One of the best accessories to complement a gaming setup is the headset. Having pitch-perfect audio can make or break an immersive or competitive experience while playing a game. Astro is one of the leading brands in the market, consistently delivering cutting-edge headsets and other peripherals. From high-end, premium wireless headsets to more affordable Bluetooth options, Astro is a brand I always recommend.
There’s a lot to consider when recommending a gaming headset. First and foremost, a gaming headset has to be comfortable to wear and deliver outstanding audio, relative to its price point. Then comes the quality-of-life perks the device can provide. The headset also has to fit your lifestyle and provide good battery life. Of course, the headset also has to be supported on your preferred platform. Taking all of these into consideration, I’ve put together a list of the best Astro headsets you can find to elevate your next gaming session, no matter the price point.
Astro’s A50 (Gen5) are the company’s flagship and most premium option from the catalogue. The headset supports uncompressed audio with low latency. With 40mm audio drivers, you’ll receive crystal clear audio with precise audio separation. The rich soundscape is perfect for immersive narrative games or a round of Call of Duty. The latest A50 model is downright one of the most comfortable gaming audio solutions I’ve had the pleasure of personally trying. The $419 headset features padded earpads, supports long play sessions, even if wearing glasses. With a broadcast-quality microphone, the A50 (Gen5) headset offers a 48 kHz full-bandwidth boom mic, capable of drowning out unwanted background noises. There’s also a rich battery life, offering up to 24 hours of playtime. Though, on average, I’ve gotten about 22 hours.
One of the best perks of the A50 (Gen5) is its new USB-C three-system switching technology. Its base charging system is compatible with Xbox Series consoles, PlayStation 5, PC, and Nintendo Switch. Connect to up to three platforms at once and use the on-ear controls to swap between the platforms. There’s also the G Hub software available on both PC and mobile, making Bluetooth connectivity possible. The A50 (Gen5) is simply one of the most robust and comfortable headsets I’ve used in quite a long time. Though it’s worth pointing out that the audio isolation via the padded earcups could be improved.
The Astro A50 X Lightspeed is another premium-priced audio solution from the company. At first blush, the Astro A50 X Lightspeed supports much of what the A50 (Gen5) does. You’ll find that it’s a lightweight model at only 363 grams, making it perfect for longer play sessions. Much like the flagship, this device comes with 40mm drivers for a rich audio landscape. Astro’s A50 X Lightspeed also offers up to 24 hours of battery life with the charging dock, capable of replenishing the battery between sessions.
Where the Astro A50 X Lightspeed differs from the flagship is indicated by the name. As the charging station still provides connectivity capabilities to Xbox Series, PlayStation 5, and PC, it’s done through HDMI 2.1 passthrough. Supporting 40 Gbps bandwidth, you’ll receive impeccably low latency audio via Auto Low Latency Mode with up to 24-bit audio on all platforms. For some, this may not be a must-have feature. However, for audiophiles or those who want the best experience, the Astro A50 X Lightspeed is one to consider.
If you’re on the market for something a little more affordable, without compromising too much on audio clarity, the Astro A30 are a solid option. With multi-device compatibility, Astro A30’s supports Xbox Series, PlayStation, PC, and Nintendo Switch platforms with custom audio mixing and Bluetooth support. Astro also includes a 3.5mm wired-in option if that’s what you’d prefer for consoles.
Astro A30 come with 2.4GHz support for a low-latency experience. There’s also a detachable microphone that slots into the body of the headset. It can be removed when not in use or when you want to be muted. While you may forgo some of the bells and whistles of the A50 series, the Astro A30 headset is a phenomenal option, thanks in part to its plush ear cushions and up to 27 hours of battery life.
Astro’s A20 (Gen2) is the first entry-level headset that’s worth recommending. It supports a flip-down microphone, perfect for voice part chats. It can discreetly be tucked up afterwards or when you wish to be muted. The A20 headset offers 2.4GHz wireless audio with a 15-meter wireless range. Included in the headset is a 1,50mAh battery providing an estimated 15 hours of battery life with a 3.5-hour recharge time.
Now, as an entry-level model, there are some concessions to be made. For instance, the microphone isn’t as dynamic or powerful as the A50 series or the A30. You also lose access to Bluetooth and multi-device support. However, the A20 (Gen2) can still provide some solid noise accuracy and bass. Though noise isolation isn’t the greatest.
Finally, the Astro A10 is as entry-level as you can get from a price point. You’ll find crystal-clear voice coms thanks to the 6mm unidirectional microphone, featuring a flip-to-mute function. There’s also a 3.5mm headphone jack to plug into the controller of your choice. Astro’s A10 (Gen2) come with 32mm Neodynamic drivers for immersive audio while playing games.
As you can imagine, with an integrated 3.5mm headphone jack and the price point, the Astro A10 (Gen2) doesn’t offer any wireless support. You’ll also get some tame custom audio settings to play with. That said, as an entry-level solution or one to gift to a younger player, this is still respectable for its price point.
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