Turtle Beach Recon 50X Gaming Headset Review Best for Xbox and PlayStation Gamers

Description

Comfortable and Lightweight Design for Extended Gaming Sessions

I’ve tested plenty of gaming headsets, and one thing I immediately noticed about the Turtle Beach Recon 50 is its lightweight build. At just 5.4 ounces, this headset doesn’t weigh you down during those marathon gaming sessions. The ear cushions are soft and comfortable, which I appreciated after several hours of use. They’re made from a synthetic leather material that feels premium enough for the price point. While the plastic construction keeps it light, it might feel a bit less durable compared to pricier models, but it held up well under regular use.

The adjustable headband is a nice touch, allowing the headset to fit comfortably on different head sizes. My nephew, who loves Fortnite, borrowed it for a few rounds, and he had no complaints about discomfort. That said, if you’re someone who’s rough with your gear, you may want to keep an eye on the plastic joints.

Audio Performance That Packs a Punch

The audio quality delivered by the 40mm speakers is quite impressive for its price range. The highs are crisp, and the bass has a satisfying depth, making explosions and in-game sound effects feel more immersive. I tested it while playing Call of Duty and was able to clearly hear enemy footsteps, which gave me a competitive edge. The headset also supports spatial sound technologies like Windows Sonic and Dolby Atmos (if your device supports them), which creates an even more immersive experience.

From a music perspective, it’s decent but not exceptional. The sound profile is definitely tuned for gaming, so audiophiles might find it lacking some nuance for music playback. That said, it’s hard to complain when the price-to-quality ratio is this good.

Convenient Controls and Removable Mic

One of the key benefits of this headset is the in-line controls. I found it super handy to adjust the volume and mute the mic without having to fiddle around with on-screen settings. The controls are intuitive and responsive, a small feature that makes a big difference during gameplay.

The removable high-sensitivity mic is another feature I appreciated. It’s perfect for situations when you just want to chill and watch a movie or listen to music without the mic sticking out awkwardly. The mic itself picks up voice clearly and cancels out most background noise effectively. I used it during a group chat on Discord, and my friends mentioned they could hear me loud and clear without any distortion. However, the mic arm feels slightly fragile, so I’d recommend handling it with care.

Versatile Compatibility Across Devices

This headset’s 3.5mm jack makes it compatible with almost everything—Xbox, PlayStation, PC, and even mobile devices. I tested it across my Xbox Series X and PS5, and it worked seamlessly on both platforms. I also plugged it into my laptop for a quick Zoom call, and it transitioned just as easily. For gamers who switch between systems, this versatility is a big plus.

However, it’s worth noting that you may need an adapter for older Xbox One controllers without a 3.5mm jack, which is sold separately. While that’s not a dealbreaker, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re rocking older gear.

Positives

• Lightweight and comfortable design for long sessions.
• Clear and immersive sound with solid bass response.
• Removable mic for flexibility when not gaming.
• Universal compatibility with Xbox, PlayStation, PC, and mobile devices.
• Affordable price point offering great value.

Adverse Aspects

• Plastic construction feels less durable.
• The mic arm could be sturdier.
• Not ideal for music lovers—sound is more suited for gaming.

Competing Products

While the Turtle Beach Recon 50 stands out in its price range, there are a few comparable models worth considering. For instance, the HyperX Cloud Stinger offers slightly better build quality with its metal sliders, but it’s a bit heavier, which some might find less comfortable. The Recon 50, however, has the edge when it comes to lightweight comfort.

On the other hand, the Razer Kraken X provides virtual 7.1 surround sound for PC users, which might appeal to those who prioritize audio immersion. However, the Kraken X lacks a removable mic, making the Recon 50 the more versatile choice if you prefer flexibility.

Affordable Quality

The Turtle Beach Recon 50 provides a budget-friendly solution for gamers who want solid performance without breaking the bank. Compared to pricier headsets with similar audio quality, this one holds its own remarkably well. While it’s not without its flaws, the combination of comfort, sound clarity, and compatibility makes it a smart spending choice for casual and competitive gamers alike. For the price, it’s hard to beat the value this headset delivers.

Additional information