Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 3 Review: Stellar Sound, Flawed Software

The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 3 delivers impressive audio quality and dual-wireless connectivity, though its companion software leaves much to be desired. Priced at $199, this wireless gaming headset stands out with its premium design, comfortable fit, and versatile performance across gaming and music. However, frequent firmware updates and a clunky setup process detract from what could otherwise be a stellar experience.

Design and comfort strike a balance between style and functionality. Available in black, white, and a striking cobalt blue with copper accents, the headset features leatherette-wrapped memory foam padding on both the headband and spacious earcups. Measuring 12 inches when fully extended, it accommodates larger heads comfortably, though its 14.2-ounce weight makes it noticeably heavier than competitors like the Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed. The earcups tilt and swivel for a customized fit, with special consideration for glasses wearers thanks to softer front padding.

Controls are plentiful but somewhat overwhelming. The left earcup houses a programmable Mode button, separate volume wheels for 2.4GHz wireless and microphone sidetone, plus a USB-C charging port. The right side features a Bluetooth pairing button, another volume wheel for Bluetooth audio, and a quick-switch button for alternating between PC and Xbox dongles. While the multiple controls offer flexibility, their layout can feel excessive during regular use.

Audio performance shines with Turtle Beach’s 60mm Eclipse dual drivers delivering a frequency response of 20-20,000 Hz. The sound profile leans toward the typical gaming headset signature – boosted bass and highs that excel at highlighting footsteps and gunshots while providing punchy lows for music. Tracks like Kaskade’s “POW POW POW” demonstrate the headset’s powerful low-end response, while midrange-heavy songs remain clear if not perfectly balanced. The 10-band EQ in Turtle Beach’s Swarm II software allows for sound customization, though the default settings work well for most gaming scenarios.

Gaming performance proves particularly impressive, with precise directional audio in titles like Counter-Strike 2 and rich environmental detail in story-driven games. The passive noise isolation from the large earcups enhances immersion, though the soundstage could be wider. The flip-to-mute microphone performs adequately for voice chat but falls short of dedicated USB mics in clarity and natural tone reproduction.

Software frustrations mar an otherwise excellent package. The Swarm II application requires multiple redundant updates for the headset, dongles, and firmware before allowing access to features. Once past the initial setup, users can adjust EQ settings, program buttons, and configure mic monitoring – but the cumbersome update process creates unnecessary hurdles.

Battery life reaches an impressive 80+ hours per charge, matching premium competitors like the Audeze Maxwell. The inclusion of both PC and Xbox dongles adds versatility, though the inability to use both 2.4GHz connections simultaneously may disappoint some users. Bluetooth connectivity works seamlessly alongside the wireless connection, allowing for mixed audio from two sources – a rare feature implemented well here.

While the Stealth 700 Gen 3 excels in audio quality and build comfort, its software experience and weighty design prevent it from being a flawless recommendation. For gamers prioritizing sound performance and dual connectivity over streamlined operation, it remains a compelling option in its price range.

(Source: Tom’s Hardware)