These Gaming Headsets Will Detect Enemies First in Counter-Strike 2

These Gaming Headsets Will Detect Enemies First in Counter-Strike 2

Counter-Strike is one of the most accessible FPS titles, with straightforward game mechanics. Unsurprisingly, its player base remains massive even after a somewhat bumpy transition to a sequel. The game is ultra-popular partly because it demands reasonable system requirements and runs smoothly on budget PC builds. However, players often struggle to find the best gaming headset for Counter-Strike 2. These devices commonly use surround sound formats that conflict with the game's audio engine.

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Pro gamers look for gaming headsets that process sounds instantly and provide accurate positional audio. In Counter-Strike 2, some headsets can help struggling gamers by revealing approaching enemies before opponents react. Players entering the competitive gaming world should also ensure that any potential purchase has a reliable microphone. Wireless and wired headsets both have advantages, but stable connectivity is the priority. Finally, any successful Counter-Strike 2 gamer needs an esports-tested peripheral that can withstand the endless practice hours required.

Game Rant's Best Gaming Headsets for Counter-Strike 2

Best Overall Gaming Headset for Counter-Strike 2

AceZone A-Spire Gaming Headset

TheAceZone A-Spire is a gaming headset designed with esports competitors in mind. Benefiting from a combination of active and passive noise cancellation, gamers can focus on performing their best. The A-Spire enhances footsteps in FPS titles while reducing sounds that can mask vital audio cues. Ensuring that communication with teammates remains reliable, the A-Spire microphone drowns out all outside noise with noise suppression algorithms. This AceZone headset can connect to sources wireless through Bluetooth, an analog audio cable, or USB-C.

Microphone Noise cancellingCompatibility PC, Xbox, PS5, MobileBrand AceZoneNoise Cancellation Active, PassiveWeight 270 gBattery Life 35 hoursFrequency Response 20 Hz- 20,000 HzDriver 40 mm Pros

• Integrates with Counter-Strike 2's audio engine
• Lightweight and portable design with carrying case
• Simple setup process with mobile app
• Reliable microphone performance
• Excellent passive and active noise cancellation

Cons

• Ordinary looking design
• Only wireless over higher-latency Bluetooth

$320 at Amazon

While professional Counter-Strike 2 players use various headsets when practicing, AceZone makes models used at major competitions. The A-Spire excels at active and noise cancellation, keeping gamers focused on the action in hectic arenas. Also, this headset appeals to buyers desperate for any edge in Counter-Strike 2 since it knows precisely what sound effects to amplify.

Although it offers Bluetooth connectivity, most competitive gamers will use the A-Spire over a wired USB-C cable. The setup process is convenient for these players, who regularly travel and cannot install software on every PC. AceZone doesn't offer a Windows program but relies on an intuitive mobile app. All Counter-Strike 2 competitors will want to use the app and activate an EQ profile made specifically for the game. Unlike most spatial audio headsets, the A-Spire recognizes footsteps or grenade drops in the distance from the game's software coding. This virtually eliminates any chance of lag between when events happen on screen and when they are heard.

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Beyond sounding amazing in anything from FPS titles to music, the A-Spire is also remarkably lightweight and comfortable. At only 270 grams with an included carrying case, it folds up to become even more portable. Its design is more about function than flair, resembling a pair of studio headphones rather than a gaming headset. However, its attached microphone makes it more practical for gaming, and the mic boasts outstanding recording quality. Despite looking fragile, once positioned correctly, the mic will eliminate everything in a chaotic environment except a player's voice.

The A-Spire is rather pricey for a mainly wired headset, but features like active noise cancellation help soften the blow. If a Counter-Strike 2 gamer shares an apartment with annoying roommates, keeping attention on monitors with the headset forming tight seals on ears is much easier. Without neutralizing sound waves, the A-Spire still impresses with passive noise cancellation, thanks to plush but tight-fitting ear cushions.

Game Rant's review of the AceZone A-spire found that gamers shouldn't dismiss the headset because of its unassuming appearance. The headset instantly processes seemingly unimportant sounds that only experienced Counter-Strike 2 players recognize, giving them a tactical advantage over their rivals.

Best Wireless Gaming Headset for Counter-Strike 2

Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed

The Logitech Pro X 2 Lightspeed is the highly anticipated follow-up to the company's flagship Logitech G Pro X wireless headset. The new Logitech G Pro X 2 features 50 mm Graphene drivers which provide a rich and well-balanced sound. Rotating memory foam earpads are both comfortable and also form a tight seal for excellent noise isolation. This headset has a 50-hour battery life and connects wirelessly to PCs and PlayStation consoles, or to the Nintendo Switch and mobile devices with Bluetooth.

Microphone Detachable, CardioidCompatibility PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo SwitchBrand LogitechNoise Cancellation PassiveWeight 345 gramsBattery Life 50 hoursSurround Sound DTS Headphone X 2.0 Pros

• Adaptive fit with plush ear cushions
• Graphene drivers reduce distortion
• Bass-heavy default sound suits action-packed games
• Excellent battery life

Cons

• Finding right spatial audio settings requires tweaking
• Voices sound somewhat distorted with mic

$249 at Amazon$250 at Walmart$250 at Best Buy$250 at Target$250 at Newegg

As some of the most commonly used headsets by esports pros, the Logitech G Pro X lineup continues to evolve. The latest version boasts adaptive comfort with swiveling earcups and Graphene drivers for a purer sound. Stellar build quality with metal reinforcing its construction is another reason why the most dedicated Counter-Strike 2 players are loyal to the Pro X 2 Lightspeed.

Memory foam is heavily used on the Pro X 2 Lightspeed, giving the 345-gram wireless headset an even more bulky appearance. Yet, gamers feel minimal pressure when on their heads thanks to the now more flexible earcups. The Pro X 2 Lightspeed is sophisticated with some metal trim on its exterior, but gamers with white keyboards will find the lighter-colored version of the headset makes more of a statement. Logitech only includes a carrying bag rather than a case, but the microphone does detach to enhance its portability.

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Wireless interference is a major concern in crowded tournament areas. Consequently, Logitech extensively tested its Lightspeed RF protocol under these conditions to reduce any disastrous audio drops. The headset displays a remarkable range, and gamers now have Bluetooth as an option to keep them paired with mobile phones. Battery life has also seen a significant jump over its predecessor and stands at around 50 hours. If all fails, the Pro X 2 Lightspeed functions as a wired headset without many of its useful software enhancements.

The Pro X 2 Lightspeed's 50 mm graphene drivers don't directly make its positional audio sound dynamic. Even so, with less distortion, it's easier to distinguish sounds in fast-paced Counter-Strike 2 matches. The headset supports DTS Headphone X 2.0 out of the box, but most gamers will be better served letting the game handle 3D audio processing. By default, there is an overemphasis on bass, so unlike with the AceZone A-Spire, listeners may have to spend some time tweaking its EQ in the G Hub app. The headset's mic also focuses a bit too much on the lower registers but employs intelligent software to isolate voices.

Built to withstand the rigors of Counter-Strike 2 competition, the Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed features enough improvements to justify its asking price. Among wireless contenders, the Pro X 2 Lightspeed's powerful and clean sound makes it the best gaming headset for Counter-Strike 2.

Best Wired Gaming Headset for Counter-Strike 2

HyperX Cloud III Gaming Headset

$89 $100 Save $11

The HyperX Cloud III is the follow-up to the ultra-popular Cloud II wired gaming headset, approved by Esports competitors. Featuring angled 53 mm drivers, the Cloud III sends sound directly on a path to eardrums for maximum effect. The Cloud III is exceptionally comfortable and is compatible with PCs and most consoles.

Microphone Detachable, Noise cancellingCompatibility PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, MobileBrand HyperXWeight 318 gramsFrequency Response 10Hz-21kHzSpatial Audio DTS Headphone:XDriver 53 mm Neodymium Pros

• As comfortable as far more expensive headsets
• Precise microphone only records essential communication
• More balanced sound than Cloud II
• Durable enough to survive intense competition

Cons

• Long cord with USB DAC can get snagged
• DTS Headphone:X doesn't always sound great

$89 at Amazon$100 at Walmart$99 at Newegg$90 at HyperX$90 at Best Buy$90 at Micro Center

Few companies are as responsible for bringing pro-grade gaming headsets into the mainstream as HyperX. Without a dramatic price increase, there seemed little the manufacturer could do to improve the already popular Cloud II. Nevertheless, the wired Cloud III is even more comfortable with improved microphone clarity. Still sitting at $100 or less, the Cloud III remains a highly accessible option to perfect Counter-Strike 2 skills at home or for competitions.

Large, well-padded oval earcups are the hallmark of HyperX Cloud headsets, and the Cloud III benefits from even thicker cushioning. Sensitive points on the Cloud III are reinforced with metal parts, but the headset is flexible enough to accommodate various head sizes. The earcups slide up and down generously on the headband, ensuring comfort for all competitors.

Compared to the Logitech G Pro X 2, the Cloud III's default soundscape is slightly more balanced. FPS gamers will still experience plenty of bass tones when connected to a small USB DAC, and EQ adjustments are possible in the Ngenuity app. On the other hand, the headset's DTS Headphone:X spatial audio doesn't have the impact listeners might expect. Once again, Counter-Strike 2 gamers are better off disabling additional sound processing and relying on the Cloud III's neutral audio to keep all sound effects audible.

Among mid-range options, gamers will struggle to find a more accurate microphone than the detachable 10 mm boom mic connected to the Cloud III. HyperX added a larger mesh filter to the end of the flexible component, which better isolates voices. The only common complaint is a lack of volume, but this is easily addressed in its app. The manufacturer also added a helpful LED mute indicator visible on the mic.

If owners find the long braided USB cords used with the Cloud III too cumbersome, they should consider the Cloud III Wireless, reviewed by Game Rant. Regardless, the Cloud III builds upon a solid foundation of long-lasting comfort with a well-rounded sound and improved microphone.

Best Budget Gaming Headset for Counter-Strike 2

Razer BlackShark V2 X USB

TheRazer BlackShark V2 X USB is a slight upgrade from the popular and great-performing BlackShark V2 X as it brings a noise-cancelling microphone, making it ideal for team chat. The headset connects to the system via USB Type-A and delivers impressive sound quality thanks to its 50 mm drivers. The headset also has

Hybrid memory foam cushions and volume controls on the earcups.

Microphone HyperClear Noise CancelingCompatibility PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series, SwitchBrand RazerNoise Cancellation PassiveWeight 240 gramsSurround Sound 7.1 surround soundFrequency Response 20 Hz 20 kHzEar Cushions Hybrid memory foam cushionsDriver 50 mm Pros

• Impressive passive noise cancellation
• Lightweight with flexible construction
• USB upgrade gives more control over audio
• One of the best mics among budget headsets

Cons

• Questionable build quality with exposed wiring
• Non-detachable cord

$58 at Amazon$60 at Razer$58 at Walmart

Not all Counter-Strike legends honed their talents with expensive gaming gear. For younger players or buyers on a budget, the Razer BlackShark V2 X is an affordable gateway into the competitive gaming arena. This wired USB headset offers the same pain-free fit and microphone quality as far more expensive alternatives.

Sporting the traditional helicopter pilot design of Razer headsets, the BlackShark V2 X's large earcups can drown out more than whirring choppers. A mix of leatherette and breathable fabric on the ear cushions effectively blocks listeners from more common household distractions. The BlackShark V2 X doesn't require any complex adjustments to achieve a secure fit, and it's flexible enough for most listeners. While the headset is generally well-built, some fragile parts, like wiring between the earcups and the headband, are exposed.

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Game Rant reviewed the BlackShark V2 X shortly before Razer released a revised version with a USB adapter. With a negligible price difference, the upgrade is worthwhile for PC gamers since it allows for integration into Synapse. As a result, Counter-Strike 2 gamers can tweak the already balanced audio provided by the headset's TriForce 50 mm drivers. Also, even if it doesn't improve the spatial audio significantly in this game, users can also enable THX 7.1 spatial audio.

Often, a budget gaming headset shows its vulnerabilities with its microphone. Fortunately, that's not the case with the BlackShark V2 X, and its cardioid noise-canceling mic outperforms nearly any other headset in its price bracket. The advantage of this technology is that it focuses only on sounds directly emanating from mouths in front of it. Sadly, the boom mic is not detachable, which further limits the portability of this very lightweight 240-gram device.

Surprisingly capable as a stereo or surround sound headset, the BlackShark V2 is an affordable starting point for aspiring esports pros. With luxurious cushioning and a mic that punches above its weight class, it makes a strong case to be the best gaming headset for Counter-Strike 2.

Best High-End Gaming Headset for Counter-Strike 2

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Gaming Headset

$295 $350 Save $55

The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless gaming headset from SteelSeries is a serious gamer's tool. A gamer who wants the convenience and quality of a feature-rich wireless gaming headset need not look elsewhere. The headset's premium high-fidelity drivers deliver a clear soundscape and a fully customizable experience with the Sonar Software. It supports 360-degree spatial audio for a more immersive gaming experience and helps users hear every audio cue around them clearly.

With active noise-canceling technology enhanced by a four-mic hybrid system, gamers can use transparency mode to tune out any annoying background noises.

Microphone Retractable, Noise-cancellingCompatibility PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Bluetooth DevicesBrand SteelSeriesNoise Cancellation ActiveWeight 339 gramsBattery Life 36+ hours with swappable batterySurround Sound YesFrequency Response 1022,000 HzEar Cushions Vegan Leather & Memory FoamDriver 40 mm Neodymium Pros

• Low-pressure headband with high adjustability
• Counter-Strike 2 specific EQ profiles
• Solid battery life with swappable batteries
• Effective active noise cancellation

Cons

• Wireless DAC has limited use for PC gamers
• Sonar software has a learning curve

$350 at Amazon$295 at Newegg$292 at Walmart$347 at Best Buy$350 at Target

Counter-Strike is traditionally a PC-only title, which limits the need for a pricey multi-platform headset. Even so, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless has other advantages, like the ability to craft a perfect sound mix for Counter-Strike 2. Additional premium features, including active noise cancellation, elevate the headset over cheaper competition that disappoints with sound quality or comfort.

With a sleek and modern appearance, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless has a suspension strap below its headband to minimize discomfort. Most headsets with this design don't include sliding earcups, but there are multiple ways to adjust this SteelSeries offering. Leatherette ear cushions improve the passive noise cancellation further achieved after a highly customized fit. As expected with a high-end headset, build quality is tremendous throughout the device with generous amounts of metal parts.

SteelSeries has sponsored and worked directly with esports teams like FaZe to create gear perfect for Counter-Strike competitions. The manufacturer's software also benefits from this collaboration, and in Sonar, there are several Counter-Strike 2 EQ profiles. SteelSeries recommends players first disable 3D audio processing in the game. Whether or not these custom profiles are an improvement is up for debate, but the app does give gamers more control over the spatial audio mix. The included GameDac allows for other mixing with consoles, making the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless an excellent streaming headset.

Supplemented by Bluetooth connectivity, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless more ideally connects to its USB DAC through a high-bitrate RF protocol. This compact mixer with an OLED display also continuously recharges a swappable battery that slots into the outside of the headset's earcups. Gamers can expect more than 36 hours of playtime, which is more than adequate even if it trails behind the Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed.

In its review of the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, Game Rant praised the headset's highly customizable sound and fit. Counter-Strike 2 players will also find that the device doesn't disappoint with its mic or headset's noise-cancelling abilities.

Best Surround Sound Gaming Headset for Counter-Strike 2

JBL Quantum 910 Wireless Gaming Headset

$220 $300 Save $80

The JBL Quantum 910 is a professional-grade wireless gaming headset with JBL QuantumSPHERE 360 environmental sound. The JBL QuantumENGINE, which powers QuantumSPHERE 360, also supports DTS Headphone X: v2.0. Not only does the headset have high-quality surround sound, but it also supports Active Noise Canceling technology. This allows the user to focus on the content instead of the background noise. The JBL Quantum 910 uses a low latency 2.4 GHz connection, which eliminates lag from gameplay audio.

Microphone Flip-up, echo-cancellingCompatibility PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox, Switch, MobileBrand JBLNoise Cancellation ANCWeight 421 gramsBattery Life 39 hoursFrequency Response 20 Hz - 40 kHzDriver 50 mm Pros

• Convincing spatial audio and head-tracking
• Supple ear cushions and headband
• JBL QuantumENGINE software is refreshingly straightforward
• Above-averafe microphone performance

Cons

• Very heavy
• Congested physical controls

$220 at Amazon$220 at Walmart$300 at Micro Center

The favorite headset of Counter-Strike 2 phenomomen Mathieu "ZywOo" Herbaut, the JBL Quantum 910, brings new dimensions to gaming audio. Gamers can use the headset's dynamic spatial audio or experiment with its head-tracking features. In either case, the luxuriously padded Quantum 910 makes the Counter-Strike 2 soundscape even more lifelike.

Many high-end headsets try to disguise their gaming intentions, but that's not the case with the wireless Quantum 910. JBL's device will please fans of RGB keyboards and mice with extensive lighting on its shiny black earcups. Even though the device weighs 421 grams, the Quantum 910 doesn't feel like the most premium headset because of its mostly plastic construction. Still, it feels less heavy than it is once worn, thanks to thickly padded earcups and a cushioned headband.

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Through the reasonably easy-to-navigate QuantumEngine app, gamers can activate and adjust JBL's patented QuantumSOUND surround sound. Like with Dolby Atmos, gamers will hear flying objects in audio channels positioned above their heads. This cinematic feel extends to FPS titles, where it's easy to identify the position of enemies on a building's higher floors. Head tracking makes gaming audio even more realistic, as the position of sounds changes as heads move up, down, forward, and backward. Pro gamers likely won't use head tracking during serious competition, but it's a great way to play casual matches.

Adding to the immersive nature of spatial audio and head-tracking, the Quantum 910 has active noise-cancelling abilities. It doesn't perform quite as well as the ANC on the AceZone A-Spire, but gamers won't confuse real-world noises for in-game sound effects. Likewise, the flip-to-mute mic effectively filters out interference and can substitute for JBL's standalone streaming microphones in a pinch.

With rock-solid wireless connectivity through a USB dongle or Bluetooth, the Quantum 910 is a reliable all-around performer. Its feature set and endless physical controls may overwhelm some gamers, but it's the best gaming headset for Counter-Strike 2 for innovative surround sound.

How to Gain a Tactical Advantage in Counter-Strike 2 with Headsets

Building a PC that can run Counter-Strike 2 at high framerates is not an especially difficult task. On the other hand, finding a gaming headset that can give players a competitive edge can be frustrating. The game doesn't directly support popular spatial audio technologies like Dolby Atmos or DTS Headphone:X. Fortunately, the headsets above have perfectly calibrated sound mixes that know which sound effects to exaggerate. Counter-Strike 2 players should eliminate any candidates that don't excel in these categories:

Spatial Audio

To avoid a muddled soundscape in Counter-Strike 2, some headsets, like the AceZone A-Spire, detect audio cues directly from the game's code. The headset also boasts spatial audio with pinpoint precision, allowing listeners to know exactly what is happening around them. If you are searching for an even more VR-like listening experience, the JBL Quantum 910 adds head tracking to its multi-layered surround sound.

Wired vs. Wireless

In the past, wireless gaming headsets were shunned in the competitive gaming world. However, today, cordless options exist that can be relied on to stay powered and connected to PCs throughout long matches. The Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed is a battle-tested wireless headset with proven reliable performance in the most crowded settings. Still, wired headsets like the HyperX Cloud III never need recharging, and its superior sound quality is obtainable at a lower cost.

Mic Quality

Just as important as sound quality, Counter-Strike 2 teams need to stay in sync throughout a match to survive. For a minimal investment, the Razer BlackShark V2 X USB impresses with a noise-canceling mic that matches the clarity of much more expensive headsets. Other headsets use AI algorithms to know exactly what captured noises should be broadcast in a game. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless also eliminates background distractions with Active Noise Cancellation, even when a player is training with bots.

Build Quality

Normal gamers don't put as much wear and tear on gear as competitive Counter-Strike 2 pros. The HyperX Cloud III is reasonably priced yet benefits from a reinforced headband and resilient memory foam cushions. Likewise, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is one of the best-built headsets on the market, with a construction that favors metal more than plastic.

The AceZone A-Spire is the obvious choice for the best Counter-Strike 2 headset because it processes footsteps and distant fire before its rivals. If a buyer prefers a less expensive option, ensure that any new headset offers the comfort and performance worthy of its asking price.

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FAQ

Q: Why do Counter-Strike 2 players wear two headsets?

During competition, it's common for pros to wear earbuds that process game audio. Over these earbuds, viewers will often see a headset or headphones with noise-canceling abilities to drown out the chaos in arenas.

Q: Why do pro gamers use wired headsets?

Although more competitive gamers have embraced wireless headsets, wired headsets are still the most reliable to use during competition. Corded headsets never need recharging, and their mics are generally of superior quality.

Q: Are open-back headsets better for gaming?

Most competitive multiplayer gamers use closed-back headsets because of their passive and active noise-cancelling abilities. However, open-back headsets can provide a more natural and lifelike soundstage when playing single-player titles at home.