Corsair's latest mid-range offering, the HS35 v3 headset, aims to provide a compelling audio experience without breaking the bank. Priced at $80, it competes directly with other budget-friendly options, including the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3X, by packing in a range of features that punch above its weight class.
Design and Comfort
Despite an initially underwhelming plastic construction, the HS35 v3 distinguishes itself with an astonishingly low weight of 250g. This makes it one of the lighter headsets on the market, contributing to comfortable extended wear. The memory foam earcups pivot 90 degrees and fit snugly, while the unique floating headband design offers ample clearance from the solid outer band. Adjusting the fit involves re-attaching the inner floating band to one of three notches, which, while less granular than rail adjustments, proved comfortable for various head sizes during testing. The conservative oval design of the earcups ensures the headset won't look out of place in an office or on public transport, making it a viable option for mixed usage.
Connectivity and Features
The HS35 v3 offers versatile connectivity options. The 2.4 GHz wireless dongle cleverly integrates both USB-A and USB-C connectors. Bluetooth and a USB-C to USB-A wired connection are also supported. However, console gamers should note that there is no 3.5mm jack, meaning direct connection to a gamepad is not possible. The detachable boom microphone is a welcome feature at this price point. Its bendy design allows for easy positioning, and its audio fidelity is notably crystalline when using the 2.4 GHz wireless connection. Microphone quality does degrade over Bluetooth, a common limitation due to the technology's narrower bandwidth.
Audio Performance
The standout feature of the HS35 v3 is its remarkable sound quality, which significantly outperforms its mid-range classification. While not a noise-cancelling headset, the audio is enveloping, aided by the secure fit of the pivoting earcups. The headset delivers powerful bass without sacrificing clarity in the mid-range or the finer environmental details. Testing with complex electronic music and games like The Blood of Dawnwalker revealed that the HS35 v3 handles intricate soundscapes exceptionally well, avoiding clipping or compression artifacts. In-game, directional audio cues like footsteps in R6 Siege are rendered with precision, contributing to an immersive experience.
Limitations
Despite its strengths, the HS35 v3 exhibits characteristics typical of its mid-range status. Onboard controls are minimal, consisting of a volume wheel that doubles as a mic mute button and a single button for toggling connectivity modes and controlling music playback. The headset lacks any supporting software for audio profile customization. Battery life is rated at 30 hours, which is adequate for most users but falls considerably short of premium models offering hundreds of hours. The headset's design is utilitarian, lacking the aesthetic flair or RGB lighting found on more expensive gaming peripherals. While functional, those seeking a flashier aesthetic may need to look elsewhere and allocate a larger budget.
Overall, the Corsair HS35 v3 is a competent and affordable mid-range headset that delivers strong audio performance and comfort. Its no-frills approach means it excels at its core functions without unnecessary embellishments, making it a dependable choice for budget-conscious gamers.