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The Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair kept me cool for some seriously sweaty gaming sessions
5:00 pm | January 2, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Comments: Off

One-minute review

The Asus ROG Destrier Core is a compelling option if you’re searching for a mesh gaming chair and don’t mind paying a little bit more for a refreshingly stylish overall design.

The brand claims that the striking look was inspired by a ‘futuristic cyborg aesthetic’ and, while I personally don’t see the resemblance, the abundance of sharp angles helps it stand out in a sea of generic racing seats. It’s still sleek enough to blend into an office environment, with little details like the attached ROG fabric strap and subtle ‘Republic of Gamers’ engraving that mean it will look just as at home in a high-end gaming setup like any of the best gaming chairs.

It’s very comfortable to sit on too, with its breathable nylon mesh ensuring that heat won’t build up over even the longest gaming sessions. I’ve been using this chair at my desk at TechRadar Gaming HQ for months, and it’s helped me keep cool both during the stuffy summer months and throughout winter when the heating is mercilessly cranked up to uncomfortable levels.

Despite its thin overall profile, it still provides a good level of lumbar support thanks to an adjustable system in its backrest and the ability to tweak seat height and depth to find the perfect sitting position. The included headrest is also a nice touch, offering substantially more comfort and adjustability than the much more static magnetic cushion found on the competing Secretlab Titan Evo 2022.

My only major complaint with the Asus ROG Destrier Core relates to the setup process out of the box. I assemble gaming chairs every other week, and this is one of the few models that I’ve struggled with. The included instructions are perfectly clear, but getting the heavy backrest into position so that you can screw everything together is tricky to do alone, and had me drafting a colleague in to help hold it in position.

Luckily, you’ll only have to do this once - but it is worth bearing in mind that you might need a friend on hand.

The Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair in an office environment.

(Image credit: Future)

Price and availability

  • Costs $629.99 / £499.99 / around AU$600
  • Available via Asus and online retailers
  • Strong competition at this price

The Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair costs $629.99 / £499.99 / around AU$600. It’s readily available direct from Asus or at online retailers such as Amazon.

This price tag puts the chair towards the upper bracket of the mid-range market, coming in above supremely popular alternatives like the $519 / £414 / AU$724 Secretlab Titan Evo 2022.

What makes the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair worth picking in the face of such strong competition? The mesh material and the unique design, namely. Quality mesh gaming chairs are generally expensive, with the likes of the Razer Fujin Pro at an eye-watering $1,049 / £999, so this price tag is not too unreasonable.

Specs

Price

$629.99 / £499.99 / around AU$600

Dimensions

27.8 x 24.1 x 45.2-53.1 inches / 707 x 613 x 1150-1350mm

Max user weight

299.8lbs / 136kg

Min seat height

18.5in / 470mm

Seat width

20in / 510mm

Warranty

2 years

Design and aesthetics

  • Unique look
  • Quality materials
  • Subtle branding

With its distinctly angular look, the Asus ROG Destrier Core is pretty stylish as far as gaming chairs go. Asus has kept the aesthetic very minimalist, with most of the branding confined to subtle details.

This includes a neat fabric strap on the back of the headrest, which doubles as a convenient way to yank the chair around if you want to move it. There’s also a small ‘Republic of Gamers’ engraving on its spine, and a subtle ROG logo on the back of the headrest’s mesh.

Looking at the chair head-on, the only real indication that this is indeed a gaming product is the red ROG emblem emblazoned on the headrest. If this isn’t to your liking, though, Asus also offers a white version of the chair that swaps the red out for a much more subtle silver color.

As you would expect, given the price tag, the materials here are flawless across the board. The nylon mesh is impressively strong, and the armrests benefit from a soft layer of foam padding. The casters are smooth, gliding across surfaces with ease and minimal noise.

This chair has been used heavily throughout its time at our office so far, with someone sitting in it every weekday for months, and in that time, it's sustained very few visible marks or scuffs, which is particularly impressive.

The Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair in an office environment.

(Image credit: Future)

Comfort and adjustability

  • Adjustable lumbar support and 3D armrests
  • “Mobile gaming mode”
  • Highly comfortable to use

There is no shortage of adjustment options with the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair. It offers the standard height adjustment via a gas mechanism and the ability to alternate the backrest recline between three levels via a lever on the right-hand side of your seated position. You can also easily reposition the bottom of the seat to increase or decrease its depth with a lever located on the other side.

The armrests can be raised by up to 5.5 inches / 14cm and can rotate a full 360 degrees. They’re a decent size and have a layer of soft foam at the top to make them a bit more comfortable on your elbows.

Raise the armrests as far as possible to enter what Asus calls “mobile gaming mode” - designed to keep your arms elevated so you can hold a phone in front of your face without strain. It feels a little weird at first, but it does a surprisingly good job of improving mobile play if you’re at your desk.

Underneath the backrest is a basic lumbar support mechanism which can be raised and lowered freely, clicking into place. You can also tweak its depth slightly by twisting the two rotating dials on the back.

The Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair in an office environment.

(Image credit: Future)

The final points of adjustment are in the headrest, which can be raised or lowered in a range of 4.7 inches / 12cm or moved forward and backwards to ensure that it’s snugly against the back of your head. I’m quite tall and can struggle with headrests built into gaming chairs, but the range of adjustment here made it easy to get it into the perfect spot.

Add in the breathability of the mesh material, and you have a chair that remains comfortable even over extended periods of use. I’ve sat in it for hours at a time and haven’t experienced any soreness or fatigue.

The Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair in an office environment.

(Image credit: Future)

Assembly

  • All necessary tools included
  • Backrest is difficult to align
  • I’d recommend having a friend help

Assembling the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair is a bit of a chore as the components are quite heavy, which makes them difficult to maneuver on your own.

Due to the shape of the backrest, it’s hard to keep it in place when it needs to be screwed in - so I’d highly recommend making sure that you have a friend on hand to lend a hand.

The instructions are thankfully very clear, and all necessary tools are included in the box, so Asus gains some marks back there.

Should I buy the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair?

Buy it if...

You’re after a stylish gaming seat
The overall design and aesthetic is one of the highlights of the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair. It’s attractive and unique, and wouldn’t look out of place in either an office or a gaming den.

You want a breathable mesh
The Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair boasts a quality nylon mesh that provides a good level of breathability to stop heat building over as you sit.

Don't buy it if...

You want to save some cash
The Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair is a compelling package, but there’s plenty of strong competition around this price. The Secretlab Titan Evo 2022, for example, is another comfortable chair that comes in a little cheaper.

Also consider...

If you’re not sold on the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair, then these two alternatives are worth weighing up.

Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair

Secretlab Titan Evo 2022

Razer Fujin Pro

Price

$629.99 / £499.99 / around AU$600

$549 / £469 / AU$799

$1,049 / £‎1,315 / around AU$ 2,600

Dimensions

27.8 x 24.1 x 45.2-53.1 inches / 707 x 613 x 1150-1350mm

51.2 x 27.6 x 19.3in / 130 x 70 x 49cm

28.57 x 16.94 x 36.05in / 725 x 430 x 915mm

Max user weight

299.8lbs / 136kg

285lbs / 130kg

136kg / 300lbs

Min seat height

18.5 inches / 470mm

17.7in / 45cm

18.5 inches

Seat width

20 inches / 510mm

18.5in / 470mm

20.9 inches / 530mm

Warranty

2 years

3 years

5 years

Secretlab Titan Evo 2022
This popular gaming chair is a strong alternative. It’s not a mesh model, but it’s still highly comfortable with plenty of adjustment options. It’s even a little cheaper than the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair - and comes in more color options to boot.

For more information, check out our full Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 review

Razer Fujin Pro
If you want another mesh option, then this high-end competitor from hardware giant Razer is worth a look. It’s much more expensive than the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair, but delivers a supreme level of comfort.

For more information, check out our full Razer Fujin Pro review

How I tested the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair

  • Tested for multiple months
  • Sat in for hours at a time
  • Compared to other gaming chairs

I tested the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair over multiple months at the TechRadar Gaming office.

Throughout that time, I used the chair every time I was working from the office, sitting in it for multiple hours at a time. In addition to office work, I tested gaming products like the Nintendo Switch 2 from the seat and was careful to evaluate its mobile gaming mode.

I compared my experience to my hands-on testing of many other gaming chairs, including the likes of the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 and my go-to at-home pick: the Herman Miller Sayl.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed September-December 2025.

The Astro A20 X doesn’t get any points for originality, but it’s still a great gaming headset
4:00 pm | December 26, 2025

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Astro A20 X: Two-minute review

The Astro A20 X is basically a jazzed-up version of the Logitech G522 Lightspeed - but is that such a bad thing? That latter headset is, in my eyes, one of the best wireless gaming headsets of the year, and many of its strongest qualities have carried forward into the Astro A20 X.

You’re still getting fantastic, well-balanced sound that, despite lacking a bit of bass out of the box, can be easily tweaked to perfection in the strong Logitech G Hub companion software. On PC, there’s support for DTS Headphone:X too, which delivers immersive spatial audio that’s perfect for immersive story titles like Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2.

It features the same excellent detachable 48kHz microphone, which picks up your voice clearly when you’re chatting on services like Discord, and the handy red LED indicator that tells you when it’s muted.

The level of comfort offered by the headset is unchanged, too. It’s lightweight but feels suitably durable, with plush earcups and a pleasantly soft headband. The design looks bulky on my head, but it's hard to complain about this too much when it’s so comfortable to wear.

The Astro A20 X gaming headset on a wooden desktop surface.

(Image credit: Future)

So what is actually new this time around? The big new addition isn’t found on the headset itself, but rather what else you get in the box. The Astro A20 X comes bundled with a small Playsync base and two USB Type-C cables. This is its wireless dongle, and it can be plugged into two different systems at the same time.

Tapping a tiny new button found on the back of the headset itself switches between the two systems almost instantaneously, which is a game-changer if you’re like me and use a PlayStation 5 and PC (or Xbox and PC) with the same display. The feature works fantastically, but I can’t help but feel that the use of the Astro branding is a bit of a misstep from Logitech.

Sure, Astro products do generally support multiple platforms - but the headset’s design looks nothing like existing models like the Astro A50 X or Astro A10.

It doesn’t even have an Astro logo on it - bearing the same Logitech G branding as the Logitech G522 Lightspeed. As a big fan of the Astro brand, there’s something a little sad about seeing it lose some of its identity like this.

The Astro A20 X gaming headset on a wooden desktop surface.

(Image credit: Future)

Astro A20 X: Price and availability

  • Costs $179.99 / £169.99 / AU$349.99
  • More expensive than the G522 Lightspeed
  • Worth it if you use multiple platforms

At $179.99 / £169.99 / AU$349.99, the Astro A20 X is priced just a touch higher than the Logitech G522 Lightspeed, which costs $159.99 / £139.99 / AU$299.99. It can be found at most of the same retailers, meaning Amazon and Best Buy in the US or Amazon, Currys, and Argos in the UK. In Australia, it can be purchased at Amazon and JB Hi-Fi.

Whether the extra $20 / £30 / AU$50 is worth it compared to the Logitech G522 Lightspeed is largely going to come down to your platform preferences. If you use two or more platforms in the same setup, the Astro A20 X makes a lot of sense and will be the more convenient option.

At this increased price point, you will need to consider alternatives like the Razer BlackShark V3 or SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless more seriously, though. That latter model is significantly cheaper at $129.99 / £129.99 / AU$139.95 and offers similarly good audio quality, though you do miss out on the convenient platform switching.

Astro A20 X: Specs

Price

$179.99 / £169.99 / AU$349.99

Weight

10.23oz / 290g

Compatibility

PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Android, iOS

Connection type

Bluetooth, Lightspeed Wireless, Wired USB-C

Battery life

40 hrs (default lighting), 90hrs (RGB off)

Features

Detachable 48kHz / 16 bit omni microphone, Lightsync RGB, Playsync Base

Software

Logitech G Hub (PC) / Logitech G app (mobile)

Astro A20 X: Design and features

  • Almost identical to the G522
  • New platform switching button and base
  • Spatial audio support on PC

Logitech hasn’t taken any risks with the design of the Astro A20 X, making only minimal changes compared to the G522 Lightspeed. On the headset itself, the only noticeable change is two extra buttons on the back of the right earcup.

One is a volume mix rocker that increases or decreases the volume of a call compared to your game, while the other is a little red switching button. This works in tandem with the new Playsync Base - a super compact dongle that connects to two systems with USB Type-C.

The front of the base features two LED lights, which illuminate to denote your selected input device. On the back, you’ll find the two USB Type-C ports and two little switches.

The Astro A20 X gaming headset on a wooden desktop surface.

(Image credit: Future)

These switches are labeled Xbox / USB and PC / USB, respectively, and should be selected depending on what you have plugged in. Luckily, a useful guide is printed on the bottom of the Base to tell you what you need to choose if you want to use a PC, Xbox, PlayStation, or Switch.

The Base has two little rubber feet that help it grip the surface of your desk a little better, though I find that it can still slip off from time to time. The base is very, very light, and even just the weight of the plugged-in USB cables can move it around.

The new platform switching aside, the Astro A20 X otherwise boasts identical features to the Logitech G522 Lightspeed, with highlights like PC spatial audio support and customizable RGB zones on each earcup. The colorways of the Astro A20 X are also slightly different from the G522 Lightspeed. There’s still a Black and White option, but both feature red accent colors rather than blue.

The Astro A20 X gaming headset on a wooden desktop surface.

(Image credit: Future)

Astro A20 X: Performance

  • Comfortable to wear
  • High quality audio
  • Great microphone

Being nearly identical to the excellent G522 Lightspeed, it’s very hard to fault the performance of the Astro A20 X.

It sounds great out of the box, though as with that headset, I would personally use the companion Logitech G Hub software to crank the low frequencies (20Hz, 50Hz and 125Hz) up by 3dB, 2dB, and 1dB then add 0.5dB at the higher end for slightly better all-round sound as the bass is a little weak by default.

You can access all the same good presets of the G522 Lightspeed with the Astro A20 X, too, including a bass boost mode, gaming mode, dedicated FPS mode, and a media mode, or download hundreds of alternatives created by the community.

The microphone is indistinguishable too. It’s high-fidelity at 48kHz and picks up your voice well, though it does tend to allow in background noise, so I would suggest making sure the noise cancellation features of the Logitech G Hub software are on.

Battery life is identical to the G522 as well, and in my testing, I easily managed a touch over 40 hours with RGB enabled, which is a decent result.

On top of all this, the new platform switching feature works flawlessly with no noticeable delay, swapping you over, and has no issues with pairing.

The Astro A20 X gaming headset on a wooden desktop surface.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Astro A20 X?

Buy it if...

You play on two systems on one display
The platform switching feature of the Astro A20 X makes it a great choice if you play on a console and PC or two consoles via the same display.

You’d like strong audio and a great mic
The Astro A20 X has the same audio chops as the G522 Lightspeed. It sounds clear and crisp out of the box, with a killer microphone to boot.

Don't buy it if...

You don’t need to frequently swap platforms
If you’re only going to be playing on one system or don’t switch between them often, you're better off with the G522. Moving its dongle between machines isn’t too much of a hassle, and you’ll save some cash.

Also consider...

Not sold on the Astro A20 X? Here are two other options to consider, including the original Logitech G522 Lightspeed.

Astro A20 X

Logitech G522 Lightspeed

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5

Price

$179.99 / £169.99 / AU$349.99

$159.99 / £139.99 / AU$229

$129.99 / £129.99 / AU$139.95

Weight

10.23oz / 290g

10.22oz / 290g

9.5oz / 266g

Compatibility

PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Android, iOS

PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Android, iOS

Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mac, Mobile

Connection type

Bluetooth, Lightspeed Wireless, Wired USB-C

Bluetooth, Lightspeed Wireless, Wired USB-C

Wireless (2.4GHz via dongle), Wired (USB-C), Bluetooth 5.3

Battery life

40 hrs (default lighting), 90hrs (RGB off)

40 hrs (default lighting), 90hrs (RGB off)

Up to 60 hours

Features

Detachable 48kHz / 16 bit omni microphone, Lightsync RGB, Playsync Base

Detachable 48kHz / 16 bit omni microphone, Lightsync RGB

360-degree spatial audio, retractable ClearCast 2.X mic

Software

Logitech G Hub (PC) / Logitech G app (mobile)

Logitech G Hub (PC) / Logitech G app (mobile)

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Companion App (mobile), SteelSeries GG

Logitech G522 Lightspeed
The Logitech G522 Lightspeed is nearly identical to the Astro A20 X minus the platform switching feature, but it comes in cheaper. You can still use it with multiple systems if you’re willing to manually swap the dongle or Bluetooth pairing each time.

For more information, check out our full Logitech G522 Lightspeed review

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5
The SteelSeries Arcis Nova 5 is an absolute titan of the mid-range headset demographic and becomes a seriously tempting option compared to the Astro A20 X. It’s much cheaper, but still offers great sound - you do lose the functionality of the Playsync Base though.

For more information, check out our full SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 review

How I tested the Astro A20 X

  • Tested for multiple months
  • Tried with a wide range of games
  • Tested with PC, Xbox, and PS5

I tested the Astro A20 X over a period of multiple months, using it with PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC. In that time, I played plenty of games with it, including Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and subsequently Black Ops 7, plus the likes of Astro Bot, Sniper Elite: Resistance, Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade, Lego Horizon Adventures, Dead Island 2, and more.

Throughout my time with the headset, I compared its performance to a range of other models that I’ve tested, including the Logitech G522 Lightspeed and SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5, plus more premium alternatives like the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro and Astro A50 X.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed September-December 2025

I tested Beyerdynamic’s new gaming headset – it’s an immersive, mid-market gem
9:00 pm | November 29, 2025

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless: two-minute review

The Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless is a multi-platform gaming headset that will unlock quality immersive audio. It also offers wired USB-C and low-latency connectivity via a USB-C dongle and a removable mic. While it’s already out in the UK, the US release date is yet to be confirmed.

For a mid-market headset with a list price of £159 (around $210), the MMX 150 Wireless is impressively immersive. When I was stalking opponents on Counter-Strike 2, the soundstage always felt precise, enabling me to detect the direction of firefights or distinguish footsteps as people attempted to sneak up on me.

But I would say it’s in action games where the MMX 150 Wireless really shows off its strengths. While playing The Outer Worlds 2, the world around me felt deep and richly layered. Reverberant industrial sounds and the idle chatter of NPCs are always perfectly positioned, making you feel like you’re sitting at the dead centre of an expansive sphere of sound. And effects are exquisitely detailed – the distorted dialogue of in-game voice recordings always feels convincingly conveyed, like you’re actually interacting with aged comms equipment.

The presets provided in the Beyerdynamic app help polish the sound up even further, even if the overall effect lands more on the subtle side compared to some of the best wireless gaming headsets. Upping trebles and mids, the Shooter preset did a credible job of making gun shots and footsteps even more distinct for when you want to sniff out enemies, while Action mode adds more gravitas, boosting bass and treble to give the world around you more substance.

Mic performance is more of a mixed result, however. Testing it out in-game and by recording some audio, the quality of its audio felt decent, if unexceptional. Its noise filtering was genuinely pretty impressive, though, capturing none of the background noise I was making, from key taps to loud, bassy music. The MMX 150 Wireless’s equivalent of transparency mode was a bit disappointing, though – even though it made my voice sound a lot clearer, it introduced a level of hiss that I’ve never heard from any of the best wireless headphones I’ve tested.

A closeup of the Bluetooth / power button on the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless.

(Image credit: Future)

Focusing more on its physical build now, the Beyerdynamic headset is seriously comfortable – I’ve had pillows that are less plush than these things. Thanks to the velour earpads, they’re super comfy, even during long gaming sessions, while the clamp force is just right for keeping them on your head without squishing your ears. Meanwhile, their height is easy to adjust to fit and offers a pretty expansive range, which is very helpful for my cumbersomely large cranium.

There are a few elements of the design I’m not a fan of, however. Aside from that cushy velour padding, the remaining materials of the MMX 150 Wireless feel a little flimsy – its plastic earcups echo every time you click the buttons, for example, slightly hampering the headset’s high-end feel. And while the white and black colorway I tested is a great match for the PS5, it’s ostentatiously gamer-y enough in its styling that I can’t really imagine myself using it for listening to music on the go.

When it comes to features, this Beyerdynamic’s app has a decent smattering. There’s the aforementioned sound presets, which cover gaming modes from Strategy to Racing and music modes from Bass to Smooth, as well as a custom five-band EQ. On top of this, it allows you to customize the functions behind button taps, switch Sidetone on and off, change the language of voice prompts, alter the auto shutdown time, and set the ringtone level.

Battery life is more than adequate for long gaming sessions. Despite Beyerdynamic listing it online as having a total life of 50 hours, its app actually gave the MMX 150 Wireless an estimated life of 68 hours. Having tested it by playing music over Bluetooth at 50% volume for a full day to see how rapidly its battery depleted, I found this estimate is actually pretty spot on, meaning the MMX 150 Wireless has a pretty generous battery life, especially for this price.

Ultimately, the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless is a strong performer for its mid-market price, offering detailed, immersive sound and a super comfy build. Sure, I’d generally like a slightly sturdier build from a headset of this price, and I’m not totally convinced by that noisy Sidetone mic mode. But if your biggest priorities are simply plunging yourself into your games and having spot-on situational awareness, you could do a lot worse.

Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless review: price & availability

  • Launched on October 5, 2025 in the UK
  • US release date TBC
  • List price of £159

Having launched on October 8, 2025, the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless is already in the UK. Unfortunately, there’s no official release date that’s been announced for the US at the time of writing, but we’ll update this review when we have more information.

The MMX 150 Wireless has a list price of £159 – while that translates to around $210, the still unfolding landscape around tariffs makes it hard to accurately predict what the actual retail price will be. There are currently two colorways available for the headset: black and the white version tested here.

A closeup of the mic port, USB port and play button on the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless.

(Image credit: Future)

Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless review: specs

Price

£159 (around $210)

Weight

0.7 lbs / 336g

Compatibility

PC, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Playstation 4, Nintendo Switch 2, Steam Deck

Connection type

Bluetooth, Wired (USB-C), low-latency 2.4GHz wireless (dongle)

Features

Five-band EQ, 10 sound presets, Sidetone mode, custom button settings, plug-in mic with noise reduction

Battery life

50 hours

Software

Beyerdynamic app

The Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless held in a man's hands, showing the inside of the cups.

(Image credit: Future)

Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless review: design / features

  • Comfortable and cosy
  • 68-hour battery life
  • Some materials feel a little cheap

When I put the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless on, the first thing I noticed was how cosy it feels. Honestly, it’s a little like you’re slipping your head into a velour cocoon. While those earpads aren’t necessarily the most subtle look, I cannot argue that they’re not incredibly comfortable. My only concern here is whether they’ll get a little toasty when summer rolls around – I’m not sure they’ll be particularly breathable or sweat-wicking.

And it’s not just the earpads that feel plush and comfortable: this continues throughout the MMX 150 Wireless’s design. Not only is it lightweight – clocking in at 336g – but its clamp force is pitched just right, keeping them well positioned on your head without unpleasantly squishing your ear cartilage.

It's also easy to adjust to fit. Some brands overthink this – one of the few points I criticized the super-affordable Turtle Beach Atlas 200 on recently was how it was impossible to adjust its height while you were wearing it. Beyerdynamic seems to recognize that sometimes the simplest solution is the most elegant: the earcups here simply raise and lower on a notched band, making it trivially easy to tweak them to the perfect height for you.

Unfortunately, sometimes this no-nonsense approach to design is less effective. In contrast to the luxurious feeling of the headset’s padding, the harder materials feel a little bit cheap. This is most pronounced when using the Control Wheel on the left cup – it’s a shade too clicky, and I found the noise resonates through the plasticky casing. Using more substantial materials here could have definitely made the experience of using these controls feel a little more premium.

And while this may be more of a personal preference, I’m also not totally keen on the MMX 150 Wireless’s styling, with the headset leaning a little too far into the gamer aesthetic for my liking. Don’t get me wrong: there’s no flashing RGB lighting or Cybertruck-esque sharp angles here. But the orange highlights, exposed wires, and the white and black colorway of the model I tested make it pretty clear this is a gaming headset first and foremost – you’re not going to be able to use it to listen to tunes on the subway without drawing a glance or two.

Moving on to the MMX 150 Wireless’s features, it has a decent range of capabilities, even if it’s maybe not quite as talented as some premium headsets.

Its connectivity options are pretty great. You can connect it to any compatible device via Bluetooth 5.3, and for the odd gadget that doesn’t have wireless connectivity, you can hook it up via its USB-C to 3.5mm jack cable. Perhaps the best option for committed gamers though, is its included wireless low-latency dongle – although Beyerdynamic doesn’t get specific about how much latency we’re talking about here, it promises negligible lag between the visuals and audio, something competitive gamers will definitely appreciate.

On paper, the MMX 150 Wireless’s battery life sounds unexceptional for a wireless gaming headset, with many topping its billed 50-hour life. However, when I fired up the Beyerdynamic app, it actually gave me its estimated life on a full charge as being about 68 hours.

Wanting to put this to the test, I set the headset playing music over Bluetooth at half volume for most of the day to see how much it would drain. It took seven hours and five minutes for its charge to drop to 90%, putting its total battery life at something like 71 hours and 10 minutes. Even taking into account the fact that its battery likely doesn’t discharge evenly, that means it will likely deliver that 68-hour life, enabling it to keep up with more headsets on the market.

The Beyerdynamic app offers a decent array of features and sound profiles, enabling me to customize various functions on the MMX 150 Wireless. First off, it offers up access to the headset’s five-band EQ and array of sound presets – these cover a range of scenarios, whether that’s bassy music, spoken words, or game genres like shooters, racing games, or strategy.

The app also allowed me to set which tap patterns of the multi-function button I wanted to play or pause audio, skip tracks back or forward, and switch audio sources. On top of this, it offers options for switching Sidetone on and off – Beyerdynamic’s name for its mic-boosting transparency mode – switching language of voice prompts, setting the headset’s auto shutdown tim,e and dialing in ringtone level.

The Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless on a man's head from a rear angle; he is spinning the volume wheel on one earcup with one finger.

(Image credit: Future)

Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless review: performance

  • Rich, immersive sound
  • Decent sound presets
  • Mic transparency mode a bit hissy

I’m always a bit wary when headsets throw around words like ‘immersive’ without details of specific spatial audio technologies. However, in the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless’ case, it’s hard to come up with an adjective that feels more apt – strapping it on really does plunge you into the middle of the games you’re playing.

Firing up The Outer Worlds 2, I was impressed with how alive the worlds around me sounded. Strolling around my ship, the crackle of electricity and whirring of machinery really made me feel like I was inhabiting an authentic, mechanical vessel. And the audio is detailed enough to feel visceral at times – carrying out stealth kills, the whoosh of the knife, and the pained gurgle of enemies was just unsettling enough to impress a scintilla of guilt on my jaded conscience.

This sense of immersion is very much supported by the precision of the MMX 150 Wireless’s soundstage, with its positioning of sounds always feeling spot on. During Counter-Strike 2 matches, I found it easier to pinpoint where enemies were than with cheaper headsets. Not only was locating the direction of gunfire much more straightforward, but I could easily tell by the sound of footsteps when someone was attempting to sneak up behind me, giving me a decent edge.

The low-latency dongle made this even more appreciable. Like I say, Beyerdynamic hasn’t explicitly laid out what kind of latency time the USB dongle is capable of, but at least subjectively, I noticed very little gap between the visuals on screen and the crack of shotguns or the thud of the R8 Revolver.

Sound presets were pretty effective, although I’d say their impact was subtle rather than transformative. When applying the Adventure preset during The Outer Worlds 2, it boosted the bass and treble slightly, giving those atmospheric sound effects a soupçon more impact and drama. Conversely, the Shooter preset upped the trebles and mids, emphasising the most useful frequencies for reacting to gunshots in Counter-Strike 2 – although this is perhaps less fun than the booming bass some headsets grant to the game’s rifle shots.

So the Beyerdynamic produces very decent sound for its price – but how well does it detect it? I’m pleased to say that the headset’s mic works well, capturing my voice with decent clarity. I was genuinely impressed with its noise filtering: it didn’t pick up the noise of me hammering away at my keyboard, and even my attempts to overwhelm it by playing pumping EDM in the background barely registered.

While I would have preferred a fold-to-mute mic design, its mute function still works well, cutting out instantly when you click in the Control Wheel. Annoyingly, I did find the action of the buttons and wheel does get picked up by the mic, though, appreciable at the other end as a definite echoey clunk.

The Sidetone mode mentioned above fulfills its brief reasonably well. It definitely made my voice less muted when speaking with the headset on, making it sound much more natural. I’ve clearly been a bit spoiled by the transparency mode of modern wireless headphones, though – Sidetone mode is a much blunter instrument by comparison, introducing a degree of background hiss that I absolutely wouldn’t tolerate from a pair of Bluetooth headphones.

All in all, the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless offers very decent performance. I enjoy being plunged into its sonic soundscapes, particularly in games with soundtracks that are suitably immersive enough to play to their strengths. It is a shame that the mic isn’t quite as polished, though: it’s the one area where I could definitely tell I was using a mid-range headset, rather than a more premium one.

A closeup of the USB port, play button and volume wheel on the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless?

Buy it if…

You want to be plunged right into your games
With its excellent soundstage, the MMX 150 Wireless puts you right at the heart of the action, giving you an excellent sense of space and fully immersing you in the action.

You prioritize comfort
Not only does this headset cosily cradle your ears with its velour earpads, but its clamp force is just right, keeping them in place without exerting excess pressure on your ears.

Don’t buy it if…

You’re after a sturdy, premium-feeling build
Despite this comfort, though, the rest of the MMX 150 Wireless’s materials leave something to be desired, feeling a little lightweight and plasticky for this price.

You want an unimpeachable microphone
Don’t get me wrong: the MMX 150 Wireless’s mic captures your voice well. But the clonky echo of its buttons on your audio stream and the hiss of its Sidetone mode slightly mar the experience of using it.

Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless review: also consider

Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless

HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P

Price

£159 (around $210)

$199.99 / £189.98

$199.99 / £174.99

Weight

0.7 lbs / 336g

0.7 lbs / 318g

0.7 lbs / 325g

Compatibility

PC, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Playstation 4, Nintendo Switch 2, Steam Deck

PC

PC, PlayStation 5, Playstation 4, Nintendo Switch 2, Steam Deck

Connection type

Bluetooth, Wired (USB-C), low-latency 2.4GHz wireless (dongle)

Wireless (dongle)

Bluetooth, Wired (USB-C), low-latency 2.4GHz wireless (dongle)

Features

Five-band EQ, 10 sound presets, Sidetone mode, custom button settings, plug-in mic with noise reduction

DTS Headphone:X Spatial Audio, noise-cancelling mic with LED status indicator

EQ, 200+ sound presets, Sidetone mode, retractable mic with noise reduction

Battery life

50 hours

300 hours

38 hours

Software

Beyerdynamic app

HyperX Ngenuity

Arctis Companion App

HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless
Not only does the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless offer fantastic audio, but it makes the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless’s battery life look positively ephemeral, offering a truly absurd 300 hours. And while its list price was initially higher than the MMX 150’s, in the US it has spent much of the last year at under $150, making it a bit of a bargain.

Read our full HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless review

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P
If you want a headset that offers that more premium, substantial build but – crucially – don’t want to pay premium prices for the privilege, this might be the headset for you. It’s made from sturdy metal – it feels robust without sacrificing comfort, while offering true spatial audio and hefty bass. The drawback? It’s only compatible with PC and PlayStation, so Xbox or handheld gamers will want to look elsewhere.

Read more in our full SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P review

How I tested the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless

  • Tested it over several days
  • Tried it out with a variety of devices and games
  • Assessed EQ modes and record mic quality

I tested the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless over the course of several days. First off, I tried the headset out with a range of games, including newer and older titles such as The Outer Worlds 2, Counter-Strike 2, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Complete Edition, and Two Point Museum. I also tried it on multiple platforms, including our Acer Predator Helios 300 gaming laptop, my Steam Deck, and my PlayStation 4.

To test out the headset’s features, I downloaded the Beyerdynamic app and played with its various settings. I also used it to test out the EQ and sound presets, comparing them to a neutral EQ for the recommended genres of game. Additionally, I tested out the microphone by recording myself talking while gaming, making sure to also test the mute function and how well it isolated my voice from background noise.

I have plenty of experience when it comes to gaming headsets. First off, I’ve been reviewing audio-related gadgets for well over five years and using them for much longer for both listening to audio and making music. Secondly, I’ve been an avid console and PC gamer for over a third of a century – which is a truly terrifying realization.

  • First reviewed: November 2025
  • Read more about how we test
I tested these officially licensed earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 – are they really worth buying?
11:00 pm | November 13, 2025

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: | Comments: Off

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2: one-minute review

The PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 are a simple yet effective way to enjoy handheld gaming sessions in seclusion. These buds are licensed by Nintendo and aim to deliver dynamic sound, ergonomic comfort, and clear mic quality. And they largely deliver on that, though there are some notable flaws to uncover.

For wired buds that typically cost $24.99 / £19.99 / AU$39, and regularly fall to a considerably lower cost, I wasn’t expecting all too much from the PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2. And although they don't do anything special sonically speaking, they still have all the fundamental talents required for solid-sounding in-game experiences.

For instance, they offer up clear dialogue quality – something all of the best gaming earbuds should do. When playing through the spectacular Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, speech-heavy scenes never sounded muffled or obscured, even when the game's imposing orchestral soundtrack entered the fray.

You're not going to experience beautifully separated vocals or a wide open soundstage, but for the price, you still get the clean sound quality required to enjoy the best Nintendo Switch 2 games or beautiful in-game soundtracks.

Person holding right bud of PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2

(Image credit: Future)

The convenient mic mute slider is very handy if you're making use of GameChat via Nintendo Switch Online. Simply flick it up and your pals won't be able to hear you whatsoever.

However, I would've liked the inbuilt mic to sound a bit better, as I could make out static in the background while using it. Don't get me wrong, my words were still easily discernible when performing a quality test – just don't expect above average mic performance.

Looks-wise these wired earbuds aren't all too flashy. They're black and red – much like the right Joy-Con 2 controller, and come with a handy carry case. The build quality of these buds is fairly average given that they're made of plastic, but that's fine considering their extremely budget-friendly cost. And in fairness, I still found them to be pretty comfortable, which isn't always the case for me when searching for the best wired earbuds.

So, at the end of it all, would I recommend the PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2? Well, that would depend. I’ve seen these drop as low as £11 in the UK, so if you’re on a tight budget, they’d give you decent overall audio with equally decent comfort, as well as a tidy carry case. However, there are some notable drawbacks, like a flawed mic and a basic build.

If you’ve got a bit more cash to play with, I’d perhaps check out some more premium wired earbuds, or even a headset from our Nintendo Switch 2 accessories guide. But for low-cost buds that get the job done, these Nintendo-licensed in-ears are still worth a look.

Person holding PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 beside Switch 2 console with Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake on display

(Image credit: Future)

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 review: price and release date

  • Ultra-budget list price of $24.99 / £19.99 / AU$39
  • And I've already spotted them going for even less
  • Launched in October 2025

These wired earbuds launched shortly after the Nintendo Switch 2 itself, and have a list price of $24.99 / £19.99 / AU$39. However, I've already spotted them on sale for less in some territories, dipping as low as £11 in the UK. It should be noted that any 3.5mm, USB-C, or Bluetooth earbuds should work fine with your console – it's just the inclusion of a mute mic slider that makes these ideal for GameChat use. PowerA’s wired buds are available in a single Black and Red design – the same color scheme as the right Joy-Con 2 controller.

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 review: specs

Drivers

8mm dynamic

Weight

0.7oz / 20g

Frequency range

20Hz-20kHz

Waterproof rating

Not stated

Connectivity

3.5mm

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 review: design and features

  • Simple yet fairly effective design
  • Convenient mic mute slider
  • Secure and relatively comfortable fit

Design-wise, these in-ears are basic. They’re black and red, which is on-brand for the Switch 2, and they have the console’s logo on the outside of each bud.

They’re made of plastic and, in honesty, feel pretty cheap – but then again, they are. You get a variety of different-sized ear tips to help find your ideal fit, as well as a drawstring bag to store the buds away – that’s a very nice inclusion considering their moderate price.

These earbuds are quite comfortable, although I did find they were a tad large in-ear. Still, I could keep them in for well over an hour without feeling fatigued, and they had a pretty secure fit – something that’s not always guaranteed with wired in-ears.

Thanks to their secure seal, you also get decent enough noise isolation – just don't expect the silence-inducing effects of active noise cancellation or the passive isolation that pricier foam ear tips provide.

The most significant feature on-board is the inbuilt mic and mute slider. This handy slider is what sets the buds apart from typical wired buds you may have laying around, and makes them ideal for GameChat use on Switch 2. The mic itself is functional but as you may expect at this price-point, nothing particularly special. More on that in the Performance section...

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 sitting on included carry case

(Image credit: Future)

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 review: performance

  • Decent audio with fairly clean dialogue
  • Mic performance could certainly be better
  • Solid overall quality given modest price-tag

Sonically speaking, I won’t pretend the PowerA Wired Earbuds are anything particularly special. But they get the basics right, with generally clear audio for private gaming sessions.

To find out if PowerA’s in-ears could compete with some of the best gaming earbuds best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories, I made sure to test them out with a variety of games. I started with Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, a title I’ve been absolutely glued to since its release.

This game is pretty dialogue-heavy, so I was glad to discover that speech was generally well-defined in the mix, ensuring I didn't need to rely on subtitles. When the grandiose orchestral soundtrack swooped through the backdrop, voices still remained clear – sure, it wasn’t as if they were elegantly separated out and thrust to the fore, but that’s something I’d expect from more premium buds.

I wanted to see how they’d cope with a more chaotic Nintendo Switch 2 title, so I switched over to Mario Kart World, and again, I was pretty satisfied with the audio on offer. In Free Roam mode, the hum of my vehicle’s engine was replicated with solid low-end power, and the high-pitched grind of my wheels while drifting didn’t sound tinny or uncontrolled.

Treble could get edgy at top volumes – something I also realized when listening to Phendrana Drifts on the Nintendo Music app. But if you’re listening at medium loudness or lower, that shouldn’t be all too apparent. More generally, soundtracks come through nicely using PowerA’s buds – the jazzy tunes featured in Mario Kart World were always enjoyable, with expressive sax in the mid-range sounding clean and never getting smothered by the fairly impactful bass.

Even if you’re not going to be wowed by a wide soundstage or incredible separation, PowerA’s wired buds perform well enough on the audio front. If you’re looking for a more premium listening experience or want exceptional wired earbuds for music, though, I’d suggest heading over to our best wired earbuds guide instead.

But how about mic performance? Well, this is where things get a little shaky. I used the Test Microphone function on my Switch 2, which allows you to make a brief recording, and the results were about as good as I’d expected. My voice was relatively clear, and every word was discernible. However, there was some noticeable sibilance, and there was obvious static in the background.

Don’t get me wrong: these won’t make you sound like you’re underwater as some cheap buds do, but mic quality is just acceptable. One benefit, though, is that there’s an in-line controller with a slider to disable or enable the mic, which is handy if you need to swiftly silence yourself while using GameChat.

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 beside Switch 2 console with Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake on display

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

In-line mic could be better, but they offer a useful mute slider and decent noise isolation.

3/5

Sound quality

Imperfect but generally clean audio for clear dialogue, footsteps, and sound effects.

3.5/5

Design

Basic look, relatively comfortable in-ear feel, convenient carry pouch.

3.5/5

Value

Low price, solid overall quality.

4/5

Buy them if...

You want good value buds for solo gaming sessions
If you want a steady pair of wired earbuds for private gaming sessions, these will certainly do the trick. Even though they do nothing special, you get generally clear audio and a secure in-ear fit, so you can enjoy in-game audio without splashing very much cash at all. The built-in mic and carry pouch also ensure you get plenty of bang for your buck.

You’re looking for a lightweight option to bring on the go
These earbuds only weigh 0.7oz / 20g, and can easily be stored away in the included carry pouch. I’ve kept that pouch in the official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case when I’ve been out and about lately, and they’re a good backup option if my Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones run out of battery life on the go.

Don't buy them if...

You’re expecting great mic quality
Although my voice sounded clear while using the in-line mic here, it was certainly flawed. You’ll notice some sibilance and background static, so for anyone seeking out top-class mic quality, you’ll need to seek a little more. I’d recommend the SteelSeries Tusq gaming headset, which we found to offer excellent mic quality.

You want top-tier audio
As you’d expect for less than $25 / £20 / AU$40, you’re not getting particularly impressive sound quality from PowerA’s Switch 2 earbuds. They supply clear overall sound, but you won’t get that deft separation, wide soundstage, or ultra-detailed listen that more talented models can supply.

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2: also consider

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2

Skullcandy Set USB-C

Turtle Beach Battle Buds

Price

$24.99 / £19.99 / AU$39

$31.99 / £29.99 (about AU$50)

$30 / £25 / AU$45

Drivers

8mm dynamic

9mm dynamic

10mm dynamic

Weight

20g

15g

23g

Frequency range

20Hz-20kHz

20Hz-20kHz

20Hz-20kHz

Waterproof rating

Not stated

IPX4

Not stated

Connectivity

3.5mm

USB-C

3.5mm

Skullcandy Set USB-C
These Skullcandy buds have a spot in our best wired earbuds buying guide thanks to their admirable audio output, comfortable in-ear fit, and sleek look. Their lack of volume controls shouldn’t matter for Switch 2 usage, and their USB-C connectivity means they can easily be used with most modern smartphones as well as your console.

Read our full Skullcandy Set USB-C review.

Turtle Beach Battle Buds
Over in our guide to the best gaming earbuds, the Turtle Beach Battle Buds hold the title of best budget choice. They’ve got a handy detachable mic, decent sound quality, and of course, are satisfyingly cheap.

Read our full Turtle Beach Battle Buds review.

How I tested the PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2

Person inserting PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 into Switch 2 console with Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake on display

(Image credit: Future)
  • Tested for one week
  • Used in the office, while out and about, and at home
  • Tried with Switch 2 games and Nintendo Music app

I tested the PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 over a week-long period, taking them out for on-the-go play, as well as using them on lunch breaks at the office, and when working from home.

To assess performance, I made sure to use them with a range of Switch 2 games, including Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake and Mario Kart World. It also felt fitting to use them with the Nintendo Music app and spin a few classic soundtracks. When using the in-line mic, I ensured that I performed a test using the Switch 2’s built-in testing software.

More generally, I’ve been a Switch 2 owner from launch, and I’ve reviewed tons of gadgets here at TechRadar, where I’ve tested tons of audio gear and gaming accessories. I’ve reviewed everything from top-tier wired earbuds like the Sennheiser IE 600 through to cheap models like the JBL Tune 310C. And I’ve also tested a range of Nintendo Switch 2 cases, cameras, screen protectors, and software.

  • First reviewed: November 2025
  • Read more about how we test
I tested these officially licensed earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 – are they really worth buying?
11:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: | Comments: Off

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2: one-minute review

The PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 are a simple yet effective way to enjoy handheld gaming sessions in seclusion. These buds are licensed by Nintendo and aim to deliver dynamic sound, ergonomic comfort, and clear mic quality. And they largely deliver on that, though there are some notable flaws to uncover.

For wired buds that typically cost $24.99 / £19.99 / AU$39, and regularly fall to a considerably lower cost, I wasn’t expecting all too much from the PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2. And although they don't do anything special sonically speaking, they still have all the fundamental talents required for solid-sounding in-game experiences.

For instance, they offer up clear dialogue quality – something all of the best gaming earbuds should do. When playing through the spectacular Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, speech-heavy scenes never sounded muffled or obscured, even when the game's imposing orchestral soundtrack entered the fray.

You're not going to experience beautifully separated vocals or a wide open soundstage, but for the price, you still get the clean sound quality required to enjoy the best Nintendo Switch 2 games or beautiful in-game soundtracks.

Person holding right bud of PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2

(Image credit: Future)

The convenient mic mute slider is very handy if you're making use of GameChat via Nintendo Switch Online. Simply flick it up and your pals won't be able to hear you whatsoever.

However, I would've liked the inbuilt mic to sound a bit better, as I could make out static in the background while using it. Don't get me wrong, my words were still easily discernible when performing a quality test – just don't expect above average mic performance.

Looks-wise these wired earbuds aren't all too flashy. They're black and red – much like the right Joy-Con 2 controller, and come with a handy carry case. The build quality of these buds is fairly average given that they're made of plastic, but that's fine considering their extremely budget-friendly cost. And in fairness, I still found them to be pretty comfortable, which isn't always the case for me when searching for the best wired earbuds.

So, at the end of it all, would I recommend the PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2? Well, that would depend. I’ve seen these drop as low as £11 in the UK, so if you’re on a tight budget, they’d give you decent overall audio with equally decent comfort, as well as a tidy carry case. However, there are some notable drawbacks, like a flawed mic and a basic build.

If you’ve got a bit more cash to play with, I’d perhaps check out some more premium wired earbuds, or even a headset from our Nintendo Switch 2 accessories guide. But for low-cost buds that get the job done, these Nintendo-licensed in-ears are still worth a look.

Person holding PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 beside Switch 2 console with Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake on display

(Image credit: Future)

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 review: price and release date

  • Ultra-budget list price of $24.99 / £19.99 / AU$39
  • And I've already spotted them going for even less
  • Launched in October 2025

These wired earbuds launched shortly after the Nintendo Switch 2 itself, and have a list price of $24.99 / £19.99 / AU$39. However, I've already spotted them on sale for less in some territories, dipping as low as £11 in the UK. It should be noted that any 3.5mm, USB-C, or Bluetooth earbuds should work fine with your console – it's just the inclusion of a mute mic slider that makes these ideal for GameChat use. PowerA’s wired buds are available in a single Black and Red design – the same color scheme as the right Joy-Con 2 controller.

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 review: specs

Drivers

8mm dynamic

Weight

0.7oz / 20g

Frequency range

20Hz-20kHz

Waterproof rating

Not stated

Connectivity

3.5mm

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 review: design and features

  • Simple yet fairly effective design
  • Convenient mic mute slider
  • Secure and relatively comfortable fit

Design-wise, these in-ears are basic. They’re black and red, which is on-brand for the Switch 2, and they have the console’s logo on the outside of each bud.

They’re made of plastic and, in honesty, feel pretty cheap – but then again, they are. You get a variety of different-sized ear tips to help find your ideal fit, as well as a drawstring bag to store the buds away – that’s a very nice inclusion considering their moderate price.

These earbuds are quite comfortable, although I did find they were a tad large in-ear. Still, I could keep them in for well over an hour without feeling fatigued, and they had a pretty secure fit – something that’s not always guaranteed with wired in-ears.

Thanks to their secure seal, you also get decent enough noise isolation – just don't expect the silence-inducing effects of active noise cancellation or the passive isolation that pricier foam ear tips provide.

The most significant feature on-board is the inbuilt mic and mute slider. This handy slider is what sets the buds apart from typical wired buds you may have laying around, and makes them ideal for GameChat use on Switch 2. The mic itself is functional but as you may expect at this price-point, nothing particularly special. More on that in the Performance section...

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 sitting on included carry case

(Image credit: Future)

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 review: performance

  • Decent audio with fairly clean dialogue
  • Mic performance could certainly be better
  • Solid overall quality given modest price-tag

Sonically speaking, I won’t pretend the PowerA Wired Earbuds are anything particularly special. But they get the basics right, with generally clear audio for private gaming sessions.

To find out if PowerA’s in-ears could compete with some of the best gaming earbuds best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories, I made sure to test them out with a variety of games. I started with Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, a title I’ve been absolutely glued to since its release.

This game is pretty dialogue-heavy, so I was glad to discover that speech was generally well-defined in the mix, ensuring I didn't need to rely on subtitles. When the grandiose orchestral soundtrack swooped through the backdrop, voices still remained clear – sure, it wasn’t as if they were elegantly separated out and thrust to the fore, but that’s something I’d expect from more premium buds.

I wanted to see how they’d cope with a more chaotic Nintendo Switch 2 title, so I switched over to Mario Kart World, and again, I was pretty satisfied with the audio on offer. In Free Roam mode, the hum of my vehicle’s engine was replicated with solid low-end power, and the high-pitched grind of my wheels while drifting didn’t sound tinny or uncontrolled.

Treble could get edgy at top volumes – something I also realized when listening to Phendrana Drifts on the Nintendo Music app. But if you’re listening at medium loudness or lower, that shouldn’t be all too apparent. More generally, soundtracks come through nicely using PowerA’s buds – the jazzy tunes featured in Mario Kart World were always enjoyable, with expressive sax in the mid-range sounding clean and never getting smothered by the fairly impactful bass.

Even if you’re not going to be wowed by a wide soundstage or incredible separation, PowerA’s wired buds perform well enough on the audio front. If you’re looking for a more premium listening experience or want exceptional wired earbuds for music, though, I’d suggest heading over to our best wired earbuds guide instead.

But how about mic performance? Well, this is where things get a little shaky. I used the Test Microphone function on my Switch 2, which allows you to make a brief recording, and the results were about as good as I’d expected. My voice was relatively clear, and every word was discernible. However, there was some noticeable sibilance, and there was obvious static in the background.

Don’t get me wrong: these won’t make you sound like you’re underwater as some cheap buds do, but mic quality is just acceptable. One benefit, though, is that there’s an in-line controller with a slider to disable or enable the mic, which is handy if you need to swiftly silence yourself while using GameChat.

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 beside Switch 2 console with Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake on display

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

In-line mic could be better, but they offer a useful mute slider and decent noise isolation.

3/5

Sound quality

Imperfect but generally clean audio for clear dialogue, footsteps, and sound effects.

3.5/5

Design

Basic look, relatively comfortable in-ear feel, convenient carry pouch.

3.5/5

Value

Low price, solid overall quality.

4/5

Buy them if...

You want good value buds for solo gaming sessions
If you want a steady pair of wired earbuds for private gaming sessions, these will certainly do the trick. Even though they do nothing special, you get generally clear audio and a secure in-ear fit, so you can enjoy in-game audio without splashing very much cash at all. The built-in mic and carry pouch also ensure you get plenty of bang for your buck.

You’re looking for a lightweight option to bring on the go
These earbuds only weigh 0.7oz / 20g, and can easily be stored away in the included carry pouch. I’ve kept that pouch in the official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case when I’ve been out and about lately, and they’re a good backup option if my Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones run out of battery life on the go.

Don't buy them if...

You’re expecting great mic quality
Although my voice sounded clear while using the in-line mic here, it was certainly flawed. You’ll notice some sibilance and background static, so for anyone seeking out top-class mic quality, you’ll need to seek a little more. I’d recommend the SteelSeries Tusq gaming headset, which we found to offer excellent mic quality.

You want top-tier audio
As you’d expect for less than $25 / £20 / AU$40, you’re not getting particularly impressive sound quality from PowerA’s Switch 2 earbuds. They supply clear overall sound, but you won’t get that deft separation, wide soundstage, or ultra-detailed listen that more talented models can supply.

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2: also consider

PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2

Skullcandy Set USB-C

Turtle Beach Battle Buds

Price

$24.99 / £19.99 / AU$39

$31.99 / £29.99 (about AU$50)

$30 / £25 / AU$45

Drivers

8mm dynamic

9mm dynamic

10mm dynamic

Weight

20g

15g

23g

Frequency range

20Hz-20kHz

20Hz-20kHz

20Hz-20kHz

Waterproof rating

Not stated

IPX4

Not stated

Connectivity

3.5mm

USB-C

3.5mm

Skullcandy Set USB-C
These Skullcandy buds have a spot in our best wired earbuds buying guide thanks to their admirable audio output, comfortable in-ear fit, and sleek look. Their lack of volume controls shouldn’t matter for Switch 2 usage, and their USB-C connectivity means they can easily be used with most modern smartphones as well as your console.

Read our full Skullcandy Set USB-C review.

Turtle Beach Battle Buds
Over in our guide to the best gaming earbuds, the Turtle Beach Battle Buds hold the title of best budget choice. They’ve got a handy detachable mic, decent sound quality, and of course, are satisfyingly cheap.

Read our full Turtle Beach Battle Buds review.

How I tested the PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2

Person inserting PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 into Switch 2 console with Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake on display

(Image credit: Future)
  • Tested for one week
  • Used in the office, while out and about, and at home
  • Tried with Switch 2 games and Nintendo Music app

I tested the PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 over a week-long period, taking them out for on-the-go play, as well as using them on lunch breaks at the office, and when working from home.

To assess performance, I made sure to use them with a range of Switch 2 games, including Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake and Mario Kart World. It also felt fitting to use them with the Nintendo Music app and spin a few classic soundtracks. When using the in-line mic, I ensured that I performed a test using the Switch 2’s built-in testing software.

More generally, I’ve been a Switch 2 owner from launch, and I’ve reviewed tons of gadgets here at TechRadar, where I’ve tested tons of audio gear and gaming accessories. I’ve reviewed everything from top-tier wired earbuds like the Sennheiser IE 600 through to cheap models like the JBL Tune 310C. And I’ve also tested a range of Nintendo Switch 2 cases, cameras, screen protectors, and software.

  • First reviewed: November 2025
  • Read more about how we test
I tested the official Nintendo Switch 2 carry case, and it’s a slim and stylish option well worth considering
4:00 am | November 10, 2025

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Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector: review

Want to take your beloved Nintendo Switch 2 on the road without the fear of damage and destruction? Well, the official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector could be the ideal fit for you.

This package provides you with a case that can hold your Switch 2 console (including the Joy-Con 2 controllers), six game cartridges, and some smaller accessories, like Joy-Con straps, for example. Of course, you also get a screen protector thrown in for good measure – more on that later.

I want to start by discussing the case, which I found to be very solid indeed. It’s well finished, with the Switch 2 logo front and center, and aptly, it has red and blue colored handles on the two zips, which feel smooth and easy to do up. The case also has a pleasantly durable feel to it, and when dropping it a couple of times and giving it a good scratching, I couldn’t see even a spec of wear – that’s the sort of quality I’d expect from the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories.

Inside, there are three compartments: one on each side of the case to hold the console, and another that can hold small accessories, with room for six cartridges above. Could there be a few more game card slots? Yes, but personally, six physical slots will be enough for me if I’m taking a short trip – there’s enough room for some party games like Mario Kart World and Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV, as well as a few single-player adventures.

Person holding the official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case

(Image credit: Future)

The amount of storage in that third compartment is limited – you’re not gonna get your dock in here. I could fit a pair of earbuds or Joy-Con straps without issue, but if you’re hoping to store an item like a USB camera or the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, you might want to check out a larger option. One upside here is that the case remains slim and tight to the console, meaning you can easily slot it in a bag without worrying about it being too bulky.

I did generally really like this case, and I might use it instead of my official Nintendo Switch 2 All-in-One Carry Case if I'm not planning to play docked. But one thing I did realize is that it's very prone to fingerprints. Even when shooting the photos you see in this guide, I had to wipe it down a few times – it’s a small thing, but worth flagging.

As I mentioned earlier, this package also includes a screen protector, but I was feeling much less positive about this. You’ll have to temper your expectations here – after all, you’re not getting a tempered glass screen protector! Instead, it’s an anti-scratch piece of film, which is hardly the most protective option on the market.

You don’t get a frame to help apply the screen protector – you have to fit it freehand. But even though I lined it up pretty nicely, I still ran into some issues, like excessive air bubbles, which were a struggle to squeeze out. I put it through the same testing process as the Genki Aegis Shield, for example. And although my console got out unscathed, I would still recommend getting a tempered glass option for better protection and peace of mind.

Person applying screen protector from the Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector package

(Image credit: Future)

Ultimately, I’m going to treat the screen protector more as an extra. The focus for me is on the case, which I consider to be good value, especially for UK and Aussie buyers who are spending £20.99 / AU$39.95 at most to get this model – I’ve already seen it on sale for less. In the US, availability appears to be inconsistent, and the proportionally higher $39.99 price tag is a bit of a shame.

Still, you’re getting a slim, well-finished, and durable case that’s ideal for taking on the go. And in the end, I think Nintendo's official case remains well worth considering.

Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector review: price & specs

Price

$39.99 / £20.99 / AU$39.95

Dimensions

13.4 x 5.6 x 1.7in / 340 x 142 x 42mm

Weight

310g

Number of game card slots

6

Compartments

3

Handle

No

Color

Black

Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case open showing Switch 2 console on the home menu

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Design

Sleek look with nice finish and durable build, but a little prone to fingerprints.

4/5

Storage

Could have some more game card slots, but for a slim case stores console and Joy-Con 2s effectively.

4/5

Value

A tad pricey in the US, but solid durability, good looks, and decent storage in this size class.

4/5

Buy it if…

You want a lightweight Switch 2 case
If you don’t need a case that’s big enough to fit your dock, and you just need a lightweight option, then this model could be perfect for you. It's slim, stylish, and can easily slot into a bag for on-the-go play.

You want something with dashing looks
A few of the third-party options we’ve tested here at TechRadar aren’t the prettiest, but personally, I’m a fan of how Nintendo’s official carrying case looks. The red and blue zip handles playfully contrast the case’s textured black exterior, and it's got a slightly curved look that’s very easy on the eye.

Don’t buy it if…

You want a great screen protector
Sure, the screen protector here is functional, and it's a decent extra considering the moderate pricing of this package. But it's not the most durable protective layer on the market, and fitting it freehand isn’t ideal. I’d instead recommend checking out the DBrand Prism 2.0 for Nintendo Switch 2 or the Belkin Tempered Glass Anti-Reflective Screen Protector separately.

You need everything to play in TV mode
If you need a case that can fit all the gear for TV mode play, this ain’t it. Instead, I’d recommend picking up the official Nintendo Switch 2 All-in-One Carry Case, which can fit your dock, cables, console, a Pro Controller, and more with ease.

Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector review: also consider

Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case
This one comes at quite the cost, but if you need one case for everything Switch 2, it doesn't get a whole lot better. With seven compartments custom-built for your dock, controllers, console, and more, you'll have oodles of space to play with. This case is pretty hardy too, and even comes with a handle for improved portability. It's the model I use the most, and if you like to play in TV mode, it will suit you to a T.

Read our full Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case review.

Nacon Protection Case XL for Nintendo Switch 2
OK, it isn't being sold in the United States just yet, but if the Nacon Protection Case XL is available in your region, I highly recommend it. It's got enough room to house all the gear for TV mode play, but it’s only a little more expensive than this slim model. Great value, great durability, and lots of storage – what more could you want?

Read our full Nacon Protection Case XL for Nintendo Switch 2 review.

How I tested the Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector

Person closing the Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case

(Image credit: Future)
  • Tested over the course of multiple days
  • Took with me on public transport and to the office
  • Trialled by a Nintendo Switch 2 owner and life-long gamer

I tested the Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector over the course of a few days. I packed it with my Nintendo Switch 2 console, Joy-Con 2 controllers, and a charging cable, and it held out well, as expected.

In order to judge the case’s durability, I tried dropping it from a decent distance, and also gave the exterior a scratch. I then checked for any wear and tear after the testing period came to a close. Where appropriate, I compared this case to rivals on aspects like sturdiness and storage space.

I’m a Switch 2 owner, a lifelong gamer, and an experienced tech reviewer with plenty of experience with Switch 2 accessories. Since grabbing my Switch 2 at launch, I’ve trialled a range of products, including cases like the Nacon Protection Case XL for Nintendo Switch 2, screen protectors such as the DBrand Prism 2.0, and cameras, like the Hori Piranha Plant Camera for Nintendo Switch 2.

  • Read more about how we test
  • First reviewed: November 2025
I tested the official Nintendo Switch 2 carry case, and it’s a slim and stylish option well worth considering
4:00 am |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector: review

Want to take your beloved Nintendo Switch 2 on the road without the fear of damage and destruction? Well, the official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector could be the ideal fit for you.

This package provides you with a case that can hold your Switch 2 console (including the Joy-Con 2 controllers), six game cartridges, and some smaller accessories, like Joy-Con straps, for example. Of course, you also get a screen protector thrown in for good measure – more on that later.

I want to start by discussing the case, which I found to be very solid indeed. It’s well finished, with the Switch 2 logo front and center, and aptly, it has red and blue colored handles on the two zips, which feel smooth and easy to do up. The case also has a pleasantly durable feel to it, and when dropping it a couple of times and giving it a good scratching, I couldn’t see even a spec of wear – that’s the sort of quality I’d expect from the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories.

Inside, there are three compartments: one on each side of the case to hold the console, and another that can hold small accessories, with room for six cartridges above. Could there be a few more game card slots? Yes, but personally, six physical slots will be enough for me if I’m taking a short trip – there’s enough room for some party games like Mario Kart World and Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV, as well as a few single-player adventures.

Person holding the official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case

(Image credit: Future)

The amount of storage in that third compartment is limited – you’re not gonna get your dock in here. I could fit a pair of earbuds or Joy-Con straps without issue, but if you’re hoping to store an item like a USB camera or the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, you might want to check out a larger option. One upside here is that the case remains slim and tight to the console, meaning you can easily slot it in a bag without worrying about it being too bulky.

I did generally really like this case, and I might use it instead of my official Nintendo Switch 2 All-in-One Carry Case if I'm not planning to play docked. But one thing I did realize is that it's very prone to fingerprints. Even when shooting the photos you see in this guide, I had to wipe it down a few times – it’s a small thing, but worth flagging.

As I mentioned earlier, this package also includes a screen protector, but I was feeling much less positive about this. You’ll have to temper your expectations here – after all, you’re not getting a tempered glass screen protector! Instead, it’s an anti-scratch piece of film, which is hardly the most protective option on the market.

You don’t get a frame to help apply the screen protector – you have to fit it freehand. But even though I lined it up pretty nicely, I still ran into some issues, like excessive air bubbles, which were a struggle to squeeze out. I put it through the same testing process as the Genki Aegis Shield, for example. And although my console got out unscathed, I would still recommend getting a tempered glass option for better protection and peace of mind.

Person applying screen protector from the Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector package

(Image credit: Future)

Ultimately, I’m going to treat the screen protector more as an extra. The focus for me is on the case, which I consider to be good value, especially for UK and Aussie buyers who are spending £20.99 / AU$39.95 at most to get this model – I’ve already seen it on sale for less. In the US, availability appears to be inconsistent, and the proportionally higher $39.99 price tag is a bit of a shame.

Still, you’re getting a slim, well-finished, and durable case that’s ideal for taking on the go. And in the end, I think Nintendo's official case remains well worth considering.

Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector review: price & specs

Price

$39.99 / £20.99 / AU$39.95

Dimensions

13.4 x 5.6 x 1.7in / 340 x 142 x 42mm

Weight

310g

Number of game card slots

6

Compartments

3

Handle

No

Color

Black

Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case open showing Switch 2 console on the home menu

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Design

Sleek look with nice finish and durable build, but a little prone to fingerprints.

4/5

Storage

Could have some more game card slots, but for a slim case stores console and Joy-Con 2s effectively.

4/5

Value

A tad pricey in the US, but solid durability, good looks, and decent storage in this size class.

4/5

Buy it if…

You want a lightweight Switch 2 case
If you don’t need a case that’s big enough to fit your dock, and you just need a lightweight option, then this model could be perfect for you. It's slim, stylish, and can easily slot into a bag for on-the-go play.

You want something with dashing looks
A few of the third-party options we’ve tested here at TechRadar aren’t the prettiest, but personally, I’m a fan of how Nintendo’s official carrying case looks. The red and blue zip handles playfully contrast the case’s textured black exterior, and it's got a slightly curved look that’s very easy on the eye.

Don’t buy it if…

You want a great screen protector
Sure, the screen protector here is functional, and it's a decent extra considering the moderate pricing of this package. But it's not the most durable protective layer on the market, and fitting it freehand isn’t ideal. I’d instead recommend checking out the DBrand Prism 2.0 for Nintendo Switch 2 or the Belkin Tempered Glass Anti-Reflective Screen Protector separately.

You need everything to play in TV mode
If you need a case that can fit all the gear for TV mode play, this ain’t it. Instead, I’d recommend picking up the official Nintendo Switch 2 All-in-One Carry Case, which can fit your dock, cables, console, a Pro Controller, and more with ease.

Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector review: also consider

Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case
This one comes at quite the cost, but if you need one case for everything Switch 2, it doesn't get a whole lot better. With seven compartments custom-built for your dock, controllers, console, and more, you'll have oodles of space to play with. This case is pretty hardy too, and even comes with a handle for improved portability. It's the model I use the most, and if you like to play in TV mode, it will suit you to a T.

Read our full Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case review.

Nacon Protection Case XL for Nintendo Switch 2
OK, it isn't being sold in the United States just yet, but if the Nacon Protection Case XL is available in your region, I highly recommend it. It's got enough room to house all the gear for TV mode play, but it’s only a little more expensive than this slim model. Great value, great durability, and lots of storage – what more could you want?

Read our full Nacon Protection Case XL for Nintendo Switch 2 review.

How I tested the Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector

Person closing the Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case

(Image credit: Future)
  • Tested over the course of multiple days
  • Took with me on public transport and to the office
  • Trialled by a Nintendo Switch 2 owner and life-long gamer

I tested the Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector over the course of a few days. I packed it with my Nintendo Switch 2 console, Joy-Con 2 controllers, and a charging cable, and it held out well, as expected.

In order to judge the case’s durability, I tried dropping it from a decent distance, and also gave the exterior a scratch. I then checked for any wear and tear after the testing period came to a close. Where appropriate, I compared this case to rivals on aspects like sturdiness and storage space.

I’m a Switch 2 owner, a lifelong gamer, and an experienced tech reviewer with plenty of experience with Switch 2 accessories. Since grabbing my Switch 2 at launch, I’ve trialled a range of products, including cases like the Nacon Protection Case XL for Nintendo Switch 2, screen protectors such as the DBrand Prism 2.0, and cameras, like the Hori Piranha Plant Camera for Nintendo Switch 2.

  • Read more about how we test
  • First reviewed: November 2025
I review premium headphones for a living – even I was surprised how great this budget gaming headset sounds
7:00 pm | October 19, 2025

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Comments: Off

Turtle Beach Atlas 200: two-minute review

The Turtle Beach Atlas 200 is a wired gaming headset. Available for $69.99 / £59.99 for the PC version and $59.99 / £49.99 for the PS5 and multiplatform versions, it sits firmly at the affordable end of the market. But don’t let the cheap price fool you: this is a surprisingly capable headset.

I’ll admit that the multiplatform version I tested here is not the most feature-packed headset I’ve ever gotten my hands on. While its 3.5mm jack means you’ll enjoy lossless audio, it can’t offer the hi-res audio its PC-focused stablemate can. Nor does it offer selectable sound profiles, EQ settings, or driver software. It’s an uncomplicated product, in every sense of the word.

When I stuck it on my head, though, any concerns I had about its feature set melted away. That’s because the sound it’s capable of happily rivals any of the best wired gaming headsets at this price range. Trying it out with Hades II, I was impressed with how clear it was, capturing the swish and slash of combat perfectly. Meanwhile, the crack of my rifle while taking out opponents on Counter-Strike 2 felt deeply convincing with plenty of low-end heft.

The Atlas 200’s soundstage also feels well apportioned – the stereo field feels nice and broad, while the separation of different sounds helps sound effects stand clear from atmospheric noise and background music. The only real criticism I have here is around the headset’s claimed spatial audio: while its audio definitely feels immersive, there isn’t quite the same height and rear-firing effects you’ll get from true Dolby Atmos style headphones. However, I imagine the immersive PC Audio enhancements offered by the PC version’s USB Audio Adapter go some way toward rectifying this.

And the Atlas 200’s foldaway mic offers yet more pluses to help compensate for this. Not only is it easy to flip away, but during my testing, this automatically muted any sound reaching our testing laptop. The mic is also crystal clear – thanks to its effective noise gate, I found that clacking keys and even the music I was listening to was very thoroughly quashed, making it far easier for those you’re gaming with to hear your every oath and utterance.

This is only the start of Turtle Beach’s smart design with this headset. Its plush memory foam ear cups and floating headband make it super comfortable to wear, even over longer periods. I often find the clamping force of many cheaper headphones makes my ears ache after not too long, but the Atlas 200 didn’t crush my cartilage.

There is one small misstep for me, though. Given that the headset’s height is adjusted by moving a velcroed strap on the inside of the headband, it’s impossible to adjust its height on the fly. This isn’t helped by the fact that the Atlas 200 seems to be designed with the larger head in mind – while my swollen dome happily fit it on every setting, colleagues of mine with more diminutive noggins did find the earcups sat quite low on even the tightest setting.

Despite this, though, it’s hard for me to argue that the Turtle Beach Atlas 200 is anything but an accomplished budget gaming headset. It sounds very credible for the price, and it’s all kinds of comfortable – at least if you have a capacious cranium. Fundamentally, if you’re looking to only spend around $50 / £50 on a gaming headset, I’d happily urge you to snap it up.

The Turtle Beach Atlas 200 sat on top of a cylinder, with the mic folded up, in front of a pink background.

(Image credit: Future)

Turtle Beach Atlas 200 review: price & availability

  • Launched on September 12, 2025
  • List price: PC – $69.99 / £59.99; PS5 and multiplatform – $59.99 / £49.99

Released on September 12, 2025, the Turtle Beach Atlas 200 is available now. The price you’ll pay is based on which platform you’re buying for: the PC version has a list price of $69.99 / £59.99, while the PS5 and multiplatform versions both have a list price of $59.99 / £49.99. Each version has slightly different specs, so bear in mind everything I’ve said in this review pertains to the multiplatform version.

In terms of additional options, the Atlas 200 PC and multiplatform versions only come in black. However, the PlayStation 5 offers black or white colorways – naturally, the latter is an excellent choice if you’re keen for your console to match your headset.

Turtle Beach Atlas 200 review: specs

Price

$59.99 / £49.99

Weight

9.9oz / 280g

Compatibility

Any device with a 3.5mm jack

Connection type

Wired (3.5mm)

Battery life

N/A

Features

Flip-to-mute mic with noise reduction

Software

N/A

A closeup of the Turtle Beach Atlas 200's earcup, volume control dial and 3.5mm cable.

(Image credit: Future)

Turtle Beach Atlas 200 review: design and features

  • Supremely comfortable
  • Height adjustment not well designed
  • PC-exclusive version offers far more features

Slipping on the Turtle Beach Atlas 200 for the first time, I was pretty impressed with its build quality. Despite being pretty affordable as gaming headsets go, they’re comfortably, even luxuriously, made. A featherlight 9.9oz / 280g build, floating headband, and memory foam ear cushions meant that they were comfortable even during epic gaming sessions – I often find cheaper headphones can make my ear cartilage ache after an hour or so, but these never outstayed their welcome.

Turtle Beach also claims that their ProSpecs technology means they offer ‘glasses-friendly’ comfort. Despite not being a specs-wearer myself, I asked my colleague Nikita Achanta from Tom’s Guide’s reviews team to give them a go, and she found them perfectly comfortable even with glasses.

One element of their design I find less persuasive, though, is how you adjust the height of that floating headband. As you need to unstick, adjust, then restick the velcro straps on the headset’s inside, it’s basically impossible to change their height while you’re wearing them, meaning I often had to use trial and error to get the right setting.

The headset’s height range is also not great – you can adjust its height by an inch / 2.5cm, max. Exercising some radical self-awareness here, I have a pretty big head, yet the Atlas 200’s entire height span seems to fit me pretty comfortably. This made me suspect that if you’ve got a smaller nut than I, you may struggle to find a cosy fit. And, indeed, when I asked Cesci Angell, my littler-noodled colleague, how she found them, she remarked they did sit a little low for her liking.

A closeup of the Turtle Beach Atlas 200's floating headband and adjustment mechanism.

(Image credit: Future)

Fortunately, Turtle Beach doesn’t make this mistake elsewhere. The Atlas 200’s foldaway mic, for example, is simple to adjust, clicking firmly into place in three positions – up, out, and halfway between – with a satisfying clonk. It’s also poseable, making it easier to curve it to sit in the perfect position in front of your mouth when it is in use.

When it comes to features, the Turtle Beach Atlas 200 is uncomplicated to the point of being almost no-frills. Its chunky 50mm Nanoclear drivers offer an expansive frequency range of 20Hz - 20kHz and are optimized for spatial audio. Meanwhile, it offers no wireless connectivity, although its wired 3.5mm cable means you can enjoy lossless quality audio and can hook it up to any gaming device.

But that’s largely your lot: unlike its platform-exclusive PC version, the multiplatform version doesn’t offer high-fidelity audio, sound profiles, or driver software for tweaking settings. And on-device controls are limited to a single volume dial, which does at least offer granular control over the loudness of your game audio.

  • Design & features score: 4 / 5

A closeup of the inside of Turtle Beach Atlas 200's earcup.

(Image credit: Future)

Turtle Beach Atlas 200 review: performance

  • Expressive audio and wide soundstage
  • Mic does great job of isolating voice
  • Spatial audio not that convincing

But no matter how comfortably a headset is designed or how fully featured it is, that’s all irrelevant if it doesn’t have the aural grit to back it up. So does the Turtle Beach Atlas 200 deliver the goods?

At first, I wasn’t entirely sure. Firing up Hades II, I was impressed with how the wind noises surrounding me were crisp and immediate without being overly bright. Meanwhile, the mids were deftly handled, rendering the background music competently while allowing the slashes and impact of combat to cut through. But there was one element I was unsure of: bass, with it sounding decent but not necessarily booming like that of the Corsair HS55 Stereo.

That is, until I dived into Counter-Strike 2. Not only was the whizzing of the bullets rendered by the treble, but the heft of the low end ensured the combat I was plunged into felt sufficiently visceral. Every time I popped off a headshot, the boom of the sniper rifle in my hands made it feel every bit the instrument of death it should be.

Stereo separation is also impressive on the Atlas 200. During the opening titles of Clair Obscure: Expedition 33, I felt like I was submerged right in the middle of the soundtrack, with the piano sitting slightly to the left, beautifully textured strings to my right, and the vocals right down the middle. Once I’d gotten into the game, this persisted, with the cranking of mills around me in the opening moments perfectly positioned in the space.

A closeup of the Turtle Beach Atlas 200's foldaway mic.

(Image credit: Future)

Possibly the only thing I’d question about the Atlas 200’s performance is its ‘optimized for 3D audio’ claims. Yes, elements are well separated, but I’ve plenty of experience testing some of the best headphones for spatial audio, and I did not get the same sense of height or rear-firing audio that you can get from the Epos H3 wired headset, for example. Triangulating would-be assassins in Counter-Strike 2 often took a good half a second of wheeling around, so I would moderate your expectations of how immersive this headset actually is.

Fortunately, that foldaway mic did not disappoint. I tested it out by recording audio while playing some games, and it works perfectly, cutting out all registered noise the second I folded it away, making it great when you need moments of privacy. On top of that, its noise gate works well in minimizing background sounds – even while typing, I couldn’t really discern any of the clack of the keys in my recording.

Keen as ever to try to push things to breaking point, I even tried cranking out some drum & bass while testing, but the Turtle Beach was wise to my tricks. There was naturally a little pump of some trebly beats in the background that coincided with the syllables I spoke, but the gate kept things deathly silent in between, doing an impressive job of maintaining the clarity of my words.

  • Performance score: 4 / 5

A hand holds the Turtle Beach Atlas 200 in front of a pink background.

(Image credit: Future)

Turtle Beach Atlas 200 review: value

All in all, I was seriously impressed with how the Turtle Beach Atlas 200 performed. Yes, it makes a few promises its specs can’t cash – I’m not totally swayed by its 3D sound credentials, for example – but it also offers excellent comfort and really rather decent sound.

And that’s before you even consider its cost. With a price of $59.99 / £49.99, this wired gaming set is very much at the affordable end of the market, and yet it never feels cheap – to the contrary, what it can do is actually pretty impressive for the price. If sound performance is your big priority in a budget headset, the Atlas 200 should make you very happy indeed.

  • Value score: 5/5

Should I buy the Turtle Beach Atlas 200?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Design & features

Although it packs a limited feature set, the Atlas 200 gets high marks for its comfy, well-built design.

4 / 5

Performance

Aside from average 3D performance, the Atlas 200 sounds impressive and has a great quality mic.

4 / 5

Value

Once you view these strengths through the lens of the Atlas 200's price, it's pretty clear: this is a fantastic value headset.

5 / 5

Buy it if…

You want awesome audio for a great-value price
For a headset that costs a mere $59.99 / £49.99, the Atlas 200 offers great audio, with accurate treble, expressive mids, and colossal bass.

You want excellent comfort
If this headset is comfy even on my fussy ears, that should mean you’ll find them soft and forgiving enough to wear for even longer gaming sessions.

Don’t buy it if…

You’ve got a small head
With the Atlas 200’s quite large height only being adjustable by about an inch, it doesn’t leave a lot of wiggle room for those who have smaller heads.

You want loads of features
The Turtle Beach Atlas 200 doesn’t have all that many extra capabilities. If you’re looking for sound profiles, true 3D audio, wireless connectivity, or customizable settings, you’re better off looking elsewhere.

Turtle Beach Atlas 200 review: also consider

Turtle Beach Atlas 200

Corsair HS55 Stereo

Epos H3

Price

$59.99 / £49.99

$59.99 / £49.99

$55 / £57.82 / AU$104.31

Weight

9.9oz / 280g

9.6oz / 284g

9.5oz / 270g

Compatibility

PC, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Playstation 4, Nintendo Switch 2, Steam Deck

PC, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Playstation 4, Nintendo Switch 2, Steam Deck

PC, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Playstation 4, Nintendo Switch 2, Steam Deck

Connection type

Wired (3.5mm)

Wired (3.5mm)

Wired (3.5mm)

Features

Flip-to-mute mic with noise reduction

Flip-to-mute mic

Flip-to-mute mic

Software

N/A

N/A

N/A

Corsair HS55 Stereo
Another budget banger, this wired gaming headset has a list price of $59.98 / £49.99 but also offers excellent sound and superb comfort. The only criticism we did find however, is that its low-end can occasionally overplay its hand, so it might be one for pure bass-heads only.

Read our full Corsair HS55 Stereo review.

Epos H3
Slightly pricier than the Atlas 200 but also slightly nice-ier, the Epos H3 is our top pick for the best wired gaming headset for a reason. It sounds fantastic for a headset that costs under $100 / £100 and is super comfortable to boot. However, its 3.5mm cable is proprietary and hard to replace, so if you’re prone to losing things, you might wanna give this one a miss.

For more information, read our full Epos H3 review.

How I tested the Turtle Beach Atlas 200

  • Used the headset over several days
  • Tried it out on a variety of devices and games
  • Tested out the mic by recording while gaming

I tested the Turtle Beach Atlas 200 over the course of several days. First, I used it while playing multiple games on several different platforms, including on PC and Steam Deck. I played Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 to test out its capabilities with soundtracks, Hades II for general effects, and Counter-Strike 2 to try out its surround sound capabilities.

I also tested the foldaway mic by recording myself while gaming. Not only did I test out its general audio quality, but I also tried out its flip-to-mute functionality and assessed how well it filtered out background noise by typing and playing music.

In terms of my expertise, I've been reviewing audio gadgets for over five years and have gotten hands-on with dozens of cutting-edge headphones. I've also been a committed gamer for 35 years, first cutting my teeth on Super Mario Bros. and Alex Kidd in the halcyon days of 8-bit gaming. Now I regularly game on PC, Steam Deck, PlayStation 4 Slim, and Nintendo Switch 2.

  • First reviewed: October 2025
  • Read more about how we test
Nintendo’s official all-in-one Switch 2 case may be rammed full of storage space, but is it really worth its high asking price?
4:00 am | October 10, 2025

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: | Comments: Off

Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case: review

If you’re looking to buy a case for your shiny new Nintendo Switch 2, you may have come across the official Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case. This model is large enough to house your Nintendo Switch 2 console, but also everything else you’d need to enjoy the console in TV mode.

Yep, there really is a lot of room to play with here. I’m talking slots for your console, dock, controllers… the full works. But with a list price of $84.99 / £66.99 / AU$109.95, is it really worth investing in? I tested it across multiple days to find out…

If, like me, you’re someone who much prefers playing your Nintendo Switch 2 in TV mode, then this case has you covered. It’s large and spacious, with individual compartments designated for your console, dock, Joy-Con 2 controllers, Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, and more. There’s also a zip-up pouch for you to store cables and any additional bits and pieces.

I was easily able to fit everything I needed within the case – something I can’t say about any other case I’ve tested.

The only aspect that could be improved storage-wise is an increase in physical game card slots. You only get six here – less than some third-party options like the Belkin Charging Case for Nintendo Switch 2, for instance. Still, if you’re taking a short trip – perhaps to game at a friend’s house, for example – six slots will probably be plenty.

Let’s talk durability – a pretty big factor when deciding on which case to buy. Now this model is certainly durable enough. No, it’s not got a rock-hard exterior or anything – it’s more flexible than some rivals. Still, it’s got a decent amount of padding, and the material used for the exterior is rough enough to deal with drops and scratches. On top of that, there’s a protective flap for your Switch 2 console and dock.

I tried throwing the case on the floor and giving it a good scratch, and I didn’t see any damage, so no complaints from me.

Person holding the Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case

(Image credit: Future)

I do have a couple of complaints, though. Firstly, the case’s handle is pretty narrow and doesn't extend all too much. As a result, it felt undersized in my hand. But as someone with relatively large hands, I wanted to get some additional opinions. Unfortunately, everyone in my office agreed that the handle’s extension and shape were too limiting, with one colleague noting that this resulted in a weak overall grip.

Secondly, I’d argue that the design is a little one-note. It's entirely black with no fun detailing of note. That’s not the be-all and end-all – but I would’ve liked to see a splash of color, or at the least, a few colorful options. As an official case, I feel like there was an opportunity to make use of Nintendo’s amazing IPs for a more charismatic look.

Finally, and you may have seen this coming, we need to talk about that price. This is definitely the most spacious case I’ve tested. It’s also durable and secure. But $84.99 / £66.99 / AU$109.95 is quite the investment – especially when a lot of third-party rivals are charging around half of that for a similar sort of build.

All in all, then, is the Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case worth it? Well, I’m pretty torn. On one hand, I can see myself using this due to a combination of abundant storage space and solid durability. On the other hand, I’m not convinced that it's priced particularly well, and I was disappointed with the awkward handle and slightly limited number of game slots. If you’ve got the cash, it’s an option worth considering – otherwise, I’d recommend checking out some third-party alternatives.

Person placing the right Joy-Con 2 controller into the Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case

(Image credit: Future)

Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case review: price & specs

Price

$84.99 / £66.99 / AU$109.95

Dimensions

6.4 x 9.5 x 9.8 inches / 163 x 241 x 248mm

Weight

1.7lbs / 770g

Number of game card slots

6

Compartments

7

Handle

Yes

Color

Black

Compartments inside the Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Design

Slightly one-note look, awkward handle, but plenty durable and secure.

3.5/5

Storage

Well-made individual compartments for console and accessories, only six game card slots.

4.5/5

Value

Despite high storage and ruggedness, it’s very expensive and not without its flaws.

3.5/5

Buy it if…

You want a highly secure case
I was more than satisfied with the durability of Nintendo’s official all-in-one case. It’s got a hardy, yet flexible exterior, a protective flap for your Switch 2 console and dock, and secure compartments for all of your accessories.

You’ve got plenty of accessories
Yes, if you’ve got an additional controller – such as the Pro Controller 2, for example – as well as Joy Con 2 grip and straps and cables, it should all fit with ease. Of course, you have space for your dock too.

Don’t buy it if…

You want the best bang for your buck
With a list price of $84.99 / £66.99 / AU$109.95, Nintendo's official all-in-one case is quite the investment. And although it's both durable and spacious, I'm not sure it's quite worth that much. A rival like the Nacon case in the 'Also consider' section, for example, is large enough to house your console, dock, and cables. And although it doesn't have as much room for accessories, it's still durable and easy to handle, while also coming in at around half the price.

You want to carry a large number of games around
Don’t get me wrong, six game slots is solid enough, and if you’re only taking a short trip, that should be enough. But there are competitors who offer 10 or more game card slots, so it would’ve been nice to get a couple more here.

Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case review: also consider

Nacon Protection Case XL for Nintendo Switch 2
Unfortunately, this one’s not available in the US or Australia just yet, but if you’re in the UK, the Nacon Protection Case XL is the ideal alternative to Nintendo’s full-sized model. It comes in at under £25 (about $34 / AU$50), but still has enough room for your console, dock, and cables. It won’t quite offer the space for a Pro Controller as well, say, but if that’s ok with you, then you may get better bang for your buck with Nacon.

Read our full Nacon Protection Case XL for Nintendo Switch 2 review.

How I tested the Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case

Person placing power cable into the Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case

(Image credit: Future)
  • Tested over the course of multiple days
  • Compared directly against rival models
  • Trialled by a Switch 2 owner and life-long gamer

I tested the Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case over multiple days. I loaded it up with a Nintendo Switch 2 console, dock, Joy-Cons, a third-party controller, cables, games… you name it.

Although I wasn’t particularly keen to drop the case with my console inside, I threw it onto the floor while empty. I also tried scratching the exterior and checked for any wear after a few days of use. I also compared aspects like sturdiness and storage space against the Nacon Protection Case XL for Nintendo Switch 2.

Generally speaking, I’m a Switch 2 owner, lifelong gamer, and experienced tech reviewer. I’ve had the Switch 2 from launch, and have reviewed a bunch of accessories, like the Genki Aegis Shield, DBrand Prism 2.0, and Hori Piranha Plant Camera for Nintendo Switch 2.

  • Read more about how we test
  • First reviewed: October 2025
Terrified of damaging your Nintendo Switch 2? I reviewed this cheap screen protector, and it’s all you’ll need to put your worries at rest
5:00 pm | September 20, 2025

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: | Comments: Off

Genki Aegis Shield: review

The Genki Aegis Shield has a pretty sublime namesake. In Ancient Greek mythology, Aegis sometimes refers to the shield of a deity, such as the thunder god, Zeus, or the goddess of wisdom, Athena. It is, then, a word that symbolizes protection of the highest order. And so, in comes the Genki Aegis Shield – a screen protector for the Nintendo Switch 2. Can it really offer divine levels of protection? I tested it to find out.

Out of the box, there was a lot going on. You get two screen protectors, an application frame, screen wipes, a microfiber cloth, and even a squeegee (great word, isn’t it). The application frame is pretty large compared to some others I’ve used, and it wasn’t the firmest around our Switch 2 – but it was still perfectly able to get the job done. There’s a lot of plastic here, with elements like a D-pad frame and play button etched into the application tool.

The application was fairly straightforward overall. The instructions weren’t as comprehensive as I’ve seen on other models, but the steps are accompanied by pictures to support your installation. I simply had to slot the frame onto the Nintendo Switch 2, pull a release tab out, swipe across the protector, and remove the frame.

Person pulling tab attached to the Genki Aegis Shield

(Image credit: Future)

After a bit of squeegee action, I was able to get all of the air bubbles out from under the Aegis Shield, ensuring a clean, well-aligned application.

At some angles, I could see a little bit of inconsistency on the left edge of the screen protector, but otherwise, the end result was fairly discreet. Of course, you may not encounter this minor hiccup, but it’s worth flagging.

Genki Aegis Shield with Mario Kart World on display

(Image credit: Future)

Next came the damage test, and the Aegis Shield nailed it. I tried scraping a key across the protector, applying increasing pressure over time. But even when pressing pretty hard, the key glided across the surface with almost no resistance, and never left a single mark. Genki itself claims to have tested a drill on the screen, so this thing should be able to withstand all kinds of action.

One thing that I picked up on is that the Aegis Shield was pretty prone to picking up obvious fingerprint marks – even when I compared it to the DBrand Prism 2.0 screen protector for Switch 2. However, all it takes is a quick wipe with the microfiber cloth, and you can cast those pesky marks away.

Elsewhere, this is a strong performer. When playing Mario Kart World, the protector didn’t inhibit display clarity whatsoever. No parts of the Switch 2’s screen were obscured, foggy, or discolored, which was very pleasing indeed. When picking at the corners of the protector, it also remained comfortable in place, so it’s safe to say that it’s a secure pick.

Fingerprints on the Genki Aegis Shield

(Image credit: Future)

And when you consider this model is only $19.99 / £17 / AU$35, it’s great value for money. It’s considerably cheaper than that DBrand model I referenced, and in the same ballpark as the impressive Belkin TemperedGlass screen protector that we tried out during batch testing.

Yes, the application frame may seem a little overkill. I could see a small inconsistency on one edge of the screen, and you will notice fingerprints fairly easily. But still, you get a clear display and plenty of toughness at a reasonable price. For that alone, this is a model worth checking out.

Genki Aegis Shield review: price & specs

Price

$19.99 / £17 / AU$35

Number of screen protectors

2

Material

Tempered glass

Application type

Drop-in-place frame

Additional items

Microfiber cloth, screen wipes, squeegee

Genki Aegis Shield with Switch 2 console and cleaning tools

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Genki Aegis Shield?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Ease of application

Instructions could be a touch clearer, but fairly straightforward, tiny inconsistency on the left edge of the screen post-application.

3.5/5

Design

Application tool is quite large, but easy enough to use, fingerprints picked up easily, but cleaning tools work well.

3.5/5

Toughness

Easily withstood key scraping, with no signs of scratching or wear.

5/5

Value

Despite a couple of quirks, you’re getting a tough, low-priced protector.

4.5/5

Buy it if...

You’re looking for reliable protection
After scraping the screen protector with a key, I didn’t see even a spec of damage. And believe me, I pressed pretty hard. Genki itself claims to have put the Aegis Shield through a drill test, so I think it’s safe to say you won’t have to worry all too much about scratches.

You’re on a budget
At just $19.99 / £17 / AU$35, the Aegis Shield is a great budget-friendly option. You get two screen protectors in the box and all the cleaning tools you could possibly need, so this model offers plenty of bang for your buck.

Don't buy it if...

You want the most seamless application possible
During testing, the application frame was a little larger and clunkier than some other models I’ve used. Meanwhile, the instructions are fairly easy to follow, but not the most detailed. So, if you want the most seamless application possible, the Aegis Shield may not quite hit the spot.

You’re looking for something fingerprint-proof
This screen protector picked up fingerprints a little easier than the DBrand Prism 2.0, for example, which may frustrate some. Having said that, there is a microfiber cloth included in the box if you ever need to give the surface a quick clean.

Genki Aegis Shield review: also consider

Belkin TemperedGlass Screen Protector for Nintendo Switch 2
During batch testing, we were really impressed with the Belkin TemperedGlass screen protector. There’s no chunky plastic mechanism, just a basic frame. On top of that, the instructions are easy to follow, the application feels smooth, and the end result looks great. It's even cheaper than the Aegis Shield too – what’s not to like?

How I tested the Genki Aegis Shield

Person holding application frame on the Genki Aegis Shield

(Image credit: Future)
  • Applied the screen protector using the written instructions
  • Tested its effect on display, fingerprint resistance, and how easy it is to damage
  • Tested by a lifelong gamer

For the Genki Aegis Shield, I used TechRadar's standardized process for testing Nintendo Switch 2 screen protectors. First off, we apply the screen protector using the included instructions. Then, we test the protector's impact on the console's display by assessing aspects like brightness and viewing angles.

After this, we test how the surface copes against fingerprints, before scratching the model with a set of keys and attempting to peel at the edges. Ultimately, all of this helps us to judge ease of application, durability, and general build quality.

But let's talk about my experience. I've tested more than a hundred products at TechRadar – everything from gaming accessories, such as the Hori Piranha Plant Camera for Nintendo Switch 2, through to other screen protectors, like the DBrand Prism 2.0.

On top of that, I'm a lifelong gamer with a massive love for Nintendo. I own a Switch 2 personally, and have reviewed a number of games for the platform, including Drag x Drive and Raidou Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army.

  • First reviewed: September 2025
  • Read more about how we test
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