If you're serious about gaming on the go, investing in a pair of gaming earbuds can significantly enhance your experience in unexpected ways. These earbuds are ideal for portable consoles like the Steam Deck OLED, Nintendo Switch, and other handheld PCs, providing immersive sound without the bulk of traditional headsets. Whether you're traveling or simply prefer a lighter option, gaming earbuds keep you engaged without weighing you down.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Gaming Earbuds:
Our Top Pick### RazerHammerhead Pro HyperSpeed
1See it at Amazon
### HyperXCloud Mix Buds
0See it at Amazon
### Logitech G FITS
0See it at Amazon
### Asus ROG Cetra
2See it at AmazonSee it at Target
### Logitech G333
2See it at Logitech
### Turtle Beach Battle Buds
0See it at Amazon
### Soundcore VR P10
1See it at Amazon
### JBL Quantum TWS Noise Canceling Gaming Earbuds
1See it at Amazon
### Asus ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova
0See it at AmazonSee it at Newegg
### SonyInZone Buds
1See it at AmazonFor some gamers, earbuds might even replace their traditional gaming headsets altogether. They're not only convenient for handheld gaming but also work seamlessly when connected to your gaming PC, delivering clear audio and crisp communication with your teammates. Plus, their versatility allows them to double up for listening to music, taking calls, or watching movies on your other devices.
Contributions by Georgie Peru, Ural Garrett
Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed
The Best Gaming Earbuds on the Market
Our Top Pick### RazerHammerhead Pro HyperSpeed
1Wireless earbuds designed for gaming, featuring ANC, customizable EQ settings, and a 2.4 GHz dongle for a low-latency connection across various devices. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Drivers: 10mm
- Connectivity: HyperSpeed Wireless Dongle / Bluetooth 5.3
- Audio codec: SBC, AAC
- Earbud battery life: 4 hours
- Case battery life: 16 hours
- IP rating: IPX4
Pros
- Low input lag
- Hybrid active noise cancellation
Cons
- Mediocre battery life
The Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed earbuds are a game-changer for those considering wireless gaming earbuds. They offer both Bluetooth and Hyperspeed connectivity via a wireless dongle, ensuring virtually no input lag, making them a top choice for PC, console, and mobile gamers.
With THX certification, these earbuds immerse you in the game, allowing you to hear every detail, from enemy footsteps to environmental sounds. The 60ms low-latency connection ensures that your game's audio remains in sync. They come with six additional sets of silicone tips for a secure and comfortable fit during long gaming sessions. The sound isolation and ANC are impressive, with a Quick Attention mode to let outside sound in when needed.
While we haven't tested the Pro model ourselves, our review of the standard Razer Hammerhead Hyperspeed earbuds was highly positive.
HyperX Cloud Mix Buds
Best Gaming Earbuds for Battery Life
### HyperXCloud Mix Buds
0Game for extended periods with these earbuds, offering up to 10 hours of battery life and dual connectivity options: a reliable 2.4GHz transmitter or Bluetooth 5.2. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Drivers: 12mm
- Connectivity: 2.4GHz / Bluetooth 5.2
- Audio codec: SBC
- Earbud battery life: Up to 10 hours
- Case battery life: 23 hours
- IP rating: IPX4
Pros
- Low cost
- Up to 10-hour battery life
Cons
- Somewhat awkward fit
The HyperX Cloud Mix Buds are incredibly versatile, offering both Bluetooth and a 2.4GHz transmitter for connectivity. They provide up to 33 hours of total battery life, making them ideal for long gaming sessions. PC gamers will appreciate the immersive experience of DTS Headphone:X's virtual 3D spatial audio.
Like the Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed, these earbuds come with multiple ear tip options for a personalized fit. Their IPX4 rating adds an extra layer of durability. For those looking for gaming earbuds under $100 with excellent battery life and audio, the HyperX Cloud Mix Buds are a fantastic choice. While we haven't reviewed this specific model, our experience with HyperX headphones has been consistently positive.
Logitech G FITS
Personalized Earbud Insulation
### Logitech G FITS
0For superior sound isolation in gaming earbuds, the Logitech G FITS deliver thanks to LIGHTFORM technology that molds to your ears. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Drivers: 10mm
- Connectivity: LIGHTSPEED Transmitter / Bluetooth 5.2
- Audio codec: AAC / SBC
- Earbud battery life: 9 hours
- Case battery life: 10 hours
- IP rating: IPX4
Pros
- Molds to ears for better sound isolation
- Game-focused mode in Bluetooth
Cons
- Expensive
The Logitech G FITS earbuds are perfect for those seeking a versatile and comfortable audio solution without sacrificing performance. While they come at a higher price point, their LIGHTSPEED Wireless technology offers a professional-grade wireless connection that's fast and reliable. This makes the G FITS ideal for serious gamers across multiple devices, including PC, Mac, PS5, and Nintendo Switch.
What sets the Logitech G FITS apart is their personalized fit, achieved through LIGHTFORM technology, which molds to your ears in just 60 seconds. This custom fit enhances comfort and provides excellent passive noise cancellation, allowing you to focus on your game, music, or movie.
With premium sound quality from 10mm drivers and dual beamforming microphones, these earbuds ensure you're heard clearly. The total battery life of up to 15 hours with the charging case means uninterrupted audio enjoyment throughout the day.
Asus ROG Cetra
Best Budget Wireless Gaming Earbuds
### Asus ROG Cetra
2Save with these budget wireless gaming earbuds that still offer features like low latency wireless, ANC, and fast charging. See it at AmazonSee it at Target
Product Specifications
- Drivers: 10mm
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
- Audio codec: SBC & AAC Audio
- Earbud battery life: 5.5 hours (ANC Off)
- Case battery life: 21.5 hours (ANC Off)
- IP rating: IPX4
Pros
- Hybrid active noise cancellation
- Quick charging feature
Cons
- No 2.4GHz dongle
The $99 ROG Cetra earbuds provide low-latency wireless connectivity through Asus’ Armoury Crate app, which offers various personalization features. They also feature active noise cancellation for deep immersion in your games and fast, wireless charging.
For those seeking a bit more performance, Bluetooth multipoint, and other extras, consider the Asus ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova, featured later in this guide.
Logitech G333
Best Budget Wired Gaming Earbuds
### Logitech G333
2Opt for a reliable, budget-friendly wired connection with dedicated media controls, an in-line microphone, and adaptive comfort. See it at Logitech
Product Specifications
- Drivers: Dual dedicated 0.23 in (5.8 mm) + 9.2 mm
- Connectivity: Wired
- Audio codec: N/A
- Earbud battery life: N/A
- Case battery life: N/A
- IP rating: N/A
Pros
- Media controls
- Available in different colors
Cons
- Only wired
Logitech fans looking for an affordable wired option should consider the G333 earbuds. Featuring dual dedicated drivers, they come in three colors: purple/yellow, black/blue, and white/purple. They include an integrated mic and media controls at a budget-friendly $80 price point.
Boom mic on the Turtle Beach Battle Buds 6. Turtle Beach Battle Buds
Best Gaming Earbuds with Detachable Mic
### Turtle Beach Battle Buds
0A unique pair of affordable, wired earbuds with an in-line mic featuring media controls and a multifunctional button, along with an additional detachable mic. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Drivers: 10mm with Neodymium Magnets
- Connectivity: Wired
- Audio codec: N/A
- Earbud battery life: N/A
- Case battery life: N/A
- IP rating: N/A
Pros
- Detachable boom mic and in-line mic
- Interchangeable ear hooks
Cons
- Middling audio
The Turtle Beach Battle Buds are wired gaming earbuds with a 10mm neodymium driver for excellent audio quality. They feature an in-line mic with media controls and a multifunctional button, plus an additional detachable mic. The earbuds come with three earbud tips and three stabilizer wings, all neatly stored in an included bag.
Our review found the Turtle Beach Battle Buds to be solid for gaming, especially considering their low price and the addition of ear hooks and a boom mic.
Soundcore VR P10
Most Versatile Gaming Earbuds
### Soundcore VR P10
1Gaming earbuds with a USB-C pass-through for the Meta Quest and low-latency, multiplatform connectivity via a USB-C dongle. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Drivers: 11mm
- Connectivity: LightningSync️ transmitter / Bluetooth
- Audio codec: LC3 / SBC, AAC
- Earbud battery life: 6 hours
- Case battery life: 24 hours
- IP rating: IPX4
Pros
- Passthrough USB-C port
- Flashy RGB lighting
Cons
- Mic could be better
A standout feature of the under $100 Soundcore VR P10 is the transmitter's passthrough USB-C port, ideal for Meta Quest 2 users. For mobile gaming, the earbuds offer low-latency audio through their 11mm drivers. Expect about 6 hours of battery life, with an additional 24 hours from the included charging case.
JBL Quantum TWS Noise Canceling Gaming Earbuds
Best Mid-Range Gaming Earbuds
### JBL Quantum TWS Noise Canceling Gaming Earbuds
1Featuring adaptive noise canceling, dual connectivity via a 2.4GHz transmitter and Bluetooth 5.2, and six beamforming microphones, the mid-range JBL Quantum TWS have much to offer. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Drivers: 10mm
- Connectivity: 2.4GHz transmitter / Bluetooth 5.2
- Audio codec: AAC and SBC
- Earbud battery life: 8 hours
- Case battery life: 16 hours
- IP rating: IPX4
Pros
- Adaptive noise canceling and ambient aware
- Google Assistant capabilities
Cons
- Poor case battery life
The JBL Quantum TWS gaming earbuds offer dual connectivity with a 2.4GHz transmitter and Bluetooth 5.2. They provide excellent audio quality with adaptive noise canceling and ambient aware capabilities for situational awareness. For communication, the earbuds feature six beamforming microphones with Google Assistant compatibility.
Although we haven't extensively tested these buds, our experience with JBL Quantum headsets has been outstanding.
Asus ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova
Most Comfortable Gaming Earbuds
### Asus ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova
0Comfortable, feature-rich, and great-sounding earbuds perfect for gaming, music, and calls. See it at AmazonSee it at Newegg
Product Specifications
- Drivers: 10mm
- Connectivity: 2.4GHz transmitter / Bluetooth
- Audio codec: SBC, AAC
- Earbud battery life: Up to 11.5 hours
- Case battery life: Up to 46 hours
- IP rating: IPX4
Pros
- Great gaming and music audio
- Excellent connection quality
Cons
- No noise cancellation
Our review of the Asus ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova found them to be the epitome of comfort and versatility. They feature a familiar stem and bud shape with high build quality and three ear tip sizes for the perfect fit. Alongside Bluetooth, they include a reliable USB-C dongle for a low-latency connection.
The SpeedNovas are packed with features, including solid battery life, HD audio support, RGB lighting, and a bone-conducting AI microphone for clear communication. The out-of-the-box EQ is well-balanced and warm, adjustable via the Armoury Crate. However, they lack directional audio, which can be a drawback in certain games.
Sony InZone Buds
Best Gaming Earbuds for PS5
### SonyInZone Buds
1Comfortable and lightweight gaming earbuds with long battery life, great sound performance, and top-notch noise cancellation. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Drivers: 8.4mm
- Connectivity: 2.4GHz transmitter / Bluetooth LE
- Audio codec: LC3
- Earbud battery life: 12 hours
- Case battery life: 12 hours
- IP rating: IPX4
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Feature-rich
Cons
- Bluetooth LE has limited compatibility
When gaming on the PlayStation 5, the bulk of traditional headsets can be cumbersome. That's where Sony's InZone Buds come in. They're lightweight, secure, and comfortable for long sessions, with an impressive 12-hour battery life and additional power from the case.
The InZone Buds are packed with features, including powerful ANC, quality spatial audio, remappable gesture controls, and personalization options. They provide a low-latency connection via a 2.4GHz dongle, while Bluetooth LE offers another connectivity option, though with limited compatibility.
How to Choose the Best Gaming Earbuds
Price is a crucial factor when choosing gaming earbuds. You can find solid budget gaming headsets for as low as $25, or opt for feature-rich high-end gaming headsets for over $200. If you'll use these earbuds daily at home and on the go, consider spending more for better sound and versatility. For occasional use on your handheld gaming PC or smartphone during short commutes, a budget option may suffice.
Connectivity is another key consideration. Wired options offer a more reliable connection, but you'll be tethered to your device. Wireless earbuds with a 2.4GHz dongle provide less latency and a more stable connection than Bluetooth. Ensure the earbuds are compatible with your gaming device; many of our picks aren't compatible with Xbox. For wireless earbuds, consider battery life, with 4 hours being a good minimum for gaming sessions.
Design matters, as you want earbuds that fit comfortably in your ear. Lightweight options with different ear tip sizes are a great starting point. A compact case is essential for portability.
Extra features can enhance your experience, with some gaming earbuds offering features akin to gaming headsets. Noise-canceling helps reduce distractions, while EQ adjustments allow you to tune the sound to your preference. A quality microphone is vital for clear communication with teammates, and RGB lighting adds a subtle gamer aesthetic.
Gaming Earbuds FAQs
What is the difference between gaming earbuds and normal earbuds?
The primary difference is the microphone quality. Gaming earbuds typically have superior microphones, making them ideal for gamers who spend a lot of time communicating with teammates.
Do gaming earbuds work with consoles?
Yes, gaming earbuds are lightweight, comfortable, and compact, making them suitable for all types of gamers. They often work seamlessly with consoles like the best gaming headsets, featuring similar connectivity options. Wireless gaming earbuds often come with a 2.4GHz dongle for low-latency connections on consoles like the PS5 or Xbox Series X/S. Most also support Bluetooth for easy pairing with the Nintendo Switch and best gaming phones. For the most reliable connection, wired earbuds are the best choice.
Can AirPods be used as gaming earbuds?
Many of the best AirPods can serve as gaming earbuds due to their sound quality, comfortable fit, and features like ANC on the AirPods Pro. However, AirPods are not designed specifically for gaming, so latency and connectivity issues may arise. If you're set on using AirPods for gaming, you can connect them via Bluetooth to gaming PCs, gaming phones, and the Nintendo Switch. Connecting to consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S is more complex; check our guide on how to connect AirPods for more information.
When do gaming earbuds go on sale?
Gaming earbuds can be a significant investment, but sales events like Amazon Prime Day in July and Black Friday in November often offer discounts. These are great opportunities to find deals on gaming earbuds and the best gaming headsets in general.
