Today, there are many different types of gaming headsets and models, and it can be challenging trying to pick the right one.
Gaming headsets play a crucial role in the overall gaming experience. The right gaming headset will make a huge difference in how you will enjoy the different entertainment options that come with the games.
However, Astro A40 and A50 are two of the top models in the market used by experienced gamers. The two gaming headsets are different in terms of features and specs.
If you are a gaming enthusiast, and you are not sure which gaming headset to select between Astro A40 vs. A50, here is a review of the two headsets that will help you in making a decision.
Astro A40 Headset Review
The Astro A40 headset has been in the market for more than ten years. It is wired and large headset designed for aggressive gamers. It comes with two colors which are black and white.
The Astro A40 is well structured for the comfort of the user. Most of the parts are made of plastic, and they are customizable to suit every gamer. The headband can be adjusted to suit the head of the user, and one can swap the headband and the earcups.
Although some mic issues have been reported over at launch, it has been fixed and refined over the years.
This headset has a high price point but it is a quality headset that could last for a long time. For a cheaper headset, the most recommendable brand is Turtle Beach.
Pros of Astro A40
- Comfort
The Astro A40 headset is very comfortable to use for many hours. It is lightweight and weighs 0.7 lbs. The weight of this headset is well distributed on the head.
The earcups have magnetized covers for comfort purposes, and you can remove the covers if you do not want to use them. The headband and the earcups are padded with soft materials which stop overheating and sweating.
- High audio quality
The audio quality of Astro A40 makes this gaming headset famous among gamers. It provides a well-balanced sound, with a tight rhythm and a well-controlled bass. The headsets have 40mm drivers that enhance sound quality.
- Compatibility with many devices
The Astro A40 headsets can be used with many gaming devices. They include PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Windows 7 and Mac OS X.
- Detachable microphone
One of the advantages that make Astro A40 a unique gaming headset is a detachable microphone. You can remove the microphone whenever you want and attach it back.
- Customizable options
Most of the parts in the Astro A40 can be customized to suit the gamer. They include the earcups and the headband.
- Durability among the best
This headset was built for gamers that play long hours. A durable headset is a must and that is what the Astro A40 delivers.
- Details sounds are very clear
In FPS games such as COD, Destiny or any shooting multiplayer, clear sound is really important. You can anticipate your enemies with clear sounds and boost your gaming experience. Also, if you use the sounds as part of your strategy, it will make you more competitive.
Cons of Astro A40
- No volume controls
When it comes to gaming headsets, you will need to be able to control the sound. But with the Astro A40, you are not able to increase or reduce the sound as there are no features for sound control.
- Wired
The Astro A40 is a wired gaming headset through a USB port which is quite inconveniencing. When gaming with this wired headset, the wires can limit your movement from one place to another. Also, this might depend if your set up. If you have a small space then the wired should be fine.
- Power
With the Astro A40, you will be required to plug into power every time you are gaming. It can limit you when you want to enjoy gaming outdoors, where there is no source of power.
- Not compatible with Xbox One
If you own an Xbox One stay away! This headset will not work with your console. This only works with PS4, MAC & PC. Unless you purchase the MixAmp version for Xbox One.
- Stiff Headset around your neck
Ever decide to take a break from the headset around you ear then you will have some issues with that. This is not a bog deal unless you’re a gamer that games 8+ or live streamer.
- Static noise may occurred (small chance)
There have been feedbacks of static noise. However, static noise has a lot of factors. Loose cables are one of the main reason. & dropping your headset often. Although, there is a small chance that your headset might be actually defective so there is nothing serious to worry about as Astro will replace it.
Again, of you make sure you get the latest A40 headset for Xbox One if you grabbing this headphone. Mixamp should be included.
What is in the box of A40 Headset?
- A40 TR Headset
- A40 TR Microphone
- ASTRO Speaker Tags
- MixAmp Pro TR
- 2.0m A40 TR Inline Mute Cable
- 3.0m TOSlink Optical Cable
- 3.0m Micro-USB Cable
- 0.5m Digital Daisy Chain Cable
Astro A50 Headset Review
The Astro A50 is one of the most valuable wireless gaming headsets in the market today. It is Astro’s third generation gaming headset. It is well constructed with an excellent design.
Many gamers prefer this gaming headset due to its superior audio quality and flexibility.
The Astro A50 is made of two main components which include a wireless headset (stereo) and a USB base station. The USB station is used to connect your gaming device and the headset.
Some of the unique attributes of this gaming headset are the colors. It comes in black, blue and green designs depending on the gaming device you are using. The headset is made of high-quality materials that make it durable.
Pros of Astro A50 Gaming Headset
• Excellent design
The Astro A50 has well-padded ear cups that offer the comfort that one needs during gaming. They have breathable pads that reduce the excess heating when you play games for many hours. The cups are quite big, and they seal around your ears. It weighs 0.8 lbs that makes them lightweight.
• Good sound quality
The gaming headsets have deep and excellent bass. They have sound adjustment controls whereby one can mute and unmute the sound, unlike the Astro A40.
The microphone has noise cancellation features that eliminate background noise which makes this headphones ideal to be used outdoors. High quality and low latency voice chat.
• Power
With the Astro A50, you do not need to keep it plugged in power throughout when using it. They come with Ion batteries that can last for about 10 hours. The batteries allow gamers to enjoy gaming in anyplace and at anytime. The batteries are rechargeable, and they take about 5 hours to be fully charged.
• User-friendly
The Astro A50 is easy to use compared to the Astro A40. The parts are easy to attach, and it comes with a manual on how to use it.
• Flexible
The Astro A50 gaming headset can be folded away when you are not using it or when traveling with it. Once folded, it can fit well in a small carrier bag.
- Good lasting batteries
If you’re going to spend $300 dollars on a quality headset, then you mus expect quality battery. The A50 does not come short of that. It has been reported that battery will last as much as 8 hours. Although, it depends on the game and how much breaks you take.
Cons of Astro A50
• Permanent microphone
The Astro A50 has a permanent microphone which means that it cannot be removed when you are not using it.
• Connectivity
The Astro A50 does not have Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, it cannot be used in multi-device pairing.
• The design is not appealing.
The design of the Astro A50 is not appealing as compared to the design of Astro A40. It is made from matte plastic, and the sides are made of metallic pieces.
What is in the box of A50 Headset?
- A50 Wireless Headset with Lithium-Ion Battery
- ASTRO Wireless 5 GHz Base Station
- Transmitter/Charging Stand
- 1.0m Micro USB Cable
- 1.0m Optical Cable
Should you buy Astro A40 or A50?
The two gaming headsets have many similarities, but certain differences can make a huge difference. The Astro A50 is quite durable compared to the A40 due to its sturdy construction. Also, you can purchase mod kits to further enhance your experience.
The Astro A50 has sound isolation and passive noise cancellation features. The sound quality of the Astro A50 is better than the Astro A40. Therefore, if you want to invest in an excellent gaming headset that will last for long and offer you the comfort you deserve, you should go for the Astro A50 gaming headset.
Do you prefer a wireless headsets over wired headsets? Do you think the A50 is the best gaming headset?
