The headset market is saturated right now with so many options in both the wired and wireless category, it can be hard to know which one to go with. While I am more on the side of the wireless headset, thanks to the new-gen consoles. both controllers have an audio jack in the bottom perfect for a high end wired headset, along cames the Razer Kaira X. While it has been specifically designed for the Playstation 5, it does have a 3.5mm audio jack which allows for compatibility with the Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch.
I've spent a few weeks now with the headset across all three consoles and can safely say this is now my preferred headset to use. While I usually go for the SteelSeries Arctis 7, having to find the dongle, make sure it's charged enough and set it all up can be tedious when you want a sneaky game in the early hours of the morning or late night sessions. Having the Kaira X I can easily plug it straight in to the controller and I'm good to go.
The quality of the audio through the headphones is spectacular and far above what any wired headset I have tried previously. The headset uses Razer's tri-force 50mm drivers to deliver the audio along with a HyperClear Cardioid microphone to deliver that crystal clear audio chat required for online play. I played online with Rainbow Six Extraction and found the audio quality through the microphone to be crystal clear. The mix between the game audio and mic feed was perfect with no lag or static coming through. When I moved over to play some Pokemon Sword on the Switch, the dip in quality was noticeable. It came across a little tinny and the depth and clarity on the PS5 stood out.
When it comes to comfort, the headset is primarily made out of plastic which creates a lightweight build and supported by two very thick cushions which make it optimal for long gaming sessions. I used this for long play sessions and it never felt heavy or like it was digging into my head. Located on the right ear is the power button, a button to toggle the microphone on and off as well as the volume controlled by a roller. The audio cable is 1.3 metres long which allows for a wide range of movement which makes moving around easy. The microphone arm is where my gripes come in. You are unable to move it away from your mouth or flip it out. There is a button to mute it however for ease of access it would have been better to have this option.
If you were hoping for 3D audio, regrettably this isn't something that is included with this headset. That aside, the quality in these headphones is enough to warrant the price and justify the purchase. While my wireless headphones are still a great option, the Kaira X's are just so convenient and save a lot of time and hassle to get stuck straight into the game. If you are on the hunt for a headset and are trying to be budget-conscious, then this is definitely the right headset for you.
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