When it comes to gaming headsets, two names stand out from the rest: Kraken and Turtle Beach. Both brands have been around for years, and both have their loyal followings. But which one is better? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the features, pros, and cons of each brand to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Comfort
Let’s face it: gaming sessions can last for hours, and comfort is key. Both Kraken and Turtle Beach have put a lot of thought into their designs, but there are some key differences.
Kraken’s Design
Kraken headsets are known for their sleek, rugged design. The Razer Kraken X, for example, has a sturdy aluminum frame that can withstand even the most intense gaming sessions. The ear cushions are made of a soft, plush material that provides excellent sound isolation and comfort. The headband is adjustable, making it easy to find the perfect fit. Overall, Kraken headsets exude a sense of durability and style.
Turtle Beach’s Design
Turtle Beach headsets, on the other hand, have a more futuristic look. The Turtle Beach Recon 200, for example, has a sleek, angular design that’s sure to turn heads. The ear cushions are made of a breathable mesh material that keeps your ears cool even during long gaming sessions. The headband is also adjustable, but some users have reported that it can be a bit too tight. Overall, Turtle Beach headsets have a more modern, high-tech feel to them.
Winner: Kraken
While both brands have comfortable designs, Kraken’s headsets have a slight edge when it comes to overall comfort and durability.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is arguably the most important aspect of any gaming headset. After all, what’s the point of having a great gaming experience if you can’t hear what’s going on?
Kraken’s Sound Quality
Kraken headsets are known for their excellent sound quality. The Razer Kraken X, for example, has 7.1 surround sound capabilities and 40mm drivers that provide crystal-clear audio. The soundstage is wide and immersive, making it easy to pinpoint enemy locations and immerse yourself in the game world. The bass response is also excellent, with deep, rumbling lows that add to the overall gaming experience.
Turtle Beach’s Sound Quality
Turtle Beach headsets also have excellent sound quality, but it’s a bit more hit-or-miss. The Turtle Beach Recon 200, for example, has 12mm drivers that provide clear, balanced audio. The soundstage is a bit more narrow than Kraken’s, but it’s still immersive and engaging. The bass response is also good, but not quite as deep as Kraken’s. However, some users have reported that Turtle Beach headsets can be prone to audio issues, such as crackling or distortion.
Winner: Kraken
While both brands have excellent sound quality, Kraken’s headsets have a more consistent and immersive gaming experience.
Mic Quality
A good gaming headset is only as good as its mic quality. After all, you want to be able to communicate with your teammates clearly and easily.
Kraken’s Mic Quality
Kraken headsets have excellent mic quality. The Razer Kraken X, for example, has a retractable, unidirectional mic that picks up your voice clearly and rejects background noise. The mic is also very sensitive, so you don’t have to shout to be heard. However, some users have reported that the mic can be prone to popping and plosive sounds.
Turtle Beach’s Mic Quality
Turtle Beach headsets also have excellent mic quality. The Turtle Beach Recon 200, for example, has a flip-up, unidirectional mic that’s very similar to Kraken’s. The mic is also very sensitive and picks up your voice clearly, but some users have reported that it can be prone to background noise and hiss.
Winner: Tie
Both brands have excellent mic quality, but it’s a bit of a tie. Kraken’s mic is more sensitive and has fewer background noise issues, but Turtle Beach’s mic is more durable and less prone to popping and plosive sounds.
Price
Let’s face it: price is an important consideration for any gaming headset. After all, you want to get the most bang for your buck.
Kraken’s Price
Kraken headsets tend to be more expensive than Turtle Beach headsets. The Razer Kraken X, for example, retails for around $100. This is a bit more than the Turtle Beach Recon 200, which retails for around $60.
Turtle Beach’s Price
Turtle Beach headsets tend to be more affordable than Kraken headsets. The Turtle Beach Recon 200, for example, is a very budget-friendly option that provides excellent value for its price.
Winner: Turtle Beach
If you’re on a tight budget, Turtle Beach headsets are a great option. They provide excellent value for their price and are a great choice for gamers on a budget.
Additional Features
Both Kraken and Turtle Beach headsets have a range of additional features that enhance the gaming experience.
Kraken’s Additional Features
The Razer Kraken X, for example, has a range of additional features, including customizable backlighting, a USB audio controller, and compatibility with Razer’s Synapse software. This allows you to customize your gaming experience and tailor it to your needs.
Turtle Beach’s Additional Features
The Turtle Beach Recon 200, on the other hand, has a more limited range of additional features. It has a flip-up mic, for example, and is compatible with Turtle Beach’s Audio Hub software. This allows you to customize your gaming experience and tailor it to your needs.
Winner: Kraken
Kraken headsets have a more comprehensive range of additional features that enhance the gaming experience.
Conclusion
So, is Kraken better than Turtle Beach? The answer is a resounding yes. While Turtle Beach headsets are more affordable and have a more modern design, Kraken headsets have a slight edge when it comes to comfort, sound quality, and additional features. However, Turtle Beach headsets are still a great option for gamers on a budget.
Ultimately, the choice between Kraken and Turtle Beach comes down to your personal preferences and gaming needs. If you’re looking for a high-quality gaming headset with excellent sound quality and comfort, Kraken is the way to go. If you’re on a tight budget and want a great value, Turtle Beach is a great option.
| Feature | Kraken | Turtle Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Design and Comfort | Strong, durable design; comfortable ear cushions | Futuristic design; breathable mesh ear cushions |
| Sound Quality | Excellent 7.1 surround sound; clear, balanced audio | Good sound quality; clear, balanced audio |
| Mic Quality | Excellent mic quality; sensitive and clear | Excellent mic quality; sensitive and clear |
| Price | $100 | $60 |
| Additional Features | Customizable backlighting; USB audio controller; Synapse software compatibility | Flip-up mic; Audio Hub software compatibility |
We hope this article has helped you make an informed decision about which gaming headset is right for you. Happy gaming!
What is the main difference between Kraken and Turtle Beach?
The main difference between Kraken and Turtle Beach is the sound quality and surround sound capabilities. Kraken, specifically the HyperX Cloud II, has a more accurate and immersive 7.1 surround sound experience, while Turtle Beach’s Stealth 700 has a more emphasis on bass and a slightly more casual gaming experience.
In terms of design and build, Kraken has a more durable and premium feel, with a sturdy aluminum frame and comfortable ear cushions. Turtle Beach, on the other hand, has a more plastic-heavy design, but still provides a comfortable fit. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and gaming style.
Which headset is better for FPS games?
For FPS games, Kraken’s HyperX Cloud II is generally considered the better option. This is because of its accurate and precise 7.1 surround sound, which allows players to pinpoint enemy locations and react quickly. The Cloud II’s soundstage is also wider, giving players a better sense of spatial awareness.
Additionally, the Cloud II’s microphone is more sensitive and picks up voice commands more clearly, allowing for better communication with teammates. Turtle Beach’s Stealth 700 is still a great option, but it’s more geared towards a casual gaming experience and may not provide the same level of precision as the Cloud II.
Can I use Kraken or Turtle Beach on PC, Xbox, and PS4?
Yes, both Kraken and Turtle Beach offer headsets that are compatible with multiple platforms, including PC, Xbox, and PS4. The HyperX Cloud II is compatible with PC, Xbox One, and PS4, while Turtle Beach’s Stealth 700 is compatible with Xbox One, PS4, and PC via a wireless adapter.
It’s worth noting that some features, such as surround sound, may not be available on all platforms. For example, the Cloud II’s surround sound only works on PC, while the Stealth 700’s surround sound works on Xbox One and PS4. Be sure to check the product specifications before making a purchase.
How long do the batteries last on Kraken and Turtle Beach?
The battery life of Kraken’s HyperX Cloud II is around 30 hours on a single charge, depending on the volume and usage. Turtle Beach’s Stealth 700 has a battery life of around 15 hours on a single charge.
It’s worth noting that the battery life can vary depending on the usage and volume levels. Both headsets also have a battery indicator, so you can keep track of how much battery life is left.
Are Kraken or Turtle Beach more durable?
Kraken’s HyperX Cloud II is generally considered more durable than Turtle Beach’s Stealth 700. The Cloud II has a sturdy aluminum frame and more premium materials, making it more resistant to wear and tear.
The Stealth 700, on the other hand, has a more plastic-heavy design, which can be more prone to breaking. However, both headsets are built to last and can withstand regular gaming sessions.
Can I customize the sound settings on Kraken or Turtle Beach?
Yes, both Kraken and Turtle Beach offer customizable sound settings. The HyperX Cloud II has a companion software that allows users to adjust the equalizer settings, mic monitoring, and surround sound.
Turtle Beach’s Stealth 700 also has a companion app that allows users to adjust the equalizer settings, mic monitoring, and surround sound. Additionally, the Stealth 700 has a feature called “Superhuman Hearing” that amplifies subtle sounds in-game.
Are Kraken or Turtle Beach better for VR gaming?
Both Kraken and Turtle Beach are suitable for VR gaming, but Kraken’s HyperX Cloud II is generally considered the better option. The Cloud II’s 7.1 surround sound and accurate soundstage provide a more immersive experience in VR games.
The Cloud II’s microphone is also more sensitive and picks up voice commands more clearly, which is important for VR games that require communication with teammates. Turtle Beach’s Stealth 700 is still a great option, but its surround sound may not be as accurate in VR games.