The Blackshark V2, V2 Pro, and Barracuda X are all on sale during Amazon's Prime Day.

B.A. in Journalism & Public Relations with minor in Communications Media from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP)

Calling all gamers: Razer's Blackshark V2(Opens in a new window) , V2 Pro(Opens in a new window) , and Barracuda X(Opens in a new window) headsets are top-rated picks that offer strong audio and mic performance with a comfortable fit, and, during the Prime Early Access Days, a discounted price tag.

Lighter and less bulky than Razer's Kraken and Nari lineups, the sleek Blackshark V2 boasts powerful surround sound thanks to a 7.1-channel USB sound card and software-based THX Spatial Audio. Memory foam in the oval earpads and a faux-leather-covered headband means the headset is comfortable to wear on bigger heads and for longer sessions.

A 6-foot cable terminating in a 3.5mm plug is permanently attached to the bottom of the left earcup, next to a port for attaching the removable boom microphone. The mute button sits behind the headset cable, while a large volume dial is built into the back panel of the ear cup.

The headset comes with a miniscule 7.1-channel USB sound card on a 2-inch cable, with a USB plug on one side and a 3.5mm port on the other. Once connected, the sound card opens the door to functions like Razer Synapse and THX Spatial Audio.

For Prime Day, the Razer Blackshark V2 is $66.49(Opens in a new window) —34% off the $99.99 MSRP.

The Blackshark V2 Pro takes its predecessor's high performance and makes it wireless.

It has the same oblong matte black plastic ear cups connected to the headband through Y-shaped struts, with cylindrical mounts that let each cup slide freely to adjust the fit. The only visual clue that anything is different—aside from its lack of cables—is the Razer logo, now in glossy black instead of neon green.

The boom mic, now a 9.9mm HyperClear Supercardiod microphone, also got an upgrade; the headset's larger capsule rejects even more outside noise, according to the company.

This Windows-compatible PC headset pairs with Razer's Synapse software to provide access to a 10-band EQ with multiple presets, along with separate, tweakable Bass Boost, Sound Normalization, and Voice Clarity features. The microphone gets its own EQ, along with enhancements like Volume Normalization, Vocal Clarity, Ambient Noise Reduction, and an adjustable Voice Gate.

The Blackshark V2 Pro, which can last an estimated 24 hours on a single charge and has a range of nearly 40 feet, is the perfect gift for yourself or a game-obsessed loved one. And it's available now in black or white for $113.99(Opens in a new window) , or 37% off the $179.99 sticker price.

Not all Razer headsets are created equal, though. Which is where the Barracuda X comes in. This wireless device's USB-C transmitter makes it compatible with nearly anything, from your PC or Android phone to PlayStation or Nintendo Switch.

It doesn't stray far from the Blackshark V2, at least in terms of design; the basic black headset's flat ear cups are covered in matte black plastic, while the earpads and headband padding are fabric- and faux-leather-wrapped, respectively.

All controls and ports—including power and mic mute buttons, a volume wheel, a USB-C charging port, and two 3.5mm ports for a wired connection and detachable boom mic—sit along the left ear cup's edge. Included in the box are male-USB-A-to-male-USB-C, male-USB-A-to-female-USB-C, and 3.5mm cables.

The versatile Razer Barracuda X headset is a fantastic value at $59.99(Opens in a new window) —40% off the $99.99 retail cost—and comes in black, white, or pink.

Sign up for our expertly curated Daily Deals newsletter for the best bargains you’ll find anywhere.

This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time.

Your subscription has been confirmed. Keep an eye on your inbox!

B.A. in Journalism & Public Relations with minor in Communications Media from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP)

Reporter at The Frederick News-Post (2008-2012)

Reporter for PCMag and Geek.com (RIP) (2012-present)

PCMag.com is a leading authority on technology, delivering lab-based, independent reviews of the latest products and services. Our expert industry analysis and practical solutions help you make better buying decisions and get more from technology.

© 1996-2022 Ziff Davis. PCMag Digital Group

PCMag, PCMag.com and PC Magazine are among the federally registered trademarks of Ziff Davis and may not be used by third parties without explicit permission. The display of third-party trademarks and trade names on this site does not necessarily indicate any affiliation or the endorsement of PCMag. If you click an affiliate link and buy a product or service, we may be paid a fee by that merchant.