Xbox headset FAQs
Kevin Webb/Business Insider
Do wireless gaming headsets have disadvantages compared to wired headsets?
Wireless headsets are more convenient than wired headsets, but competitive gamers may prefer a wired headset to avoid connection problems or audio delay. However, for most players, the potential audio delay caused by a 2.4GHz wireless headset connection won’t impact gameplay.
Also, to fully ensure there’s no latency or delay added by wireless, you also need to use a wired controller because Xbox only accepts wired headphones when plugged into a controller.
What’s the difference between Bluetooth and Xbox’s 2.4GHz wireless?
Xbox uses a proprietary 2.4GHz wireless signal for headsets and controllers rather than Bluetooth. Using 2.4GHz wireless provides better sound quality, less audio delay, and a wider wireless range compared to Bluetooth.
Bluetooth is still compatible with more devices, though, so many of the best Xbox headsets have incorporated multi-source wireless that lets you use 2.4GHz and Bluetooth simultaneously. So even though Xbox Series consoles don’t support Bluetooth audio connections, some newer headsets still offer Bluetooth to connect to your phone or other devices.
Why can’t I use my wireless Xbox headset on other consoles?
Microsoft uses a proprietary 2.4GHz wireless signal that must be licensed for use; it makes most wireless Xbox-specific headsets, like Microsoft’s official model, Xbox exclusive. On the other end of the spectrum, PlayStation-specific wireless headsets will also work with Nintendo Switch and PC but not with Xbox consoles.
However, some wireless headsets include full multi-platform support, like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro and Nova Pro 7x that we recommend in this guide. But even headsets with cross-platform support must be manually swapped between Xbox and PlayStation modes to work since they use different wireless signals. In contrast, PlayStation headsets can work with Switch consoles without any additional effort.
How do Xbox headsets handle surround sound?
Xbox consoles can use multiple spatial surround sound formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Microsoft’s Windows Sonic. With each, the Xbox handles surround sound at a software level regardless of what headset or headphones you choose to use.
Spatial audio separates sound into different audio objects, giving in-game noises a specific sense of direction. Sounds like footsteps and gunshots will resonate based on their distance and location, and the player can hear noises from above and below as well.
Xbox surround sound is available with both wired and wireless connections. In the past, gaming headsets used hardware solutions to separate sound channels, but that’s no longer necessary.
