Logitech have made a name for themselves in the tech accessories market for dependable, well-built but ultimately pretty safe devices. There’s rarely any going out on a limb for Logitech, and its a strategy that’s worked out quite well for them. Their G433 gaming headset is no exception.
The G433 7.1 Wired Surround Gaming Headset does everything it says on the tin. It features 7.1 surround sound on PC and VR headsets used with PC’s, but drops to standard Stereo audio when used with a console, Mac or mobile phone.
In terms of sound quality, it’s quite good across the board. At $170 AUD, it’s probably one of the more middle-of-the-road 7.1 wired headsets out there. Audio balance is fairly well tuned, with bass tones that are deep and resonant but not to the point where they obliterate the higher range sound. The higher range is perhaps a little on the tinny side for my taste, but if you’re not a relentless audio snob like me then its likely you won’t be too bothered.
The real standout here for me is the microphone, which is not only Discord certified but is also very clever about how it differentiates background noise from speech. My HyperX Cloud Alphas pick up EVERYTHING from construction noise outside to my ceiling fan on the lowest setting. The Logitech G433’s only pick up my voice. Further, once in game, the headset feeds your voice back through the headphones so you can hear yourself speak while using them and don’t spend the whole time yelling because the cups eliminate all outside sound. It’s clear, its unobtrusive, great stuff.
Design-wise, Logitech are really angling for the Beats crowd. Their look is very similar to the Beats Pro, as are their colour choices (the set we were sent for review are the red pictured above). I’m not knocking it — it’s a nice design and if you’re going to ape anyone’s look, Beats are the ones to take your cues from. It’s also quite lightweight, which if you’ve ready any of headset reviews before you’ll know is very important to me. The heavier a headset is, the shorter your gaming session is going to be and for this to be both hardy and light is a big tick in its favour for me.
What I don’t love about the design is the material Logitech have chosen to pad the cups with. The padding is great, they sit very comfortably on the head, but the material used on the ear covers is harsh and quite scratchy. It’s certainly going to be robust and they wont suffer from wear-and-tear as easily as other headsets but you may find it a bit prickly. Going back to my leather-bound Cloud Alphas and even my cloth-covered Sennheiser 598s for comparison felt like heaven. This is the lone design misstep in an otherwise really smart looking headset.
While the 433s won’t be an earthshattering experience for anyone used to high-tier headsets, those looking for a headset sans the Razer bells-and-whistles will be well served. It’s a solid headset, with good sound, a great mic, sturdy build quality and a nice look.
Score: 7.5 out of 10
Highlights: Good look; Good sound; Good fit; Lightweight
Lowlights: Why do the earcups feel like they’re made out of burlap Logitech, why?
Manufacturer: Logitech
Price: $169.95 AUD
Available: Now
Review conducted on a headset provided by the manufacturer.
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