In 2018, Nintendo further expanded the amount of gaming headsets supported by the Switch via firmware updates. With more and more online games coming to the system in 202o and beyond, such as Animal Crossing: New Horizons getting a compatible voice chatting device with good sound output quality, either as a gift for yourself and/or a loved one, is essential to the multiplayer experience.
So what are the best Nintendo Switch compatible gaming headsets to purchase in 2020? You can find out with our buying guide below:
Wired vs. Wireless Nintendo Switch Headsets
First, let’s talk about the differences between using a wired or wireless headset for the Nintendo Switch. The portable unit of the system has a 3.5 mm audio port but not an USB port. As a result, you can only used a wired headset. Fortunately, the Switch-compatible wireless headsets on our list all come with a 3.5 mm audio cable.
When docked, the Nintendo Switch has three USB ports that can be used with wireless headset that uses a USB dongle for wireless connection. Although the 3.5 mm audio port located on top of the portable unit can also be used for a wired headset connection, you will most likely have to sit very close to where your system is docked.
In conclusion, we recommend getting a supported wired-only gaming headset if you or a loved one play exclusively in the handheld mode of the Nintendo Switch. This is because wired headsets are cheaper when compared to their wireless counterparts.
For players that play exclusive in docked mode, or split time between the handheld and dock modes, the more versatile wireless gaming headsets are recommended.
Voice Chat on the Switch
Voice chatting on the Nintendo Switch is a little convoluted. In most cases, you will have to use the Nintendo Switch Online App on your smart phone in order to talk with others while playing online multiplayer. With that said, a select few games (with the most notable one being Fortnite) feature in-game chat support without use of the aforementioned application.
Nintendo Switch Compatible Wired Gaming Headsets
As we mentioned above, the cheaper priced Nintendo Switch wired headsets are ideal for those who exclusively play in the handheld mode of the system.
Astro Gaming The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild A10 Gaming Headset
The first affordable gaming headset we recommend checking out is Astro Gaming The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild A10. This officially licensed product is built for comfort (with its lightweight and ear cushions) as well as durability (with its aluminum-structured headband that is covered with rubber). In terms of performance the A10 is equipped with 40mm Neodymium Magnet Drivers as speakers in addition to using a flip-to-mute microphone.
If you are interested, you can purchase the Astro Gaming The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild A10 Gaming Headset with this link on Amazon.
HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Gaming Headset
Another relatively cheap, but still good in quality, Nintendo Switch headset is the HyperX Cloud Stinger. In terms of ergonomics, this product features an adjustable steel slider and ear cushions. Not to mention that the audio controls are conveniently placed on the audio cable. The HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Gaming Headset uses 40mm directional drivers for speakers that, when paired with the closed-cups, should bock out any external noises. Last but not least, it also comes with a flexible microphone that you can adjust to your liking.
The HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Gaming Headset is available for purchase here.
Turtle Beach Stealth 200 Gaming Headset
Released in 2018, the Turtle Beach Stealth 200 is another great low budget headset. This product is equipped with 40mm over-ear speakers that is capable of providing bass boost as well as a battery-powered amplifier that will further beef up the audio quality. The microphone, which can be flip up to mute, is highly sensitive so that it can pick up your voice in a crystal clear manner. Last but not least, the headband has been reinforced with metal, making the 200 hard to break.
You can buy the Turtle Beach Stealth 200 Gaming Headset via this page.
Nintendo Switch Compatible Wireless Gaming Headsets
As we stated before, Nintendo Switch wireless headsets (although more expensive) provide more versatility as you can use the during both handheld and dock modes when compared to its wired counterparts.
PlayStation Gold and Platinum Gaming Headsets
Surprisingly enough, the PlayStation Wireless Headsets are compatible with the Nintendo Switch. The New PlayStation Gold is equipped with 40mm speakers while the PlayStation Platinum uses 50mm speakers. Both are built with an expanded headband, which is great for comfort when playing for long periods. Furthermore, it also features two hidden mics with noise cancellation. Of course, the main reason to get these is that, in addition to the Nintendo Switch, you can also uses these on your PlayStation 4 (and take advantage of the PS4-only 3D Audio and 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound features).
You can purchase the two with the following links: New PlayStation Gold and Playstation Platinum.
Turtle Beach Stealth 600 and 700 Wireless Gaming Headsets
The Turtle Beach Stealth 600 and 700 are also great Nintendo Switch wireless gaming headsets. Both of these products are installed with 50mm neodymium magnet speakers that use Superhuman Hearing, a feature that will let you hear the most subtle of noises in videogames. The two products also ultize a omni-directional microphone with flip-to-mute and variable mic monitoring features (the 700 also comes with active noise cancellation and dynamic chat boost). Last but not least, the dual-foam ear cushions are soft enough that even glasses wearers will feel comfortable during long play sessions.
You can buy the aforementioned Turtle Beach Stealth Headsets with the following pages: 600 and 700.
Turtle Beach Ear Force Elite 800 Wireless Gaming Headset
If money is not an issue, then Switch owners might also want to take a look at the compatible Turtle Beach Ear Force Elite 800. This wireless gaming headset uses 50mm speakers and features Superhuman Hearing. The hidden boom-less microphone comes equipped with active noise cancellation, dynamic chat boost and mic monitoring features as well. For comfort, the memory foam ear cubs are bonded with leather, making it comfy for gamers (including those who wear glasses) for extended playing sessions. Last but not least, the 800 comes with a magnetic charging stand for easy storage and recharging.
You can purchase the Turtle Beach Ear Force Elite 800, which is primarily a PS4 headset, with this link.
You can also check out our buyer’s guides for other Switch accessories below: