TL;DR
Razer's BlackShark V3 Pro White Edition is a stylish, officially PlayStation-licensed wireless headset that seriously ups the audio game. Featuring upgraded HyperSpeed Gen-2 tech, Tempest 3D Audio, and THX Spatial Audio, expect pinpoint sound for gaming and rich, dynamic audio for everything else. It's comfortable with breathable earcups, boasts a clear detachable mic, and a super-convenient SmartSwitch for easy device hopping. Plus, with an insane battery life (48 hours on PS, 70 on PC) and fast charging, you'll rarely be caught without power. Ready to dive into the full details of this premium audio powerhouse?
Reviewing products from the renowned brand Razer is consistently a positive experience, as they combine stylish design with high quality. For this review, we’ve evaluated the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro White Edition, a wireless headset designed for PlayStation and officially licensed by Sony. Given these credentials, expectations for its performance are high. We have previously tested the Razer BlackShark V2, and the V3 introduces several notable improvements – including the upgraded Razer HyperSpeed Gen-2 technology.
What’s in the box?
The package includes:
- The Razer HyperSpeed Wireless Gen 2 dongle
- USB A to USB C cable
- 3.5 mm TRRS analog to USB C converter cable
- A user manual, recommended for initial setup
- The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro White Edition headset itself
For those who prefer a darker aesthetic, the model is also available in black. The white version, however, offers an aesthetic synergy with white PlayStation consoles, contributing to a cohesive and polished overall impression.
Comfort and design
Weighing approximately 367 grams, the headset provides a stable yet comfortable fit. Its stylish design is complemented by a generally pleasant user experience. Its comfort is attributed to the breathable Dual layered FlowKnit memory foam cushions that conform to the head and create a tight seal without excessive pressure. However, after extended gaming sessions, a slight warmth around the ears may be a factor for some users, while others might find it negligible. This is largely a matter of personal preference; however, the cushions are of high quality and contribute positively to the overall experience.
The microphone is a 12 mm detachable boom microphone with impressive sound quality. Ideal for clear communication, it is equally easy to detach for users who prefer solo gaming sessions.
The Sound Experience
In audio performance, Razer has clearly prioritized a premium experience. The headset is equipped with Next Gen Surround Sound, powered by Tempest 3D Audio and THX Spatial Audio. This enables users to discern subtle audio cues, such as footsteps in Warzone, and accurately pinpoint their origin. The drivers are Razer’s 50 mm TriForce Titanium drivers, which deliver clear and detailed audio with distinct separation between bass, midrange, and treble. Explosions are rendered with powerful intensity, while voices and dialogue remain distinct within the soundscape.
When it comes to music and movies, the headset delivers rich and dynamic sound, though treble reproduction can occasionally be prominent at higher volumes. This can be adjusted via Razer’s Synapse software on PC, allowing users to fine-tune EQ settings. The headset handles low frequencies effectively, avoiding the muddiness characteristic of some gaming headsets. For competitive players, the soundscape is optimized to provide an advantage through precise positional audio.
The noise cancellation feature effectively blocks out distracting ambient sounds. Distinguishing itself from many competitors, Razer has integrated a sidetone function, allowing users to hear their own voice, which is adjustable via a dedicated scroll wheel conveniently located on the headset.
Physical Buttons and Controls
The BlackShark V3 Pro features a comprehensive array of controls strategically integrated into its earcups. On one earcup, users will find the conventional volume wheel for on-the-fly audio adjustments, alongside the power button, which activates the headset rapidly. Also present is the microphone mute button, an essential feature for quickly silencing audio transmission during intense communications. The ANC function has a dedicated button, allowing users to instantly engage noise cancellation for immersive gameplay. For users connecting to multiple devices, the SmartSwitch function offers significant convenience, enabling seamless transitions between 2.4 GHz wireless mode, Bluetooth, or other connected sources with a single press. The controls are discreet yet responsive, and users can quickly familiarize themselves with their layout, even during intense gaming sessions.
Impressive Battery Life
The battery life is generous, offering:
- 48 hours on PlayStation
- Up to 70 hours on PC
Should charging be overlooked, the headset mitigates this concern with its fast-charging capabilities, delivering six hours of playtime from just 15 minutes of charging, ideal for impromptu gaming sessions.
Conclusion
The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro White Edition is more than just a stylish headset aesthetically complementing your console. It delivers a premium audio experience, complemented by extended battery life, superior comfort, and intelligent features that offer practical enhancements. Whether seeking precise audio in competitive gaming or simply desiring high-quality sound for entertainment, this headset performs commendably across all applications.
RAZER sent review samples for this test. Material providers have no editorial influence on our tests; our reviews are conducted independently, prioritizing the interests of our readers and consumers.
