What you need to know
- Razer launched a new addition to its Kraken series of headsets, the Kraken X.
- Built to be as light as possible, the headset weighs in at 0.55 pounds but still brings 7.1 surround sound to the table..
- Console and PC versions are available now for $50 from Razer.
Razer this week launched the Kraken X headset, a new, light-weight addition to the Kraken lineup. While the headset itself strives for comfort by shedding as much weight as possible, Razer has kept the headset's soundstage full with 7.1 surround sound support.
The Kraken X weighs in at just over half a pound (250 grams) – something Razer says it was able to accomplish by taking the base Kraken design and trimming it down. The Kraken X is a wired headset, and it includes a bendable cardioid microphone on the left earcup. Integrated microphone controls and volume controls are also included on the left side for when you need to make quick adjustments.
| Category | Razer Kraken X |
|---|---|
| Headphone Frequency Response | 12 Hz – 28 kHz |
| Headphone Impedance | 32 Ω @ 1 kHz |
| Headphone Sensitivity (@1 kHz) | 106 dB |
| Drivers | 40 mm, with Neodymium magnets |
| Inner ear cup diameter | 65 x 44 mm |
| Connection Type | Analog 3.5 mm |
| Cable Length | 1.3 m / 4.27 ft |
| Weight | 250g / 0.55lbs |
| Mic Frequency Response | 100 Hz – 10 kHz |
| Mic Signal-to-Noise Ratio | ≥ 55 dB |
| Mic Sensitivity (@1 kHz) | -42 ± 3 dB |
| Pick-up pattern | Unidirectional ECM boom |
| On-Earcup Control | Volume up and down, Microphone quick mute toggle |
| Surround Sound | 7.1, available on Windows 10 64-bit |
| Colors | Black or black with blue highlights |
We've been rocking the Kraken X's for a few hours now. Initial impressions are they are some of the lightest over-the-ear headphones we have sampled making them ideal for long gaming sessions.
Materials feel good for the modest $50 price tag though you do sacrifice things like a retractable mic boom, or double-banded design. That said, you won't find many $50 headphones that also have 7.1 surround sound making these an interesting consideration.
The Kraken X is now available directly from Razer for $50 in either black or black with blue highlights for the console version. Regardless of which version you pick up, it will work across a variety of devices thanks to its 3.5mm jack.
The Razer Kraken X takes the same design that Razer has perfected with the Kraken series and shaves off some extra weight. The result is a light-weight headset aimed at providing all-day comfort with 7.1 surround sound.
Affordable accessories that'll pair perfectly with your PC
Every one of these awesome PC accessories will enhance your everyday experience — and none cost more than $30.
KLIM Aim RGB gaming mouse ($30 at Amazon)
Whether you're a gamer or not, this is an absurdly good mouse for the price. It's ambidextrous, has a responsive sensor, a braided cable, tank-like build quality, and, yes, it has RGB lighting, though you can turn it off if that's not your thing.
AmazonBasics USB speakers ($16 at Amazon)
These neat little speakers may only pack 2.4W of total power, but don't let that fool you. For something so small you get a well-rounded sound and a stylish design. And they only cost $16.
Razer mouse bungee ($20 at Amazon)
Use a wired mouse? You need a mouse bungee to keep your cable tidy and free of snags. You get no drag on the cable, and this one has subtle styling, a rust-resistant spring and a weighted base, all for $20.
