Topic: Switch Wireless Gaming Headset

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So, let’s talk headsets.

I’ve recently come to experiment with 5 different headsets, Bluetooth (both aptx and not), wireless, wired... you name it, I’ve tried it.

Here are my findings:

Best Wireless Headset For Switch

1 Steelseries Arctis 3 Bluetooth
This is the overall winner. It’s incredibly comfortable (something far more important than you think), both the earcups and headband. Sound is ok, fine for price, but where it really shines is the fact it’s bluetooth, and when coupled with an adapter (I use the Gulikit Bluetooth adapter) on Switch, it can function as a wireless headset. But what’s more, is if you plug in the headphone jack cable and connect to Switch, you can use the Bluetooth to connect to your phone for chat using discord, Nintendo Online app, even a phone call. The mic is retractable and pushes inside for when you only want to use it as headphones.

Aside from requiring a Bluetooth adapter purchased separately, the one noticeable downside- the one thing that keeps this from being the ultimate headset, is that by nature of Bluetooth there is a smidge of lag. Not much. If you’re not looking for it you probably won’t notice. But if you are looking for it you can tell when panning icons on the main menu that the sound comes just a tiny bit after you press the button. It’s a very small thing but it is something you should be aware of and it’s why headset number two is on the list.

pros

• bluetooth means compatibility across every device known to man
• rare ability to mix game audio from headphone jack and chat audio from phone over Bluetooth
• incredibly comfortable
• retractable mic
• easy buttons for power on/off and volume control

cons

• separate Bluetooth adapter required for wireless use with Switch
• Bluetooth means a smidge of discernible lag
• proprietary adapter cables

2 Steelseries Arctis 1 Wireless

And this is the answer to the smidge of lag inherent in any Bluetooth connection. Keep in mind it’s not very much lag at all but it is kind of noticeable if you’re paying attention. But if you want absolutely instantaneous feedback, this is the headset you want. Instead of Bluetooth it comes with its own usb-c wireless dongle, meaning it plugs directly in the Switch (or dock via included adapter) just like the separately purchased Bluetooth dongle would, except its 2.4ghz Wireless instead of Bluetooth, and as such has zero discernible lag. The mic is detachable for this one, and no elastic strap for headband. It’s adjustible by earcups extending. Downside is, no Bluetooth means can’t connect to phone for chat, and since most switch games don’t include chat this isn’t a really good choice if you want to chat. Unless the game you care about has it included.

pros

• Included wireless dongle
• Wireless means no lag
• usb-c dongle practically made for Switch
• adapter ensures dock compatibility and across all other consoles
• incredibly comfortable
• no proprietary cables
• detachable mic
• easy buttons for power on/off and volume control

cons

• sound is decent, not great
• no Bluetooth means no mixing chat via phone for Switch

Hated Sony Platinum Headset
I hated this headset. The sound was better than the Steelseries headsets. But the buttons were convoluted, the headband was uncomfortable (and cold since it was rubber and not elastic like Steelseries) and the earcups were uncomfortable after 5 minutes, whereas I can wear the Steelseries for 5 hours and they still feel great. That’s a dealbreaker.

pros

• good sound
• wireless adapter ensures no lag
• compatibility across all consoles

cons

• uncomfortable, uncomfortable, uncomfortable
• uncomfortable earcups
• uncomfortable headband
• earcups apply pressure
• headband feels cold when wearing
• buttons are convoluted
• uncomfortable

Misc wireless earbuds
Just not a good fit for gaming. Sound quality is horrible and most of them are uncomfortable. On top of that there’s a little bit of lag from being Bluetooth... and ya. Best to save those for music on your phone and not gaming.