Corsair HS35 v2 Wired Gaming Headset Review Best Multiplatform Comfort and Audio Quality

Description

Comfort Meets Versatility in a Gaming Headset

The Corsair HS35 v2 Multiplatform Wired Gaming Headset caught my attention because of its promise of universal compatibility and a comfortable design. I’ve used plenty of gaming headsets in the past, and let me tell you, not all live up to the hype. Testing this one was an adventure, and while there’s plenty to admire, there are also a few quirks worth mentioning.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the headset felt lightweight, which is a definite plus for marathon gaming sessions. The floating headband design is a feature I didn’t know I needed until I tried it. It sits lightly on your head, and the cushioned soft fabric ear pads make it feel like you’re wearing a cloud. I’ve had headsets that dig into your scalp or make your ears ache after a while, but this one? No such problems.

The 3.5mm jack connection adds to its versatility, and the build feels sturdy enough to survive minor drops (yes, I may have tested this unintentionally). That said, the headset doesn’t exactly scream premium – it’s functional and well-made but lacks a bit of that high-end flair.

Audio Performance

What really won me over were the custom-tuned 50mm audio drivers. These aren’t just some run-of-the-mill speakers slapped into a headset. The sound quality is surprisingly rich and well-balanced for this price range. From the subtle rustle of leaves in stealth games to the booming explosions in action-packed shooters, the frequency range of 20Hz to 20,000Hz ensures you won’t miss a beat.

The bass has a decent punch without overwhelming mids or highs, and the clarity is impressive for both gaming and casual music listening. The only downside? It’s not quite on par with some higher-end headsets when it comes to soundstage, but unless you’re an audiophile, you probably won’t notice.

Key Benefits

• Universal compatibility with PCs, Macs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.
• Comfortable, lightweight design with a floating headband and soft ear pads.
• Custom-tuned drivers that deliver a wide range of clear, immersive sound.
• On-ear volume and mute controls for quick adjustments mid-game.

Microphone Performance

The flexible omni-directional microphone is a standout feature. Whether I was barking orders at my squadmates or chatting with friends online, the mic delivered clear, crisp audio. It’s flexible enough to position just right, and the mute button on the ear cup is wonderfully intuitive. However, the mic does pick up a bit of background noise – not a dealbreaker, but something to note if you’re gaming in a noisy environment.

Shortcomings

While I found plenty to enjoy about this headset, a few limitations stood out:

• The lack of wireless connectivity feels a bit outdated in today’s gaming world.
• Soundstage could be wider, especially for competitive FPS gamers.
• Active noise cancellation is absent, so you might hear some external sounds in a loud room.

Competing Products

I’ve tried similar headsets in the same category, like the HyperX Cloud Stinger and the Razer Kraken X. Compared to the HS35 v2, the HyperX Cloud Stinger edges out in comfort but doesn’t quite hit the same audio clarity. Meanwhile, the Razer Kraken X offers slightly better noise isolation but feels bulkier during extended use. The Corsair HS35 v2 strikes a solid balance, especially with its universal compatibility and on-ear controls.

True Value

For gamers on a budget, this headset provides excellent value for money. You’re getting a lot of features typically found in higher-priced models, like custom-tuned drivers and a comfortable fit, without breaking the bank. While it’s not perfect, the HS35 v2 offers a solid mix of performance and comfort that makes it worth considering for casual and serious gamers alike.

This headset is a practical choice for multiplatform gamers who want reliable audio, decent comfort, and a no-frills design that simply gets the job done.

Additional information