Razer’s Barracuda Pro is the latest all-rounder gaming headset

Building on the Barracuda X gaming headset released in 2021, Razer has added two options to its lineup with the new Barracuda and the Barracuda Pro both targeting dual wireless connectivity (2.4GHz over a USB-C port). dongle and Bluetooth) as excellent sound quality. The Pro tops the lineup, available from today for $249.99, and what sets them apart from the mid-range $159.99 Barracuda (along with the $99.99 Barracuda X) are a few things: active noise cancellation, soft leatherette ear cushions (compared to a more breathable woven fabric), and a built-in THX Achromatic Audio Amplifier to deliver more powerful, more accurate sound.

Both new models have larger 50mm drivers (the Barracuda X and several other Razer headsets have 40mm drivers), and instead of a detachable boom mic, there are beamforming mics that offer noise cancellation. Razer is hyped up its SmartSwitch Dual Wireless feature in these new models, which it claims can connect to two devices at once, and you can switch between them by tapping the dedicated button twice if you need to. Personally, I prefer when a headset can play audio from two wireless connections simultaneously, like SteelSeries’ brilliant new Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, but Razer’s solution (though not necessarily unique) should be great if it works well.

Image: Razer

While Razer has earned its place among the greats with its gaming headsets, it still has a lot to prove when it comes to winning over Bose, Beats, or Sony loyalists in the high-end headphone space. I was pleasantly surprised by its 2020 Razer Opus headphones, which offered good build quality and surprisingly good sound for the price. Razer seems to have put even more work into the Barracuda Pro. It chose bio-cellulose drivers, which the company says can “reduce harmonic distortion.” And with bigger drivers, a dedicated amp, and what looks like better controls, I’m looking forward to reading a full review to see if they’re worth the money.