Razer Kraken Gaming Headset Headphones Review
Lightweight Comfort with Powerful Sound
- Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Verdict
- Variants
- Comparisons
- Design
- Sound
- Microphone
- Features
- Conclusion
The Razer Kraken Gaming Headset is a versatile and robust option for gamers seeking immersive audio across multiple platforms. This latest iteration builds upon the popular Kraken series, featuring a lightweight yet durable aluminum frame and retractable noise-isolating microphone. Designed for extended gaming sessions, the headset boasts cooling gel-infused ear cushions to prevent overheating and pressure build-up. With its 50mm custom-tuned drivers, the Kraken delivers powerful audio with an emphasis on bass, which may appeal to fans of action-packed games. The headset offers broad compatibility, connecting via a 3.5mm audio jack to PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices. While it provides essential features like in-line volume control and a mic mute switch, some users might find the lack of more advanced on-board controls limiting.
Razer Kraken Gaming Headset: Verdict
Pros
- Comfortable for long gaming sessions
- Durable aluminum frame construction
- Good sound quality for gaming
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Retractable noise-isolating microphone
Cons
- Bass-heavy sound profile may not suit all users
- Limited on-board controls
- Microphone quality could be better
The Razer Kraken Gaming Headset offers a solid blend of comfort, durability, and performance that makes it a worthy contender in the competitive gaming audio market. Its lightweight aluminum frame and cooling gel-infused ear cushions provide exceptional comfort for extended gaming sessions, addressing a common pain point for many gamers.
Sound quality is tailored for gaming, with powerful 50mm drivers delivering immersive audio. The bass-heavy profile excels in action-packed games, though it may not appeal to audiophiles seeking a more balanced sound signature. The retractable noise-isolating microphone ensures clear communication, albeit with some room for improvement in overall voice quality.
Cross-platform compatibility is a significant strength, allowing seamless use across PC, consoles, and mobile devices. However, the limited on-board controls may frustrate users accustomed to more feature-rich headsets. The 3.5mm connection offers universal compatibility but lacks the advanced features of USB-connected alternatives.
While the Kraken doesn’t break new ground, it delivers on Razer’s reputation for quality gaming peripherals. It’s a reliable choice for gamers seeking a comfortable, durable headset with good sound quality, especially those who prioritize bass-heavy audio and cross-platform flexibility. However, users seeking more balanced audio or advanced features might want to explore other options in the market.
Check Price
| Color | Model Number | |
| Black/Blue | RZ04-02830500-R3U1 | |
| Classic Black | RZ04-02830100-R3U1 | |
| Green | RZ04-02830200-R3U1 | |
| Mercury White | RZ04-02830400-R3M1 | |
| Quartz Pink | RZ04-02830300-R3M1 |
Razer Kraken Gaming Headset: Differences Between Color Variants
Pros
- Multiple color options available
- Consistent performance across variants
- Unique aesthetic appeal for each color
Cons
- Limited edition colors may be harder to find
The Razer Kraken Gaming Headset offers a range of color options to suit different tastes and setups. Available in Black/Blue, Classic Black, Green, Mercury White, and Quartz Pink, each variant maintains the same high-quality build and performance. The color choices allow gamers to personalize their gear while enjoying consistent audio quality and comfort across all versions. However, some limited edition colors may be less readily available than the standard options.
Razer Kraken Gaming Headset: Compared To Other Gaming Headsets
Pros
- Competitive price point for features offered
- Comfortable for extended gaming sessions
- Cross-platform compatibility
Cons
- Bass-heavy sound may not suit all users
- Limited on-board controls compared to some competitors
The Razer Kraken Gaming Headset holds its own against competitors in the mid-range gaming audio market. Its lightweight aluminum frame and cooling gel-infused ear cushions offer comfort during long gaming sessions, a feature that stands out compared to some rivals. The 50mm drivers deliver powerful audio, particularly excelling in bass-heavy sound profiles, which may appeal to gamers who enjoy action-packed titles.
While the Kraken offers solid performance, it faces stiff competition from brands like HyperX and SteelSeries. The HyperX Cloud II, for instance, provides a more neutral sound signature that some users might prefer. The SteelSeries Arctis 5 offers customizable RGB lighting and a USB connection, features the Kraken lacks. However, the Kraken’s cross-platform compatibility via its 3.5mm jack gives it an edge in versatility, allowing seamless use across various gaming systems and mobile devices.
Razer Kraken Gaming Headset: Design and Comfort
Pros
- Lightweight aluminum frame enhances durability
- Cooling gel-infused ear cushions prevent overheating
- Retractable microphone for convenience
- Available in multiple color options
Cons
- Ear cups don't swivel, may affect fit
- Headband padding could be more plush
The Razer Kraken Gaming Headset boasts a sleek and functional design that caters to long gaming sessions. Its lightweight aluminum frame strikes a balance between durability and comfort, allowing users to wear the headset for extended periods without feeling weighed down. The retractable noise-isolating microphone is a standout feature, offering clear communication when needed and tucking away neatly when not in use.
Comfort is a key focus of the Kraken’s design, with oval-shaped, cooling gel-infused ear cushions that work to prevent overheating and pressure build-up. This innovative approach to ear cup design helps maintain comfort during intense gaming marathons. However, some users may find that the lack of swivel in the ear cups affects the overall fit, particularly for those with different head shapes.
Aesthetically, the Razer Kraken doesn’t disappoint, offering a range of color options including Black/Blue, Classic Black, Green, Mercury White, and Quartz Pink. This variety allows gamers to choose a style that matches their setup or personal preference. While the headband is designed to be flexible and durable, some users might prefer more plush padding for ultimate comfort.
Razer Kraken Gaming Headset: Sound Performance
Pros
- Powerful 50mm drivers deliver immersive audio
- Bass-heavy sound profile ideal for gaming
- Software-enabled 7.1 surround sound on Windows 10
- Clear audio for positional cues in games
Cons
- Bass can be overwhelming for some users
- Mids and highs may lack clarity
The Razer Kraken Gaming Headset boasts powerful 50mm drivers that deliver an immersive audio experience tailored for gaming. These custom-tuned drivers produce a sound signature that emphasizes bass, which can be particularly engaging for action-packed games and explosive sound effects. The headset’s audio profile is designed to enhance the gaming experience by providing clear positional cues, allowing players to accurately locate in-game sounds.
One of the standout features is the software-enabled 7.1 surround sound, available for Windows 10 64-bit users. This virtual surround sound capability adds depth to the audio landscape, potentially giving gamers a competitive edge in titles where directional audio is crucial. However, it’s worth noting that the bass-heavy tuning, while excellent for gaming, may not suit all users, especially those who prefer a more balanced sound for music listening or content creation.
The Kraken’s audio performance shines in gaming scenarios, with clear reproduction of footsteps, gunfire, and environmental effects. However, some users report that the emphasis on low frequencies can sometimes overshadow the mids and highs, potentially affecting the clarity of dialogue or subtler audio details. Despite this, the overall sound quality is generally well-received by gamers who appreciate the immersive, punchy audio profile that enhances their gaming sessions.
Razer Kraken Gaming Headset: Microphone Quality
Pros
- Retractable noise-isolating microphone
- Clear voice capture for gaming communication
- Cardioid pickup pattern reduces background noise
Cons
- Mic quality could be better for professional use
- Limited customization options for mic settings
The Razer Kraken Gaming Headset features a retractable noise-isolating microphone designed to enhance communication during gaming sessions. This cardioid microphone is engineered to capture the user’s voice clearly while reducing background and ambient noises, which is crucial for team-based gameplay. Users generally find that the microphone performs well for in-game chat, providing clear and understandable voice transmission to teammates.
While the microphone quality is suitable for gaming purposes, some users note that it may not meet the standards required for professional streaming or content creation. The mic tends to focus on vocal clarity rather than offering a full-bodied sound, which is ideal for quick communication but may lack the depth needed for high-quality audio recording. Additionally, the microphone’s performance in noise cancellation, while good, may not completely eliminate background sounds in particularly noisy environments.
The retractable design of the microphone adds to the headset’s versatility, allowing users to easily tuck it away when not in use or when listening to music. However, some users have reported that fine-tuning the microphone settings can be limited, with fewer customization options compared to more specialized gaming headsets. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Razer Kraken’s microphone is generally considered to be a solid performer for its intended gaming audience, striking a balance between functionality and convenience.
Razer Kraken Gaming Headset: Compatibility and Features
Pros
- Wide cross-platform compatibility
- Retractable noise-isolating microphone
- In-line audio controls for convenience
- 7.1 surround sound capability
Cons
- Software-enabled surround sound limited to Windows 10
- Lacks advanced customization options
The Razer Kraken Gaming Headset boasts impressive compatibility across multiple platforms, making it a versatile choice for gamers. It seamlessly connects to PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X & S, and mobile devices via its 3.5 mm audio jack. This wide-ranging compatibility ensures that users can enjoy a consistent audio experience across their gaming setups.
One of the standout features is the retractable noise-isolating microphone. This cardioid mic is designed to reduce background and ambient noises, delivering crystal-clear communication during intense gaming sessions. The retractable design adds to the headset’s versatility, allowing users to tuck it away when not in use.
The Kraken comes equipped with in-line audio controls, including an analog volume control wheel and a mic mute switch. These convenient features allow for quick adjustments without interrupting gameplay. Additionally, the headset offers 7.1 surround sound capabilities, although it’s worth noting that this feature is software-enabled and only available on Windows 10 64-bit systems.
While the Kraken excels in many areas, it does have some limitations. The lack of advanced customization options may disappoint users who prefer fine-tuning their audio experience. However, for most gamers, the out-of-the-box performance and features provide a satisfying and immersive audio experience across a wide range of gaming platforms.
Razer Kraken Gaming Headset: Conclusion
The Razer Kraken Gaming Headset offers a solid blend of comfort, durability, and performance that makes it a worthy contender in the competitive gaming audio market. Its lightweight aluminum frame and cooling gel-infused ear cushions provide exceptional comfort for extended gaming sessions, addressing a common pain point for many gamers. The powerful 50mm drivers deliver immersive audio with a bass-heavy profile that excels in action-packed games, though it may not appeal to audiophiles seeking a more balanced sound signature.
While the Kraken shines in gaming scenarios with its clear positional audio and cross-platform compatibility, it does have some limitations. The bass-heavy tuning can sometimes overshadow mids and highs, potentially affecting dialogue clarity. Additionally, the limited on-board controls and microphone quality may not satisfy users looking for more advanced features. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Razer Kraken remains a reliable choice for gamers seeking a comfortable, durable headset with good sound quality, especially those who prioritize bass-heavy audio and versatility across multiple gaming platforms.