The Best Wired Headset With Microphone For 2024

Dan Simmons By, Dan Simmons
Updated
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Multi-System Gaming Headset
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Multi-System Gaming Headset

A comfortable and affordable gaming headset for all platforms, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro has universal connectivity for PC, PS4, Xbox, and Switch. With padded air weave ear cushions and adjustable steel-reinforced headband, it provides long-lasting comfort and durability. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: HyperX Cloud Alpha S - PC Gaming Headset

Designed for PC gaming, the HyperX Cloud Alpha S features a custom-tuned 7.1 surround sound and dual-chamber drivers for crystal clear audio. The newly engineered steel frame is sturdy, lightweight and features an aluminium finish. Read Review

3. Best Quality: SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wired Gaming Headset

Get a perfect fit and lasting durability in the SteelSeries Arctis 1 Gaming Headset. The steel-reinforced headband is designed for comfort and an adjustable fit. The low-profile design and detachable microphone are perfect for on the go. Read Review

4. Best Powerful: Jabra Evolve 40 Professional Wired Headset

The Jabra Evolve 40 is a professional-grade headset designed for all-day comfort. With two different styles of ear cushions and an on-the-ear design, you can wear the Evolve 40 for hours without experiencing irritation or discomfort. Read Review

When you're gaming online, every second counts. You need a wired headset with a microphone that provides high-quality sound and is ready to go whenever you log on. Wired headsets can plug directly into your computer or console instead of needing a wireless signal to operate as most wireless headsets do. These are the best-wired headsets for gamers who want high-quality sound and a microphone to coordinate with teammates or trash-talk opponents.

We've got you covered if you're looking for the best-wired gaming headset with a mic. This list has some of the top options that won't break the bank but will provide excellent sound quality and last a long time. 

You are strongly encouraged to pay close attention to the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Multi-System Gaming Headset as our top product. Or you can check the HyperX Cloud Alpha S - PC Gaming Headset as the other great option, even if the first option didn't meet all of your requirements. Let's look at what we think are some of the Best wired headsets with microphones out there right now.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Multi-System Gaming Headset
Our Score:
9.7
SteelSeries
  • Adjustable for Perfect Fit - The ComfortMAX system includes height-adjustable rotating earcups, a flexible suspension band, and a glasses-friendly build to ensure a comfy wear no matter how long you play.
  • Multi-System Connect - Plug in two systems at once and switch between them with a press of a button. The GameDAC Gen 2 streamlines your experience to create the ultimate multimedia base.
  • Almighty Audio - Experience ultimate clarity and sound clarity with Premium High Fidelity Drivers. Fully customize the sound experience with the Sonar Software by using a first-in-gaming Pro-grade Parametric EQ.
  • Hi-Res Audio Certified - The GameDAC Gen 2 supercharges your game audio with 78% purer signal (in comparison to GameDAC Gen 1), elevating the resolution to 96KHz/24-Bit for a much more detailed, richer soundscape
  • AI Powered Noise-Cancelling Mic -The ClearCast Gen 2 mic silences background noise to give you crystal clear comms, backed by Sonar Software's powerful AI algorithms. The mic also fully retracts into the earcup for a sleeker look.
  • Easy Settings - Adjust EQ, input device, volume, ChatMix, and so much more with the touch of a finger, using the GameDAC Gen 2. Set up the perfect audio for PC or console directly from the multi-function OLED display.
  • 360° Spatial Audio - Immersive surround sound transports you to the gaming world, letting you hear every critical step, reload, or vocal cue to give you an advantage. *Fully compatible with Tempest 3D Audio for PS5 / Microsoft Spatial Sound
TOP Choice #2 HyperX Cloud Alpha S - PC Gaming Headset
Our Score:
9.6
HyperX
  • Detachable noise cancellation mic and braided cable
  • Advanced audio control mixer
  • Durable aluminum frame
  • Connectivity technology: Wired
  • Custom-tuned HyperX 7.1 surround sound
  • Bass adjustment sliders
  • Signature HyperX comfort
  • Game and chat balance
  • HyperX Dual chamber drivers
TOP Choice #3 SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wired Gaming Headset
Our Score:
9.5
SteelSeries
  • Detachable ClearCast noise canceling microphone provides natural sounding clarity and is Discord certified
  • Adjustable steel-reinforced headband for a perfect fit and lasting durability
  • Perfect for on-the-go with a sleek, low-profile design, detachable microphone, and fold-flat earcups
  • Featuring the same signature soundscape, emphasizing subtle, yet critical sounds to give you an audio advantage
  • The Cord length is "1.2 m / 4 ft"
  • Optimal PS5 compatibility requires user to change settings on Sony PS5 – disable Sony 3D Audio and then increase default volume to 100%
  • BE MORE PRODUCTIVE – Stay in the zone and avoid interruptions thanks to the busylight that automatically turns on during a call to let others know to not disturb you. It can also be manually activated, so it’s a call center headset that keeps you focused
  • PROFESSIONAL HEADSET – The Jabra Evolve 40 pro headset is built for greater productivity and amazing sound quality for calls and music
  • COMPATIBILITY – This office headset works with all leading UC platforms and is optimized for Microsoft Teams. Certified for Skype for Business, Cisco, and more. It is also compatible with all of the most popular online voice call services
  • FLEXIBLE CONNECTIVITY – The 3.5mm jack lets you connect this Jabra headset to your personal device, such as a smartphone or tablet, so you can work or listen to music wherever you are. It also has a USB connector for even more flexibility
  • ALL-DAY COMFORT – The on-the-ear headset design along with the leather-feel cushions provide all-day comfort. Plus, simply wearing them eliminates high-frequency noises, such as human voices, to help you stay comfortable and connected
5 Logitech G PRO X Gaming Headset
Our Score:
9.1
Logitech G
  • Built to last with a durable aluminum fork and steel headband. Impedance - 35 Ohm
  • PRO X gaming headset also comes with a mobile cable featuring an inline mic so you can use the headset without the boom mic. The headset also includes a carrying bag to keep the headset and accessories protected during travel. 2-year Limited hardware warranty
  • Next gen 7.1 and object based surround sound for greater in game positional, distance, and object awareness during gameplay. Requires included USB external sound card, Windows PC, and Logitech G HUB software
  • Detachable pro grade microphone featuring real time Blue Voice technology, including noise reducer, compressor, limiter and more for cleaner, professional sounding voice comms; Requires included USB external sound card, Windows PC, and Logitech G HUB software
  • Soft memory foam ear-pads with your choice of premium passive noise canceling leatherette or soft, breathable velour for supreme comfort
  • Premium USB external sound card with EQ profile storage delivers tournament level game sound and voice comms. Use Logitech G HUB to save EQ settings to onboard memory to use or tournament systems; Requires PC running G HUB software
  • Pro designed EQ profiles available for download with Logitech G Hub software; Onboard memory lets you save user or pro tuned 5 band EQ for tournament use
  • Advanced PRO G 50 millimeter drivers deliver clear and precise sound imaging with improved bass response. Hear footsteps and environmental cues with clarity to give you the competitive advantage in game
6 Razer Kraken Ultimate RGB USB
Our Score:
9.0
Razer
  • Retractable, Active Noise Cancelling Microphone: An improved mic with ANC reduces background and ambient noises for crystal-clear communication
  • Ultimate Personalization and Gaming Immersion with Razer Chroma: Offers effortless, full integration with popular game titles and syncs with Razer hardware, Philips Hue, and gear from 30 plus partners; supports 16.8 million colors
  • All-Day Comfort: Oval, cooling gel-infused cushions that prevent overheating and pressure build-up
  • THX 7.1 Surround Sound Capable: Provides industry-leading audio realism for in-game immersion by providing accurate spatial audio information beyond standard 7.1 surround sound directional cues
  • Frequency Response 20 Hz – 20 kHz
  • Compatibility: Connects via USB connector; THX Spatial Audio available on Windows 10 64bit only
  • On-Earcup Audio Controls: Includes volume up and down and THX Spatial on or off toggle
7 Poly - Blackwire 5220 USB-A Headset
Our Score:
8.8
Poly (Plantronics + Polycom)
  • Superb Audio Quality: Noise-canceling microphone ensures your voice is heard. Audio automatically switches between wideband for telephony & hi-hi stereo for music. Soundguard Digital protects against sound levels over 118Dba, sudden loud sounds & long-term exposure
  • Connects To: PC/Mac via USB-A, mobile phone/tablet via 3.5 mm. Compatible with Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and other leading collaboration platforms
  • Global Warranty & Wearing Style: 2 year global warranty; over-the-head, on-ear wearing style with two earpieces
  • Enhanced All-Day Comfort & Portability: Ultra-soft leatherette ear cushions wrapped around pillow-soft memory foam provide all-day comfort. A lightweight cushioned metal headband offers durability and a comfortable custom fit
  • Ideal For: Users with extensive PC communication and collaboration use
8 Jabra Evolve 20 UC Wired Headset
Our Score:
8.7
Jabra
  • COMPATIBILITY: The Jabra Evolve 20 Wired Headset works with all leading UC platforms. Plus; With a USB connection; Installation is simple as plugging it in
  • PROFESSIONAL HEADSET: With great sound for calls and music; The Evolve 20 Wired Headset is built to greater productivity with amazing sound quality for calls and music
  • ALL DAY COMFORT: With foam ear cushions and around the ear design; this Jabra headset is built for comfortable all day use. The discreet boom arm easily tucks into the headband when not in use.
  • INCREASE AGENT FOCUS: State of the art; Noise cancelling microphone eliminates background noise to help increase focus. The ear cushions are designed to reduce high frequency sounds; so you and your conversation partner won’t struggle to hear each other
  • EASILY MANAGE CALLS: With this work headset; you can easily access the most used function; Like volume and mute; As well as answer and end calls quickly and easily directly from the control unit
  • NOISE-ISOLATING DESIGN – Evolve2 30 office headset is specifically engineered to deliver portable concentration, cancelling 48% more of the noise around you with memory foam oval ear cushions and pioneering angled ear cup design.
  • MS-OPTIMIZED – This on-ear headset works with all leading Unified Communications platforms and is Microsoft Teams certified with a dedicated Teams button for truly seamless collaboration. Simply unbox, plug in and go. Features a USB-C connection.
  • PROFESSIONAL JABRA HEADSET – Work smarter with the Jabra Evolve2 30 Headset. It’s a telework headset that opens doors to enhanced comfort, seamless collaboration and instant concentration anywhere, whoever you are, and however you like to work.
  • CLEAR, COLLABORATIVE CALLS – Our advanced 2-microphone audio system captures your voice while simultaneously analyzing & reducing noise around you. Plus, the integrated busylight on this pro headset turns on automatically to signal ‘do not disturb’ mode.
  • ALL-DAY COMFORT – We measured hundreds of heads to engineer a work headset that’s lighter and extremely comfortable. The reinforced steel headband and expert design exerts gentle, evenly distributed pressure for all-day comfort.
10 Sennheiser PC 8.2 CHAT
Our Score:
8.0
EPOS Gaming
  • COMMUNICATE CLEARLY- The noise-cancelling function of the microphone lets you communicate clearly with coworkers, friends, and fellow gamers.
  • USB CONNECTOR - The PC 8.2 Headset easily connects to PC and Mac using USB-A making setup quick and easy.
  • UNIDIRECTIONAL MICROPHONE - When you’ve got no need for voice chat, simply rotate the mic arm out your way in any direction.
  • IN-LINE SOUND CARD WITH VOLUME/MUTE CONTROL - Included sound card allows you to effortlessly control and mute your volume.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT STEREO HEADSET - The secure fit headband and soft ear pads give you the all-day comfort you need to focus on your work.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best wired headset with microphone?

A valuable product is determined by many factors (included below). The process of researching the best wired headset with microphone is pretty significant because of these features related to the products. However, rest assured that we are here to support your challenges.

Having a closer look at the following factors would benefit you a lot. These are the most important things among various ones you need to consider:

Frequency Response

The frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that a microphone can detect, usually 20hz-20Khz. Knowing the frequency range is not enough. What you need is the microphone's responsiveness to certain frequencies. Before you choose a microphone, think about the recording you are going to do. A microphone with a higher frequency, such as a dynamic microphone, may be better suited for recording bass, drums, and other musical instruments.

Maximum Sound Pressure Level

This measurement is often expressed as decibels (dBs), and it is the highest volume the microphone can tolerate without distortion.

Type Of Microphone

The energy of sound waves is captured by microphones, which can then convert it into electricity in various ways. You can either use a condenser microphone or dynamic microphone to accomplish this.

Impedance

This is measured in Ohms (symbol O) and refers to the microphone's ability to receive an audio signal or AC current. Mics with a low impedance (600O and lower) retain better audio quality when used on cables that are longer than 16 feet. High impedance signals that other microphone components may be of lower quality can sometimes indicate a low quality signal.

Response Flatness

Although it might seem that flat responses are the best, a treble lift is sometimes an advantage. This applies especially to vocals. This can cause the PA system to become more sensitive to howling. The signal from speakers often gets in the microphone, creating a hissing sound. Many dynamic microphones have a treble lift, which lends itself to many vocals.

Attenuation Switch

Have you ever wondered what those switches at the back of Rode Videomic are for? Attenuation switches are the switches at the back. Attenuation switches on microphones reduce the output of the mic by a specific amount. This is usually between -10dB and -20dB. The microphone will become four to sixteen times more quiet than usual.

Connections

After you have chosen the mic type you prefer, it is time to think about how you will connect it to your system. There are two options: wireless or wired.
Traditional wired microphones transmit sound signals via a cable. They can be a hindrance to performers' movement, particularly during large productions. A wireless microphone is a good option if you need to be mobile. These wireless microphones use radio waves to transmit signals to the receiver.

Polar Pattern/Directionality

Directionality is the way a microphone picks up sounds from its surroundings. One microphone can detect sound in all directions simultaneously. Most other microphones can only pick up one direction at a time. This can be advantageous depending on the circumstances.

FAQs

How Do I Clean My Miniature Microphone Cable From Tape Remains?

Over time, residue from glue and tape can etch the cable making it less able to withstand braking. Organic oil can be used to clean the cable (e.g. Olive oil and lukewarm warm water can be used to clean the cable. Ecotech2 Multidegreaser by Finish Line has been reported to have good results.

What Is A Polar Plot And How Is It Used?

Polar plots, also known as beam patterns, show an angular dependence on the sound pressure measured by the microphone. A polar plot shows how sound pressure levels are affected by different angles of incidence. The typical angle of incidence is a 180-degree arc, with the microphone in the middle. As you move away from the centre, your pressure amplitude will decrease. The frequency dependence of measured sound pressure is not shown in polar plots. They are only obtained at one frequency. Because the pattern of the beam will vary at different frequencies, it is important to specify the measurement frequency with polar data.

Which Levels Can The Microphone Handle?

A microphone's dynamic range is the difference between its lowest and highest levels.
It is not just a function the microphone, but the preamplifier that goes with it. A microphone's dynamic range is directly related to its sensitivities.

Which Microphone Is Recommended For Low Frequency Measurements?

Low frequency can be referred to as a relative term. The standard 1/2" condenser test microphones and the measurement grade microphones have an -3dB point between 1 Hz and 3 Hz. This is enough for most applications. Some specialty microphones can measure down to 0.1 Hz and exceed this limit.

What Is The Noise Floor Of A Microphone?

The cartridge thermal noise specification defines the microphone's noise floor. Important to remember that preamplifier noise can have an impact on the mic and preamplifier combo's noise floor. You can also measure the sound pressure by limiting other components of the measurement chain like power supplies or data acquisition systems.

What Microphone Is Recommended For Determining The Direction Or Noise Source Location Of Sound?

Multiple free-field microphones, placed in predefined patterns and combined with appropriate software allow spatial transformations of complex sound pressure fields to be projected to map the acoustic energy flows. Because of their general value and matching phase specifications, array microphones make a great choice for large-channel count acoustic testing. Because they allow the user to identify specific microphones quickly and easily, Transducer Electronic Data Sheets (TEDS), are highly recommended.

What Should I Do When My Miniature Microphone Gets Soaked In Water Or Sweat?

A microphone is best if it's not in contact with water. However, sweat can be a problem if the environment is professional. The microphone should be shaken to remove any water. It must then dry, perhaps near a heat source such as a radiator. Never use a hairdryer. After they have been sweat-filled, omni microphones should be rinsed in demineralized waters and dried.

Does The Size Of A Microphone Impact Its Frequency And Dynamic Range?

It is important to consider the size and sensitivity of your microphone. Microphones of smaller dimensions and higher sensitivity are more capable of measuring high amplitudes or frequencies. However, microphones with a larger diameter or more sensitive can measure higher frequencies and have lower noise floors.

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About Dan Simmons

Dan Simmons

Dan Simmons is a writer who loves home theater and HiFi audio. As the editor of TheAudioInsights, he has helped countless people enjoy the best possible sound quality in their homes. He is an audiophile who takes great pleasure in helping others find the perfect audio equipment for their needs. When he's not writing or editing, Dan enjoys listening to music and spending time with his family.