Geek Review: Razer Kraken V3 Pro HyperSense Wireless Gaming Headset

The Razer Kraken series is the gaming gear company’s line of gaming headsets that offers solid audio quality and a comfortable fit, but for a price. It is clear that Razer knows they have designed a good product since they’ve started working with other brands to make themed Kraken headsets and while those have their appeal, the Razer Kraken V3 Pro is meant to be the premium headset in the series with wireless functionality.

Out of the box, the Kraken V3 Pro looks unimpressive compared to its themed brethren, because it looks, well, plain. It’s fully black, and appears to be just a regular headset. Sure, the Razer logo is present on the outside of the ear cups and Razer’s name is emblazoned on the headband, but those details are not accented in a way that stands out initially. But things change once you put the headset on and plug it in.

The most immediately noticeable feature is that the entire headband is cushioned, and the ear cups are also generously fluffed up for comfort. This is a comfortable headset that remains so even after long hours of use. While the ear cups cannot be freely rotated the way the ear cups of some headsets can, there will likely be no issue in achieving the ideal fit. The Razer Kraken V3 Pro stays in place properly even during vigorous movement, and despite that, it barely feels like it’s on your head. While it weighs 372g, it feels like it’s about 100g instead due to the effectiveness of the cushions.

It may be designed as a gaming headset, but there’s an argument here for using the headset while exercising. It’s a bit of a shame then, that the only wireless option is through a USB-A 2.4GHz dongle. If there’s a Bluetooth option, this would be a great headset to use while jogging. Still, the dongle makes it easy to set up the headset for wireless use. It’s also compatible with PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and the Nintendo Switch, which is great for console gamers.

While the headset is in use, Razer’s signature RGB Chroma lights at the ear cups, where the logos are, come to life, making for a nice bit of visual flair. Of course, the way the RGB Chroma dances through its gamut of colours isn’t visible to the user while wearing the headset. This is a bit of classy showing off that doesn’t overdo it, which is likely to appeal to users who prefer to be noticed in an understated way.

Controls and ports are spaced out in a way that makes them easy to navigate. The left cup has the mic mute button, the volume dial, the power button, the audio jack, USB-C port, and detachable mic port. The right cup has the Hypersense haptic button. Everything is spaced out enough so it’s easy to get used to the controls without accidentally pressing the wrong button or getting the wrong port. The one issue is the high sensitivity of the volume dial, which results in the volume being shifted even with just a light graze. While not really a problem when using the headset, it’s something to take note of.

Sound quality is robust, with the 50mm drivers ensuring that the audio will carry excellent depth and richness. As far as gaming is concerned, it’s difficult to ask for anything more. When it comes to music, while the Razer Kraken V3 Pro is no slouch, the EQ may require some calibrating before the music shines. This is hardly an issue though, as EQ adjustment is often part of the process of breaking in a new headset.

The one feature that places the Razer Kraken V3 Pro squarely in the realm of gaming headsets is the haptics. The haptics button offers three different intensity levels, which adds tactile immersion during gameplay sessions. The rumbling effect is especially exciting for first-person shooters. While it is not a feature that will appeal to everyone, those who enjoy a high level of immersion and are looking for ways to enhance their gaming experience could find this of interest.

The detachable mic works well enough when it comes to communication in-game. It’s not a mic to write home about, but with a limited degree of adjustment given in the Razer Synapse hub, it’s still a reliable mic that can transmit voice clearly.

Overall, Razer Kraken V3 Pro is an excellent headset that’s comfortable to wear while delivering rich audio. While it may not be as bombastic in terms of visual flair when compared to other Razer peripherals, there is an elegance to its more understated design that underscores its quality. With a wireless battery life of around 10 hours with haptics and RGB lights on, and about 40 hours with them off, this is a reliable primary headset for gamers. When it comes to the price, S$329.90 puts it on the higher end of mid-range headsets, and as such it’s for those who are either Razer fans or who are looking for something that offers more oomph compared to the lower end options.