Hey all,
I've taken the unfortunate path of trying to find an easy-to-setup, quality wireless headset for the Xbox One (for <$149+Tax). This has resulted in purchasing 3 different pairs of headsets in last 3 days (returning 2 of them later). For those who have been researching and looking for a quality wireless headset that's compatible fresh off the shelf on Xbox One without spending $200+, best of luck. I've come to learn that the Xbox One has more barriers to these technologies than other common systems (PC/PS4). You'll also need to be aware that headsets these days require/recommend updates to get the most out of them, e.g. you need access to a computer if you want the best value from your product.
My first mistake was assuming that the Xbox One would be able to detect and use PC compatible headsets (some misleading advertising/articles helped this too). SO I ended up purchasing these three headsets:
- Corsair VOID RGB Wireless Gaming Headset ($99)
- Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Wireless Headset ($129 sale)
- Arctis 7 Wireless Headset ($149)
The Corsair VOID RGB was pointless, as the wireless USB adapter is not recognized or compatible with Xbox One; they're super comfortable and feel like a premium product. The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 syncs directly to the Xbox, which is awesome. This is how you'd expect "wireless" to function, but after experiencing the quality material of the Corsair I still was not satisfied (I don't care for the feel of the Turtle Beach plastic or leather material). Then I purchased the Arctis 7 hoping to get the best of both (comfort & sound).
Unfortunately, the Arctis 7 is not wireless for the Xbox One; again, it does not recognize/utilize the USB wireless receiver. It does plug into the Xbox One 3.5mm equipped controller, just like the standard Microsoft Chat Headsets & Stereo Headsets. What is extremely annoying is that the packaging for the Arctis 7 does not mention this anywhere; simply says "LAG-FREE WIRLESS GAMING HEADSET" with "windows - xbox - playstation - mobile - vr" beneath it. That's my main complaint with this headset, which I blame Microsoft for more than anyone else. How does the leading software giant fail to open a platform to standard PC-technology? PS4 recognizes many USB headsets wirelessly, including the Arctis 7. The whole process has been ridiculously annoying and I hope Xbox One receives a software update to support products like PC headsets.
Had the Corsair's been usable, I wouldn't have purchased the other two headsets (it's a great device at a great price). I'd recommend Turtle Beach Stealth 700's if you're looking for a wireless headset that's great quality sound and has ease of use with Xbox One. I like to have bass & treble up; doing so makes the 700's boom with clarity. It does have Bluetooth & can be utilized with other devices as well. I just don't care for the feel of the plastic, feels gimmicky to me. Sound-wise after update/adjustment this headset is worth it.
I'm keeping the Arctis 7 headset in spite of Xbox One's inability to honor the devices wireless capabilities. The quality of material is superb, and its adjustable headband is perfect for finding a custom fit (headband is like that of snowboarding goggles). It plugs into the 3.5mm port of my controller, just like the Microsoft Stereo Headset but allows the ears to breath with its fabric earphones. The sound quality is great; the Turtle Beach 700's seem to have a higher capacity volume-wise (with Bass/Treble boost on) but Arctis 7 doesn't disappoint. It's a very balanced, sleek product that meets what I was looking for in a new headset (high quality sound plus comfort). It has the 7.1 Dolby for Windows & is compatible with Dolby Atmos on Xbox One (which I prefer over Stereo and/or Windows Sonic).
If you don't need wireless or want it; save the money & get wired. Hopefully this helps someone out there looking for some info. Feel free to ask questions. The link below is good info to have considering headsets:
Ryan
S (SteelSeries Customer Care) Feb 26, 11:14 PM CST 