The Razer Kraken X offers an immersive gaming experience with its 7.1 surround sound and shines with exceptional microphone recording quality. However, the sound output isn’t top-tier, and its control scheme is also limited.
The Razer Kraken X headphones were first launched in 2019 as entry-level headphones designed for gamers. The headphones don’t have noise canceling or app support, but they have a boom mic and ship with an ⅛ inch TRRS audio cable for plugging into an AUX port. They feature 40mm custom-tuned drivers, and their ear cups are generously padded. However, these headphones are wired.
Read our list of the best gaming headsets for some wireless alternatives. The Kraken X headphones have support for surround sound, and its control scheme includes a mute and unmute button for its mic and a volume wheel.
Consensus
our Verdict
The wired Razer Kraken X gaming headset has an imbalanced sound profile. While mids are clear and even, the bass response is boomy, and this cannot be adjusted since there’s no companion software. The headphones also boast a clear, functional microphone with excellent recording quality, and they can be connected easily to both PCs and consoles.
The build quality is also generally durable despite its lightweight design, and it is also comfortable courtesy of the thick padding on both ear cups. The included 7.1 surround sound software enhances the overall gaming experience.
Though not without minor flaws, the Razer Kraken X offers good value for those seeking an affordable gaming headset with few bells and whistles.
Reason to Buy
Decently comfortable
The Razer Kraken X gaming headset has thick ear cup padding, and weighing only 250g, their lightweight design doesn’t put as much strain on the wearer. This makes them ideal for marathon gaming sessions
Excellent microphone recording quality
The sound captured through the microphone is clear, detailed and natural sounding for hassle-free in-game chatting. This is also reflected in its 8.7/10 spot in our microphone sound quality rating, giving it a position in the top 20% of alternatives in this category.
7.1 Channel surround sound
Its support for 7.1 surround sound makes it ideal for situational awareness and object placement for more immersive gaming.
Imbalanced sound profile
The headphones have a boomy sound output, but the mids are clear and even. Unfortunately, this cannot be accurately fine-tuned because the headset doesn’t have companion software.
Limited control scheme
The Kraken X doesn’t have as many control options. It is similar to the Sennheiser Game One, which we’ve covered in our Sennheiser Game One review.
Reason to Avoid
Razer Kraken X Specs
Adjustable Headband
Yes
Auto-Adjusting Headband
Yes
Battery Life
Wired
Compatible Platforms
Mac, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X
Connector Size
3.5mm
Detachable Mic
No
Driver Size
40mm
Earcup Foam Material
Foam
Headphone Fit
Over-ear
Max Frequency Response
28,000Hz
Min Frequency Response
12Hz
Noise Canceling
Yes
Product Weight
0.55 lbs
Programmable Buttons
No
Wireless
No
Wireless Connectivity
n/a
All Specs
Test Results
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The Razer Kraken X headphones were first launched in 2019 as entry-level headphones designed for gamers. The headphones don’t have noise canceling or app support,…
The Razer Kraken X headphones were first launched in 2019 as entry-level headphones designed for gamers. The headphones don’t have noise canceling or app support, but they have a boom mic and ship with an ⅛ inch TRRS audio cable for plugging into an AUX port. They feature 40mm custom-tuned drivers, and their ear cups are generously padded. However, these headphones are wired.
Read our list of the best gaming headsets for some wireless alternatives. The Kraken X headphones have support for surround sound, and its control scheme includes a mute and unmute button for its mic and a volume wheel.
The Razer Kraken X headphones are slightly larger than the Razer BlackShark V2 X headphones, however, the V2 X headphones include a pouch for storage,…
The Razer Kraken X headphones are slightly larger than the Razer BlackShark V2 X headphones, however, the V2 X headphones include a pouch for storage, while the Kraken X headphones do not. The V2 X headphones also have much better sound leakage performance, and they also have thick memory foam ear cushions for added comfort. Another alternative similar to these that’s worth considering is the Razer Nari Ultimate, which we’ve covered in our Razer Nari Ultimate review.
While the Razer Kraken X headphones are only compatible with PCs and either PlayStation 4 and 5 consoles, the Razer Kraken V3 X headphones can…
While the Razer Kraken X headphones are only compatible with PCs and either PlayStation 4 and 5 consoles, the Razer Kraken V3 X headphones can be connected to PCs, both PlayStation 4 and 5 consoles, as well as Xbox One and Xbox Series X consoles through an analog connection. The V3 X has a companion app allowing users to customize its RGB lighting and configure their surround sound performance. This app support is missing on the Kraken X headphones. Still, you can learn more about the V3 X headphones through our Razer Kraken V3 X review.
The first noticeable difference between the Kraken X headphones and the Sennheiser Game One’s is that the former has a closed-back enclosure, while the latter…
The first noticeable difference between the Kraken X headphones and the Sennheiser Game One’s is that the former has a closed-back enclosure, while the latter has an open-back enclosure. The Kraken X headphones are also significantly larger than the Sennheiser headphones. We’ve covered the Game One headphones in our Sennheiser Game One review, so you can have a look if you’re interested.
Adjustable Headband
Yes
Yes
Yes
–
Auto-Adjusting Headband
Yes
No
No
–
Battery Life
Wired
–
n/a
–
Compatible Platforms
Mac, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X
Android, Mac, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X
