Razer upgraded one of its best budget wireless headsets with RGB, but I'm not convinced it was needed

I’ve spent countless hours with headphones and headsets of all shapes, sizes, and price points, so I feel like I’ve got a pretty good handle on what makes a great audio accessory. And let me tell you, the Razer Barracuda X Chroma has certainly caught my eye!

Regardless of your thought process, there might be times when having just one versatile headset, suitable for connecting to your personal computer at home for gaming purposes, and for linking with your mobile device during travel, is all you truly require.

As a researcher delving into various gaming headsets from Razer, I find that the “Barracuda” series stands out as the ideal choice for my needs. These models boast more subtle designs that may not initially appear as typical gamer gear. The most budget-friendly option within this line is the Razer Barracuda X, and recently, a Chroma variant has been introduced. This mid-generation upgrade comes with several significant improvements, and true to form, Razer has incorporated an abundance of customizable RGB lighting into the design.

Despite the Razer Barracuda X Chroma continuing to be a reliable wireless gaming headset capable of adapting to various activities, this updated version seems somewhat unusual. Although it has some improvements, you’re essentially paying more for the inclusion of RGB lighting – a feature that doesn’t seem as beneficial in an entry-level wireless headset. Furthermore, compared to the non-Chroma Barracuda X, this new model actually lacks one feature and can be purchased at a lower price point.

Barracuda X Chroma: Pricing and specifications

The Razer Barracuda X Chroma retails for $130.
This is $30 more than the regular Barracuda X, which is still available.

As a devoted fan, I must admit that the new Razer Barracuda X Chroma bears a striking resemblance to its predecessor in terms of design and size. However, it’s not just a simple upgrade; it’s a step forward that subtly distinguishes it from the earlier version. The similarities extend beyond aesthetics, with many functional aspects being carried over as well.

As a devoted fan, I’ve noticed an interesting comparison between the Razer Barracuda X Chroma and the original Razer Barracuda X. You can grab the Chroma version at Best Buy for $129.99, but And if you keep an eye out, it often drops to an even lower price of around $70. Considering the limited upgrades, it seems like a wise choice for many of us to save that extra $30+ and opt for the non-Chroma Barracuda X instead.

Inside the box, you will discover:

Barracuda X Chroma: The good

The new RGB lighting is very tastefully done, enhancing the design.
For the price, this headset also has a warm, pleasant sound profile.
Wireless performance is excellent, and it’s easy to switch devices.

The original Razer Barracuda X sports a streamlined, subtle design perfect for any setting or head, and the Barracuda X Chroma takes this a step further with customizable lighting. Razer has skillfully incorporated this lighting feature, maintaining an exceptionally neat appearance while offering you ample flexibility to personalize it according to your preference.

Even though the Barracuda X Chroma is heavier than its previous version, it remains comfortable to wear. The clamping force is almost spot-on (it could be slightly tighter), and the fabric cushions are both soft and breathable. The build quality aligns with my expectations for a headset priced around $100 – the materials may not be exceptional, but they’re at least robustly constructed.

On the periphery of the device, you’ll come across several key features: a USB Type-C charging port, an audio jack for your detachable microphone, a volume control knob, a mute switch, the power button, and Razer’s SmartSwitch button. Despite the number of components, the layout is user-friendly; the power button serves double duty as media controls (play/pause, skip to next/previous track), and the SmartSwitch button allows you to toggle connectivity modes and built-in equalizer settings.

I’ve noticed this SmartSwitch button performs exceptionally well, boasting dependable and swift connections not just via Bluetooth, but also 2.4GHz. It’s a delight to find four built-in Equalizers (EQs) at my disposal, with the fourth one being customizable through Razer Synapse or Razer Audio apps on both Android and iOS devices.

Put on the Razer Barracuda X Chroma headset, and you can expect a familiar audio performance. This headset utilizes Razer’s reliable TriForce 40mm drivers, offering a well-rounded, warm, and satisfying sound for both gaming and music. While the Barracuda X doesn’t provide an intense bass or crystal-clear highs, it still offers more than satisfactory performance at its price point and is responsive enough to keep pace with even the most demanding games.

The Razer Barracuda X Chroma has significantly increased its battery life compared to its previous version, boosting from 50 hours to a more impressive 70 hours. However, it’s important to note that this is only when the RGB lighting is turned off – with the lights on, you can expect around 30 hours of use. Fortunately, Razer’s battery life estimates are typically reliable, and disabling the lighting will extend the battery life (unfortunately, this cannot be done directly through the headset itself).

Barracuda X Chroma: The bad

RGB lighting is a luxury addition that needlessly increases cost.
The Barracuda X Chroma ultimately doesn’t feel like a major upgrade.
This is especially true of the microphone, which is decidedly average.

High-end gaming equipment often comes with RGB lighting, which is commonly viewed as a sign of luxury. Even some budget brands may add weak RGB LEDs to their low-cost products to give the impression that they are higher quality, even though there’s no real reason for it and it increases the price.

Here comes the Razer Barracuda X Chroma, a slightly enhanced version of one of Razer’s budget wireless gaming headsets. They’ve added some minor improvements, included RGB illumination, and increased the price by approximately 30%. However, it seems this upgrade may only offer side-grades at best, as the Barracuda X Chroma pales in comparison to its older model in terms of value (which Razer still offers for sale). This disparity becomes even more evident when you remember that the RGB lighting is primarily intended for others, since it’s not visible to the user themselves.

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An extended battery life is certainly beneficial, but be aware that the Barracuda X Chroma may drain more quickly if you utilize its unique lighting feature. Unfortunately, this upgrade comes with a 35-gram weight increase, which is significant, and it will no longer support 3.5mm wired audio. These downsides overshadow any of the other minor advancements such as enhanced wireless performance, better software compatibility, built-in EQ profiles, and an upgraded microphone. As for the microphone…

The Barracuda X Chroma headset mic, which carries the “HyperClear Cardioid” branding from Razer, occasionally experiences issues where it doesn’t function and its sound quality is merely satisfactory at best. Since it’s designed for single directional recording, you’ll need to boost the microphone volume. Unfortunately, there are no advanced settings or customization options available to enhance your recording experience beyond enabling sidetone monitoring.

Since it doesn’t have a retractable feature and there are no built-in microphones with the Barracuda X Chroma, you’ll find yourself carrying it along if you wish to utilize this headset for making phone calls.

Barracuda X Chroma: Final thoughts

You should buy this if …

✅You want a sleek, straightforward headset for gaming and media consumption

The Razer Barracuda X Chroma is crafted to function seamlessly across multiple platforms, serving various purposes as a wireless headset. Indeed, it delivers on this objective. Featuring a subtle, non-distracting design, it offers an enjoyable, well-balanced sound quality, and boasts a dependable battery performance.

✅You really want that RGB lighting

As a researcher evaluating various gaming headsets, I must admit that the Barracuda X Chroma stands out with its exceptionally well-crafted RGB lighting – arguably the best I’ve encountered in the industry. Its visual appeal is undeniable, and it offers an impressive array of customization options to suit individual preferences. If you prioritize aesthetics and are willing to invest a bit more for that premium experience, rest assured that this headset will not disappoint you.

You should not buy this if …

❌You’re looking for function over form at a great price

Instead of $130, the Barracuda X Chroma doesn’t offer the same value as its previous model, especially considering it frequently goes on sale. The additional RGB lighting comes at a premium, but there are more affordable headsets that can match or surpass the Barracuda X Chroma in terms of practicality.

I truly enjoy the Razer Barracuda X Chroma. It’s an adaptable, comfy, and well-balanced wireless headset that I can wear for extended periods without any issues, whether for gaming or music. Its design is striking, and the RGB lighting is impressively done. However, it’s worth noting that the Barracuda X Chroma isn’t entirely unique; it faces some competition from its predecessor models.

You can still buy the Razer Barracuda X, and when it can be found for as much as $60 less than the Barracuda X Chroma, it’s hard to justify trading a lower weight, and wired audio support for RGB lighting, slightly longer battery life, and minor upgrades to the wireless connectivity, microphone, and software features. I couldn’t blame you for really liking how the Barracuda X Chroma looks, though, especially that stunning two-tone white colorway (I honestly wish I had requested that color from Razer to review instead).

At present, you have the chance to acquire the Razer Barracuda X Chroma priced at $129.99 on Best Buy. This purchase allows you an opportunity to spend a bit extra and make quite an impression with your choice of headset. However, it’s worth noting that Xbox compatibility is not yet supported.

2024-12-28 17:09

Razer upgraded one of its best budget wireless headsets with RGB, but I’m not convinced it was needed