The 12 best computer headsets of 2026

When it comes to purchasing computer headphones with a built-in microphone, it may seem like a simple task at first. However, one quickly realizes that the options available are vast and diverse, varying not only in price, but also in design, aesthetics, and features. In this article, we will provide an overview of the top 12 computer headsets of 2026.

How to choose headphones for a computer with a microphone

1. Headphone Types. Personal computer headphones are typically available in two main styles: full-size or over-ear headphones, which are intended for stationary use and provide long-term comfort, and compact models such as in-ear or in-canal headphones, as well as one-ear headsets, which are perfect for situations where you need to stay aware of your surroundings while communicating.
2. Headband Design. The standard headband design is the vertical earcup, but there are also alternatives such as the occipital earcup or ear mount.
3. There are different types of microphones available – some are attached to wires and fixed in the body, while others are mounted on a movable and flexible stem. In most cases, headphones with a good microphone are preferred for gaming, socializing, or streaming. Among these options, the variant with a flexible stem is often regarded as the most comfortable.
4. When connecting headphones to a laptop or PC, there are two options: wired or wireless. Generally, wired headphones offer better sound quality, no delays, and they tend to be lighter since they don’t require a battery. However, they come with a cable, which can be somewhat inconvenient. The wired connection can be established through either a USB or a 3.5mm audio jack.
5. On the other hand, wireless headphones provide the freedom of being untethered from a cable, which can be very convenient in certain situations. There are two main types of wireless connections: radio and Bluetooth. The radio connection often requires a USB receiver, particularly in gamer models. It is believed that the radio channel is more stable and eliminates delays, but these claims lack concrete evidence.

Compact computer headphones

Unveiling a series of compact headphone models with built-in microphones that garner attention for their versatility, these headphones are ideal for use with both PCs and smartphones. Moreover, they are sure to be favored by individuals who prefer sleeker headphone designs over bulkier options.

HyperX Cloud Earbuds

A popular brand offers a gaming headset featuring an in-ear design and a 1.2-meter cable with an L-shaped 3.5mm plug for convenient connection. The rubberized cord is tangle-free, ensuring a comfortable user experience. This device has a standard frequency range of 20 to 20000 Hz, a resistance of 65 Ohm, and a sensitivity of 116 dB. Additionally, the set comes with a durable storage case and interchangeable ear cushions. Notably, the headset includes a built-in microphone positioned on the cable.

• The cable remains untangled;
• enjoyable sound;
• excellent voice transmission quality;
• lightweight (weighs only 19 grams).
• The unique design of the ear cushions may not be comfortable for everyone.

ASUS ROG Cetra

These headphones are specifically designed for gaming and are compatible with any device that has a USB-C connector. Made by the vacuum brand, they weigh 26 grams and come with a convenient 125 cm cord that has volume control and a microphone.

Thanks to its noise-canceling feature, the microphone ensures clear audio even in noisy environments. Additionally, these headphones also have active noise reduction for an enhanced listening experience.

The headset has a frequency range of 20 – 40000 Hz and an impedance of 16 ohms. It comes with a case and replaceable ear cushions, as well as ear mounts. Additionally, the headset features a proprietary utility for precise sound adjustment and a backlight.

• Includes a case
• Delivers impressive sound quality
• Equipped with a high-quality microphone
• Easy to use
• Features a backlight
• Uses a less common plug for connection
• The headphone’s noise modulator may not always function correctly

One-way headset

A one-sided headset is an excellent choice for professional use. These devices often come equipped with a high-quality microphone, making negotiations more comfortable.

Plantronics RIG 100HX.

This is a large gaming headset that features an earpiece on one side. It boasts a unique design that promotes excellent ventilation, ensuring maximum comfort even during long gaming sessions. The earcup is detachable, making it convenient for travel. While the microphone is not removable, it does have a flexible arm, allowing for easy positioning.

The structure of the earpiece is open, which eliminates the "air cushion" effect but detrimentally affects the reduction of external noise. It connects via a 3.5 jack and features a volume control and microphone on the cable. The sound characteristics are standard, with a frequency range of 20 to 20000 Hz, impedance of 32 ohms, and sensitivity of 111 dB. Weighing only 110 grams, this model is relatively lightweight for its class.

• Excellent ergonomics
• Lightweight design
• Convenient controls
• Good voice transmission
• The headphones are fairly quiet
• Lack of noise isolation

Sennheiser PC 2 CHAT

These professional headphones are perfect for use in an office setting. With a weight of only 55 grams, they are incredibly lightweight. The headphones come with a two-meter cable that has two 3.5mm connections. Additionally, they feature a noise-canceling microphone that can be easily adjusted. The headphones have an impressive frequency range of 42 to 17000 Hz, an impedance of 32 ohms, and a sensitivity of 95 dB.

• Excellent voice and audio quality;
• Comfortable and secure fit;
• Long-lasting and durable cable.
• The cord is excessively thin.

Budget wired headsets for PC

Next on the list are the top-rated PC headsets that boast a wired connection and an affordable price tag. These headsets are ideal for budget-conscious individuals who are in search of a cost-effective yet reliable option.

Logitech 960 USB Headset

A renowned brand offers a headpiece with a pleasant headband, weighing a mere 120 grams and featuring a generous 2.4-meter cable with a USB connection. The microphone is conveniently perched atop a flexible stand and boasts an impressive noise-canceling capability. Additionally, this headset includes a remote control equipped with volume and microphone controls. Its frequency range spans from 100 to 10000 Hz, while its sensitivity reaches an astonishing 111 dB.

• The sound quality is great.
• The microphone has noise-canceling capabilities.
• The cable is long.
• The remote control is convenient.
• Unfortunately, the construction feels rather fragile.

CROWN MICRO CMGH-21

These headphones are big and full-sized. The microphone can be moved, but the stem is not bendable. The headphones have a comfortable headband and ear cushions, and there is a remote control on the 3.2-meter cord. The headset is backlit and connects via USB. It has a standard frequency range of 20 – 20000 Hz and a resistance of 32 Ohms. The weight of the headphones is 264 grams.

One special feature of this model is that it supports virtual surround sound 7.1, which is impressive considering its affordable price.

• excellent match;
• extended cable;
• offers an immersive audio experience;
• decent voice quality.
• the sound lacks dynamics and emotion;
• appears to be of low quality;
• the headphones tend to get warm.

Bloody G520S.

Here is a budget-friendly gaming headset with excellent positioning. It boasts spacious ear cups, plush cushions, and an ergonomic headband that ensures extended comfort. Even after long hours of use, it won’t exert pressure on your head. Despite its affordable price, this device doesn’t compromise on quality. It features a built-in noise-canceling microphone and a dazzling circular backlight that offers seven vibrant colors.

A durable 2-meter cable is utilized for connection in the US B construction. The range of frequencies available spans from 20 to 20000 Hz, while the impedance measures at 16 ohms, and the sensitivity reaches up to 105 dB. Conveniently placed on the right earpiece, the volume control ensures easy access and adjustment.

• Sturdy build quality;
• Superb sound quality;
• Effective noise-canceling microphone;
• Comfortable fit;
• Impressive volume capabilities.
• No option for remote control.

Best wired headset for computer

Here is a compilation of the top-notch PC headphones that will catch the attention of individuals seeking nothing but the most superior product available in the industry.

MSI DS502 GAMING HEADSET

This gaming model, manufactured by one of the top gaming device makers, features headphones with a headband that is suspended and self-adjusts to fit the user’s head. The device is a closed type, providing excellent sound insulation, and it also has backlit cups.

The headphones have an intelligent vibration feature that enhances bass (which can be disabled), a microphone that can be adjusted, and support for 7.1 virtual surround sound. This particular model includes a remote control and comes with software for precise tuning. The cable is two meters long and connects via USB. The frequency range is 20-20000 Hz, the impedance is 32 ohms, and the sensitivity level is 105 dB. The weight of the headphones is 405 grams.

• They provide a high volume level.
• The sound quality in games and movies is excellent.
• The voice transmission is clear.
• The design of the headphones is well-thought-out and ergonomic.
• There is an option to customize the sound to your liking.
• The sound quality when listening to music is not the best.
• The backlight cannot be turned off.

Razer Kraken Tournament Edition

This is a quite pricey gaming headset for individuals in search of high-quality sound and exceptional features. Despite its cost, the device provides excellent value for money. The headset boasts an intelligently designed headband that incorporates grooves specifically designed to accommodate the arms of eyeglasses. Furthermore, the ear cushions are filled with innovative cooling gel that adapts to the user’s body temperature, ensuring maximum comfort during prolonged gaming sessions. The material of the ear cushions effectively absorbs and dissipates body heat, preventing any discomfort caused by overheating. Another notable feature of this headset is its retractable microphone, which conveniently slides out of the case and can be easily adjusted to the desired position. The headset offers versatile connectivity options, including both 3.5mm and USB connections. Additionally, a USB sound card is provided, equipped with a multitude of customizable settings to enhance the audio experience.

You have the ability to modify the bass, voice to audio balance, and toggle the 7.1 surround sound feature on or off. The included cable measures 1.3 meters and is reinforced with a durable coating. Additionally, there is a two-meter extension cord provided. The frequency range of the headphones is 12 – 28000 Hz, with a sensitivity level of 109 dB and an impedance of 32 ohms. The weight of the headset is 322 grams. Available in black and green color options. To further customize your experience, you have the option to download and utilize the proprietary software.

• Noteworthy attributes include exceptional ergonomics and design.
• Audio quality is outstanding.
• The inclusion of a convenient sound card.
• Multiple connectivity options are available.
• Proprietary software is provided for customization purposes.
• The complexity of the software may prove challenging for some users.

HyperX Cloud II

One of the most sought-after gaming headsets from HyperX is characterized by its striking design. Featuring memory foam ear cushions wrapped in premium leatherette, this model provides exceptional comfort. Despite its noticeable pressure on the user’s head, the weight distribution ensures a comfortable gaming experience even during prolonged sessions. The durable aluminum headband guarantees longevity. Moreover, the detachable microphone features noise-canceling technology and a flexible stem.

Connectivity is achieved through a 1-meter cable made of fabric braided material, and an included 2-meter extension cord is also provided. The plug is of size 3.5 mm. Additionally, there is a USB sound card, replaceable ear cushions, an airplane adapter, and a storage case included in the package. The USB card allows for individual sound customization for both the microphone and headphones, and it also features the ability to enable or disable virtual volume. With a frequency range of 15 to 25000 Hz, an impedance of 60 ohms, and a sensitivity of 98 dB, the headphones deliver excellent audio quality. Furthermore, they weigh only 350 grams.

• The headphones exhibit exceptional ergonomics and design.
• A wide array of accessories is included.
• The sound produced is of high quality.
• The detachable microphone is of excellent quality.
• The virtual sound experience is available.
• Due to the use of a standard 4-pin connector, the microphone may not be compatible with all devices.
• There is no dedicated software provided for customization purposes.

Bluetooth headphones with a microphone

For those who have an aversion to cords, we present the top models of wireless computer headphones.

ASUS STRIX Fusion Wireless

The headset comes with a unique design and has a wireless connection through a USB receiver. It has the capability to operate within a range of 20 meters and can last for 15 hours on a single charge.

Featuring touch-sensitive controls directly on the earcups, this headset offers an ergonomic and sealed design. This ensures a perfect fit and delivers an immersive and lifelike sound experience.

The microphone can be moved and will automatically mute when lowered. The device features interchangeable ear cushions and also includes customization software. The frequency range is 20 – 20000 Hz with a resistance of 32 Ohm. The model’s body is foldable and it weighs 395 grams.

• Impressive battery life;
• Compact receiver design;
• Convenient touch controls;
• Folding case for easy storage;
• Comes with leather and fabric ear cushions that provide excellent sound insulation.
• Very snug fit;
• Some signal transmission delays may occur;
• Slightly smaller range than advertised.

SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless

This wireless device is a gaming model, but can be used in any situation. It features patented low-latency audio transmission and is compatible with all platforms, including PCs, gaming consoles, and smartphones. The detachable microphone is noise-canceling and certified for Discord and other communication programs. The audio quality is guaranteed by the same award-winning radiators used in previous models from the company, which are renowned for their high-quality sound reproduction.

The headset has a reinforced steel headband, ensuring long-lasting durability. It comes with three different cables, allowing for connections via 3.5mm, USB-A to microUSB, and USB-C. The wireless transmitter has a sleek, flat design with a USB-C connector, making it convenient for use with smartphones and portable consoles. It can also be connected to PCs and consoles using an adapter cable.

The headphones themselves have built-in controls for adjusting the sound and turning the microphone on/off. They have a frequency range of 20-20000 Hz, an impedance of 32 ohms, and a sensitivity of 98 dB. The headset also comes with proprietary software for fine-tuning. It weighs 260 grams and provides up to 20 hours of autonomous use.

• Compatibility across different platforms
• Both wired and wireless connection options
• Sturdy construction
• Ergonomic design
• High-quality sound
• Clear voice transmission
• Long battery life