You will agree with me that 7.1 channel surround headphones is every gamer’s dream. But most of the models in this range are quite expensive.
The likes of SteelSeries Arctis 5, Corsair HS50 and HyperX Cloud Alpha are well over $50. But Razer’s new headphones are under $50 so if you’re on the hunt for affordable gaming headphones, these are the best bang for the buck. It’s not a surprise Kraken X is among the Slickdeals E3 2019 Best Value for Gamers.
Razer
The first thing you notice about Kraken X is the lightweight design. Unlike your typical wired gaming headset, this one is just 250g, which is 40% less than its wired competition in the 7.1 channel category. It is considerably lighter than Razer’s wireless ManO’War. The shell is crafted from high-grade Polycarbonate-ABS for durability.
Despite being a cheap gaming headphone, there is no compromise at all with Kraken X as it integrates a bendable microphone with an easy, quick mute button. This is not everyone’s favorite, and personally, I’d prefer a retractable/detachable mic instead. Inline controls would also make Kraken X better than the awkwardly positioned on-head controls. The cardioid mic ensures complete blocking of ambient noises for clear communication in team player games.
While it has not been designed for proper air circulation, or with cushions with wicking capabilities, it’s quite comfortable during those long gaming sessions. The headband is adjustable and provides excellent flexibility while the leatherette ear cushions offer a plush feel and help to absorb the pressure.
You’d expect premium comfort features like cooling gel infused cushions for gamers who sweat a lot, but that would be too much to ask for from a $50 gaming headphones.
Besides gaming, the lightweight design also makes it a great deal for music on the go. The eyewear channels significantly reduce temple pressure. Kraken X is available in black or black with blue accents.
Regarding performance, Kraken X supports 7.1 Surround Sound on 64 bit Windows 10, so it favors PC gamers than their console counterparts. With the purchase of Kraken X, the company issues you a license to their exclusive software. With 7.1 Surround, you can pick up discrete sounds that your traditional headphones can’t pick up.
You can still rely on it as a PS4, Nintendo, or Xbox gaming headphones courtesy of the 3.5mm jack but you don’t get 7.1 surround. Under the hood, Razer has combined custom-tuned 40 mm drivers and Neodymium magnets which deliver premium sound. The full ear coverage improves noise cancellation and boosts resonance.
For its price, it offers an excellent immersive audio experience when playing audio intensive games like Call of Duty. You hear every advancing enemy footsteps and feel the loud bangs like you are in the real-life scene.
Save for the plastic-built microphone and cable, and average performance on PS4, Kraken X is still a great asset for budget shoppers. You don’t get such performance from a cheap 7.1 Surround headphones. And it’s not from your typical cheap brands; Razer is an industry-leader in gaming hardware.
