I love the Arctis Nova Elite, but man, it's really tough to recommend a $650 headset. What if there was a cheaper option?

Say hi to the Arctis Nova Pro Omni, the second iteration of the Arctis Nova Pro of yesteryear. And yes, it's still quite pricy at $399, but it's also the last headset you might need to buy.

It's not only compatible with literally every platform; it's simultaneously compatible with every platform. You can mix audio from PC, Xbox, mobile, and other platforms through its powerful 3-port DAC, complete with Bluetooth LE now with Hi-Res certification and boosted ANC.

Its design is subtle enough to be used out and about, its powerful enough for music, movies, and communications. It's cinematic enough for single-player games and smart enough for tactical audio in multiplayer titles.

It's simply a fantastic headset and joins the Elite in becoming one of my daily drivers. The Arctis Nova Pro range continues to be the best Xbox headset overall, especially for multiplatform gamers.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni: Specs and price

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni is mostly comparable to the Arctis Nova Pro, although it brings in some bells and whistles from its most pricy "Elite" cousin.

It drops the metal accents and carbon fiber drivers for more "affordable" plastics and more traditional neodymium magnets, but it brings across Hi-Res certification, a triple-input DAC, boosted ANC, and various other enhancements.

It beats the Nova Pro in every way, and although there's a fire sale for the Nova Pro going on right now, it's only slightly more expensive with regard to RRP.

$399 is still a fairly big ask for a headset, though. You're going to need and want all of its features, but if you are someone who will make use of them (like me), it's arguably the best multi-platform headset on the market right now.

Read on to find out why.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni: Comfort and design

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni looks similar to its regular Pro and Elite counterparts, sporting an all-black design with dark grey accents, bright SteelSeries logos on the speaker plates, and a retractable mic.

The headband itself is metal, with a floating strap keeping the pressure off your skull. It has adjustable connectors for the cups for different-sized heads and swivel pivots for alignment.

The microphone is retractable and has a red mute light indicator. The on-ear controls are well constructed, with high-quality materials and a high degree of design variance and shapes.

Why?

It makes it easier to figure out which button you're reaching for if they all feel different. You can adjust ANC, power, muting, Bluetooth pairing, and volume without reaching for the digital audio controller, but when you need to get more complex, it's right there for you.

The Digital Audio Controller is an impressive piece of kit, with three ports for USB-C devices, as well as a 3.5mm audio port on top. With this, you can connect your PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, or PlayStation simultaneously and switch between them on the fly.

You can mix sound sources between them as well, using the volume dial and visual cues on the DAC to shift volume balance between your PC and Xbox, as well as controlling chat volume and game sound on the fly.

It's incredibly well-designed and deserves some kind of legitimate award beyond our meager Windows Central Award.

The cushions on the earcups themselves are thick and comfortable, with an almost delicate-feeling texture on the leatherette finish. You'll play for hours and not even notice you're wearing them.

I'm also grateful that the Omni didn't make the mistake of its predecessor, which had large protruding microphone modules inside the earcups for the ANC. For many, this position proved incredibly uncomfortable. The Omni has no such problem.

The only complaint I could potentially leverage here is that they quite easily slip off if you lean forward or backward or get too "animated" while streaming or raging at your teammates. This trade-off means that it's not very tight at all while in use, so it delivers maximum comfort. But if you're traveling with them as a Bluetooth lifestyle kind of headset, you might need to take some extra care so they don't slip off your head.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni: Audio and features

The sound quality on the Arctis Nova Pro Omni is absolutely immaculate and something I can't recommend enough.

While not offering the detailing of the more expensive Elite, the Pro Omni remains at the top of its game for delivering audio that can be as cinematic as it can be tactical. Using Dolby Atmos or Windows Sonic, you'll get an exemplary surround sound experience, elevated further if you drop in SteelSeries' in-game profiles tuned for specific games.

The app indeed is quite powerful on that front. There's a variety of audio profiles for dozens of games, as well as some default profiles for EQ profiles like bass boost and so on. Whether you're trying to boost your tactical awareness in games like Overwatch or Arc Raiders or immerse yourself in a single-player cinematic experience like Death Stranding 2, you absolutely will not be disappointed with the sound quality here.

I do wish there were more options to control the profiles on the included DAC, admittedly, but it's not a huge deal. You can configure them via either Bluetooth on your phone or a connected Windows PC, as well as control additional settings like microphone sidetone, EQs, and so on.

Speaking of the microphone, it's another retractable option from SteelSeries, easy to tuck away into the headset itself if you're planning to go fully mobile. It has a red LED light for mute indication and offers pretty decent quality for a headset microphone. Albeit a little tinny-sounding. You probably won't create content with this headset, but it's more than adequate for gaming comms.

As features go, there's not much competition out there, save for other Arctis Nova products. The fact that you can simultaneously mix sound from two separate USB-C sources on top of an additional Bluetooth LE source is fantastic for content creators and podcasters, as well as those who are heavy into multi-platform gaming.

Indeed, if you only play on one or two systems at a time, there are arguably far more affordable options out there for you. But if you want a headset that can do absolutely everything, there's no real competition here.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni: Competition

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni sits in a category alongside very few peers. Only the Astro A50 series has some similar options for multi-platform capabilities, but they're nowhere near as open as what SteelSeries is offering.

I've been using the Astro A50 2015 model for over ten years purely for its optical audio cable. Being able to mix Xbox sound via my TV's optical port and PC audio via the Astro A50's USB was a functionality that I haven't found reliably anywhere else, until the Arctis Nova line. Sure, I could use Bluetooth, but it's always a bit susceptible to interference, and that's a problem when I'm podcasting or streaming.

Indeed, the fact that you can simultaneously mix two USB-C sources is, as far as I can tell, something utterly unique to the Nova Pro range. Other multi-platform headsets, like the more recent Astro A50, only let you do one USB-C source at a time; even if you can plug them in simultaneously, they're still bound to a switch.

The ability to mix three seems to be unique to the Elite and Pro Omni on top. As more and more of us play across multiple systems and storefronts, I suspect this type of modality will become increasingly popular.

The audio quality is not quite up there with the Elite as you'd expect given the price delta, but the extra features you're getting over its predecessor and competitors like the Astro A50 make it more than worth it in my view. I am someone who will frequently use these across Bluetooth, USB-C on Xbox, and USB-C on PC, though.

If you're not planning to use them to their full multi-platform potential, a cheaper, more focused headset is probably going to be a better option. If you were playing on just Xbox by itself and wanted to save a heap of cash for something with comparable audio, for example, I'd recommend the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen-3 for the vast majority of people.

But for multi-platform gamers, this is the best option for the vast majority of people. If you want to go super-premium, consider the Arctis Nova Elite as well.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni: Should you buy it?

Even though it's far more affordable than the Arctis Nova Elite, it's still a pricy pick at $399 RRP. The savings on the materials and the like aren't as big a compromise as you might expect, and the audio delivery is still very impressive despite losing the carbon fiber drivers of its $649 cousin.

But you're really going to want to use all of those features to justify the price. If you're someone who typically plays only on one platform, you could pick up an alternative headset that does away with the DAC and the multi-capable platforms and opt for something more affordable. If you do play on multiple platforms, however, there is frankly no better option right now. SteelSeries has a banger here.

✅You should buy this if ...

• You frequently play across different console and PC platforms.
• You want a headset that can be reliably used for lifestyle scenarios, i.e. music in public, etc.
• You don't mind spending the big $$ for big features.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You primarily play on only one platform.
• You're more of a sofa gamer, since the DAC will be out of reach.
• You don't really need Bluetooth or lifestyle capabilities.

For sure, it always feels a bit iffy recommending a headset that costs as much as a console itself, but this is something you can happily use as a lifestyle headset on top. It's far more than a simple "gaming headset," as a result, and the price reflects that multi-modality.

If you don't need all that capability in a single product, then definitely look elsewhere, like our best Xbox headsets list, for example. But, if you frequently find yourself annoyed manually switching between audio devices across Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, PC, or even the Xbox Ally range ... this is your best-value option right now by a country mile.

Congrats to SteelSeries; you finally helped me retire my battered 2015 Astro A50 with the optical audio port!

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SteelSeries celebrates 25 years of creating gaming peripherals by announcing a brand-new wireless headset designed with audiophiles in mind. The newly unveiled Arctis Nova Pro Omni gaming headset from SteelSeries checks all the boxes for Hi-Res fidelity in a wireless headset that works across multiple platforms — including Xbox, PC, and handhelds.

The current gaming landscape is in a shift, as younger generations leave behind stationary gaming desktop rigs and consoles for more portable gaming devices like the Steam Deck, ROG Ally X, Nintendo Switch, or even just their smartphones.

Gaming on mobile and handheld devices has become a more premium experience as the platforms evolve, but options for audio solutions that can keep up with the more immersive and intensive gaming experiences have been lacking.

SteelSeries aims to fill that gap with the Arctis Nova Pro Omni, a more premium headset engineered to be platform agnostic. Whether your gaming sessions are on-the-go with your smartphone or at home with your custom gaming desktop and favorite console, the Arctis Nova Pro Omni provides Hi-Res fidelity sound through 96kHz/24-bit wireless audio connected to up to five devices via 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connectivity.

Omniplay, SteelSeries' interconnectivity feature, allows you to simultaneously connect, mix, and play with multiple devices. Connect up to three devices via wired USB-C to the base station and up to five total, then hop into a Discord call on your PC while hearing game audio from your Xbox while watching TikTok on your smartphone. It's a multitasker's dream come true.

Hi-Res Wireless Certified by the Japanese Audio Society, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni features custom-designed Hi-Res Neodymium Magnetic 40mm drivers with an extended frequency range of 10Hz up to 40kHz.

Neodymium magnetic drivers utilize some of the strongest magnets available to offer unmatched sound quality that is more accurate and detailed, and the Arctis Nova Pro Omni drivers are custom-tuned with 360 Spatial Audio — perfect for helping you hear that enemy that's creeping up behind you.

SteelSeries pairs the neodymium magnetic drivers of the Arctis Nova Pro Omni with additional features like improved Active Noise Cancellation capable of tuning out 88% of background noise, improving your overall experience by keeping you more immersed in the game.

Noise disruption extends beyond just the audio output of the Arctis Nova Pro Omni. SteelSeries' premium new headset features the new ClearCast Pro omnidirectional microphone. The microphone has undergone an upgrade from other Arctis headsets and now features an advanced chipset that delivers twice the bandwidth of other gaming headsets.

And, of course, it's not tech unless it includes some sort of AI functionality. SteelSeries has embedded the tech into the microphone via algorithms intended to reduce background noise by 96%, improving the broadcast quality of the built-in microphone without the need for additional software.

The Arctis Nova Pro Omni's mixed audio functionality also works with the microphone, allowing you to use the mic simultaneously across game chat and Discord while the Smart Switch capability allows the microphone to switch to your smartphone when you take an incoming call. To switch back to your game chats, simply end the call and the active chat will change dynamically without the need for any additional input from you.

For maximum control over audio input and output with the Arctis Nova Pro Omni, the SteelSeries Arctis app can be used on your favorite mobile device to dynamically adjust presets in real-time without the need to leave your game or call. The Arctis app features over 200 game-specific audio profiles tailored by audio engineers, esports pros, and game developers to give you the best sound and the most immersion possible. Players on PC can also utilize the SteelSeries Sonar App to adjust the Arctis Nova Pro Omni.

The Arctis Nova Pro Omni from SteelSeries is available now in three colorways: Midnight Blue, White, and Graphite. Audiophile-quality sound and multiplatform compatibility does come with a premium price tag, as the Arctis Nova Pro Omni will cost $399.99.

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The ASUS ROG Kithara doesn't look like any other gaming headset I've tried in the past, and is essentially an audiophile-style open-back set of headphones that happen to also ship with a boom mic and a pile of cables so you can use it for gaming. The vented design reminded me straight away of the rear of the Xbox Ally X, which is pretty neat.

Going into this review, I was pretty sceptical, it looks awkward on my head for one, and is also very expensive at $299.99 for something that is wired only. That said, after using it for a few weeks now, it's grown on me immensely, and its unique style only adds to the character for me. Despite my initial qualms on it being so different from my usual choices, I've ended up loving it.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by ASUS. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

ASUS ROG Kithara Headset: Specs and pricing

The main selling point here is the 100mm planar magnetic drivers, developed in partnership with HiFiMan. These are much larger and more expensive to make than the dynamic drivers used in most gaming headsets.

It’s a fully wired, dual-entry design headset, which in normal talk means a cable for each side. The unboxing itself is a bit of a cable fest with all the optional accessories and attachments. It was a bit like when I unboxed my wireless vacuum and all its heads for different floor types. You get a boom mic cable (with volume/mute toggles), a standard headphone cable, and every connector you could possibly need, and some I didn't even know still existed (3.5mm, 6.3mm, 4.4mm, and USB-C). You can hook it up to basically anything that fits the connectors so PC, console, or DAC, without having to mess around with any software. It's not advertised as Xbox-compatible, but it will work if you plug the 3.5mm jack into your controller.

It isn't cheap, though $299.99 puts this squarely in the premium bracket. For a wired headset, you’re paying a serious markup. It’s clearly aimed at competing with "real" studio headphones rather than the usual gaming stuff you see from this brand. In the United Kingdom, you can pick up the ROG Kithara for £284.99 at Scan.co.uk.

ASUS ROG Kithara Headset: Comfort and build quality

Build quality was impressive straight out the box. The frame feels solid and the hinges feel like they could take a few beatings at the bottom of my backpack (not that I'm putting that to the test). The headset feels closer to studio headphones than your average plastic gaming headsets.. In fact, my son, who likes to record audio for his music and acting project, is looking to swipe these away from me as they fit into his microphone perfectly with the generous bundle of attachments.

Although the Kithara is pretty damn big and weighs around 420 grams, I was surprised by how comfortable it actually is. I expected it to feel heavy and awkward, especially given how it looks on my head (see in slideshow above), but in practice it feels very well balanced and much lighter than I anticipated. I had no issues wearing it for long sessions, even if it did look comically large compared to my normal headsets.

The headband doesn't dig in at all, and since it’s an open-back design, my ears stayed way cooler than they do in standard closed-back sets. I normally wear the LucidSound LS50X, but I have to admit my ears usually get pretty stuffy in those after a while.

My only real gripe is that the earcups tend to slide down if I move around too much during a frantic game. I’m constantly nudging them back up, though that might just be a "me" problem. The men in my family tried them on and didn’t have any issues. It probably just comes down to how massive these things are relative to my head!

Two sets of ear pads are included in the box, including velour pads which feel cooler and softer over time, but they slightly reduce isolation and bass compared to the stock pads.

Overall, the Kithara is very well built and, despite my initial scepticism about its size and appearance, it turned out to be far more comfortable than I expected.

ASUS ROG Kithara Headset: Mic and audio quality

The detachable MEMS boom microphone is solid but I wouldn't say it is outstanding. As in, it is perfectly fine for gaming but if you stream or podcast you will want to stick with something entirely seperate. But yeah, this is a gaming headset remember.

Voice clarity is good, background noise is handled well, and it works perfectly fine for gaming chat, Discord and my work calls on Microsoft Teams. And its always fun to have something a bit different on when we are asked to turn our cameras on. People will still be able to tell that you are using a headset microphone when you talk through this but it is cleaner than what you usually get from most gaming headsets.

One concern with open-back headsets is whether game audio leaks back into the microphone. In my testing, this was not an issue and I did not experience any obvious audio bleed being picked up by the mic.

The audio performance is where the ROG Kithara clearly separates itself from normal gaming headsets. Before getting into sound quality, it is important to be clear about one thing. The Kithara does not offer virtual surround sound or any form of spatial audio processing. It is a purely passive stereo headset.
I had to go back to school for this review just to figure out what "open-back" actually meant. Basically, since the earcups are vented rather than sealed shut, the sound breathes (supposedly). Audiophiles love to rave about the "spacious soundstage" of open-back headsets. What this does mean, though, is you get zero privacy. I’m hearing everything happening in my house, and worse, everyone else can hear my music too. There’s no way I’m winning any cool points for my indie taste when everyone in the room can clearly hear I’m just blasting Taylor Swift again. Definitely don't be that person who wears these on a bus.

This is a selling point if you play in a quiet room and care about natural presentation and spatial depth. It won't be for you if you game in noisy environments or shared spaces around family. Personally, while I'm normally gaming around other people I do actually want to be able to hear my family so this doesn't bother me at all. If you prefer to drown out the sound of petulant children, you may want to look elsewhere.

In use with actual games, the open back and flouncy-sounding "airy soundstage" actually makes a bit more sense. So environmental sounds, gunshots etc are easy to separate. Positioning is generally easy to follow in shooters, and there's no echoey effect from the cups.

Sound-wise, I noticed this headset was substantially less 'bass-heavy' than other gaming headsets, and it's up to your preference whether you like that.

Volume was also dependent on my connection. Bear in mind, I'm writing this as a millennial who spent most of their teens destroying their eardrums with the highest possible iPod volume. Plugged directly into my PC, the headset gets reasonably loud but can feel slightly limited at the top end. Using the included USB-C adapter makes it noticeably louder when it benefits from the extra power delivery (up to 90W), as it did when I plugged it into my phone. No amount of finicking around with Windows 11 audio settings changes this otherwise. So your experience may vary depending on what you plug it into.

ASUS ROG Kithara Headset: Should you buy it?

The ROG Kithara is a niche headset that puts sound quality ahead of features. It makes sense for a very specific type of user.

✅ You should buy this if...

• you mainly play in a quiet room and do not need isolation
• you care more about sound quality and separation than surround sound features
• you want one headset that works well for gaming, music and general listening

❌ You should not buy this if...

• you want wireless, noise cancelling, RGB lighting or software features
• you rely heavily on virtual surround or spatial audio modes
• you play in noisy or shared environments

The ASUS ROG Kithara feels less like a gaming headset and more like a pair of high-end studio headphones that just happened to have a mic slapped on at the end. I was pretty skeptical at first, that price tag is hard to ignore, especially for something with a wire. But once I actually put it on, it was way more comfortable and easy to deal with than the size suggests.

It’s not trying to win a feature war with brands like SteelSeries or Turtle Beach. You aren't getting a million buttons or gimmicks here; you’re paying for the sound quality and that open-back feel. If you’re hunting for that specific "audiophile" sound but don't want the hassle of a separate desktop mic and headphone setup, the Kithara is basically in a league of its own.

At $149.99, the Corsair Void V2 Max Wireless sits firmly in the premium headset category. It supports Xbox Wireless alongside Bluetooth, includes Dolby Atmos, and promises close to 70 hours of battery life, making it a compelling option on paper.

Corsair is a brand I have consistently trusted in the past, which made my experience with this headset more frustrating than expected. While there is a lot to like here, particularly in terms of comfort and audio quality, several usability issues and a game-specific problem prevented it from being the straightforward recommendation I hoped for.

I tested the Xbox edition of the Void V2 Max Wireless across Xbox Series X, Series S, and PC. While performance was largely consistent, microphone reliability in ARC Raiders became a recurring problem, shaping my overall impression. Outside of that one title, the headset performs well, which makes the issues harder to ignore rather than easier to excuse.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Corsair. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Corsair Void V2 Max Wireless: Specs and pricing

To Corsair’s credit, the specs on offer here are genuinely impressive. For the price, you are at least getting a strong package on paper, which makes it worth taking a closer look at what is actually under the hood.

Despite my issues, there are genuine reasons someone might be tempted to buy this headset, particularly if it is discounted. In daily use, I was able to walk around my entire house from top to bottom, make a cup of tea, and still chat with friends on Discord via Xbox without any dropouts.

Dual audio playback is another standout feature. Being able to hear audio from Xbox and Bluetooth devices simultaneously is genuinely useful and something I found myself using more often than expected.

That said, all customisation and firmware updates are locked behind Corsair’s iCUE software on PC. There is no mobile app, which feels like a missed opportunity, especially for an Xbox-focused headset at this price.

That RGB lighting also serves a practical purpose, as it indicates which mode the headset is currently using. Double-pressing the power button switches it into Xbox mode, which is how I mainly used the headset outside of some sessions on PC.

I cannot speak to how the headset performs on PlayStation, as I have the Xbox edition, but Corsair’s quick start guide does outline the required steps clearly for those platforms.

Corsair Void V2 Max Wireless: Comfort and build quality

This is easily one of the most comfortable headsets I have used. Coming from the Razer Kraken, which is already fairly comfortable, the Void V2 Max Wireless felt noticeably better during long sessions.

As someone who wears glasses while working and gaming, comfort matters a lot. The ear cups and headband never pressed my glasses into the side of my face, even after extended use.

Build quality is fairly unassuming. Nothing feels what I'd consider premium, but it feels good enough for the price. The headset is lightweight, adjusts easily, and accommodates a wide range of head sizes without feeling awkward.

The main concern here is the controls. The buttons, and especially the volume mixer, feel finicky in use and do not inspire much confidence in long-term durability.

Corsair Void V2 Max Wireless: Mic and audio quality

The Void V2 Max Wireless for Xbox does offer a competent microphone, including the ability to mute it by lifting the mic from the on position to off. That said, I never found it more impressive than the microphone on my Razer Kraken, and none of my friends noticed a meaningful improvement either, and you can hear for yourself here:

Where I did notice a clear step up was in audio quality. The 50mm drivers performed well in ARC Raiders, making it easy to pick out enemies and environmental threats to the point where friends often relied on my callouts in tense situations.

Using the volume mixer, however, was often frustrating. Pressing the button regularly left me unsure what I was actually adjusting, and on several occasions, my audio stopped working entirely, forcing me to power the headset off and back on again.

Despite these frustrations, the raw audio quality itself is genuinely strong and one of the headset’s highlights. Better refinement around audio mixing would have gone a long way, and the fact that it disables Xbox’s own audio mixing options in party chat and Discord remains a significant drawback for me.

Not to drive the ARC Raiders point home too much, but on the one occasion the microphone did function in-game, all game audio became muted, leaving me unable to hear anything. While this may be an issue specific to the game itself, it is still worth mentioning given how prominent the game is right now.

Corsair Void V2 Max Wireless: Should you buy it?

✅ You should buy this if...

• Want a headset that sounds, feels, and looks great
• Plan to use it across multiple devices, not just for gaming
• Want great battery life
• Need dual audio playback

❌ You should not buy this if...

• Dislike RGB lighting, even when it is subtle
• Need active noise cancellation
• Want to play ARC Raiders on Xbox
• Do not have a PC to customise features

I do plan to continue using the Corsair Void V2 Max Wireless as my daily headset, if only because the alternative is my partner’s pink Razer Kraken. That said, I still cannot rely on it all the time, which remains a major sticking point for me.

One feature I have grown to really appreciate is dual audio playback. Being able to hear audio from both the Xbox and a Bluetooth device at the same time is genuinely useful, and it is something I have ended up using more often than expected, sometimes even by accident when both my PC and Xbox were on. It is a feature I would genuinely miss if I had to go without it.

If ARC Raiders is not a game you play or plan to play on Xbox, this is otherwise a fairly solid headset. Its unassuming design, strong comfort, and broad feature set are appealing, but at $149.99, the price still feels steep given the issues I ran into.

Even if some of those problems stem from the game itself rather than the headset, the volume mixer feels flimsy at times, and the controls are awkward to use. On top of that, updating and customising the headset is locked to Corsair’s iCUE software on PC, meaning Xbox-only users are locked out of firmware updates and certain features entirely.

Taken together, these frustrations make it difficult for me to fully recommend the headset at full price. Many users online appear to have run into similar issues, which is especially disappointing given just how comfortable the headset is. If you can find it discounted and do not plan to play ARC Raiders on Xbox, it may still be worth picking up compared to some of the best Xbox headsets out there.

I've used a lot of headphones and gaming headsets, and few have been able to truly challenge Audeze when it comes to sheer audio quality.

Now, at CES 2026, the high-end audio brand has returned with the Audeze Maxwell 2, an all-new, totally redesigned wireless gaming headset packing some serious upgrades. I'm actually at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, but before I flew out, I had a brief opportunity to test the new headset.

I'll need to use this headset a lot more after I return home to really know if Audeze struck gold with its Maxwell follow-up, but I'm not harboring any doubts. The first-generation Maxwell wasn't perfect, but it has held on to its spot on our list of the best Xbox headsets for over two years — and its successor promises to be better across the board.

Better audio, greater comfort, slimmer design

Audeze is the de facto champion of planar magnetic technology in headphones, pushing forward with new innovations and evolutions. Planar magnetic drivers are larger, heavier, and more expensive than the dynamic drivers in most headphones, but they're also more precise and responsive.

Planar magnetic expertise has earned Audeze a reputation for phenomenal audio quality, and that's exactly why I praised the original Audeze Maxwell in my 4/5-star review. So, it shouldn't come as a surprise that the Maxwell 2 refines what its predecessor started, with massive 90mm planar magnetic drivers loaded with Audeze's various proprietary technologies.

This time, that also includes SLAM, a newer tech that I first experienced with my 4.5/5-star Audeze LCD-S20 review. You can check that review out for more information, but the idea is that the Maxwell 2 should have fuller, deeper low-end than the original Maxwell. The Maxwell 2 boasts twice the microphone bandwidth (48KHz), too, on top of brand-new FILTER AI background noise cancellation.

The most immediately obvious improvement, though, is in the design. While not as luxurious as Audeze's highest-end headphones, the Maxwell 2 is clearly premium, with a slimmer and lighter design, a more breathable and comfortable suspension strap, and magnetically attached earcups for easy replacements.

I could tell the moment I put the Maxwell 2 on my head — this is a huge upgrade in comfort, which bodes well for longer gaming sessions. Audeze didn't compromise on endurance, either, with the same 80-hour battery rating. We still get 2.4GHz wireless for Windows PC, Xbox, and PlayStation, and Bluetooth for Nintendo Switch and mobile devices.

Wherever you use the Audeze Maxwell 2, you'll be able to take advantage of the new Audeze app for on-the-fly controls and adjustability, showing Audeze is committed to making the Maxwell 2 a far better all-around headset. I'm honestly really excited to dive more into this headset, but you don't have to wait.

The Audeze Maxwell 2 is already available for $349, or $329 if you don't need Xbox Wireless support. I also know Audeze is already planning some special edition drops, but we'll have to wait longer to see those.

When choosing a gaming headset, just how important is audio quality to you? Will the Audeze Maxwell 2 become your next gaming headset? Let us know in the comments below!

The search never ends for PC gamers looking to snag the best gaming headsets with crisp sound quality for chatting online and immersing themselves in the rich audio design of their favorite titles.

However, we have found a gem of a headset that may be what they're looking for; the 2023 edition of the critically-acclaimed Razer BlackShark V2 Pro, now on offer for $129.99 at Amazon instead of its typical MSRP of $199.99.

Additionally, the Xbox version of the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro's early Black Friday discount of $119.99 at Amazon is still live.

Why should you buy the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro?

One of our lead experts in reviewing gaming headsets, Zachary Boddy, lavished praise on the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro, giving it a perfect 5/5-star review.

I don't blame him, as this headset is indeed one of the best PC gaming headsets out there.

The sound quality of the earphones is excellent and crisp, thanks to this headset's Razer TriForce Titanium 50mm sound drivers with a frequency response that can go from 12Hz to 28,000Hz.

The same goes for its detachable mic with a sampling rate of 32,000Hz and a frequency response rate between 100Hz to 10,000Hz. So whether you're chatting to a friend online or taking in a game's immersive soundtrack and ambience, your auditory experiences are guaranteed to get a cinema-level upgrade.

Other features include 70 hours of battery life, THX Spatial Audio, Bluetooth connectivity, an ergonomic design that makes the headset comfortable to wear for hours without straining the user, and customizable sound profiles that can be switched at the press of its Smart Switch button.

Aside from not being capable of multi-source audio mixing between Bluetooth and HyperSpeed Wireless modes, the only drawback is that this headset doesn't work on Xbox consoles.

Thankfully, Razer has made another version of the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro for Xbox that also works on PC. It shares the same high-quality sound and engineering as the regular version, and is also having an early Black Friday sale for $119.99 at Amazon.

However, if you want the regular version to use with PC, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch hardware, then now's one of the best times to get one, as it's currently on a limited-time 35% discount for $129.99 at Amazon.

FAQ

$599.99. That's how much the latest effort from SteelSeries will set you back. And it's a price tag that's impossible to overlook.

This is the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite. It joins other products that share the "Elite" branding, such as the Xbox Elite Controller, targeting users on the high end. Gamers span all sorts of purchasing power capabilities these days, and companies know it. For those with cash to burn, building products that can seemingly do everything while also sporting the most premium materials is a segment manufacturers are increasingly targeting. The Arctis Nova Elite unashamedly joins that market as the best Xbox headset for pure, decadent luxury.

As a humble games blogger, I'm not sure there's a universe where I would (or even could) ever pay $599.99 for a headset, practically under any circumstances — but if I could afford it, it would absolutely be for this headset. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite is undeniably the most luxurious gaming headset I have ever used, whose features and quality inarguably justify that sky-high price tag. But you're going to be a very specific type of gamer to want to buy in here.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by SteelSeries. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite: Price & Specs

You know the price already. It's a beefy boy, but what about the specs to match it? Let's take a look.

This is premium from every angle you look. This is a hi-res certified headset, which means it's verified by independent organizations as being able to deliver sound beyond a typical CD. This is 24-bit/96 kHz signals specifically, and to do that, requires a higher grade of engineering and materials.

As far as I could tell, this is the first wireless gaming headset to achieve this standard — a level typically reserved for audiophile products and studio-grade gear.

It's not all about hi-res certification here, though. While premium materials definitely had a role to play here, this headset also boasts some of the most impressive versatility we've ever seen in a gaming headset.

The Arctis Nova Elite's powerful digital audio controller looks unassuming on your desk, but it boasts monstrous capabilities. It's your platform for hot-swapping and keeping batteries charged up (with each of the 2 included cells offering up to 30 hours of playback). It also lets you mix audio signals from four different sources: two USB-C, one 3.5mm line-in, and one Bluetooth 5.3. This is the first headset that has offered the ability to mix Xbox, PS5, and PC audio simultaneously since SPDIF fell out of fashion as a result — something game streamers using consoles and capture cards might appreciate.

Even the packaging is premium here, as SteelSeries guns for the audiophile and enthusiast gamer segment. It's as expensive as some Xbox Series X and PS5 models at $599.99, and it seems to have good stock levels across the board as of writing.

Does the Arctis Nova Elite stick the landing? Absolutely yes, in (almost) every regard. And luckily, the parts that could be improved are software in nature and can be updated. Here are more details on the experience.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite: Comfort & Design

When I opened up the package to this headset, I immediately knew I was about to experience something special. This is by far and away the most expensive headset I have ever reviewed, and its premium presentation will immediately command your attention.

The packaging is accented in gold and comes in a sort of monolithic box as if it had descended from another planet. The Arctis Nova Elite sports a familiar design if you've seen the predecessor Arctis Nova Pro (my previous primary driver here), complete with a retractable mic, detachable magnetic side-plates housing USB-C connectivity and the battery bay, as well as a floating headband. What sets it apart is that every aspect of it is dialled up to 11.

The dials, buttons, and materials all sport a very luxurious feel. Various parts of the headset that were plastic in other models are now metal, including the textured volume dial and adjustable hinges on either side. The leatherette earcups feel incredibly comfortable, and dare I say, dreamy on the skin, easily defeating fabric-clad rivals. The floating headband is also an easy win for long, long periods of use, and retains SteelSeries' tradition for cranial comfort.

One weird downside of the floating headband is that it's easy to rock the headset off your head if you get a little too immersed in the music (and immersed you will, the sound delivery on this headset is immense). It's designed for long gaming sessions at the end of the day, but it's worth being aware of.

Returning is the retractable boom microphone, which now cleverly has per-configuration settings. When you retract it, you can still use it for calls, and it'll beamform your voice similar to earbuds. When you extend it, it functions as a high-quality mic for comms and potentially even light content creation. I'm not sure I'd record a full YouTube video on this mic over my Elgato XLR, but it's up there with the best gaming headset mics I've used.

Indeed, the ability to retract the mic and fall back to Bluetooth 5.3 gives you lifestyle usability here that many other "gaming" headsets don't really offer. The subtle design on the black model means it won't look out of place when used during commutes or on a plane, and there's even an alternative colorway that fits a more Apple-style grey fashion aesthetic, too.

The only criticism I'd offer here from a "lifestyle" perspective is that, perhaps, the logos are a bit "loud" for this type of use case. There are after-market sideplates you can buy that look a little more subtle, though, or even louder ones if you prefer. The World of Warcraft Horde ones are out of stock, though (dang.) Also, the soft-touch plastics SteelSeries opted for here tend to be fingerprint magnets too, which isn't a big deal, but on the black model, it can be pretty noticeable.

When you're knee deep in corpses in a Battlefield 6 map or rocking to Nirvana while writing a gaming headset review on the internet (meta), you're likely not thinking about the side plates or fingerprints, though. How's the audio? It's fan-expletive-tastic.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite: Audio & Features

Let's not beat around the bush here. The Arctis Nova Elite is the most immaculate audio experience I've had in over a decade of gaming headset reviews. I put them directly head-to-head with a family member's studio-grade Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO and was quite stunned to find the experience pleasantly comparable.

This is a gaming headset, but I've found myself using it primarily for music over the past few weeks. Rediscovering new details in soundscapes I know very well has been incredibly fun with this product, as someone who generally uses earbuds or other random gaming headsets for music typically.

There's no distortion, no glitching, no artifacting, no muddiness, no range is overbearing or under-represented — it's simply hard to go back to anything else after using these. ANC helps eliminate background noise on planes, trains, and buses, and easy on-ear controls and a solid mobile app make them a winner for commuters.

Indeed, you have multiple ways to connect to this headset, too. As noted, the digital audio controller will sit at your desk and politely allow you to connect up not one, but actually three sound sources, on top of a fourth Bluetooth signal directly into the headset. And yes, you can mix them all simultaneously.

No other headset I've used allows for this absurd level of versatility and freedom. The vast majority of users won't need this, but as a game streamer that uses a laptop and an Xbox with a capture card, I've found it incredibly welcome to not need to Bluetooth to my TV to get game audio (but you can still do that if you want?!).

The headset is heavily configurable, too. The Steelseries GG software on PC and mobile devices allows you to load up from a huge array of presets for various games, more so than any other headset I've tried. Even obscure games are represented here, which is impressive. The only downside is that you can't really delete any of the presets, nor favorite the ones you prefer. It can be a pain going back and forward between a gaming preset and a music preset, for example — but it's easily fixable.

The software on PC in general could use a variety of improvements, as it sometimes hangs and features app downloads and things most people are doubtlessly unlikely to use (why would I need to download Discord from SteelSeries?). But, this is quite honestly my only gripe with the feature set, and thankfully, software is a comparably easy fix over a hardware flaw.

This headset has no hardware flaws. The first iteration of the Arctis Nova Pro had a protrusion in the left ear that could get uncomfortable across long sessions, for example, but there's no such issue here. Maximum comfort, with maximum longevity, and superb, immaculate audio.

For gaming, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite continues to excel. Games like Battlefield 6 and Overwatch absolutely sing on this device, giving away enemy positions with powerful tactical awareness, all without detracting from the more immersive sound design of the various virtual warzones we inhabit.

The amount of tweaking you can do is impressive, too. Pushed to its extremes, the bass can get obnoxiously punchy if you want it to, or leave it thick and creamy, all while retaining maximum clarity and separation. Instruments sound like real instruments on this headset, which might sound like an odd thing to say — but you really feel the physicality of a kick drum or the slide of a bass string in this soundscape.

Imagine how that translates to games with high-quality audio design, with explosions and gunfire zipping all around you. It's difficult to compare this to other gaming headsets as a result. The Arctis Nova Elite is just sublime.

The microphone experience is good, too. As you can hear in the clip above, you're looking at crystal clear comms with the microphone extended, and very good call quality when it's retracted. You can set per-config sidetone too. The sidetone quality isn't the best, but it's more than adequate for game comms.

All up, it's hard to find things to gripe about here. I wish the apps were a little less bloated and more focused, but it doesn't impact the sound experience. The number of settings you can alter and control is intuitive to set up and access, even if the software itself can be a bit slow at times. And hey, it can (and will) be updated.

This headset is an absolute winner, but ... it's hard to look past that price point.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite: Competition

There's pretty much no other headset that competes with the Arctis Nova Elite. On pure audio alone, the Arctis Nova Elite stands out in its own class and is more closely comparable to other hi-res headsets that typically don't fall into the gaming category.

The only other headset with this kind of wireless versatility is the Astro A50 (2025), and the Arctis Nova Elite has it utterly beaten on raw audio, comfort, and lifestyle versatility. The Astro A50 is a pure gaming headset, though, and shaves $300 off the asking price to boot.

I think, unless you were planning to use this headset everywhere and anywhere as a lifestyle option, you might get more bang for your buck with the similarly versatile Astro A50 ... but you wouldn't get the sound quality, multi-USB source mixing, or hot-swappable batteries. There's simply no real comparison here. The Arctis Nova Elite is well and truly in a category of its own.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite: Final Thoughts

The Arctis Nova Elite is the ultimate gaming headset. It's the ultimate everything headset, frankly, able to easily accommodate high-end gaming, multi-device mixing for content creation, and day-to-day lifestyle use with ANC and Bluetooth.

Its hi-res certification isn't just a sticker; it's immediately recognizable the second you commit a current to this headset. The sound reproduction puts the Arctis Nova Elite thoroughly in a category of its own, with few, if any, comparable peers.

But boy howdy, it ain't cheap. You're going to either need to be a true all-day audio enthusiast, particularly fiscally affluent, or (like me) a poor financial planner to justify buying this.

✅You should buy this if ...

• You play a ton across multiple platforms.
• You want a headset that can double up for both gaming and lifestyle use.
• You have cash to burn.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You typically only play on one platform.
• You typically play from a sofa in the living room, given that the DAC will be generally out of reach anyway.
• You are fiscally responsible.

In my headset reviews, I tend to put a big emphasis on value for "most" people. Most of us are unlikely to look at a $599.99 headset and ever consider it an option — myself included. But with this, hearing is believing. It's one of the best headsets around.

I've used my Arctis Nova Pro as my "daily" headset for several years at this point, and aside from some cushion wear, it's as good as it was the day I got it (and the cushions are easily replaced, too). If you were planning to use this headset for years and years, I think even the more budget-conscious could consider this headset, particularly if you wanted something you could use everywhere and anywhere. At the same time, would you feel comfy taking a $599.99 headset on the subway in that situation? I'm not sure I would.

This headset is targeting a very specific type of customer unashamedly, and given what it offers, it's hard to penalize it for its price tag alone. The price makes sense given what's on offer. Whether or not it makes sense for your budget entirely depends on you and your needs. One thing I do know is you absolutely will not be disappointed.

There are plenty of trusted brands for affordable gaming gear, but it can be difficult to find a great wireless gaming headset for less than $100. So, what about a fantastic wireless gaming headset for $60?

That's where the Logitech G321 LIGHTSPEED comes in, and I'm honestly amazed just how good this headset is for the price. The design, comfort, performance, and connectivity are all better than you'd expect, and compromises Logitech made to hit this price are easy to see.

I wish the onboard controls were better or that I could at least customize my experience with Logitech's software, but those are minor complaints. The G321 LIGHTSPEED is the queen of value-driven gaming headsets, and it'll be tough for other companies to properly beat it.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Logitech. Logitech had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Comfort and style in one affordable package

Entry-level gaming headsets are normally obvious at a glance, with chunky designs and visibly cheap plastic, but the G321 LIGHTSPEED manages to avoid that curse.

This is very much a Logitech headset, with plenty of soft curves, fabric-covered Memory Foam ear cushions, and a splash of color to add character. I honestly really like this design, and the G321 is quite comfortable to wear for long periods of time — even with the simple headband "cushion," which is just a fabric wrapping.

It helps that the G321 only weighs 210g, which is a lot lighter than most other wireless gaming headsets. Everything about this headset is simple and straightforward, with the flip-to-mute microphone, the simple power switch, the single-press button to switch between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz modes, and the volume rocker.

I really wish the connection mode button also doubled as media controls, but those are sadly lacking. It's all about the basics with this headset, and Logitech made sure to nail those fundamentals.

The G321 is equipped with standard 40mm drivers tuned with gaming in mind, but I also had no issues using this headset for video conferences, music, and videos. Audio quality is more than good enough for $60, although the G321 is certainly on the quiet side for headsets I've tested, and can get muddy through the mids.

The microphone shares the same vibes — it's honestly better than I expected for a $60 headset, and the flip-to-mute design is appreciated, but it isn't going to blow your mind. My voice was always picked up without issue and sounded clear, and background noise was kept to a minimum, but recordings sound flat in general.

One area where the G321 truly surprised me, though, is wireless connectivity. It's nice enough that this headset boasts both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth options, letting it support a wide range of devices, but I was impressed by both how quickly the headset connected when turning on or switching modes, and by how strong the connection was in use. I've tested far more expensive headsets that skipped or struggled with interference more than this one.

The cost of cutting costs

I'm clearly happy to heap some praise on the Logitech G321 LIGHTSPEED, but Logitech could hardly defy logic with a $60 wireless gaming headset. Corners were cut, and how influential those cuts are will depend on what you need from a gaming headset.

More than anything, the G321 just has less of everything. I already mentioned the lack of onboard media controls, but you also don't get onboard memory or swappable audio profiles, software support to customize equalizers or enable other features (including microphone monitoring), multi-source audio mixing, Xbox support, or wired connectivity.

The battery also isn't the most impressive, with Logitech claiming up to 20 hours of usage. That's on the low-end for any wireless headset or pair of headphones, and I did end up needing to charge the G321 during my test period. Fortunately, charging via USB Type-C is both easy and quick.

Of course, the G321 does feel like a low-end headset, too. It's well-built for what it is and I'm not afraid of it falling apart on me (honestly, I believe this headset could take a fair amount of abuse before throwing in the towel), but the G321 won't be able to fool anyone into thinking it's a $100+ headset.

G321 LIGHTSPEED review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a good-looking gaming headset without breaking the bank.
• You only care about the basics — comfort, audio quality, and performance.
• You absolutely need a wireless headset and can't spend more than $70.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You need a headset with dozens of hours of battery life.
• You want features like multi-source audio mixing or Xbox support.

The Logitech G321 LIGHTSPEED is unlike any other comparable headset in its price range because it's confident. The fit and finish, the reliable performance and dependable audio quality, even the crisp audio cues for powering on/off or switching connectivity modes — the G321 is a simply good headset.

The fact the Logitech G321 LIGHTSPEED costs only $59.99 at BestBuy.com is its "killer feature," and it makes this my new top pick for the best value wireless PC gaming headset. I only wish I could add it to our list of the best Xbox headsets, too, but I can't.

I recently reviewed the Logitech G522 LIGHTSPEED headset, and I really liked it. The G321 feels like a perfectly diluted version of that headset, and it costs $100 less. The G321 made me forget at times just how affordable it is, and Logitech should be proud of that accomplishment.

It's time for another Xbox and PC headset review, but will this one make our list of best Xbox headsets or best PC gaming headsets? You'd better read on to find out.

This is the Astro A20 X, a new 2025 version of Astro's popular mid-range A20 line. The A20 typically sits below headsets like the A40 and A50, which are more on the premium end. We live in a different economy, though. Global tariffs, geopolitical tensions, and a big purchasing power squeeze has battered supply chains and increased material costs. The landscape on gaming accessories is changing rapidly, but there's also been great evolving needs too, as more of us than ever go multiplatform.

The Astro A20 X feels like a reaction to that evolving landscape, with great visual flair for those who want to play on camera, and absurd 90-hour battery life to reduce fuss. On top, you also get a mid-range price point with maximum versatility, compatible with virtually every platform out there.

Is this the headset for you, though, given how many options there are on the market? Let's examine, together.

This headset was reviewed with an Astro A20 X unit provided by Logitech. Logitech did not see the contents of this review prior to posting.

Astro A20 X review: Features, specs, and price

The Astro A20 X is relatively standard on paper for a 2025 Xbox / PC headset, albeit with a few extra bells and whistles to differentiate itself.

It comes with a wireless transmitter in the box, which lets you connect up two USB-C cables simultaneously. Each port has a switch on them, letting you mix between console and PC signals simultaneously. You could have one plugged into your PC and one into your Xbox, for example, or one plugged into your Nintendo Switch 2 dock and one into your PS5.

There's also a Bluetooth 5.3 signal baked in, with a button on the headset for connecting even more devices, but we'll talk more on that in the audio section.

The Astro A20 X joins other headsets in this range by prioritizing battery life, offering an impressive 90~ hours on a single charge. It differentiates itself a bit with its on-ear RGB lighting, which, even when turned on, still provides you with roughly 40~ hours of battery life. This can be turned off, of course.

You can switch it off with the A20 X's impressive PC software, which affords a high degree of configurability. You can let Windows Dynamic Lighting handle your RGB synchronicity, or decouple it and set it up separately. You can tune EQ settings, and also access Blue microphone tweaks from here as well.

On the headset itself, you have a button to switch between your two USB-C signals, as well as on-ear chat and sound mix buttons, and master volume sliders.

The Astro A20 X will set you back around $179.99 in the United States. Is it worth the ask? Let's go deeper.

Astro A20 X review: Construction and comfort

The Astro A20 X is a mid-range priced sort of headset, at least in modern tariff terms, and it does seem a bit like Astro compromised a little on materials to prioritize usability and features.

The headset itself doesn't feel very densely constructed, with hollow-feeling cavities atop a plastic headband. It also has pretty basic cushioning, with fabric that, at least on mine, doesn't fit plush with the cushion itself. That's not to say it's uncomfortable though, far from it, actually.

This is an incredibly lightweight headset, and while I have some reservations about its ability to take a bump ... when it's on your head and in use, it's very comfortable. I'm not usually a fan of fabric ear cups, but they do the job here, but it's clear some superficial quality was sacrificed for features.

The headband feels decent enough, and the adjustability comes from slides on the earcups themselves. I've got a big head, and the maximum adjustments were generous enough, I felt. The floating headband adds a bit of comfort too, although the red accent was a bit of an odd decision in my view.

Why? Well, the Astro A20 X sports large RGB lights on each ear cup, presumably aimed at streamers or influencers who want to game and get on camera at the same time. I would've picked neutral tones for my accents, knowing that streamers might want to use branded colors for their RGB lighting. The red band and buttons might clash, etc. But it's a minor gripe, I suspect most of the people reading this aren't planning to use this headset on camera, and will most likely turn the lighting off since it serves no real purpose. It's fun for kids though, maybe, but it seems like a lot of added cost for little real benefit.

Overall, it's a well-put together headset that sports some unnecessary lights, but some of you reading this might be in the market for that, and that's A-OK. But pretty lights can't help a headset with bad audio ... how does the Astro A20 X fare here?

Astro A20 X review: Audio and mic quality

The Astro A20 X isn't quite on the level of its more expensive A40 or A50 cousins, but it's certainly no slouch either, offering decent sound reproduction at an affordable price.

40mm drivers with a standard frequency response between 20Hz and 20kHz power the Astro A20 X's audio scape, and generally it does a decent job. It has powerful and creamy bass, and playing Call of Duty Black Ops 7 beta, it was great at reproducing directional sound cues. I was able to pinpoint the general position of incoming footsteps and other enemy tells, giving me additional tactical awareness.

Where it struggled a bit was in more cinematic sound, I found, at least without tweaks. You can vastly tune the EQ in this headset, and the Logitech G Hub also comes with many presets for various games, but I still found it to be lacking a bit when it comes to more detailed soundscaping.

For example, in Silent Hill F, dynamic combat music feeds into the sound mix when more and more enemies appear. The closer they get to you, distortion and radio interference sounds enter the sound scape, and the A20 X struggled a fair bit with this. The high pops and crackling noise came through incredibly unpleasant, and I think it's a result of the headset being tuned to separate highs more aggressively for FPS tactical play. It could be that I'd just need more time to tweak the EQ settings, but at the very least, know that it might take some time to get the sound profile where you want it.

It's not bad overall by any means, particularly in this price range, but there are some edge cases like the above that seem to push it beyond its limit.

The microphone is quite good too. It's not content-creation grade, but the Logitech G Hub app does come with Blue software support, and comes with a variety of profiles for different audio feels. It's more than adequate for basic game streaming and voice comms, providing crisp and clear reproduction, which you can hear for yourself in the sample above.

Astro A20 X review: Competition

The elephant in the room with the Astro A20 X is potentially the price tag. It's $179, which is cheaper than the RRP of many of its similar competitors, but with sales events and the like, it puts it within range of the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3). The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) retails for a fair bit more at $199, but it has many of the same features, and goes a bit beyond with the addition of Bluetooth sound mixing.

However, the Stealth 700 is far bulkier than the Astro A20 X, owing to more metal parts and a flip-to-mute mic, rather than a detachable one.

In my mind, it really does come down to these two headsets in this price bracket. If you prefer something sleeker with RGB lights, the Astro A20 X might be for you. But I would argue that the Stealth 700 (Gen 3) sound is a bit punchier overall, but you do pay a premium for that on top.

Astro A20 X review: Conclusion

While I have some reservations about its build quality, they are fairly unfounded. I'm curious how long it will last with its all-plastic construction, but unless you're particularly careless, I doubt there's any real risk here.

It's lightweight and comfortable, and easily suitable for those long 90~ hour sessions its battery life affords, but you might be tweaking the EQ for a fair while to improve upon its default configuration.

✅ You should buy this if:

• You enjoy headsets with RGB.
• You want something with multi-platform capabilities, moving beyond the bare basics without breaking the bank.
• You need something with Bluetooth on top.

❌ You should avoid this if:

• You don't feel like you need RGB lights.
• You play primarily cinematic games, instead of competitive shooters.

I think there are better headsets on offer if you play primarily cinematic games or want to listen to music, although it's certainly no slouch in those departments either, and perhaps subsequent firmware updates will improve some of the popping I heard playing games like Silent Hill F.

If you are playing competitive FPS, however, it's a far better experience, and the microphone is very capable for coordinating your strats. This is a versatile headset offering great value, and worth your time and consideration.

Logitech G, one of the biggest gaming-tech manufacturers in the world, has just unveiled a multitude of new products for its annual Logi PLAY event. One of these new products is the Logitech G Astro A20 X gaming headset, the latest entry in Logitech G's Astro gaming headset lineup.

This device aims to raise the bar of gaming audio quality with improved tech, comfy ergonomics for long hours of gaming, wider software customization options, the ability to listen and switch between two gaming devices regardless of whether they're a home console or PC, and more.

Here's everything you need to know about the Logitech G Astro A20 X gaming headset.

The Logitech G Astro A20 X is packed to the brim with advanced features to enrich the sound quality of your favorite video games and your voice while chatting online. One of the A20 X's unique features is Playsync Audio, which allows the user to connect to two gaming platforms simultaneously and switch between them with the press of a button.

What's most exciting is that the Logitech G Astro A20 X is compatible with a myriad of gaming platforms, which can take advantage of the Playsync Audio feature via wireless, Bluetooth, or USB wired connections.

These devices include:

• Xbox Series X|S
• Xbox One
• PlayStation 4
• PlayStation 5
• Nintendo Switch
• Mobile devices
• PC
• Mac

With this, you can listen to Xbox games with your headset one minute, and then immediately switch to the audio of a PC or PlayStation title the next by pressing the Playsync Audio button, all staying connected to two of these platforms. This eliminates the hassle of having to connect and reconnect your gaming headset to different platforms anytime you want to listen to a game exclusive to a particular system.

Another desirable feature of the Logitech G Astro A20 X is its mic, which uses the same tech found in Logitech G's A50 X headsets, so you can convey your voice with crisp clarity whether it's during a friendly chat on Discord or a competitive match in Overwatch 2.

This mic includes 48 kHz full bandwidth, broadcast-quality sound, a mute button with an indicator light to let you know you're muted, and the ability to be detached. Of course, a headset means nothing without good sound drivers to back it up, and the Logitech G Astro A20 X is equipped with the best in the business.

With 40mm PRO-G drivers, you will be able to listen to the minutest detail of a video game's sound design and immerse yourself in its heart-pumping soundtrack with no sound compromise.

Deeper technical specs include:

The Logitech G Astro A20 X also comes installed with many useful software features.

Examples include the G-Hub or Logitech G Mobile App, which lets the user customize sound quality settings like 10-band EQ adjustments or tweak the headset's RGB settings to give it a unique look.

Another intriguing software feature of the Logitech G Astro A20 X is "Blue VO!CE Technology", which allows the user to apply filters or sound effects to their voice while speaking through the mic.

With this, you can make your voice like a smooth criminal or an epic god of war to prank your friends online. Plus, you can use the headset's onboard Digital Signal Processing (DSP) feature to save your personalized audio settings, to save you the trouble of adjusting your voice every time you use Blue VO!CE Technology.

To top it off, this gaming headset is equipped with ultra-plush memory foam, a suspension headband, and an ultra-lightweight design that weighs less than 300g, so you can wear it for hours on end without feeling any strain on your head.

Speaking of hours, the Logitech G Astro A20 X has 40 to 90 hours of rechargeable battery life, depending on whether you have RGB lighting active for long gaming sessions.

On a side note: the contents of the Logitech G Astro A20 X within its packaging are:

• A20 X LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset
• Detachable boom mic
• PLAYSYNC BASE
• Additional head strap
• 2x 1.8m USB-C to USB-A cable
• User documentation

Switching between two consoles may soon be a thing of the past

Over the years, we at Windows Central have covered many Logitech headsets, some of which we can consider to be the finest on the market, whether they're the best PC gaming headsets or the best Xbox gaming headsets.

Such distinguished examples include the Astro A50 (Gen 5), which my colleague Jez Corden claimed was the "king of convenience" in his 4.5-star review, and the Logitech G522 LIGHTSPEED, which earned a 4.0-star review from our own Zachary Boddy for its reliable performance and sleek design.

After seeing the specs of the Logitech G Astro A20 X, I have a feeling that this new headset is going to continue to uphold Logitech G's legendary pedigree of high-quality headsets for years to come.

The idea of being able to switch between Xbox and PC games to listen to their music without needing to reconnect wireless connections between platforms sounds so convenient and useful, and this is coming from a guy who prefers using wired headphones.

My old headphones are slowly giving up the ghost, so I may consider picking up the Logitech G Astro A20 X in the future when it's eventually time to upgrade.

If you want to pick up the Logitech G Astro A20 X for yourself immediately instead of waiting like me, it's available right now at Logitech's website for $179.99 and comes in black or white color schemes.

Mere weeks separate me from reviewing the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro, which I firmly declared as the absolute best wireless gaming headset you can buy across Xbox, Windows PC, and PlayStation. Despite that, I may not be switching back to it after this review.

The new Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro isn't a better headset by any means — it costs $70 less, performs worse, and boasts fewer features, after all — but the "cute" factor is real, and it's making some monumental plays with the headset I've been testing for a couple of weeks now.

It took three generations, but Razer has finally made a cat-eared gaming headset that truly doesn't compromise, and it's easily the greatest in this admittedly niche category. It may seem shallow to value aesthetics so much, but the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro is as capable as it is adorable.

It's a Razer Kraken V4, but cuter

I had a lot of positive feelings when I reviewed the Razer Kraken V4, mostly centered around its more refined design and balanced feature set. Well, the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro might as well be the aforementioned Kraken V4, but with RGB-lit cat ears.

It's a little more complicated than that, of course, but I'll still keep it simple. The Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro shares its base design, audio quality, performance, feature set, and pricing with the Kraken V4, but feels a little less premium, adds some ears, and loses some endurance.

It's not unreasonable to describe this headset as a Razer Kraken V4 with cat ears, and that comparison is even more obvious when you notice I added some detachable cat ears to the Kraken V4 when I reviewed it. So, why does this headset exist?

Those who love gaming headsets with cat ears already know the answer — the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro is cuter. With no bulky, unsightly straps securing the ears to the headband, the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro looks sleeker and feels more comfortable. That customizable RGB lighting makes a difference, too, and there's even an option to make that lighting react to the game you're playing or your chat (if you're a streamer).

Yeah, it's all about aesthetics, and it's only for gamers who love adding cat ears to their headset. It's a niche category, but Razer chose the right headset to base the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro off, and it made the right decisions to make this headset as good as possible for the price.

I adore the different colorways, too. I've used the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro in both white and pink, and each looks fantastic. Personally, the white is the best of the bunch, especially with how clean the RGB lighting in the earcups and ears is.

Not the most premium, but great all around

Seeing how similar this headset is to the Razer Kraken V4, I don't need to break down every facet.

These 40mm drivers sound good for gaming and music, the retractable microphone is crisp and clear, the battery life lasts for dozens of hours if you disable the RGB lighting, Razer Synapse provides plenty of software features, you get onboard audio profiles you can quickly switch between, there's both Razer HyperSpeed Wireless and Bluetooth support, and performance is good.

There is more RGB lighting here because of the attached cat ears, though, so enabling those lights will kill the battery noticeably faster than the Kraken V4. This headset also comes in at the same price, and Razer did have to cut a corner or two to accomplish that.

Namely, in build quality. The Kraken Kitty V3 Pro still feels appropriately put together for the price, but the overall fit and finish, plus the faux leatherette ear cups, do feel slightly less premium than the earless Kraken V4.

The Kraken Kitty V3 Pro does suffer from some familiar weaknesses, too. You can't mix audio sources, for example (although I don't really expect that feature in sub-$200 headsets), and it can be a little finicky to switch between Razer HyperSpeed and Bluetooth modes.

The onboard controls are messy in general. There are just a lot of buttons and dials at this point, so there's a learning curve when setting up the headset. There's also no Xbox-specific version, which especially stings coming off the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro I recently reviewed.

Kraken Kitty V3 Pro review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a quality gaming headset with proper RGB-lit cat ears.
• You're tired of cute headsets compromising on features or performance.
• You're looking for a great headset that comes in more than just black.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You don't care about cat ears on your headset (why are you here?).
• You prioritize performance and features far more than aesthetics.

Over two years separate Razer's fresh Kraken Kitty V3 Pro from its predecessor, and it's clear how the company's approach has changed in that time. The new headset is sleeker, cheaper, more capable, and drops the restrictive wire — all while looking better than ever.

Sure, we can't swap between different ear designs anymore (which will undoubtedly devastate some), but the new Kraken Kitty V3 Pro possesses a lot more mainstream appeal. It's the best the line has been, and while I would happily pay for an ultra-premium flagship variant, I also completely understand why Razer made this the highest-end Kitty.

And, to be frank, I like this headset enough that I may not go back to the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro — even though that headset is objectively nicer in almost every category.

It's interesting to consider where the Kitty headset goes from here, especially knowing that Razer is considering detaching it from the Kraken family entirely, but I'm not in any rush to find out. The Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro is the wireless gaming headset for those who want to be cute, and it's available now for $179.99 at Razer.com.

Razer also has the new, entry-level Kraken Kitty V3 X for $59.99 at Razer.com, which is perfect for children or those on a tight budget. Sadly, there's no middle child, as Razer opted to keep the alright Kraken Kitty V2 BT on instead.

I like having fun. I like looking cute. I like playing games. It should come as no surprise that I've been a fan of the Razer Kraken Kitty family of gaming headsets for years, ever since I reviewed the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro.

That was actually my first gaming headset review for Windows Central, and a lot of audio gear has come and gone across my desk in the intervening years. Now, the day has finally come — the Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro is official, and Razer made sure I was among the first to get their grubby paws on it.

• RELATED: My full, in-depth Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro review

This latest Kitty headset is a departure in some ways from its predecessor, but those changes make it even better. I also recently had a chance to sit down with Razer's Global Head of Design, Charlie Bolton, though, so I know even bigger changes are coming way down the line for this prestigious family.

In the meantime, though, here are my thoughts on the brand-new Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro.

Unboxing the new Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro

It's pretty clear at a glance that Razer took the foundation it debuted with the Kraken V4 mid-range wireless gaming headset for this product. I reviewed the Razer Kraken V4 and praised it for its balanced versatility, so I wasn't at all disappointed to spot all the blatant similarities.

You're looking at the same general unboxing experience, complete with the generous (and wonderfully color-matched) accessories. You get the same slimmer Kraken design, 40mm drivers, THX spatial audio, 9-zone RGB lighting, dual Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity (with no simultaneous source mixing), and the same upgraded, retractable microphone.

If you're looking for what Razer changed, you only have to look. The Kraken Kitty V3 Pro also comes in really sleek white and quartz (pink) colorways, adds RGB-lit cat ears to the top, and manages to hit the same price point of $179.99 at Razer.com, which I did not expect and love to see.

It does feel like overall build quality has taken a slight dip to avoid those ears accruing a cost premium, though, including the fabric earcup cushions of the Kraken V4 being replaced with more fragile-feeling leatherette cushions.

I think that's a fair compromise; Razer struck a good balance here, just as it did with the regular Kraken V4. This does mean we no longer get the swappable ears of the older Kraken Kitty V2 Pro, but a more elegant design, wireless connectivity, and a lower starting price more than make up for that in my eyes.

I am slightly disappointed that there's no Kitty variant of the full-featured Razer Kraken V4 Pro I reviewed, but I also understand. The Kraken Kitty family has a passionate fanbase, but it's still relatively niche — it doesn't make sense for Razer to make an ultra-premium variant that very few people will actually buy.

Still the best gaming headset with cat ears, but what's next?

You'll have to wait a little longer for the full interview, but I did recently have a long discussion with Charlie Bolton, Razer's Global Head of Design. “The Kitty family is definitely something we’re looking into… What could we do with it?" He said during our conversation. "It has been part of one of the really strong families, okay, now what’s the next thing for it?”

Since its inception, the Kraken Kitty headsets have been closely tied to, well, the Kraken headsets. After all, the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro is essentially a cat-ified variant of the Kraken V4. That relationship makes a lot of sense, and I have little doubt this headset will end up being a top pick for a lot of people, but Razer is apparently considering a big shift in approach for the next generation.

“The Kitty family still has a huge, huge way to go, even if it’s not part of Kraken,” Bolton told me. I'm really excited to see what that looks like, but I won't hold my breath. There's at least a couple of years separating us from the Kitty V4, and what's the rush? We just got a great new wireless gaming headset, and I'll be reviewing it for Windows Central in the near future.

My thoughts right now? I love this design and the three available colors. The audio quality and performance have been excellent so far, and I really wish there were an Xbox-specific version. I still have a lot more testing to do, but Razer is off to a great start with the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro gaming headset, now available for $179.99 at Razer.com in black, white, and pink.

There's also the new ultra-affordable, wired Razer Kraken Kitty V3 X for $59.99 at Razer.com, if you want to save some cash. Razer is keeping the old Kraken Kitty V2 BT around as a middle-of-the-road option, too, but if you want a wireless headset, it's honestly worth paying more for the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro.

I can be rational and accept the limitations of small-scale, limited-edition collaborations between brands. I can accept that some partnerships make most sense in specific markets (even if I'm not a part of those markets), and that the economy of scale means collaborations may not always target the products I'd personally use.

It's good to know, however, that the disappointments of reality can occasionally be subverted. Case in point: Razer remembering that I don't live in China, and therefore was unable to appreciate its special edition gaming headset inspired by one of my top three favorite Pokémon of all time.

The full force of my delusion reassures me that you, dear reader, understand exactly where I'm going with this — the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Gengar Edition is finally available in global markets, and I've been fortunate enough to already get my hands on it.

Unboxing the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Gengar Edition

Razer has been going hard with its brand collaborations lately, and some have been pretty awesome. We more-or-less know what to expect, though, so I wasn't particularly surprised by what I found when unboxing this ghost-ified gaming headset.

This is the Razer Kraken Kitty V2, a wired USB, PC gaming headset with a $100 price tag, modest hardware, and an adorable design. It's the perfect base to do some limited-edition designs, and it makes complete sense to use it here.

You'll find the Gengar Edition safely encapsulated in its custom packaging, but the contents of the box are the same — it's the headset, its permanently attached cable, and some paperwork.

Razer rarely sticks to the basics with its limited-edition gear, though, so don't expect this to be a regular Kraken Kitty V2 spray-painted purple. The whole headset gets a tasteful shift in hues, with clashing purples in the plastics and cushions, bright red fabric in the ear cups, some hidden ghosties, and Gengar's iconic head and back spines replacing the standard cat ears.

It's well done, but the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Gengar Edition also costs $139.99 at Razer.com, a $40 premium that makes it far pricier than what you'd normally pay for this caliber of gaming headset.

Not the headset I'd use, but it's the Pokémon I'd choose

I recently went hands-on with the Razer x Pokémon Collection, and I mostly really enjoyed what felt like a well-rounded and thoughtfully designed set of gaming gear. It also made me hopeful that we'd see some other Razer collaborations hit global markets, like, hm, I don't know, the Kraken Kitty V2 Gengar Edition that was exclusive to China for nearly a year?

I'm ecstatic now that it's here, as Gengar is one of my top three favorite Pokémon of all time (Absol and Umbreon are the other two, if you were curious). It's a good-looking headset, too, but I definitely see it more as a collector's item than anything else.

The Kraken Kitty V2 is a fine wired gaming headset, but it's also showing its age, and these limited editions always cost significantly more. When your product's whole thing is offering a great value, any noticeable price increase is a tough pill to swallow — a 40% price increase just feels ridiculous.

Still, I'm happy this headset is more widely available now, and I think it'll make a lot of hardcore Gengar fans really happy (even if they don't end up using it as their primary gaming headset). It's a fantastically spooky design built onto an already-adorable headset, and there's no such thing as "too many Gengar collectibles."

Now I just need Razer to release a new ultra-premium, wireless Kraken Kitty headset and design an awesome, extremely detailed Shiny Umbreon special edition. You only have to make one, Razer, and no one else has to know.

The Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Gengar Edition is now available for $139.99 at Razer.com. If you'd rather go full Pikachu, the Razer Kraken V4 X Pokémon Edition is also available for $99.99 at Razer.com, which does feel like a more approachable price.

In addition to a modest addition to the HP OMEN hardware family, HP and HyperX also announced humble horde of new accessories — and any one may be what you were looking for to complete your setup.

Today's unveiling includes two new HyperX Cloud wireless gaming headsets and two new microphones. For many, the long-awaited follow-up to HyperX's hugely popular Cloud Alpha Wireless headset will be especially interesting, as will the unique FlipCast microphone and its dual USB/XLR inputs.

Those of us with more modest tastes, though, will be drawn to the reasonably equipped Flight 2 gaming headset or the compact, all-in-one SoloCast 2 microphone. There's a little something for everyone here, especially for existing HyperX fans looking for an upgrade.

First, we have two different microphones. There's the HyperX SoloCast 2, the follow-up to the company's compact, cute-and-friendly budget microphone. It's still an all-in-one USB condenser microphone with a standard cardioid polar pattern, but now in a more squared-off design.

This is for the casual consumers who need higher quality and higher resolution recording, but don't want to break the bank or invest in a hardcore recording setup. Depending on the pricing, the SoloCast 2 could be an excellent option.

The more exciting of the two microphones is easily the FlipCast, a more premium microphone with a unique design and a standout feature.

Not only is it significantly higher resolution (the same 32-bit/192KHz sampling rate as the premium HyperX QuadCast 2 S microphone I reviewed, actually), it also supports both USB and XLR output. The FlipCast can be a high-quality USB microphone in any situation, but it's ready to grow into expanded XLR setups with audio mixers and studio decks — and it can even handle dual-PC streaming setups.

I also quite like the design, including the raised LED level indicator and the onboard controls. If the FlipCast delivers on the quality and ease-of-use front, it could be the perfect microphone for those who know they may need more in the future.

Next, we have two new HyperX Cloud wireless gaming headsets, also split between an option for everyone and an option for those who want something more premium and... unique.

The HyperX Cloud Flight 2 Wireless is the latest, more affordable wireless gaming headset from HyperX, and features a refreshed design with removeable magnetic faceplates and RGB lighting. HyperX apparently designed this headset to be more modular, with swappable headbands, ear cushions, and faceplates.

At its core, though, it's still a HyperX gaming headset. You get angled 50mm HyperX drivers, a detachable 10mm boom microphone, 2.4GHz and Bluetooth wireless modes (with onboard controls), and up to 100 hours of battery life. Interestingly, HyperX also baked in an internal microphone, so you can still take calls even without the main microphone (albeit at a lower quality).

There is an Xbox version for those who need it, too, which I cannot say about the more premium, PC-focused HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless headset.

Right off the bat, HyperX addressed some of the biggest concerns with the original Alpha: the design is sleeker, there's now Bluetooth connectivity (including simultaneous source mixing), and you get even larger and more dynamic audio drivers.

Battery life isn't quite as impressive as the original, but with up to 250 hours of juice, the HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 is still a technical marvel. All that, and HyperX is also including a new RGB Base Station, which includes a volume dial, audio controls, and programmable macro buttons. It's a cool addition that will appeal to some users more than others, but it does help the Alpha 2 Wireless stand out.

Stay tuned, because as you're reading this I'm in Los Angeles with HP, going hands-on with these new products. My initial impressions will be appearing on Windows Central soon.

When I reviewed the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023), I named it one of the very best wireless gaming headsets you could buy. A year later, and we finally got a console-friendly version that was just as good — but it could obviously be better.

Now we finally have the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro, and... I can't believe how big of a jump this is. When Razer briefed me on its new flagship esports-focused headset, I was rendered speechless by the ceaseless list of improvements and upgrades, all while preserving the same iconic design language.

It may be more expensive and a little heavier now, but the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro is the closest to perfection I've ever seen a gaming headset reach. It's made even better that we don't have to wait for Xbox and PlayStation versions.

I don't often do this, but I'm putting my recommendation front and center. If your budget is $250 for a high-performance wireless gaming headset, then save yourself some time and go get the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro for $249.99 at BestBuy.com.

Yeah, let's just summarize those upgrades real quick

Some of you may accuse me of being dramatic if I don't lay it out loud and clear, so I'm starting by listing all the noticeable improvements Razer made with the new BlackShark V3 Pro.

• Upgraded audio. The BlackShark V3 Pro upgrades to Razer's new TriForce Bio-Cellulose 50mm Gen-2 drivers, which are basically bigger and better versions of the drivers in the ultra-premium Razer Kraken V4 Pro I reviewed.
  • Not content with just that, Razer also added THX Spatial Audio 7.1.4 support, which adds four virtual speakers above your head when you want that surround sound effect. The BlackShark V3 Pro supports the Xbox and PlayStation spatial audio equivalents, too.
• Bigger microphone. The BlackShark V2 Pro already had one of the best microphones on any headset, but Razer made it even better by increasing the physical size of the HyperClear Super Wideband microphone from 9mm to 12mm, and increased the sampling rate from 32KHz to 48KHz while it was at it.
• Improved performance. This headset is designed with competitive gaming in mind (especially first-person shooters), so improved performance was a guarantee.
  • The greatest performance upgrade comes from Razer's new HyperSpeed Wireless Gen-2. Yes, Razer HyperSpeed actually got a next-gen upgrade with greater efficiency and stability, but Razer also reduced the wireless latency to a mere 10ms — easily the best in the industry.
  • Razer has continued working with esports athletes to develop professionally tuned audio profiles for six of the most popular FPS games, and you can now store a total of 9 unique audio profiles on the BlackShark V3 Pro.
• Refined ergonomics. Razer may have kept the same overall design language, but the BlackShark V3 Pro is still a lot more refined in a lot of ways.
  • The yoke design has returned, but it's further reinforced and now has a 15-degree swivel joint to provide a better fit to everyone's unique head shape.
  • The Memory Foam ear cushions are just as comfortable as ever, but Razer designed a new dual-layer fabric that uses leatherette for superior noise isolation underneath cloth for improved breathability.
  • The design has been refined in other ways, too, like more distinct textures for the onboard controls and adding swappable magnetic faceplates (which have nothing to do with comfort, but could be great for customization).
• Better support. Unlike the BlackShark V2 Pro, Razer's latest flagship gaming headset is coming out of the gate with PC, Xbox, and PlayStation versions — all available in black or white.
  • Not only do we already have console-specific versions, but they also fully support Razer Synapse on PC this time, so you don't have to choose one or the other.
  • The BlackShark V3 Pro can also do simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4GHz audio mixing, so you can have a voice call on one and your game on the other, or whatever combination you need in the moment.
  • If you'd rather plug in, the BlackShark V3 Pro supports USB wired audio and even comes with a 3.5mm adapter for more traditional headphone jacks.
  • You can customize your BlackShark V3 Pro using the Razer Audio App on Android and iOS, the Razer Headset Setup app on Xbox, and the Razer Synapse app on PC — and the increased onboard memory will remember all your changes.
• More features. The BlackShark V3 Pro also gains some brand-new features. I already mentioned the simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4GHz audio, but there are a couple more, too.
  • Razer has brought hybrid active noise cancellation to the BlackShark, with 4 microphones (2 internal and 2 external) dedicated to filtering out unwanted background noise to keep you in the game.
  • In addition to the new ANC button for cycling through modes, Razer also added a customizable roller to the BlackShark V3 Pro, which handles chat balancing by default, but can also uniquely increase just the sounds of footsteps to give you a competitive advantage.

Whoo, that's a lot. Let's actually talk about my experience using the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro now.

It'll be difficult for Razer to impress with the BlackShark V4

I already spent a lot of words just explaining what Razer did with the BlackShark V3 Pro, but the important question is if those upgrades actually make a difference. Um, yes. Yes, they do.

At first glance, the BlackShark V3 Pro isn't a major departure from its predecessor, but this headset is noticeably more comfortable to wear, especially for long periods. A lot of that comes down to the new swivel joint, which is important for the fit but also improves isolation.

It's still a predominantly plastic headset, but the BlackShark V3 Pro does feel very well put together, and there are a lot of fine details and accents that remind you that this is a premium headset, including real stitching on the headband that's color-matched to the version you bought (black for PC, green for Xbox, blue for PlayStation).

Razer also made the faceplates easily swappable via magnets; right now, Razer isn't selling custom options to make your BlackShark V3 Pro your own, but I can't imagine Razer made this deliberate design decision without some intent to take advantage of it.

The only downside is that the BlackShark V3 Pro is about 47g heavier than before, which is a noticeable increase. It's still extremely comfortable to wear, but the added baggage is worth noting.

Performance has also evolved by a significant degree, and for two main reasons. First are the new Bio-Cellulose 50mm Drivers Gen-2, which results in a much warmer and deeper sound profile similar to the Kraken V4 Pro headset, but with some precision, soundscape, and responsiveness improvements.

The BlackShark V3 Pro does sound excellent for gaming, music, movies, and everything in between, with powerful bass and sub-bass response and clean mids. Lots of onboard memory and a solid equalizer mean you can tailor the BlackShark V3 Pro to every use case.

I did notice some distortion at higher frequencies, especially when the active noise cancellation (ANC) is enabled, and this headset sometimes struggles when switching between audio profiles, becoming hollow-sounding overall for a few (long) seconds. Overall, though, the BlackShark V3 Pro is a substantial improvement over the 2023 model.

The second major performance upgrade? Razer HyperSpeed Wireless Gen-2, which debuted with the Razer DeathAdder V4 Pro gaming mouse I reviewed. The BlackShark V3 Pro sadly doesn't get the new wireless receiver design, but it does benefit from improved stability (even with a lot of interference from competing wireless signals) and lower latency.

Razer told me it probably could've made the latency even lower than 10ms, but there was no point — 10ms is how long it takes for a healthy brain to process audio, apparently. I can't really claim to tell the difference, but I can tell you the BlackShark V3 Pro sounds instant and is incredible with competitive gaming.

One area where the BlackShark V3 Pro is a bit shakier compared to its predecessor is with endurance. I wrote an editorial years ago about how it felt like it took forever to kill the BlackShark V2 Pro, and the new headset does boast similar longevity... but if you take advantage of its new features, like active noise cancellation and simultaneous audio mixing, you can absolutely kill it faster.

Speaking of ANC, the BlackShark V3 Pro utilizes 4 microphones (separate from its main mic, which you'll need for voice calls) to filter out unwanted noise, and it does work, albeit subtly. The BlackShark V3 Pro certainly isn't usurping Sony or Bose for the best ANC headphones any time soon, but the ANC does make a (positive) difference, and you do get a fair amount of control over it, including an ambient mode that is equally fine.

I also understand why it exists for marketing reasons, but the PC-only BlackShark V3 Pro does feel pointless this time around. The Xbox and PlayStation versions rightfully have full compatibility and feature parity with Windows PC (apart from the PlayStation version missing the Halo-focused audio profile), so there's no real reason to get the PC-only version.

BlackShark V3 Pro review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a high-quality gaming headset that works across platforms.
• You want the best performance possible out of a wireless headset.
• You value features like ANC and a class-leading microphone.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You won't take advantage of this headset's competitive performance.
• You need a headset for exclusively one platform (and want to save money).

What even is left for Razer to do? Perhaps the BlackShark V4 Pro will be a bit lighter, and last a bit longer, and sound a bit better, and block out background noise a bit more, but fundamentally, it feels like Razer truly nailed it with this iteration.

Razer took every piece of legitimate criticism from every review (mine included), and actively worked to fix those weaknesses with this headset. It's the culmination of years of refinement and innovation, and the end result is easily one of the best Xbox and PC gaming headsets ever made.

The BlackShark V3 Pro may cost $50 higher starting out, but it's worth every penny you spend on it, even if you're not the most competitive gamer to walk the earth. If you'd like to save money, the standard Razer BlackShark V3 seems to basically be the BlackShark V2 Pro but with some upgrades (like simultaneous Bluetooth/2.4GHz audio) for just $150 — but bear in mind that I haven't personally used that headset.

With upgraded audio, active noise cancellation, and a bevy of other upgrades, the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro is an incredibly easy recommendation for $249.99 at BestBuy.com or $249.99 at Amazon.com. Xbox or PC, it doesn't matter — this is the headset I'm using from now on, and it's all because Razer actually listened to us.

There's no shortage of awesome gaming headsets to add to your setup, but your options are more limited if you need a wireless headset that works with Xbox consoles, too.

That's just the nature of Xbox Wireless, but you still don't have to pay extra for a great headset. SteelSeries has added a new option to the mix with the Arctis Nova 3X Wireless, the Nova-fied redesign of its uber-popular Arctis 1 Wireless headset from yesteryear (which we reviewed).

I've been using it for a few weeks now, and I've been really impressed by this headset's design and featureset for the price point — and I absolutely adore that SteelSeries is actually offering more than just black and white colors. The Arctis Nova 3X isn't perfect, but it's still a really solid wireless Xbox option for those wanting to spend around $100.

A lightweight headset with some actual personality

First, the Arctis Nova 3X does adopt the same design language we've seen from other Nova products, with the two-tier circular earcup design and slim profile. The Arctis Nova 3X looks great, and its detachable microphone makes it more than sleek enough for use as a normal pair of wireless headphones.

This is an all-plastic headset, which is a double-edged sword. On one hand, the Arctis Nova 3X is insanely light at only 260g, so you barely feel it on your head. On the other, it does feel quite cheap in the hand, with a fair amount of creaking.

I've seen for myself how much abuse the Arctis Nova 3X can take, though, so in this case, "cheap" doesn't mean "fragile" — you shouldn't have to worry about this headset too much if you pass it to your children.

The Arctis Nova 3X also has some give and take when it comes to ergonomics. Breathable fabric earpads with a healthy amount of cushioning and a wide suspension headband work in tandem with that ultralight design to make this a very comfortable headset, but the Arctis Nova 3X is on the small side — even on the largest settings, it still barely fit me, so those with larger heads may struggle.

What I love more than anything, though, is that SteelSeries actually gave the Arctis Nova 3X some color. The standard black and white colors are here, of course, but you also get "Aqua" and "Lavendar" options... or blue and purple, if you're normal.

These colors are more "pastel" than "neon," so they may not be as punchy as you'd like, but I have both in hand, and the Arctis Nova 3X looks great. For the eagle-eyed, these are the same fun and cheerful colors offered by the SteelSeries Rival 3 (Gen 2) Wireless mouse I reviewed, so you can color-match your setup on a budget.

In so many ways, personal technology has become unbearably monochrome over the last few years, a symptom of the obsession with "minimalist" design. Just having some fun color options gives the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3X a leg up in my book, but it does also help that it's a solid headset.

Features are there, but performance isn't always

The Arctis Nova 3X is equipped with some pretty impressive hardware for the price, including 40mm Neodymium Magnet drivers with spatial audio support, a high-resolution noise-canceling microphone, and both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth wireless connectivity.

On the audio front, this headset is good — if not amazing — for the price. There's a good amount of punch in the low end, with great detail and responsiveness in the mids and highs, but the overall soundstage is on the narrow side.

There's also a persistent, soft static in the background, something that you may hear with other headphones at higher volumes — but seems to be always present with the Arctis Nova 3X. Any music or audio immediately drowns it out, but it does affect clarity.

The microphone is a major improvement over SteelSeries' earlier budget wireless headsets, though, with respectable depth and detail, as well as actually functional background noise cancelation. I can't imagine many will complain about this microphone for only $110.

Where the Arctis Nova 3X slips is in performance. Having both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth lets this headset connect to basically any device (including Xbox, as long as you switch the dongle over), but stability wasn't the best.

The Arctis Nova 3X was prone to interference and skips, and often refused to properly connect to my Xbox without switching the dongle over to PC and back again. I also genuinely can't tell you how good the new SteelSeries mobile app is for customizing the Arctis Nova 3X, because it absolutely refused to connect properly (a common problem, it seems, if you go off Google Play Store reviews).

None of these problems made the Arctis Nova 3X bad to use, and the SteelSeries GG app on Windows PC was more than enough for customizing the EQ and other headset settings, but those planning to use the Arctis Nova 3X primarily with their phone and Xbox can't rely on the mobile app, and those who need the absolute best wireless performance for competitive gaming can't rely on the Arctis Nova 3X 100% of the time.

I've no such issues with battery life, though. SteelSeries quotes up to 40 hours of continued usage, and that feels perfectly accurate from my testing. It's also easy to charge via USB Type-C, netting you hours of use with just minutes of charging.

Arctis Nova 3X Wireless review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a cheap wireless headset for Xbox, PC, and mobile.
• You love fun colors and are tired of the same black/white designs.
• You need a lightweight headset that can take a beating.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You need the most reliable wireless performance (or a working mobile app).
• You need a larger headset for a comfortable fit.

Quick overview: the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3X Wireless is a really good wireless gaming headset for around $100, especially since it's compatible with Windows PC, Xbox consoles, mobile devices, and more.

The wireless performance isn't the best (and the mobile app flat out won't work for me), and I have some other complaints for this value-driven headset — but it's fun, durable, and packs a surprising number of features.

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3X Wireless is available for $109.99 at Amazon or $109.99 at Best Buy, making it one of the best Xbox headsets for those on a budget... but if you can drop the extra cash, the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) we reviewed is still the champion at $200.

There's a huge variety of different gaming headsets in the industry right now, ranging from more basic and budget-friendly options to premium offerings with large suites of nifty features and even larger price tags. During big sales like Amazon's annual Prime Day event, though, you can get many of the latter for far less than usual, and this year, the Alienware Pro Wireless gaming headset — one I've been using daily since reviewing it — is down to just $141.99 at Amazon.

That's still quite a bit of money, but it's incredibly affordable for a headset of its caliber. And compared to its usual price of $230, it's nearly a full $100 off — a colossal discount, and easily one of the best I've seen during "Prime Week."

• Shop all Amazon Prime Day deals

The headset I use every day — here's why I love it

The Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Headset is the third entry in a new "Pro" line that Dell introduced for its gaming brand last year, with its release following the arrival of the Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard and the Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse. Those two peripherals were fantastic, and the headset is no different — something I quickly realized once I started testing it for my review.

As I wrote then, it's "so good it's dethroned my favorite from Razer," which was a Razer Kaira Pro I bought early in 2024 for wireless use while gaming on PC. Since then, it's remained the headset I reach for every day, whether I'm enjoying my favorite games or listening to music during work hours.

There's a ton to love here, but the thing that stands out the most about the Alienware Pro Wireless is the quality of its audio — something I'm glad to be able to say about a headset. Speech comes over the detachable microphone crisply and clearly, and while there's noise cancellation you can toggle if you're playing in a particularly noisy environment, I find that the mic excellently blocks out background sounds without it. You also have the option to use mic monitoring if you'd like to listen to yourself speak for volume control.

The speakers, meanwhile, have a wide 20-40KHz range and are powered by potent 50mm drivers. The soundscape they deliver is extremely rich and balanced across lows, mids, and highs, but also incredibly clean and free of any muddy distortion. Notably, the headset can also get surprisingly loud compared to others I've used, which is something I enjoy taking advantage of during particularly grandiose and epic moments in-game (or for jamming out to heavier music genres).

In terms of other features to take advantage of, there's full support for Dolby Atmos spatial audio as well as active noise cancellation (ANC), though the headset's ANC is fairly mediocre and struggles to block out sounds louder than a fan. This ultimately doesn't bother me since I dislike ANC because it gives me headaches, but it's something to keep in mind if you enjoy using it.

Design-wise, the Alienware Pro Wireless is superb, and sports a highly adjustable and cushioned headband along with memory foam leatherette earcups that rest gently on your head. And while the headset's fit is snug, it's also very light at 315g (0.69lbs) and breathable, too. I routinely wear it all day long while working and gaming; in fact, I'm listening to music with it right now. Aesthetically, it's got a minimalistic "Lunar Light" white colorway with a silver Alienware logo on the earcup exteriors; there's a "Dark Side of the Moon" black option, too, but it's not on sale for Amazon Prime Day.

Onboard controls include a mic mute, volume wheel, and an ANC button, along with a power switch and a slider for switching between connecting via a USB dongle or Bluetooth (the headset also works over a wired connection when plugged in and charging). Battery life is high with an average of about 70 hours in my experience (Dell advertises 75), though you'll only get about 30 hours before needing to charge if you use ANC.

Ultimately, the Alienware Pro Wireless is one of the best headsets I've ever used for PC gaming, and picking it up while it's nearly $100 off is a massive steal. Just don't get it expecting it to work with Xbox consoles, however, as it's unfortunately not compatible.

Amazon Prime Day continues to trek on this week, providing sweet discounts for many products, especially if you're subscribed to the Amazon Prime Membership program. Members of said program can get access to exclusive discounts not found anywhere else, such as this 40% discount for the Corsair Void V2 Wireless.

This wireless gaming headset with incredible battery life and sound normally costs $129.99 at most retailers. However, if you're an Amazon Prime Member, then you can get this headset for $85.49 on Amazon during Amazon Prime Day.

Why should you buy the Corsair Void Wireless V2 headset?

Corsair is one of the world's leading manufacturers of PC gaming hardware and accessories, crafting the finest keyboards, gaming headsets, and PC rig components around.

One of Corsair's more recent products we've had the honor of testing out is the Corsair Void V2 Wireless headset. Our own Harish Jonnalagadda reviewed the Corsair Void V2 Wireless and gave it a glowing high score of 4/5 stars, stating that, and I quote, "With the Void Wireless V2, Corsair proves it can deliver a great-sounding gaming headset on a budget."

Why this headset has garnered such a positive reception from us to the point where we rank it as one of the best PC gaming headsets we've ever encountered is for many reasons.

For starters, it has a lightweight yet sturdy design with memory-foam ear cushions to help it be comfortable to wear for many hours of gaming.

It's wireless 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connectivity performs flawlessly so you don't have to worry about it randomly disconnecting while in use. Plus, this headset comes equipped with custom 50mm Neodymium drivers to deliver crystal-clear audio (which can be customized via iCUE) and a high-quality omnidirectional mic that doesn't pick up distracting background noise.

To top it off, the headset has an enormous battery life of up to 70 hours using the 2.4GHZ connection or 130 hours while in Bluetooth mode so you can use it for days before needing to recharge it.

That being said, the Corsair Void V2 Wireless has a few drawbacks you need to be aware of before buying one. Its mic is not detachable, you can't plug the headset into the PC via USB-C, its oblong-shaped ear pieces may not fit every wearer, and worst of all — it's not compatible with Xbox consoles as it only works with PC, PlayStation consoles, and mobile devices.

So if you're looking for a high-quality headset that's compatible with both PC and Xbox Series X|S, then you're better off with products like the HyperX Cloud MIX 2 or the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro. What's even better is that both of these normally highly expensive headsets are on sale right now for $144.79 at Amazon and $149.99 at Amazon respectively.

If you can look past these flaws and only plan on using headsets for PC gaming, then the Corsair Void V2 Wireless is a great purchase for those looking for a budget gaming headset, especially now that it's on sale for Amazon Prime Day.

The Corsair Void V2 Wireless usually has an MSRP $129.99, but it's now been reduced by a big 40% discount to a more affordable price tag of $85.49 on Amazon. However, this discount is only available for those who subscribe to the Amazon Prime Membership program.

Amazon Prime Membership is definitely worth signing up for, as not only will you get access to exclusive discounts (even outside of Amazon Prime Day), but you will also get access to other benefits. These benefits include same-day shipping, delayed shipping options, multimedia streaming services like Amazon Video and Amazon Music, and much more.

With Amazon Prime Day underway, there's a wave of discounted tech as numerous retailers compete for attention and increasingly-limited spending. Every now and again, there is a deal worth noting that manages to catch my eye, such as the HyperX Cloud MIX 2 for $145 at Amazon.

That's 28% off the gaming headset I use every single day for playing games and for work! It's unclear exactly how long this deal will remain in stock, so don't wait around.

Why should you get the HyperX Cloud MIX 2 headset?

While there are a number of things the HyperX Cloud MIX 2 headset gets right, the main selling point can be summed up in two words: battery life. This headset has the single-best battery life of any wireless PC gaming headset I've used, bar none.

In Bluetooth mode, this headset will run for over 110 hours on a full charge, which still hasn't been matched. If you need better sound quality and prefer to use it with the wireless dongle, you'll still get more than 72 hours of usage before needing to plug it in.

Naturally, it uses USB-C charging, meaning it can go from being basically empty back up to a full charge just a half-hour after being plugged in.

It's also worth noting that this headset is extremely comfortable, feeling secure and cozy regardless of if I'm playing a PC game, having a work meeting, or listening to music while exercising. In fact, ever since initially reviewing it, I've continued to use this headset practically every single day.

The HyperX Cloud MIX 2 usually runs for $200, but it's down to $144 during this Amazon Prime Day sale. That's a fantastic 28% discount that makes this headset extremely easy to recommend for any PC gamers. It's also the lowest price I've ever seen this headset available at.

Since it uses a USB Bluetooth connection, this headset also works on PlayStation 5, as well as handheld gaming devices like the Steam Deck, meaning it's a great one-size-fits-all solution unless you happen to need an Xbox headset.

If an Xbox headset is what you're looking for, then you're better off considering options like the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro for Xbox, which will suit your needs and is also heavily discounted during this Amazon Prime Day.

Amazon Prime subscribers get extra benefits during Prime Day, including some exclusive sales that aren't open for general users. Prime subscribers also have access to Prime Video, which includes original shows like the second season of the Fallout TV series, which is slated to premiere in December.

Technically, Amazon Prime Day is kicking off on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. Even so, there's a few great sales already live, including a discount on the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro for Xbox. This is one of the Windows Central team's favorite gaming headsets, and right now, you can grab the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro for Xbox for $170 at Amazon, a 15% discount from the usual $200 price point.

There's no telling how long this headset will remain in stock, so if you're interested, act fast!

• Shop all Amazon Prime Day deals

Why should you buy the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro for Xbox?

Here at Windows Central, the team reviews a lot of gaming headsets. Whenever one stands out above the rest, it's a noteworthy piece of tech, especially for anyone looking for one of the best Xbox headsets to grab.

My colleague Zachary Boddy reviewed the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro for Xbox last year, and was utterly impressed with the comfort, sound, and overall quality of the device. In fact, this is still the headset they use every single day.

Part of that comes down to the 50mm drivers, which are paired with super-soft memory foam ear cushions. It's not quite the absolute best audio quality available, but it's equal to or better than anything else in this price range.

The microphone is also noticeably a cut above the usual wireless experience, delivering clear audio and capturing sound in ways we simply haven't seen in other wireless gaming headsets.

Razer's HyperClear Super Wideband microphone is unparalleled in this department, so take note if you've had issues with people hearing you talk in multiplayer games in the past.

Another key factor is the battery life. Razer advertises that the BlackShark V2 Pro for Xbox will clock in around 48 hours on a full charge, but this is a fairly conservative estimate, and in reality, you'll likely get even longer with it.

That's especially true if you also like to play games on PC, where the Bluetooth connection is rated for 70 hours of usage. Again, that's a conservative estimate, and our testing has generally found you'll get even more playtime from a full charge.

Whenever you do have to plug it back in, it uses standard USB-C charging, meaning it's easy to quickly plug it in and recharge between sessions.

Prior to now, we've always seen the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro listed at $200, but with Amazon Prime Day approaching, you can snag it for a nifty 15% discount, or $30 off.

Amazon Prime members are also getting tons of other benefits, such as free and faster shipping, as well as exclusive offers or discounts that aren't available for non-members.

You'll also get access to Prime Video, which includes original shows like the upcoming second season of the Fallout TV series, which is set to premiere in December.

Millions of people have a gaming headset on their desk, and Logitech is one of the more trusted players in the space, with a wide catalog between its G and Astro brands.

A new contender for your money has entered the game with the Logitech G522 LIGHTSPEED, a wireless, design-forward, midrange hero device that makes a good showing for itself.

In a rare change of pace, this headset also lowered its retail pricing before it was released, making it an even better value for those who want an attractive and reliable audio companion... As long as Windows PC is their primary platform.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Logitech. Logitech had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Logitech G522 review: Pricing and specifications

The Logitech G522 LIGHTSPEED is a mid-range wireless gaming headset, sitting below Logitech's most premium offerings with a retail price of $159.99 at Logitech.

That's actually $20 less than the pricing Logitech initially gave me ahead of the headset's announcement, and I do think $160 feels like an appropriate price for the G522.

You can also get the Logitech G522 LIGHTSPEED for $159.99 at Best Buy. Wherever you go, the headset is available in both white and black colorways.

In the box, you'll find the Logitech G522 LIGHTSPEED wireless gaming headset, the LIGHTSPEED 2.4GHz USB Type-A dongle, the detachable microphone, and a USB Type-C to USB Type-A charging cable.

Logitech G522 review: What I like

The Logitech G522 may not benefit from the luxurious materials and designs of more expensive headsets, but Logitech still concocted an eye-catching design that — in my opinion, at least — makes this headset stand out in the price range.

It's predominantly plastic, sure, available in black and white flavors, but with colorful accents (green for white, purple for black), vibrant RGB lighting in each earcup, and aesthetically consistent lines and details. More importantly, it's also very lightweight at just 290g, and is overall one of the more comfortable gaming headsets I've tested in the category.

The earcups are spacious, the memory foam cushions are soft and wrapped in breathable fabric (they're also replaceable), and the suspension headband spreads the minimal weight evenly.

Beauty and comfort are here, but the G522 is also practical. All of its controls and ports are neatly lined on the left earcup, including the detachable microphone, USB Type-C port for charging and audio, mic mute switch, volume wheel, Bluetooth pairing button, and power switch (not a power button, interestingly).

As you may have gleaned, the G522 does support Bluetooth connectivity with most devices, as well as wired audio, but you'll mostly be relying on the LIGHTSPEED wireless. The USB Type-A dongle is compact, and wireless performance is really good... Except for the range, which feels lower than some competing 2.4GHz standards.

Under the hood, the G522 is powering dual 40mm, biocellulose drivers, which Logitech claims it has redesigned with isolated acoustic modules to improve earcup synchronicity, multi-layer audio detail, and bass response. Audio resolution is also competitive, letting you enjoy higher fidelity music than a lot of budget and mid-range headsets.

I don't know about all of that, but the G522 does sound great. Audio is clear and responsive, with crisp low-end and meaty mids. I've noticed some distortion at higher frequencies, but it's hard to complain about this audio performance at $160.

Recording is handled by a slim, detachable, omnidirectional microphone with a competitively wide frequency response and high resolution, as well as a built-in LED indicator for muting.

It's a really good microphone for the price range, but it's really Logitech's software that brings the added value here.

The Logitech G522 can be configured with the Logitech G HUB PC app and Logitech G mobile app, and syncs your settings as you switch between.

The G HUB app is where you'll find most of your settings, with plenty of in-depth customization for the LIGHTSYNC RGB lighting, full frequency-based equalizers for the drivers and microphone, a sample for building your own soundboard, community-created and custom presets, and more.

The microphone options are especially impressive, pulling on Logitech's legendary experience with its Blue brand to let you tailor settings like input gain, high-pass filter, gate, noise reduction, compressor, and de-esser/de-popper.

It's clean software with a good number of options, and the G522 also supports DTS:X spatial audio if you want surround sound (which I don't recommend for music, but can be great for games and movies).

However you configure or use the Logitech G522, you won't have to worry about battery life. During my testing, Logitech's estimations of 40-90 hours (depending on your lighting) may actually be modest; I haven't had to charge the G522 yet.

Logitech G522 review: What I don't like

The G522 nails the three core pillars of a good headset: comfort, audio quality, and wireless performance/battery life, but there's definitely room for improvement.

I'll start with the design side of things. The G522 looks great and it's certainly comfy, but the suspension headband only provides two levels of adjustment; you're out of luck if you can't get the perfect fit with that.

I'm also a little concerned about how this plastic headset will hold up to years of abuse, particularly where the headband attaches to the earcups. Movement is necessary to adjust to your head, but I don't have a ton of confidence in how durable this connection is.

Then there's the multi-platform support. 2.4GHz and Bluetooth ostensibly cover all the bases, but the Logitech G522 LIGHTSPEED sadly lacks Xbox Wireless support (I know why, but I'm still disappointed), 2.4GHz works with PlayStation but is obviously designed with PC in mind, and Bluetooth almost feels like an afterthought despite the mobile app integration.

That's mostly due to the lack of any media controls beyond volume. You can't play/pause or skip/rewind tracks from the headset controls, even though other headsets accomplish this with a multi-purpose Bluetooth button.

Logitech G522 review: Also consider

Logitech G522 review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a design-centric wireless PC gaming headset.
• You want a headset microphone with lots of options and features.
• You're looking for a lightweight, comfortable headset.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You want great multi-platform support, especially for Xbox.
• You tend to throw your headset around a lot.

With both G and Astro brands under its belt, Logitech has a lot of experience building high-quality gaming accessories — especially headsets. I'm not shocked that the G522 LIGHTSPEED is great.

This headset puts its best foot forward with its refined aesthetics, but it also sounds great, lasts for hours, and gives you plenty of options to customize the microphone and sound profile.

I wish the G522 supported Xbox consoles and that it included media controls to rank among the best Xbox headsets, but there are plenty who'll just be happy to add a new Logitech headset to their desk. Personally, though, the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) is still the sub-$200 champion, so consider if it's worth spending that extra $40.

You can buy the Logitech G522 LIGHTSPEED in black or white for $159.99 at Best Buy right now.

If you're playing games online with friends or want to increase the immersive experience of a game's sound design and soundtrack, then you will need a high-quality gaming headset to do the job.

One such headset is the HyperX Cloud 3. This premium wireless gaming has everything a gamer needs, from excellent sound quality, comfy wearability, and a huge battery life that will last you up to 120 hours.

HyperX Cloud 3 typically has an MSRP of $149.99 at most retailers. However, Amazon is selling the headset for a special 21% discount, taking its high MSRP down to a more affordable price of $118.60.

Why should you buy the Cloud 3 Wireless?

HyperX has produced a long line of premium-grade gaming headsets over the years, and the HyperX Cloud 3 Wireless headset ranks as one of its finest. Our resident headset expert, Rebecca Spear, even gave it a 4.5/5 review, stating that, "it's a great choice for any gamer."

What makes the HyperX Cloud 3 Wireless one of the best PC gaming accessories has many reasons. For starters, it has a durable and comfortable design that can endure many years of use thanks to its memory-foam-padded earphones.

HyperX's Cloud 3 Wireless also has top-notch sound quality when listening to games or chatting with others online. The audio EQ balancing can even be adjusted with a free HyperX NGenuity app to suit your auditory tastes (the app can also adjust button bindings, RGB lighting, and more).

The high sound quality also pertains to the HyperX Cloud 3 Wireless' microphone, allowing you to convey your voice online without any cracking or audio artifacting. The mic can also block out background noise, helping you avoid a common PC gaming mistake of distracting teammates with annoying background chatter during online multiplayer games.

One of the biggest draws of the HyperX Cloud 3 Wireless is its absurdly long battery life of up to 120 hours. With it, you can use the headset for almost a week of non-stop chatting online and playing multiplayer titles like Overwatch 2 or Elden Ring: Nightreign before needing to recharge.

The only major drawbacks of the HyperX Cloud 3 Wireless headset are the lack of an LED indicator of its battery life, a lack of Hi-Res Audio capabilities, and its usually monumental MSRP of $149.99, which may be too expensive for most people.

Thankfully, that last problem has been mitigated temporarily thanks to this special 21% discount from Amazon. For a limited time, you can get this amazing gaming headset for $118.60 and save yourself $31.39 in the process, which is a pretty sweet deal if you ask me.

The SteelSeries Arctis Gamebuds have been my go-to for gaming audio, effectively sidelining my Xbox headset for the foreseeable future. They are just way more comfortable to use on a daily basis.

I've been more than impressed with them and while they are pretty pricey at $159.99 on Amazon, the convenience is totally worth the cost.

This week SteelSeries dropped a new color of the Gamebuds, and not only does it tickle the part of my brain that's a sucker for transparent accessories, they remind me a heck of a lot of the ultra rare orange Halo Xbox that was given out to developers. Unfortunately, the new color isnt compatible with Xbox. Boo! Wasted potential!

These orange gamebuds, which Steelseries is calling the 'Glorange' range are simply stunning and they do still work with gaming handhelds like Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and of course will work with PlayStation consoles, but I can't help but be a little bit disappointed.

Gamebuds that can replace your headset and your Airpods

The SteelSeries Arctis Gamebuds have completely replaced my Xbox gaming headset and despite their high price tag I'd totally be down to grab this new color if it was compatible with Xbox, as it reminds me so much of the ultra rare limited edition Halo Orange Xbox that was given out to developers.

The buds are still worth checking out, because they are compatible with PlayStation and gaming handhelds. Whether you want to use Bluetooth or the handy USB-C wireless receiver that comes packed in the case (I prefer the latter) these are an absolute dream to use for gaming.

The Arctis Gamebuds have a companion app with which you can use presets for specific games, from Call of Duty to Diablo 4, there are over 200 game-specific settings to choose from.

The 10-hour battery life is meaty too considering they charge for up to 40 hours within the case between uses. The case also supports wireless quick charge so I can throw on the same charging pad as my smartphone. Our Executive Editor gave these a 4 out of 5 in our Arctis Gamebuds for Xbox review, and I know how picky he is with headsets.

I'm not sure why SteelSeries have left Xbox out of this limited edition launch, and can only think the PlayStation version of the grey colorway have sold better (though this is just my own speculation).

More puzzling is that the Xbox edition are compatible with everything — including PS5. So in my opinion are the better value pick, though it is confusing from a consumer standpoint. Let's just blame Microsoft for being annoying and not just using Bluetooth compatibility on their console like everybody else. Curse you Microsoft!

While I won’t be picking up a second pair of these Gamebuds, the Glorange edition is still an absolute win for PlayStation and handheld gamers. As for me, I’ll stick with my trusty Xbox-compatible set for now.

I've used a lot of gaming headsets, but ASUS has never been the company I've gone to in search of great audio.

I'll have to change my thinking moving forward after using the ASUS ROG Delta II for the last few weeks, a premium wireless gaming headset designed for Windows PC.

While priced a little high, these cans still feel like a solid value with excellent audio and a healthy suite of features. They also stand out thanks to those triangular earcups and RGB lighting.

The ROG Delta II doesn't feel quite like its price tag would suggest, though, and there are some weaknesses mixed into its bag of strengths. None of those weaknesses are enough for me to dismiss this headset as a great option for any PC gamer.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by ASUS. ASUS had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

ROG Delta II review: Cheat sheet

• What is it? A premium wireless gaming headset designed primarily for Windows PC.
• Who is it for? PC gamers looking for a unique-looking, comfortable wireless headset with excellent audio quality and plenty of software features.
• How much does it cost? The ASUS ROG Delta II costs $229.99 at ASUS. This headset is slightly more affordable elsewhere, going for $259.99 at Best Buy or $259.99 at Amazon, but is often seen on sale.
• What did I like? The audio experience, the versatile software, and the unique design.
• What did I not like? The overall fit and finish, the average microphone, the lack of wireless Xbox support.

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ROG Delta II review: Pricing and specifications

The ASUS ROG Delta II is positioned on the more premium end of the wireless PC headset segment, with a retail price of $229.99 at ASUS.

That's the most you should pay for it anywhere, but this headset is oddly priced higher at other retailers. The ROG Delta II is listed for $259.99 at Amazon and $259.99 at Best Buy, a $30 upcharge for seemingly no reason.

That being said, this headset does often seem to be discounted at those retailers to match ASUS' default pricing (or even best it), so keep an eye out for that.

In the box, you'll find the ASUS ROG Delta II wireless gaming headset, the detachable boom microphone, a USB Type-C ASUS ROG SpeedNova 2.4GHz wireless dongle, a USB Type-C to USB Type-A adapter, a USB Type-C to USB Type-A charging cable, a 3.5mm audio cable, and two sets of earcup cushions (one fabric, one faux leather).

There's no carrying/travel bag in the box, but otherwise, that's a great selection of included accessories, helping the ROG Delta II feel like a better value.

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ROG Delta II review: What I like

You can pick out any ASUS Delta gaming headset from a distance thanks to its distinct earcup design. ASUS describes it as "D-shape," but these earcups are triangular. The idea? A more comfortable and flexible fit for your ears.

With tasteful and customizable RGB lighting outlining those triangular earcups, the ROG Delta II can stand out without being distracting. There's also a helpful LED on the microphone that glows red when you're muted.

You'll find a lot of physical controls on the Delta II split across both earcups, and it's part of ASUS' unique approach to dual-mode connectivity. This headset can connect to two devices via ASUS' 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth simultaneously, and each connection has entirely separate controls.

All those controls can be confusing, and it may take you a while to fully grasp them, but it does give you a finer level of control over both your audio streams.

On the left earcup, you'll find the power switch (that handles the default 2.4GHz connection), a volume wheel that doubles as mute/unmute button, and a multifunction button for media playback controls and RGB lighting toggling.

On the right, you'll find a second volume wheel that specifically controls volume for your Bluetooth device, as well as a second multifunction button for toggling Bluetooth on and off, media playback controls, and phone call controls.

It works well and enables true multi-source audio streaming. You can listen to two different songs at once, if you'd like, but most people will probably have game audio on 2.4GHz and music or calls on Bluetooth. Either way, you don't have to worry about messing up one connection by controlling the other, and that flexibility is worth the mess of controls.

Speaking of wireless performance, the ROG Delta II was also great for me. I didn't encounter any dropped connections, stutters, or interference, even when wandering around my home while connected to two devices at once.

ASUS quotes up to 110 hours of usage, too, but that's under optimal settings. You likely won't ever see quite that level of endurance, but battery life was still excellent for me with RGB lighting enabled and dual connectivity. You can also fall back on the 3.5mm audio jack if you do run low on power.

ASUS did an admirable job tuning these titanium-plated 50mm drivers, too. The ROG Delta II has a detailed, clear, neutral sound profile that easily adapts to video games, music, movies, voice calls, and more.

Low-end bass is punchy without overwhelming the mids and highs, while mids are slightly subdued compared to treble. The ROG Delta II isn't the most dynamic or wide-sounding headset, with average separation, but this is a balanced sound that provides a great foundation you can shape to your needs — and ASUS lets you do exactly that.

You can install the full ASUS Armoury Crate software suite, but the ROG Delta II has its own lightweight "Armoury Crate Gear" app if this is your only ASUS product; I appreciate having that option a lot.

There are a lot of settings here. You have a variety of general sound optimization profiles, an 8-band equalizer with multiple presets, and toggles for the virtual 7.1 surround sound, reverb, bass boost, voice clarity, and compressor.

I left all those toggles alone to preserve the ROG Delta II's flexible acoustics (I listen to a lot of music), but that gives you a lot of utility for tuning this headset to your specific gaming needs.

Elsewhere, you'll find customization options for the RGB lighting embedded in the earcups, various power settings, a basic channel mixer, options to change the resolution and sampling rate, and a handful of basic options for the microphone.

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ROG Delta II review: What I don't like

I wasn't convinced the triangular earcups of the ROG Delta II would make a difference, but they do actually make for a surprisingly comfortable and spacious fit. No, the ROG Delta II's comfort flaws rest elsewhere.

At 318g, this is a relatively light gaming headset, and that's all thanks to its plastic build. I was never concerned the ROG Delta II would ever fall apart on me, but the headband is thin and its cushion subsequently restrained.

This headset also has a really light clamping force, making it prone to move around over time. As an added consequence, those with smaller heads may struggle to find a secure and comfortable fit.

I'll happily praise ASUS for including two separate earcup options in the box, letting you choose between breathable fabric or soft faux leather, but it can be a little finicky to replace the earcups.

The detachable, unidirectional microphone is decidedly average, too. It's more than usable enough for game chats and video conferences, but you'll notice the loss of clarity, depth, and voice isolation compared to the best headset microphones.

Despite this headset's unique dual-device audio streaming feature, it's not the best multi-platform accessory. The ROG Delta II's software is also PC-only, so you won't be able to customize your settings or audio from your phone. There's also no wireless Xbox support, so the ROG Delta II is disqualified from joining our list of the best Xbox headsets.

On top of that, you can get really good wireless gaming headsets for $200 or less, so the ROG Delta II may not feel like a good value if you're not going to use that multi-source audio streaming feature.

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ROG Delta II review: Also consider

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ROG Delta II review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You need a headset with multi-source audio streaming.
• You value having separate controls for 2.4GHz and Bluetooth.
• You fancy the triangular design and its RGB lighting.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You're looking for the best possible value (or at least Xbox support).
• You have a smaller head and need a tighter headset.

It won't take much shopping for a wireless gaming headset to discover that a lot of the best options are available in the $200 price range, and the ROG Delta II is diving into that frenzied fray from the more expensive end of the spectrum.

This headset does put up a great fight, with its D-shaped earcups offering surprising comfort, and its 50mm drivers delivering balanced and detailed sound. Capable software lets you tweak that sound to your heart's desire, too, and you don't have to stress about battery life even with the RGB lighting enabled.

The ROG Delta II possesses one unique feature to catch your attention, though, and that's multi-source audio streaming with two entirely separate control setups for 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth. Not all will need this feature, but some will find immense value in it.

If you're in the former group, you'll likely be able to find a better option elsewhere. For many, though, the ASUS ROG Delta II will be a dependable companion for $229.99 at ASUS.

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It's Amazon Gaming Week, apparently. No, I haven't heard of either, but any excuse to save money on the best Xbox headsets and best PC gaming headsets sounds pretty good to me.

It's with that in mind, that I'd like to introduce you to one of my favorite, preferred gaming headsets, now almost $100 cheaper than usual thanks to Amazon's deals event.

This is the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro wireless, armed with a digital audio controller, multi-device capabilities, a retractable mic, active noise cancelling, and many more great features.

Why the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro is a winning Xbox / PC headset

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro is a premium headset designed for users who literally want everything in a tight, single package. This headset has multiple USB ports to connect up two devices simultaneously, with a third coming through from Bluetooth. The retractable mic and active noise cancelling make them a great option for using as a lifestyle headset too, for commuting, travel, and so on. The Bluetooth also makes it useful for mixing from a second sound source, feeding sound from PC chat via USB and wirelessness and capturing audio from your Xbox via your smart TV's Bluetooth.

The digital audio controller is where all the magic happens. Ideally this sits on a desk or near your set up, and has a big dial for audio control, device swapping, and a capacitive back button for controlling menus. It's powered by the devices it's connected to, and has line-in and line-out 3.5mm audio as well for good measure.

The pièce de résistance is the digital audio controller's hot-swappable battery dock. The side plates are attached with magnets, and can be removed to easily swap out the battery to ensure you're constantly juiced.

The first version of this headset had an issue with the internal mics protruding too far into user's ears, but SteelSeries has fixed this problem on the more recent models. As a result, they're among the most comfortable and durable headsets I've used. They also sound absolutely fantastic, with high configurability and customization.

But sure, they're not "cheap," but with this 25% off deal from Amazon Gaming Week, they're far more palatable.

Corsair knows what it takes to make a great gaming headset, and in recent years, the brand prioritized sound quality, making custom 50mm drivers that gave its products a distinct edge.

That was evident when I reviewed the Virtuoso Pro last year, and Corsair took things to a whole new level with the Virtuoso Max "premium" headset.

With the Void V2, Corsair is turning its attention to the mid-range category. The headset has 50mm drivers just like its Virtuoso siblings, and while the design isn't quite as eye-catching, it has the same great build quality.

The sound quality is the best of any sub-$200 headset I've used, and it's light enough that I didn't have any issues even with extended use.

Battery life is among the best in this category, and it even gets fast charging. There's Dolby Atmos spatial audio, and the Void V2 connects over 2.4GHz alongside Bluetooth to avoid cables.

Clearly, you don't miss out on any features besides Xbox compatibility, and the best part is the affordability — coming in at $109, the headset offers fabulous value if you want to switch to better sound.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Corsair. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Void Wireless V2: Pricing, specs, and availability

Corsair unveiled the Void Wireless V2 on April 17, 2025, and the gaming headset is now available in all global markets where the brand has a presence. It's available for a $119.99 MSRP in the United States, and for £99.99 in the U.K. alongside €119.99 in various regions throughout Europe, and equivalents in other parts of the world.

Similar to Corsair's other headsets, the Void V2 offers a two-year standard warranty, and it's available in white and black variants. You can pick it up from third-party retailers like Amazon and Best Buy now.

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Void Wireless V2: Design and connectivity

Every brand has its own design aesthetic when it comes to gaming headsets, and Corsair is no different. Its designs are characterized by oblong ear cups with a distinctive yoke that attaches to the back. The headset is made out of plastic, and the matte texture ensures smudges don't show up in daily use. Build quality is terrific, and I didn't see any issues after a month of testing.

The white color variant looks cleaner, with the light grey ear cushions providing a bit of design contrast. The memory foam ear pads deliver exquisite comfort, and they're decked out in a breathable microfiber fabric that stays cool. Even after several hours of extended use, I didn't notice the slightest discomfort with the headset. That said, the oblong design means the headset may not fit everyone quite as well.

Coming in at 303g, the Void V2 is on the lighter end of the scale, and it doesn't lead to any noticeable strain after marathon gaming sessions. Corsair does a great job with RGB lighting on its headsets, and it switched out the RGB-lit logos and used two lighting zones at the front of the headset, which gives it a cleaner look.

Like most gaming headsets, the Void V2 connects via a USB receiver over 2.4GHz, and there's Bluetooth connectivity. I didn't have any issues connecting it to my gaming rig via the USB receiver, nor with my Vivo X200 Pro phone or Steam Deck. It's a bit of an annoyance that you can't just plug in the headset via USB-C, but it isn't too big a limitation — I didn't see any issues over Bluetooth, either.

The power and multifunction buttons are located on the left ear cup, with the volume control jog wheel on the underside of the left cup and the USB-C port housed next to it. The mic folds up when not in use, but it isn't detachable; that's the only quibble I have with the design of the headset.

One of the best things about the Void V2 is that it doesn't exert much clamping force — unlike the Audeze LCD-GX I tested previously — and it allows the headset to stand out as a result. Overall, Corsair did a great job with the design and build quality, and the Void V2 is one of the lightest and most comfortable headsets around today.

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Void Wireless V2: Performance

I used all the gaming headsets Corsair rolled out in the last six years, and sound quality just hasn't been a problem. That thankfully hasn't changed with the Void V2, and thanks to the custom 50mm Neodymium drivers and gaming-focused tuning, the headset sounds incredible.

There's good detail retrieval and clarity, and the Void V2 is highly enjoyable to use on Windows as well as PS5 via the USB receiver, delivering crystal-clear sound and great imaging. There's no harshness to the sound whatsoever, and it doubles quite well when listening to music or multimedia content in general. Shame there's no Xbox support, though.

The sound is highly adjustable via iCUE, and you can tweak just about every setting on the mic using Corsair's software. I don't use the built-in mic all that often as I have a Yeti Nano USB microphone on my desk, and while the mic is tucked out of the way when not in use, I would've liked a detachable option like the Virtuoso series.

There isn't a dedicated mute button either, but the mic doesn't pick up much noise when it's tucked away. It has a textured finish that makes it easy to locate, and the boom mechanism has a smooth glide. The quality of the mic itself is pretty great, and it is one of the better options you'll find in this segment.

Switching over to battery life, the Void V2 manages to last over 60 hours on a full charge, and that's just incredible; there are absolutely no issues in this area, and you'll only need to charge this headset once a week at most. There's fast charging as well, with a 15-minute charge providing six hours of usage.

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Void Wireless V2: Also consider

SteelSeries' Arctis Nova 7 is a good alternative if you need a gaming headset with great audio. It also uses Neodymium drivers and can be used with Windows, PS5, Xbox, and handheld consoles. The USB receiver is based on USB-C, and it's convenient to use. It has a comfortable fit, and while it's heavier than the Void V2, it's still good for all-day use. The battery doesn't quite last as long, but you get over 35 hours between charges, and that's quite good overall.

Void Wireless V2: Should you buy it?

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a lightweight gaming headset
• You want incredible sound quality with spatial audio
• You need all-day comfort
• You want class-leading battery life

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You need to plug in via USB-C
• You want a mic that's detachable

Corsair didn't put a foot wrong with the Void V2, besides missing out on Xbox compatibility to rank among its best options over there. The gaming headset has good build quality, and the lightweight design with memory foam cups ensures it's good for extended gaming sessions. The battery life is easily among the best of any gaming headset I've used, and there isn't any need to charge the headset more than once a week.

It's the sound quality that's the real differentiator; by using custom drivers and tweaking the sound profile to make it ideally suited for gaming, the Void V2 manages to outmatch its rivals in this key area. Honestly, the lightweight design combined with the vibrant sound and standout battery life make the Void V2 a great choice, and the affordability is the icing on the cake.

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Razer is certainly not a company that ever stands still. Besides the yearly rotation of newer, better hardware, it's also a company known for striking collaborations.

Not all that long ago, I looked at the Razer x Fortnite collection, a series of PC gaming accessories themed after Epic Games' phenomenon. There aren't many bigger games you could collaborate with, but Razer has still managed it.

Minecraft is reported as the single biggest selling video game of all time (whether it's the true leader depends on your stance on the raft of Tetris titles), and it's the latest to lend its license to Razer.

When the Fortnite collection came across my desk, I said it was my favorite design yet. But even as a non-Minecraft player, I think this new batch now takes that crown.

The fact Razer's own color is traditionally green, and Minecraft, well it has a lot of green, it just works. It's absolutely perfect.

• Razer Kraken V4 X - $99.99
• Razer BlackWidow V4 X - $169.99
• Razer Cobra - $59.99

As with the previous Fortnite collection, there are four items adorned with Minecraft paint schemes. The same keyboard has been used, in the excellent BlackWidow V4 X, but the other three Minecraft items differ.

The headset has been upgraded to the latest Razer Kraken V4 X, the mouse this time around is the Razer Cobra, and the mouse pad is the smaller Gigantus V2.

Unlike collaborations such as the Fortnite one (which was striking), Minecraft just seems to blend beautifully into Razer's existing design language. It's like the two were made for each other.

This is no more evident than on the Kraken V4 X, where Razer's signature green color blends seamlessly with the Minecraft-themed additions. This collection is all about the legendary Creepers.

On the headset, there's a face on each size of the headband, and another inside each of the earcups.

The face is also the focus on the Gigantus V2 and the Cobra mouse, with Minecraft's exploding mob surrounded by blocky grass and dirt.

I think the Cobra was a good choice here, too. This is actually the first time I've personally laid hands on one, and I like it. It's compact, comfortable, and lightweight, and crucially, one of Razer's more affordable mice.

This last point lends itself to parents buying for their Minecraft-obsessed kids. This is a particularly good mouse for younger PC gamers, especially with a Creeper's face on the right click button.

The standout design of the collection, though, is undoubtedly the keyboard. Razer's BlackWidow V4 X is excellent in its own right, but dressed up in its Minecraft colors, it's one of the best looking keyboards I've ever seen.

It's also a step-up, in my opinion, over the Fortnite version of the same keyboard, because it has green switches. Razer's green switches are what I'd go for given the choice, and I much prefer them to the yellow switches that came in the Fortnite collaboration.

Yellow switches are linear, which are arguably better for gaming, but I don't like them in regular day-to-day use. I make way too many mistakes, and the clicky greens are much better for everything that isn't gaming, while still being good when you are.

I can't stop looking at it, though. I'm not even a big Minecraft fan, but I adore this keyboard with every fiber of my being. I do have one mild criticism, mind.

The promotional materials show a special Minecraft block keycap on the Esc key. Only you don't get that included. If I was disappointed by that, I imagine I'm not the only one.

Each item comes with a code for a cosmetic, too, though there are only two. The keyboard and headset include a code for the Ender Dragon Shawl, while the others have a code for the Overgrown Arm.

As for buying them, well, as we've noted previously, Razer's U.S. store is currently not selling all of its items. The BlackWidow V4 X is currently on the "notify me" stage, but the other items are all available to at least pre-order with a current prospective shipping date of May 2. That is, except for the mouse pad, which doesn't seem to be on any of Razer's stores right now.

In other markets, such as Europe, you can buy the right now from Razer's online store. Alas, also, a final note that the headset is a USB device, and as such, Xbox gamers are excluded from using it.

• Razer Kraken V4 X - $99.99
• Razer BlackWidow V4 X - $169.99
• Razer Cobra - $59.99

HyperX has produced some top-notch gaming headsets over the years and one of the company's best works is the audio-rich and extremely comfy-to-wear, HyperX Cloud III. Both the wireless and wired versions of this headset are currently on sale at Amazon after having their MSRP cut down by over a third.

The HyperX Cloud III Wireless is sitting at $98.99 at Amazon (was $149.99) while the HyperX Cloud 3 Wired (Black/Red) is at $61.99 at Amazon (was $99.99)

Why should you buy these headsets?

The HyperX Cloud III is one of the best PC gaming headsets and the best Xbox gaming headsets we've ever had the pleasure of covering on Windows Central.

Our own headphones specialist, Rebecca Spears, even gave 4.5-star ratings to it in her review of the HyperX Cloud III Wireless headset and her review of the HyperX Cloud III Wired headset, stating that they're the perfect accessories for solo or multiplayer gaming.

How the HyperX Cloud III has earned this high praise is thanks to its advanced technological features and design.

This headset is outfitted with 53mm angled drivers installed with Surround Sound so it can produce crystal-clear audio when listening to music, in-game sound effects, and voices. The sound drivers also have Spatial Audio to help your ears pick subtle sounds more easily like footsteps or whispers.

With this, the HyperX Cloud III headset will heighten your immersion while playing games with intense sound design like Senua's Saga: Hellblade II, or aid you in detecting the sound of nearby enemies trying to sneak up behind in titles like Stalker 2 or Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.

The HyperX Cloud III also features memory foam cushioned earphones and a headband equipped with faux leatherette to keep your ears and head relaxed without causing physical strain during long hours of gaming.

Other components include Active Noise Cancelling to drown out external noises so you can only hear the game you're playing, and a detachable 10mm mic that can transmit your voice across the internet with high-quality sound with next-to-no latency and without picking up background noise.

This will allow you to chat with your teammates and friends more clearly and without outside distractions while playing online multiplayer-focused games like World of Warcraft or Monster Hunter Wilds.

To top it off, the wireless version of the HyperX Cloud III headset has an impressively long battery life of up to 120 hours before needing to recharge, so you can use it for literally days on end.

These headsets normally run for that have an MSRP that can reach up to or over $100. However, Amazon is currently selling these beauties with huge discounts that have slashed their prices by over a third.

The HyperX Cloud III Wireless has had its $149.99 MSRP cut by a 34% discount, so it's now $98.99 on Amazon (was $149.99). Meanwhile, the HyperX Cloud 3 Wired (Black/Red) had its MSRP of $99.99 cut down by 38% so it's now $61.99 at Amazon.

If you're looking to get your hands on one of the best PC gaming accessories at affordable prices as an early Easter gift for yourself or your friends and family, these discount deals are the best time to do so.

Can earbuds replace your gaming headset? SteelSeries Arctis Gamebuds say "yes."

A little while ago, SteelSeries sent over this review unit of their new(ish) Arctis Gamebuds, ANC earbuds with Bluetooth, USB-C 2.4 wireless connectivity, and mobile and PC apps to boot.

I've used a couple of "gaming" earbud options in the past, and found most of them to be fairly underwhelming. I like the idea of having a single headset that can do "everything," from gaming, to chat, to travel, to music, and so on, but so far the options out there have either been incredibly expensive, or a bit iffy.

The SteelSeries Arctis Gamebuds are the first Xbox and PC "gaming" earbuds that I feel truly check all the right boxes, across performance, features, and price. Without a doubt, in their category, they're among the best Xbox headsets you can get right now in my view.

If you're someone who has been waiting for a product like this, do read on, because there are some downsides worth mentioning.

This review was conducted with a Arctis Gamebuds unit provided by SteelSeries, running the latest firmware update downloaded via the Arctis app.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by SteelSeries. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Arctis Gamebuds: Price and specifications

The SteelSeries Arctis Gamebuds aren't the cheapest earbuds on the market, but there aren't many out there that can boast such an impressive feature set.

In the bundle, you get ear tips, two USB-C cables, a USB-C dongle for use on PC or Xbox with a toggle switch, the earbuds themselves with on-ear controls, and a 30-hour wired and wireless recharging carry case to house it all.

The whole package will set you back around $160 MSRP in the United States, although tariffs and the like could impact the price in the near term.

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Arctis Gamebuds: Build quality and features

The earbuds I typically use for travel and the like are Samsung's Galaxy Buds, and I kind of hate them. They're obviously the most compatible earbuds with my Galaxy S24, but they have such an odd shape — I'm not sure Samsung actually made them for human beings.

Thankfully, the Arctis Gamebuds are far, far more comfortable. In fact, I think they might be the most comfortable in-ear headphones I've ever used.

The Arctis Gamebuds come with a variety of tips to tailor the experience to your particular ear shape, but the curvature and soft plastic used on the outer body create a smooth sensation on the skin, complete with an impressive ergonomic fit.

RELATED: How to use Apple AirPods and other Bluetooth earbuds on Xbox

Another aspect I like here is the clicky buttons, rather than capacitive. My Galaxy Buds are prone to accidental taps and clicks when I'm doing something as simple as scratching an itch.

You have to actually activate these controls, which I feel like every headset on Earth should opt for.

Triple taps let you instantly switch between Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz signals for moving between mobile devices and your primary gaming platform. Other motions can be configured in the apps available for both PC and mobile — both of which are high-quality, with good usability and polish.

It's a bit annoying that you have to make an account to use the apps and even do basic things like update firmware, but I guess that's just where we are in 2025. Once you're in, the experience is good, with a high degree of configurability.

SteelSeries partnered with publishers to build per-game audio profiles for a variety of the world's most popular games, while also including some EQ pre-sets like Bass Boost and the like. I think more general-use pre-sets would be nice to see, but SteelSeries is often adding more via updates. And you can always create your own, too.

To make the deal a bit sweeter, the headset comes with active noise cancellation, which is something I find to be absolutely necessary for travel earbuds these days.

Since these earbuds are trying to be your "everything" device, it's good to see this included. They also have an on-click transparency mode if you need to hear another person, without having to take them out of your ears.

They're easy to set up on an Xbox and PC, too. Simply plug the USB-C dongle in directly or with the USB-A cable, and you're pretty much good to go. A switch on the dongle lets you point at Xbox or PC, which will beat out Bluetooth for signal quality generally.

Sadly, you can't mix signals like you can on some devices like this, but these days, you can listen to Spotify and take Discord calls on your Xbox directly without having to use an additional device.

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Arctis Gamebuds: Sound and microphone quality

SteelSeries nails the feature set with the Arctis Gamebuds, but how does it perform sound-wise?

Naturally, the sound stage on earbuds is going to feel more intimate than headphones with bigger drivers, which does impact positional and spatial awareness to some degree, I find.

I played Overwatch for a few hours with these yesterday, and still found them to be more than viable for pinpointing the position of Cassidys and Sombras trying to flank me.

I find the sound quality is also up there for earbuds. They're perhaps not as punchy or impressive as more expensive over-ear gaming headphones out there, like SteelSeries' own Arctis Nova or something like the new Turtle Beach Stealth 700, but they do deliver a more than adequate response.

The Arctis Gamebuds have impressive separation for earbuds. Listening to bass boosted music gives each instrument a distinct platform and clear performance, even in loud genres like death metal and the like. I would argue that the maximum volume is perhaps not as loud as I would like, but that's most likely a "me problem." Yes, I am old.

While the sound delivery into your ears is really impressive for this type of device, the sound quality your friends will be hearing may take a hit.

On-ear microphones have improved over the years in quality, but there's always going to be a trade-off when you're not using a dedicated boom mic. The trade-off here is significant, as you can hear in the above audio clip, recorded directly from the SteelSeries Arctis to my PC.

The sound quality on the mics is just about passable for basic party chat. I was using it to play competitive games like WoW and Overwatch for several evenings, and nobody complained or had an issue hearing me. But, it's still worth being aware of.

Overall, I'm more than impressed with the SteelSeries Arctis Gamebuds audio reproduction. They're great for music, easily replacing my Galaxy Buds. They're decent for gaming, and more convenient in a lot of cases given their size and rechargeability. And the features make the price point feel fair, too.

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Arctis Gamebuds: The competition

The main competition to speak of here is the Razer Hammerhead range, which I really, really wanted to like.

I generally prefer Razer for most of my gaming accessories, but the signal interference on the Razer Hammerhead Hyperspeed for Xbox was significant to the point of being unusable.

I also found the listed battery life wasn't quite up to par with reality. Even though I think they look a bit nicer than the SteelSeries, and have a more ergonomic carry case, I don't think it's worth the saving.

Indeed, they are a bit cheaper at $130 on Amazon as of writing. I would argue that the Arctis Gamebuds are significantly better overall, though, and something I would far sooner recommend for the extra $30.

The elephant in the room, potentially, is that the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) are better overall, while also being a similar RRP of $160 on Amazon. They aren't earbuds, though, and do not have active noise cancelling.

The Gamebuds are designed specifically around that form factor, and squishing the tech down into something small enough to fit into your ear is obviously a bit of extra engineering.

The SteelSeries Arctis Gamebuds are, without a doubt, the best earbuds you can get for Xbox, PC, and mobile gaming right now. But you need to want earbuds specifically to get the most value out of them.

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Arctis Gamebuds: Should you buy them?

I can't help but be thoroughly impressed with what SteelSeries has put together here. A large feature set, with Qi wireless charging, active noise cancelling, solid apps, good audio, and premium-tier comfort makes the $160 RRP absolutely worth it in my view.

There aren't many gaming earbuds on the market that are fully wirelessly compatible with Xbox, but of the few out there, the SteelSeries Arctis Gamebuds are the best.

✅ You should buy this if ...

• You want a truly "everything" headset for Xbox and PC gaming, music, travel, and beyond.
• You don't mind spending a bit more for things like ANC.
• You're specifically looking for earbuds for Xbox and PC gaming.

❌ You should not buy this if ...

• You're not planning to use them everywhere. There are better dedicated headsets for gaming for a similar price.

Yes, there are better dedicated headphones for a similar price for Xbox, and better dedicated earbuds for music on mobile, but if you want a device that can do it all — the SteelSeries Arctis Earbuds are your best option right now.

If you have any questions about them, hit the comments!

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The Turtle Beach Stealth Pro has long reigned as our best in slot pick for an Xbox gaming headset, only recently dethroned by another Turtle Beach model that's easier on the wallet. As incredible as the Stealth Pro is, its usual $329.99 price tag makes it a hard sell—because despite how fantastic it is, who wants to spend over $300 on a headset? Not me, and I’m guessing not many other people either.

But it's sale season, and while scrolling for anything that could outshine Black Friday deals, I stumbled on a frankly crazy discount on this headset: Woot is listing the Stealth Pro for $119.99. That’s a ridiculous $210 discount.

For comparison it’s currently 'on sale' for $229 on Amazon. So why pay more when Woot are an Amazon outlet and you get the same free delivery with Prime?

Deals like this are usually one per customer and move fast. If this price has you as baffled as I am, don’t wait, grab it now.

Why is the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro our top Xbox headset?

It’s not every day our Managing Editor Jez Corden hands out a 5-star rating for a headset. In fact, only two others on our list of the best Xbox headsets have earned that honor—and neither of them are anywhere near as affordable as $110 right now.

The list of reasons this headset impressed us so much is long. With maximum comfort, premium build quality, swappable batteries, seamless Bluetooth, Xbox wireless sound mixing, a great mic, intuitive on-ear controls (deep breath) AND a sleek design, the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro is practically perfect in every way. It’s the Mary Poppins of Xbox headsets.

Innovation in the headset has felt a bit stale in previous years, and the Stealth Pro was a really big swing for Turtle Beach into the premium market. Usually cramming so many features in impacts performance or style in one way or another, but the headset still impressed us across the board.

One standout feature is its ability to mix Bluetooth audio with Xbox gameplay, making it a godsend for content creators juggling multiple sound sources or anyone wanting to chat with friends on other platforms while gaming.

It also manages to avoid the usual interference issues that plague similar headsets. Even in our editor’s tech-heavy office where wireless signals go to die, it maintained a reliable connection across both sources for hours.

The build quality of the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro is excellent, offering a broader size range for those with larger heads. The over-ear cups are more spacious than most competitors too.

As for audio quality, it’s simply fantastic. Turtle Beach’s signature tactical tuning enhances sound ranges to help pinpoint enemy positions in games. Still, you can disable it for a more cinematic, bass-heavy experience that’s perfect for movies, music, and single-player games.

If you want to know more, check out the full Turtle Beach Stealth Pro review for all the details. Just don’t wait too long, Woot’s deals tend to disappear quickly, and $119.99 is genuinally a ridiculous price for this bit of kit.

Razer is one of the most popular solutions to all your PC and console gaming needs, with accessories, peripherals, and devices in almost every category you can imagine. That alone has sold millions, but Razer also regularly does collaborations with other companies and brands to appeal to the mega-fans that want something a little more unique.

I recently went hands-on with a new exclusive "Hello Kitty Edition" of one of Razer's best-selling gaming headsets, but that collaboration didn't personally speak to me. Now, Razer has dropped a new collection centered around the greatest character from the Hello Kitty universe. The arrival of everyone's favorite gothic rabbit girl, Kuromi, has led to some of the best-designed special edition products I've ever seen from Razer.

There's some really cool stuff here for fans and collectors... But none of this gear is anything I actually want to add to my setup. I'm reminded yet again that Razer's best rarely receives the special edition treatment.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Razer. Razer had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Breaking down the entire Razer Kuromi collection

The Razer Kuromi collection comprises six products, of which two are part of one bundle (so five things you can purchase). Each product boasts a unique black-and-purple design, complete with Kuromi herself and a healthy amount of Kuromi-related iconography (such as her iconic skull). Unfortunately, each Kuromi Edition does come with a premium up charge compared to the standard variants.

Here's everything in the Razer Kuromi collection:

• Razer Enki X Kuromi Edition Chair for $549.99 at Razer (instead of $399.99 for the standard black-and-green model)
• Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT Kuromi Edition Headset for $129.99 at Razer (instead of $99.99 for the standard model or $139.99 for the Hello Kitty special edition)
• Razer Oranta V3 Tenkeyless Kuromi Edition Keyboard for $119.99 at Razer (instead of $69.99 for the standard model)
• Razer DeathAdder Essential Mouse & Goliathus Mousepad Bundle for $69.99 at Razer (instead of $29.99 for the standard bundle)
• Razer Leviathan V2 X Kuromi Edition Soundbar for $129.99 at Razer (instead of $99.99 for the standard model)
• Bonus: Razer Skins Kuromi Edition for...
  • Nintendo Switch OLED for $19.99 at Target
  • Nintendo Switch for $19.99 at Target
  • Nintendo Switch Lite for $14.99 at Target

All in all, you'd be paying an additional $300 for the complete bundle compared to what you'd pay if you bought this exact setup but without the Kuromi additions. That's a pretty steep increase, especially considering all of these products firmly belong in the "budget" category of Razer's catalog. There's no way to buy everything as a set, but you can learn more about the Razer Kuromi collection at Razer.com.

Everything but the gaming chair is also available to purchase from Target. You can find those links below (and the links for the Nintendo Switch skins above).

A brief hands-on with each Razer Kuromi accessory

Razer was kind enough to send me the entire Kuromi collection, so I was able to go hands-on with it all. Enjoy some pictures and my quick impressions on each product, followed by my conclusion detailing exactly who should buy these special editions... and who should not.

Razer Enki X Kuromi Edition

First off, we have what I think is the best-looking product in the entire Razer Kuromi collection. This is a Razer Enki X gaming chair (which we reviewed), one of Razer's most affordable chairs in its growing lineup. Of course, this Enki X boasts a special livery, and it's actually pretty thorough. The predominantly black design has been replaced by broad swathes of cross-hatched purple fabric, purple stitching, and a ton of cool details.

You have the Razer logo emblazoned in matching purple, Kuromi's iconic skulls below the headrest, and Kuromi herself striking a pose on the back of the chair. This isn't a cheap reskin, nor did Razer haphazardly slap a million tiny Kuromi's onto the existing Enki X and call it a day. I really like how this chair looks, and it is a decent gaming chair beyond the epic aesthetics. Well, the Razer Enki X is, at its normal pricing, but the Kuromi Edition is a lot more expensive, and you're still confined to static lumbar support and relatively limited adjustability.

Usually retailing for $400, the Razer Enki X Kuromi Edition is $549.99 at Razer. Yeah, that's a $150 up charge for nothing more than an alternative design. That design may be awesome and the quality may be there, but you're entering Secretlab territory with that pricing... and the Razer Enki X just isn't as nice as the Secretlab TITAN Evo.

Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT Kuromi Edition

If you already owned the white-and-pink Hello Kitty variant of this headset, now you can add its black-and-purple counterpart to your collection. When I first saw the former, I thought that Razer probably could've done better — and I was right! This headset looks great, and it's also easier to recommend than the Enki X chair... As long as you're looking for a budget wireless headset to fulfil your needs.

The matte black plastic and purple cushions are obvious, but Razer also attuned the built-in Chroma lighting to Kuromi's iconic color scheme and added some other details. The Kraken Kitty V2's cat ears have also been replaced with... Well, they're not ears. I guess the points on Kuromi's hat thing? Whatever you call it, it certainly gives this headset a unique profile. On the inside, it's the same Kraken Kitty V2 with Razer's familiar sound tuning, 2.4GHz wireless connectivity for PC gaming, and Bluetooth connectivity for everything else.

Build quality isn't exceptional, but that's a characteristic of the headset. The Kuromi Edition alterations are not casual, and there's no danger of your special edition become less "special" over time. If you're interested, you can get the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT Kuromi Edition for $129.99 at Razer, which is $30 more than the standard version (that's a fair — if still unwelcome — premium, in my opinion).

Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless Kuromi Edition

Next, we have the Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless, Razer's cost-effective low-profile wired gaming keyboard. This is a solid keyboard for those who don't need anything fancy, as you're getting solid key action, good software support, and Razer Chroma RGB lighting for some added customization. Of course, this version defaults to Kuromi's purple, because it wouldn't make sense otherwise.

As far as special editions are concerned, this one may be the most modest (if only because there's so much Razer could've done). Yes, all the keycaps are purple, and you get some cute Kuromis and other icons scattered around the keyboard, but most of the cool factor comes from the magnetically attached wrist rest in the box. Razer could've done more with a unique font, maybe Kuromi-fied icons for special keys, and even a custom "Escape" key (which seems to be the first key to get its own personality).

I love how this keyboard looks and the Ornata V3 Tenkeyless is a really solid low-profile keyboard, but it's hard to look past what could've been when the Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless Kuromi Edition costs $119.99 at Razer, which is a full $50 more than the normal version. To call that a major price increase would be an understatement, as you can start thinking about building your own custom Kuromi keyboard at that point.

Razer DeathAdder Essential & Goliathus Bundle Kuromi Edition

This is the least interesting item in the Razer Kuromi collection, but it's for a different reason than the Ornata V3 Tenkeyless keyboard. Razer honestly did a commendable job transforming the budget-tier DeathAdder Essential wired gaming mouse, with grippy pink sides and scroll wheel, a patterned top that blends seamlessly into the buttons, and a glowing purple skull to replace the Razer logo the Kuromi fans don't want.

The Goliathus mousepad is a great option for those that simply need a reliable soft mat for their mouse, and the Kuromi Edition is the same. There's purple stitching along the edges and a randomized Kuromi-themed pattern (with Kuromi herself in the center), and that's it... But what more could you ask for? No, I have no issue with how Razer designed these products, but I do take issue with how this bundle is priced. You see, the Razer DeathAdder Essential & Goliathus Bundle only costs $30 — for lack of better words, it's Razer's cheapest entry in its mouse lineup, for those who really don't want to spend a lot for a dependable gaming mouse.

The Razer DeathAdder Essential & Goliathus Bundle Kuromi Edition, on the other hand, is $69.99 at Razer. That's a ridiculous mark-up, seeing as you can get a dramatically better mouse (and still get an equivalent mouse pad) at that point. Don't get this unless you're a collector or mega Kuromi fan.

Razer Leviathan V2 X Kuromi Edition

Finally, we have what's probably my second favorite entry in the Razer Kuromi collection. The Razer Leviathan V2 X is the company's most affordable PC soundbar, so it's not the fanciest around, but it boasts an attractive and compact design alongside solid sound quality and just enough features to make it interesting. The Kuromi Edition has all of that, but it looks much better than the boring standard version.

You're looking at wired USB Type-C audio for your PC, Bluetooth 5.0 for all your wireless devices, Razer's tuned dynamic drivers, and a series of built-in controls so you don't need any additional software. Of course, you can always install Razer Synapse if you want to customize the 10-band equalizer or the 14 Razer Chroma RGB lighting zones. The Kuromi Edition swaps out the front-facing black fabric for purple, does the same to the buttons, and wraps the entire soundbar in randomized Kuromi-themed icons. Look closely, and you'll find Kuromi on the top and her iconic skulls on either side.

I really appreciate the simple design of this soundbar, and it's a solid option for those who don't need a luxury or hi-fi audio setup. You're not going to impress the guests, but it's good enough for casual music listening and gaming. The Razer Leviathan V2 X Kuromi Edition is $129.99 at Razer, so $30 more than the standard version... Which also feels reasonable, no matter how much I wish we didn't have to pay extra.

Awesome collectibles, but not for my personal use

Purely from a design perspective, I do believe that the Razer Kuromi collection is one of the company's finest collaborations. The consistency, attention to detail, and awesome color scheme make these some of the striking products in Razer's catalog. Sadly, they're also not the products I want to use, and most people probably won't want to pony up the premium just for special editions of these products.

That's because Razer only gave its most affordable accessories (and chair) the Kuromi Edition treatment, which leaves a lot of gamers out of the fun. It makes sense from a business perspective — Razer doesn't want to make a niche special edition of a niche premium product that already sells low volume. Any premium for the Kuromi branding on a product that's already meant to be as cheap as possible immediately makes that product a lot less desirable.

I can't seriously recommend anyone but hardcore gaming collectors and the biggest Kuromi fans spend over twice as much for a budget mouse and simple mousepad just because it has Kuromi on it; or spend an additional $150 on a gaming chair when there are better options at that price; or drop an additional $50 on a keyboard when it has never been easier to build your own, custom dream keyboard. The headset and soundbar are still approachable enough to be forgiven, but I do feel like a lot of people are going to be turned off to some epic special editions because they either cost too much or they aren't the products they want to use.

If one of the Razer Kuromi collection products did catch your eye, you can go back to its section to find the links you need. I'm going to go back to using the Razer gear I know and love... Maybe I'll buy some Kuromi stickers so I can pretend.

The new HyperX Cloud MIX 2 is a wireless gaming headset that's built to keep on going, initally announced at HP's Imagine 2024 conference.

Have you ever wanted to grab a headset and barely worry about recharging it? You're not alone because that's the entire pitch behind this latest offering.

HP's HyperX lineup spans a number of wired and wireless headsets that suit different needs based on the devices you use. With the HyperX Cloud MIX 2, the company claims this headset has the best battery life of any Bluetooth headphones that are currently available. After extensive testing, I can confirm that impressive candor.

Naturally, that kind of bullet point does come at a cost, and the HyperX Cloud MIX 2 is more expensive than many of HP's other headsets. Still, if you've got the cash, it's worth the asking price for this impressive follow-up to its middling Cloud MIX predecessor.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by HP. The company did not see the contents of this review prior to publication.

HyperX Cloud MIX 2: Pricing and specifications

Unpacking the headset, everything you need is included in a sturdy carrying case. In addition to the USB-C charging cable and a 3.5mm audio cable, the headset also comes with a USB 2.4GHz wireless dongle that allows it to be paired with different devices.

This headset is clearly designed as a meaningful generational leap over the original HyperX Cloud MIX, retaining optional wired support while being packed with more features and compatibility and, above all, better battery life compared to its predecessor's 20-hour charge. Ultimately, this is a wireless headset first, and it accomplishes that goal in spades. All those improvements also come with a bumped price.

The HyperX Cloud MIX 2 is available from HP for $199, up from the original model's $170 launch price, though it's worth noting that at the time I'm writing this, there's a $40 discount on the Cloud MIX 2, meaning you can snag it for just $159 if you act quickly.

HyperX Cloud MIX 2

HyperX Cloud MIX 2: The Good

I was immediately happy with the build quality of the HyperX Cloud MIX 2. It's flexible but sturdy, with a solid (but not bulky) structure. It feels comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time, like when I have music on while working. Comfort is a big concern for me because I wear eyeglasses, and I've had plenty of headsets that either pinched me right away or felt comfortable at first, only to be more painful as time went on. None of that happened here, and the HyperX Cloud MIX 2 is as comfortable to put on now as when I first began testing it.

The audio quality is fairly solid, with slightly warm tones that make listening to music pleasant. I found some game audio to be just a hair flatter, but playing around with the balance provided a nice experience, regardless of whether I was dodging energy beams in Helldivers 2 or going for another round in Balatro.

One big feature is the active noise cancellation, and while I'm not someone who usually utilizes this (I have cats and prefer to be able to hear if one of them needs something) the noise cancelling works extremely well, locking out most everyday noises. This is perfect for anyone who has a hard time focusing with distracting sounds in the background.

The ultimate selling point is the battery, though, and that's where this headset excels. HyperX claims that the Cloud MIX 2 can run for 110 hours in Bluetooth 5.3 mode, and that's held up to be true so far. The company notes that battery life is reduced to a still-impressive 72 hours if you're using the 2.4GHz wireless dongle. Either mode will see a further reduction in battery life if active noise cancellation is enabled.

At least so far, these estimates seem accurate, with the battery holding up for over 100 hours of various mixed usage before I had to charge it, even after I accidentally left it on overnight. It's amusing, but by far, the hardest part of testing this headset was just getting the battery life to drain so I could charge it.

Given the impressive battery capacity, it's quick to charge, going from about 10% to 25% in mere minutes, with a full charge taking just over an hour after I plugged the headset into my desktop. This is easily the best battery life available in any gaming headset right now, to the point where the average user would only need to charge it once a week or so.

HyperX Cloud MIX 2: The Bad

Despite HyperX touting the headset's AI-enhanced microphones, I found the audio quality of any recordings to be thoroughly mediocre. It's not outright bad, and the reduction of background noise means your voice is isolated well, but it's not impressive either, and the noise reduction simultaneously means you might need to raise your voice if you're naturally soft-spoken.

Personally, I'd recommend that if you're already using a standalone mic for playing multiplayer games on PC or recording videos, you keep doing that.

While I'm largely a fan of the overall design, I do have a small complaint. The volume wheel on the bottom of the headset is certainly easy to use, but it's also easy to accidentally bump when you are taking it on and off. More than once, I gave myself a shock because I'd accidentally dramatically raised the volume of something simply by putting the headset on, so it's something to be mindful of.

HyperX Cloud MIX 2: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You want a headset with amazing battery life

I can't say enough good things about the HyperX Cloud MIX 2's battery life. It lives up to the company's claims and over-delivers for most needs. I can truly just forget about having to charge it beyond once a week, meaning it's awesome to use for extended periods of time.

✅You want a comfortable headset compatible with PC, PlayStation, and mobile devices

Anyone playing PC or PlayStation games should consider grabbing this headset, so long as they have the cash. The dongle means it's easily adapted between different devices, and it's also perfect for using with your phone if you want to listen to music while cleaning or cooking.

You should not buy this if ...

❌You need a headset with amazing microphone quality

Again, the Hyper Cloud MIX 2's microphone isn't bad; it's just not something that stands out compared to the general quality that the rest of the headset provides, especially when it's carrying a $200 price tag.

❌You need something that'll also work on Xbox consoles

Because Xbox uses a dedicated wireless protocol, you need to get an officially licensed headset to make sure it'll work with your Xbox Series X|S. This isn't a knock against the HyperX Cloud MIX 2; it's just something to be aware of when making your purchases.

I've really enjoyed using the HyperX Cloud MIX 2. Any skepticism I had about the 110-hour battery life claim quickly evaporated once I started testing, and it's kept on going without any real problems. Taking the headset from a full charge through a lengthy gaming session, then continuing to use it while going and washing dishes, cooking, fixing a drink, reading, and seeing the battery has barely drained, is really impressive.

Indeed, outside of being thoroughly whelmed by the microphone quality, my only real complaint is the aforementioned ergonomics of the volume wheel, which protrudes just enough to be easily bumped and jostled.

With the HyperX Cloud MIX 2 now available for $200 from HP (and temporarily on sale for $160), it's easy for me to recommend it as long as you don't mind the price.

Whatever your reasoning, sometimes all you really need is a single headset that you can hook up to your PC at home for gaming sessions and connect to your phone while on the go.

Out of Razer's multiple families of gaming headsets, the "Barracuda" line is the one most suited to this purpose, with sleeker designs that don't scream "gamer" at first glance. The Razer Barracuda X is the most affordable in the lineup, and now it's joined by a Chroma variant, a mid-gen upgrade that makes some notable changes and — as Razer absolutely loves to do — adds plenty of customizable RGB lighting.

The Razer Barracuda X Chroma is still a solid wireless gaming headset that is flexible enough to adjust to whatever you want to do or listen to, but this refresh overall feels a tad odd. There are some upgrades, but you're largely paying more for the addition of that RGB lighting — which doesn't make as much sense when you're talking about an entry-level wireless headset. On top of that, you're actually losing a feature compared to the non-Chroma Barracuda X, which is still available at a lower price.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Razer. Razer had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Barracuda X Chroma: Pricing and specifications

• The Razer Barracuda X Chroma retails for $130.
• This is $30 more than the regular Barracuda X, which is still available.

The Razer Barracuda X Chroma is largely very similar to its predecessor, enough that there's no "V2" moniker to indicate a generational leap forward. The overall design and dimensions are nearly identical, and many of the capabilities are shared between the two headsets as well. As a quick rundown, the Barracuda X Chroma gains 6-zone RGB lighting in each earcup, improved battery life, more weight, better Bluetooth connectivity, an enhanced microphone, and no wired audio.

The Razer Barracuda X Chroma retails for $129.99 at Best Buy. In comparison, the existing Razer Barracuda X is still available for $99.99 at Best Buy, and it often goes on sale for as low as $70. Given the modest list of upgrades, many people might be better served saving that $30+ and opting for the non-Chroma Barracuda X instead.

In the box, you'll find the Razer Barracuda X Chroma wireless gaming headset, the detachable Razer HyperClear Cardioid microphone and its external pop filter, a USB Type-C Razer HyperSpeed 2.4GHz wireless dongle, a USB Type-C to USB Type-A adapter, a basic felt travel bag, and a braided USB Type-C to USB Type-C charging cable. This headset is covered by Razer's 2-year standard warranty.

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Barracuda X Chroma: The good

• The new RGB lighting is very tastefully done, enhancing the design.
• For the price, this headset also has a warm, pleasant sound profile.
• Wireless performance is excellent, and it's easy to switch devices.

The Razer Barracuda X already boasted a sleek, muted design that feels right at home on any head or in any situation, and the Barracuda X Chroma simply adds customizable lighting to the equation. Razer implemented that lighting in the best possible way, though, resulting in an incredibly clean look that gives you a ton of flexibility to customize the way you want it.

The Barracuda X Chroma is still a comfortable headset to wear, too, despite weighing more than its predecessor. The clamping force balance is nearly perfect (it could be just a tad tighter) and the fabric cushions are both soft and breathable. Build quality is exactly what I expect from a ~$100 headset — the materials aren't exceptional, but everything is at least put together well.

Around the edges, you'll find your USB Type-C charging port, an audio jack for the detachable microphone, a volume dial, a mute switch, the power button, and Razer's SmartSwitch button. That sounds like a lot, but the system is intuitive; the power button doubles as media controls (play, pause, next track, and previous track), and the SmartSwitch button lets you switch connectivity modes and onboard EQ profiles.

That SmartSwitch button works well, too, with reliable and quick connections across Bluetooth and 2.4GHz. It's nice to have four onboard EQs, and the fourth is a "Custom" EQ that you can configure in Razer Synapse or the Razer Audio app on Android and iOS.

Don the Barracuda X Chroma, and you'll be met with a familiar listening experience. This headset is powered by Razer's tried-and-true TriForce 40mm drivers, which deliver a well-balanced, warm, and pleasing sound whether you're playing games or listening to music. The Barracuda X doesn't have a pulsing low-end or the clearest highs, but it's still more than acceptable for the price and is responsive enough to keep up with the most competitive games.

You'll be able to use it for quite a while, too. The Razer Barracuda X Chroma did upgrade its endurance over its predecessor, jumping from 50 hours of listening time to a cool 70. Of course, that's when the RGB lighting is disabled — with the Chroma lights activated, you're looking at closer to 30 hours. Fortunately, Razer's estimates do feel accurate, like usual, and it's easy enough to disable that lighting for some extended endurance (sadly, there's no way to do so with just the headset, though).

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Barracuda X Chroma: The bad

• RGB lighting is a luxury addition that needlessly increases cost.
• The Barracuda X Chroma ultimately doesn't feel like a major upgrade.
• This is especially true of the microphone, which is decidedly average.

RGB lighting is a "luxury" feature usually reserved for the most premium gaming hardware and accessories, and that association is strong enough that many smaller brands will laden their cheapest products with poor RGB LEDs to give the impression of higher quality. There's no practical reason to include RGB, after all, and it ultimately only adds cost.

This is where the Razer Barracuda X Chroma comes in. Razer took one of its most affordable wireless gaming headsets, made a handful of minor upgrades, added RGB lighting, and then bumped the pricing up by 30%. It's hard not to feel like this is a side-grade at best, with the Barracuda X Chroma nowhere near the value that its older sibling is (and continues to be since Razer is still selling it). That feels even more obvious when you remember the RGB lighting is mostly for other people since you can't see your own ears.

Longer battery life is great, but the Barracuda X Chroma will actually die faster if you use its exclusive lighting. You're also gaining 35g in weight (a noticeable increase) and losing support for 3.5mm wired audio. That's enough to offset any of the other minor upgrades, including improved wireless performance, better software support, onboard EQ profiles, and the upgraded microphone. Speaking of that...

Retaining the "HyperClear Cardioid" branding of Razer's more modest headset mics, the Barracuda X Chroma's detachable, unidirectional microphone not only has a tendency to sporadically not work but also sounds average at best. This is a quiet microphone, so you'll have to turn up the mic volume, and you won't find any options to finetune or customize your recording experience apart from enabling sidetone monitoring.

Because it's detachable and not retractable (and the Barracuda X Chroma boasts no built-in mics), you'll also need to lug it around if you want to use this headset to take phone calls.

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Barracuda X Chroma: Also consider

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Barracuda X Chroma: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You want a sleek, straightforward headset for gaming and media consumption

The Razer Barracuda X Chroma is designed to be a multi-platform, multi-purpose wireless headset, and it does achieve that goal. It has a sleek, unobtrusive design, a pleasing and balanced sound, and reliable battery life.

✅You really want that RGB lighting

The Barracuda X Chroma admittedly features some of the most well-done RGB lighting I've seen in any gaming headset, and it looks fantastic (on top of giving you a ton of customization options). If you value that enough to pay a little extra for it, this headset won't let you down.

You should not buy this if ...

❌You're looking for function over form at a great price

For $130, the Barracuda X Chroma simply isn't the great value that its predecessor continues to be, especially when the older Barracuda X is regularly found on sale. You're clearly paying a premium for that RGB lighting, but more affordable headsets can match or even beat the Barracuda X Chroma in practicality.

I actually really like the Razer Barracuda X Chroma. It's an accessible, comfortable, and balanced wireless headset that I can wear for long periods of time and trust just as much with gaming as with music. It also looks amazing, and the RGB lighting is genuinely very well done. The Barracuda X Chroma doesn't exist in a vacuum, though, and it's overshadowed in some ways by the headset that came before it.

You can still buy the Razer Barracuda X, and when it can be found for as much as $60 less than the Barracuda X Chroma, it's hard to justify trading a lower weight, and wired audio support for RGB lighting, slightly longer battery life, and minor upgrades to the wireless connectivity, microphone, and software features. I couldn't blame you for really liking how the Barracuda X Chroma looks, though, especially that stunning two-tone white colorway (I honestly wish I had requested that color from Razer to review instead).

You can now buy the Razer Barracuda X Chroma for $129.99 at Best Buy, giving you the opportunity to pay a little more to stand out a lot more. There's still no Xbox support, though.

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Corsair is back with a premium headset offering for Xbox and PC users in its Virtuoso Max.

Appropriately named, the Virtuoso Max is designed for the connoisseur of the Xbox and PC gaming audio world, complete with a maximum emphasis on features.

Active noise cancelling joins Bluetooth 5.3 simultaneous audio. 50mm graphene drivers meet RGB ear cups. Wrapped in generous memory foam leather and a surprisingly broad amount of adjustability, the Virtuoso Max is a similarly surprising $329.99 to buy new.

That's a lot of 'bones per headset', or 'BPH' as I'm going to call it from now on. The last headset I reviewed from Corsair was the very capable HS75 XB, which seemed to have a relatively short run despite being a fantastic option.

Xbox is quite a competitive space when it comes to headsets right now, and Corsair finds itself with a variety of rather strong competitors as we head into 2025.

Does the ratio of price-to-premium add up for the Corsair Virtuoso Max? Will it land on my best Xbox headsets list? Let's review together.

This review was conducted with a Virtuoso Max headset unit provided by Corsair. The company did not view the contents of this article before publication.

Corsair Virtuoso Max: Specifications and price

The Virtuoso Max is an impressive product on paper, sporting many of the central features many of us have come to expect of the high-end. On the spec sheet, you'll see a simultaneous 2.4 GHz wireless USB radio with Bluetooth 5.3. There are also 50mm graphene drivers that run up to 40 kHz, which is not something you often see in a gaming headset, and Corsair also includes active noise canceling (ANC) for good measure.

My sample is the 'Xbox version' of this headset, which costs the same as its non-Xbox counterpart, save for the fact it also supports Xbox. The other version is identical but doesn't support Xbox, likely owing to some licensing requirements from Microsoft.

In any case, this is an ultra-multiplatform beast, supporting Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and Bluetooth devices in a single package — and ultimately, that's who it's for. The Corsair Virtuoso Max is for the gamer who wants a device for literally every scenario where you might need a headset.

The Corsair Virtuoso Max is available practically everywhere, and anywhere you might want to buy a headset, although the Xbox version seems a little harder to come by. The standard version is all you need if you don't need to add Xbox into the mix, but they both cost the same either way. That cost is $329.99 at Amazon, putting it up there with the likes of other premium options like the Astro A50 and the Audeze Maxwell.

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Corsair Virtuoso Max: Features, design, and comfort

The last time I reviewed a Corsair headset, it was the impressive HS75 XB designed for the Xbox One. Although that was a no-frills affair, it was a huge insight into Corsair's potential as a headset manufacturer as someone who hadn't experienced their products before. Fast forward a few years, and Corsair has been building an impressive range of headsets up and down the price spectrum, culminating in this: the all-singing, all-dancing Corsair Virtuoso Max.

This headset is ultimately designed to be used in every imaginable scenario where you'd need a headset, and that design intent can be seen throughout the product at every angle.

First and foremost, it looks fantastic and might be among the best-looking headsets I've seen recently. Clearly targeting the fashion-conscious user, it has a very premium finish with metal accents and a razor-thin RGB light ring running around each earcup. Indeed, coupled with active noise canceling and Bluetooth playback capabilities, it's clear Corsair wanted to make sure this headset would look right at home when playing Xbox from the sofa or ambient-muting irritating plane noise while gaming on a flight. The mic is detachable to that end, too, if you're going mobile.

The headset has fabric ear cups, which I'm not always a huge fan of. Although I have sensitive skin, I generally prefer either leatherette style or finer satin-style fabric on my ears. I also find the coarser fabric to be a bit of a heat trap, although it's ultimately subjective to your preferences. The cushioning is thick and generous in any case and should ensure lengthy and very comfortable gaming sessions when paired with its ~60-hour battery life. I just wish they'd used the leather from the carrying case on the earcups instead.

Another impressively generous aspect is its adjustability. I have a pretty large head (figuratively and literally), so generally, I find myself maxing out the sliders when reviewing headsets. However, on this, I only needed to go halfway before it was slipping off my head. I think even Andre the Giant would feel reassured by this product, which is a strong plus for anyone seeking a headset specifically for that reason.

The Corsair Virtuoso Max is recharged using a USB-C braided cable included in the box, which also comes with a hard shell carry case for good measure. It connects to mobile devices via Bluetooth 5.3 and to Xbox and PC with a USB dongle that automatically detects the device it's plugged into. It has Dolby Atmos support on board, too, which is a nice bonus.

The on-ear controls on the Corsair Virtuoso Max are more than adequate. They sport large dials for controlling volume across devices via the USB dongle or Bluetooth and have specific inputs on the right side for controlling Spotify and similar apps. The action on the buttons is solid and reassuring, continuing the "premium" theme running throughout.

The right cup also has a custom button for cycling between EQ pre-sets you can set up via Corsair's iCUE app software, in addition to a long-press for cycling between active noise canceling modes. It has an integrated voice that chimes up when you're muting and unmuting the headset, but it's oddly quiet when you're cycling through ANC modes, or EQ pre-sets, relying on tones instead.

On paper, we have a ton of great features here. We have a stunning visual design, we have a comfortable profile, and massive battery life. How does it sound, though?

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Corsair Virtuoso Max: Audio and mic experience

I spent several hours listening to all types of audio with this headset, maxed out quality where applicable, across both PC, mobile, and Xbox Series X. There are aspects of the sound profile that are absolutely immaculate, but there are a few frustrations that prevent it from getting top marks in this area.

The Corsair Virtuoso Max has 50mm graphene drivers that offer a compelling soundscape. The out-of-the-box "balanced" sound profile, I didn't find to be particularly awe-inspiring, but the bass boost pre-set felt more representative of what this headset is capable of. Heady bass that other headsets might struggle with comes through warm and smooth here, shining in both cinematic action games and music alike.

The soundscape also lends itself incredibly well to tactical play, with strong separation buoyed further by Dolby Atmos. Valorant and Call of Duty will flood your ears and give away enemy positions at will, although sadly, it won't help you with skill gaps directly.

If there's one criticism of the headset's limitations that I felt immediately, it's that its max volume isn't very generous. Maybe I'm just getting harder of hearing as I get older, but it was fairly noticeable even when compared to my aging and battered Samsung Galaxy Buds. Still, I think that, for most people, they'll probably be more than fine. However, there are some aspects of the soundscape I think most people probably won't be fine with.

This is a headset that works across all devices all the time, everywhere, all at once, you know, like the movie. To that end, it comes with active noise-canceling capabilities, which have become popular in recent years for commuters and travelers. I love the ANC on my Samsung Galaxy Buds for long flights and train rides, and I can't imagine going without it now.

Microphones on the headset record, analyze and then introduce a soundwave that cancels out the external noise. When it works well, it's great. However, I think Corsair needed to make some tweaks here. I found that when ANC was turned on, even in a relatively quiet place, it introduced distortion at times into the audio.

Admittedly, you have to really listen for it, but I found it was quite easy to reproduce simply by turning my desk fan on and off, which isn't ideal. I found that certain frequencies can also trigger distortion and interference sounds, especially in the high-mids.

I hope it's something that could be fixed with firmware because the alternative is some kind of electrical design flaw that allows for interference. At this point, it's hard to tell. I will say that it's quite subtle and something you'd have to listen out for. I'm someone who listens to a lot of music and would seek to use a product like this beyond its Xbox configuration.

Generally, the headset is performant all up and down the spectrum, but you might be listening to a certain piece of music at a certain moment and get hit with noticeable distortion because the rest of the soundscape presents so cleanly otherwise. It's almost like the quality bar set by the full range is set so high that it ends up disproportionately let down by a couple of small inconsistencies on the low highs and upper mids.

Corsair describes its Virtuoso Max as having a broadcast-grade mic, but I'm not sure I'd necessarily agree. It's not terrible, as you can hear in the recording above, but the mid-range blows out the reproduction a little bit too much. Another downside is the sidetone here, too. It's far too quiet, and this was an issue on the HS75 XB as well in years past. You practically have to have the microphone on your lips for the sidetone to produce any sound, even set to maximum volume in iCUE, which is a shame if you like sidetone. I know not everybody wants it, though.

It's a shame that the Virtuoso Max misses out on top marks for audio. Given the price ask, I had fairly high hopes for an immaculate sound experience, and it comes very close. When listening to audio that sidesteps the problem frequencies with ANC turned off, it's absolutely stunning and sounds like someone shrank an IMAX cinema system and put it on your head.

But then, the distortion slams you in the side of the head like an inconsiderate teenager throwing popcorn from the back of the room in that very same theatre. Hopefully, it's something that can be solved with firmware updates, and I've noticed the Virtuoso Max has already had a couple come through since I received my sample unit.

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Corsair Virtuoso Max: Competition

This part is tough because while admittedly the audio issues I hit are quite niche and subtle and, perhaps, I'm uniquely susceptible for some biological reason — I'm here to compare and contrast to other products I've reviewed. At this price point, there are a lot of very strong alternatives, but problematically, there are strong alternatives at a far lower price point, too.

The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) might not have ANC or a detachable mic, and it also isn't the most "fashion-conscious" headset on the market for mobile use. However, it is over $100 cheaper while having arguably comparable sound — and perhaps even better sound if the distortion issues are universal.

The Astro A50, also from this year, perhaps doesn't sound quite as impressive as the Virtuoso Max, but it does come with a recharge battery dock, although it lacks the versatility of an "outside" headset.

In this price range, it's worth mentioning the multi-functional SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro as well, which does sport ANC, multi-platform capabilities, and has a desktop digital audio controller as well, although it perhaps doesn't have as impressive sound overall.

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Corsair Virtuoso Max: Should you buy?

It's a bit frustrating because the Corsair Virtuoso Max should be an easy win on the high end for someone who wants a truly "everything" headset, but the bits of fuzz that cut through in certain situations, albeit infrequent, definitely detract from the package. When you're offering a product that costs even more than an Xbox Series S, I don't think it's unfair to expect as close to perfection as possible.

The fact the ANC introduces interference makes it difficult to recommend that headline feature, which has undoubtedly contributed to boosting the price. Also, the RGB lights, while attractive for those who are interested in them, don't really serve a purpose for the vast majority of users, since they're more for people looking at you.

I'm sure that's of value to some people out there, but I can't say I've ever seen someone wearing a headset with RGB lights in public, and it's quite rare on streams, too, honestly. The kicker is ultimately the sound because it's so close to incredible and top-tier, but the areas where it struggles can be overlooked most of the time, and I feel like I shouldn't have to make that kind of caveat with a $329.99 headset.

You should buy this if ...

✅ You want a headset that sounds and looks great.

✅ You want to use it in every aspect of day-to-day life, beyond gaming.

✅ You have a particularly large head, as it has some of the most generous headset adjustability I've seen in a long time.

You should not buy this if ...

❌ You don't need active noise canceling or RGB lights.

❌ You want to save money; there are more affordable options.

❌ You are sensitive to electrical buzzing since this headset seems susceptible in certain sound scenarios.

Most reviews I've seen for this headset are glowing in general, and it's true that the Corsair Virtuoso Max is a fantastic product overall. I think it's possible that my ears are particularly sensitive to the random bouts of fuzz I discovered during my time with it. It may also be possible that my review unit has some type of flaw or fault. I'm cognizant of the fact that I have the luxury of direct comparisons to other headsets — I'm currently surrounded by some of the best Xbox headsets I've been reviewing as we head through 2025. So it's easy to compare and contrast sound reproduction on the fly here.

For the most part, the Corsair Virtuoso Max does absolutely everything right. It's let down by a couple of what might otherwise be relatively minor issues, perhaps exaggerated by that pretty hefty sticker price. I think if you are someone this headset is for — someone who wants a single device they can use for literally every consumer sound scenario imaginable — I think most people won't be disappointed. If you're struggling to justify spending $329.99 on a headset, though, you may want to look elsewhere.

Otherwise, it's an absolutely grand headset that's perhaps a little more premium than it needs to be. The engineering on this headset to incorporate features like RGB likely undermined the headset's price competitiveness against similar, much more affordable options. Still, if you want something that looks fantastic with great sound, that supports EVERY scenario you might need a headset, this is a strong option for you.

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I wasn't a big fan of the original Xbox Wireless Headset. In our previous-gen Xbox Wireless Headset review, audio quality issues was a bit point of frustration, even if most of the other features were quite capable overall.

It was a bit of an innovator of its era, though, living among the first headsets that sought to combine Bluetooth audio signal mixing with your Xbox console. However, as we head into 2025, pretty much every headset has copped the Xbox Wireless Headset's unique selling point.

Now, the new 2024 Xbox Wireless Headset offers no-frills, pure value above all. It's a good reference for manufacturers, as in what the "baseline" wireless Xbox headset experience should be: decent audio, capable mic, comfort-promoting materials, and cross-platform capabilities.

But is it among the best Xbox headsets to actually buy when there are so many other options out there now? Honestly, the answer is an emphatic yes.

With much-improved audio tuning, maturing software, and seamless connectivity, this is as "no-nonsense" as you can get with a gaming headset. But, like any headset, it's by no means flawless. Let's review the new 2024 Xbox Wireless Headset.

This review was conducted with an Xbox Wireless Headset unit provided by Microsoft. Microsoft didn't view the contents of this article before publication.

Xbox Wireless Headset (2024): Specs & Price

For what's on offer, the Xbox Wireless Headset ultimately offers a good price point, although it is $10 more expensive than its predecessor.

Part of that extra cost might be the "free" Dolby Atmos certification, which allows you to inject software-side surround sound via compatible Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, or Windows 10+ PCs. It's much cheaper than paying Dolby's absurd monthly subscription, though.

For $110, you get Bluetooth 5.3 sound source mixing with onboard direct-to-Xbox wireless 2.4 GHz. There's an included USB-C charge cable giving you up to 20 hours of juice, which is a boost for the 2024 model over the 2020 model.

There's also onboard mic monitoring now, in addition to leatherette cups, which have a premium feel with 40mm standard drivers.

You can connect this to a PC with the USB-C cable or via Bluetooth, but if you want the proper 2.4 GHz signal, right now, it's not looking possible, even with the Xbox Wireless USB dongle. I'm trying to get my hands on one to double check, since mine seems to be broken (RIP.) You can however just grab a USB Bluetooth dongle if your PC doesn't support it, though. They're pretty cheap these days, and might provide a more stable connection than many on-board laptop chips.

As of writing, stock levels are good heading into the holiday season and through 2025. It's the Xbox Wireless Headset for 2024, which is up for around $110 on Amazon.

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Xbox Wireless Headset (2024): Features, Design, and Comfort

As mentioned, when the Xbox Wireless Headset first rolled around, it was part of the first wave of serious headsets that incorporated Bluetooth directly into the headset. As of 2024 and into 2025, however, that feature set isn't as unique as it once was.

These days, every headset comes with Bluetooth 5.x and above, while mic monitoring and the like have become standardized. Ironically, it's the lack of gimmicks that really makes the Xbox Wireless Headset stand out a bit now. It incorporates (almost) everything you might want in a basic wireless headset option and becomes the tried-and-tested true "entry-level" model it was more than likely designed to be.

The design for the 2024 model is effectively unchanged. Microsoft has dropped the green accents (thank you) for something a little more subtle and modern. Neutral colors have become preferential for headsets over time, as users increasingly seek products that can work in their gaming setups but also potentially when outside with Bluetooth and a connected mobile device. The design of the Xbox Wireless Headset serves that use case well, with its logo taking on a similarly subtle embossed gloss motif rather than something larger and more gaudy. Top marks for design here.

The controls on the ear cups are also well-designed, with large dials on each side for controlling chat mix on the left and volume on the right. One criticism I would leverage at the headset is that its Xbox volume controls are in increments of 10. As such, when mixing in Bluetooth sound, you can essentially go from muted to actually quite loud, drowning out the second sound source. I think this is actually an Xbox limitation rather than the headset itself, potentially, but it's something Microsoft should look at improving. I would rather have adjustable volume increments up to 100 rather than up to 10, especially when you have Bluetooth sound mix capabilities. This would help match it to mobile and PC devices, which do let you control audio on a percentile basis.

One of the headset's other unique features is its auto-mute function. The auto-mute tries to detect when there's significant background noise and just mutes the mic to accommodate it. Depending on your environment, it could be quite a boon for your setup. I had it set to low and found that it worked decently well for preventing unwanted sounds from bugging my friends over comms. You can always disable it if it doesn't work for you, though. It also has mic monitoring on board, with adjustable volumes via the Xbox Accessories app on an Xbox console or on PC via the USB-C cable.

What isn't sold separately is the Dolby Atmos license, which I speculated could be why it's $10 more expensive than yesteryear. The headset will automatically detect that it's Dolby Atmos-certified and allow you to enable software surround via Windows or via the Xbox sound settings menu. I'll discuss how effective it is in the sound quality section next up, though.

Speaking of quality in general, the Xbox Wireless Headset does have a premium feel on your skin despite being a "budget" option. The leatherette material (which, honestly, every headset should be using in 2024) feels good. The cushioning across the top is good, too, for long sessions. However, I felt like the headset was a bit tight, even on its maximum adjustment. It's likely that it would probably stretch over time to accommodate my markedly prolific bonce, but it's worth being aware of if you're someone who is concerned about smaller, tighter headsets.

Overall, the Xbox Wireless Headset features a good set of functions with adequate comfort for most people, more than likely. What let the headset down previously was the audio quality, which I felt to be a bit middling previously. I had heard they improved the sound quality with updates and tweaks to the EQ, as well as firmware improvements to decrease distortion and things like that. How does it all stack up in practice, though? Pretty well, honestly.

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Xbox Wireless Headset (2024): Audio and Mic Experience

As mentioned, the sound experience on the Xbox Wireless Headset (Gen 1) version wasn't particularly exciting. But what about the Gen 2? I'm happy to report that Microsoft seems to have improved its sound delivery in a positive way here. Sound experiences can often be subjective based on a variety of factors, but there are some definitive improvements I can infer here — although you shouldn't expect to have your mind blown.

Although there is a capable EQ configuration platform you can access with the Xbox Accessories app on Xbox Series X|S or Windows 10 and above, even out of the box, I felt like the Xbox Wireless Headset offered a good soundscape. The bass is warm and adds a cinematic quality, and it can be boosted further using the app if you prefer that vibe. The headset shines in cinematic experiences, such as single-player RPGs or even when listening to music, offering a balanced sound profile out of the box with strong bass. I felt as though the treble was perhaps a bit too pronounced, but it can be easily tweaked if you fancy it. They're ultimately minor complaints that are hardly worth mentioning, potentially, but nothing stands out as particularly impressive either.

I'm a big fan of wide soundscapes and find them to be more immersive. More and more headsets seem to be gunning for 50 or even 60mm drivers, which makes the narrow 40mm here feel a bit anemic on the soundstage side of things. Yet still, they offer good positional awareness with the built-in Dolby Atmos license, which can help you cut through in tactical play in games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and the like.

The mic is also decent, if again, perhaps unremarkable. It's highly unlikely you're going to be creating content with this headset, but it might pass for entry-level live streaming or live podcasting. The auto-mute is a nice touch, as noted above, and the mic monitoring on-board is well-tuned. On the higher volumes, though, it does inject noise into the soundstage, which is a bit annoying. Some AI-powered active noise suppression features would've been nice to see here over the auto-mute. It's particularly true, given how much Microsoft bills itself as an "AI" company these days.

It has an LED right there on the mic itself, which indicates when it's actively muted. There's also a mic mute button on the reverse of the mic boom, which is easy to reach. However, I find the position of the LED to be a tad annoying. It's supposed to be easy to see in your peripheral vision, and I suppose it is, but it's distracting a bit because it's on the very periphery of your vision, out of focus. The mic boom could be a little longer to that end. It's also a bit of a miss that the mic isn't detachable or retractable, which makes it look a bit odd as a "lifestyle" headset when used out and about.

You can listen to the above here for an example of the sound delivery, although you might need to disable your adblocker to see the sound embed. Overall, it's a good mic and does the job well, which is ultimately the story of the entire product.

However, there is a key criticism I have to mention here, although it's something that could likely be improved with firmware updates. The headset's Bluetooth signal seems a little sensitive and unshielded from the main 2.4 GHz radio signal. When the headset is engaged on Xbox with its main radio and connected with a second device with Bluetooth, I noticed the Bluetooth signal is susceptible to interference. Other recent Bluetooth-capable headsets I've used like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro, new 2024 Astro A50, or the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) doesn't have the same issues in the same set up. I have seen these types of issues get repaired with firmware updates, though, so perhaps that's what'll happen here, too. I will say that the interference was infrequent, though, occurring for a few seconds every 30 minutes or something like that. So again, it's not exactly a big deal.

The Xbox Wireless Headset is a tale of no frills, and sometimes that's okay. The price point is right, the audio delivery is good, albeit basic, and the feature set is functional if baseline. It's a good product, offering value as its headline act.

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Xbox Wireless Headset (2024): Competition

What the Xbox Wireless Headset is offering is a pretty good deal. However, there is also a large variety of great products in the same price range that might be a better, or at least comparable, experience.

The primary competition here is the Turtle Beach Stealth 600 (Gen 3), which was also refreshed in 2024. The Stealth 600 sports a similar feature set but is arguably better value. It's slightly cheaper for one thing and can be paired with multiple devices with either Bluetooth or a USB dongle. However, it doesn't support simultaneous Bluetooth audio, unlike the Xbox Wireless Headset. To get that functionality, you'll have to spend a bit more to get the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3). The Stealth 600 (Gen 3) bodies the Xbox Wireless Headset's battery life, though, hitting 80 hours instead of the middling 20 on offer here.

For those who want to get the most out of the Xbox ecosystem across PC, mobile, cloud, Xbox Series X|S consoles, with simultaneous Bluetooth audio, the Xbox Wireless Headset from Microsoft is certainly among the best options right now. If you don't need simultaneous Bluetooth audio mixing, however, the Stealth 600 (Gen 3) might be a more cost-effective option, particularly if you want something with better battery life.

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Xbox Wireless Headset (2024): Should you buy?

The new Xbox Wireless Headset for 2024 is an unremarkable upgrade over its predecessor for the most part. The inclusion of a Dolby Atmos license is welcomed, and tweaks and refinements like the dropping of the green circular accent are also nice touches too. The soundstage is a bit narrow, but it's well-balanced and offers a good entry-level experience with warm cinematic bass and decent positional awareness in tactical gameplay — you could genuinely do far worse here.

You should buy this if ...

✅ You want a solid headset without breaking the bank.
✅ You need something with Bluetooth capability for going mobile or mixing second sound sources.
✅ You don't need gimmicks or bells and whistles.

You should not buy this if ...

❌ You're looking for top-level sound experience.
❌ You want wireless functionality on PC without Bluetooth.

The app experience is good with the Xbox Accessories program across platforms, with EQ controls and bass control, as well as mic monitoring volume and its auto-mute feature. Real noise suppression would probably have been preferred, though, and it's unfortunate that the mic can't be detached for mobile use, but it's not a deal breaker. It can be tucked away to some degree, after all.

What cannot be tucked away is the Bluetooth sensitivity. It does seem like the signal isn't particularly well-shielded from the main 2.4 GHz Xbox wireless signal, which does seem to lead to some disruption occasionally, but that's potentially something that might be repairable with a firmware update.

Good action on the controls, decent comfort and materials, solid construction, accessible packaging and design, and a solid sound experience across the board make the Xbox Wireless Headset 2024 an unremarkable but meaningful upgrade. This is the king of the entry-level among the best Xbox headsets, as long as you accept its limitations given its "entry-level" price point. I would be interested to see what Microsoft engineers could produce on the high-end someday, too.

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Three of the highest-rated wireless PC gaming accessories that have ever passed through the hands of Windows Central experts are all at their best price ever for the remainder of Cyber Monday — and it's even a matching set. The entire Alienware Pro line is discounted, with the mouse available for $109.99 at Dell, the keyboard available for $139.99 at Dell, and the headset available for $199.99 at Dell.

Seriously, PC gaming accessories don't get much better than this trilogy, and these prices have never been lower. Oh, and you can choose between white and black designs.

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One of the most cohesive PC gaming accessory packages

It's no secret that Razer currently dominates my desk, despite using products from all sorts of companies, but one brand in particular has put up the biggest fight. Alienware's new "Pro" line of gaming accessories represent an incredible leap forward compared to the company's previous efforts, with a wireless gaming mouse, keyboard, and headset that all earned near-perfect review scores from Windows Central.

I reviewed two of those products, and can personally attest to their incredible design, performance, and overall quality. They're good enough that I'm genuinely sad I couldn't complete the review trilogy, as my colleague is the one who reviewed the headset. For the remainder of Cyber Monday, they're all at their lowest price ever, too. It seems the PC gaming gods are watching out for us.

The Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse I reviewed is a mouse of focus, commitment, of sheer willpower. That is to say, it absolutely nails the fundamentals and leaves everything else behind. This mouse is super light and beautifully built, is endlessly reliable on a wireless connection, and offers top-of-the-line performance. It also helps that this is still one of the smoothest mice I have ever used. The Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse is available for only $109.99 at Dell, a $40 discount.

I also reviewed the Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard, the counterpart to the mouse — like its sibling, the keyboard was designed in tandem with over 100 esports gaming athletes. This compact, 75% keyboard is gorgeous, with some of the best per-key RGB lighting I've seen. It's also perfectly designed and offers a comfortable, responsive, and reliable typing experience (you can swap out those keycaps and switches, too). The second same as the first, the keyboard is wholly focused, but you do get tri-mode connectivity with Bluetooth on board. The Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard can be had for only $139.99 at Dell, a $60 discount.

Finally, there's the Alienware Pro Wireless ANC Gaming Headset... which my colleague Brendan Lowry reviewed. I'm envious, because Alienware completed the trifecta with a bang. The headset is the most premium of the three and leaves behind the "simple but perfect" theme of its siblings, packing in a ton of features. You get a wireless PC gaming headset with Bluetooth connectivity, integrated touch controls, active noise cancelation, high-end sound quality, and a capable microphone with AI background noise cancelation. It's expensive and there's no Xbox support, but that's less of a concern when the Alienware Pro Wireless ANC Gaming Headset is only $199.99 at Dell, a $30 discount.

HyperX has created a plethora of gaming headsets, and one of its standout products is the HyperX Cloud 2. This wired headset from 2015 has and continues to earn positive reception from many gamers looking for high-quality gaming headsets for its crisp audio, comfortable earcups, and budget-friendly MSRP of $79.99.

A MSRP which has gotten even more affordable thanks to this early Christmas miracle of a 50% Cyber Monday discount that has reduced it to $39.99 at HP.

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• 🎮ASUS ROG Ally (Z1) | $349.99 at Best Buy (Save $150!)
• 🖥️Geekom AR12 Lite Mini PC (Intel N100) | $169 at Amazon (Save $30!)
• 🕹️Xbox Game Pass Ultimate (3-months) | $27.99 at CDKeys (Save $12!)
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• 💻Surface Pro 11 w/ keyboard (X Plus) | $899.99 at Best Buy (Save $450!)

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• HP: Save up to 75% on selected doorbusters
• Lenovo: Save up to 68% on select doorbusters
• Newegg: Cyber Monday 2024 — It's our time to shine
• Razer: Loot like a legend with Cyber Weekend specials
• Samsung: Holiday deals on laptops, TVs, phones, and more are live
• Amazon: Cyber Monday deals on practically everything

Why should you buy the HyperX Cloud II?

Our Editor-in-Chief Daniel Rubino gave the wireless version of the HyperX Cloud 2 a glowing review, stating, "The wireless version of HyperX's popular Cloud II headset is a winner. Super comfort, excellent design, and powerful audio without a wired connection will be worth the extra $50 for many. Too bad it doesn't work on Xbox, though."

The wired edition of the HyperX Cloud 2 features most of the advanced tech of the wireless version, but it trades the wireless connectivity for extra compatibility with Xbox consoles via a 3.5mm audio jack and a USB 2.0 connector.

This tech includes 53mm audio drivers with a frequency response between 15Hz–20kHz and 7.1 surround sound. This allows it to convey rich and crystal-clear audio (the volume of which can be adjusted with the headset's attached audio box) while listening to music, talking with people online, or playing the best Xbox games and best PC games.

The HyperX Cloud 2 also has a detachable microphone that can transmit your voice with high-quality sound and active noise-canceling, so people can hear you more clearly without background noise.

To top it off, this headset's headband and earcups are equipped with HyperX Signature Comfort memory foam which makes it extremely comfy to wear, even after being used for several hours of gaming.

While HyperX Cloud 2 may not be as advanced as some of the more modern best Xbox gaming headsets or its successor, the HyperX Cloud 3, it's still a solid product that holds up today and is one of the more affordable options out there.

In fact, it's gotten even more affordable thanks to this exclusive 50% Cyber Monday discount deal being hosted by HP. For a limited time, you can get your hands on the HyperX Cloud 2 for just $39.99 at HP and save yourself $40.99 in the process.

However, this deal will most likely last only for today, so if you want to get your hands on a high-quality headset at an extremely low price, this is your best chance to do so. Also, if you don't mind paying extra money for more advanced features and higher sound quality, the HyperX Cloud 3 is also on sale for a 30% Cyber Monday discount that has taken its MSRP down from $99.99 to $69.99 at Amazon.

Over the years, Turtle Beach has honed its craft to produce exemplary headphones/headsets with enriching sound quality and sublime ergonomics. No headset showcases this more than the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro which we regard as one of Turtle Beast's finest works for its superhuman sound quality, unmatched compatibility, and a smorgasbord of other auditory-enhancing features.

As this is a premium headset, the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro expectantly fetches a ridiculously steep MSRP of $329.99. Yet fret not because Amazon has slashed this MSRP by 33% due to Black Friday so it's now in a somewhat more manageable price tag of $219.99.

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Why should you buy the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro?

When our Executive Editor, Jez Corden, reviewed the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro, he gave it a 5/5 perfect score, stating that it is "arguably the best Xbox headset and best PC gaming headset on the market right now." He doesn't make this statement lightly because this headset has a ton of enticing features going for it.

For starters, this product produces some of the best sound quality in a Turtle Beach headset to date. The soundscape is so crystal-clear and pleasing to listen to, it will completely immerse you in the game's world and sometimes make you think like you're actually there. I know for a fact that games with a heavy emphasis on immersive atmospheres like Stalker 2, Hellblade, and The Long Dark would benefit greatly from this headset and make you see, or rather 'hear' them in a whole new light.

You can also customize the Equalizer options of the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro treble emphasis, bass boost, and more into a collection of personal profiles to suit your needs whether it's for gameplay immersion or listening to music.

The impeccable sound quality also translates to its microphone, which can convey the sound of your voice with razor sharp clarity. Add in customizable active noise-canceling to drown out background noise, and you never will have to worry about your online conversations or streams being interrupted by loud distractions again.

Additionally, the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro comes with a toggleable Superhuman hearing algorithm sound profile. This will adjust the audio so you can more easily hear the subtlest of sound effects like footsteps, a gun reloading, or even the sound of someone breathing.

This feature comes in real handy in competitive multiplayer games like Overwatch 2, Valorant, or Call of Duty Black Ops 6. The Superhuman hearing algorithm will allow you to more easily sense nearby enemy players and make sure they never get the drop on you.

Of course, sublime audio isn't the only thing the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro has to offer. It also has solid ergonomics in the form of a strong but lightweight, sturdy headband and ovular cushioned earphones. This results in a comfy headset that feels cozy to wear and one that won't strain your skull after many hours of use.

The Turtle Beach Stealth Pro also features built-in volume controls, wireless Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, compatibility with Xbox consoles and PC, and a massive 12-hour-long battery life. The battery is concealed behind a magnetic battery door in one of the ear cups and can be quickly recharged using a wireless signal dock bundled with the headset.

What's more, is that the charging dock is equipped with two USB-C to USB-A cables because it has a pass-through charging port. This means you won't have to use up one of your Xbox or PC's USB ports to activate it.

The only major downside of the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro is its gigantic MSRP of $329.99 which is understandable considering the amount of advanced technology packed inside it. Thankfully, you won't have to pay as much during this week because Black Friday has reduced it to $219.99 at Amazon thanks to this sweet 33% discount.

So if you're looking for a premium headset to experience the best Xbox games and the best PC games with the most articulate and immersive sound quality possible and save $100 in the process, you can't go wrong with this Black Friday for the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro.

In the market for a new headset? Then this is the time to do your shopping. Right now, one of the Windows Central team's favorite headsets is heavily discounted, so you can grab a SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wired model for $175 at Amazon. We don't know how long this headset will remain in stock, so hurry!

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A fantastic choice as long as you're okay with wires

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro first launched years ago, but there's a few compelling reasons that it's stayed firmly near the top of our best Xbox headsets list. While you can certainly find other headsets that do something better, the Arctis Nova Pro is a phenomenal jack-of-all-trades, being well suited to practically every endeavour.

That's especially true thanks to its multi-platform compatibility. Many headsets are only suited for a particular console or just meant for PC, but the Arctis Nova Pro is perfectly compatible with Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5. If you're someone that enjoys playing games across multiple devices, this compatibility is a feature you need to prioritize.

Seeing this headset knocked down from its normal price of $250 to just $175 for Black Friday means that this is the time to upgrade if you've been wanting to get something a bit higher-end for a while.

The only caveat here is that this is the wired variant. The Arctis Nova Pro is also available as a wireless headset, but if you want the wireless version, you'll need to cough up some extra cash. The wireless variant normally runs at $350, but is currently similarly discounted to just $270.

One of our favorite gaming headsets that we at Windows Central often recommend to gamers is the HyperX Cloud 3. This mechanical marvel will enrich your auditory gaming experiences with crystal-clear audio quality via Surround Sound while providing maximum comfort with its cozy, memory foam ear cushions.

The HyperX Cloud 3 usually sells for a moderately high MSRP of $99.99. However, Black Friday has come to cleave that price in half to a more modest fee of $50.57 at Amazon (50% off).

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• 📺HP Curved Ultrawide (34-inches) | $299.99 at Best Buy (Save $180!)
• 💽WD_Black Xbox Series X|S Card (1TB) | $99.99 at Best Buy (Save $50!)
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• Target: Live deals on a huge range of products
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• Lenovo: Doorbuster deals on all Lenovo PCs, monitors, accessories, and more
• Newegg: Save on PC gaming accessories, components, and more
• Razer: Take advantage of free shipping for a limited time
• Samsung: Holiday deals on laptops, TVs, phones, and more are live
• Amazon: Constantly rotating sales on everything you can imagine

Why should you buy the HyperX Cloud 3 gaming headset?

The HyperX Cloud series contains some of the finest mid-range headsets HyperX has produced and the HyperX Cloud 3 is the cream of the crop. Even our headset expert Rebecca Spears stated that it's her main headset of choice when she reviewed the HyperX Cloud 3.

The HyperX Cloud 3 improves upon all of the positive traits of the HyperX Cloud 2 (which our Editor-in-Chief Daniel Rubino reviewed) while smoothing out the rough edges to create one of the best PC gaming headsets and best Xbox gaming headsets on the market.

The HyperX Cloud 3 accomplished this feat by being equipped with 53mm angled drivers with Surround Sound to deliver crisp and high-grade audio when listening to in-game music and sound effects. Plus the sound drivers are installed with Spatial Audio so your ears can more easily pick up the sound of footsteps and other subtle sound effects.

Not only does this make the player feel more immersed while playing games, but it can also help them detect the sound of enemy movement in games like Stalker 2 or Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.

The headset also comes with a detachable 10mm microphone that can transmit your voice online with crystal-clear audio with little to no latency or distracting background noise. With the HyperX Cloud 3's mic, you will be able to communicate with your teammates (or taunt your rivals) more clearly in online multiplayer games like World of Warcraft or Capcom's upcoming Monster Hunter Wilds.

Of course, all the audio quality in the world will mean little if a headset isn't comfortable to wear, and thankfully, the HyperX Cloud 3 more than delivers in this regard. This headset is outfitted with memory foam cushioned earphones and a headband outlined with faux leatherette to keep your ears and head comfy without straining them during your hour-long sessions of playing the best PC games and best Xbox games.

Aside from not having any wireless capabilities, the biggest drawback of the HyperX Cloud 3 is that it often sells for a rather costly MSRP of $99.99. However, that issue has been mitigated thanks to Amazon's lucrative 50% Black Friday discount which has chopped the MSRP of the HyperX Cloud 3 (Black/Red variant) down to $50.57, which is the biggest discount this product has had in two months.

If getting your hands on one of HyperX's best gaming headsets for less than $51 while saving $49.42 isn't a sign of an absolute steal of a deal then I don't know what is.

Razer has been dabbling in putting vibrating haptic motors into its highest-end headsets for a while now, and we're finally seeing the ultimate culmination of all those efforts.

The Razer Kraken V4 Pro comes hot on the heels of its non-Pro variant as part of a family-wide refresh for Razer's most mainstream gaming headsets. This time, however, the Kraken V4 Pro firmly pushes into the "luxury" category of headsets and headphones with an attached price that's liable to make you do a double take. It's the best of almost everything Razer has put into a gaming headset, plus a little more, but whether that's enough depends on your interest in a single feature.

Razer wants to immerse you into your games, movies, and music in a way no other headset can with Sensa HD, a haptics platform that's now more detailed and refined than ever before. It's genuinely fascinating and does exactly what Razer advertises, and it pairs well with the ultra-premium experience offered in all other areas. Despite that, I'm still not convinced those vibrations are the must-have feature the Kraken V4 Pro needs to justify its cost.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Razer. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Kraken V4 Pro review: Pricing and specifications

Pricing highlights

• The Razer Kraken V4 Pro retails for $399.99, which includes the OLED Control Hub.
• That's over twice the price of the next closest headset, the Razer Kraken V4 that retails for $180.
• Most of that additional cost is due to the Sensa HD Haptics and OLED Control Hub, but the Kraken V4 Pro is more premium in almost every way than its little sibling.

As you can see by the specs sheet in this section, the Razer Kraken V4 Pro is absolutely packed with features, and several are unique to this headset in Razer's lineup. This is the first Razer headset to support simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless audio, a high-end feature Razer fans have been requesting for years. This is also the debut of Razer's new-and-improved Sensa HD Haptics platform, which replaces the HyperSense of old.

All of these features are meant to justify the asking price, with the Razer Kraken V4 Pro running for $399.99 at Best Buy. That ranks this headset among the most premium on the market and pushes into luxury audio territory, so the Kraken V4 Pro needs to offer both the features and the experience to match. One feature this headset is missing that several others in the price range boast is active noise cancelation, but I can't even imagine how poor the battery life would be if you also added ANC to the mix.

There are only a handful of headsets or headphones in the Razer catalog that can claim to have something the Kraken V4 Pro doesn't, and none of them offer this indulgent of an experience. In every sense, the Razer Kraken V4 Pro is the new king of Razer gaming headsets, and the price reflects that.

In the box, you'll find the Razer Kraken V4 Pro wireless gaming headset, the OLED Control Hub, a braided USB Type-C to USB Type-C cable, a braided 3.5mm audio cable, and a simple fabric travel bag. The Kraken V4 Pro is covered by Razer's 2-year Standard warranty for headsets.

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Kraken V4 Pro review: The good

The pros highlights

• The Razer Kraken V4 Pro definitely competes with the best in most categories.
• The design, build quality, connectivity, performance, audio quality, and recording quality are all excellent
• The Kraken V4 Pro is rarely the absolute best in a single category, but the sum of its parts is quite compelling.

When I went into this review, I actually had some concerns that this headset would be too similar to the mid-range Razer Kraken V4 I reviewed. Don't get me wrong, I loved that headset and gave it a positive review, but the Kraken V4 feels like its price — which is less than half that of its big sibling. Fortunately, you will immediately notice a difference the moment you unbox the Razer Kraken V4 Pro.

This headset is markedly denser, and higher-quality materials across the board make the Kraken V4 Pro feel sturdier and more premium. My concerns were wasted, the Razer Kraken V4 Pro is every bit as luxurious as its closest competitors from companies like Audeze and SteelSeries. A balanced clamping force and thick cushions with plush, soft leatherette fabric also do a great job keeping you comfortable, but there is a downside to this denser design that I'll get into later.

Before that, connectivity! The Kraken V4 Pro is absolutely Razer's best effort at a true multiplatform headset, even if it doesn't quite take the crown from companies like Logitech. The headset itself can connect to almost any modern device via Bluetooth or USB. The OLED Control Hub, which connects instantly and seamlessly to the Kraken V4 Pro via Razer HyperSpeed Wireless, boasts two additional USB ports and a 3.5mm audio port for Windows PC and console connections (and you can easily rotate through them at any moment).

Oh, and there's finally simultaneous 2.4GHz and Bluetooth wireless audio mixing for the first time in a Razer headset, so you can use both your mobile phone and PC or console without any fuss; it works great, and I'm ecstatic it's here. Performance-wise, the Razer Kraken V4 Pro is also top-tier. I tested the limits of both the headset's Bluetooth and the Control Hub's 2.4GHz wireless connections, and the Kraken V4 Pro excelled with fantastic range, stability, and latency.

Put the headset on, and you'll be greeted by Razer's TriForce Bio-Cellulose drivers instead of the familiar "Titanium" drivers we usually see in high-end Razer headsets. These drivers have only been seen in one other headset (the Razer Barracuda Pro), but there are some differences. These are smaller 40mm (instead of 50mm) drivers for a more compact and sleek design, and a new, redesigned driver plate improves sound quality and shifts the drivers closer to your ears.

Complex audio technology aside, this is the best-sounding headset Razer has ever made. The Kraken V4 Pro boasts a warmer and deeper audio profile than your typical high-end Razer headset, while also managing to retain more detail and clarity. It's a remarkable listening experience that's precise and delicate, with a praise-worthy dynamic soundstage for a closed-back set. THX Spatial Audio also sounds beautiful in 7.1 surround sound. It won't best the professional and audiophile gear at this price point and beyond, but for a gaming headset, the Kraken V4 Pro is wonderfully versatile.

That brings me to the headlining feature, the Sensa HD Haptics. Razer has been refining its haptics technology for a few years now, until it became the fully fledged platform we have today (complete with a slowly growing library of specially enhanced games). Compared to previous iterations, the haptic motors in the Kraken V4 Pro are more nuanced, precise, and responsive with better spatial positioning. But what's even the point?

You wouldn't be wrong to think of Razer's Sensa HD Haptics as extremely intense bass boost, but it's entirely separate from the headphone drivers and so doesn't negatively impact audio quality, it's more dynamic and customizable to your tastes, and it's more noticeable by feel rather than just hearing. The goal is to enhance your immersion in games by underscoring dramatic events, moments, or music in real time.

When you play a Sensa HD integrated game like Final Fantasy XVI (one of the games I tested), impacts in combat have far more punch behind them, and heavy objects or creatures that move dramatically almost feel like they have weight. However, you can enjoy Sensa HD Haptics with any audio, including your entire games library, movies, and music.

Razer's real-time audio-to-haptics engine that debuted with the Razer Edge and has been enjoying refinements ever since analyzes your audio at its source and responds in kind. You have a lot of customization over Sensa HD, including the intensity of the haptics (or if you use them at all), but there are also four custom profiles for the audio-to-haptics that you can easily switch between in Razer Synapse or on the Control Hub.

Whether you simply want deep, low-end sounds to be boosted or you want a dramatic, tactile soundscape that responds to everything, or anything in between, you can do that. After using Sensa HD Haptics for hours, I can tell you that it does make a difference, and a good one. Stronger bass without distortion, heavier gunfire or explosions in games and movies, emotional moments and scenes made more powerful — the Kraken V4 Pro makes it happen without compromising on the rest of its experience.

That being said, even with that praise, I'm not sure how much I'd miss Sensa HD Haptics if my next headset didn't have it.

At least you have that customization and flexibility, and the Razer Kraken V4 Pro can even flex its haptic muscles with your phone. Through the Razer Nexus app, you can finetune your audio-to-haptics settings for your mobile games; while Bluetooth does inherently have more latency, this still works quite well. Outside of that, all your customization will be done through Razer Synapse or the OLED Control Hub.

Razer Synapse is a familiar software hub, and the latest version is more performance and less resource intensive. There's also a ton of settings for the Kraken V4 Pro and its OLED Control Hub. Speaking of that, the Control Hub boasts a tiny black-and-white OLED display, a button, and a prominent dial. It's a high-quality hub that handles wireless and wired connectivity, but it also lets you display audio and system info, control your volume, edit your headset's lighting, haptics, and audio settings, and more.

You can even customize the home screen with fun animations or more useful information, or even upload your own GIF or design your own text banner. None of it feels strictly necessary to have, but the OLED Control Hub is a nice value-add for the Kraken V4 Pro and I enjoy using it.

Finally, the microphone. I won't dive too deep into this unidirectional, retractable microphone... Because it's identical to the mic in the Razer Kraken V4. It's an upgraded HyperClear Super Wideband mic with a higher sampling rate for deeper and more detailed recording quality, and it is quite good. It is not, however, as good as the microphone of the same name on the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023). Chalk that up to different hardware components to achieve that compact, retractable design.

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Kraken V4 Pro review: The bad

The cons highlights

• Apart from the obvious of contributing to that massive price tag, the Sensa HD Haptics also contribute to some other weaknesses.
• This headset is heavy, and you feel it, and battery life is middling at best (even with the lighting disabled).
• On top of that, it feels ridiculous that a $400 "multiplatform" headset doesn't support Xbox, whatever the technical reasons may be.

I actually don't have a lot of negative things to say about the Razer Kraken V4 Pro. This is a simple case of a product's greatest strength also being its greatest weakness. In this case, that would be the Sensa HD Haptics. They're the single largest reason this headset is as exorbitantly expensive as it is, but owning a vibrating headset comes with some other compromises.

For one, the Razer Kraken V4 Pro is dense. It's not quite as heavy as the massive Audeze Maxwell, but it weighs noticeably more than the regular Kraken V4 (and most other gaming headsets, for that matter). Razer did its best with comfort and ergonomics, but you will feel the Kraken V4 Pro pressing down on your head and shoulders.

Battery life is also... meh. Razer quotes up to 50 hours if you disable the RGB lighting and Bluetooth connectivity, but even that feels optimistic if you want to use the haptics. At its best, this headset boasts less endurance than its competitors, and at its worse you may find yourself charging this headset every day or every other day. The Kraken V4 Pro is at least quick to top up, but dual wireless connectivity, 9-zone RGB lighting, and additional haptic motors do not encourage great longevity.

I also can't move on without mentioning the obvious lack of Xbox support. Look, I know why the Razer Kraken V4 Pro and so many other third-party wireless gaming headsets don't support Xbox, but as a consumer, I frankly don't care about the technical or legal reasons behind a missing feature. If I'm paying $400 for a premium gaming headset that claims to do it all with multiplatform connectivity, I expect that to also include Xbox.

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Kraken V4 Pro review: Competition

The Razer Kraken V4 Pro may stand in a league of its own thanks to its unique haptics feature, but that doesn't mean it lacks competition. Depending on your priorities, there are plenty of other amazing wireless gaming headsets in this price range.

If you'd rather drop the haptics in favor of Xbox support and active noise-canceling, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless we reviewed is an incredibly well-balanced gaming headset that also boasts an external, feature-filled DAC. You can get the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless for $349.99 at Best Buy, so it also costs less than the Kraken V4 Pro.

• Recommended headset stand: Razer Base Station V2 Chroma for $69.99 at Razer
• Recommended add-on: Razer Kitty Ears V2 for $19.99 at Razer

I also reviewed the Audeze Maxwell, which is a phenomenal wireless gaming headset for those who value pure audio quality above everything else. You can pick up the Audeze Maxwell for $329.99 at Best Buy.

If you're looking for the true multiplatform champion, I reviewed the Logitech Astro A50 X, too, and it can connect to any device you can think of and switch the HDMI inputs of your TV or monitor, too. The Logitech Astro A50 X costs $379.99 at Best Buy, making it the priciest alternative here (and it's still less than the Kraken V4 Pro).

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Kraken V4 Pro review: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You're interested in the Sensa HD Haptics

The headlining feature for the Razer Kraken V4 Pro is also a good metric for whether you should buy this headset. If the feature interests you then there's no other choice, but if you couldn't care less then this probably isn't the headset for you.

✅You simply want the best Razer has to offer

The mic isn't the absolute best Razer puts in a headset and there's no active noise canceling, but in all other respects this is the best wireless gaming headset Razer has ever made. If that's all you need, this is it.

You should not buy this if ...

❌You need a truly long-lasting headset without compromising

The Razer Kraken V4 Pro can last for dozens of hours if you disable its most unique features, but that's not how you should have to use any product you buy. If you prioritize longevity over other features, most premium gaming headsets will outlast the Kraken V4 Pro.

The Razer Kraken V4 Pro is a fascinating gaming accessory that's a smidgen hard to pin down.

On one hand, it's by far the best wireless gaming headset in Razer's arsenal and boasts a truly unique feature in its Sensa HD Haptics; on the other, Razer is asking you to pay a lot — more than most of the Kraken V4 Pro's closest competitors — to obtain that vibrating function. Nothing apart from the Sensa HD Haptics or RGB lighting truly set the Kraken V4 Pro apart from other luxury gaming headsets, and that can be a tough pill to swallow when the Razer Kraken V4 Pro costs $399.99 at Best Buy.

At the very least, the Sensa HD Haptics pleasantly surprised me. The Kraken V4 Pro is far more precise, responsive, and nuanced with its additional tactile feedback than I expected going into this review, and I never once wanted to disable it. At the same time, I'm not confident I'd truly miss that feature if I moved onto a new headset. Considering the Razer Kraken V4 Pro revolves around that feature, it's hard to unreservedly recommend this headset when you can't experience the Sensa HD Haptics beforehand.

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Welcome to our Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) headset review. Turtle Beach is back with another premier gaming headset that, at least on paper, could prove to be among the company's best.

Turtle Beach has produced some of my favorite headsets ever. The Stealth Pro is among the best Xbox headsets out there, and one we consistently recommend. It is pretty pricey though ... what if there was something similar, but over $100 cheaper? That's what the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) is potentially promising here.

With vast multi-platform capabilities, Bluetooth 5.2 dual-source sound mixing, premium materials, and a monstrous 80~ hour battery life — the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) has all the makings of an industry leader. Does it make the grade in reality, though? In short, absolutely yes, and then some.

Read our full Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) review below to find out more.

This headset was reviewed with a Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) unit provided by Turtle Beach. Turtle Beach did not see the contents of this review prior to posting.

Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3): Specs & Price

The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) meets its previous "700" models, hitting $199. Previous 700 models have ranged from $130 to $150, depending on the generation, but it seems with Generation 3 Turtle Beach is repositioning this headset as more of a premium option, while also aligning with evolving gamer user habits.

The headset is widely available at all major retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, and Turtle Beach's own website. Since it's a very new headset, it's unlikely to see deals for Black Friday or Amazon Prime Day any time soon, but we'll keep an eye out and let you know. At the very least, it might see a few dollars shaved off the asking price.

The spec sheet is fairly standard on the face of it. Leatherette cups return with memory foam, as is usual for Turtle Beach's more premium-end headsets. We also have standard 20Hz to 20 kHz frequency response, although that doesn't tell the full story on audio reproduction really (more on that shortly). The headline act here is probably the dual USB wireless sound switching. Instead of having a single transmitter with two cables attached, Turtle Beach opted for separate USB dongles for PC and Xbox, allowing you to swap on the fly. There's also Bluetooth 5.2 with dual-audio mixing, and a range of on-ear controls to help adjust audio levels for all the different features.

So how good is it in practice? Read on for our full Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) review.

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Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3): Features, Design, and Comfort

When I first unboxed the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3), I was expecting a decent mid-range type of product that perhaps wouldn't blow me away, but would ultimately do the job. Now I feel a little guilty for having such little faith.

What Turtle Beach has put together for the Stealth 700 (Gen 3) is nothing short of special. I say special because the quality materials, dense construction, and sleek design are more befitting of headsets in the $300 range, such as the firm's own Turtle Beach Stealth Pro from earlier in the year. At $199, I feel like I'm getting an absolute steal here, and you likely will too.

I've been reviewing Turtle Beach headsets for a decade at this point, and have seen the firm go from its ugly green neon-splattered plastic-y toys to more mature, professional, premium designs with more suitably subtle flairs and metallic accents. The Stealth 700 (Gen 3) absolutely fits that niche, perfecting on its Gen 2 predecessor with extra attention paid to comfort and durability.

The headband is coated in a thick memory foam, joining the cups with leatherette and fine fabric that feels pleasant and cool on the ears. They're also large, although not what I'd describe as bulky, although you may feel differently. They're designed to house massive 60mm drivers this time around, though, with a closed back format for spectacular isolation and immersive bass. Although, we'll talk more about sound shortly. This headset is just fantastic to wear, and is easily among the most comfortable headsets I've used in recent memory. I have a large head, too, and feel that the vast majority of people will find the adjustment levels more than adequate.

The on-ear controls are intuitively designed, with a variety of differentiating tactile patterns to help build your muscle memory when feeling for them with your hand. There are three volume dials in total, one for PC audio, one for Xbox's Chat / Game mix balance, and one for Bluetooth audio levels. You can mix sound sources between one USB wireless 2.4 GHz source and one Bluetooth 5.2 source, which includes phones, TVs, tablets, practically anything with Bluetooth really.

In my testing, I found that the wireless signals are well isolated from each other, preventing corruption when mixing sound sources together. I was able to play games on my Xbox while feeding music or Discord in from my PC with Bluetooth with ease. The pairing multi-function button also works well for skipping tracks and pausing and the like if you plan to use the headset out and about. And you can, since the microphone is easily hidden with a tidy "flip to mute" configuration.

Perhaps the biggest criticism I can throw at the Stealth 700 (Gen 3) in terms of features stems from its firmware update cycle. Updating the firmware on the headset requires you to connect not one, but both USB dongles to a power source simultaneously, while also running the update from the mobile version of the app. If you don't have access to a laptop or a PC, you might struggle to keep the headset up to date. Generally speaking, it seems the out-of-the-box firmware was already polished and bug free, but it's worth being aware of the issues you might have updating otherwise. It also took a seriously long time to get the update through. I feel as though there must be a better way here, but it's also not a huge deal.

Speaking of the mobile app, Turtle Beach's software is good overall. The mobile and PC app are both called "Swarm II" and can be easily downloaded from Turtle Beach's support website. They both share all the same features from what I could tell, giving you EQ pre-sets, mic monitoring volume adjustments, and the ability to configure some of the buttons.

Some of Turtle Beach's competitors have gone hard on working with game publishers to build customized EQ pre-sets specifically tailored to games. Turtle Beach's out of the box pre-sets are pretty standard by comparison, with bass boost, bass and treble boost, vocal boost, and Turtle Beach Signature Sound as the only profiles. You can add and maintain more than that if you fancy it, but it would've been nice to see some more pre-defined options here. Although, it might simply not be needed.

Turtle Beach's Signature Sound profile already sounds fantastic by itself, and I'll go into more detail on that in the next section, but there are other features that enhance your games too on offer here. Turtle Beach's "Superhuman Hearing" feature returns, although it's not activated by default, strangely. You also can't toggle it on or off using the "mode" button either, which again, is odd, and probably something they should explore for a future update. In any case, when it is turned on, you can very aggressively enhance the frequency ranges where things like footsteps, movements, and gunshots typically sit. Activating this does punish the cinematic feel of the games you're playing, however, but it will definitively give you a tactical edge in the process. Turtle Beach's "Legacy" Superhuman Hearing setting mode seems to balance cinematic quality with enhanced tactical sound to some degree, however.

Well, since we're already talking about sound features, let's go further in depth into what this headset actually sounds like.

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Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3): Audio and Mic Experience

At this point, I've done so many of these reviews that I'm rarely truly impressed anymore. There are some fantastic headsets out there, of all price points, shapes, sizes, and feature sets, but it's rare that a headset comes along and makes me think "yes, this is a recommendation for basically everyone." It's also been a long time since I felt like I could say this about a Turtle Beach headset too, which often seem to come with at least some caveat, price ask, or competitor that makes them a little harder to recommend for everyone. I'm pleased to say that the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) not only makes the grade, the more I've used it the more I think this might be the best pound-for-pound Xbox and PC gaming headset money can buy right now.

For cinematic video game sound, the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) is simply immaculate. Cavernous 60mm drivers deliver some of the best soundscaping I've experienced in a product that nails so many of the other fundamentals, while also being so impressively feature rich. The bass is sweeping, warm, and rich, with punchy activations that reminisce of IMAX cinema experiences. Truly sublime.

The combination of impressive closed back isolation, coupled with 60mm drivers make for a truly immersive experience, with some of the best detailing and separation I've experienced in a "gaming" headset. It's not something I would have expected from a headset at the $199 price point, particularly given how many additional features Turtle Beach managed to squeeze into this product.

For tactical audio, Turtle Beach continues to leverage its Superhuman Hearing algorithm, as I noted earlier. I prefer the "Legacy" setting, which still enhances positional awareness, while also enhancing frequencies where player movements and actions typically sit. It doesn't completely eliminate cinematic qualities when playing like this, and as someone who doesn't fancy themselves an esports diamond ranked kinda guy, it's more than adequate.

However, if you do want a maximized advantage, the Superhuman "Footsteps" pre-set will fully isolate that frequency, giving you a large tactical advantage while sacrificing cinematic qualities. I'm not a huge fan of this mode personally, as it gives the overall soundscape a tinny, muffled veneer that takes you out of the action. But that's what it's supposed to do ultimately. It enhances footsteps to a degree that it feels almost immoral to use, giving away enemy movements with deadly precision.

I would have liked to have seen more partnerships with publishers given that much of Turtle Beach's competition is doing similar here, but it's not exactly a dealbreaker. You can create your own profiles and EQ settings using the app of course, but I found the "Signature Sound" profile to be crystalline enough without further tweaks — that's not something I can say often.

There are a couple of criticisms worth mentioning here, though.

After reviewing the new Astro A50 this month, I was wowed by the headset's microphone, and wondered if it predicted a wider trend among headset manufacturers. I can report that pretty much isn't the case.

The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) is notably poor on the microphone front, as you can hear in the audio clip above. It's not as if it's unusably poor, but it's easily the weakest aspect of what is otherwise a near-perfect product. Turtle Beach also sought to add an "A.I. enhanced" tag on the microphone too, and it's hard to hear exactly how it enhances the experience. I was also a bit disappointed by the noise gate. Even when it's turned all the way to zero, it seems that it still occasionally attempts to noise gate to some degree, and can be slow to respond when you start talking, cutting off the first part of your sentence. You can hear it in the mic clip there for an example. The good news is that this is likely an early teething problem with the software noise gating, and probably easily fixed with a future firmware update. The mic monitoring is also not as crisp and responsive as other solutions out there, but it at least gets the job done.

When everything else is so good, the downsides stick out a bit more potentially. The microphone quality is middling and nowhere near good enough for content creation or livestreaming, but it is more than serviceable for party chat or Discord comms with friends. The flip to mute aspect is always nice and intuitive to see, although the action on the mic arm is a bit less reassuring than I would perhaps like.

Over all though, there's very little bad to say here. This is perhaps the best "all round" and not criminally expensive Xbox and PC gaming headset I've used in a long time.

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Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3): Competition

I'm not sure what exactly how Turtle Beach managed to make the Stealth 700 (Gen 3) stand out so far ahead of its competitors. Simply put, the coalescence of features makes it hard to recommend anything else in this price range right now. Even far more expensive headsets like the Astro A50 (Gen 5) and SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro, I would argue fall short in audio delivery, instead opting for additional features.

Pound for pound, dollar for dollar, I think the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) might be the best-sounding Xbox headset out there right now, at the very least on par with products like the Audeze Maxwell, BeoPlay Portal, and Razer Blackshark V2 Pro. However, it also has those headsets beat on features probably, sometimes as well as price.

When you look at the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) and zoom out, it's difficult for me to still want to use other headsets I have at my disposal. It does everything its competitors do, only noticeably better in some cases. For every possible use case, incorporating Bluetooth 5.2 sound mixing, instant switching between two wireless USB sources across Xbox and PC, an incorporated retractable mic, and superb comfort and quality makes this a leader in the space in my view.

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Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3): Should you buy?

The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) is something I'm prepared to recommend as my go-to for those who want full multi-platform capabilities in a single package without compromising on sound quality. What Turtle Beach has managed to pull off here is nothing short of remarkable, hitting a very competitive price without skimping on features.

You should buy the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) if:

✅ You play on multiple platforms, including Xbox and PC, and want to switch instantly between them.
✅ You are particular about comfort and high-quality materials on your skin.
✅ You want a leading sound experience both for cinematic and tactical gameplay.

You should not buy the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) if:

❌ You want a headset that can also offer content creation grade mic quality.

When I reviewed the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro, I felt like some of its additional features didn't justify the price point it was reaching for. The swappable batteries were nice, and having a single signal source for multiple devices was a nice touch too. However, I feel like the Stealth 700 (Gen 3) is essentially delivering that experience offered by the Stealth Pro albeit at a far more competitive price point. Monstrous 80 hours battery life precludes the need to have swappable batteries, and the retractable mic beats the detachable mic too for going mobile. And the sound experience is just on another level, reminding me why again Turtle Beach remains my favorite headset maker.

They always seem one step ahead of the competition when it comes to soundscaping at competitive prices, and the Stealth 700 (Gen 3) exemplifies that. This is one headset that absolutely will not disappoint anyone who buys it.

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I'm an avowed Astro A50 fan, having used every iteration of the headset since its inception. I was excited to finally try out the Astro A50 (Gen 5) for this review. The headset was launched in September 2024. As I built this review, I had one big personal question I needed the Astro A50 (Gen 5) to answer.

I use the Astro A50 (Gen 4) model from 2019 as my primary headset. I built my setup around the headset, too, owing to its SPDIF optical-in, which has become a rarity among the best Xbox headsets and best PC gaming headsets alike. But despite my headset's age and despite having dozens upon dozens of other options from the mountain of reviews I've done over the years, I've yet to upgrade. But why?

I've stuck with the Astro A50 Gen 4 for so long because of the dual audio mixing SPDIF offers. You can merge sound from your TV directly (and, by proxy, your Xbox) while setting the headset into PC USB mode for Discord and live streaming on platforms like YouTube and Twitch. But perhaps with the Astro A50 (Gen 5) available now for $299 at retailers like Amazon and Best Buy, can I finally, finally let my aging 5-year-old headset find its rest?

Not to be confused with the Astro A50 X, which has HDMI audio pass-through, the Astro A50 (Gen 5) is a more standard version of that headset, which ditches the pricy triple-HDMI setup for something more traditional. Instead, you get 3 USB-C ports: one for PC, one for Nintendo Switch and PS5, and one for Xbox One and Series X|S consoles. With a handy button on the headset, you can seamlessly switch between them on the fly. You also have dual sound source mixing powered by Bluetooth as well for good measure.

This is by no means the first headset that has included these types of features, but how does it stack up in practice? The answer is very, very well, actually. Here's our full review of the Astro A50 (Gen 5), tested by me — someone who has very, VERY heavily used every previous version.

This headset was reviewed with an Astro A50 (Gen 5) unit provided by Logitech G. Logitech did not see the contents of this review prior to posting.

Astro A50 (Gen 5, 2024): Specs & Price

At first glance, the Astro A50 (Gen 5) looks remarkably similar to its predecessor, both visually and from the spec sheet. However, there are some nuances worth pointing out. We're still at 20 Hz to 20 kHz (which tends to be the standard audio range for most headsets, with 40mm drivers (albeit graphene this time). However, this time around, we lose the SPDIF optical audio sockets, typically used to connect the base station to a TV or sound system and grab three USB-C ports instead.

The three ports connect up PC, PlayStation / Nintendo Switch, or an Xbox One / Series X|S system simultaneously (although the necessary cables for all three platforms are not included, sadly). We also now have Bluetooth support with dual-source mixing for true multi-modal freedom.

The footprint of the headset is largely the same, using the same plastic shells the company has been using for a while now (and if you have a previous generation's leatherette mod kit, it'll work on the Gen 5, too). However, the base station now has a Logitech logo to reflect the fact it acquired Astro a short while ago.

The headset is still $299 in the United States and is now available to buy at most retailers, notably Amazon and Logitech G itself.

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Astro A50 (Gen 5, 2024): Build Quality and Comfort

Astro has always been relatively exemplary when it comes to building quality, hard-wearing products, and this headset is absolutely no exception. Sporting the same overall design as its predecessor, I know from how badly I've battered the Astro A50 (Gen 4) over the past five years that this is a hard-wearing, hard-working headset that will stand up to the test of time. After five years, some of the paint has worn down on certain parts, but I don't think I've ever abused a headset more than the A50 (Gen 4), which fills me with confidence that the Astro A50 (Gen 5) will offer users the same longevity.

The headset sports runners on either side for easy adjustments, connected with unique clasps on top of an aluminum tube. It's not exactly what I'd call fashionable, but given that it has no detachable microphone, it's unlikely you'll want to use this headset on your daily commute anyway, even if it does have Bluetooth. Design-wise, it looks nice enough, and now it sports red accents instead of the bronze-ish color of its predecessor, which I think looks a bit nicer, at least personally. Design critique is subjective, though.

What I would say is less subjective is how comfortable it is. I'm grateful to report that the Astro A50 (Gen 5) delivers there too. It sports exactly the same design as its predecessor for the most part, which I find to be among the more comfortable headsets I've used as someone with a disproportionately large head and thick hair to boot (I don't think I've ever found a hat that actually fits comfortably). The wide degree of customization should ensure that it fits you pretty well, too, regardless of your cranial requirements.

One aspect of the Astro A50 that I've generally not been a fan of is the fabric earcups. They're not exactly uncomfortable, but I feel like they get warm on the skin over time, and the headband, in particular, is perhaps not as cushioned as it could be. Astro apparently agrees, given that it sells a $50 leatherette A50 mod kit on its website. I picked this up twice because it genuinely makes a big difference to the feel of the headset. In a perfect world, I feel like the leather cushions should come as standard, but it was undoubtedly done to keep costs down on Astro's end. And to be fair, there is a ton on offer here.

The Astro A50 (Gen 5) itself lasts up to 24 hours on a single charge, and the base station is better than ever. On the previous generation's base station, I often found it a bit hard to seat the headset in and sometimes awkward to get the connectors to attach for charging. Astro has improved the base station's ergonomics here, making it much easier to drop and go. It sports a collection of LED lights to let you know the charge status and remind you what mode the headset is in. I usually hate LEDs on devices like this since my "office" is also my bedroom, and having a Christmas disco of LEDs blinking around my bedroom is often annoying. It's made all the more annoying since the base station now requires a dedicated power supply (included in the box), meaning the lights will be on 24/7 if you don't disconnect the power. Thankfully, you can turn the lights off using the Logitech G software app, which, by the way, is pretty good.

Overall, it's a bit of a downer that the headset requires a dedicated power supply now, which might be difficult depending on your setup, but it does have a ton of additional features compared to its predecessor. There aren't really any other headsets on the market that can boast the Astro A50's raw versatility, and that crown looks set to remain with the Gen 5.

Using the Logitech G Hub app, you can easily customize the side tone and noise gate on the mic while setting up EQ profiles for different scenarios. There's also a Bluetooth mobile app that offers similar (albeit more limited) functionality if you don't have access to a PC, but I've found both ultimately cover the basics. It would be nice for both of these apps to get more configuration features, but it still seems relatively fresh for Logitech, at least compared to the old Astro Command Center app, so we'll likely see improvements there over time.

Speaking of Bluetooth, the headset's new headline feature is the ability to be compatible with practically everything. I'll talk a little more about signal strength in the audio section, but what this ultimately represents is Astro doubling down on what makes this headset so unique. The versatility and convenience of the Astro A50 is a big draw, and the ability to switch between PlayStation, PC, and Xbox USB connections with a single headset button is an absolute joy. If you have spare cables, that is. Indeed, the Astro A50 (Gen 5) only comes with enough USB-C cables to support one connected device. I'm sure many of you reading this probably (like me) have a drawer full of black wires "you might need" someday. Well, hey, this might just be that drawer's time to shine.

You can also feed in a second sound source with Bluetooth into the audio mix, which is a really great feature for streamers who want to collect audio from a console while also using a PC for audio configuration or comms.

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Astro A50 (Gen 5, 2024): Audio and Features

The Astro A50 line has never exactly been "mind-blowing" when it comes to sound reproduction, and I think that's part of the compromises Astro has to hit in order to make them so effortlessly versatile. After all, there are many headsets in this price bracket that don't even come close to the Astro A50's feature set while also maintaining the same price point, so it's perhaps to be expected that there are some (very mild) sacrifices to be made somewhere.

That's not to say the Astro A50 (Gen 5) has poor audio, though. Far from it, actually, but if you're particularly passionate about immersive, cinematic sound above all else, there are probably better options worth considering. The Astro A50 (Gen 5) does absolutely deliver, though, overall. It just doesn't get top marks.

The Astro A50 (Gen 5) comes with a potent software solution known as the Logitech G Hub that lets you tune the EQ profile to your preference, but I struggled to get the soundscape to a place where I found it to be truly impressive. It is very serviceable, though, with great, powerful bass when you need it and decent highs and bass highs for situational awareness. Playing Valorant (where hearing footsteps is absolutely crucial) was more than serviceable on this headset, and I never felt like I was disadvantaged by the gear.

The Logitech G offers a balanced wave profile, as well as profiles designed for media and gaming. The media preset is also perhaps best used in single-player cinematic experiences if you don't fancy customizing your setup further.

For tactical play, the headset does the job, but I did find it a bit lacking when it came to raw cinematic immersion, particularly when it came to music and overall soundstage separation. The bass is impressive in these situations, as I mentioned, and an improvement, I'd say, from previous Astro headsets, but the treble and mids treatment can sometimes impede detail in certain corners. Guitars in rock music, for example, don't sound as impressive as they perhaps could, and the narrow sound stage can take the edge off cinematics that would perhaps be better served with a different sound setup. But I can't emphasize how much I'm nitpicking here, honestly. Unless you're very particular about your sound experience, the Astro A50 (Gen 5) more than delivers, as its predecessors do. And sound critique is often quite subjective I find, you might find them to be perfect, particularly if you're a fan of beefy, detailed bass.

One area of the sound experience that is exceptionally impressive is the signal isolation between Bluetooth and the standard 2.4 GHz RF frequencies used by the base station. One pitfall I often struggle with in headsets that try to do dual-source mixing between Bluetooth and their onboard wireless is corruption between the two. I find myself using dual sound sources often as a streamer, feeding comms through my PC while grabbing audio from my Xbox either via SPDIF or Bluetooth, which is one reason I've stuck with the Astro A50 (Gen 4) for so long. Most headsets that incorporate Bluetooth over SPDIF to achieve dual source mixing seem to do a poor job of shielding the signal from interference. Not here, though. I played on Xbox for several hours with the Astro A50 (Gen 5), which was connected directly to my TV with Bluetooth while connected via USB to my PC for Discord. Therein, I didn't experience a single pixel of performance degradation. Top marks there.

Another surprisingly great aspect of this headset is the microphone experience. The Logitech G hub settings let you fine-tune the side-tone mic monitoring and noise gate experience to your liking (although I'm not sure why the feature was under settings rather than microphone there), and it comes with the flip-to-mute feature as standard.

It does all the standard stuff well, but as you can hear in the sample above (you may need to turn off ad blockers if you can't see it), it sounds rather amazing for a "gaming headset." I find that the microphone experience is often left at the gate as an easy area of compromise for a lot of manufacturers, but the Astro A50 (Gen 5) is undoubtedly among the best I've used. I think it might be good enough to be viable for content creation, too, which is not something I'd often suggest. More top marks there for the Astro A50 (Gen 5).

Overall, the Astro A50 (Gen 5) delivers a solid sound experience that perhaps won't win awards by itself but ultimately gets the job well and truly done. Your tactical play in games like Valorant or Call of Duty won't be compromised, and while I think there might be better options for cinematic games or music, it's still a great experience you'll ultimately find satisfying.

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Astro A50 (Gen 5, 2024): Competition

The Astro A50 (Gen 5) is arguably in a league of its own, given its battery charge dock. There are no other real competitors in this space offering something similar, at least not without heavy compromises on other aspects of the overall product.

At least in this price range, the only other option worth considering for multi-platform gaming is the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro wireless, which I also personally heavily use. The SteelSeries has no charge dock stand per se, but it does have a dedicated battery charge dock baked into its nifty LED digital audio controller, which ensures you're pretty much never without battery life. I would say it offers a similar sound experience overall, perhaps with a slight edge over the Astro A50 (Gen 5). It also comes complete with Bluetooth dual-source mixing, but it only supports connections for two USB devices at a time, down from the three offered by the A50. However, the Arctis Nova Pro also comes with active noise canceling (ANC), which might sweeten the deal for those looking for added immersion. The downside is that the headset has a notorious ergonomic defect, where one of the internal microphones for its ANC feature protrudes from the left ear cup and can become quite sore for people with certain ear shapes. It's also $50 more expensive, to boot. However, some have told me that more recent batches of the Arctis Nova Pro have seen improved ergonomics for the internal ANC mic, but there'd be no guarantee you were getting the new model as batches of the first model still likely exist at retailers.

I honestly think that overall, I would probably recommend the Astro A50 (Gen 5) over the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro, which is a couple of years old now and probably due for a refresh to fix some of its (literal) pain points. However, another option worth considering is the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro, which I would argue offers better sound than both of the above, albeit at the cost of multi-USB device compatibility. It also has the worst mic of the three, however.

The Astro A50 (Gen 5) is all about versatility and convenience, and in that arena, it has no equal.

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Astro A50 (Gen 5, 2024): Should you buy?

Simply put, there are no other headsets that really "do it all" without compromises. It could be said that the Astro A50 (Gen 5) is well and truly a "jack of all trades" type of headset (almost), whose every iteration enhances its performance in that category. I think to well and truly be a jack of all trades, Astro may have to explore redesigning the look of the headset while also adding a detachable mic for that "lifestyle" option for those who want something they can use in every aspect of daily life. But that's for another time.

For now, in gaming, specifically multi-platform gaming, the Astro A50 (Gen 5) absolutely has no equal.

You should buy the Astro A50 (Gen 5) if:

✅ You are a multi-platform gamer who values versatility and convenience.
✅ You want a high-quality microphone experience for comms and even content creation.
✅ You want a solid sound experience for tactical multiplayer games.

You should not buy the Astro A50 (Gen 5) if:

❌ You want the absolute best sound stage possible for cinematic gaming.
❌ You don't really need connections now or in the future for multiple gaming platforms.

While the soundscape could be better, and I'm not a huge fan of the "woolly" earcup fabric Astro uses by default, there's so much to love about this headset that it's just a sliver away from scoring 5/5 top marks. I remember when I reviewed earlier versions of the Astro A50 and was really unsure about the $300 price point, but that headset has lasted me five years through constant abuse, with very little battery degradation to speak of. I'm more than confident to say that the price is right now, even if there are a couple of compromises here and there — but I am a creature of comfort and a curator of convenience. If you are as well, then I'm confident you'll adore the Astro A50 (Gen 5).

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What you need to know

• Razer divides its gaming headsets into three distinct families, with the Barracuda line being dedicated to multi-platform, multi-medium listening.
• Today, Razer announced a refresh version of the entry-level Barracuda X, bringing with it a handful of upgrades.
• Number one on the list is the addition of Razer Chroma RGB lighting in each earcup, which is totally expected from Razer at this point.
• The update puts the new Barracuda X Chroma in a bit of a strange position in the larger lineup, but I've gone hands-on with the headset early to give you my first impressions.

I think I speak for all of us when I say it's pretty much expected that Razer will add RGB lighting to literally anything, and lately that has increasingly meant its gaming headsets. Previously confined to the feature-oriented Kraken line, Razer has announced a "Chroma-fied" version of its multi-platform, multi-media Barracuda X wireless headset, appropriately named the Razer Barracuda X Chroma.

The new headset is now available worldwide for $129.99 at Razer, charging you a $30 premium over the standard Barracuda X for the included upgrades. I've gone hands-on with the headset early (and my full review is coming soon), and my first impressions is that this headset feels a bit strange in Razer's current lineup, but nonetheless feels like a solid option for those who highly value the aesthetic features like the RGB lighting.

You can keep scrolling for more, or just head straight to Razer to pick up the headset for yourself in either black or a stylish white (sorry, there's no pink here). That white does look very nice, too, enough that I kind of regret requesting the black to review.

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A minor refresh, but still one that matters for new buyers

When we reviewed the original Razer Barracuda X back in 2022, Windows Central Editor-in-Chief Daniel Rubino concluded, "I loved wearing them; the audio response and low latency made them perfect for movies, gaming, or music. I also really like the flexibility — go wireless or stick a cable in them like all real headphones." Now, nearly two-and-a-half years later, this headset is finally getting a refresh.

Well, a minor one. The Razer Barracuda X Chroma shares many components with its predecessor, enough that this scarcely feels like a new headset at all. The upgrades are minor, and on top of that the Barracuda X Chroma is more expensive than the non-Chroma variant, which remains priced the same as when it released. The end result is a bag of mixed feelings, but at the end of the day this headset still feels like a very solid, entry-level wireless headset. I know, because I've been using them, and I'll have a full review up on Windows Central in the coming weeks.

First, let's discuss what's changed versus the older Barracuda X. The obvious addition is, of course, the 6-zone Razer Chroma RGB lighting embedded in each earcup, which is fully customizable via the Razer Audio mobile app or Razer Synapse PC app. Razer HyperSpeed Wireless returns, but the 2.4GHz dongle is now a much more compact USB Type-C version. Bluetooth connectivity has also been slightly upgraded from 5.2 to 5.3.

Razer has also upgraded the detachable HyperClear Cardioid microphone, although it's not quite clear to me how big of an upgrade that is, yet. Razer also increased the battery life by a fair amount, now up to 70 hours of continual usage versus the 50 hours max of the first Barracuda X. Finally, the overall design has been refined, with the notable addition of a swivel mechanism for greater comfort, sound isolation, and portability.

It's not all upgrades, though. The Razer Barracuda X Chroma loses the ability to connect via 3.5mm audio, which is disappointing. You also gain an extra 35g of weight — this is still a very light headset, but that's a big enough increase that you would notice the difference. Finally, there's the pricing. The Razer Barracuda X is still available for $99.99 at Razer, the same as it when it released, while the new Razer Barracuda X Chroma is retailing for $129.99 at Razer.

In many ways, the Razer Barracuda X Chroma is nearly identical to its predecessor, so that $30 price increase after over two years does sting a little bit. That's especially true because, while the Barracuda X is a very solid $100 wireless gaming headset, that value proposition has been lessened considerably with the Chroma variant. On top of that, you're now within $30 of the Razer Barracuda for $159.99 at Razer, a more premium wireless gaming headset with superior audio and integrated microphones (we reviewed it, by the way).

Speaking of integrated microphones, the Barracuda X Chroma still doesn't boast those, so you're out of luck if you're out and about and need to take a phone call, but forgot the detachable microphone. At this point, you might as well go for the Razer BlackShark V2 HyperSpeed I reviewed, which sound better, weigh less, gain THX Spatial Audio support, and otherwise don't really lose anything versus the Barracuda X Chroma beyond the RGB lighting. Oh, and they're priced the same at $129.99 at Razer.

The one factor that the Barracuda X Chroma has going for it is its design. I admit, this is a very stylish and sleek design that works just as well as a pair of wireless headphones as it does a gaming headset, and the RGB lighting is perfectly integrated into the earcups. That may be enough on its own to opt for these over the mass of ~$130 wireless gaming headsets, including from Razer itself.

My review will be coming soon, but in the meantime the Razer Barracuda X Chroma is quite comfortable to wear and easy to set up. The sound profile is neutral, if a bit flat, and sounds exactly as good as I'd expect from a great headset around the $100 price mark. I'll need to spend more time with the headset to evaluate its battery life, microphone, and sound quality in greater depth.

What you need to know

• Corsair is launching a new gaming headset for Xbox and PC, the Virtuoso Max.
• It features 50mm Graphene drivers, Active Noise Cancelling, Dolby Atmos spatial audio, an omnidirectional microphone, 2.4GHz and Bluetooth wireless connectivity, and 60-hour battery life.
• The Virtuoso Max is available to purchase now at Corsair's official store and will later be released for other retailers, such as Amazon and Best Buy.

Corsair, one of the world's leading manufacturers of top-grade gaming peripherals, accessories, PC hardware, and streaming devices, has announced it has launched a headset for its long line of Virtuoso gaming headsets - the Virtuoso Max. This state-of-the-art headset for Xbox consoles and PC platforms features a variety of cutting-edge technology that will enrich the audio quality of video games to greater heights of immersion than any previous Virtuoso headset.

Here is everything you need to know about the Virtuoso Max.

Virtuoso Max - Features

The Virtuoso Max is equipped with a smorgasbord of features designed to take your auditory gaming experience to the next level with improved sounds and ergonomics. There are exclusive features for the Virtuoso Max headsets dedicated models for Xbox consoles (Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S) and the ones dedicated to PC that take advantage of their respective platforms' technology to amplify the sound of your games even further.

These features include:

• 50mm Graphene Drivers: These advanced drivers will upgrade almost every aspect of a game's audio from music, dialogue, and sound effects with premium grade rendering quality and realistic, precise sounds.
• Immersive Dolby Atmos Spatial Audio (PC version only feature): With Dolby Atmos, you will be able to listen game audio all around you with 3D staging as if you're really in the scene in the game. This feature will allow your ears to pick up the most minute of sound effects and listen to every line of in-game dialogue during cutscenes and gameplay with multi-directional theater-grade quality.
• Omni-Directional Microphone: An omni-directional microphone that can relay the sound of your voice with crystal-clear clarity so people can listen to you better in voice calls or in-game voice chat.
• Active Noise Cancellation: The Active Noise Cancelling feature blocks out distracting noises from the outside world so your immersion during gameplay isn't interrupted.
• Simultaneous 2.4GHz Wireless & Bluetooth: This headset comes packed with 2.4GHz Wireless and Bluetooth connections. Use the super-fast and strong connections of 2.4GHz Wireless mode to listen to games with high quality then switch to Bluetooth mode if you want to listen to use the headset's audio capabilities to listen to mobile apps and music, or chat with your friends online. You can even switch both 2.4GHz Wireless and Bluetooth on simultaneously so you can listen to your music library while gaming at the same time.
• Long Battery Life and quick charge times: The Virtuoso Max can last up to 60 hours of in-game use play and has a quick charge of 15 minutes you can use for another six hours of gaming.
• Premium Aluminum Build and Memory Foam Cushioning: The Virtuoso Max has a sturdy and lightweight aluminum frame complimented with premium-grade cloth ear pads outfitted with soft memory foam cushions. These make it so that the headset is comfortable to wear for long hours of use without being a physical burden on the user.
• Corsair iCUE Software: The headset features a suite of advanced Corsair iCUE Software ranging from pre-tuned audio profiles, on-ear control wheel programming, RGB lightning that can be customized.
• On-Ear Game/Chat Audio Control (Xbox version only feature): The Virtuoso Max headsets built for Xbox consoles feature on-ear game/chat controls that will allow you to balance in-game audio and the voice levels of your friends in a voice call straight from the headset.

On a side note, every Virtuoso Max headset comes with a two-year warranty along with Corsair worldwide customer service and technical support network should you need it.

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• 📺LG Curved OLED Monitor (32-inches) | $899.99 at Amazon (Save $600!)
• 🎮Amazon Fire TV Xbox Game Pass bundle | $74.99 at Amazon (Save $62!)
• 🔊2.1ch Soundbar for TVs & Monitors | $44.99 at Walmart (Save $55!)
• 💻Dell G16 Gaming Laptop (RTX 4070) | $1,299.99 at Dell (Save $450!)
• 🎧Sennheiser Momentum 4 ANC | $249.95 at Amazon (Save $150!)
• 📺LG C4 OLED 4K TV (42-inches) | $949.99 at Best Buy (Save $450!)
• 💻Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge (X Elite) | $799.99 at Best Buy (Save $550!)

Take your game's audio levels beyond maximum levels of immersion with the Virtuoso Max headset

Corsair has garnered a reputation over the years for making some of the best Xbox headsets and best PC gaming headsets on the market.