GamesRadar+ Verdict
The Corsair HS80 Max does exactly what a mid-range headset should.
This thing nails the basics with a rich soundstage and excellent balancing, but can struggle in other areas.
Corsairs HS80 headset delighted back in 2021.
Design
At first glance, the Max could be indistinguishable from the previousCorsair HS80 RGBrelease.
This band is adjustable via velcro pads on the underside of the main plastic bridge.
Its also a little slimmer than other ski bands, most notably those fromSteelSeries.
That trade-off doesnt come with too many sacrifices either.
Features
The Corsair HS80 Max doesnt do anything too crazy with its feature list.
However, there are a couple of additional extras included here that you might not find on competing models.
This would be a much bigger deal if the microphone had been detachable, though.
Still, the battery life could keep up with both gaming and everyday roles.
A second week of testing solely on a 2.4GHz connection did yield lower results.
Booting up the iCue software also reveals another fancy addition to the Maxs soundstage; SoundID.
For me, that meant bumping up the power of lower ranges and expanding room in the mids.
Performance
Straight out of the box, the Corsair HS80 Max performs particularly well.
Theres a richer tone to this audio than Ive heard before, with emphasis on the lower mid-range.
That warmth does mean you lose a little power in the upper ranges.
In experiences where the HS80 Max can shine, it does.
Watching the Brotherhood of Steel descend for the first time through the HS80 Maxs was a particularly impressive ordeal.
Theres a texture to the mid-range that is often difficult to balance.
The microphone is a little jarring in comparison.
This is a weaker mic that will simply get the job done rather than providing high-end broadcast-quality sound.
Its far flatter than theRazer BlackShark V2 Pros model and has a little more noise so its profile overall.
Should you buy the Corsair HS80 Max?
The latter is currently my top pick for the best headset for most players.
If you just want your gaming headset to stay on your desk, the BlackShark is the better option.
However, if youre going to take your cups out and about, Corsair does still have an edge.
For more information onhow we test gaming headsets, check out the fullGamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.
Or, take a look at thebest PS5 headsetsif youre after something more console-focused.
