RAZER BARRACUDA X CHROMA REVIEW … Color me wireless!
Summary: Razer Barracuda X Chroma delivers the audio, the wireless and the colours!
4.5
Colour me wireless!
The new Razer Barracuda X Chroma is here that combines their high-end audio with wireless plus Choma (RGB lighting) technology. Does it tick all the right boxes for gamer audiophiles? Read on! Available from Razer.com, RazerStores and authorised sellers, the Razer Barracuda X Chroma retails for $229.95 AUD or $259.95 NZD (November 2024) and has been designed in collaboration with the gaming community.
Compared to previous Razer headsets, the Barracuda X Chroma is still slightly more rounded (less angles) in its appearance and comes in two colours, white and black (reviewed) which is quite lightweight. Besides the adjustable padded headband and ear cushions with memory foam, the other standout feature is the incorporation of Chroma lighting.
Not only does each outer ear cup boast an RGB light ring, the Razer logo is also Chroma powered. Through the Razer app or Razer Chroma Studio , you can customise six zones on the Barracuda which is perfect for online gamers and streamers. As of today, there are over 300 games that support this feature and best of all you can sync with other Razer products.
To set up, you can select between Bluetooth or 2.4Ghz wireless via the Razer HyperSpeed dongle. As it supports SmartSwitch technology, you can connect to both wireless technologies at once which means if you’re gaming and someone calls, you will be able to speak with them and don’t stress because there is a do not disturb mode via the Razer audio app.
The Unboxing
What about comfort?
The Razer Barracuda X Chroma is super comfortable and I mean super comfortable. This is mainly due to its weight at 285 grams which allows you to wear it all day – and yes, it’s lighter than a can of Coke… considerably. It’s also quite ergonomic and the breathable memory cushions feel great on your ears and as mentioned, the headband is adjustable. Additionally the Razer HyperClear Cardioid mic can be detached when you’re not gaming – such as listening to music via your phone or watching Paramount+. Again, it feels great on your head and even lounging around on your couch.
In terms of battery, the Barracuda X Chroma supports up to 70 hours and it supports quick charging that with just a 15-minute charge, it will give you 6-hours of battery. If Chroma is enabled, it will provide you around 30-hours of wireless connectivity. And for those loving colour… you’ll love this headset because with 16.8 million colours and six zones, your observers will be impressed!
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From an audio perspective, the Barracuda X Chroma comes with powerful TriForce 40mm drivers that, according to Razer, improves vocals, produces louder and clearer audio and keeps it more balanced without spikes. It also supports 7.1 Surround Sound that successfully creates that immersive audio experience. Further it has great levels, no distortion and a powerful bass (that can be tweaked like all the audio features). I was quite surprised by the 7.1 surround sound as this feature really makes it feel like you are surrounded by audio, opposed to just a stereo experience.
Games such as Call of Duty Black Ops 6, God of War and Dragon Age: The Veilguard sounded phenomenal on this headset, especially the battles of Black Ops 6 that felt like a military blockbuster. I also enjoyed the ambience of Dragon Age that I did not hear on my PC speakers. Streaming films and TV series via my smartphone also produced that personal audio blockbuster experience with Disney+’s All about Agatha really drawing me in. Equally music cannot be faulted and artists such as Sabrina Carpenter, Taylor Swift, Metallica and The Epic Orchestra (look them up on YouTube) were, well… epic!
And the apps? Whether on your PC or via your smartphone, Razer has one of the best software suits available that easily allows you to tweak and access the headset immediately. For example, enabling game mode, music or movies, there’s quite a bit of customisation available to the gamer plus lots of equalizer tweaks – including the various effects available via the Chroma lighting.
Final Thoughts?
The Razer Barracuda X Chroma successfully combines an impressive battery life with excellent audio to help bring your games to life, particularly through its 7.1 surround sound immersion. It’s also super comfortable, boasts fast-charging, provides hybrid capabilities that in the end, delivers an all-round audio excellence, particularly from a gaming point of view!
Highlights
- Razer SmartSwitch Dual Wireless
Quickly toggle between Razer HyperSpeed Wireless and Bluetooth connections, as well as easily pick up calls without having to fiddle with your phone - 285g Ergonomic Design
Designed to be lightweight for all-day comfort both indoors and out, with adjustable bands to fit any head size, a padded top-band for even weight distribution and memory foam ear cushions to prevent fatigue. - 6-zone Earcup Lighting
With increased lighting zones to support more Razer Chroma RGB effects, customize each zone via Chroma Studio to achieve stunning visuals - Razer TriForce 40mm Drivers
Proprietary design that tunes high, mid, and low frequencies individually, ensuring a powerful, lifelike auditory experience - Detachable Razer HyperClear Cardiod Mic
Equipped with an upgraded mic that provides enhanced voice capture for crystal-clear team comms and is easily removable when needed - 70-Hour Battery Life
With improved battery life for all-day use, a quick 15 minutes of charging will yield approximately 6 hours of gameplay
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