HyperX Cloud III vs Logitech G Pro X SE vs SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 vs Logitech G432 vs Razer BlackShark V2 X: The Headset Hunger Games

Gaming Headsets5 products

Quick verdict

Picking the least disappointing plastic headband

For pure comfort, the HyperX Cloud III wins, while the Logitech G Pro X SE takes the crown for microphone quality. If you are on a strict budget, the Razer BlackShark V2 X delivers the most utility for your pound.

Side by side

FeaturePhoto of HyperX Cloud IIIHyperX Cloud IIIPhoto of Logitech G Pro X SELogitech G Pro X SEPhoto of SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1Photo of Logitech G432Logitech G432Photo of Razer BlackShark V2 XRazer BlackShark V2 X
Price£59.57£62.54£44.99£45.98£37.00
Microphone QualityThe Blue Voice software on the G Pro X SE offers the most professional control.10mm noise-cancelling6mm Blue Voice tech (winner)ClearCast Gen 26mm flip-to-muteHyperclear Cardioid
ConnectivityThe Cloud III provides the most flexible connection options right out of the box.USB-C, USB-A, 3.5mm (winner)3.5mm, USB DAC3.5mm3.5mm, USB DAC3.5mm
WeightAt just 240g, the BlackShark V2 X is noticeably lighter than the competition.Not listed320gNot listedNot listed240g (winner)

Product by product

HyperX Cloud IIIOur pick

Long-term comfort seekers

A reliable, comfortable workhorse with a solid build. It avoids flashy gimmicks in favor of a straightforward, sturdy design.

What We Liked 👍

  • Exceptional long-term comfort
  • Durable metal frame

What Could Be Better 👎

  • Software can be buggy
  • Underwhelming default audio profile

Logitech G Pro X SE

Competitive voice comms

This headset brings pro-grade software features to a wired setup. It is built to survive the stress of a tournament, or just a bad losing streak.

What We Liked 👍

  • Industry-leading mic software
  • Sturdy aluminum and steel construction

What Could Be Better 👎

  • Audio fidelity is just average
  • Setup can be finicky

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1

Casual multi-platform gamers

A lightweight option that looks sleek and gets the job done. It is the minimalists choice for a clutter-free desk.

What We Liked 👍

  • Very lightweight design
  • Convenient retractable microphone

What Could Be Better 👎

  • Build feels plasticky
  • Limited audio customization

Logitech G432

Budget surround sound

An aging but capable veteran that still hits the basics. The surround sound is functional if you enjoy the software dance.

What We Liked 👍

  • Very affordable entry point
  • Effective surround sound software

What Could Be Better 👎

  • Requires software for best results
  • Build quality shows age

Razer BlackShark V2 XBest value

High-speed competitive play

A featherlight headset that prioritizes performance and noise isolation. It feels like wearing nothing, which is the ultimate goal of any decent wearable.

What We Liked 👍

  • Extremely lightweight for comfort
  • Solid passive noise isolation

What Could Be Better 👎

  • Non-detachable cable
  • Plastic build feels cheap

Battle of the plastic headbands

So you want a wired headset that won't make you look like an extra from a low-budget sci-fi film? You've got five contenders here. The HyperX Cloud III and Logitech G Pro X SE are the heavy hitters, offering metal-infused builds that won't snap if you toss them across the room after a particularly unfair lobby. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 and Razer BlackShark V2 X, meanwhile, are all about shedding weight, focusing on making you forget you're wearing them at all.

Spec sheets say one thing, but your ears will say another. While everyone claims 'immersive' audio, you're mostly getting variations of the same 50mm driver experience. The Logitech G432 is the budget elder here, and while its 7.1 software is fine, it feels like it's from a different era compared to the slick integration of the modern Nova 1 or the Cloud III's comfort-first approach.

Differences that might actually keep you awake

The real differentiator here is the microphone software. If you're shouting callouts, the G Pro X SE and its Blue Voice tech is in a league of its own. It won't make your voice sound like a radio host, but it will clean up the digital mud. If you care more about your neck muscles surviving a twelve-hour gaming binge, the BlackShark V2 X is the clear winner simply because it weighs next to nothing.

Connectivity is another trap. The Cloud III gives you the most options out of the box, whereas the Arctis Nova 1 and BlackShark V2 X stick to the old-school 3.5mm jack. If you have a PC with a messy front-panel port or a console that hates proprietary gear, choose your connector carefully before you hit that checkout button.

The final deathmatch

If money is no object and you want the best mic for your teammates to endure, grab the Logitech G Pro X SE. If you value your comfort above all else, the HyperX Cloud III remains the industry standard for a reason.

For everyone else trying to save a few quid, the Razer BlackShark V2 X offers the best performance-per-pound ratio. Just don't expect it to last a decade, because, spoiler alert, none of these plastic wonders are built for eternity.

Prices on amazon.co.uk as of October 30, 2026. Prices may change.

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