The Steam Deck Audio Accessories market offers a wide range of products to augment your portable gaming experience. Below, we will be reviewing a selection of headphones, earbuds, and Bluetooth speakers compatible with the Steam Deck, based on audio quality, comfort, durability, and value for money.
1. Sony WH-1000XM4: Best Over-Ear Headphones
Sony WH-1000XM4 boasts dynamic sound quality and comfortable fit, making it a top pick amongst gamers. A standout feature is its advanced noise-cancelling technology. Whether playing on the couch or on the go, these headphones ensure total immersion by tuning out ambient noise. The 30-hour battery life is impressive, reducing interruptions during extended gaming sessions. The touch-sensitive controls are intuitive, adjusting the volume and skipping tracks with a simple swipe. And with quick charging, ten minutes of charge provides five hours of playtime.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 delivers on sound quality as well. The 40mm drivers with Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) diaphragms deliver rich, crisp audio, while the Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE Extreme) elevates compressed digital music files in real-time, enhancing the clarity of in-game sounds.
2. Bose QuietComfort 35 II: Comfort and Noise Cancellation King
Bose QuietComfort 35 II brings top-notch sound quality and brilliant noise cancellation into an extremely comfortable set of headphones. These headphones are remarkably lightweight and have plush ear cups, ensuring comfortable gaming marathons. The dual-microphone system shields you from any distractions, while the Active EQ and TriPort technology deliver a cinematic soundstage that brings your games to life.
The integrated Bose AR technology offers a unique audio-only augmented reality feature, providing games an intriguing new dimension. With 20 hours of battery life and hassle-free Bluetooth pairing, these headphones meld practicality and performance seamlessly.
3. PowerA Fusion Pro Wired Controller: Wire-In Audio Control
Combining superior audio control with a high-performance game controller, PowerA Fusion Pro is a unique accessory for the Steam Deck. This wired controller has a built-in 3.5mm audio jack that supports various wired headphones and earbuds. Also, it comes with integrated volume controls, providing easy audio adjustments during gameplay. The audio quality may largely depend on the wired headphones used; nonetheless, the convenience and audio control features it offers are unmatched.
4. Jabra Elite Active 75t Earbuds: Ideal Wireless Compact Solution
For gamers favoring compactness and minimalism, Jabra Elite Active 75t earbuds are a worthy contender. These wireless earbuds deliver vivid, powerful sound in a pocket-sized package. They are equipped with active noise cancellation and customizable EQ settings through the Jabra Sound+ app.
The 7.5 hours of battery life can be extended to 28 hours with the charging case, alleviating the need for frequent charging. Enhanced durability with the IP57-rated waterproof design ensures they withstand sweaty hands and accidental spills. While voice clarity during multiplayer games may vary, these earbuds are perfect for solitary gamers who value small form-factor audio accessories.
5. Razer Hammerhead Pro: Gaming Optimized Earbuds
The Razer Hammerhead Pro is a gamer-centric in-ear accessory that packs a punch despite its small size. These earbuds feature latency-free Bluetooth connection, providing a seamless wireless gaming experience. The Audio Mode Switcher allows gamers to toggle between THX Spatial Audio, Gaming Mode, and Quick Attention Mode to suit their gaming needs.
The 20-hour battery life accompanied by fast-charging capabilities ensures extended gaming without interruption. In addition, the silicone earbud sleeves and ear wings offer a secure and comfortable fit for all-day use.
6. Ultimate Ears BOOM 3: Portable Bluetooth Speaker Option
While headphones and earbuds dominate the Steam Deck audio accessory scene, Bluetooth speakers like the Ultimate Ears BOOM 3 shouldn’t be overlooked. This compact, portable speaker delivers a 360-degree sound experience, enhancing the auditory immersion. It sports an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, making it a robust choice for avid gamers.
The estimated 15-hour battery life allows long gaming sessions without constant charging. Additionally, the one-touch mix button lets you navigate your playlists effortlessly. While it lacks advanced gaming features, the BOOM 3 is a solid choice for gamers seeking to convert their Steam Deck into a home gaming console.
When it comes to picking the right Steam Deck audio accessory, consider what your priorities are: sound quality, comfort, battery life, or even aesthetic appeal. The products reviewed here represent the best in each category, offering a range of options to enhance your Steam Deck gaming experience.
