Astro recently introduced a refreshed version of their A10 headset, aiming to correct past shortcomings and compete in the crowded budget headset market. Here, we dive into what the new A10 brings to the table.
Comfort: A Light Touch with Room for Improvement
Comfort is crucial for any headset, and the new Astro A10 doesn’t completely miss the mark here, but it doesn't exactly hit the bullseye either. Weighing in at 244 grams without the wire, these headphones are remarkably lightweight, which is a significant plus. However, while the ear cups have a range of motion to adjust to your head, the absence of swivel functionality is noticeable, especially for those who are used to having a bit more flexibility.
The adjustability of the headset frame itself is smooth and firm, preventing unwanted sliding during usage. The ear pads and headband are made of a slow-rebound memory foam and covered in a breathable cloth material, adding to the overall comfort of the headset. However, the ear pads may initially feel stiff and require some massaging to break them in. Once accustomed, the softness and plushness are indeed a highlight. But, the ear pads are small, landing them on the ears rather than over them. While they're not painful, their on-ear design may not be what everyone is looking for.
Build Quality: Sturdy with a Caveat
In terms of build quality, the refreshed A10s seem sturdy. You can stretch and twist them without much worry, but there are concerns. The plastic arm that connects the ear cups to the headband feels potentially vulnerable, which could be a concern over time. Overall, they feel solid enough to stand up to regular use.
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Features and Functions: Simple and Effective
The Astro A10 includes a detachable cable with inline volume controls, which is a practical feature for any user. The flip-to-mute microphone provides decent audio quality for in-game chat or calls, although it doesn't provide an overly pronounced feedback click, so you'll have to be conscious of its position to know if you're muted.
Sound Quality: The Comfortable Middle Ground
Astro is known for its signature "fun" sound profile that isn't overly biased towards any part of the audio spectrum. The A10s deliver that balanced experience across various media, from gaming on consoles like Xbox Series X, PS5, and Nintendo Switch, to PCs and even editing videos on a Mac. Bass, mids, and highs mesh to create a pleasant soundstage without overwhelming any particular frequency range.
However, this balanced approach sometimes sacrifices the finer details in sound necessary for competitive gaming. While you can hear directionality in sounds, the mix may become muddy during high-action scenes, leading to some sound cues being lost.
Price versus Performance: A Tough Call at $60
At the price point of $60, the Astro A10s face stiff competition. For instance, Razer's BlackShark V2 X, known for its value and quality, often comes at a similar or even lower cost, making the decision to choose the A10 that much harder.
The refreshed Astro A10s improve upon their predecessor in several ways but still fall short of delivering a compelling reason to choose them over other offerings in the same price bracket. The lack of swivel on the ear cups and the questionable sizing of the ear pads might deter some potential users.
Conclusion: For Young Gamers, Perhaps
Astro's refreshed A10s make noticeable strides in comfort and quality but miss the mark in crucial areas. The headset might suit younger gamers under the age of ten due to its size and simplicity, but for anyone else looking for a full-featured gaming headset, better options are available at this price point.