The new Astro A50 Gen 5 has been revealed by Logitech G and it looks like a dream for Xbox, PS5, and PC players
Seamless platform switching
As part of this year’s Logi Play 2024 event, gaming hardware manufacturer Logitech G has unveiled the Astro A50 Gen 5, a brand new multi-platform gaming headset.
Joining the existing Astro A50 X, the Astro A50 5th Generation Wireless Gaming Headset and Base Station is intended as a streamlined alternative with many of the same premium features. This includes Playsync Audio, which allows for seamless platform switching via a USB-C connection to the headset’s charging base station. The Astro A50 X, in contrast, offers both audio and HDMI video switching together.
The Astro A50 Gen 5 boasts Pro-G Graphene audio drivers, which are also found in the Astro A50 X. I was very impressed with the audio quality of that latter headset in my Astro A50 X review, so this is definitely a good sign. This is in addition to a 48 kHz high-resolution microphone for more clear communication and, potentially, even livestreaming.
In terms of overall design, the Astro A50 Gen 5 looks an awful lot like the Astro A50 X albeit minus the HDMI ports on its base station. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, though, as the Astro A50 X feels robust and is incredibly comfortable to wear thanks to its impressively soft memory foam ear cushions. The Astro A50 Gen 5 does introduce some small red highlights, though, which gives it some distinct flair.
Regarding the reveal of the headset, head of marketing for console and cloud at Logitech G Gabriel Whyel said that “the A50 X has quickly become a fan favorite thanks to its beloved design, premium sound, and advanced Playsync audio and video switching technology for the ultimate living room gaming experience. Our new A50 Gen 5 features Playsync audio that focuses on 3-system audio switching via USB, perfect for multi-platform gamers who have their consoles and PC connected to one or more monitors.”
The Astro A50 Gen 5 is compatible with Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PlayStation 5, PC, and Nintendo Switch. Up to three systems are supported simultaneously and can be switched between in an instant via a button on the headset, which sounds incredibly convenient.
The headset is available to pre-order now via the Logitech G website and costs $299.99 / £299.99, putting it significantly below the $379.99 / £359 price tag of the Astro A50 X.
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Dash is a technology journalist who covers gaming hardware at TechRadar. Before joining the TechRadar team, he was writing gaming articles for some of the UK's biggest magazines including PLAY, Edge, PC Gamer, and SFX. Now, when he's not getting his greasy little mitts on the newest hardware or gaming gadget, he can be found listening to J-pop or feverishly devouring the latest Nintendo Switch otome.