Astro's A10 gaming headset review: A win for your ears — and your wallet

Budget headset options often make compromises in all the wrong places, but that isn't true of Astro's A10 gear.

Astro A10 Headset
(Image: © Jez Corden | Windows Central)

There are plenty of budget headset options on the market, but they often make unfortunate compromises. Thankfully, Astro's excellent A10 headset bucks the trend with a product that feels well-constructed and durable, with audio quality that punches well above its price point of $60.

What you'll love about the Astro A10

Astro A10

Astro A10 (Image credit: Windows Central)

Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the Astro A10 headset, which clocks in at just $60 for the headset alone, is that it features similar speaker quality to those found on the Astro A50s, with the same frequency range and same 40mm magnets. The omission of Dolby 7.1, of course, impacts the overall soundscape, but the first thing I noticed when using this headset is how great it sounds. I was wholly expecting far worse for this price.

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CategorySpec
Frequency response20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
Weight346 grams
Connection3.5mm / MixAmp M60 controller adapter
Speakers40mm Neodymium
Price$59.99 / $99.99 with MixAmp M60

This is one of the best-sounding headsets I've ever used at this price. It is distortion-free even at the highest volumes, with clear accentuation across the entire spectrum. Punchy bass meets crisp highs, and while I don't think Astro headsets sound as rich as some other brands out there, that might be more of a personal preference. You won't be disappointed with the sound quality offered by the A10.

If you pick up the MixAmp M60 alongside it, you'll be adding in some soft, but capable mic monitoring support, as well as handy controls right at your fingertips. You'll be able to mute your mic, adjust the balance between game chat and voice, and crank the volume really easily. Whether you're using the amp or not, the A10 packs an impeccable voice chat experience. I've used it across Xbox Live and other platforms and received compliments from listeners on the quality, and the mic also features flip-to-mute functionality too.

Overall, the A10 is well-constructed, too, using flexible steel inside the headband for added strength. It is comfortable on the ears, with fabric over-ear cups and generous cushioning, but it's not all good news.

What you might dislike about the Astro A10

Perhaps my biggest complaint about the A10 is that it's a little constrictive over time. The headband sits a little too tight across the top and can feel a tad uncomfortable due to the small amount of foam used on the upper strap.

The materials used on the ear cups seem to be one area of compromise. They feel thick and quite warm on your ear compared to cooler materials used in more expensive headsets.

Overall, there's very little to complain about.

Final thoughts Astro A10 gaming headset

The Astro A10 headset is a really great wired option for anyone looking to get quality audio on a budget. The sound quality is rock solid, the voice experience is perfect for Xbox party chat, and the M60 MixAmp adds extra controls and mic monitoring attached right on your controller.

While it is not the most comfortable headset I've ever used, the materials feel robust and reassuring, and the general quality should ensure your investment lasts a long time.

More: Best Xbox One Headsets

Jez Corden
Co-Managing Editor

Jez Corden is a Managing Editor at Windows Central, focusing primarily on all things Xbox and gaming. Jez is known for breaking exclusive news and analysis as relates to the Microsoft ecosystem while being powered by tea. Follow on Twitter @JezCorden and listen to his XB2 Podcast, all about, you guessed it, Xbox!