Best USB Headphones of 2019

1. Mpow 071 USB Headset

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Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5

The Mpow 071 USB Headset is great for everyday use when using the PC and the excellent level of functionality is ideal for professionals. The minimalist design means they are comfortable to wear and it’s a real bargain at the affordable price of under $25.

Industry-leading comfort is one of the reasons the Mpow 071 USB Headset is so highly rated. The Headband is fully adjustable, which means all head sizes can wear these headphones. Furthermore, the Earcups are soft and exert no pressure on the ears, but they are rather small. Achieving a snug fit without high levels of pressure is what long-lasting comfort is all about.

The sound card has a number of functions such as muting the microphone and altering the volume. It’s robust and conveniently placed for easy access. The microphone is unidirectional and a flexible arm is designed to give you freedom of placement. You can place the microphone exactly where you feel that it’s convenient for you.

The Mpow 071 USB Headset is designed for crystal clear conversations – even in noisy environments. When speaking to a client or calling your family via Skype you’ll have some of the clearest conversations you’ve ever had online.

The only drawback of the Mpow 071 USB Headset is the lack of durability. You may find yourself using the warranty a lot sooner than you would have liked, but if you look after your electronics, then this drawback shouldn’t be much of a problem.

To summarize, the Mpow 071 USB Headset is one of the best USB headphones for calls. It’s suitable for professional use due to the comfortable fit, functionality, and crystal clear audio. You’ll struggle to find a better pair of headphones at this budget price point.

2. SADES SA902

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Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5

The SADES SA902 is a budget gaming headphone that comes in at a dirt cheap price, and you’re getting a functional product that rivals more expensive options. Don’t expect a premium finish or a sturdy feel when you hold them in-hand, but for the low price you’re getting a bunch of features that work surprisingly well.

The ergonomics of the design are great for providing a comfortable fit. The large earcups allow your entire ear to fit inside and there is sufficient ventilation to avoid the build-up of moisture and heat. Therefore, you can enjoy the SADES SA902 for long gaming sessions lasting for hours.

The crystal clear microphone drastically reduces the ambient noise and sounds great. You can chat with family/friends or communicate with other players while gaming. However, for professional use you may need to upgrade to some of the headphones with clearer microphones, which can be found in this buyer’s guide.

7.1 surround sound is available, which is amazing at this budget price point. The 360° sound field allows you to figure out what is happening around you without seeing it first-hand. This can give you an advantage in competitive gaming.

However, there are a few drawbacks that are worth considering before buying this gaming headset. The lows and highs need some work because at above-average volume levels there is a lack of clarity. Furthermore, the microphone is not long enough as it can be hard to be heard at times. Finally, the controller unit needs to have a better design as it is not conveniently positioned.

To summarize, the SADES SA902 is one of the best budget gaming USB headphones on the market. The mix of the surround sound, comfortable fit, and low price means you’re getting value for money.

3. Plantronics PLNAUDIO478

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Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5

Are you looking for a budget option that has a number of useful features for PC users? Then you should consider the Plantronics PLNAUDIO478, which are one of the better non-gaming headphones on this list.

They have a small and lightweight design that’s comfortable to wear for hours. The audio is serviceable with these Plantronics headphones, but not meant to be used for music. The audio is rich with detail that’s primarily suitable for voice calls. It’s ideal for individuals who operate an online business and need to get in touch with clients via a voice call.

A control box panel is added where you can call or decline Skype calls and alter the volume. The mic can also be muted using this box for when you finish taking a call. The portable and compact design is small enough to not take up too much space on your desk. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about finding a place to store it when not in use.

The microphone is noise canceling, which means ambient noise is blocked out when speaking. This makes it easier to have a conversation in noisy environments like the office. Furthermore, audio-enhancing technologies are used to promote noise-free conversations that allow each word to be conveyed in a clear manner.

The design is foldable, which means it is ideal for traveling. You can store it in your suitcase and it won’t take up much space or weight. However, the materials aren’t the most durable, so take care when handling it.

The lack of overall audio quality means these aren’t suitable for music, watching movies, or leisure use. However, this is no big deal if you need a USB headphone solution for work.

To summarize, the Plantronics PLNAUDIO478 is an affordable choice that is suitable for work and traveling. The combination of the noise canceling microphone, foldable design, and low cost means you’re getting value for money with this purchase.

4. Sennheiser Culture Series Wideband Headset

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Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5

The Sennheiser Culture Series Wideband Headset is a great choice for work and general use when on the PC. It is ergonomically designed and comes at a budget price point that is affordable. It has a simple design and the materials used aren’t the most premium. However, that isn’t an issue if you’re only going to be using these while sitting in front of your personal computer at home or in the office.

The microphone has a noise canceling element that allows for clear conversations in noisy enviroments. Therefore, you can be in busy office settings and the ambient noise will not get in the way of the person at the other end of the line hear you properly.

The Sennheiser HD voice clarity ensures you’ll hear conversations clearly as they are meant to be heard. Sennheiser is one of the premier brands in the world when it comes to audio products. They have utilized their technological prowess in this budget offering.

The lightweight earpads are comfortable to wear and will not feel cumbersome after many hours of use. Therefore, they are ideal for working the entire day during the workweek. The headphones are compatible with integrated call control and the microphone can be swivel upwards to remove it out of the way.

A disadvantage of these headphones is the lack of durability, which can be a problem if you need to use them when traveling. Furthermore, the headband does not provide enough flexibility for all head types to be accommodated.

Overall, the Sennheiser Culture Series Wideband Headset is a solid offering that provides the capability to execute clear conversations. The Sennheiser HD audio implemented here means you’ll hear every detail of their voice and the noise canceling mic provides the same for the person at the other end of the line.

5. HyperX Cloud II

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Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5

HyperX manufactures some of the best USB headphones on the market, and have been doing so for many years. They take pride in ensuring all facets of their headphones match up to industry-leading standards, such as the comfort, audio quality, durability, and style. If you’re looking for a safe bet, then checking out the HyperX Cloud II or any other HyperX headphones is a good idea.

This visual black and red style gives these headphones a gaming feel. The large earcups stand out right away and they provide extreme levels of comfort. Your ears will comfortably fit inside the earcups and memory foam is used to ensure comfort. The headband can be easily adjusted to give you a great fit regardless of your head size.

The superb audio performance is delivered via the 53mm drivers that allow for crystal lows, mids, and highs. You’ll have an immersive gaming experience every time, and they are suitable for enjoying music. The audio control box can be used to toggle the 7.1 surround sound, mute the mic, and alter the volume.

The microphone that’s included is digitally enhanced to ensure the person at the other end of the line can hear you clearly. It’s a TeamSpeak certified microphone, which is no easy accolade to achieve. The quality is so good that pro gamers around the world use these headphones when in the heat of digital battle.

A drawback of these headphones is the flimsy carry case that’s included. It’s evident that the manufacturer didn’t spend as much detail here in comparison to the headphones. Furthermore, there is no software to customize your audio experience.

To conclude, the HyperX Cloud II is one of the industry leaders in the gaming headset department. The quality here is so great that it can be used for much more than gaming. The awesome audio performance, comfort, premium finish, and solid microphone means you’ll be getting one of the best USB headphones on the market.

6. Razer Kraken 7.1 Chroma V2

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Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5

Razor is a premier gaming brand that consistently delivers in the quality department. Their Kraken headsets are some of the best at the under $100 price point. The second version of the headphones comes with a number of refinements, but overall you’re getting the same quality the marketplace has come to appreciate from the first version.

The surround sound software included in the package allows you to customize the audio experience. You can toggle the surround sound on and off to see what works best for you. During gaming sessions, the surround sound feature allows you to figure out the directionality and puts you in the center of the action.

The driver size is 50mm and the frequency response is 12Hz–28KHz. The overall audio quality is impactful and will impress from the very first listening session. The audio quality is so good that you can enjoy music or watch movies.

The large earcups might be one of the first things that you notice about the Razer Kraken 7.1 Chroma V2. They add a lot of bulk to the headphones but help you achieve a comfortable fit that’s pleasant to wear on a daily basis. The over-ear cushions are soft on the skin and provide excellent levels of durability.

Another highlight of the design is the microphone that is fully retractable and is engineered to allow for crystal clear audio. The microphone has a noise canceling element that eliminates ambient noise when you talk. This will come in handy when you want to have an online conversation in a noisy environment.

To conclude, the Razer Kraken 7.1 Chroma V2 is an excellent gaming headset that covers all the basics and has some premium features too. The combination of the comfortable fit, awesome audio quality, and retractable microphone means you’re getting a lot for your money.

7. Jabra Evolve 40

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Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5

The Jabra Evolve 40 is one of the best USB headphones for work or taking online calls. The quality here ensures professionals can use it as a tool to conduct business on a daily basis. You can use the provided USB or 3.5mm cable to connect in the manner that best suits your requirements. The visual design looks elegant and oozes of class.

The HD audio delivers a crystal clear signal via the microphone. Therefore, engaging in calls will be pleasant as the person at the other end of the line will clearly hear you. Likewise the audio you hear using the Jabra Evolve 40 is very clear as each sound is delivered using sophisticated levels of technology. The audio quality may not be compatible for music, but if it’s clarity you’re after then these are the headphones for you.

You can be more productive with the Jabra Evolve 40 by using the “busylight button”. It activates when you are on call and have another caller that’s trying to reach you. This allows you to handle more than one client at a time. The headphones are compatible with a number of platforms, which includes Skype for Business, GoToMeeting, chromebox, fuze, Adobe Connect, StartMetting and much more.

These headphones are ideal for everyday use as the comfort is excellent. The headband is fully adjustable to ensure a snug fit and the earcups are soft. You’ll be wearing these for hours without the need to take a break. Durability is another positive aspect here because the materials were carefully selected to provide longevity.

To conclude, the Jabra Evolve 40 is a solid choice for professionals and amateur users looking for a reliable USB headset. The noise-canceling microphone, crystal clear audio, and comfortable fit are just some of the highlights here.

8. Creative Sound BlasterX H7

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Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5

The Creative Sound BlasterX H7 is a compelling package that competes with some very good products from Razor and HyperX. The award winning sound signatures and upgraded drivers are just some of the things to get excited about here. You’ll come to appreciate the attention to detail and sophistication that has been implemented with these USB headphones.

The 50mm audio drivers deliver an impactful gaming experience that will impress you regardless of what game you’re playing. Rich audio and crystal clear beats means you will hear every detail of the gaming world you enter. Furthermore, you can enjoy your library of music with the Creative Sound BlasterX H7 – the audio quality is that good.

The lightweight ergonomic design has a mixture of soft-touch plastics, memory foam, and leather that has a premium feel. The metal framework of the headphones has a sturdy feel that adds durability. The overall fit is snug, but comfortable at the same time. The headband has reinforced steel for durability and stability, but the adjustability allows for comfort. You’ll love wearing these on a regular basis when sitting in front of your computer.

Connectivity is another highlight of the H7 as you can combine it with almost any device you might own. The USB input can be used with the PC and PS4, and the 3.5mm jack can be used to connect to smartphones and the iPad.

Consider a few of the drawbacks that might be a deal breaker for you. The highs are a little hyped and the mids seems to be a bit less prominent. Also the software solution could add a few presents to use right away.

To summarize, the Creative Sound BlasterX H7 offer cutting edge technology at a competitive price point. It has covered all the major bases when it comes to what consumers want and need from a USB gaming headset.

9. Sennheiser PC 373D

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Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5

Sennheiser is one of the most respected audio brands in the world as they consistently deliver industry leading headphones. The Sennheiser PC 373D headphones deliver top performance in a number of departments that fully justify the premium price point. However, there are also a few drawbacks to be aware of before pulling the trigger on a purchase.

Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound has been implemented into these headphones that allow you to become immersed in the audio. For example, when gaming you can hear the directionality of the world around you. When enemies are closing in on your position you can figure out where they are coming from. This adds another dimension to your enjoyment of playing games on your PC.

The frequency range of the Sennheiser PC 373D is 15–28,000 Hz, which means you’re getting bass that packs a punch and clarity across the entire range of the frequency spectrum. The 116 decibel sensitivity level means the audio can get very loud. However, there is no noise isolation, so you’ll need to be in a quiet room to fully enjoy the audio.

The headphones have an open back design that allows free passage of audio in and out of the headphones. This is beneficial because the soundstage is increased. You’ll feel as if the audio is real and happening all around you as opposed to the synthetic feeling that it’s just in your head. However, a downside of the open back design is the distractions from the surrounding environment.

The XL earcups are huge and will easily allow your ears to fit inside. Ventilation in and out of the earcups means your ears will be kept cool during long sessions. However, the material of the earcups isn’t the softest out there.

The microphone can be swiveled up and will automatically turn off when you do so. It’s a noise-canceling microphone that blocks out the ambient noise that could interfere with your conversation or gaming session.

To summarize, the Sennheiser PC 373D is one of the best USB headphones that the market has to offer if you can get over the bulky size. The positive aspects here are the comfortable fit, amazing audio, and excellent microphone. Sennheiser is a solid brand and the PC 373D is just another stellar offering in their range.

10. SteelSeries Arctis Pro

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Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5

The SteelSeries Arctis Pro is a highly competitive USB headphone that combines an array of features to deliver a professional level of performance. Visually the headphones look elegant and premium, which fully justifies the high price point. SteelSeries products have impressed consumers for a number of years, which means you can trust with what they are offering here.

The Hi-Res audio drivers have an upper range of 40,000 Hz, which is around double when compared with the majority of the marketplace. The clarity of the audio across the spectrum is amazing as you’ll hear every detail. Furthermore, the SteelSeries Engine software allows you to customize the audio to your specific requirements. Play around with the surround sound settings, the RGB lighting on each earcup, and tones.

You won’t have a problem wearing these headphones for hours due to the comfortable fit. The self-adjusting headband is comparable to skiing goggles in terms of design, which shows the level of thought that has gone into them. The AirWeave ear cushions are very comfortable and provide a nice level of ventilation, which means you’ll be wearing them for hours without discomfort. The build is suitable for professionals and esports participants use them across the world.

The ClearCast Bidirectional microphone is widely recognized as one of the top performing microphones for gamers. You can use the mic to record content or talk with family or friends. The background noise cancelation is so good that you can have a clear conversation in a noisy environment.

The disadvantage of these headphones is the steep price – some might argue that you can get comparable quality at a cheaper price point. Furthermore, the soundstage could be improved as currently, it’s not the widest.

To summarize, the SteelSeries Arctis Pro is a solid offering from a reliable company in the personal audio marketplace. The combination of professional grade features and no big weaknesses means you’re getting a well-executed set of headphones.