Xbox 360 Headsets

A proper gaming headset can make all the difference when it comes to a stellar gaming experience. Not only do many gaming headsets offer superior sound quality compared to the average television, but they also allow for in-game chat via the headset mic. With so many games modern games built around communication and headset technology, an Xbox 360 headset truly is a must-have accessory for the Xbox 360 console.

Xbox 360 headset benefits

A voice chat-capable Xbox 360 headset is indispensable in the modern age of gaming. From co-operative games to multiplayer shooters and everything in between, many of the most popular games in the Xbox 360 library depend on in-game chat via Xbox Live to really thrive and succeed. Being able to communicate with your team (not to mention talking a little trash with the opposition) truly is the foundation of so many of the biggest Xbox franchises, including Halo, Call of Duty, and Gears of War, just to name a few.

Xbox 360 headsets can also be indispensable to gamers with shared accommodations, or for parents who want to reduce the noise from their children’s games. Headsets can provide privacy and immersion for the user as well as peace of mind to those around them.

Xbox 360 wired headset connection via controller

Many wired Xbox 360 headsets connect via a 2.5mm headset jack at the base of the Xbox 360 controller. This is smaller than the standard size of 3.5mm for most headset jacks however, meaning that typically only headsets branded for the Xbox 360 are compatible. Most generic headset devices or those branded for other gaming consoles will not be compatible with the Xbox 360 controller headset jack.

Furthermore, headsets connected via the Xbox 360 wireless controller will only be capable of carrying chat audio. In-game audio and music does not pass through the wireless controller port.

Xbox 360 wireless/wired via USB headset connection

If you are looking for an Xbox 360 headset capable of both chat and game audio, you’ll either need a wired headset that connects to the Xbox 360 console itself via USB, or alternatively a wireless headset. When choosing a wired USB headset it is important to consider the length of the headset cable in relation to your gaming setup, as the USB end typically must be plugged in to the Xbox 360 console itself.

Wireless headsets can alleviate this issue however. Most Xbox 360-compatible wireless headsets feature a wireless dongle that connects via USB to the Xbox 360 console. This offers a much wider range of use and can reduce the amount of clutter and wires taking up space in your gaming area. Do note however that the Xbox 360 console does not support Bluetooth, and therefore headsets that rely solely on Bluetooth connectivity will also not be compatible.

Xbox 360 headsets compatible with Xbox One

Whether or not your Xbox 360 headset is compatible with the Xbox One console can depend on a number of factors, including which model of Xbox One controller you have. Any Xbox 360 headset that utilizes the 2.5mm headset jack will require at least a 2.5mm – 3.5mm headset adapter to work with Xbox One. However, the original launch Xbox One controller does not even feature a 3.5mm headset jack (it was added in a later revision), and therefore requires another unique adapter to allow for a 3.5mm headset jack connection.

On top of this, not every headset branded for the Xbox 360 has hardware capable of functioning on Xbox One. Compatibility varies from headset to headset, so in most cases you may likely have to research your specific Xbox 360 headset to find out if it works with the Xbox One console.