Steam is best known for its digital distribution platform for video games. However, the company has recently ventured into the handheld gaming market with the announcement of the Steam Deck. If you’re a serious gamer, you know that audio plays a crucial role in the overall gaming experience. Hence, it is essential to choose the right audio accessories to maximize the enjoyment of gaming on Steam Deck. This article will review several high-quality audio accessories compatible with this newly released handheld device.
#1 HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset
Renowned for its superior sound quality, the HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset is an optimal choice for Steam Deck users. It comes with a high-grade sound card that produces 7.1 surround sound with distance and depth to enhance your gaming, music, or movie experience. The headset is equipped with 53mm drivers that deliver high-quality sound with crystal-clear, low, mid, and high tones.
For user comfort, the HyperX Cloud II is outfitted with memory foam ear pads and a lightweight leather headband. It also supports Teamspeak, Discord, Skype, Ventrilo, Mumble, and Raidcall, making it ideal for gamers who prefer multiplayer or team-based games.
#2 SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless
If you’re seeking an impeccable combination of comfort, durability, and excellent sound, then look no further than the SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless. Featuring dual wireless technology, this headset provides lossless 2.4G for gaming and Bluetooth for connectivity, ensuring no compromise on the audio quality.
In terms of audio performance, the Arctis Pro comes with Hi-Res speaker drivers that produce top-quality sound with great detail. The headset also boasts DTS:X v2.0 surround sound, allowing gamers to immerse themselves in a more realistic gaming environment.
The icing on the cake is the Arctis Pro’s lightweight steel and aluminum alloy construction, making it comfortable even in marathon gaming sessions.
#3 Razer BlackShark V2 Pro
The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is another excellent audio accessory for the Steam Deck. This wireless headset is known for its advanced TriForce Titanium 50mm drivers that are tuned for 3D audio. The drivers are designed to separate and customize the sound frequencies, thus producing a high-end auditory surrounding.
Razer has also incorporated a supercardioid microphone that reduces background and ambient noises to ensure crystal clear voice communication. Plus, with the addition of THX Spatial Audio, gamers can experience more lifelike sound, making games more immersive and enjoyable.
#4 Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is an excellent choice for gamers who prefer the versatility of a minimalist wired headset. Known for its accurate audio layering and excellent noise isolation, the ATH-M50x possesses rare 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils.
Its circumaural design contours around the ears excellently for superior sound isolation in loud environments. Plus, the headset offers 90-degree swiveling earcups for easy, one-ear monitoring, adding comfort and convenience.
#5 Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Perfect for gamers who value crystal clear sound and noise cancellation, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II is unmatched. Its Acoustic Noise Cancelling technology constantly measures, compares, and reacts to external noise, then cancels it with the opposite signal.
In terms of sound quality, the Bose QC35 II is top-tier. It delivers balanced audio performance at any volume, thanks to the volume-optimized EQ. With the Bose Connect app, users can adjust the level of noise cancellation, unlock Bose AR*, manage Bluetooth connections, and access software updates.
#6 Sennheiser HD 660 S
The Sennheiser HD 660 S is an audiophile-grade open-back, dynamic headphone and an ideal companion for your Steam Deck if you game in quieter environments. Crafted for the passionate audiophile, it delivers exceptional accuracy and natural spatial performance.
Equipped with a new transducer design, the HD 660 S ensures low harmonic distortion while delivering an expressive and emotive sound experience. The headphone’s lightweight aluminum voice coils also ensure high efficiency, excellent dynamics, and extremely low distortion.
Choosing a high-quality gaming audio accessory entirely depends on your gaming preferences and budget. Factors to consider include the audio quality, comfort, and whether you prefer a wired or wireless model. When used with the right audio accessory, the Steam Deck can offer a truly immersive gaming experience.
