Razer BlackShark V2 X Gaming Headset Review immersive sound, comfort, and top-tier performance unveiled

Description

Stylish and Lightweight Design

The Razer BlackShark V2 X Gaming Headset immediately caught my eye with its sleek, aviation-inspired design. Despite its sturdy build, the headset weighs just 240g, which makes it one of the lightest gaming headsets I’ve ever used. The breathable memory foam ear cushions are incredibly comfortable even during marathon gaming sessions, and they wrap snugly around the ears for a secure fit. I found that the design not only looks great but also serves a functional purpose—helping reduce fatigue during extended use.

The retractable cable is another thoughtful touch, making the headset easier to store and less prone to tangling. However, the lack of water resistance might be a concern if you’re prone to spills. Still, the overall build quality feels premium, and it looks like this headset is built to last.

Immersive Audio Performance

I’ve tested a lot of gaming headsets, but the audio quality on this one stands out. Powered by TriForce Titanium 50mm drivers, the sound is crisp and well-balanced across highs, mids, and lows. Whether I was dodging bullets in an FPS game or soaking in the music in an open-world RPG, the audio clarity was nothing short of exceptional. The 7.1 Surround Sound feature, while only available on Windows 10, is a game-changer for positional audio. I could pinpoint enemy movements with uncanny accuracy, which genuinely gave me an edge.

Bass enthusiasts will appreciate the deep, powerful lows, and the mids and highs are equally rich, making this headset versatile enough for gaming, music, and even business calls. One minor downside is that the surround sound is software-enabled, so you’ll need to install drivers to make the most of it.

Unparalleled Noise Isolation

The passive noise cancellation on this headset is surprisingly effective. The closed earcup design and plush cushions create a tight seal, blocking out background noise like the hum of my PC or chatter in the next room. This made it much easier to focus on my game without distractions. While it’s not active noise cancellation, the passive isolation works so well that it’s hard to complain.

However, I noticed that the noise isolation is heavily dependent on getting the perfect fit. If the earcups aren’t seated properly around your ears, some sound can leak in. It’s not a dealbreaker, but something to keep in mind.

Razer HyperClear Cardioid Mic

The Razer HyperClear cardioid microphone is one of the highlights of this headset. My teammates commented on how clear my voice sounded during multiplayer games, with minimal background noise. The mic’s pickup pattern is designed to focus on your voice while tapering off sounds from the sides and back, which is great if you’re gaming in a noisy environment.

That said, the mic is not detachable, which might be inconvenient if you plan to use this headset for casual listening or on the go. It also picks up some plosive sounds (like “p” and “b”) if positioned too close to your mouth, so a pop filter would have been a nice addition.

Cross-Platform Compatibility

One of the biggest boons of this headset is its cross-platform compatibility. It works seamlessly with PC, Mac, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and even mobile devices via the 3.5mm audio jack. I tested it across multiple devices, and the audio quality remained consistent throughout. For Xbox One users, you might need to purchase a stereo adapter separately, but for everyone else, it’s plug-and-play simplicity.

Having a single headset that works across all my devices is incredibly convenient. I no longer need to switch between different headsets, which is a huge plus point for gamers like me who use multiple platforms.

Positives

• Exceptional audio clarity with rich lows, mids, and highs.
• 7.1 Surround Sound makes positional audio highly accurate (Windows 10 only).
• Comfortable and lightweight design for extended gaming sessions.
• Effective passive noise isolation for a distraction-free experience.
• Cross-platform compatibility ensures versatility.

Areas for Improvement

• Surround sound requires software installation, limiting out-of-the-box functionality.
• Non-detachable microphone might not suit all users.
• Noise isolation depends heavily on the fit of the earcups.

Competing Products

When compared to other options like the HyperX Cloud II or Logitech G Pro X, the BlackShark V2 X holds its own. The HyperX Cloud II offers similar sound quality but lacks the TriForce drivers, which provide better audio separation. On the other hand, the Logitech G Pro X features a detachable mic and a slightly more premium build, but it’s heavier and less comfortable for long gaming sessions.

The BlackShark V2 X excels in comfort and cross-platform compatibility, making it a more versatile choice. However, if you’re looking for active noise cancellation or wireless functionality, you might want to explore other models.

Bang for the Buck

This headset offers fantastic value for money, especially considering its premium audio performance, lightweight design, and cross-platform compatibility. While it lacks some advanced features like active noise cancellation or wireless connectivity, its core features more than justify the investment. Gamers and casual users alike will appreciate the balance of quality and affordability.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely, but with the caveat that you should be okay with its wired design and software-dependent surround sound. For anyone who prioritizes comfort and audio quality, it’s a standout choice.

Additional information