The Corsair H2100 is a 2.4 GHZ wireless headset and microphone combo re-released under the new Corsair Gaming badge. The H2100 is the wireless cousin of the wired Corsair H1500 which we reviewed recently. The H2100 is priced right at $99.99 on Amazon and has a noise cancelling microphone and microfiber wrapped rotating earcups and Dolby 7.1 surround capable audio drivers.
In The Box
In the box are the H2100 headphones, a charging cable, a USB extender cable and the 2.4ghz receiver and instructional information.The charging cable is longer than the average micro-usb cable. The extra length will allow you to place your headphones in more places while charging. It is a small but welcome addition to the package. My only criticism is that they need to be clearer that the software enables key functionality instead of just recommending the download in the docs because otherwise the set is so plug and play the user may just plug it all in and go.
In The Box Score: 9
Fit & Comfort
The H2100s proved to be quite comfortable for me. The earcups are larger than on many headsets and as such do not rest on your ear lobes which is very much appreciated. The micro-fiber wrapped earcups are comfortable and don’t lead to sweatiness. They provide firm contact with a touch of breathability. The headband padding feels thin to the touch, but when actually worn feels quite good. The only issue with these headphones is they are slightly heavier than other options. This is a minor tradeoff for the wireless freedom.
Fit & Comfort Score: 8
Microphone
The microphone is a sturdy, confidence-inspiring style that flips up. The microphone is designed to stay away from the front of the mouth so you will not blow air across it, but is more than capable of picking up speech. I tested a couple of audio files using Camtasia and was pleased with the reproduction of my voice. The voice was clear and accurate and the microphone did not unduly pick up movement of the boom or my head.
In my personal opinion, this is one of the best microphone designs I have seen on gaming headsets. The boom style reduces user error since it does not allow the user to put the microphone directly in their mouth and the microphone is capable enough to be placed in the appropriate position and record speech. It is an excellent, effective design.
Microphone: 10
Wireless
The wireless aspect of this headphone is critical. Corsair claims a 40 foot range and that is doable. However, I found that the closer the receiver was to the headset the better the wireless connection. At longer distances, or when the receive was attached directly to the desktop, there were occasional audio dropouts.
When using the included extender and placing the wireless receiver under my monitor the wireless was nearly flawless. The 40′ range is nice, but you will spend 99% of your time at your computer and if you use the USB extender Corsair gives you in the box then you won’t have any issues.
Wireless Score: 8
Sound
Note: Install the Software! The software includes EQ settings that allow you to tune the audio to you preferences. The subjective audio experience will almost certainly be improved by the software. This is also where you enable the 7.1 surround sound.
The H2100s have 50mm drivers with 20Hz to 20kHz response. I played Borderlands: The Pre Sequel, Shadow of Mordor and listened to a wide range of musical styles. The H2100s were more than capable of delivering pleasing audio in each of these situations. Subjectively the sound leans towards the bass and highs, but the mid-range is not lacking.
The EQ profiles all target the 8kHz range to be lowered and I found the reference EQ to be excellent with the 8kHz range lowered. It’s going to take a machine to get a more precise rating, but the fact is the H2100s sound good and the software EQ allows for fine tuning that many other headsets don’t.
Sound Score: 9
Wrapping it Up
The Corsair Gaming H2100s are a well made, well rounded and well priced wireless headset. If you are in the market for a new wireless headset then the H2100s should be on your shortlist. They can be yours for $99.99 on Amazon.
Scores
In The Box: 9
Fit & Comfort: 8
Microphone: 10
Wireless: 8
Sound: 9
Overall Score: 9
Note: The review hardware was provided to us by Corsair Gaming.
Published: Nov 3, 2014 04:02 am