10 Best Surround Sound Headphones in 2024

Nowadays, audio does not stay in the background; instead, it has become a strong medium to transport you to new worlds, enhance your productivity, and make you feel games way more vividly. Best surround headphones have taken the initiative in this audio revolution. Such headphones can provide a truly immersive listening experience unlike any you have heard.

This article is going to take you through what surround sound headphones are, the top 10 surround sound headphones available in the market, and everything else in between that will help elevate your audio journey.

What is a Surround Sound Headphone？

Surround sound headphones can simulate multichannel speaker systems mostly used in home theater setups. Now, unlike the classic stereo headphones that can only have the sound of two channels, normally left-right, surround-sound ones can use several drivers or modern software algorithms that provide a 3D effect for the nearest music.

Surround-sound headphones are of two types:

• True Surround Sound Headphones: Multidriver headsets have multiple drivers within each earcup. Each driver is usually fitted with a particular position to provide different sound channels, such as front, rear, and center. This creates the effect of a home theater setup with physical speakers all around you for true surround sound.
• Virtual Surround Sound Headphones: The surround sound in these headphones with only two drivers - one in each ear - is simulated through advanced audio processing technologies, such as Dolby Atmos or DTS Headphone, or even proprietary software. This provides an enhanced sense of immersion to, say, the gaming or movie experience by creating the illusion of sounds coming from everywhere around and at significantly different distances.

Top 10 Best Surround Sound Headphones

1. Logitech G Astro A50 X Lightspeed

The Astro A50 X is the best headset with surround sound since it provides improved sound quality and extensive connection. Its HDMI 2.1 switching enables smooth switching between PCs and consoles and supports spatial audio across all platforms.

Although some users may find the included cushions scratchy, the A50 X retains the distinctive style of its predecessor, with an adjustable ear cup and a non-detachable flip-to-mute microphone. Although setup can be challenging, particularly for console users, the 40 mm graphene drivers provide a more balanced and natural soundscape, which makes it ideal for 3D audio from Sony and Dolby Atmos. The A50 X is the best option for gamers with multiple settings due to its excellent sound quality and adaptable base station, even with little alignment problems.

Pros:

• Remarkable connectivity to consoles and PCs
• Supports several spatial audio technologies
• Customizable with a headband and modular ear cushions
• Excellent mic recording quality

Cons:

• Requires HDMI and USB cables for consoles

Price: $341.99

2. SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7

This best headset with surround sound delivers rich, detailed sound without breaking the bank. The headset is powered by SteelSeries' 360-degree Spatial Audio technology and works with all major consoles and devices. It supports Microsoft Spatial Sound and PlayStation 5's Tempest 3D.

Even if it's not quite balanced, the soundscape does a great job of conveying the audio for games, particularly in competitive games like Apex Legends where spatial awareness is essential. With a parametric equalizer that allows for personalized sound, the SteelSeries Sonar software improves the user experience even more. The Arctis Nova 7 is a great option for gamers looking for premium surround sound.

Pros:

• ClearCast Gen 2 noise-cancelling mic
• Luxurious and solid build
• Amazingly long battery life
• Lightweight

Cons:

• No wired connection is available

Price: $199.99

3. Logitech G432 Wired Gaming Headset

The Logitech G432 is an excellent budget-friendly option for gamers seeking a surround-sound experience without breaking the bank. While it may not offer the best audio quality overall, it delivers impressive sound for its price, making it enjoyable for both gaming and music. The headset is comfortable for long sessions, and in games, it provides clear audio with well-balanced frequencies.

Surround sound is only available on PC, and while music playback reveals some bass-heavy tendencies, it's still more than adequate for fans of deeper tones. Compared to similar headsets, the G432 stands out with better spatial sound and a more balanced profile, making it a top pick for budget-conscious gamers.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Plug-and-play functionality
• Amazing surround sound
• Advanced soundscape technology

Cons:

• Microphone quality can be improved

Price: $49.99

4. Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 2 Max Gaming Headset

The most affordable and best wireless surround headphones on the market have excellent platform compatibility and long battery life. Compatible with a number of virtual surround and spatial audio formats, including Windows Sonic, Dolby Atmos, and Sony's Tempest 3D, this PC is compatible with Xbox and PlayStation consoles through a USB RF dongle.

In spite of the large earcups and a tighter fit that might prove to be uncomfortable for some, as well as the room for overall improvement in passive noise suppression, this headset is highly comfortable, especially for people wearing glasses. The microphone is really clear and free from distortion, while the device features platform switching and up to 48 hours of battery life, thus making the Stealth 600 Gen 2 Max one of the very best choices for any gamer who requires just one headset for most needs.

Pros:

• Remarkable battery life
• Clear microphone quality
• Versatile surround sound support across platforms
• Lightweight design

Cons:

• Might feel tight and uncomfortable

Price: $81.80

5. Razer Barracuda X

The Razer Barracuda X is a versatile wireless gaming headset that offers exceptional multi-platform compatibility, making it a fantastic choice for gamers who play across PC, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and Android devices. It's lightweight and comfy for lengthy gaming sessions, with simple plug-and-play capabilities that don't require extensive setup.

The sound quality is good, with well-balanced audio that works well for both music and gaming. It does not, however, support Razer Synapse on PCs. Furthermore, while the headset can be used via a wired connection, Xbox wireless play is not supported by it. Notwithstanding these drawbacks, this is the best 7.1 headphones for cost-conscious gamers looking for a flexible wireless headset because it offers good performance at a reasonable cost.

Pros:

• Spatial audio support for PS5
• Durable build with lightweight comfort
• Remarkable battery life
• Awesome sound quality
• Wireless connection available

Cons:

• No Razer Synapse compatibility

Price: $79

6. HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless

With remarkable comfort and sound quality, the HyperX Cloud Alpha has reclaimed its title as the greatest gaming headset for 2024. Even though it is older, it performs better than more recent models, especially thanks to its two-chamber architecture and 50 mm neodymium drivers, which produce crisp, detailed sounds at all frequencies with strong bass.

The attached detachable microphone is excellent even without a flip-to-mute feature. Because of its lengthy history of popularity, the Cloud Alpha is also very affordable and easily accessible, giving it the best option for gamers looking for a premium wired headset at an affordable price.

Pros:

• Long battery life
• Awesome boom mic performance
• Durable
• Comfortable
• Offers value for money

Cons:

• No flip-to-mute mic

Price: $147

7. Corsair HS55 Wireless

The Dolby Audio 7.1 surround sound and 10-band EQ with iCue software for improved sound quality are features of the best surround headsets. The biggest upgrade is the acoustic performance of the Corsair HS55 Wireless.

Both PC/Mac and PlayStation 5 can be used with this pair of omnidirectional boom microphones. In addition, the gadget features active noise suppression and is simple to pair with a Bluetooth or radio receiver.

Pros:

• Excellent value for money
• Improved sound quality
• Comfortable and lightweight
• Boasts surround sound

Cons:

• Lacks bass

Price: $79.99

8. Razer BlackShark V2 X

For those seeking the best gaming headset for accurate audio, this best headset with surround sound is perfect. The Razer BlackShark V2's 50mm drivers and 7.1 surround sound system bring every game to life and deliver an unparalleled degree of audio fidelity. In war games, the ability to hear every sound in great detail offers players an advantage over other players.

It is unique even with its advanced passive noise cancellation and lightweight design. The requirement for software and an audio/mic splitter cable to enable 7.1 surround sound may be two small disadvantages. Because of this, it's the best eSports headset for players who want to immerse themselves fully in the action and help their team win.

Pros:

• 7.1 surround sound
• Dynamic sound quality
• Active noise cancellation
• Comfortable and stable fit
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Audio/mic splitter cable is needed for full PC functionality

Price: $39.99

9. Audeze Maxwell

Audeze Maxwell is the best option for wireless gaming headsets with excellent planar magnetic drivers. These drivers produce a remarkably clear and well-balanced sound that is rich and powerful, ideal for both music and gaming. The Maxwell defies conventional closed-in profiles by providing a wide, expansive soundstage despite its closed-back shape.

The headset is expensive and bulky, but it can be used for more than simply gaming because of its wireless and Bluetooth connectivity and stylish, non-gaming look. Although the Maxwell is an expensive purchase, its unrivaled audio quality makes it worthwhile.

Pros:

• Amazing battery life
• Fast charging
• Top-notch mic
• Remarkable sound
• Comfortable to use for extended hours

Cons:

• The software can be improved

Price: $296

10. SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5X Wireless

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless provides gamers of the PS5 and Xbox with something special. It changes the game for console EQ customization with its staggering selection of pre-developed audio presets created by developers, eSports competitors, and sound engineers.

It's a fantastic option for fans of the PlayStation and Xbox because of its strong, adaptable design, wireless connectivity, and superb comfort. However, some may find the average mic quality and absence of consoles with adjustable EQ choices to be disadvantageous. All things considered, the Nova 5X Wireless is a great option for gamers since it offers amazing performance, cutting-edge features, and dependable durability at a competitive mid-range pricing.

Pros:

• Amazing EQ support
• Durable and comfortable
• Awesome detailing in the audio
• Extendable microphone

Cons:

• Not all presets are equally useful

Price: $112

FAQs About Best Surround Sound Headphones

1. Is 5.1 or 7.1 Better for Headphones?

If you want a deeper sound, better audio quality, and an immersive experience, 7.1 is a better choice for headphones because it has two extra channels for enhanced audio.

2. Does 7.1 Surround Sound Make a Difference for Headphones?

Yes, a good 7.1 headset offers more accurate positional audio, which helps gamers pinpoint the location of in-game sounds like gunfire, footsteps, and explosions.

3. What is a Better - Stereo or Surround Sound Headset?

If you're into competitive gaming, a surround sound headset is a good pick. However, stereo headsets are also fine if you're on a budget.

Conclusion

With so many amazing surround sound headphones to choose from, finding the perfect pair is an exciting adventure. But don't worry! Whether you're a gamer, a movie buff, or simply someone who prefers awesome audio, we have covered the best surround headphones for everyone out there. So, choose the one that caters to your requirements the best and redefine your listening experience.