Razer BlackShark V2 gaming headset review
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(Image: © Future)
Our Verdict
An impressive re-working of the classic BlackShark, and the first gaming headset to really knock the HyperX Cloud Alpha off its perch.
For
- Restrained styling
- Comfortable
- Great audio
- Great value
Against
- Can’t wait for the wireless version…
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The new Razer BlackShark V2 is being billed as the “the definitive esports gaming headset”, but for those of us not affiliated with any 1337-named esports team there’s another way to look at these new Razer cans: the gaming headset to dethrone the HyperX Cloud Alpha.
Yes, it really is that good. From the audio response, comfort, design, and software, the BlackShark V2 is absolutely one of the best gaming headsets available right now, and potentially the best. The fact Razer has kept the price down to a vaguely affordable $100 means it goes head-to-head with the classic HyperX headset, and for my money it’s got it beat.
The original BlackShark was introduced in 2012, with a more industrial design than most and a wireframe microphone to boot. It was immensely popular with the esports community for its audio quality, comfort, and mic clarity, and those are the key pillars that Razer has built the BlackShark V2 on this year.
But this is an all-new headset, not just some iterative update. There’s a new design and this is the first time we’ve seen Razer’s TriForce Titanium 50mm drivers in a set of cans too. The comparison with the Cloud Alpha works here too, as the tuned ports of the new TriForce drivers operate in a not-dissimilar way to the HyperX design. The discrete ports keep the bass, mid, and treble separated to keep the different tones from interfering with each other, much like the dual-chamber layout of the competition.
And it gives a level or aural clarity to the BlackShark V2 that makes me doubly surprised to hear it from a headset that costs just $100. If I’m being very picky I’d maybe say that I can hear a little more separation of the higher frequencies with the HyperX Cloud Alpha—mostly when the THX software is enabled— but there is a richness to the mids, and some velvety bass notes, that you only get with the BlackShark V2.
Image 1 of 2
Razer TriForce Titanium drivers (Image credit: Razer)HyperX Cloud dual chamber driver (Image credit: HyperX)
BlackShark V2 specs
Frequency response – 12Hz – 28,000Hz
Drivers – 50mm Razer TriForce Titanium
Microphone – Razer HyperClear Cardioid
Connection – 3.5mm, USB soundcard
Weight – 262g (0. 6lbs)
The Razer Synapse software then allows you to tune that detailed audio to your heart’s content, thanks to the bundled USB sound card that comes in the box. This also gives you access to that THX Spatial Audio software. To my genuinely complete surprise this actually enhances not just the gaming experience, but also improves the experience of listening to high-resolution music too.
I’m a teeny bit of an audio snob; sporting an obsession with Tidal’s Master Quality Authenticated (MQA) offerings, and I don’t quite have the words to express the slap-bass joy of Rage Against the Machine’s Take the Power Back when played loud on really good audio equipment. My usual headphones are the Audeze LCD-3, a particularly lovely open-back pair of cans rocking planar magnetic drivers. They’re great, for music and gaming, but those advanced drivers make them expensive.
The BlackShark V2 may not quite have the glorious clarity of a well-worn planar magnetic set, but the tonal quality of the TriForce drivers, surprisingly with the THX software in music mode, makes for a fantastic experience.
And they’re great in-game too. Where there’s a warmth to the musical experience that means I’ve been oscillating between the melancholy of Swift’s folklore and the toe-tapping of Seasick Steve’s latest, I’m feeling kinda shellshocked after an explosive Battlefield V tour of duty.
It’s intense and all-encompassing.
(Image credit: Future)
And the THX Spatial Audio comes into play here, delivering detailed game audio as well as clear positional signals and environmental cues. But that’s only going to get better as a week after today’s launch Razer will be launching THX Game Profiles. These are dedicated per-game profiles, accessible via Synapse, that have been specifically tuned with input from the actual game developers themselves. At launch there will be 18 games supported, from Apex Legends, to Valorant, CS: GO, and Modern Warfare.
But as much as the aural experience is absolutely vital, so is the overall design, and this is Razer at its restrained best. There’s a single mic mute toggle and one perfectly simple volume wheel, and that’s it. The braided green cable atop each earcup is the only real nod to colour on the headset, with a notable, and appreciated, lack of RGB LEDs adorning it.
Of all the gaming peripherals in the world, something you wear on your head should definitely not have coloured lights on it. Use something else for peacocking, people.
The BlackShark V2 design is simple, functional, and incredibly comfortable. It’s a touch lighter than the Cloud Alpha and the foam padding may not be as luxurious to look at as leatherette pads, but you’re not going to get as sweaty over a long-term gaming session wearing these. And I’ve been wearing this headset for many a long day now, wearing them for work and play. And seemingly endless video calls.
Image 1 of 2
(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Razer)
Thankfully the microphone is a removable Razer HyperClear Cardioid offering, and it’s been designed for vocal clarity above all else. Even above the actual reproduction of your voice. As standard it’s deliberately lightweight tonally, cutting out a lot of the low-end, but that allows it to cut through when you’re talking. It’s not overly pleasant, but it gets the job done.
The mic equalizer in the Synapse software, however, is able to make all the difference if you want to get a bit of your smooth, deep vocal tonality back.
The Razer BlackShark V2 is a hell of a package, and a hell of a headset. I’m still a big fan of the wireless Razer Threshers, but haven’t really been sold on many of its more recent headsets, and have been extolling the virtues of the Cloud Alpha since I first laid a pre-production version on my head prior to release.
But, thanks to the combination of great value, quality audio, and impressive software, the BlackShark V2 has nudged the HyperX headset from its once-secure place in my heart.
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Razer BlackShark V2
An impressive re-working of the classic BlackShark, and the first gaming headset to really knock the HyperX Cloud Alpha off its perch.
Dave has been gaming since the days of Zaxxon and Lady Bug on the Colecovision, and code books for the Commodore Vic 20 (Death Race 2000!). He built his first gaming PC at the tender age of 16, and finally finished bug-fixing the Cyrix-based system around a year later. When he dropped it out of the window. He first started writing for Official PlayStation Magazine and Xbox World many decades ago, then moved onto PC Format full-time, then PC Gamer, TechRadar, and T3 among others. Now he’s back, writing about the nightmarish graphics card market, CPUs with more cores than sense, gaming laptops hotter than the sun, and SSDs more capacious than a Cybertruck.
Corsair HS65 Surround review | TechRadar
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The Corsair HS65 Surround strikes a fantastic balance between performance and budget
Recommended
(Image: © Future)
TechRadar Verdict
The Corsair HS65 Surround gaming headset features an exceptional 7. 1 surround sound experience and a fantastic headset microphone suitable for multiple uses. There are useful additional features, such as EQ presets, but you shouldn’t really need it to get an amazing 7.1 Surround Sound performance from this headset.
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Corsair HS65 Surround: Two minute review
The Corsair HS65 Surround gaming headset is the company’s new high-powered and cost-conscious gaming headset that delivers exceptional 7.1 surround sound performance for PC gamers.
The 50mm Neodymium audio drivers provide exceptionally clear stereo audio and 7.1 Surround sound virtualized audio, and with the audio in the best PC games becoming increasingly sophisticated, this headset will let you hear battlefield carnage exactly the way that the developers intended.
Jump to
Price and availability
Design
Features
Performance
Should I buy?
Also consider
- Corsair HS65 Surround at Amazon for $39.
99
The headset microphone offers an incredibly crystal clear response with an omni-directional polar mic pattern. Anyone who knows microphone polar patterns might be worried that the omni-directional pattern (as opposed to a cardioid pattern) would pick up too much ambient noise while you’re using the mic. Thankfully this hasn’t been an issue during Counter Strike: Global Offensive sessions or chatting over Zoom.
The surround sound capability of the headset requires you to download Corsair’s iCue software off the company’s website. Once installed, simply plug your headset into the USB to 3.5 mm adapter and connect it to a USB port on your PC or Mac.
There are sure to be other 7.1 Surround Sound gaming headsets hitting the market over the next few months, but keep the Corsair HS65 Surround gaming headset at the top of your wishlist. It is a fantastic, versatile headset that will please any serious gamer on a budget and is easily one of the best PC gaming headsets around for 7. 1 surround sound audio.
Corsair HS65 Surround: Price and availability
(Image credit: Future)
- How much is it? MSRP is $79/£79/AU$119
- When can you get it? The Corsair HS65 Surround is available now
- Where can you buy it? You can get it in the US, UK, and Australia
The Corsair HS65 Surround gaming headset comes in at $79/£79/AU$119, and is available globally. This is a good bit cheaper than some competing gaming headsets like the Razer Kracken V3, which is about 20% more expensive, while still offering the same audio quality.
(Image credit: Future)
- Outstanding comfort
- Adjustable mic
The Corsair HS65 Surround is exceptionally built, featuring an adjustable headband that fits comfortably on any gamer’s head.
The ear pads and the head cushion both feature soft and comfortable memory foam underneath breathable leatherette material. Even after wearing this headset during ten hours of continuous game playing and then three more hours of intense FPS play after a break, the HS65 Surround stayed comfortable throughout.
The headset looks great, stays comfortable, and the closed ear headphones reject distracting noise. The frame is machined out of high quality aluminum and other materials to provide a strong and robust device that will last you for years. A volume control wheel is positioned on the left ear cup for quick volume level adjustments as well.
The microphone boom arm is adjustable and can bend to suit your face. It stays in place once you have set it to your liking. A quick flip up on the boom arm mutes the microphone and a quick flip down unmutes the mic, making muting and unmuting incredibly intuitive in the heat of the moment.
Corsair HS65 Surround: Features
(Image credit: Future)
- iCue Equalizer presets pretty intuitive
- SoundID not worth the effort
- 7.
1 Surround only available through USB
The iCue software itself has three functions to play around with: Equalizer, SoundID Personalization and Device Settings. The Equalizer function allows you to choose between five EQ presets as well as create your own. Unless you know what you’re looking for, set the EQ to “Pure Direct”, as this preset suits everything well.
If you are curious about the EQ presets, the presets are self-explanatory and very intuitive to work with. Presets such as “FPS Competition” will sound great for your competitive shooters like Counter Strike: Global Offensive or Valorant, while “Clear Chat” sounds exceptional during Zoom or Teams meetings.
Corsair HS65 Surround Key Specs
Drivers: Custom 50mm Neodymium
Driver Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
Mic Polar Patterns: Omni-directional
Mic Frequency Response: 100Hz – 10kHz
Compatibility: Windows, Android, MacOS, iOS, PS5, PS4, XBox series X | S, Nintendo Switch
Weight: 282 grams
Cord Length: Approx. 6 feet
Color: Black or White/Grey
The only real criticism here is that the SoundID function is underwhelming. The SoundID technology attempts to create a customized EQ setting for the user based on how the user rates their enjoyment of certain sound clips. Once you go through the SoundID setup process, you should have a customized EQ preset for your optimized listening preferences.
However, multiple attempts – including a full reinstall with the latest iCue software – resulted in EQ presets that often made the audio worse. Audio for games will usually be recorded and mixed by professional sound engineers anyway, so all the EQ and volume levels should already be optimized for the user’s experience. Fortunately, this isn’t something you really need to dabble with. The safest bet is to just choose “Pure Direct” under the Equalizer function in the iCue software and jump right into the action, which otherwise sounds amazing.
The final function in the iCue software would be the Device settings. This is where you can enable Voice prompts, boost microphone response and change the Case color of your headphones within the iCue software. The only option that is useful here is “Mic Boost”, which gives your microphone some added sensitivity. Otherwise, this rounds out the features of the iCue software.
Corsair HS65 Surround: Performance
(Image credit: Future)
- 7.1 Surround Sound is outstanding
- Great bass response
- Great mic performance
These drivers on the Corsair HS65 Surround have no problem pushing sound through the 20hz-20khz audio range while its bass frequencies carry real weight. The mids and highs of dialogue and various sound effects come through incredibly clear.
The headset mic captures frequencies from 100Hz to 10 kHz, and while this seems like a limited range of frequency response, it is tailored specifically to capture the human voice really well.
The 7.1 Surround Sound capability is accessible through Corsair’s iCue software with Windows Spatial Sound active, found under the properties menu of your output device in Windows’ sound settings.
Any media that was recorded and mixed for 7.1 Surround will play exceptionally well over the HS6 Surround. Thankfully, most games and shows presently record for 7.1 Surround Sound, but keep in mind that not all games or media are or have. With these older games and media, the headphones themselves won’t turn a game recorded in 5.1 surround into 7.1 surround, but it will still sound stunning.
Since the iCue program itself is what creates the 7.1 Surround Sound virtualization for the headset, you can’t access that feature on PC or Mac without it.
The Corsair HS65 Surround stands up well against competitors like the Razer Kraken V3 Hypersense and the HyperX Cloud Alpha. Many competing headsets offer options which you don’t really need, like detachable mics or the Kraken V3 Hypersense’s haptic functionality. These options aren’t high on the list of necessities with gamers, so why pay more for options you don’t need?
Older devices, monitors, and gaming consoles almost always have a 3. 5mm input jack, but not every gaming headset does. With the HS Surround, you can plug in and at the very least get crystal clear stereo audio, even if you have to skip the surround sound feature.
There are exceptions, though, where you can get 7.1 Surround Sound with modern next-gen gaming consoles. The XBox Series X utilizes Dolby Atmos and the Sony PS5’s Tempest 3D Audio virtualizes the sound of 7.1 Surround Sound through the gaming console itself, and the Corsair HS65 Surround easily supports the audio capabilities of both of these consoles, making it a winner for PC gamers and beyond.
Should you buy a Corsair HS65 Surround?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if…
You want the best 7.1 surround sound
7.1 surround sound for your PC or next-gen gaming consoles never sounded so good.
You want a 3.5mm headset
This headset bucks the trend away from 3.5mm and still provides a USB adapter if needed.
You want a headset that will be comfortable for hours
Between the closed back ear cups and adjustable headband, this headset can keep up with the longest gaming sessions.
Don’t buy if…
You want a wireless headset
The HS65 Surround is a strictly wired affair with no wireless or Bluetooth options.
You have more money to spend
While this headset offers fantastic sound for the price, you can get better 7.1 surround sound in more premium (and expensive) headsets.
Also consider
Razer Kraken V3 Hypersense
One of the best haptic headsets on the market that also provides a terrific audio experience in 7.1 Surround Sound and colorful RGB features. It is more expensive though, even when you skip the haptics.
Read the full Razer Kraken V3 Hypersense review
HyperX Cloud Alpha
A strong contender in the surround sound headset space, it features a detachable microphone and amazing virtual 7.1 Surround Sound, but costs a bit more as well.
Read the full HyperX Cloud Alpha (2022) review
Astro A50 Gaming Headset
A premium gaming headset that features Dolby virtual surround sound. As a wireless option, it comes complete with a charging station and while the audio performance is outstanding, it has problems canceling noise. It’s also more than three times the price of the HS65 Surround. If you’ve got the money to spend though, definitely give it a look.
Read the full Astro A50 Gaming Headset review
Corsair HS65 Surround: Price Comparison
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Jeffrey (he/him/his) is an Audio Visual professional who has spent years working in the Corporate Audio Visual Industry. Specializing in audio, video, lighting, and computers, he has developed a deep interest in all live sound and event technology. Jeffrey currently lives in Texas.
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In 2021, for the first time in history, a Russian team won the prestigious international Dota 2 esports tournament and received $18.2 million in reward. The victory inspired gamers even more, and fewer and fewer parents began to resent that their children were sitting at the computer for hours. Jokes aside, but in esports, as in any sport, equipment is important. And the headphones have their rightful place here.
Why use gaming headphones? They really help win. The better the sound, the more likely it is to catch the opponent’s movement, get around him and, thereby, win the trophy. Often in the game (especially in “shooters”) you can hear how the opponent is walking, and it is important to catch which side. In some virtual missions, audio is an integral part of the mission.
Gaming headphones are comfortable. They are designed so that nothing distracts from the virtual battle. A long wire and a reliable braid – and now you are already traveling around on a chair in a room without fear of getting confused. As a rule, their protection is reliable, it doesn’t care about corners, rolling on a chair, pet teeth … In a word, they won’t break.
Finally, the headphones immerse you in virtual reality – surround sound creates the effect of being in the game. By the way, for this reason, many people like to watch movies in gaming headphones. Moreover, at a high quality level.
Most often, gaming headphones are overhead, full-size. They have good sound insulation. But the connection method is not important here. Wireless are good if you are ready to constantly monitor charging. It is worth paying attention to the microphone, because gamers often communicate with each other in the game.
In product descriptions, you can find such terms as “ 7.1 sound and “ 3D sound “. The 7.1 format applies not only to speakers, but also to headphones. Yes, 7.1 sound is seven speakers placed around the room and one subwoofer. And in headphones, this term is used for the most part as a marketing ploy. The manufacturer uses it to emphasize technologies that allow you to get surround sound quality. Naturally, there are no built-in “columns”.
3D sound also exists in various gadgets and is used not only in home theater. Of course, as in the case of 7.1, this is not about speakers that are arranged along three perpendicular axes. And about high-quality surround sound, achieved with the help of technical and software manipulations.
Editor’s Choice
1MORE SONOFLOW
1MORE SONOFLOW. Photo: 1MORE
Full-size wireless headphones with LDAC support. This wireless audio transmission format is appreciated by gamers, audiophiles, moviegoers for the highest sound quality. Transmission is carried out using the Bluetooth 5.0 protocol at a speed of 990 Kbps.
Built-in 40mm driver with DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) composite diaphragm and soft PET film delivers rhythmic bass, warm mids and crisp highs (up to 40kHz). The earphones are equipped with several microphones that pick up sounds from different directions and pass them through a digital signal processor. As a result, the interlocutor hears your voice clearly and without interference.
In addition, the model is equipped with 12 studio-grade equalizer presets (adjustable in the 1 MORE MUSIC app), suitable for most music genres (hip-hop, pop, electronic and more) and QuietMax noise reduction technology. The 720 mAh battery charges in 80 minutes and lasts for 50 hours, while a five-minute charge is enough for five hours of headphone use. However, when offline noise canceling is turned off, you can listen to music continuously for up to 70 hours.
Soft protein leather ear cushions keep your ears comfortable during extended periods of music or online events, and the headband is adjustable for each wearer. The device also supports wired connection in passive mode – the kit includes an audio cable with a 3.5 mm jack for connecting to a smartphone, tablet, laptop or other device, which will allow you to continue the conference or listen to tracks when the battery is low. Headphones can be connected to two devices at the same time (such as a smartphone and tablet), and quickly switch between music, online meetings or calls.
Main specifications
Playback frequency | 2.400 GHz ~ 2.4835 GHz |
Connection type | wireless/wired |
Connector | 3.5 mm |
Battery capacity | 720 mAh |
Charging time | 80 minutes |
Play time (ANC off) | 70 h |
Play time (ANC on) | 50 h |
Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Bluetooth range | 10 m |
Bluetooth protocols | HFP / A2DP / AVRCP |
Operating temperature | 0 +45℃ |
Dimensions | 170 x 1 92 x 82 mm |
Weight | 250 g |
Pros and cons
High-speed audio transmission, noise reduction technology, battery life up to 70 hours, work in passive mode – 3. 5 mm audio cable included
Not detected
1MORE SONOFLOW. Photo: 1MORE1MORE SONOFLOW. Photo: 1MORE1MORE SONOFLOW. Photo: 1MORE1MORE SONOFLOW. Photo: 1MORE1MORE SONOFLOW.
SteelSeries Arctis 9
SteelSeries Arctis 9. Photo: market.yandex.ru
SteelSeries Arctis 9 headphones – their quality justifies the high price. They sound professional, and handle games, music and movies equally well.
The headset is easy to use. It can be connected to two sound sources at once, for example, to play and listen to music from a smartphone. A separate wheel helps to balance between the volume of the game and chat.
The headphones have a powerful battery that allows you to actively play for 20 hours straight.
Durable construction and long service life. The kit includes ear pads, and the sound is controlled by a switch on the headphones. The retractable bi-directional noise-canceling microphone makes the sound perfect.
Main characteristics
Playback frequency | 20 – 20000 Hz |
Connection type | wireless |
Connector | USB |
Wireless range | 12 m |
18 | 20 h |
Package contents | headset, USB charging cable, wireless transmitter |
Pros and cons
Holds charge well, excellent sound and noise isolation, supports Play station and Bluetooth
Not everyone is comfortable with ear pads, you need to adjust the sound. If the battery is dead, the microphone cannot be used with a wired connection
Logitech G Pro X Wireless
Logitech G Pro X Wireless. Photo: market.yandex.ru
Voice transmission is a five-plus, they support Blue Voice technology – this is voice filtering when recording in real time. Thus, background noise is reduced, and the user’s voice becomes richer. As if broadcasting a TV presenter.
Comes with a rich set of interchangeable ear pads, sound card, cables for connecting to different types of devices, case. The design is decent, suitable not only for eSports, but also appropriate for the office. The design is comfortable due to the adjustment and soft lining of the headband. The frame is metal, which means “indestructible”.
They are configured using the proprietary G HUB control center, which can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website.
Separately, we can note the speakers. They support surround sound, are also suitable for listening to music, and they are in the top of the best in the transfer of special effects in films and games.
Main characteristics
Playback frequency | 20 – 20000 Hz |
Connection type | wired |
Connector | mini jack 3.5 mm combo |
Microphone | detachable |
Weight | 320 g 902 18 |
Controls | volume, mute |
Pros and cons
Surround sound, quality construction, attractive design button
HyperX Cloud Flight S
HyperX Cloud Flight S. Photo: market.yandex.ru
The best wireless gaming headphones in the comparatively budget segment, gaming headphones with 7.1 sound. Provides 30 hours of active play without charging. You can use a cable. There are two connection methods – 3.5 mm and USB.
They have a foldable design, so they are convenient to take with you even in a small bag, as well as store – they do not take up much space.
Gives a loud clear sound. Soft ear cushions are comfortable and protect against extraneous sounds. The microphone is removable, with noise reduction. Headphones are compatible with many gadgets, including Xbox One and Playstation 4.
Main features
Playback frequency | 10 – 20000 Hz |
Microphone | yes, noise canceling |
Weight | 320 g |
Pros and cons
Long battery life, wireless charging, microphone mute indicator
Audio quality through microphone, may interfere
SteelSeries Arctis 7P
SteelSeries Arctis 7P. Photo: market.yandex.ru
In short, this is a quality sound and a comfortable fit. The wireless headset is designed specifically for the PlayStation, but is perfectly compatible with PC, Android, Nintendo Switch. The sound is transmitted over a high-frequency radio channel, and a bidirectional microphone transmits the slightest breath of the player.
Stay in these headphones for many hours of comfort thanks to soft ear cushions made of proprietary material. In addition, the gamer does not interfere with the household. The headset has sound isolation, which does not let any noise into the outside world.
As a nice bonus – Velcro elastic bands, the length can be easily adjusted.
Charge allows you to play all day long. The main advantage of the model is its versatility. The included USB can be connected to your favorite device.
Main features
Playback frequency | 20 – 20000 Hz |
Microphone | yes, with noise reduction |
Sensitivity | 98 dB |
Pros and cons
There is an equalizer, attractive design, build quality and sound quality
Sound distortion can occur at high volume
Sennheiser G4ME ZERO 90 010 Sennheiser G4ME ZERO.
Photo: market.yandex.ru
Wired gaming headphones with the best microphone. Closed stereo headset. It is important to know that this model does not have software, the headset is connected only through analog inputs.
The set includes a case in which it is easy to carry or store the headphones. There are also two detachable cables for connecting the headset to different devices. But the microphone here is surprisingly not removable.
The ear pads are made of high quality leatherette material, guarantee good sound isolation and do not wear out over time.
The headphones have two mini jack sockets. The frequency range of operation is high, which indicates a professional level. The microphone in the model is built into the left bowl. To turn it off, just turn it to a vertical position.
Main features
Playback frequency | 10 – 20000 Hz |
Connector | 2 x mini jack 3. |
Microphone | yes, noise canceling |
Microphone frequency response | 50 – 16000 Hz |
Optional cable | 1.2 m |
Pros and cons
Good sound and noise isolation, light weight, excellent microphone
Build quality, uncomfortable cable, weak bass
JBL Quantum One
JBL Quantum One. Photo: market.yandex.ru
Illuminated, wired gaming headphones with 3D sound.
A nice package that includes a 3.5 mm audio cable, calibration microphone, detachable boom microphone, windproof microphone foam and a USB adapter cable with game-chat balance adjustment.
Made of durable plastic. The control panel is located on the left cup. One of the features is the backlight. In the JBL Quantum Engine app, it can either be disabled or configured.
Good bass, highs are normal. The volume is not high, but it is enough for watching movies or playing games in a quiet place. There is an active noise cancellation feature.
Main features
Playback frequency | 20 – 40000 Hz |
Microphone mount | fixed |
Sensitivity | 97 dB |
Pros and cons
Quality build, good materials, comfortable fit
Not a very good sound at maximum volume, settings can “fly off”
Logitech G733
Logitech G733. Photo: market.yandex.ru
Good gaming headphones with backlight and fabric ear cushions. Multi-channel headset with good surround sound, “stuffing” allows you to call the model professional. There is a multi-colored RGB backlight that will “cheer up” the gamer. She reacts to sound. That is, it can be configured and it will give out certain sound reactions.
The design has a memory property, that is, it takes the shape of the player’s head, you can comfortably use them for a long time. The microphone is unidirectional, but with a volume control.
The wireless headset is also great for watching movies. Moreover, you can move around the apartment – the range is up to 20 meters.
The microphone in this model is of high quality, does not distort the voice and transmits even minor noises.
Key features
Playback frequency | 20 – 20000 Hz |
Connection type | wireless |
Connector | USB |
Removable microphone | yes |
Weight | 320 g |
Wireless headset range | 20 m 9 0218 |
Battery life | 29h |
Pros and cons
Lightweight design, easy to use on/off button, stylish design
Normal sound, nothing special. There may be interference, quiet microphone
HyperX Cloud Orbit S
HyperX Cloud Orbit S. Photo: market.yandex.ru
The best gaming headphones for a computer: magnetic planar emitters, excellent sound. Headphones are wired. Please note that Bluetooth is not provided. Their distinguishing feature is that with a large size, which is just right for gamers, they are comfortable. The ear pads completely block out external noise. The cups are easy to turn, so the design is easy to fold.
Although the headset is wired, you need to charge via USB, because there is a built-in battery. And this “recharge” is needed if the headphones work through a mini-jack. If you connect to a phone or computer via USB, then the headphones are charged directly.
Sound quality, or rather its volume, is achieved with support for 7.1 (eight-channel surround sound audio system) or Hi-Res Audio – high-resolution audio. These modes can be switched depending on the game. A feature of the model is tracking the position of the head and automatic sound adjustment. Coupled with 3D sound, the environment in the game is more than real.
Main features
Playback frequency | 10 – 50000 Hz |
Connection type | with wire |
Connector | USB / 2 x mini jack 3.5 mm |
Removable microphone | yes |
Sensitivity | 12 0 dB |
Noise-canceling microphone | yes |
Battery life | 10h |
Pros and cons
High sound quality, easy app control, built-in amplifier
Quiet microphone, plastic build, weak construction
SteelSeries Arctis Pro USB 9 0010 SteelSeries Arctis Pro USB. Photo: market.yandex.ru
High-quality wired headphones with a microphone for games. The headset has high-density magnet drivers that are capable of reproducing sound almost twice the standard frequency range. The game becomes “alive”.
The headphones are equipped with special technology to synchronize lighting effects with all SteelSeries devices. The volume control is on the earpiece. You can completely disconnect the cable, you can also connect a regular cable with a 3.5 mm jack to the headset. The ear pads are easy to remove and are made of breathable material.
Gamer style design. Equipped with a bi-directional microphone with noise reduction function. The model is perfect for games that require precise positioning.
Main features
Playback frequency | 10 – 40000 Hz |
Connection type | with wire |
Connector | USB |
Sensitivity | 102 dB |
Noise-canceling microphone | yes |
Foldable design | yes |
Pros and cons0003
The microphone can distort the voice, unreliable assembly, no carrying case
HyperX Cloud Alpha S
HyperX Cloud Alpha S. Photo: market.yandex.ru
The model has interchangeable ear pads with shape memory. There are no modern chips, such as lighting or software. However, the frame looks stylish and expensive, and most importantly, it is reliable due to the metal structure and the lack of “gloss”.
You can pinpoint where the sound is coming from with these headphones. It is also easy to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the game. The model is also suitable for watching movies and streams.
The microphone does not distort the voice, suppresses extraneous noise. The microphone, by the way, is removable for the headphones, it can be installed in the most convenient position for yourself. Connect to the device using a cable with a universal 3.5 mm mini jack connector. The volume control is located on the wire.
Headphones support HyperX 7.1 technology for surround sound and are compatible with Playstation 4.
Key Features
0218 | 13 – 27000 Hz |
Connection type | with cable |
Connector | mini jack 3. |
Sensitivity | 99 dB |
Noise-canceling microphone | yes |
Pros and cons
900 02 Clear sound, comfortable fit, attractive appearance
Short cord, quiet microphone, awkward sound adjustment
Asus ROG Theta 7.1
Asus ROG Theta 7.1. Photo: market.yandex.ru
There are no complaints about the sound quality. Surround audio is achieved thanks to the speakers. There are eight of them, and four more amplifiers. So the effect of reality in this model is on top, there is also intelligent noise reduction – adjustment to the surrounding reality.
However, the headphones are quite massive, but at the same time heavy-duty. The microphone is located on a removable leg, and the switched off microphone will signal with a backlight. The cable is additionally protected from kinks. Headphones can be controlled using ASUS Armory software.
Main features
Playback frequency | 20 – 40000 Hz |
Microphone type | dynamic |
Microphone arm | movable |
Pros and cons
Comfortable ear pads, 8-channel surround sound, good build quality
Heavy build, software lags , solid wires
How to choose gaming headphones
Evgeny Filippov, manager of the network of interStore service centers, spoke about the intricacies of choosing gaming headphones and answered popular questions from readers.
Before you buy a gaming headphone, look at such parameters as:
Design, shape
Choose headphones that have a double headband design. Usually it is a metal “rim” and a soft lining under the head. Thus, the cups will fit snugly to the ears. Ear pads matter too. It is better to choose foam ones – they have a memory function, they are breathable.
Microphone
This element is very important, because in online games you often have to communicate with teammates. Sometimes and perform tasks where the “voice” is needed. Opt for a highly sensitive microphone with active noise cancellation.
Specifications
Look for surround sound. So you get an advantage over your opponent, hearing even his distant steps in the rear. Choose headphones that emphasize low frequencies and have a sensitivity of at least 105 dB.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I connect my gaming headphones to my computer?
There are several options:
– connect headphones with a microphone via 3.