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JBL Quantum 50 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£25
Avg. price in US: ~$30
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

JBL Quantum 50 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

6.4

Good

5.8

Good

8.9

Excellent

2.1
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
2.1
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
10
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
3.8
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
8.0
Companion app
7.2
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
Weight
24.0%
10
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

Verdict

The JBL Quantum 50 is a wired in-ear gaming headset featuring 8.6mm dynamic drivers with a frequency response of 20Hz – 20kHz, 16-ohm impedance, and 97dB sensitivity. Its primary characteristics include the JBL QuantumSOUND Signature for detailed audio, patented Twistlock technology for a secure and comfortable fit, and an inline voice-focus microphone optimized for multiplayer chat. Key pros are its lightweight 21.5g design, multi-platform compatibility via a 3.5mm jack, and convenient inline controls with a dedicated volume slider and mic-mute switch. However, some users report cons such as discomfort or ear fatigue during very long sessions, average microphone quality that can sound slightly muffled, and a cable length that may be too short for certain desktop PC setups.

Technical Specifications of JBL Quantum 50

Overall score

6.4

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

5.3

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Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

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Calls & Controls

4.9

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Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

?

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Connectivity

6.2

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Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Features

5.1

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Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

8.7

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Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

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Design

8.2

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

JBL

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

in-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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JBL Quantum 50 vs the average headphone

Why is JBL Quantum 50 better than the average headphone?

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Hi-Res Audio certification
JBL Quantum 50 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
What it is: Certified for high-resolution audio playback
When it matters: When official support for high-resolution playback matters to you.
Importance: LOW
JBL Quantum 50 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
Spatial audio support
JBL Quantum 50 supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
What it is: Supports immersive surround sound playback
When it matters: When movies, games, and immersive mixes are part of your listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
JBL Quantum 50 supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
90.1% lower weight
JBL Quantum 50 is lighter than the average headphone (21.5 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <150 g
JBL Quantum 50 is lighter than the average headphone (21.5 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.21.5 g vs 218 g
Direct 3.5 mm plug
JBL Quantum 50 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones end in a built-in 3.5 mm male plug instead of relying on a separate detachable cable.
When it matters: When direct wired compatibility with older devices or adapters matters.
Importance: MEDIUM
JBL Quantum 50 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
JBL Quantum 50 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
What it is: Controls available on in-line remote of wired cable
When it matters: When your wired setup depends on cable-mounted buttons or call controls.
Importance: LOW
JBL Quantum 50 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
USB-C charging
JBL Quantum 50 uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
What it is: Uses USB-C connector for charging or data
When it matters: When you want to charge with the same cable family used by your phone, tablet, laptop, or other daily devices.
Importance: LOW
JBL Quantum 50 uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
Quick mic mute
JBL Quantum 50 includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
What it is: Ability to mute microphone during calls
When it matters: When you need to silence the mic quickly during meetings or multiplayer games.
Importance: LOW
JBL Quantum 50 includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
Water resistance
JBL Quantum 50 is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
IPX5
What it is: Protection level against water exposure
When it matters: When workouts, commuting, or outdoor use expose the headphones to moisture.
Importance: MEDIUM
JBL Quantum 50 is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
90.1% lower weight
JBL Quantum 50 is lighter than the average headphone (21.5 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Water resistance
JBL Quantum 50 is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
Hi-Res Audio certification
JBL Quantum 50 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
Spatial audio support
JBL Quantum 50 supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
USB-C charging
JBL Quantum 50 uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
JBL Quantum 50 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
JBL Quantum 50 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Quick mic mute
JBL Quantum 50 includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.

Calls & Controls

Why is JBL Quantum 50 worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
JBL Quantum 50 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
No travel bag
JBL Quantum 50 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
31.4 mm smaller driver size
JBL Quantum 50 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (8.6 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
5 dB/mW lower sensitivity
JBL Quantum 50 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (97 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
JBL Quantum 50 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
6 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
JBL Quantum 50 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (97 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
95% lower input power handling
JBL Quantum 50 has a lower max input power than the average headphone (5 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
31.4 mm smaller driver size
JBL Quantum 50 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (8.6 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.
Importance: MEDIUM
JBL Quantum 50 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (8.6 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.8.6 mm vs 40 mm
Fixed cable
JBL Quantum 50 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: MEDIUM
JBL Quantum 50 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
5 dB/mW lower sensitivity
JBL Quantum 50 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (97 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
JBL Quantum 50 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (97 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.97 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
2 Hz weaker bass extension
JBL Quantum 50 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
JBL Quantum 50 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.20 Hz vs 18 Hz
No travel bag
JBL Quantum 50 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
What it is: Comes with a protective carrying case or pouch
When it matters: When protection in transit matters right out of the box.
Importance: LOW
JBL Quantum 50 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
6 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
JBL Quantum 50 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (97 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
What it is: Output loudness level of the headphones, usually measured in dB. It helps compare how loud a model can play under similar conditions.
When it matters: When you need a rough idea of how loud the headphones can get before you pair them with a weaker source.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=108 dB SPL
JBL Quantum 50 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (97 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.97 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL
95% lower input power handling
JBL Quantum 50 has a lower max input power than the average headphone (5 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
What it is: Maximum input power the drivers can safely handle
When it matters: When you pair the headphones with stronger sources or dedicated gear.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=300 mW
JBL Quantum 50 has a lower max input power than the average headphone (5 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.5 mW vs 100 mW

Graphic comparison of JBL Quantum 50 and

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about JBL Quantum 50?

Good directional and positional audio for gaming, helping to pinpoint footsteps and movements
Clear microphone quality with a separate in-line placement that sits closer to the mouth
Effective Twistlock technology provides a secure fit that stays in place even during movement
Lightweight and comfortable design suitable for long gaming or listening sessions
Universal 3.5mm compatibility with various platforms including PC, consoles, and mobile devices

What customers dislike about JBL Quantum 50?

Build quality issues, with reports of one side failing or cable damage within a few months of use
Noticeable cable noise (microphonics) when the cord rubs against clothing
Chunky driver housing may be uncomfortable or provide a poor fit for users with smaller ears
Lack of sub-bass and 'airiness' in high frequencies makes it less ideal for critical music listening
Potential audio balance issues where one side becomes quieter than the other over time
Passive noise isolation is considered mediocre by some reviewers

Expert reviews

saiganak.com

11/11/2020

Quick Tips for the JBL Quantum 50

The Saiga NAK review highlights the JBL Quantum 50 as high-value wired gaming earphones, praising their clear audio, punchy bass, and stable, comfortable fit during long sessions. While delivering excellent sound for the price, the intense bass signature can sometimes mask critical in-game environmental cues, prompting a recommendation to lower in-game background music.

designreviews.com

13/12/2021

JBL Quantum 50 Wired Gaming Earphones - Design Reviews

The JBL Quantum 50 is a battery-free, wired in-ear gaming earphone designed with a 45-degree angled 3.5mm audio jack, making it a reliable choice for long stationary desk sessions on laptops, smartphones, or tablets. It is highly praised for its unique physical design, including a specialized wire management channel for "Mono" mode, durable fabric sheath wiring below the controller,...Read more

gadgetbytenepal.com

19/07/2021

JBL Quantum 50 Review: A Bold Gaming Earphone

The JBL Quantum 50 is a wired, budget-focused gaming earphone featuring 8.6mm dynamic drivers and Twistlock technology designed to keep the earbuds firmly sealed in place. On the positive side, it delivers an impressive gaming performance with clean mids, crisp highs, and highly decent positional audio that lets you pinpoint enemy movements in shooters. It also features a dedicated,...Read more

cgmagonline.com

02/07/2021

An In-Depth Look at the JBL Quantum 50 & 800

The JBL Quantum 800 is a premium, bulky over-ear wireless headset ($300) designed for high-fidelity gaming on platforms like the PlayStation 4, featuring 50mm memory-foam padded ear cups and custom RGB lighting. It excels with lag-free 2.4G wireless pairing, rich audio clarity across a 20Hz–20kHz frequency response, and an omnidirectional microphone that provides a clear vocal...Read more

shanethegamer.com

19/09/2020

JBL Quantum 50 Earphones Review

The JBL Quantum 50 earphones provide a highly comfortable, mobile-focused audio experience that rivals the quality of larger, over-head headsets. Reviewer Shane Thomas highlights that the earbuds feature ultra-soft, skin-like silicone plugs that remain exceptionally comfortable during extended gaming sessions on mobile devices and the Nintendo Switch. Built for convenient...Read more

nickbait.com

08/05/2021

JBL Quantum 50 In-Ear Gaming Headset Review

The JBL Quantum 50 In-Ear Gaming Headset Review by content creator Nickbait highlights the product as a successful expansion into the mobile and portable audio space. Shifting from traditional over-ear designs, this model specifically targets mobile gamers, Nintendo Switch users, and on-the-go audiophiles looking for a budget-friendly option. The reviewer frames this release as...Read more

maxi-geek.com

20/09/2021

JBL Quantum 50 Headset Review", "JBL Quantum 50 Headset - Review

The JBL Quantum 50 earbuds deliver an exceptionally comfortable, snug fit and clear, crisp audio performance that punches well over its weight class. Despite an unusual, geometric outer design and an off-center inner portion that looks unappealing at first glance, the hardware conforms perfectly to the ear. This design ensures they remain firmly in place without causing soreness...Read more

soundguys.com

14/09/2023

JBL Quantum 50 review: Portable gaming earbuds

The JBL Quantum 50Go is a comfortable, budget-friendly wired earbud option for mobile and console gaming, featuring a useful inline control unit with a physical microphone mute switch and volume slider. They offer decent audio quality with elevated low-end frequencies, though they lack dedicated hardware for robust virtual surround sound. However, the 3.5mm cable is too short for...Read more

gameit.es

23/12/2024

JBL Quantum 50N, full review

The JBL Quantum 50N is a budget-friendly set of in-ear gaming headphones specifically designed with a Nintendo Switch aesthetic, featuring the console's signature color scheme on the earbuds and integrated controller. Technically, it utilizes 8.6 mm drivers with JBL’s QuantumSOUND Signature, providing a frequency response of 20Hz – 20KHz and a sensitivity of 97 dB. A standout design...Read more

spaziogames.it

01/04/2026

Best gaming earbuds: April 2026 ranking

The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds stand out as the top overall wireless gaming earbuds, featuring low-latency 2.4 GHz connectivity for PS5, PC, and Nintendo Switch alongside Bluetooth 5.3. They offer active noise cancellation (ANC), a 10-hour battery life (up to 40 hours with the case), and over 100 customizable audio presets. Pros include versatile cross-platform compatibility,...Read more

soundguys.com

14/09/2023

JBL Quantum 50 Review: Portable Gaming Earphones

The JBL Quantum 50 wired earbuds are highlighted as a budget-friendly option for on-the-go gamers, offering a strong, balanced sound profile and useful physical inline controls for microphone muting and volume adjustment. Despite the positive audio performance, the review notes cons such as the average-quality, slightly muffled microphone and potential friction noise from the...Read more

dailynintendo.nl

27/09/2024

JBL Quantum 50C Review – Affordable earbuds for handheld gaming

The JBL Quantum 50C is a budget-friendly set of wired earbuds priced just under €30, designed specifically for mobile and handheld gaming, such as on the Nintendo Switch or smartphones. It features a native 3.5mm audio jack connectivity alongside a USB-C adapter to ensure broad compatibility across multiple platforms. Visually, the earbuds and the inline remote appear bulky, which...Read more

gameliner.nl

29/09/2024

JBL Quantum 50C - Rock-solid earbuds

The JBL Quantum 50C is a budget-friendly, wired in-ear gaming headset priced at approximately €25 to €30, offering an affordable alternative to premium wireless options. It is designed primarily for console and handheld gamers who plug directly into a controller. A key upgrade over its predecessor is its dual connectivity, supporting both a 3,5mm audio jack and a USB-C connection....Read more

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