Gaming headset buying guide

Comfort and fit

Look for soft ear cushions, an adjustable headband and a weight that does not pull on your neck. If you wear glasses, softer, deeper cushions make a difference.

How it connects

The connection decides which devices it works with.

• USB or a 3.5 mm plug: simple, no battery, works with most PCs and consoles that have the matching port.
• 2.4GHz wireless: a small USB receiver gives a low-delay link that suits gaming.
• Bluetooth: convenient for phones and laptops but has more delay, so it is better for music than for fast games.
• Quad-mode and tri-mode headsets combine several of these in one product. The AULA A600 is a quad-mode headset (2.4GHz, Bluetooth, USB and 3.5 mm), and the A500 is a tri-mode headset with active noise cancelling.

Microphone

A detachable boom microphone keeps your voice clear and can be removed when you listen to music. Check whether it has a mute switch and whether the microphone is on a flexible arm you can position near your mouth.

Sound

Larger drivers usually give fuller bass, but tuning matters more than size. Virtual 7.1 surround can help you place footsteps in shooters, and many players leave it off for music. Pick what suits what you play most.

Battery life

For wireless models, check the rated hours and the charging port. A USB-C port means you can use the same cable as your phone.