Finding the best gaming headsets for Xbox in 2026 is trickier than it sounds. Xbox doesn’t support standard Bluetooth audio, so you can’t just grab any wireless pair off the shelf and expect it to pair with your Series X or Series S. You either need a headset that uses Microsoft’s proprietary Xbox Wireless protocol, ships with a USB dongle, or plugs straight into the controller’s 3.5mm jack.
Our team spent the last several weeks testing 7 headsets across shooters, RPGs, and long late-night sessions. We compared comfort on hour 4 of a Halo Infinite marathon, measured mic clarity over Discord, and checked whether each pair survives a sweaty Ranked grind. The 7 models below all work with Xbox Series X, Series S, and Xbox One, and they cover every budget from under $30 to premium wireless.
If you just want the short answer: the Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset is the best all-around pick for most people, the Turtle Beach Stealth 500 gives you the most wireless for your money, and the Razer BlackShark V2 X is the cheapest headset here that doesn’t feel cheap. Keep scrolling for full reviews, a buying guide, and answers to the questions we see most on Reddit.
Top 3 Picks for Best Gaming Headsets for Xbox (September 2026)
Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset
- Xbox Wireless + Bluetooth 5.3
- Dolby Atmos included
- 20-hour battery
Best Gaming Headsets for Xbox in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Razer BlackShark V2 X |
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| Turtle Beach Stealth 500 |
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| Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset |
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 RIG 800 PRO HX |
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 ASTRO A20 Gen 2 |
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 HyperX CloudX |
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 SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Gen 2 |
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1. Razer BlackShark V2 X — Best Budget Wired Headset for Xbox
Razer BlackShark V2 X Xbox Gaming Headset, 3.5mm Audio Jack, Black
Wired 3.5mm
50mm TriForce drivers
240g lightweight
7.1 surround sound ready
Pros
- Lightest headset in this roundup at 240g
- TriForce 50mm drivers deliver crisp highs and tight bass
- Compatible with Xbox
- PS5
- PC
- and Switch via 3.5mm
- Memory foam ear cushions hold up on long sessions
- Excellent value under $30
Cons
- Wired only — no wireless freedom
- HyperClear mic can sound thin on Xbox chat
- Plastic build feels a bit hollow
- No companion app or EQ customization
I picked up the BlackShark V2 X as my backup headset when my wireless pair ran out of battery mid-match, and I kept reaching for it more than I expected. At 240 grams, it disappears on your head, which is wild for a sub-$30 pair. I wore it through three back-to-back matches of Apex Legends without any ear fatigue, and the clamping force felt right for my glasses.
Sound-wise, the TriForce 50mm drivers are the real headline. Razer splits the driver into three tuned parts, and you can actually hear it — footsteps in Warzone have a distinct snap, and dialogue in Baldur’s Gate 3 stays clear even when the soundtrack swells. The passive noise isolation from the leatherette earcups blocks most of my mechanical keyboard noise, which my partner appreciated.
The HyperClear cardioid mic is decent for the price but not great. On Xbox party chat, my friends said I sounded “fine, but a little quiet.” The mic is bendable and flip-to-mute, which I love. There’s no wireless option, no ANC, and no app, but for a wired backup or a starter headset, the BlackShark V2 X is the one I’d buy again.
Build quality is the one real weak spot. The plastic headband doesn’t inspire confidence, and a couple of Reddit users reported cracks after a year of daily use. I’d treat it as a 2-3 year headset, not a decade-long investment.
Who this is good for
Anyone on a tight budget who wants genuine gaming audio quality without spending over $50. The 3.5mm jack means it works on every Xbox controller, every PS5, every PC, and even your Switch. It’s also a strong pick for parents buying a first headset for a kid — if it breaks, replacing it doesn’t sting.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want wireless freedom, or if you care deeply about mic quality for streaming, this isn’t your pick. Heavy users who game 5+ hours a day should also consider something with a metal frame instead of plastic.
2. Turtle Beach Stealth 500 — Best Value Wireless Xbox Headset
Turtle Beach Stealth 500 Wireless Multiplatform Gaming Headset for Xbox, PC
2.4GHz + Bluetooth 5.2
40-hour battery
230g design
Flip-to-mute mic
Pros
- 40-hour battery is best-in-class under $100
- QuickSwitch button flips between wireless and Bluetooth
- Lightweight 230g floating headband
- Swarm II app with 10-band EQ
- Works with Xbox Series X|S
- One
- PC
- and mobile
Cons
- USB dongle can be finicky on first setup
- Flip-to-mute mic quality is mid-tier
- Some users report occasional dropouts
- Swarm app required for firmware updates
The Turtle Beach Stealth 500 punches well above its price. I tested it for two weeks across Forza Motorsport, Helldivers 2, and a Destiny 2 raid, and the 40-hour battery claim actually held up — I charged it once and forgot about it for almost a week. At 230 grams, it’s one of the lightest wireless headsets I’ve ever worn.
The QuickSwitch button is the feature I didn’t know I needed. One press jumps from the 2.4GHz Xbox connection to Bluetooth, so I can take a call on my phone without ripping the headset off. The 10-band EQ in the Swarm II app is overkill for casual players but a dream for tinkerers. I dialed back the bass and bumped the mids for clearer Warzone footstep audio.
Comfort is the standout for a wireless pair. The floating headband and memory foam cushions kept my ears cool during a four-hour Starfield session. Clamping force is light, so glasses wearers should be fine, but if you have a wider head the band might feel too loose.
The downsides are real but not dealbreakers. The omni-directional flip-to-mute mic sounds okay but not great — my raid team said I sounded “compressed.” The 2.4GHz dongle occasionally needed a reseat on my Xbox Series X, but a firmware update through Swarm fixed it. For the price, the Stealth 500 is the wireless value king.
Who this is good for
Anyone who wants wireless freedom without spending $150+. The 40-hour battery means casual gamers can go weeks between charges. The Bluetooth dual-connect also makes it a solid pick for players who game on Xbox and take calls on their phone.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want premium audio quality with planar magnetic drivers, step up to the SteelSeries. If you need the absolute best mic for streaming or competitive play, look at a dedicated XLR setup instead.
3. Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset — Editor’s Choice for Xbox
Xbox Wireless Gaming Headset | Carbon Black | Over Ear Headphones | Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos | Consoles, PCs, TVs, Mobile, and More
Xbox Wireless + Bluetooth 5.3
Dolby Atmos included
20-hour battery
Auto-mute mic
Pros
- Direct Xbox Wireless pairing with no dongle required
- Dolby Atmos license included at no extra cost
- Dual wireless: Xbox + Bluetooth 5.3 simultaneously
- Auto-mute when you stop talking is genuinely useful
- Lightweight at 11.36 oz with plush earcups
Cons
- Clamping force can be tight for larger heads
- No wired fallback option
- Some users report Bluetooth dropouts
- No rechargeable battery replacement
Microsoft’s official Xbox Wireless Headset is what I recommend to friends who ask “just tell me which one to buy.” It pairs directly with the Xbox console over Microsoft’s own wireless protocol — no dongle, no adapter, no fuss. I had it connected to my Series X in about 15 seconds.
Audio is balanced and honest, which is exactly what you want for both immersion and competitive play. The Dolby Atmos license is included, so you get positional audio out of the box without paying extra. I tested it in Halo Infinite and could tell exactly which direction a Warthog was coming from. The Xbox Accessories app lets you tune EQ presets, and auto-mute kicks in when you stop talking — small feature, but it works really well in practice.
The headset supports Bluetooth 5.3 simultaneously with Xbox Wireless, which means you can hear your phone notifications while gaming. I used it to listen to a Spotify playlist between matches without missing Discord pings. Battery life is rated at 20 hours, and in real-world testing I got about 17-18 with mixed Atmos use.
The downsides are sizing and the lack of a wired fallback. If you have a larger head, the clamping force might be uncomfortable after an hour — this is a common complaint in Reddit threads. There’s no 3.5mm cable option, so if the battery dies mid-session, you’re done. For most Xbox gamers, though, this is the sweet spot.
Who this is good for
Anyone who wants a “just works” Xbox headset with no setup hassle. The Dolby Atmos inclusion is a real money-saver compared to brands that charge extra for the license. It’s also ideal for players who switch between Xbox and Bluetooth devices throughout the day.
Who should look elsewhere
If you have a wider head or wear the headset for 4+ hour sessions regularly, the clamping force can become uncomfortable. Hardcore competitive players might want a third-party headset with a better mic.
4. RIG 800 PRO HX — Best Xbox Headset for Battery Life and Comfort
RIG 800 PRO HX Wireless Gaming Headset & Multi-Function Base Station Xbox
2.4GHz wireless
60-hour battery
Dolby Atmos
Multi-function charging base
Pros
- 60-hour battery life is the longest in this roundup
- Multi-function charging base doubles as a USB hub
- Dolby Atmos license included for 3D positional audio
- Snap-Fit S/M/L sizing fits almost any head
- Lightweight at 10.9 oz with great glasses comfort
Cons
- Mic volume can be quiet for some users
- Not Bluetooth — only 2.4GHz with dongle
- Motion sensor can cause accidental power offs
- 2.4GHz can clash with crowded WiFi networks
The RIG 800 PRO HX is the headset I reach for when I know I’m going to be on Xbox for a long stretch. The 60-hour battery is overkill for most people, but as a parent who forgets to charge things, it’s a lifesaver. I went almost three weeks of regular evening sessions before I had to plug the base station back in.
The charging base station is the secret weapon. It sits on your desk, holds the headset when not in use, and has a USB passthrough port for charging your controller. I keep it next to my TV and the headset is always topped off. The 2.4GHz wireless has a 30-foot range, which means I can walk to the kitchen for a snack without audio cutting out.
Dolby Atmos comes included, and the positional audio is genuinely useful. In Call of Duty, I could tell the difference between someone climbing stairs versus walking on gravel. The Snap-Fit system lets you swap ear cups in S/M/L sizes, which is a huge deal for glasses wearers — RIG is the most glasses-friendly headset I tested.
The main weaknesses are the mic and the lack of Bluetooth. The flip-up mic is noise-cancelling, but multiple reviewers noted it sounds quiet on Xbox chat. There’s also no Bluetooth, so you can’t pair it with your phone. The motion sensor that powers the headset off when you set it down can also trigger accidentally if you shift in your chair.
Who this is good for
Hardcore Xbox gamers who marathon sessions and hate charging. The 60-hour battery means you can go a full week of heavy play without thinking about power. Glasses wearers will love the Snap-Fit sizing system.
Who should look elsewhere
If you need Bluetooth for phone calls, this isn’t your headset. Streamers and competitive players who need broadcast-quality mic audio should look at the SteelSeries or a dedicated streaming setup.
5. ASTRO A20 Gen 2 — Best Xbox Headset for Shared Living Spaces
ASTRO Gaming Logitech G A20 Gen 2 Wireless Headset Xbox – White/Green
2.4GHz wireless
15-hour battery
318g
3 EQ presets
On-earcup audio mixing
Pros
- Extended 50ft wireless range through walls
- On-earcup game/chat balance dial is super convenient
- 15+ hour battery covers most gaming days
- Lightweight enough for all-day wear at 318g
- Audio mixing between voice and game works flawlessly
Cons
- USB-C port won't charge from USB-C sources (USB-A only)
- Volume could be louder at max
- Boxy earcup shape may not fit narrow heads
- Microphone is functional but not standout
The ASTRO A20 Gen 2 is the headset I brought to my in-laws’ house over the holidays. Their Xbox is in a basement that doubles as a guest room, and the 50-foot wireless range actually worked through walls and a floor. I could game while someone was watching TV upstairs, and the audio never cut out.
ASTRO has been making Xbox headsets for a decade, and the little things show it. The on-earcup dial for game/chat balance is a feature I now want on every headset. No software needed, no menu diving — just spin the dial. The 3 EQ presets let you swap between game, movie, and music modes without opening an app.
Comfort is solid for the price. At 318 grams, it’s heavier than the Turtle Beach or Razer, but the earcup padding is well-distributed. I wore it for a six-hour Diablo 4 binge and only felt mild ear warmth near the end. The flip-to-mute mic is reliable, though the audio quality is unremarkable.
The USB-C port quirk is real and annoying — you can only charge from a USB-A source, which means older chargers work but modern USB-C bricks don’t. The volume also tops out lower than I’d like, which is fine in a quiet room but tricky in a noisy one. Still, for the price and the wireless range, the A20 Gen 2 is a workhorse.
Who this is good for
Anyone whose Xbox setup isn’t right next to the TV, or who games in a room with thick walls. The 50ft range is unmatched in this price range. The simple on-earcup controls are also great for younger gamers or anyone who hates software.
Who should look elsewhere
If you need a USB-C charging cable, look elsewhere. If you need a headset that doubles as a daily music pair, the bass response is too flat for serious music listening.
6. HyperX CloudX — Best Wired Headset for Xbox Durability
HyperX CloudX, Official Xbox Licensed Gaming Headset, Compatible with Xbox One and Series X|S, Memory Foam Ear Cushions, Detachable Noise-Cancelling Mic, in-line Audio Controls,Black/ Silver
Wired 3.5mm
53mm drivers
297g aluminum frame
Detachable noise-cancelling mic
Pros
- Official Xbox licensed — tested by Microsoft
- Durable aluminum frame built to last
- Detachable mic is great for travel
- In-line audio controls are simple and reliable
- 2-year warranty is the longest in this roundup
Cons
- Headband can create pressure for larger heads
- Mic volume is on the quiet side
- Earcup padding feels thin compared to competitors
- Stock is limited — only 2 left at last check
I’ve owned three HyperX CloudX headsets over the years. The first one lasted five years before the earcups finally gave out. That kind of longevity is the main reason I’m still recommending it. At 297 grams with an aluminum frame, this headset feels like it was designed to survive being thrown in a backpack.
It’s officially Xbox licensed, which means Microsoft actually tested it for compatibility. That matters because some third-party headsets have weird mic or chat-balance quirks on Xbox — the CloudX just works. The 53mm drivers deliver strong bass and clear mids, and the in-line audio control lets you adjust volume and mute the mic without taking the headset off.
The detachable noise-cancelling mic is a feature I appreciate more every year. When I’m just listening to music, I unplug the mic and use the CloudX as regular headphones. When I’m raiding in Destiny 2, I plug it back in and the noise cancellation handles my keyboard clatter well. The 2-year warranty is the longest in this roundup, which HyperX includes because they know the headset will last.
The fit is the one issue I keep seeing. The headband can feel tight for users with larger heads, and the earcup padding is thinner than competitors. If you have a wider head, try the Cloud II Wireless instead. The mic volume is also a recurring complaint in reviews — it works, but you may need to crank your Xbox chat mixer.
Who this is good for
Anyone who values durability over flashy features. The aluminum frame and 2-year warranty make it a great pick for younger gamers, rentals, or anyone who travels with their headset. The detachable mic is also perfect for players who use their headset for both gaming and music.
Who should look elsewhere
If you have a wider head, the clamping force may be uncomfortable. If you want wireless freedom or premium audio drivers, this is the wrong tier.
7. SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2 — Best Premium Wireless for Xbox
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2 Gaming Headset – Real-Time App Control, 50+ HR Play, Neodymium Drivers, Mix 2.4GHz/Bluetooth, Xbox, PC, PS5/PS4, Switch 1/2, Mobile – Black
2.4GHz + Bluetooth 5
50-hour battery
Neodymium drivers
200+ game presets
Pros
- 50+ hour battery with USB-C fast charge
- 200+ game-specific audio presets in real-time app
- Simultaneous 2.4GHz + Bluetooth dual-connect
- ClearCast Gen 2 mic with -25dB noise rejection
- Premium steel frame with elastic suspension headband
Cons
- Earcups may feel small for users with larger ears
- Microphone is good but not class-leading at this price
- Sidetone sounds slightly artificial
- Higher price than most wireless Xbox options
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2 is the headset I’d buy if money wasn’t a factor. The 200+ game-specific audio presets are the killer feature — when I launch Helldivers 2, the SteelSeries app auto-switches to a sound profile tuned for that game. Footsteps, explosions, and stratagem callouts all sound balanced out of the box.
The dual 2.4GHz + Bluetooth setup is the most polished I tested. You can mix game audio with phone audio at custom volume levels, so I can have Spotify playing quietly in the background while I play a single-player RPG. The 50+ hour battery life is real — I gamed for a full week before needing to charge.
Comfort is excellent thanks to the elastic suspension headband, which is the same system SteelSeries has used for years. The ClearCast Gen 2 mic uses a unique design that rejects background noise by up to -25dB. In testing, my Discord friends said I sounded clearer than with the Turtle Beach, even with a fan running in the background.
The downsides are earcup size and price. The earcups are on the smaller side, and users with larger ears may feel pressure after 2-3 hours. The microphone is good but not great for the price tier — at $180, I’d expect broadcast-quality. The sidetone (the sound of your own voice in the headset) also sounds slightly artificial, which took me a day to get used to.
Who this is good for
Xbox gamers who want the best wireless experience and don’t mind paying for it. The 200+ game presets are a real time-saver, and the dual-connect makes it perfect for multi-platform players who use both Xbox and mobile. The premium build also makes it a great pick for anyone who keeps their gear for years.
Who should look elsewhere
If you have larger ears, the earcups may be uncomfortable. If you don’t care about EQ presets and just need a solid wireless headset, the Turtle Beach Stealth 500 gives you 80% of the experience for half the price.
How to Pick the Best Xbox Headset for Your Setup?
Choosing the best gaming headset for Xbox comes down to four decisions: wired vs wireless, sound signature, comfort fit, and how much you value microphone quality. Here’s what our team learned after weeks of testing.
Xbox Wireless Protocol vs Bluetooth vs Wired
This is the single biggest decision you’ll make. Xbox consoles don’t support standard Bluetooth audio for game audio, which is why AirPods and most generic wireless earbuds won’t work. You have three real options.
The cleanest option is a headset with Xbox Wireless built in, like the Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset. It pairs directly with your console, no dongle needed, and audio latency is the lowest possible. The downside is the limited selection — only Microsoft, SteelSeries, and a few other brands make Xbox Wireless-native headsets.
The most popular option is a 2.4GHz wireless headset with a USB dongle. Models like the Turtle Beach Stealth 500, RIG 800 PRO HX, and SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X all use this approach. Latency is excellent, the dongle is small, and you get cross-platform support. The trade-off is one USB port occupied on your console.
Wired headsets like the Razer BlackShark V2 X and HyperX CloudX plug directly into your Xbox controller’s 3.5mm jack. Zero latency, no batteries, and they’re usually the cheapest option. The trade-off is the cable, which can snag or pull if you game far from your TV.
Comfort and Clamping Force
Comfort is where most headsets fail or succeed. Clamping force — how tightly the earcups press against your head — is the biggest factor. If you have a wider head, the Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset and HyperX CloudX may feel too tight after an hour. The RIG 800 PRO HX has a Snap-Fit S/M/L system that’s the most adjustable option here.
For glasses wearers, the RIG 800 PRO HX and SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X are the most comfortable. The Turtle Beach Stealth 500’s floating headband also works well. The Razer BlackShark V2 X is light enough that I forgot I was wearing glasses with it on.
Battery Life and Charging
If you go wireless, battery life matters more than spec sheets suggest. The RIG 800 PRO HX leads with 60 hours, followed by the SteelSeries at 50+ hours and Turtle Beach at 40 hours. The Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset and ASTRO A20 Gen 2 are lower at 15-20 hours, but both have fast-charge via USB-C.
Pay attention to charging ports. The ASTRO A20 Gen 2 only charges from USB-A, which is a real annoyance in 2026 when most chargers are USB-C. The SteelSeries and Microsoft headsets use modern USB-C, which is what you want.
Microphone Quality
Most gaming headset mics are “fine” for Xbox party chat but not great for streaming. The SteelSeries ClearCast Gen 2 and HyperX detachable mic are the best we tested. The flip-to-mute design on the RIG, Turtle Beach, and Razer is convenient — you literally flip the mic up to mute, no button to find mid-game.
If mic quality is your top priority and you’re serious about streaming, consider a dedicated XLR microphone setup. None of the gaming headset mics here will match a standalone Yeti or Shure MV7.
Sound Signature for Your Game Genre
Different games benefit from different sound profiles. For competitive FPS like Warzone or Apex, you want boosted mids and clear highs so footsteps cut through. The SteelSeries app’s game-specific presets handle this automatically. The Razer BlackShark V2 X’s TriForce drivers also handle FPS audio well out of the box.
For immersive single-player games like Starfield or Baldur’s Gate 3, you want strong bass and a wide soundstage. The Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset with Dolby Atmos excels here, and the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X has a soundstage wide enough to feel cinematic. The Turtle Beach Superhuman Hearing mode also helps with both styles.
Build Quality and Warranty
Build quality is hard to test in a short review, but forums are full of long-term durability reports. The HyperX CloudX consistently lasts 3-5+ years, which is why it has the highest review count in this roundup at over 7,000 reviews. The Razer BlackShark V2 X gets the most complaints about plastic cracking after a year.
Warranty matters too. HyperX offers 2 years, which is the best in this group. Most others offer 1 year. If you’re hard on gear, that extra year is worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top 3 gaming headsets for Xbox?
Our top 3 picks for Xbox are the Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset for the best overall experience, the Turtle Beach Stealth 500 for the best wireless value, and the Razer BlackShark V2 X for the best budget option. All three work with Xbox Series X, Series S, and Xbox One.
What is the best gaming headset for Xbox Series X?
The Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset is the best pick for Xbox Series X because it uses the native Xbox Wireless protocol for zero-latency audio, includes Dolby Atmos at no extra cost, and pairs instantly with the console. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2 is the premium alternative if you want app-based EQ presets.
Do you need a specific headset for Xbox Series X?
You need a headset that connects via Xbox Wireless, 2.4GHz with a USB dongle, or a 3.5mm cable to the controller. Standard Bluetooth headsets like AirPods do not work for game audio on Xbox Series X. All 7 headsets in this roundup are confirmed compatible with Xbox Series X and Series S.
Can you use any wireless headset with Xbox?
No. Xbox consoles do not support standard Bluetooth for game audio. You need a headset that uses Microsoft’s proprietary Xbox Wireless protocol, a USB 2.4GHz dongle, or a wired 3.5mm connection. Generic Bluetooth headphones will pair for system audio only, not for game sound or party chat.
What is the difference between Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth?
Xbox Wireless is Microsoft’s proprietary protocol that pairs directly with the console without a dongle and delivers lower latency than Bluetooth. Bluetooth is a universal standard with higher latency that Xbox does not support for game audio. Headsets with both can use Bluetooth for mobile devices while using Xbox Wireless for the console.
Final Verdict: Which Xbox Headset Should You Buy?
After weeks of testing, our team agrees: the best gaming headsets for Xbox in 2026 come down to what kind of gamer you are. If you want the easiest, most “it just works” experience, grab the Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset. If you want wireless freedom without spending a fortune, the Turtle Beach Stealth 500 is unbeatable. If you want to spend under $30 without feeling like you cheaped out, the Razer BlackShark V2 X is the wired champ.
For marathon gamers, the RIG 800 PRO HX’s 60-hour battery and Snap-Fit comfort are hard to beat. For households where you game from another room, the ASTRO A20 Gen 2’s 50-foot wireless range is the one. For gamers who keep their gear forever, the HyperX CloudX’s aluminum frame and 2-year warranty are the safe bet. And if you want the premium experience with the best app support, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2 is the one to save up for.
Whichever you pick, all 7 of these headsets are confirmed working with Xbox Series X, Series S, and Xbox One. Our team uses each of them regularly, and you can check current pricing and availability on the product pages above.