Razer BlackShark V2 X Gaming Headset: 7.1 Surround Sound - 50mm Drivers - Memory Foam Cushion - For PC, PS4, PS5, Switch - 3.5mm Audio Jack - Black
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AI Verdict
This is a super lightweight wired headset for PC gamers on a budget who need clear mic quality and good positional audio for competitive games.
This headset is a strong fit for budget PC gamers because it nails the essentials: it's exceptionally lightweight at 240g for all-day comfort and its 7.1 software gives a real competitive advantage in positional audio. The mic is also surprisingly clear for team communication, which is a critical feature in this price bracket.
If you need a more durable build or a detachable mic for versatility, look for headsets that specify aluminum headbands and removable microphones.
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Pros
- Extremely lightweight at 240g, making it comfortable for long gaming sessions.
- Clear microphone quality for the price, often praised in user reviews for chat.
- Good passive noise cancellation from the closed-back earcups.
- Software-enabled 7.1 surround sound provides accurate positional audio for footsteps in games.
- Memory foam cushions are frequently reported as comfortable, even with glasses.
Cons
- The 7.1 surround sound is software-based and only available on Windows 10/11.
- The microphone is not detachable, which is inconvenient for non-gaming use.
- All-plastic build and thin wires for adjustment raise durability concerns.
- The included 3.5mm splitter cable can be faulty or loose, causing audio and mic issues.
- Sound quality is tuned for gaming, lacking the bass and richness desired for music.
Dimension Scores
The 50mm Triforce drivers give clear positional audio for gaming, though some find them lacking bass for music.
Volume is adequate but not especially loud, and the bass is often described as present but not powerful or boomy.
It uses a universal 3.5mm jack, but the cable is not detachable and the 7.1 surround sound is software-locked to Windows.
It's extremely light at 240g, but the all-plastic construction and non-detachable mic make it feel fragile and impractical for travel.
Best For
- Playing competitive FPS games like Valorant or CS:GO on a PC where hearing footsteps is key.
- Gamers who play for many hours and need a headset that won't cause fatigue or head strain.
- Budget-conscious buyers who need a reliable all-in-one audio and mic solution for PC gaming.
- Users who wear glasses and struggle with headsets causing pressure.
Not Recommended For
- Audiophiles who want a headset for high-fidelity music listening.
- Console players who want to use the 7.1 surround sound feature.
- Users looking for a durable headset to throw in a backpack for travel.
Watch Out For
- The 7.1 surround sound requires an activation code and software installation, and many users report issues getting it to work without troubleshooting.
- The volume knob on the left earcup is easy to bump, leading to accidental and sudden volume changes.
- The thin metal wire sliders that adjust the earcup height feel flimsy and can loosen over time on some units.
- The microphone boom arm can lose its ability to stay in a set position after several months of use.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 811659037572 |
| ASIN | B086PKMZ21 |
| Style | PC |
| Units | 1.0 Count |
| Material | Memory Foam, Titanium |
| Model Name | BlackShark V2 X |
| Item Weight | 0.01 ounces |
| Sensitivity | 100 dB |
| Control Type | Noise Control |
| Manufacturer | Razer |
| Release date | July 30, 2020 |
| Type of item | Electronics |
| Cable Feature | Retractable |
| Noise Control | Sound Isolation |
| Control Method | Remote |
| Earpiece Shape | Over-ear with oval cushions |
| Headphones Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Special Feature | Fast Charging, Microphone Included, Noise Cancellation |
| Audio Driver Size | 50 Millimeters |
| Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Item model number | RZ04-03240100-R3U1 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktops, Laptops, Mac, PlayStation 4, Switch |
| Frequency Response | 28 KHz |
| Hardware Interface | 3.5mm Audio |
| Product Dimensions | 7.6 x 6.76 x 3.86 inches; 0.01 ounces |
| Carrying Case Color | Black or gray |
| Included Components | Audio/mic splitter extension cable, Razer BlackShark V2 X, User Manual |
| Customer Package Type | Standard Packaging |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Specific Uses For Product | Gaming, Personal |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Gaming |
| Supports Bluetooth Technology | Yes |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00811659037572 |
What Buyers Say
The most surprising thing about the BlackShark V2 X is just how comfortable it is; people constantly mention they forget they're even wearing it because it's so light at 240g. For the price, the positional audio you get from the 7.1 software is a huge advantage in competitive games, making it easy to hear enemy movements. The microphone is also consistently praised as being exceptionally clear for a budget headset. The main trade-off is the build quality, which feels plasticky and has thin wire sliders that worry some owners about long-term durability.
“i bought this because it was cheap but holy crap i can actually hear where people are coming from in Valorant now and my head doesn't hurt after playing all night.”
Common Praise
- So lightweight at 240g that you can wear it for hours without any discomfort.
- The positional audio from the 7.1 surround sound is very accurate for gaming.
- Microphone provides impressive clarity for voice chat on Discord and in-game.
- Memory foam earcups are comfortable even for users with glasses.
- The passive noise isolation effectively blocks out background room noise.
Common Complaints
- The non-detachable mic gets in the way when you just want to listen to something without talking.
- The all-plastic construction feels cheap and potentially fragile.
- The 7.1 surround sound software can be difficult to set up and get working correctly.
- The non-braided cable feels flimsy and is prone to tangling.
- The included PC splitter cable can have a loose connection, causing audio to cut out.
Ownership Tips
- After a few months, the microphone arm can become loose and may not hold its position perfectly.
- The volume knob on the side of the earcup is very sensitive and you will absolutely bump it by accident.
- You have to register the product online with a code to download and activate the 7.1 surround sound software.
- The pleather on the earcups holds up well over time, but the foam can compress, slightly reducing the noise seal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 7.1 surround sound work on PS5, Xbox, or Switch?
No, the 7.1 surround sound feature is only available on Windows 10/11 PCs through Razer's software. On consoles, it functions as a standard stereo headset.
Is the microphone detachable?
No, the microphone on the BlackShark V2 X is permanently attached to the earcup.
Is this headset comfortable for people who wear glasses?
Yes, many users report that the memory foam ear cushions are very comfortable even with glasses, without applying too much pressure.
Do I have to use the Razer software?
You only need to install the 7.1 Surround Sound software if you want to use that specific feature. Otherwise, it works as a plug-and-play stereo headset via the 3.5mm jack.
How is the build quality?
The headset is made primarily of plastic to keep it lightweight. Some users express concerns about the long-term durability of the thin wire adjustment sliders and the non-braided cable.
Is the cable braided?
No, the cable on the BlackShark V2 X is a standard rubberized cable, not braided.
What is the main difference between the V2 X and the regular V2?
The V2 X is the budget model with a non-detachable mic and standard 50mm drivers. The V2 typically includes a USB sound card for THX Spatial Audio, a detachable mic, and upgraded Titanium drivers.
Buying Guide
When you're buying a budget gaming headset, you're paying for in-game audio performance and mic clarity, not music fidelity. The most important factor for long sessions is weight; a light headset like this one prevents neck strain. Always check that special features like '7.1 surround sound' are compatible with your system (PC vs console), as they often require specific software to work.
50mm Drivers
Think of these as the speakers inside the earcups. A 50mm size is large for a headset and allows for a full range of sound, but what really matters is how they are 'tuned'. These are tuned to emphasize the mid and high frequencies where sounds like footsteps and reloading occur.
7.1 Surround Sound (Software)
This isn't true surround sound. It's a software trick that manipulates stereo audio to make it sound like it's coming from all around you. For gaming, this creates a 3D soundscape that helps you pinpoint the direction of enemies.
Cardioid Mic
This type of mic is designed to pick up sound directly in front of it (your mouth) while rejecting noises from the sides and back. It's like putting blinders on the microphone so your teammates hear your voice, not your clacky keyboard or the TV in the background.
Alternatives
If this headset's build quality or non-detachable mic are dealbreakers, search for gaming headsets that specifically mention an 'aluminum frame' or 'steel headband' for durability and a 'detachable microphone' for better versatility.
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