Astro A20 X Review: The Ultimate Headset for Console & PC Gamers
▼ Summary
– The Astro A20 X is essentially a rebranded Logitech G522 Lightspeed headset, adding a new platform-switching feature but lacking the distinctive Astro design aesthetic.
– Its key new feature is the Playsync base, which allows the headset to connect to two systems simultaneously, enabling instant switching between them with a button press.
– The headset retains the excellent sound quality, comfortable fit, and high-quality detachable microphone of the Logitech G522 Lightspeed model.
– It is priced higher than the Logitech G522, making its value dependent on whether a user needs the convenience of the platform-switching feature.
– For users who do not frequently switch between systems, the original Logitech G522 or alternatives like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 may offer better value.
For gamers who split their time between a console and a PC, finding a headset that seamlessly bridges both worlds can be a challenge. The Astro A20 X directly addresses this need with its innovative platform-switching feature, making it a uniquely convenient choice for multi-system setups. It builds upon the solid foundation of the Logitech G522 Lightspeed, a headset already praised for its audio quality, but adds a significant layer of practicality for those who game across different devices.
At its core, this headset delivers the same excellent performance as its Logitech sibling. The sound profile is well-balanced and clear, though some may find the bass a bit light straight out of the box. This is easily remedied through the robust Logitech G Hub software, where you can fine-tune the EQ to your liking or select from numerous community-made presets. On PC, DTS Headphone:X spatial audio support provides an immersive experience, especially in narrative-driven games. The detachable 48kHz microphone captures voice with impressive clarity, perfect for team chats, and includes a handy red LED mute indicator.
Comfort is another strong suit. The headset is lightweight yet feels durable, with plush earcups and a soft headband that make long gaming sessions easy to endure. While the design may appear somewhat bulky, the overall wearing experience is highly positive.
The major upgrade, and the primary reason to consider the A20 X over the G522, is the new Playsync base and its seamless switching capability. This compact dongle connects via two USB Type-C cables to different systems, like a PlayStation 5 and a PC. A simple tap of a small button on the headset instantly swaps the audio between them, a fantastic quality-of-life improvement for anyone using a shared display. The base includes helpful switches and labels to configure it for Xbox, PlayStation, PC, or Nintendo Switch.
However, the Astro branding feels somewhat incongruous. The headset lacks any distinct Astro visual identity, sporting the same Logitech G logo as the G522 Lightspeed instead. For fans of the Astro aesthetic seen in models like the A50 X, this model may seem like it’s lost a bit of its soul.
Priced at $179.99, it sits about $20 above the Logitech G522 Lightspeed. Whether that premium is justified depends entirely on how much you value the platform-switching convenience. If you regularly jump between a console and computer, the A20 X is a compelling, hassle-free solution. If you primarily use a single device, manually moving a single dongle with the G522 is a minor inconvenience that will save you money. At this price, alternatives like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless, which is significantly cheaper but lacks the dual-system feature, also enter the conversation.
In performance testing across months of use with titles ranging from fast-paced shooters to immersive adventures, the headset proved reliable. Battery life consistently reached over 40 hours with lighting enabled, and the platform switching worked flawlessly without any noticeable lag or pairing issues. The microphone performed well, though enabling noise cancellation in the software is recommended to minimize background sound.
Ultimately, the Astro A20 X carves out a specific niche. It takes a proven, high-quality audio product and enhances it with a genuinely useful feature for a particular type of gamer. Its value proposition is crystal clear: if your gaming life is split across platforms, this headset’s seamless switching is a game-changer worth the extra investment. If not, the nearly identical and less expensive Logitech G522 Lightspeed remains an outstanding choice.
(Source: techradar)
