Active noise cancellation is a weakness because reviewers who addressed it said ANC is missing or that the headset is not an ANC model.
Across reviews, ANC is consistently described as unusually strong for a gaming headset, effectively cutting low rumbles and much of the surrounding office or home noise. Several reviewers say it helps them miss voices and distractions even at moderate volume. Noise canceling can be toggled and adjusted via onboard controls and companion software. Tuning options exist, but some reviewers note mode feedback relies on chimes rather than clear voice prompts, which can be confusing.
Android support appears through the mobile app evidence, with reviewers noting Android/Google Play availability for the Navigator app.
The app is a strength: reviewers found it easy, clean, useful, flexible, and available for headset tuning and setup on mobile platforms.
App support includes a PC-focused hub and a mobile companion, giving access to EQ, profiles, and certain feature toggles. Several reviewers mention that settings can overwrite between apps or feel barebones, but the core control options are there.
Latency-related sync is strong in the evidence, with no noticeable lag, low-latency gameplay audio, and under-20 ms wireless latency mentioned.
Audio-video sync and latency performance are repeatedly praised when using the 2.4GHz dongle or wired connection, making it well-suited to competitive play. Bluetooth is positioned as secondary, with LE Audio helping but not replacing the dongle for lowest latency.
Bass is present and useful but not consistently described as head-shaking; reviewers noted boost options, serious punch, good bass, and a warmer profile in some use.
Bass is generally punchy for explosions and gunfire, but impressions vary by default profile: some find it underwhelming, others say it can get muddy or overbearing in certain mixes. Most agree EQ can dial in a better balance.
Battery life is a major strength, repeatedly cited as 60+ hours and strong enough to reduce charging anxiety during normal gaming use.
Battery life is commonly rated average for the price: about 30 hours quoted, but real-world results vary widely by ANC and usage, with heavy ANC sessions dropping into the teens and ANC-off testing stretching much longer. Many comparisons note rivals at similar prices last significantly longer or offer hot-swap batteries.
Bluetooth support is consistently present and useful, with Bluetooth 5.2, phone connection, and dual-mode phone-call support mentioned across reviews.
Bluetooth connectivity is generally described as quick and reliable for phones and secondary devices. It is often used for music or chat while gaming through the dongle. Simultaneous dongle plus Bluetooth audio is a major highlight, enabling dual-source setups for game audio plus phone audio. Reviewers generally find it genuinely useful for modern gaming routines.
Build quality is generally solid, with reviewers calling the headset rock solid or durable, though one disliked the feel of the matte plastic.
Build quality gets a generally positive but not luxury verdict: the headset is light and often described as well-made, yet its plastic construction can feel hollow or less premium than heavier competitors. Durability is usually considered adequate for normal use.
Controls are generally easy to use and locate by feel, with simple button layouts, one-sided controls, and clear physical controls mentioned.
Control usability is mostly praised thanks to distinct shapes, spacing, and tactile buttons, especially for mic mute and game-chat balance. Complaints center on a finicky volume wheel in some contexts and chime-based feedback that can be hard to interpret.
Cable quality received limited criticism from one reviewer, who described the included USB-C cable as short and non-fancy.
Carry case quality is weak because the relevant review noted that the headset did not come with a case.
Carrying case quality is typically described as a soft pouch or bag, sometimes with useful pockets, but not as protective as a hardshell case at this price. It is functional for light travel rather than rugged protection.
Charging is one of the strongest convenience features, centered on the dock/base station, magnetic or contact charging, and habit-forming storage between sessions.
Fast charging is a clear plus, with multiple reviews citing a short top-up yielding meaningful play time. Full charge times and use-while-charging behavior are reported inconsistently across sources, but quick top-ups are broadly praised.
Clamp comfort is mixed: some reviewers found the clamp firm or medium, while another said it was not vise-like and comfortable with glasses.
Clamping force is generally low, which improves comfort and reduces hotspots. The tradeoff is that a few reviewers experienced minor shifting during movement.
Codec support is functional rather than audiophile-focused: reviews mention standard Bluetooth codecs plus LE Audio support, but also note the absence of premium options like LDAC or aptX. This aligns with its gaming-first positioning.
Comfort is generally positive for long use, especially in reviews praising prolonged sessions and cozy wear, though one review called comfort middling and another wanted a little more comfort.
Comfort during long use is one of the strongest consensus positives, with many calling it among the most comfortable premium headsets they have tested. The lightweight chassis and breathable materials are repeatedly credited for marathon sessions.
Connectivity versatility is a core selling point, covering 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth, console/PC use, dongles, and simultaneous modes, with some caveats.
Console compatibility has a real limitation: one review emphasized that a buyer must choose PS5 or Xbox rather than getting both in one headset.
Design is mostly clean and modern, with reviewers liking the low-key look and RGB flair, while one review found the design fairly standard.
Design is often described as understated and premium-looking for a gaming headset, especially with the mic removed, and available in multiple colorways. Some dislike the headband aesthetic or note finishes that show marks easily.
Detachable mic convenience is weak because reviewers repeatedly noted the boom is fixed, non-removable, or not retractable.
The detachable boom mic is a practical plus for portability and aesthetics, letting the headset look more like regular headphones when removed. Some reviewers still prefer a stowable design to avoid misplacing the mic.
The USB-C dongle is important for platform switching and wireless use, but reviewers also noted manual swapping and dock dependency in some setups.
The USB-C 2.4GHz dongle is consistently valued for low-latency, stable wireless on PC and supported consoles. Its PC/Other switch is frequently mentioned as convenient for moving between devices.
Ear padding is mostly praised for depth, memory foam, plushness, and moisture-wicking fabric, although one reviewer disliked how the cups rested on the ears.
Earcup padding is widely praised for being plush, deep, and often breathable fabric, helping reduce heat build-up. The extra depth also helps keep ears from pressing into inner surfaces compared with some Sony over-ears.
Ear cup movement is mixed but mostly useful, with swivel cups praised by some reviewers and one reviewer criticizing the slanted feel.
Earcup swivel range is a standout, with several reviewers noting full rotation and the ability to lay the cups flat in both directions. This helps with neck resting and storage in the included pouch.
Earpad replacement is easy where discussed, thanks to magnetic pads that peel off, swap out, or come off without complicated tools.
EQ customization is well supported through bass boost, presets, expert mode, and multi-band EQ controls inside the app.
Equalizer customization is robust enough to meaningfully change the headset, typically via a 10-band EQ and saved profiles. Many reviews recommend using EQ to broaden the headset beyond its FPS-oriented default sound.
Fit and seal are generally strong, with reviewers saying the headset conforms to head shape, fits securely, and keeps ears inside the pads.
Footstep cue handling is strong, with reviewers hearing footsteps, cue direction, and competitive audio details clearly in shooter-style scenarios.
Frequency response and accuracy are supported by reviewers describing controlled audio and the stated 20-40,000 Hz range, with an emphasis on detail rather than boom.
Frequency response accuracy is a recurring critique: several reviews describe a non-neutral, gaming-first curve with missing ear-gain style presence and other deviations. This is a major reason music listening is often rated only okay without EQ.
Game/chat balance is useful but imperfect; some reviewers praised the gameplay/chat balance, while others wanted a dedicated physical dial or described app-based saving.
Game-chat balance controls are appreciated on compatible platforms for quick in-match tuning. However, there are reports of limited functionality or weaker integration on certain consoles, reducing its usefulness outside PC play.
Headband adjustment is functional and generally positive, using sliders or telescoping arms; reviewers noted tension, adjustability, and a comfortable strap.
Headband adjustability is generally innovative and secure, using a suspension-style system. Some reviewers love the quick locking adjustment, while others find fine-tuning while wearing the headset a bit fiddly.
Hinge durability is typically considered solid for a lightweight design, with spring-like mechanisms and enough flex to handle normal handling. A few notes suggest the adjustment mechanism can be finicky rather than fragile.
Included accessories are solid, with reviewers listing the base station, wireless adapter or dongle, USB-C cable, and mod plates.
Included accessories are generally strong, commonly including the low-latency dongle, detachable mic, charging cable, and an analog cable. Several reviewers appreciate the long analog cable and the storage pouch layout.
The included stand/base station is widely praised for weight, stability, storage, charging convenience, and RGB presentation, though one reviewer found it limited as mostly a charging station.
Instrument and sound separation are strong enough for reviewers to identify separate frequency layers, calibers, and busy game audio without losing details.
Instrument separation and imaging are frequently highlighted as strengths for positional awareness, helping footsteps and directional cues stand out. A few reviewers still say top competitive headsets can render footsteps even more distinctly.
The integrated boom microphone is present and flexible or sturdy across reviews, with flip-to-mute and right-side placement frequently noted.
Maximum-volume clarity is generally viewed as solid, with reviewers noting low harshness and reduced fatigue even when playing loud, high-intensity FPS content. Some treble roughness can appear depending on preset, but it is not widely described as piercing.
The microphone is broadly good, with clear voice capture, fuller sound than cheaper mics, and positive comments about boom quality, though some settings need adjustment.
Microphone noise reduction is mixed: the boom has directional isolation and side-noise rejection, but reviewers also noted no electronic or AI noise cancelling.
Microphone noise reduction is often praised for isolating voice and suppressing background noise, including fans and nearby activity. A few real-world tests in loud, crowded spaces suggest performance can vary and may not remove all ambient chatter.
Call and team-chat mic quality is rated well where reviewed, with clear voice capture and teammate communication highlighted as effective.
Microphone quality is widely viewed as good to excellent for in-game chat, Discord, and even work calls, with a noticeable jump over the original H9. A minority describe it as only serviceable in very noisy environments or slightly muffled compared with the very best mics.
Midrange performance is clear enough to highlight in-game cues and vocals, though one reviewer found the mids prominent and warm out of the box.
Midrange presence can feel recessed or muted in default tuning, especially for music and lead instruments. Reviewers who used the custom EQ report it can restore clarity and presence.
Multi-platform support is broad, covering PC, console variants, mobile, Switch-related use, Bluetooth, and optional dongles, while PS5/Xbox choice remains a limitation.
Multi-platform compatibility is strong for PC and PlayStation, with support also discussed for Nintendo Switch when docked and typical Bluetooth devices. The notable exception is Xbox compatibility.
Multipoint behavior is useful for calls but limited; reviewers noted simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz support while also saying music/game mixing is incomplete.
Multipoint is repeatedly called out as not supported, which is a downside for users who want seamless multi-device switching. The headset instead leans on dual-connection workflows with the dongle and Bluetooth.
Passive isolation is a clear strength for some reviewers, helped by the pads and seal; it blocks sound passively but is not a substitute for ANC.
Passive isolation is mixed: the pads and seal help, but the light clamp and airy fit mean it is not the most cocooning on its own. Many reviewers frame ANC as the key to strong isolation on this model.
Packaging quality was lightly criticized in one review for using paper support rather than laser-cut foam.
Portability is limited: reviewers noted it is not a great travel headset, though it can fold and is not hard to carry.
Portability is decent but not compact: the cups lay flat and rotate well, but the headset does not fold down like some travel headphones. It is easy enough to pack in a bag, just not optimized for small cases.
Positional audio is a clear strength, with reviewers describing placed gunfire, opponent location, directionality, and improved awareness.
Preset EQ profiles are a useful part of the software, with reviewers calling out well-done presets and listed profiles such as FPS, clarity, voice boost, and bass boost.
Preset EQ profiles are frequently criticized as too FPS-centric and limited in variety, even if some presets help highlight footsteps. Several reviews wish for better presets for music, RPGs, or cinematic games.
Replaceable earpads are a clear plus, with magnetic cushions and easy removal mentioned repeatedly.
Replaceable earpads are confirmed and appreciated by multiple reviewers, including reports of easy pad removal and replacement. A few sources still wish the overall serviceability were more standard across the whole headset.
Replaceable ear plates are a major customization feature; reviewers described swappable Mod-Plates, magnetic covers, 3D printing, and personalization.
RGB lighting is useful for presentation and customization, but opinions are mixed because one reviewer found the base-station RGB controls annoying.
Sidetone and monitoring are adjustable but mixed; reviewers noted mic monitoring and profile control, while one found mid/high monitoring levels too heavy.
Sidetone control exists but is not perfectly tuned out of the box, with reports of a low default level and a robotic quality when pushed too high. Many users will want to adjust it to a comfortable middle setting.
Smudge resistance is a consistent nitpick on certain finishes, with multiple mentions of surfaces showing fingerprints or marks easily. Buyers who care about keeping gear pristine may need to wipe it down often.
Setup and software simplicity are strong, with reviewers praising fast setup and well-chosen app settings.
Setup is often described as fast and straightforward, especially via the dongle. The software experience is more mixed, with some calling it basic, confusingly organized, or requiring extra steps for spatial personalization.
Sound quality is the main strength: reviewers described crisp clarity, strong detail, excellent gameplay audio, and in several cases standout or favorite-headset performance.
Overall sound quality is praised for competitive play with clear cues and satisfying impact, but default tuning is often viewed as FPS-focused rather than all-purpose. For music and non-FPS games, several reviewers recommend EQ tweaks to avoid a dark or uneven presentation.
Soundstage and spread are described positively, with reviewers hearing overhead effects, directional movement, and a clear stereo spread in gameplay.
Soundstage width is generally regarded as good, creating convincing left-right placement in games. Some reviews note vertical positioning is less precise than horizontal placement.
Spatial audio is a standout, with Dolby Atmos or Tempest 3D Audio support repeatedly tied to better directionality, detail, and immersive gameplay.
Spatial features include virtual surround and Sony 360-style personalization options, plus PS5 3D audio support in some setups. Benefits are mixed: some enjoy wider immersion, while others find the ear-photo personalization process cumbersome or not worth the effort.
Stability is supported both wirelessly and physically, with stable long-session connection and secure magnetic parts or fit mentioned.
Fit stability impressions vary: some reviewers find it secure and stable thanks to the new headband and low weight, while others report the earcups can shift slightly because of the gentle clamp. Overall stability is good, just not vice-like.
The headset offers an ambient or awareness mode, but multiple reviews say it is not a true, voice-forward transparency mode. It can let in general room sound, yet holding real conversations is often easier by removing the headset.
Treble and high-frequency clarity were supported by comments about clarity across the sonic range and highs being present alongside bass and mids.
Treble is commonly described as safe and fatigue-resistant for long FPS sessions, but can sound crunchy, dull, or lacking sparkle depending on the preset. EQ adjustments tend to improve perceived detail for broader listening.
USB-C is well represented through the headset port, connection cable, and dongle, with reviewers noting USB-C connection and wired update or audio possibilities.
USB-C is used for charging and the included low-latency dongle. Some reviewers call out limitations like the lack of USB audio in certain scenarios.
Value is strong overall: several reviewers described good value, premium features without premium pricing, or a headset that punches above its weight.
Volume output is mixed: one reviewer found console volume too low, while another described the app test output as very loud.
Volume output is typically sufficient and can get loud, though a couple of reviewers describe it as slightly quieter than expected compared with older models. Overall, most report enough headroom for gaming and media.
Weight comfort is acceptable rather than ultralight, with one reviewer calling it a good middle and another noting it is not incredibly lightweight.
Weight comfort is excellent, with multiple reviews emphasizing the very light feel around 260g and how little it disappears during play. This low weight is frequently framed as a major advantage over heavier rivals.
Wireless latency is rated highly in the evidence, with no noticeable latency, low-latency 2.4 GHz gameplay, and under-20 ms claims mentioned.
Xbox compatibility is strong for the HX version, with immediate Xbox recognition, Xbox-focused hardware, and Series X|S/One compatibility mentioned.
Multiple reviews explicitly state the dongle does not work with Xbox consoles, limiting native Xbox compatibility. Wired fallback may exist, but the main low-latency wireless path is not Xbox-ready.