortable! The Razer Kraken X Ultralight works well for basically any platform, whether you’re in the mood for Playstation, Xbox, or PC. It features 7.1 surround sound for an elevated experience and custom-tuned 40mm drivers for powerful and clear sound.

Design

Style and design-wise, it is probably the best looking Razer headset if you’re into the minimalistic design rather than over the top. The Razer Kraken X Ultralight surround sound headphones comes in classic black and in a black and blue chassis, in a design that is modern and sleek with each cup featuring the Razer logo.

Razer has succeeded in keeping to the traditional headset design without going overboard with colors and extra-ness. The Razer Kraken X Ultralight has oval ear cushions for comfort and a durable and flexible headband slider with soft padding. The ear cups have a swivel mechanism making it easy to adjust according to your head. It measures 7.5 x 6.5 inches and weighs only 8.8 ounces.

Sound Quality

Providing high quality and immersive surround sound audio experience, the Razer Kraken X Ultralight has a wide frequency response of 12Hz to 28kHz. It features powerful custom-tuned 40mm drivers, paired with sound isolating ear cups for limiting external distracting noises.

The Razer Kraken X Ultralight sounds great in games, focuses on the treble as well as voice work, but might not be ideal for music listening if you have higher standards when it comes to bass. Though for this asking price, I’d say provides what it is supposed to – quality audio specifically for gaming purposes.

Compatibility

The Razer Kraken X Ultralight is compatible with PC or Mac, PS4, Xbox One, or Nintendo Switch and other mobile devices via a 3.5mm audio jack.

What’s in the box?