Razer Kraken Gaming Headset: Lightweight Aluminum Frame – Retractable Noise Isolating Microphone Review

The Razer Kraken Gaming Headset with its lightweight aluminum frame and retractable noise isolating microphone excels in comfort and durability, thanks to the sturdy yet light frame that supports marathon gaming without fatigue.

Lightweight Aluminum Frame

Design & Weight: The bauxite aluminum frame keeps the headset at ~322g, lightweight for its class, reducing neck strain during long sessions. It’s sturdy yet flexible, balancing durability with portability.

Comfort: Paired with cooling-gel ear cushions and a plush headband, the frame distributes weight evenly, making it ideal for extended gaming (3-5 hours).

Glasses-wearers benefit from ear cup channels, minimizing pressure. Users report minimal fatigue, though over-stretching the headband can loosen fit slightly.

Durability: The aluminum resists bending and holds up well over time, unlike plastic-heavy budget headsets. Plastic components (e.g., hinges) are less robust but don’t detract significantly from the frame’s quality.

Audio Stability: The rigid frame ensures ear cups stay snug, enhancing bass-heavy audio and passive noise isolation. It supports clear positional cues in games like shooters (e.g., Call of Duty, Doom), though sound quality hinges more on the 50mm drivers.

Retractable Noise Isolating Microphone

Design: The flexible, retractable unidirectional mic tucks into the left ear cup, keeping it out of the way when not in use. It’s compact and adjustable for optimal positioning.

Performance: Marketed as “noise isolating,” the mic captures voice decently in quiet settings but struggles in noisy environments. It’s clear enough for casual gaming or Discord chats but sounds tinny and lacks robust noise cancellation compared to higher-end models (e.g., Kraken Ultimate’s active noise-canceling mic).

Noise Isolation: The mic filters some ambient noise (e.g., keyboard clicks), but louder sounds like background chatter or fans can bleed through. It’s functional for in-game comms but not ideal for streaming or professional use.

Comparison: Against budget competitors like the HyperX Cloud Stinger, the Kraken’s mic is average. Newer models (e.g., Kraken V3’s HyperClear Cardioid mic) offer better clarity and noise suppression, highlighting the 2019 model’s limitations.

Overall Performance

Sound Quality: The frame and mic don’t directly influence audio, but the stable fit enhances the 50mm drivers’ bass-heavy profile, great for action games and immersive explosions. Mids and highs are weaker, making music or dialogue-heavy media less impressive.

Features: The 3.5mm wired headset works across PC, consoles, and mobile. Onboard controls (volume wheel, mic mute) are simple, but there’s no game/chat balance, a drawback for competitive gamers. No RGB or software customization (unlike Kraken Ultimate).

Use Case: The frame’s comfort and mic’s basic clarity suit casual gamers who prioritize long sessions over pro-grade audio or streaming. It’s less versatile for music or content creation.

Value

Price: At ~$50-80, the aluminum frame adds durability and comfort, rare in this range. The mic, while not stellar, is adequate for the cost, making it a solid budget pick.

Pros: Lightweight comfort, durable frame, cross-platform compatibility, and decent gaming audio.

Cons: The mic’s “noise isolating” claim overpromises, sounding thin in noisy settings. Plastic parts feel cheap, and feature set is basic compared to Kraken Tournament Edition or newer V3/V4 models.

The Razer Kraken headset is a solid choice for gamers seeking a balance of comfort, durability, and audio performance across multiple platforms.  The retractable mic is convenient and serviceable for casual chats or in-game comms, but its noise isolation is underwhelming, picking up background noise too easily for anything beyond quiet environments.

At ~$50-100, it’s a great value for gamers wanting a reliable, comfortable wired headset for PC or console, but those needing a top-tier mic or advanced features should look at the Kraken Ultimate, V3,V4.