As part of this year’s Logi Play 2024 event, gaming hardware manufacturer Logitech G unveiled the Astro A50 Gen 5, a brand new multiplatform gaming headset.
The Astro A50 5th Generation Wireless Gaming Headset and Base Station aims to be a streamlined alternative with many of the same premium features as the existing Astro A50 X. This includes Playsync Audio, which enables seamless platform switching via a USB-C connection to the headset’s charging station. The Astro A50 X, on the other hand, offers both audio and HDMI video switching simultaneously.
The Astro A50 Gen 5 features Pro-G Graphene audio drivers, which are also found in the Astro A50 X. I was very impressed with the audio quality of the latter headset in my Astro A50 X review, so that’s definitely a good sign. This is in addition to a 48kHz high-resolution microphone for clearer communication and, potentially, even livestreaming.
In terms of overall design, the Astro A50 Gen 5 looks very similar to the Astro A50 X, albeit without the HDMI ports on the base station. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as the Astro A50 X feels robust and is incredibly comfortable to wear thanks to the impressively soft memory foam earpads. The Astro A50 Gen 5 does introduce a few small red highlights, however, which give it a distinctive flair.
Speaking about the headset’s reveal, Logitech G’s head of marketing for console and cloud Gabriel Whyel said, “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 over USB, perfect for multi-platform gamers with 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 the blink of an eye via a button on the headset, which sounds incredibly convenient.
The headset is now available for pre-order via the Logitech G website and costs $299.99 / £299.99, which is significantly lower than the $379.99 / £359 price of the Astro A50 X.