As the name has it, a surround sound headphone surrounds you with sound. While the conventional stereo headphones use volume to determine where a second comes from, a surround sound headphone delays the sound in the ‘off ear’ to trick your brain into thinking that the sound is coming from a specific direction.
This is just one of the several processing features used by a surround sound headphone to deliver a realistic 360-degree sound experience. If you don’t take these features into account, then you may end up with a below-par surround sound headphone.
For starters, the headphone should be loud enough to maximize the sound effects for an authentic surround sound experience. Plus, the headphone should be comfortable to wear and should be able to connect with your device conveniently.
Below are the primary things you need to check before purchasing the best surround sound headphones,
Driver Size: Many people fail to check the driver size before purchasing a surround sound headphone. However, it is one of the most important components. It acts like a loudspeaker and generates sound. It determines the loudness of the sound. A driver size of 50mm is necessary for gaming headphones to experience the realistic sound effects of gunfire and explosions.
Form Factor: Headphones have 4 types of form factors. Among them, the on ear and the over ear are the most popular ones. The over ear headphones have large ear cups that cover your ear entirely. They are great at eliminating ambient noise for an immersive audio experience. The on ear headphones feature smaller ear cups that rest on your ears and offer a lesser bass.
Connectivity Type: The surround sound headphones feature either a wired or wireless connection. Most wired headphones offer a better sound quality as there is no interference. Besides, you don’t have to worry about the battery running out. The wireless headphones, on the other hand, are designed for convenience where you are not restricted by wires.
Your search for the perfect surround sound headphone doesn’t end here. There are several other features that determine the sound quality and the comfort level of the headphone. You will find the complete list of such features in the “Buying Guide” section of this article. But, before heading to that, please check out our curated list of the Best Surround Sound Headphones 2022.
Best Surround Sound Headphones List 2024
Best Surround Sound Headphones Reviews
1. SteelSeries Arctis 7 Surround Sound Headphone
SteelSeries is a popular manufacturer of computer accessories and peripherals. The brand develops a wide range of products including headsets, mice, keyboards, mouse pads, and controllers.
SteelSeries Arctis 7 surround sound headphone features v2.0 7.1 surround sound that provides 360 degrees of precision audio experience. It is equipped with s1 speaker drivers for delivering ultra-low distortion with ultra-low latency and zero interference. Plus, the mic eliminates background noise and produces studio voice clarity.
The headphone features a lightweight design with just 2.4 grams. With a wireless range of 40 feet/12 m, you get a more flexible seating distance. Additionally, it also has a 3.5mm audio jack for wired connections. It has a battery life of 24 hours. The headphone has a frequency response in the range of 20–20000 kHz and sensitivity of 98 dB. It is compatible with PC, Mac, PS, Switch, and Mobile devices.
Best Features
- S1 speaker drivers
- 2-in-1 wired and wireless connectivity
- 7.1 surround sound with 360-degree precision
- 40 feet/12 m wireless range
- Lightweight with 2.4 grams
- 24-hour battery life
- 20-20000 kHz frequency response and 98 dB sensitivity
What we didn’t like about it
- High distortion
- Surround sound is not up to the mark
- Not very comfortable to wear – ears become hot
2. HyperX Cloud II Surround Sound Headphone
Hyper is a one-stop platform for all your PC and computer peripheral needs. The brand has a large product portfolio including headsets, keyboards, mice, mouse pads, memory storage devices, USBs, chargers, gaming consoles, and eyewear.
HyperX cloud II surround sound headphone is equipped with large 53 millimeter drivers for delivering supreme quality audio. The 7.1 surround sound allows you to hear in-game details precisely and gives you an advantage in competitive gaming. The closed ear cup design reduces ambient noise while the memory foam ear cushions along with padded leatherette headband provide comfort during long gaming sessions.
The headphone features a durable aluminum frame that can sustain physical damage and last longer. The detachable mic has a noise cancelling feature for chatting with your friends and teammates during online gaming. Plus, the internal sound card DSP enhances your voice for optimal gaming experience. The headphone is compatible with PC, Mac, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices.
Best Features
- 53mm sound drivers
- 7.1 surround system
- Closed ear cup design with ambient noise reduction
- Durable aluminum frame
- Memory foam ear cushions and padded leatherette headband
- Detachable mic with noise cancellation
What we didn’t like about it
- Wired/cord is not very durable
- Doesn’t work with Xbox
3. Jeecoo Xiberia USB Pro Surround Sound Headphone
Jeeco is a reliable brand that specializes in developing gaming headsets and computer speakers. The brand’s audio devices are equipped with touch controls for ease of use.
This surround sound headphone features a 50mm speaker unit along with a built-in 7.1 surround sound for detailed sound effects. The headphone has an in-line controller with volume adjuster, mic on/off, and mic volume adjuster. Plus, it has a clip for attaching it on to your t-shirt for convenient operation. It has RGB lighting to set the mood for gaming.
The headphone has an adjustable metal headband and a flexible microphone for a sturdy and flexible construction. The over ear design with memory foam cushion pads and soft earmuff provides added comfort. The unidirectional mic prevents ambient noise and picks your voice clearly and vividly. The mix can be retracted when not in use. It is compatible with PCs and laptop computers.
Best Features
- 50mm speaker drivers
- Over ear design
- 7.1 surround sound
- Memory foam cushion pads and soft earmuff
- Adjustable metal headband with flexible mic
- RGB lighting
What we didn’t like about it
- Bass could have been louder
- Software is difficult to use and doesn’t have adjustable settings for bass
4. Razer Kraken Tournament Edition Surround Sound Headphone
Razer is one of the most popular PC gaming peripherals brands that sells a diverse range of products including laptops and desktops, gaming consoles, keyboards, mice, audio devices, mobile controllers, and streaming devices.
Razer Kraken’s surround sound headphone uses custom-tuned 50 mm drivers that provide accurate audio spatial information for an immersive experience. There is a DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) for reproducing crisp and sharp sounds. It has in-line audio controls including analog volume control wheel and mute switch for mic.
The wired headphone features oval-shaped, gel-infused cushions to reduce pressure build-up and overheating even when you use the headphone for long hours. The mic does its job in preventing ambient noise for clear communication. The headphone is compatible with PC, laptops, gaming consoles, and mobile devices. However, THX Spatial Audio only supports Windows 10 64-bit.
Best Features
- 50mm sound drivers
- 7.1 surround sound
- Digital to Analog converter for audio spatial information
- Oval-shaped, gel-infused cushions
- Retractable noise-cancelling mic with in-line controls
What we didn’t like about it
- THX Spatial Audio doesn’t work with gaming consoles
- Feeling of discomfort during long gaming sessions
5. Philips Audio USB Surround Sound Headphone
Philips has become a household name that does not need any introduction. With over 50 years of acoustic innovation, the brand develops next gen audio systems with innovative design and advanced features.
Philips’ surround sound headphone is equipped with 50mm neodymium drivers that are tuned for an optimized audio experience. It comes with two sound presets for listening to music and gaming. With the help of the virtual 7.1 surround system, you can hear your opponents before you see them which gives a major advantage in competitive gaming.
The headphone features a lightweight and durable design with breathable ear-cup cushions. The cable is durable and lasts longer even when rough-handled. The unidirectional mic picks up your voice by eliminating background noise for clear communication. It has in-line controls including a mic mute button. The RGB lighting has different color modes for lighting up the environment.
Best Features
- 50mm neodymium drivers
- 7.1 surround system
- Two preset sound modes – music and gaming
- Lightweight design
- Breathable ear-cup cushions
- Noise cancelling mic with in-line controls
- RGB lighting
What we didn’t like about it
- Bass is low
- Sound bleeding
- Not durable – Made of plastic parts
6. Eksa Gaming Surround Sound Headphone
Eksa develops high end headsets that are specifically tailored for PS4/PS5, Xbox, and 7.1 surround sound headsets. The brand also develops durable headset stands with USB charger and 3.5mm ports.
Eksa’s surround sound headphone uses a 50mm magnetic neodymium driver combined with 7.1 surround sound USB audio chip to deliver the best acoustic experience. The headphone does not need any driver and can be used conveniently. It comes with RGB lighting for a visually stunning look.
The headphone features an ergonomic design for all-day comfort. It has soft memory protein earmuffs on both sides to provide comfort for long gaming sessions. Plus, the headband facilitates balanced weight distribution with reduced clamping force for maximum comfort. The noise-cancelling mic is equipped with a one-key mute switch along with volume adjustment for ease of use.
The surround sound headphone is backed by a 2-year warranty from the original date of purchase.
Best Features
- 50mm magnetic neodymium driver
- 7.1 surround sound system
- Ergonomic design soft memory protein earmuffs
- Noise cancelling mic with one-key mute switch and volume adjustment
- RGB lighting
- 2-year warranty
What we didn’t like about it
- Ears get warm when used for long hours
- Noise-cancelling feature of the mic is not up to the mark
7. Klim Mantis Gaming Surround Sound Headphone
Klim manufactures a wide range of computer peripherals including laptop coolers, keyboards, mice, mouse pads, gaming chairs, glasses, CD players, microphone, and headsets. The brand is known for its reliable after-sales service.
Klim’s Mantis gaming headphone features 7.1 surround sound that will keep you one step ahead of everyone when it comes to competitive gaming. You will know from which direction the shots are coming from and you will hear the movements of opponents even before seeing them. With a weight of 319 gms, the headphone is light and easy to use.
The surround sound headphone features a full matte black color with red markings for an attractive design. It has an extra long cable of almost 10 feet. The mic allows you to communicate clearly by eliminating background noise. The headband is flexible and cushioned for providing comfort during long gaming sessions. It is equipped with a controller including mic, mute, and volume controls for PC. The headphone is compatible with PC, Mac, and gaming consoles.
The surround sound headphone is backed by a 2-year warranty from the original date of purchase.
Best Features
- 7.1 surround system
- Noise cancelling mic
- Full matte black color with red marking
- Flexible and cushioned headband
- 10 feet extra long cable
- 2-year warranty
What we didn’t like about it
- Feels a bit heavy
- Mic sound quality is not good enough – not audible
8. Logitech G432 Wired Surround Sound Headphone
Logitech is a popular computer accessories and peripherals company that has been operational since 1981. The company has multiple brands including Logitech, Logitech G, Ultimate Ears, Astro Gaming, Blue Microphones, Jaybird, and Streamlabs.
Logitech’s G432 surround sound headphone is equipped with large 50mm drivers to deliver an immersive gaming experience. Plus, the surround sound creates a 3D soundscape with precise positional audio. With this, you will be able to hear the foot movements of enemies sneaking upon you. You will be able to hear before you can see.
The headphone features a slim and lightweight design with just 1.25 lbs. It has leatherette ear pads along with a premium headband to provide comfort during long gaming sessions. There is a 6mm flip to mute the mic along with the easy volume control settings. It is equipped with a 3.5mm audio jack and a USB input for connecting it to PCs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.
Best Features
- 50mm sound drivers
- 3D soundscape with precise positional audio
- Leatherette ear pads with premium headband
- Noise cancelling mic with easy volume control settings
- Slim and lightweight design with 1.25 lbs
What we didn’t like about it
- Build quality is poor
- Audio quality is not up to the mark
9. Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Surround Sound Headphone
Turtle Beach uses innovative technologies to develop amazing audio quality headphones with clear communication and comfortable designs. Whether you are a hardcore gamer or casual gamer, the brand has a headphone specifically tailored for your needs.
Turtle Beach’s Stealth 700 surround sound headphone uses X surround sound technology with a 7.1 channel soundstage to create the most immersive audio experience. The headphone offers you a lot more than just gaming audio. You can attend calls and enjoy your favorite music while playing games. It comes with a wireless USB adapter featuring smart channel hopping technology for delivering best-in-class gaming and chat audio experience.
This is one of the very few surround sound headphones with a glass-friendly design. Turtle Beach has used its ProSpecs design to remove the pressure on your glasses while wearing the headphone. Plus, the ear cushions are covered in synthetic leather for added comfort. It is equipped with an active noise cancellation mic for clear and vivid communications. The headphone is powered by a 10-hour rechargeable battery for long gaming sessions.
The surround sound headphone is compatible with PCs, mobile devices, and gaming consoles including PS5.
Best Features
- X surround sound technology with a 7.1 channel soundstage
- ProSpecs glass friendly design
- Synthetic leather wrapped ear cushions
- Noise cancellation mic
- Wireless USB adapter
- 10-hour rechargeable battery
What we didn’t like about it
- Lots of plastic parts that lack durability
- A bit on the expensive end
10. Corsair Void Pro Surround Sound Headphone
Corsair is another popular brand that specializes in developing PC components and gaming gear. The brand sells keyboards, mice, mouse pads, headsets, ambient lighting, keycaps, docking stations, audio peripherals, cases, CPU coolers, fans, power supply units, and memory storage devices.
Corsair’s Void Pro surround sound headphone is equipped with 50mm neodymium speaker drivers that are custom tuned to provide the most realistic audio experience with wide range and accuracy. Plus, it has Dolby Headphone 7.1 surround sound for multi-channel audio. The wired headphone has a cable length of 1.8 meter for more flexibility.
The headphone’s ear cups are made of microfiber mesh fabric and wrapped in memory foam that provides gaming comfort. The unidirectional microphone is optimized to reduce background noise and pick your voice for crystal clear communication. It has an LED mute indicator for easy adjustment. Besides, the RGB backlighting can be customized for unlimited color options to liven up the environment.
Best Features
- 50mm neodymium speaker drivers
- Dolby Headphone 7.1 surround sound
- Microfiber mesh fabric ear cups wrapped in memory foam
- Unidirectional microphone with background noise reduction
- LED mute indicator
- 1.8 meter cable length
- Customizable RGB backlighting
What we didn’t like about it
- Have to download iCue software for full adjustment of the settings
- Not compatible with Mac
11. Senzer SG500 Surround Sound Headphone
Senzer is a relatively small brand. But nevertheless the brand develops high quality audio devices and peripherals with an affordable price tag. The brand also sells PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo accessories.
Senzer’s SG500 surround sound headphone has stereo sound capability for a 360-degree realistic audio. It not only picks up quiet and far away noises but also enhances the loud noises like gunfire and explosions for a real-like gaming experience. The noise-cancelling mic has a bendable design that can be fixed to any position. It eliminates static noise and filters out ambient sound while picking up your voice clearly.
The headphone features a lightweight design with just 0.66 lbs, that is 40% lighter than the standard gaming headsets. The headphone can be folded and the ear pads can be detached for maximum portability. The memory foam ear cushions provide comfort by preventing heat build-up during long gaming sessions. The headphone is compatible with PC, Mac, mobile devices, and the latest gaming consoles.
Best Features
- 360-degree realistic audio with stereo sound capability
- Bendable noise cancelling mic
- Lightweight with just 0.66 lbs
- Foldable design with detachable ear pads
- Memory foam ear cushions
What we didn’t like about it
- Microphone is very sensitive and the noise cancelling feature is not up to the mark
12. Sony L600 Wireless Surround Sound Headphone
While Sony is a popular brand that manufactures a diverse range of products, it is specifically known for its audio systems and peripherals that deliver high quality sound. It has a premium line of 350 reality audio systems, wireless speakers, and headphones.
Sony’s L600 surround sound headphone provides an optimized audio experience through four different modes – theatre, game, dialog, and sports. The theatre mode uses Sony’s Virtual Phones Technology (VPT) along with a virtual sound field to deliver an authentic theatre audio experience. It features a 7.1ch3 theatre-style surround audio that is stimulated by Dolby Audio.
With this headphone, you get 98.43 feet wireless range for long-range connectivity and viewing freedom. The battery life lasts for up to 17 hours, which is more than sufficient to support your long gaming sessions. Plus, it has a lightweight and comfortable design so that you don’t feel any discomfort. The headphone comes with a charging stand for easy and secure charging.
Best Features
- 7.1ch3 theatre-style surround audio
- Four modes – Theatre, Game, Dialog, and Sports
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- 17-hour battery life
- 98.43 feet wireless range
- Comes with charging stand
What we didn’t like about it
- Difficult to use the controls while wearing them
- Expensive
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing the Surround Sound Headphone
When you are searching for the perfect surround sound headphone, you shouldn’t just look at the sound quality. You should also consider the comfort of the headphones, especially if you are a gamer and planning to use them for long long gaming sessions. Below is the complete list of features you need to check before purchasing the Best Surround Sound Headphone
Sensitivity, Impedance, and Frequency Response
Along with the driver size, sensitivity determines the loudness of your headphones. It is measured in Decibels (dB). A surround sound headphone should have a sensitivity of at least 85 dB/mW for a decent audio experience. If you want an immersive gaming experience, then you need a sensitivity of 110 dB/mW.
Impedance and sensitivity go hand in hand. Impedance is the power required for a headphone. The headphone should have a lower impedance for a better sound quality. The mobile device, laptop, or gaming console to which the headphone is connected to provides the required power. If the impedance is low, the extra power can be used to increase the sound. An impedance of 16 ohms will deliver a good sound quality.
Frequency response refers to the range of frequency a headphone can produce. The lower limit indicates the bass sound and the upper limit indicates treble. Most headphones come with a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. However, if you want more bass, then opt for a headset with a wider frequency response.
Range
The range refers to the cord length in the case of wired headphones and the wireless connectivity distance in the case of wireless headphones. The headphone should have a cord length of at least 3 metres. However, if you need more flexibility, you should check for one with a longer cord. There are also separate cord extenders that you can get to extend the cord length.
Bluetooth is the standard wireless connectivity of headphones. The range of the Bluetooth depends on its version. Bluetooth 5.0 has 4 times the range of Bluetooth 4.2. Most wireless headphones will offer you a range of 10 meters that should suffice.
Battery Life
The battery life is only specific to wireless headphones. If you are a casual gamer or only use the headphone to listen to songs and attend calls, then a battery life of 4 hours would do. But, if you are a hardcore gamer, then the headphone should have a battery life of atleat 10 hours to support the long gaming sessions. Plus, you should also check how long the headphone takes to be charged fully. You don’t want to spend more time charging the headphones and less time in using them.
Design and Appearance
The surround sound headphones should feature a comfortable and lightweight design to provide maximum comfort. The ear cups should have memory foam or soft memory protein to prevent heating and pressure build-up during long gaming sessions. Besides, the headband should be made of padded leather for comfort.
If you are using the headphones for your PC or gaming console, then it should complement the color of the device. Plus, the latest surround sound headphones feature cool designs with customizable LED lights to liven up the environment.
Warranty
No matter how robust their construction may be, the headphones are prone to physical damages and malfunctions. To protect your money, it is safe to get a headphone backed by a warranty period. We suggest you go with a surround sound headphone covered at least under a 1-year warranty period.
Conclusion
Still unsure about which surround sound headphone to purchase? Please check out our favorite picks
Sony L600 Wireless Surround Sound Headphone delivers the most authentic and immersive sound experience. With 4 different audio modes, the headphone produces optimized sound experience. Plus, it features a 7.1ch3 theatre-style surround audio that is stimulated by Dolby Audio.
Senzer SG500 Surround Sound Headphone features the most lightweight design with just 0.66 lbs. It has a foldable design with detachable ear pads. Plus, it has a 360-degree realistic audio with stereo sound capability.
Klim Mantis Gaming Surround Sound Headphone is one of the best budget options with an excellent surround sound quality. It features an attractive design of full matte black color with red markings along with an extra long of 10 feet.
If you still have any queries, please let us know using the comments section. My team will be glad to help you out.
