EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset review: Price isn't everything

Historically, quality wireless gaming headsets have been rather expensive. In recent years, however, technology has advanced and we're now seeing an increasing number of marvelous wireless options for under $100. Models like the Xbox Wireless Headset have set a new benchmark for value in the space. Unfortunately, there are some cases where a great price point is just too good to be true.

I recently spent some time with the EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset, which promotes an assortment of premium wireless features for less than $60. While it mostly gets the job done in terms of basic functionality and options for the user, it leaves a lot to be desired in the quality department. You're probably better off paying a bit more for a much better experience.

EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset: Price and availability

Currently the EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset is available for $58 directly through the EasySMX website. While it's tough to compete with the speed of Amazon Prime, EasySMX does offer free standard shipping on most orders within the U.S. The company also frequently provides refererral discounts and promotional codes that can save you even more on your orders.

EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset: What you'll like

In my experience with EasySMX accessories, I've found it often pack tons of bonus features and options for customization into its products. The EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset is no different. In addition to the standard controls you'd expect like convenient access to volume level and microphone mute, the VIP002W also gives the user the ability to activate a wide range of RBG accent lights on either side of the headset. This isn't something that necessarily enhances the overall audio experience, but it's a fun way to add a little flair to your gaming sessions.

When it comes to overall comfort, the EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset demonstrates exemplary attention to detail. The large, comfortable ear cuffs gently cover the entire ear and naturally reduce background noise. The swivel hinges connecting the ear cuffs to the headband also provide enormous flexibility for the wearer. Compared to other wireless headsets I've tried in the past, I appreciated how this small amount of give led to a more pleasant head-feel.

When it comes to accessibility and ease of use with the EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset, I have to commend the product on its impressive wireless range. I was able to travel from my office to my kitchen while wearing the headset without any audio interference. This made my mid-session seltzer runs quick and convenient. While the VIP002W range is officially rated for about 30 feet, in my tests I was able to push it slightly beyond that.

EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset: What you won't like

My harshest criticism of the EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset lies with the microphone. According to the folks I tested multiplayer gaming with on Xbox and PC, the echo they were subjected to was "unbearable." To try and reduce the feedback I was forced to lower the volume on the headset to a level where I could barely hear game audio. The omni-directional microphone array on this headset is way too sensitive. Unless you want to upset your squadmates, I can't recommend using the EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset for voice communication.

In addition to the wildly disappointing microphone, the general audio quality of the EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset sadly isn't something to get excited about either. There's now a whole lot to report in regards to extreme low or high end frequencies, which makes the speakers sound dull and boxy. Explosions in games like The Division 2 lacked any real impact and even simple dialogue in games like It Takes Two were stripped of a huge amount of clarity. I wouldn't necessarily say the sound quality is offensive, but it doesn't impress.

Another minor gripe stems from the wireless compatability of the EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset. The included wireless dongle is easy enough to setup, but only works with PC and PS4. Features like the RGB lights only seem to function when the headset is connected via the wireless dongle, so devices like the Xbox One aren't technically wireless and also lose some of the options available on PC and PS4.

EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset: Competition

While nearly double the price, the Xbox Wireless Headset is simply a better use of your money if you're playing on Xbox or PC. With twice the battery life, Dolby Atmos and 3D audio support, and drastically improved audio quality, there's far more to love about this value-driven wireless headset.

The PDP Gaming LVL50 Wireless Stereo Headset is another fantastic option for players looking for a budget-friendly wireless gaming headset. For only $20 more than the EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset, you can get yourself a solid, sleek alternative. The main drawback here is that this headset doesn't offer the same flexibility when it comes to compatibility.

If you're looking for even more impressive options, be sure to check out our collection of the best wireless headsets for Xbox and PC.

EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if ...

• You want a wireless PC headset for under $60
• You like RGB color customization
• You primarily play single player games

You shouldn't buy this if...

• You want wireless on Xbox
• You need impressive audio quality
• You want a good microphone experience

On paper, the EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset checks a lot of the right boxes. The approachable price point and options for compatibility offer a very appealing value proposition. If $60 is your absolute limit and you don't need to use the microphone, this can certainly provide a mostly adequate gaming experience. Otherwise, it's genuinely hard for me to recommend.

When it comes to the final verdict on the EasySMX VIP002W Wireless Gaming Headset, the cons, unfortunately, outweigh the pros. The incredible wireless range and comfortable ear cushions are squandered by an abymsal microphone and mediocre audio quality. Features like the customizable RGB lights are neat extras, but can't compensate for the obvious shortcomings. While the price is noticeably lower than most of the competition, there are just far too many strings attached for me to consider this a worthy wireless gaming headset.