With advanced VR experiences becoming increasingly common, headphones with the technical capabilities to match the stunning visuals are a must. But with countless options marketed as "VR ready", identifying the headphones that will truly immerse you without distraction remains a challenge.
Whether you seek thunderous audio, a keen awareness of spatial sound, or marathon comfort for extended sessions, the ideal headphones for VR gaming call for careful consideration of various factors like 3D sound support, construction, and sound isolation. This is why we have compiled a list of some of the best VR-compatible headphones out there for your convenience. Check them out below!
Updated on April 30, 2024, by Sai Vsr: In this recent update, we have upgraded this list with the PlayStation Pulse Elite, a headset that works great with the PlayStation VR. Do give it a peek below!
- via PlayStation
PlayStation Pulse Elite Wireless Headset
Best For PSVR See at Amazon Logitech G PRO For Meta Quest
Best For Meta Quest $82 at WalmartSteelSeries Arctis 7P Wireless
Best SteelSeries Headphones $170 at WalmartLogitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed
Best Logitech Headphones $249 at WalmartBose QuietComfort 45 Bluetooth Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Best Bose Headphones $329 at Walmart- See More
Sennheiser HD 820
Best High-End $2000 at Best BuyAudio-Technica ATH-WP900
Best Mid-Range $639 at WalmartJBL Live 660NC
Best Budget $100 at Best Buy
Best Headphones For VR
Best For PSVRPlayStation Pulse Elite Wireless Headset
For that unbeatable compatibility.
The PlayStation Pulse Elite wireless headset delivers immersive, lifelike audio through planar magnetic drivers and low-latency PlayStation Link technology, with a comfortable design, retractable mic, and simultaneous Bluetooth connectivity.
Pros & Cons- Planar magnetic drivers deliver detailed, immersive audio.
- Comfortable design for long gaming sessions.
- AI-enhanced noise cancellation on retractable microphone.
- Non-magnetic charging dock can be finicky.
If you're looking for a headset to go along with your PSVR, then the Pulse Elite should be on your radar. Under the hood, we have custom-designed planar magnetic drivers, which are great for giving you consistent clarity and detail across the frequency spectrum. It also makes use of the PlayStation Link technology to give you low-latency, lossless audio when you're plugged in.
You can also hook up the headset to your phone if you wanna take any calls or even listen to some music in the background without worrying too much about interrupting your session. This only gets better if you throw in the fact that there's an AI-enhanced noise-canceling microphone that intelligently filters out background noise.
In case you were wondering about the comfort factor, there are some plush ear cushions and padded headbands to give you a snug and comfortable fit. The audio quality is impressive overall as well, but we did feel like the bass response on this could have been a little better, especially if you're comparing it to other headsets in the same price segment.
Best For Meta QuestLogitech G PRO For Meta Quest
Made for Meta.
Specifically designed for immersive VR gaming on Meta Quest 2/3, the Logitech G PRO Headset features over-ear noise isolation, custom cabling, PRO-G 50mm drivers tuned for gaming audio precision, durable yet comfortable construction, and compatibility with PCs and consoles.
Pros & Cons- PRO-G drivers tuned for precise positional VR audio.
- Comfortable memory foam pads for long gaming sessions.
- Closed back noise isolating design for deep immersion.
Ah, the Logitech G Pro. First off, the audio quality on this is seriously top-notch, especially considering the under $100 price point. With next-generation 7.1 surround sound and 50 mm PRO-G drivers, you get super immersive sound staging that makes your audio come alive. Not to mention the clear, precise sound imaging and deep bass, which take it to another level. On the communication front, we have a 6 mm PRO mic, so your voice comes through super loud and clear.
Comfort-wise, Logitech pretty much nailed it. The memory foam leatherette earpads and lightweight steel-reinforced headband mean you can game for hours without strain. It's made to reduce fatigue, making it a great pick for marathon sessions. Another big plus is the headset's compatibility. Specifically designed as the official over-ear audio solution for the Oculus Quest 2, it means that this baby has been built keeping VR in mind. But don't worry, the headset still works with any device that has a 3.5 mm audio jack.
Best SteelSeries HeadphonesSteelSeries Arctis 7P Wireless
Hear everything
Brand SteelSeries Battery Life 38 Hours Noise Cancellation Yes Microphones ClearCast Gen 2 - Fully Retractable Boom Charging type USB-C fast chargingThe SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Wireless gaming headset delivers immersive 360° spatial audio, simultaneous wireless connections, and a customizable parametric EQ.
Pros & Cons- Fully customizable parametric EQ.
- Extremely long 38-hour battery life.
- Simultaneous 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Non-replaceable earpads.
With the Arctis Nova 7P Wireless, SteelSeries delivers a versatile premium headset that's a sound-shaping powerhouse ideal for dedicated multi-platform gamers. Right off the bat, the Nova Acoustic System impresses with its strikingly detailed and clear 40mm drivers. In-game explosions rumble with an emphasized level of bass while gunshots snap, thanks to the drivers' full-bodied sound.
However, the real magic lies in the headset's 360° spatial audio, thanks to which you get a fully enveloping surround soundscape generates pinpoint audio cues to locate in-game opponents simply by sound. The headphones also take it a step further by providing a parametric EQ that helps unlock total audio customization at a surgical level, amplifying subtle but critical in-game noises for a competitive edge.
You can also mix your VR game and chat audio from different source, courtesy of the simultaneous 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, the long-lasting 38-hour battery life and USB-C quick charging ensure nonstop gaming. An AI-powered retractable microphone eliminates ambient noise for voice chat clarity. Features like these make the Nova 7P truly one of the best audio solutions that SteelSeries has put out.
Best Logitech HeadphonesLogitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed
Reality Unbound
Microphone Unidirectional cardioid Compatibility PC, PS5, PS4, Bluetooth-enabled devices What's Included Headset, memory foam leatherette ear pads and spares, USB-A Lightspeed adapter with 3.5mm port, detachable mic with foam windscreen, USB-A to USB-C cable, 3.5mm cable, storage bag, user documentation. Brand Logitech G Surround Sound NoEquipped with pro-grade graphene drivers and lag-free Lightspeed wireless, the Logitech Pro X 2 Lightspeed headset provides multi-dimensional audio ideal for VR gaming.
Pros & Cons- Strikingly realistic spatial audio.
- Durable and comfortable design.
- Lightspeed wireless connection eliminates potential lag.
- Battery life capped at 12 hours.
- Audio bleeds at high volumes.
The Logitech Pro X 2 Lightspeed really enhances the VR experience thanks to its pro-grade hardware. It packs custom 50mm graphene drivers that deliver expansive, cinematic sound with crystal clear imaging. The headset connects wirelessly via Logitech's Lightspeed tech, ensuring rock-solid low latency so motion and audio stay perfectly synced.
Even after hours of wear, the Pro X 2 Lightspeed stays comfortable thanks to its lightweight construction and plush memory foam ear pads. The pads are adjustable too, so you can customize the fit to your tastes. With up to 12 hours of battery life, Logitech has made sure that can keep playing without power constrictions getting in the way.
The boom mic captures voice clearly and filters out ambient noise. For added personalization, you can also fine-tune the sound profile to best suit your gameplay needs.
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Posts Best Bose HeadphonesBose QuietComfort 45 Bluetooth Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Audio Redefined
With acclaimed noise cancelling, crisp audio, and 24+ hour battery life, the Bose QuietComfort 45 wireless over-ear headphones deliver superior sound and comfort for all-day wear.
Pros & Cons- Comfortable memory foam earpads and headband for all-day wear
- Balanced and clear audio reproduction across frequencies.
- 24+ hour battery life per charge.
- Sound quality not as dynamic as some competitors.
- No multipoint Bluetooth pairing.
When it comes to audio, Bose is a masterclass in redefining expectations. Known for their exquisite noise-cancelation abilities, the QuietComfort 45 is just another addition to a long line of premium audio solutions. The headphones deliver clear and balanced audio, so you can analyze sound cues and make split-second decisions.
Marathon comfort? The lightweight yet durable build and plush materials keep you comfortable even during lengthy VR sessions. You can also further customize the audio experience via the adjustable EQ in the Bose app, tuning the sound profile to match your preferences.
With up to 22 hours of battery life, Bluetooth connectivity, and a carrying case, the QuietComfort 45 headphones are ready to go anywhere. But where the QuietComfort 45 really shines is in its class-leading noise cancelation. Not only this, you can also stay aware of your actual surroundings when needed with Aware Mode allowing real-world noises through. If you are someone who wants to engage in VR gaming and also have uncompromised audio immersion, the QuietComfort 45 headphones belong in your gear arsenal.
Best High-EndSennheiser HD 820
For The Elite
The Sennheiser HD 820 closed-back headphones deliver impeccably detailed, natural sound with deep bass thanks to innovative glass transducer technology. With luxurious build quality and comfort, these high-end audiophile headphones reproduce music with stunning realism.
Pros & Cons- Deep, powerful bass response from glass transducer drivers.
- Natural soundstage for closed-back headphones.
- Plush earpads and headband provide exceptional comfort.
- Sound leakage at high volumes due to closed-back design.
- Requires amping to reach full potential.
Sennheiser's ingenious glass transducer covers in the HD 820s deliver open-backed expansiveness rare for closed-back headphones. By reflecting rear soundwaves back onto the drivers, the specialized Gorilla Glass creates a staggeringly realistic soundstage that makes even your VR worlds feel tangible.
Powered by Sennheiser's celebrated ring radiator drivers and aluminum voice coils, the HD 820s reveal micro-nuances across a marathon 6Hz-48kHz frequency range. Thanks to these drivers, every single atmospheric detail and sound effect comes through with crysal clarity that is absolutely going to blow your mind. It also helps that the bass lacks any unnecessary bloat, and the crimson highs sparkle but never hiss.
Make no mistake, the exorbitant price tag on this headset does limit accessibility for the average gamer. But for passionate audiophiles and VR trailblazers craving best-in-class clarity down to the finest textures, the HD 820 delivers some ultra-premium acoustic engineering.
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Posts Best Mid-RangeAudio-Technica ATH-WP900
Feel The Audio
Handcrafted in Japan, the ATH-WP900 over-ear headphones deliver luxurious comfort and hi-fi sound with 53mm drivers and wood composite housings. Enjoy warm, natural audio with deep bass, clear mids and smooth treble ideal for long listening sessions.
Pros & Cons- Warm, natural sound from 53mm drivers.
- Deep bass response and smooth treble.
- Handcrafted Japanese design with premium materials.
- Soundstage could be more spacious.
- Bulky design less suited for portability.
The Audio-Technica ATH-WP900s are premium wired headphones that pair excellently with high-end VR systems. Their sizable 53mm drivers work in tandem with carbon composite housings to deliver strikingly vivid, multidimensional audio across an impressive 5Hz-45kHz frequency range.
Sounds emanate with remarkable realism to make VR environments feel true-to-life. Built with extended VR sessions in mind, the memory foam earpads provide notable noise isolation and comfort during wear. They help minimize external distractions, enabling you to focus fully on virtual realms. With top-notch audio performance stemming from quality materials to flexible cabling options, the ATH-WP900s empower discerning users to achieve excellent fidelity from VR experiences.
For serious audiophiles seeking closed-back wired headphones that unlock VR's full auditory potential without spending too much money, the ATH-WP900s are a strong choice at a reasonable price point.
Best BudgetJBL Live 660NC
Sensibly Priced
With excellent active noise cancellation, voice assistant support, and up to 50 hours of battery life, the JBL Live 660NC over-ear headphones deliver powerful wireless sound and smart features for some brilliant listening on the go.
Pros & Cons- Long battery life up to 50 hours per charge.
- Support for voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant.
- Solid wireless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0.
- Tight clamping force on head may cause discomfort.
- Sound quality lacks a slight amount of depth.
The wallet-friendly JBL Live 660NC headphones bring quality wireless audio to casual VR users without breaking the bank. JBL's lively 40mm drivers deliver the brand's signature vibrant sound complete with thumping bass that adds impactful punch to action-packed VR gameplay. The active noise cancelation may not be best-in-class, but it capably blocks out real-world distractions for basic immersion in virtual realms. When you need to hear your surroundings, Ambient Aware mode allows external sounds to filter through.
With a stellar 40 hours of battery life per charge, you can enjoy marathon VR sessions without worrying about the Live 660NC conking out. And the speedy quick charging feature lets you rapidly top up the battery when running low for minimal downtime. The folding design enables easy portability by slipping neatly into bags, while the rotating earcups adapt to your head shape for comfortable long-term wear.
While the more serious gamers may end up wanting more refinement and headphone holography from their VR cans, the JBL Live 660NC still provide very respectable wireless sound and noise cancelation given their budget-friendly price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
What style of headphones work best for long VR sessions?
For extended VR gaming sessions, over-ear closed-back headphones tend to be the ideal choice. Their around-ear design with closed cups provides excellent noise isolation capabilities to block out external distractions, allowing you to remain fully immersed in the virtual environment.
Unlike on-ear options that can cause pressure points, over-ear models disperse weight evenly for enhanced comfort during long periods of wear. Many quality over-ear headphones designed for marathon VR gaming will incorporate memory foam padding on the headband and ear cups to further prevent fatigue or irritation throughout multi-hour playthroughs.
Should active noise cancelation be a priority for VR immersion?
Most definitely! Quality ANC utilizes microphones to monitor environmental sounds and generate opposite anti-noise signals to cancel them out. This effectively cocoons you in silence, enabling fuller focus on VR audio. However, effective ANC requires battery power, so wireless headphones with ANC activated may have reduced battery life per charge.
Also, some gamers prefer allowing in some external sound to maintain situational alertness. So make sure that you weigh the pros of noise cancelation for undisturbed audio against potential shorter runtimes and decreased real-world awareness.
How do I optimize headphone audio for VR games?
Many quality headphones come with companion app support, enabling you to customize the audio profile for optimal VR gaming. Use these apps to dial in EQ settings tailored specifically for virtual reality titles. Try boosting midrange frequencies to make subtle audio details more audible, while adding punchy bass impact for gunshots and explosions without muddying the mix.
Maximize any virtual surround sound or 3D audio options to amplify spatial imaging and audio positioning within the VR environment. For multiplayer games, tweak the microphone settings to isolate and enhance the clarity of your voice communications. Following these few simple tips should bump up your in-game audio by a considerable amount.
Next: Meta Quest 3 Vs. Meta Quest 2: Which Is Better?
