Razer has become synonymous with gaming headsets. They regularly push out some of the best sounding cups you pop on your head - sporting their premium-sounding Titanium drivers, and high-quality microphones. The brand isn’t shy from releasing headsets to meet everyone’s needs - from the more budget-conscious to those who can splash out on the most premium pair with all the latest bells and whistles.
Razer headsets can be among some of the best gaming headsets out there, but after my years of testing their tech, the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is a clear stand-out (the newer 2023 release rather than the original model). Not only is it one of the most comfortable headsets I’ve used, but its HyperClear mic is one of the best mics you can find on any headset to date. Not to mention, its 50mm TriForce Titanium drivers make every game sound their absolute best, but it is more than some may want to spend on a headset.
Luckily, Razer regularly releases more budget-friendly alternatives, so you don’t have to splash out to still get a taste of quality. Take the Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed - it packs the same high-quality mic but manages to keep prices low, and has been tested and put through its paces like every headset on this list. No matter if you want the best of the best, or want to shave off some features to stick to a budget, I’ve lived and breathed Razer headsets, and you can see the results of that below.
The quick list
With a luxury build quality, excellent audio and a supreme microphone, the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is the best Razer headset overall right now.
The Hyperspeed version drops some of the more luxurious qualities of the Pro, but still manages to pack the same audio punch for far less cash.
The Kraken X has been a budget headset winner since it was first launched, and that still rings true today. You're not paying much for a lightweight, bass-first device with a great mic.
Our top Xbox pick is the Microsoft version of the Kaira Pro. This was released just after the console but still impresses today.
Between excellent Hypersense haptics, that PlayStation aesthetic, and great sound, the Kaira Pro is our favorite Razer headset for PS5.
With a simple plug and play system but also plenty of connectivity options, the Barracuda X is excellent value for Switch.
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With a premium feel, low-latency connection and excellent audio for gaming and music, these are some impressive buds.
The Razer Barracuda X Chroma's RGB lighting is not only subtle and vivid, but its six zones of customization make it one of the best inclusions of lighting effects on a Razer headset to date.
Read more below.
Gaming headsets have been glued to my head even longer than I've been reviewing them and a large portion of them have been from Razer's vast back catalog of peripherals. Each time Razer tries something new, I'm always intrigued to try it out as soon as possible, whether if it's wired or wireless. I come from a music background originally having worked with studio-grade audio equipment, so ensuring one of the leading gaming peripheral brands is releasing headsets with great audio quality, optimum comfort, and design and a great mic is something I take pretty seriously - and so I'm here to present my findings onto you so you only pick up the best pair of Razer cups.
Recent updates
March 6 - As it stands, there haven't been any new Razer headsets that have crossed my testing bench. The Turtle Beach Stealth700 Gen 3 and the OXS Storm G2 wireless gaming headset are the most recent devices I've tested, and reviewed, and so the list of the best Razer headsets has remained the same. That being said, I still updated the guide to replace the star rating system with numbers to make it more readable and included a 'how we test' section at the bottom so you know our process of finding the best Razer headsets.
The best Razer headset overall
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The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro had a hefty refresh in 2023, and is now the best Razer headset on the market. While the version we tested is locked to PS5 and PC use, the standout microphone, long-lasting battery life, and excellent comfort makes this a must-see for anyone playing competitively.
✅ You play with chat: The microphone on offer here is class leading - if you're regularly on comms this mic is enough to carry the BlackShark V2 Pro by itself.
✅ You play on PS5 or PC: This is primarily designed for PC and PS5, so if you're setup complies you're all sorted. Xbox players will get audio out of here, but it's not the most compatible.
✅ You're a competitive player: That microphone, as well as the directional audio on offer, makes the BlackShark V2 Pro particularly impressive in a competitive arena. It's also got the battery life to see it through longer sessions and super low latencies.
❌ You also want a set of everyday headphones: If you want your headset to double up as a commuting companion, we'd recommend picking up something with active noise cancellation.
❌ You don't mind dropping your build quality: The BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed is a cheaper alternative that launched onto the shelves at the end of 2023. You're getting the same audio drivers and that super crisp mic but for far less cash by sacrificing that luxury feel.
Design: The classic BlackShark aesthetic is maintained here, with a matte black finish to the helicopter pilot style form factor. Still, with memory foam cushions and a lighter weight, this is a particularly comfortable headset. We did notice the steel headband slipping slightly when first put on, but it stayed nicely in place during actual gameplay.
Features: We'll kick off with the biggest feature here - that microphone. Razer has doubled the sampler rate from 16kHz to 32 in this year's refresh, which means a rich, velvety voice quality and super clear comms. Our teammates were incredibly impressed by the results, commenting that the mic itself was podcast worthy and it sounded like we were actually in the room with them. That's high praise, and solidified by our own listening to recordings - making this the best mic we've tested on a gaming headset yet.
You'll be doing all that for up to 70 hours at a time as well, thanks to that boosted battery life. Perhaps our favorite element of this audio, though, is that Synapse EQ settings can be stored on the headset's onboard memory. That means you can keep your presets for PS5 as well as PC - a true rarity.
Audio: The BlackShark V2 Pro also excels when it comes to audio quality. These cups deftly handle everything from more competitive shooters (and all the directional audio they require) to older atmospheric single player experiences. This is a luxury audio quality, with punchy gunfire, a wide soundstage for spookier echoes and creaks, and plenty of attention paid to locating enemies.
Verdict: The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is an all-in-one powerhouse. It's compatible with Xbox as well as PC and PlayStation, but the latter players are going to get the most out of this device. Between a stunning microphone and fantastic audio quality this is as good as Razer headsets get right now.
Read more: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro review
Comfort | 4/5 |
Audio | 5/5 |
Battery | 4/5 |
Microphone | 5/5 |
Versatility | 3/5 |
Build quality | 5/5 |
The best Razer headset for most players
The Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed is the most recent in the BlackShark line, and it essentially takes everything great about the Pro model above but drops a few build quality features to save players cash. You're getting the same audio and mic experience here, for a $129.99 MSRP we rarely see on Razer headsets of this quality.
✅ High-end audio is a must: If you're after audio quality that doesn't sink the bank account, this is where you need to be looking. We don't usually see these Razer drivers in headsets this cheap.
✅ You regularly play online with chat: The microphone in here is the same as the V2 Pro above, which makes it super crisp and incredibly clear. That makes it a must-see for anyone who plays with chat.
✅ You mostly use PC: The Hyperspeed model feels most at home on PC, because of that USB-A connection. You'll still be able to play across PlayStation as well, though.
❌ Build quality is a priority: If you're all about the feel of your headset, it might be worth jumping up the price scale a little for the Pro model above. The Hyperspeed sacrifices its materials to hit a lower price point.
❌ You need to travel with your headset: The Hyperspeed model doesn't have a particularly portable form factor, so if you're travelling regularly with your headset we'd recommend something with swivel cups.
Design: At first sight, this could easily be the Pro model as well. The Hyperspeed carries the same silhouette as the more expensive device, with the helicopter style design, oval cups, and steel adjustment sliders. However, where the Pro version offers quality breathable mesh cup materials, the Hyperspeed opts for leatherette. Not only is that a little less packed in its lining, but temperatures can climb for a less comfortable experience and leatherette itself is known for flaking with time. This is still a comfortable Razer headset - we were able to play for hours at a time with no pinching or headband fatigue. However, the plastics are considerably cheaper than the Pro version, with a hollow feel and some splitting around the cup itself.
Features: For the cash, though the Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed packs some surprising features. You're getting both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth wireless capabilities but also the option to wire directly into your PC if you run out of battery. That's impressive considering a wired connection isn't available even on the Pro model.
Audio: Razer has tricked out the Hyperspeed model with the same TriForce Titanium 50mm drivers as its more expensive release, and the same turbo charged microphone as well. That means soundscapes are crisp and detailed with well defined balances across the entire range and some impressive power in mids and low ranges.
Verdict: With an astounding audio and mic quality for the price, and plenty of extra quality of life features, all at just $129.99 the Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed is the best Razer headset for most players. Yes, this is limited to PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and PC players, but that's still a solid list of platform options.
Read more: Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed review
Comfort | 4/5 |
Audio | 5/5 |
Battery | 4/5 |
Microphone | 5/5 |
Versatility | 4/5 |
Build quality | 3/5 |
The best budget Razer headset
The Razer Kraken X is the second-cheapest Razer headset on the market right now, but with the Lite model dropping key features it's the best option for those on a strict budget right now.
✅ You want a simple device: The wired connection on offer here means the Razer Kraken isn't vulnerable to low latencies or connection drops. You also won't have to worry about keeping that battery topped up either.
✅ You don't want to be tied to one platform: The simple connection also means the Kraken is an excellent option for anyone playing across PS5 and Xbox Series X. A wireless headset capable of running on both devices is significantly more expensive, whereas one cable does the job affordably here.
✅ You have a tight budget: The Razer Kraken can be found particularly cheap these days - far away from any kind of three figure budget.
❌ High-quality audio is a priority: The Kraken isn't going to out-perform more expensive Razer headsets in the audio department. If you're happy to spend a little more to pick up a more sophisticated driver system, it's well worth the jump.
❌ You want to create your own EQ presets: If you're looking to make the most of Synapse and various preset customization options, we'd recommend picking up a newer Razer headset.
Design: The Razer Kraken X doesn't rip up the rulebook of its more expensive contemporaries, offering the same chunky Kraken aesthetic we've come to know and love. You won't find any RGB lighting adding to that final price tag here, but there are a range of different color options on the shelves so you can still customize your style a little. Still, the leatherette earcups impressed during our testing, even if the rest of the device is pretty limited to a cheaper, but still durable, plastic. Plus, it only weighs in at 250g.
Features: The Kraken X does everything it needs to in order to provide solid audio and access to your game chat, but does away with some of the more premium features to achieve that super low price tag. You're still getting a mic, but it's permanently attached to the side, which might get annoying if you only play single player adventures. However, you're still getting 7.1 surround sound on PC - a rarity considering this is a headset we regularly see on sale for less that $30 / £30. While that doesn't extend to consoles, it's still a pretty solid implementation for the price. You'll also find onboard volume control on the cup, a jump over the even cheaper Lite model but one that's probably necessary for most players.
Audio: You're not getting Razer's best drivers in here, but the Razer Kraken X can still put on a show. We noticed particularly clean balances between nicely textured high-ranges and rumbled basslines. There is some inbuilt positional audio, but it's a pretty heavy-handed, basic approach.
Verdict: The Razer Kraken X is pretty much as cheap as Razer headsets go, with only the Kraken X Lite taking us further down the price scale. We'd avoid going that far, though, (there's usually only a couple bucks in it) and dropping onboard volume controls can be a real pain.
Read more: Razer Kraken X review
Comfort | 3/5 |
Audio | 2/5 |
Battery | N/A |
Microphone | 2/5 |
Versatility | 4/5 |
Build quality | 2/5 |
The best Razer headset for Xbox
The Razer Kaira Pro for Xbox came out well before its PlayStation equivalent, so it hit that original console launch window a lot better. However, it still holds out today as the best Razer headset for Xbox Series X / S or even Xbox One players. Many of Razer's gaming headsets have targeted the Microsoft console directly, but this is the latest and greatest.
✅ You want extra EQ options: Razer's Xbox software means you can tweak settings and keep those presets in check direct from your console with this particular headset.
✅ You play for longer periods of time: The Razer Kaira Pro is a particularly comfortable Razer headset, with those Flowknit memory foam cushions and a cooling finish.
✅ Surround sound is a priority: The surround sound on offer here is noticeably improved compared to previous Razer headsets.
❌ You hate charging too often: Compared to the rest of the competition, the Razer Kaira Pro's 15 hour battery life is a little low.
❌ You also need headphones for travel: If you want to take your gaming headset on the road, we'd recommend opting for something with active noise cancellation instead.
Design: That Xbox black and green colorway immediately pit the Razer Kaira Pro in Microsoft's territory, but the matte black plastic and subtle green accents steer it away from a garish accessory. In the hand, we noted the premium feel of the materials used - especially the Flowknit memory foam cushioning.
Features: We noted how flexibility between console and mobile gaming sits at the fore here. As an Xbox Series X headset, the Razer Kaira Pro has to satisfy both markets after all. That means the portable form factor, Bluetooth 5.0 connection options, and built-in microphone make this the perfect go-between for all your Game Pass needs. An onboard dial also handles chat mix balancing for you as well. Of course an additional detachable mic is also included for those hardcore console sessions.
While it may not be obvious to anyone who hasn't used a Razer headset before, the Kaira Pro is also compatible with free Razer software direct on the Xbox itself. Here you can tweak your EQ settings and make use of preset profiles for certain genres.
Audio: The actual audio is rich and well-rounded, with those 50mm drivers balancing lows, mids, and highs particularly well. Not only that, but the surround sound is also notably improved over previous direct-for-Xbox headsets. We were able to pinpoint attacks flying past us in Outriders and enjoyed the swirling winds of Destiny 2 in 3D. We did notice some odd crackles every so often during our testing, which may cause some concern for the longevity of that audio, though.
Verdict: The Razer Kaira Pro caters for Xbox Series X players particularly well. A no nonsense wireless connection pairs with excellent audio and plenty of onboard features, this is a fantastic companion for your Game Pass adventures.
Read more: Razer Kaira Pro for Xbox review
Comfort | 4/5 |
Audio | 4/5 |
Battery | 1/5 |
Microphone | 2/5 |
Versatility | 4/5 |
Build quality | 4/5 |
The best Razer headset for PS5
If you're looking for the best Razer headset for PS5 to pair with your new-gen console, then the Razer Kaira Pro for PlayStation is the easiest recommendation to make.
✅ You like immersive single-player games: The Hypersense haptics work in tandem with the DualSense's own rumble to provide a uniquely powerful sense of immersion here.
✅ You need a wireless connection: There are cheaper Razer headsets available with a wired connection, but if you don't want to juggle a cable around your controller this is your go-to.
✅ You have an older PS4 setup: If you haven't upgraded to PS5 yet, the good news is that the Razer Kaira Pro will still work the same on PS4. That's an excellent way to breathe new life into your old console.
❌ You regularly play online: The Kaira Pros can't distinguish between sound effects and chat in their haptic treatment. That means you'll generally be playing with feedback off when online - and there's no point in paying for a feature you won't use most of the time.
❌ You can drop the haptic features: Of course, if you're not fussed about haptic feedback at all, it's worth saving some cash. The Razer Kaira is available with a wireless connection for far less.
Design: The headset shares a lot with the Kaira range generally that we saw rolled out for Xbox prior to the PlayStation range, and, as a result, looks similar, while maintaining a white and black colourway to match the console. On top of that there's a solid build quality here, with a metal ratchet to each side of the headband sliders. Our only gripe with the design was in the swing of the cups - they're a little looser than we've previously tested, and can swing pretty easily when picked up.
Features: One of the biggest selling points to us, however, is the inclusion of Razer's newest haptic feedback tech. The inclusion of this blew us away in our testing and makes this Razer headset stand out as a set that will add and enhance immersion.
The haptics only requires the existence of audio frequency to work which is impressive, but we found the one drawback with this to be that your teammates and friends speaking to you will also set them off which is a little annoying - perhaps the next generation of haptics will be able to tell between in-game audio to enhance and chat audio to ignore. But when the haptics in the Kaira Pro teamed up with a DualSense, our gaming experience was taken to a different place and made for a truly exciting ride.
Audio: Of course, you can turn off the feature, in which case you'll 'just' be treated to the Kaira Pro's excellent audio quality that really does a brilliant job from the deepest of booms to the highest-pitch notes. We found that the mic could be better despite extensive testing with my friends saying I was a bit tinny and thin sounding, but this isn't too much of a detractor on what is an exceptional PS5 wireless headset.
Verdict: The Razer Kaira Pro is your PS5's best friend, there's no other Razer headset we'd rather have on the noggin. That's not just because of the slick Sony-inspired design. The haptic feedback running alongside the DualSense's own features is incredibly immersive and the audio itself is standout to boot.
Read more: Razer Kaira Pro for PlayStation review
Comfort | 4/5 |
Audio | 4/5 |
Battery | 2/5 |
Microphone | 2/5 |
Versatility | 3/5 |
Build quality | 3/5 |
The best Razer headset for Nintendo Switch
The Razer Barracuda X is not just the best Razer headset for the Switch, but it's the best Nintendo Switch headset for most people overall as well. That's because of its simple plug and play design, and no-fuss audio quality. If you're after a portable set of cups that won't break the bank, this is certainly where you need to be looking.
✅You travel regularly with your Switch: The ability to connect via either a USB-C 2.4GHz dongle or Bluetooth makes this a particularly versatile headset for play on the go.
✅ You also want a set of everyday headphones: With a long battery life, and a swivel design accompanying that subtle aesthetic, this is a fantastic commuter's companion.
✅ You don't need to fiddle with EQ: If you don't need additional audio customization options there's no point in paying for them. The Barracuda Xs do away with these extra features to provide a solid wireless connection and great audio for less.
❌ You want more software support. If you want to create your own audio profiles and tinker with those settings you'll want to grab a Razer headset with a more in-depth customization system.
❌ You'll be relying on that wired connection: The Barracuda X can run off a wired connection, but it's not powered which means audio quality does suffer.
Design: There are two Razer Barracuda X models floating around on the shelves right now and they look identical. Two oblong shaped cups extend from a plastic but still solid headband with a soft, plush material covering over each cushion. This is a subtle design, one to fit in across commutes, work, and gameplay just as well. The comfort and streamlined aesthetic work together to create a no nonsense effect.
Features: Simplicity is the order of the day here. Simply slot the USB-C 2.4GHz receiver into the bottom of your handheld or slot it into the dock to use during big-screen play. This is a versatile headset that doesn't force EQ or RGB features into its price tag (though the former is still available via the Razer Audio app), it offers up excellent sound quality and a long battery life without any additional fuss.
That means you're not spending any extra cash on features you won't want or use, making more room for high-end audio at a lower mid-range price point.
Audio: The Barracuda X surprises in its audio prowess considering its price tag. There's an excellent audio quality here, with delicate balance between ranges and plenty of details available in the mids. Crunchier sounds of Doom Eternal will still felt with full power but they never overpowered the lighter tones in our testing, meanwhile the more subtle sounds of The Last of Us were still directionally audible.
Verdict: The Razer Barracuda X handles the intricate melodies of Nintendo's titles and the flexibility needs of its on-the-go design particularly well. While compatible across PlayStation and PC as well, the Barracuda X feels most at home slung in a backpack with your hybrid console.
Read more: Razer Barracuda X 2022 review
Comfort | 4/5 |
Audio | 4/5 |
Battery | 3/5 |
Microphone | 3/5 |
Versatility | 5/5 |
Build quality | 4/5 |
The best Razer earbuds
The Razer Hammerhead Hyperspeeds combine premium features like active noise cancellation, both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connections, and a relatively strong battery life compared to the rest of the gaming earbud market. That's all packaged in a fair $149.99 / £149.99 price tag - and considering these buds perform just as well for music as they do games, that's excellent value.
✅ You want fast audio: Both the 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connection options are super low latency here, which means your audio can keep up with your gameplay wherever you find yourself.
✅ Quality sound is a priority: The Hammerheads offer a super rich sound quality that's tough to find in other gaming earbuds.
✅ You need earbuds for a commute: Active noise cancellation, a long battery life, and Bluetooth connectivity means the Hammerheads can easily blend in as a set of commuting earbuds.
❌ You need reliable tap gestures: For everything the Hammerhead Hyperspeeds get right, they don't have particularly strong tap gestures. We've never been able to get these controls working reliably.
❌ You're not concerned about aesthetics: The light gray steps and RGB lighting adorning each bud makes these a particularly flashy set of buds. That extra pzazz isn't for everyone though.
Design: With a luxury look and feel, complete with matte grey PlayStation-style charging case, these are some pretty buds. The stems are a little longer than you'll find on other earbuds (and we found the tap gestures to be a little hit and miss), but overall the build quality is excellent here. A small RGB logo on the side of each piece keeps things decidedly Razer as well.
Features: The choice between 2.4GHz and Bluetooth means these are particularly versatile earbuds. Whether you choose the Xbox or the PlayStation version, you're covered for Nintendo Switch, iPhone, Android, and PC. Two low-latency connection modes ensure that you're always at your best.
You've even got a suite of EQ and tap gesture settings controls, available in the Razer Audio app. While this isn't as in-depth as the full-fat Razer Synapse software, it's a handy tool for setting up the right soundstage. It is worth noting, however, that we found the tap gestures to be particularly unreliable in practice.
Audio: If you'd prefer not to tinker there's good news as well. We found the audio quality to be particularly bold straight out of the box. Between rich dialogue and full-bodied soundtracks, there was plenty to love across everything from Pokemon on Switch to The Last of Us on PS5.
Verdict: The Razer Hammerhead Hyperspeeds manage to pack a serious punch despite their diminutive form factor. Between plenty of extra features and a fair price tag, they're the best Razer earbuds on the market right now.
Read more: Razer Hammerhead Hyperspeed review
Comfort | 4/5 |
Audio | 3/5 |
Battery | 3/5 |
Microphone | 2/5 |
Versatility | 4/5 |
Build quality | 3/5 |
Best RGB
✅ You love RGB lighting: If every bit of your setup needs to have RGB lighting, then the X Chroma headset is a worthwhile option. Not only are there multiple realms of personalization, but the RGB effect is subtle and won't be distracting during future gaming sessions.
✅ You like the audio quality of the Razer Baccaduda X (2022) model: The Razer Barracuda X Chroma headset uses the same 40mm Triforce drivers as the previous Barracuda X (2022) model. With that in mind, if their power impressed you before then you'll know exactly what sound you're in for this time around.
❌ You don't have access to a PC: Unlocking the full potential of the X Chroma's customizability requires the downloading of the Razer Synapse 4 software. So those without a PC might not get to experience the full benefits of this headset.
❌ You hate RGB lighting: Not everyone enjoys every part of their gaming setup to be swarming with rainbow lighting effects and that's okay. If you can't stand the inclusion of RGB lighting, the previous models in the Barracuda lineup will be more your thing.
Its predecessor, the Razer Barracuda X gaming headset may already be part of this list, but the Razer Barracuda X Chroma steps it up a notch by introducing RGB lighting and giving the Barracuda headset lineup a flashy makeover. RGB lighting on a headset isn't anything new, but their inclusion can have the tendency to look like a garish nightmare of cheap gaming proportions. Fortunately, Razer has not only made the inclusion of RGB a subtle one, but the customizable options at hand make it some of the best lighting we've come across on any gaming peripheral.
Design: The X Chroma design has mostly stayed true to its Razer Barracuda X (2022) counterpart. The headset features a closed-back form factor with a plastic matte finish and two oblong-shaped ear cups. This time around, however, Razer swapped out the engraved logo of the previous Barracuda cups with a flashy upgrade, along with a ring of RGB lighting on each ear cup.
Features: Rather than being one singular set of lighting, each ring is divided into individual zones which can be customized through the Razer Synapse 4 software. Within the 'studio' tab you can select on each zone and tailor it to a color of your choice. Additionally, there's also a plethora of preset lighting effects to select from, including a pulsating breathing effect. The subtle nature of the RGB lighting can make the effects not as noticeable as on other headsets, but it still adds another layer of personalization to the X Chroma.
It's not just the lighting that makes the Razer Barracuda X Chroma a high-quality pair of cups. The headset also comes decked out with Bluetooth and 2.4GHZ connectivity options, a crisp Razer Hyperclear Cardioid detachable microphone, and great audio quality thanks to the integrated 40mm Razer TriForce drivers. Most importantly, the headset is incredibly lightweight and comfortable after long periods of use and can be used with a magnitude of different platforms, from your PC, PS5, Xbox Series S, Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and more.
Audio: The audio quality of the Razer Barracuda X Chroma isn't as impressive as other headsets on this list, like the BlashShark V2 Pro. However, its Triforce drivers can still do games justice, from Marvel Rivals, CS:2 to Dead by Daylight. These are the same drivers as found in the Barracuda X (2022) model, so the same high-quality audio is on display this time around.
Verdict: The Razer Barracuda X Chroma brings back the high quality and level of standard the Razer Barracuda line is known for, but adds some flashy RGB lighting into the mix to make it stand out on its own. The subtle and still highly customizable lighting makes it one of the best inclusions of RGB lighting on a headset we've come across. However, its flashy makeover does make it a pricier pick for those who fancy themselves a pair of cups out of the Barracuda lineup.
Comfort | 4/5 |
Audio | 4/5 |
Battery | 5/5 |
Microphone | 3/5 |
Versatility | 5/5 |
Build quality | 4/5 |
How we test Razer headsets at 12DOVE
Just like the best gaming headsets, we test the best Razer headsets over a minimum two week period per device. During that time, the headset becomes part of our lives, and rarely leaves our head. Whether it's sitting down to work, playing the latest games, or catching up with TV shows, whatever Razer headset we're testing will be integrated into our lives. That way, not only do we see how it deals with a whole scope of media, but we can get to know the intricacies of each device particularly well, while also making sure their features, design, and overall performance are on par with the rest of the market in terms of value.
When we first take a look at a new Razer headset for the first time, the very first thing we clock is of course the design. That just doesn't mean how stylish a headset is (although that's also important) but examining it's overall build quality, too. That means noting the materials used across chassis, struts, cup cushioning and cover, and charging cables, as well as the actual joinery of everything together. We're listening and feeling for any rattle or creaking during everyday use (and slightly more pressured handling). Then we consider design from a comfort perspective, balancing the weight, padding, adjustment options, and clamp force over long sessions of around eight hours. Typically this will take place during a work day, wearing the headset for music for an extended period of time, but this testing will also often take place during longer gaming sessions as well.
We also take a look at the Razer headset's list of features, and asses that according to value for money and overall quality. That means comparing it to not just other Razer headsets, but headsets from other brands of a similar price range, and examining if it offers more, or less than the competition (wireless connection options, EQ settings, microphone placement, onboard controls, additional software customizations, charging features, and battery life makes up the bulk of this).
The main meat of our time testing, of course, comes with seeing how a Razer headset copes with games. One soundstage may be perfect for one player and lacking for another - audio itself can still be fairly subjective. That's why we test each headset across the same games, with each title offering a slightly different challenge for the drivers.
Marvel Rivals and CS2 are our competitive games of choice, used for testing directional accuracy, microphone clarity, and soundstage imaging, particularly in the lower mid-range. We use a wider open scene with a couple of nearby machines in Horizon Forbidden West to see how well each headset deals with a cluttered mid-range, and how well it balances these more clustered scenes. Marvel's Spider-Man Miles Morales is used to measure directional audio in a busier scene (the main mission Time To Rally). Doom Eternal tests a gaming headset's power in the lower range, as well as the depth of its soundstage. Dead by Daylight is used to measure a less busy, but more atmospheric, environmental soundstage and how it places voice-chat within the audio soundscape. We finally use each headset across a few levels of Super Mario Sunshine or Super Mario Galaxy to assess the handling of higher ranges as well. Some game choices can differ depending on any given reviewer's access, and it's always pertinent to test headsets during a whole range of games, including titles even outside our specified list. Ensuring we're using not just the same games across each headset we test, but also brand-new releases is pertinent to recommending each and every set of cups.
Once each headset makes it through the full testing process, it is assigned scores (out of 5) based on comfort, audio, battery, microphone, versatility, and build quality for each comparison across previous reviews. We're constantly comparing Razer headsets to their similarly priced competitors, within and outside the brand - often switching back and forth between the devices during testing.
For more information on how we test gaming headsets, check out the full 12DOVE Hardware Policy.
Best Razer headset: FAQ
What is the best Razer headset?
The best Razer headset is the BlackShark V2 Pro right now. It's an excellent all-in-one headset for a range of platforms, that doesn't break the top end of the price range. However, if you are looking to spend a little less we'd recommend checking out the Razer Kraken for a budget-friendly alternative.
Are Razer headsets worth it?
Razer headsets come with a pedigree and, yes, they are sometimes more expensive than their counterparts. However, there are plenty of budget-minded releases on the shelves right now, some of which offer the best value of the pack. Razer does offer excellent audio quality and a commendable plug and play approach that will see you through a wide variety of platforms and genres. While the top end of the price scale is more pressured by the competition offering different features at the same cost, or slightly less, the brand's entry level headsets can trade blows with their shelf-mates.
What is the latest Razer headset?
The latest Razer headset is the Razer Barracuda X Chroma released on October 24, 2004. Razer releases its headsets in a few ranges, though - BlackShark, Kraken, Barracuda, and Kaira. You'll find the latest in each of these lines below.
BlackShark - Razer BlackShark V2 Pro for PlayStation and Xbox (April 2024)
Kraken - Razer Kraken V4 Pro (November 2024)
Barracuda - Razer Barracuda X Chroma (October 2024)
Kaira - Razer Kaira X for PlayStation (September 2021)
Is Razer Barracuda or BlackShark better?
Razer has been investing in both its Barracuda and BlackShark lines in recent years, but the two ranges offer slightly different features. That means one will be better suited to your needs than the other.
Razer Barracuda headsets are designed to be more generalist. You'll find more devices with Bluetooth connections, the Pro model features active noise cancellation, and their designs are more subtle. These are gaming headsets made to follow you on your commute for music, streaming and more.
That's perfect if you're looking for high value for money. However, this approach means they drop a lot of the more specialist features present in BlackShark headsets.
These are devices designed to exist only as gaming headsets. That means you'll find better microphones, cheaper wired-only models, and more sophisticated EQ software. If you're looking for a gaming headset first and foremost, Razer BlackShark headsets are better suited.
If you're looking for rundowns of some other top brands' headsets, then check out our guides to Turtle Beach headsets, and Sennheiser gaming headsets. Check out our best gaming headset guide if you want to know the best of the best instead.
