TheRazerKraken range is iconic.
Design
I remember the Krakens of yore, and they were chunky.
The V4 almost feels lithe compared to these older releases, with a far more streamlined look and feel.
I never felt any ear-pinching during longer sessions as a result.
While traditionally considered the cheaper option, I much prefer this material.
Despite its $179.99 / 179.99 MSRP, this is an all-plastic gear.
As it is, I can ignore the pressure for around three hours before needing a break.
Denser, heavier materials would have easily made this too uncomfortable to use for sessions over an hour.
Plus, the Razer Kraken V4 still feels as durable as I would expect from a more premium build.
The microphone is neatly hidden inside the left cup, ready to be extended from its nook whenever required.
This is a fantastic design, but Razer hasnt quite pulled it off as well as SteelSeries.
Yeah, I know, I must be fun at parties.
These profiles are a little janky, for want of a better word.
Running the program direct on aRazer Blade 14is still pretty demanding.
Ive had to stop it running in the background altogether during day-to-day tasks, to keep everything zippy.
Its still a solid pickup, but theres less richness and energy to the voice.
The volume dial is a little too easy to hit, though.
Directional audio isnt quite as pinpoint-precise as that of the BlackShark.
This lack of low-range emphasis was most noticeable in Doom Eternal.
Demon screeches balanced beautifully with more powerful weapon sounds, and the soundtrack finally had the space it needed.
Its in slower, more ambient moments that the Kraken V4 impressed the most, though.
Smaller environmental noises were given ample space to ring through with clarity and terrifying ambience.
Should you buy the Razer Kraken V4?
Ill start with the good here.
It just doesnt do enough to satisfy the Razer tax.
For more information onhow we test gaming headsets, check out the fullGamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.
Were also rounding up all thebest PS5 headsetson the market, as well as thebest Xbox Series X headsetsavailable.
Or, for something more portable, check out thebest gaming earbudsavailable now.
