#Ad · Using our links supports DealDepot: the shop may pay us a small commission. Why?
A gaming headset is one of the most popular gifts for gamers, but it’s also one of the easiest to get wrong. A headset that works brilliantly on a PC might not connect to an Xbox at all, and a Bluetooth headset won’t pair with a PS5. This guide explains which types of headset work with which consoles, what actually matters for sound and comfort, and which well-reviewed headsets are on offer in Ireland right now.
We haven’t tested these products ourselves. Our picks are based on independent expert reviews (linked below) and the manufacturers’ specifications. Prices change often, so each product links to today’s price.
Quick answer: which headset for which console?
| Console | Wired (3.5mm) | Wireless with USB dongle (2.4GHz) | Bluetooth |
|---|---|---|---|
| PS5 | Yes, plug into the controller | Yes, most PC/PlayStation dongles work | No, not directly |
| Xbox Series X|S | Yes, plug into the controller | Only “Xbox” versions | No |
| Nintendo Switch 2 | Yes, console or controller jack | Usually, via USB-C or the dock | Yes, for game audio |
| PC / Mac | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Phones and tablets | Yes (adapter may be needed) | Some, with a USB-C dongle | Yes |
In short: wired headsets work almost everywhere, 2.4GHz wireless gives the best wireless experience on PlayStation and PC, Xbox needs an Xbox-specific wireless headset, and Bluetooth is best for phones, PCs and the Switch 2. Always check the box for the console you’ll use.
The three types of connection
Wired (3.5mm or USB)
A wired headset with a standard 3.5mm jack plugs straight into a PS5 or Xbox controller, the Switch 2, a PC or a phone (with an adapter if your phone has no headphone jack). There’s no battery to charge and no lag, and wired headsets usually give the best sound for the money. The downside is the cable, which can be annoying from the couch.
2.4GHz wireless (USB dongle)
Most dedicated gaming headsets use a small USB transmitter (dongle or base station) that plugs into the console or PC. This gives low-latency, reliable sound that keeps up with fast games. On PS5 and PC, most 2.4GHz headsets work as soon as you plug in the dongle.
Xbox is the exception. Xbox Series X|S uses Microsoft’s own wireless system, so a wireless headset only works if it’s made for Xbox (look for “Designed for Xbox” or an Xbox version). Many brands sell the same headset in a PlayStation version and an Xbox version; the Xbox version often works on PlayStation and PC too, but not the other way round.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is what phones, tablets and laptops use. It’s convenient, but it adds a small delay (latency), which you might notice in fast games, and the microphone quality is often lower. The PS5 and Xbox don’t let you connect Bluetooth headphones directly. The Switch 2 does support Bluetooth audio, but check whether the headset’s microphone works for in-game chat.
Some headsets have both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth. That’s handy: you can play on your console over 2.4GHz and take phone calls or listen to music over Bluetooth at the same time.
What to look for
Comfort first
Gaming sessions can last hours, so comfort matters more than almost anything else. Look at the weight (lighter is usually better for long sessions), the earcup padding (memory foam, and fabric or leatherette covers), and how tight the headband feels. If you wear glasses, softer earcups help.
Sound
Bigger drivers (the speakers in each earcup) don’t automatically mean better sound, but 40–53mm drivers are typical for good gaming headsets. For competitive games, clear footsteps and good stereo positioning matter more than heavy bass. Many headsets support virtual surround sound or 3D audio, such as Sony’s Tempest 3D Audio on PS5, Windows Sonic or Dolby Atmos on Xbox and PC.
Microphone
If you play online with friends, a clear microphone is important. Detachable or flip-to-mute mics are useful, and some newer headsets use AI noise reduction to cut background noise. Check reviews: mic quality varies a lot, even on expensive headsets.
Battery life
Wireless gaming headsets now range from about 20 hours to well over 100 hours per charge. Anything over 30 hours means you’ll charge it a couple of times a week at most. Look for USB-C charging, and check whether you can use it while charging.
Open-back or closed-back?
Most gaming headsets are closed-back: they block outside noise and don’t leak sound. Open-back headsets sound more spacious but let noise in and out, so they suit quiet rooms and solo players.
Budget guide
| Budget | What you get |
|---|---|
| Under €50 | Good wired headsets and basic Bluetooth models. Fine for casual gaming and kids. |
| €50–€120 | Good wireless 2.4GHz headsets, better mics and longer battery life. |
| €120–€250 | Premium wireless with dual connection, excellent comfort and very long battery life. |
| €250+ | Flagship headsets with active noise cancelling, swappable batteries and high-end sound. |
Well-reviewed gaming headsets on offer
HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless: for marathon sessions
A comfortable wireless headset with an enormous battery life (up to 250 hours on 2.4GHz, according to HyperX) and the ability to use 2.4GHz and Bluetooth at the same time. Reviewers praise the comfort and battery; music sound is only average and the software is basic. Works with PC, PS5, PS4, Switch and phones.
Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 3: best value wireless
A great-value wireless headset with 2.4GHz and Bluetooth, a clear AI noise-reducing mic and up to 80 hours of battery (Turtle Beach’s figure). The controls are crowded on one earcup and sound can distort at very high volume. Turtle Beach sells PlayStation and Xbox versions, so pick the one for your console.
Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT: fun Bluetooth headset for phones and Switch
A light, eye-catching Bluetooth headset with cat ears and RGB lighting, ideal for phones, laptops and handhelds. As it’s Bluetooth only, it won’t connect directly to a PS5 or Xbox. Sound and mic are average, so buy it for the style.
- 18.3
Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 3 Wireless Gaming Headset
Best for: Console gamers
A great-value wireless gaming headset with immersive sound, a clear AI noise-reducing mic, comfortable earcups and a huge 80-hour battery. The controls are crowded on one side and sound can distort at very high volume, but it’s one of the best budget picks.
What we like
- Up to 80 hours battery
- Comfortable memory foam earcups
- Clear mic with noise reduction
- Works across consoles and PC
Watch out for
- Cluttered controls on one earcup
- Distorts at high volume
See today’s price - 28.2
HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless Gaming Headset
Best for: PC and console gamers
-23%A very good wireless gaming headset with an enormous battery life, a comfortable fit and the handy ability to use 2.4GHz and Bluetooth at the same time. Music sound is only average and the software is still basic, but for long gaming sessions it’s excellent.
What we like
- Up to 250 hours of battery (2.4GHz)
- Use 2.4GHz and Bluetooth together
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Strong positional sound for games
Watch out for
- Average for music
- Base station suits desktop setups
- Software still in beta
€229Was €299-23% - 37.4
Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT Wireless Headset (Pink)
Best for: Gaming on the go
-37%A fun, eye-catching Bluetooth headset that’s light, easy to pair and great for gaming on phones, laptops and handhelds. Sound and mic quality are only average, so buy it for the style rather than audio performance.
What we like
- Fun design with RGB kitty ears
- Light and sturdy
- Easy Bluetooth pairing
- Decent battery life
Watch out for
- Average sound quality
- Mic could be better
- Limited earcup movement
€99.99Was €159-37%
Tips before you buy a headset as a gift
- Find out which console they play on most, and whether they also game on PC or phone.
- For Xbox players, make sure a wireless headset is the Xbox version.
- For PS5 players, avoid Bluetooth-only headsets.
- For younger gamers, look for volume limiting, and a wired or simple wireless model.
- Keep the gift receipt: comfort is personal and fit varies.
More gaming ideas: best gaming gifts, the Logitech G305 wireless mouse and all Black Friday deals in Ireland.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Bluetooth headphones on a PS5?
Not directly. The PS5 doesn’t support Bluetooth headphones. Plug a wired headset into the controller, or use a headset with a USB wireless dongle.
Will a PlayStation headset work on Xbox?
Wired ones will, through the controller’s 3.5mm jack. Wireless PlayStation headsets usually won’t, because Xbox uses its own wireless system. Buy the Xbox version for Xbox.
Does the Nintendo Switch 2 support wireless headsets?
Yes. The Switch 2 supports Bluetooth audio, and many 2.4GHz headsets work through a USB-C dongle or the dock. Check the headset maker’s compatibility list.
Is wireless worse than wired for gaming?
Good 2.4GHz wireless headsets have very low latency and are fine even for competitive games. Bluetooth has more delay. Wired headsets have no delay and need no charging.
Sources: Tom’s Hardware: HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless review, Tom’s Guide: Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 3 review, Xbox Support: headsets on Xbox, Android Central: Bluetooth devices on PS5, Tom’s Guide: Bluetooth headphones on Switch 2.