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Best Gaming Headset for Sony PS5

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Gamers in search of an immersive video game experience often invest heavily in the best TVs for gaming while neglecting their audio. The audio and sound of a video game are often just as important as the graphics at capturing and holding the gamers attention. Sony delivers next generation audio capabilities in their PS5 through 3D Audio.

Best Gaming Headset for Sony PS5

Sony claims that the next generation 3D audio capabilities of the PS5 are strong enough for gamers to hear individual raindrops falling instead of just a rain audio track. The hype around 3D audio is that it positions the gamer in the center of the sound stage with all of the ambient noises of the environment occurring around them. For instance, instead of just increasing the sound of objects as your character approaches them the 3D audio technology creates a soundscape with natural depth and location for each sound.

How do I get 3D audio on PS5?

Since the 3D audio offering for the PS5 is an extension of their VR capabilities, Sony is currently focused on generating 3d audio for gamers through headphones. Some gamers will be surprised to find that their expensive home theatre Dolby Atmos system is relegated to second place behind a pair of headphones but that seems to be the current state of gaming. For gamers in search of an immersive video gaming experience, these are our top rated headphones for the PS5.

NAVIGATE OUR TOP GAMING HEADSETS FOR PS5

1. Pulse 3D Wireless Headset – PS5 Integration

pulse ps5 headphones

The best way for gamers to ensure that they are getting the best audio experience on the PS5 is to purchase the official headphones from Sony. These Pulse 3D Wireless headphones have a lot to offer with an attractive design, comfortable ear cups, and seamless integration with the PS5. The headphones have a rechargeable battery that charges quickly over a standard USB C cable and offer long 12 hour battery life to keep you gaming late into the night.

The main feature of the headphones is the 3D audio integration with PS5. These headphones send sound at gamers from every direction so that they feel like they are part of the action. Technology on the Pulse 3D wireless headphones for the PS5 also includes noise-canceling microphones that also provide great voice capture when gaming with a party. The mute button for the microphones is easily accessible when talking with friends as are the master volume controls. The headphones connect wirelessly or over a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Pros
  • Seamless PS5 Integration
  • Built for 3D Audio
  • Strong Design & Aesthetics
Cons
  • Premium Price
  • Low Stock and Limited Availability
  • Questionable Battery Life

There are reports from Sony that any headphones plugged into the new DualSense Controllers will be able to provide a 3D audio experience on the PS5. Some of our top rated gaming headsets are below.

2. Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 2 – Reliable Quality

turtle beach 600

Gamers with a lot of accessories at their battle station likely have some Turtle Beach products already. The company has been turning out durable, reliable components for video games and PC games long enough for most gamers to have tried at least one of their products. The Stealth 600 Gen 2 headphones from Turtle Beach offer more of the same with a solid design and strong wireless performance.

One of the most popular features on these headphones is the flip to mute mic that helps gamers quickly jump in and out of a voice chat. The headphones are also quite comfortable with soft ear cups made out of a breathable fabric. Gamers can play for hours in these headphones with its soft headband and long battery life of nearly 15 hours. These headphones are available in a black or white color, with the white color nicely matching the PS5 aesthetic.

Pros
  • Flip to Mute Mic
  • Reliable Quality
  • Long Battery Life
Cons
  • No Color Choices
  • Difficult to Pair
  • Light Bass

3. Razer Kraken Gaming Headset – Lightweight Headphones

razer kraken headphones

Gamers that like a lightweight headset give good reviews to the Kraken Gaming Headset from Razer. Boasting an aluminum frame and gel-infused ear cushions, this gaming headset provides true all day comfort. The headset does a great job being lightweight without sacrificing durability. The sound comes from strong 50 mm drivers that produce an immersive 7.1 surround sound experience.

Razer does a great job of providing gamers with a budget gaming headset and anyone looking to save a few dollars can choose this over the competitors without sacrificing a tremendous amount of features beyond wireless connectivity. Razer has six color choices available for the Kraken gaming headset. These headphones also have a wheel volume control and easily accessible mute switch for party talk during gaming. The microphone is retractable so gamers not in a party can stow it away.

Pros
  • Budget Price
  • Lightweight
  • Six Color Choices
Cons
  • Less Sound
  • Stick Microphone
  • Loose Volume Wheel

4. PDP LVL50 – Easy Wireless

pdp gaming headset ps5

One of the bestselling gaming headphones on the market is the PDP LVL 50 with HD sound. These headphones are well regarded for their comfortable mesh ear cushions made out of a breathable cloth to support long gaming sessions. The flexible microphone is easy to position and includes noise cancelling technology so gaming friends in your party can hear you clearly. Simply flip the microphone up to quickly mute it in game and use the volume dial on the right ear cup for in line volume control.

Wireless headsets can sometimes fail to mesh seamlessly with the PS5 console but the LVL50 from PDP is an officially licensed PS5 product, so the company took the time to certify with Sony that it will integrate smoothly. The headphones are wireless up to 40 ft.

Pros
  • Flip to Mute Mic
  • Certified Wireless
  • Good Sound
Cons
  • Slow Charging
  • Questionable Durability
  • Cheap Microphone Material

Buying Guide: Best Gaming Headphones for PS5

Being a good gamer is in large part about concentration and it can be difficult to concentrate if you are not comfortable. The best gaming headset is one that comfortably fits your uniquely shaped head and ears. Therefore not every gaming headset is perfect for everybody. When you put on your gaming headset take an honest assessment of what parts of the headset fit you well and where the fit is bad. Try to adjust the headphones but ultimately be prepared to shop for a different brand if you cannot get the comfortable fit you want from the first headset you choose.

The new 3D Audio experience on the PS5 will push the boundaries forward for in game sound. Gamers interested in a technical explanation of Sony’s audio ambitions can learn more from this piece of their PS5 launch video –

Sony has a true commitment to delivering a high end audio experience to gamers on the Playstation 5.

Conclusion: 3D Audio options for Gamers

Gamers that want to immerse themselves deeper into the gaming environment should consider a pair of high end gaming headsets. Bringing the sound closer to the user, and blocking out the ambient noise, helps gamers feel more of the game around them. The powerful new 3D Audio on the PS5 takes that to the next level with audio tracks that perfectly position gamers in a 3D soundscape and lets sounds cascade over them. Shoppers looking for the best 3D Audio experience should look for the Pulse 3D Wireless headphones from Sony. These headphones are currently in low supply with limited inventory, but are worth waiting for.

Best Racing Wheel for Xbox Series X | S

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The processing power and graphical output of the Xbox Series X | S combine to make amazing realistic video game experiences. Gamers that are looking to take racing games to the next level of immersion can add a steering wheel and pedals as controllers to their console. These racing wheels with pedals are designed to transport drivers into the car by providing realistic force feedback that mimics the feel of the car and tires underneath.

Best Racing Wheel for Microsoft XBox Series X | S

Gamers that want to add a racing wheel to their console have a few different options available. The simulation industry has a lot of high end rigs available for serious drivers. More casual gamers just looking to add a racing wheel need to primarily decide on how much they want to invest in creating immersive racing through force feedback. Spending more money mostly translates into having components that shake and react to the road with more force and torque.

NAVIGATE OUR TOP RACING WHEELS FOR XBOX SERIES X | S

1. Logitech G920 Racing Wheel with Pedals – Realistic Feel

logitech 920 racing wheel xbox x

The best racing wheel gamers can buy for their Xbox Series X | S is the Logitech 920. This racing wheel is attractive and feels great when gaming with its stitched leather exterior wrap. The racing wheel feels very solid in your hands and is a big step up from the cheap, plastic steering wheels that gamers used in the past. The included floor pedal unit also looks great with a black base and silver pedals.

The main attraction on the Logitech 920 is the force feedback that it delivers through a dual motor setup. Gamers are able to sense the car generating understeer or oversteer similar to how a real car would provide feedback to the driver. Moving your race car over different terrain also delivers jolts to the wheel similar to what a real driver would encounter.

Xbox gamers will be familiar with the buttons in the middle of the Logitech 920, including the home button and a d-pad. The steering wheel also has a paddle shifter located in the rear of it to change gears. If you enjoy gaming with this steering wheel then the next step up is an investment in adding a gear shifter!

Pros
  • Attractive, Leather Wheel
  • Familiar Xbox Button Layout
  • Realistic Floor Pedal Unit
Cons
  • Expensive Controller
  • Mechanical Force Feedback
  • Unadjustable

2. Thrustmaster TMX Racing Wheel – Best Force Feedback

thrustmaster racing wheel xbox x

A great alternative to the Logitech 920 is the TMX Force Feedback Racing Wheel from Thrustmaster. This racing wheel is extremely popular with PC gamers and console gamers can quickly see why with its strong force feedback and unique belt-pulley system. The wheel delivers feedback that does a great job of mimicking the experience driving in a real car.

This racing wheel from Thrustmaster does not have the same thick, leather feel as the Logitech controller. Instead the racing wheel is a bit thinner and has a slightly more plastic feel to the touch. Since this wheel is also heavily targeted at PC gamers the buttons do not exactly mimic the xBox controllers placement. For instance, the colored buttons are separated along the top of this racing wheel instead of placed near each other.

The Thrustmaster has an adjustable rotation angle so that gamers can customize how much their wheel can turn – from 270 degrees to 900 degrees (the same as a race car). The wheel has an 11 inch diameter. The floor pedals on the Thrustmaster have good resistance and adjust easily but the pedal set does not include a clutch pedal. Thrustmaster produces an entire suite of products and they have add-on pedal sets that cost a bit more money but introduce a clutch pedal and other features like metal pads and individual pressure settings.

Pros
  • Strong Force Feedback
  • Great Wheel Action
  • Compatible with PC
Cons
  • Unfamiliar Button Placement
  • Plastic Wheel
  • No Clutch Pedal

3. PXN V3II PC Racing Wheel – Fast and Fitted

best xbox series x racing wheel

Gamers looking for a less expensive racing wheel option for their Xbox should consider the V3II Racing Wheel from PXN. This wheel is not as cheap as a regular video game controller but it does cost nearly half as much as the competitors. However, the racing wheels world is a pay for what you get type of place and gamers will feel the difference between the feel and force feedback on this racing wheel versus one of the more expensive options.

The racing wheel on the PXN V3II is just over 10 inches in diameter and it has a nice rubber grip that makes it easy to hold. The wheel has a dual vibration motor to provide decent force feedback and help gamers feel the car underneath them. The wheel mounts using either suction cups or a c-type clamp. This kit includes a floor pedal set and a shifter so gamers are getting a lot of value for the price of this starter wheel.

Pros
  • Budget Price
  • Rubberized Grip
  • Multi-Platform Support
Cons
  • Stiff Brakes
  • No Clutch Pedal
  • Questionable Durability

Buying Guide: Video Game Steering Wheels

Video game steering wheels are commonly called racing wheels and they are available at several different price points. Some gamers and race car enthusiasts spend a lot of money trying to simulate the race car experience so the high end of the industry has shockingly expensive rigs with shockingly extensive feature sets. For enjoying racing games on the Xbox Series X, gamers want to find a good quality racing wheel that duplicates the feel of the open road but doesn’t cost too much.

Racing wheel kits cost more than regular video game controllers. The racing wheels have to be durable enough to stand up to regular racing while also delivering the motion and force feedback necessary to recreate the driving experience. Gamers want to find a wheel that feels comfortable in their hands so instead of plastic exteriors the wheels often have leather covers. Also these kits include floor pedals so that drivers can slam on the gas and hit the brakes. All of this adds up so the quality racing wheels for Xbox can easily cost several hundred dollars.

Racing Wheel Manufacturers

Some of the major manufacturers in the industry are Logitech, Thrustmaster, and PXN. Logitech enters the industry from the perspective of an accessories manufacturer. The benefits of that is the Logitech controllers are not only high quality and highly manufactured but also tend to duplicate the look and feel of other standard non racing wheel controllers. Thrustmaster enters the industry with more a focus on racing and an entire suite of customizable racing wheel products. They have a number of steering wheel options with prices up into the high end. Thrustmaster also has some exciting partnerships with Ferrari to create expensive branded wheels for gamers. They are a reliable brand with a good history. PXN gives gamers a bit of an alternative option with some smart choices on their budget steering wheels so that gamers can have the experience without paying such high prices. This produces some tradeoffs in quality and experience.

Conclusion: Best Racing Wheel for Xbox Series X | S

Gamers looking to add a racing wheel to their controller setup have some great options available to them. However these gaming steering wheels are expensive and frequently cost several times what regular video game controllers cost. Race car video games are a lot more fun with racing wheels and gamers that do invest in them get a lot in return. The best racing wheels for Xbox provide strong force feedback, floor pedal sets, and great grip. In our ratings and reviews above we focused on the Logitech racing wheel, but the entire family of Thrustmaster products is worth considering. Budget shoppers have some less expensive options for starter wheels but ultimately give back a bit in quality and force feedback experience. If you invest in a great gaming wheel please share your experience with us below and let us know what you chose and how you like it so far.

Best Storage for Xbox Series X | S

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Xbox Series X consoles come with 1TB of internal storage. A little space is reserved for core console software and saved games but most of it is free. Some gamers can quickly fill this space up with games and apps. Gamers in need of more storage can add an external storage device.

Best External Storage for Xbox Series X

Every gamer is worried about performance, so the idea of storing your games on an external drive might worry you. For the Xbox Series X | S it is necessary to install games on the console’s internal SSD or on the approved Seagate Storage Expansion Card.

The Xbox Series X can technically store downloaded games on any external storage device and gamers can move games they want to play on and off the main internal SSD. This might help in some situations with internet connectivity costs, but otherwise it is important for gamers using the Xbox Series X to only use the approved Seagate Storage Expansion Card.

The Xbox Series X storage expansion card from Seagate has 1 TB of storage capacity so it effectively doubles the storage on your Xbox. This memory is very expensive because it is designed and configured to interact with your Xbox Series X at astoundingly high speeds. This Seagate Storage Expansion Card transfers data to the Xbox at about 4gb per second.

Seagate has done a fantastic job getting 1TB of storage in such a small form factor and capable of such astounding speeds. The memory chip generates a lot of heat and since it is so small that heat needs somewhere to go. The metal housing on the drive helps dissipate that heat and transfer it into the Xbox where internal fans can radiate it out.

This storage is expensive and likely costs more than any other accessory you will purchase for your Xbox Series X. Consider that a normal 1TB SSD with blazing fast read/write capabilities will cost well over $100 on its own, and that this SSD has a lot of customization. Good news for gamers is that the cost of this storage should come down over time. With Microsoft pushing the Game Pass option they want gamers to experience multiple games and that will require lots of storage to download games. It is in their best interest that the external storage is affordable.

Best External Storage for Xbox Series S

The components of the Xbox Series S are similar enough to the Series X that it also requires only the approved expansion card from Seagate be used to store gameplay files.

Best TVs for Xbox Series X

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Best TV for Xbox Series X

At lot of shoppers will get home with their Xbox Series X and be surprised to find that their television fails several of the system’s tests for HD compatibility. One of the most frequently failed tests is due to televisions lacking the capability to display a 120 mhz frame rate.

Frame rate is a core component of a smooth video game experience because it describes how many times a second your television draws a picture on the screen. Motion will look a lot better on a television with a 120 mhz frame rate because the image is being refreshed twice as often. There is not a lot of 120 mhz content available these days so shoppers have not emphasized frame rate in the past. Since the new Xbox Series X can support a 120 mhz frame rate, more shoppers will demand it and more tv manufacturers will work to include it as standard in their televisions.

Currently one of the best televisions available for the Xbox Series X is the Samsung Q90. This television is available in several sizes including 55″, 65″, and 75″ inch models. The Samsung Q90 boasts 4k resolution, HDR, and excellent color detail. It does support the 120 mhz frame rate found on the Xbox series X making it a great match for gamers. Shoppers can spend a lot more on a television but it is hard to improve on the Samsung Q90.

Samsung has a strong reputation for building high-quality display panels that are both durable and affordable.