The Logitech G522 wireless headset offers a compelling mix of features at a $160 price point. This in-depth review dives into the comfort, microphone performance, and sound quality of this PC and PlayStation-compatible headset. We'll explore its impressive 90-hour battery life (with RGB off), the convenience of its detachable microphone, and the surprisingly effective DTS spatial audio. But does the G522 live up to the hype? We'll uncover its strengths and weaknesses, including its unique challenges in achieving consistent sound reproduction due to its design.This review scrutinizes the G522's build quality, assessing its adjustable headband, comfortable earcups, and surprisingly lightweight construction. We'll examine the software features offered by Logitech G Hub, including its parametric EQ capabilities, which are crucial for unlocking the headset's true audio potential. Finally, we'll deliver a verdict on whether the Logitech G522 offers a worthwhile combination of comfort, audio performance, and value for its price, acknowledging both its strengths and its limitations for various users.
Pros And Cons
- 40 hours battery life with RGB on, 90 hours with RGB off
- Battery saver mode (80% charging capacity)
- Durable, breathable ear pads
- Excellent glasses comfort
- Removable ear pads
- Well-designed ear pad shape
- Braille markings on earcups for left/right identification
- Detachable microphone boom with built-in windscreen
- High-quality microphone with good fidelity
- Good wireless range (over 50 ft)
- Supports DTS spatial audio (improves immersion)
- Supports parametric EQ
- Easy-to-use power and Bluetooth buttons
- No USB-C support (requires adapters for some devices)
- Headband adjustment is limited and uncomfortable at maximum size
- Headset is unstable and tends to slide off, especially with a smaller head
- Light clamp force may not be suitable for all head sizes
- Limited adjustability of the headband (flexing instead of rotation)
- Lack of noise isolation
- No simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless audio
- No action buttons for music control on Bluetooth
- Suboptimal mid-range and low treble tuning out-of-the-box
- Significant seating variance impacts frequency response
- No game/chat mix
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Pricing and Platform Compatibility
The Logitech G522 headset retails for $160 USD and comes in black or white.
Primarily designed for PC, it also works seamlessly with PlayStation.
However, the lack of USB-C support limits its direct compatibility with Nintendo Switch or Switch 2, requiring adapters.
Specs and Battery Life
The G522 utilizes 40mm dynamic drivers, not the Graphene drivers found in higher-end models.
Despite this, battery life is impressive, boasting 40 hours with RGB enabled and 90 hours with RGB off.
Logitech's G Hub software offers a battery saver mode, limiting charging to 80% to extend battery lifespan.
What's in the Box and Cable
The package includes the headset, a USB-A wireless dongle, and a USB-A to USB-A cable.
The cable allows for both wired and wireless use.
The reviewer expresses disappointment with the lack of USB-C support, considering the prevalence of USB-C on modern devices.
Headband and Comfort
The headset features an adjustable suspension strap, but the reviewer finds the largest setting uncomfortable due to lack of padding.
The headband rests against the hard plastic of the chassis at the largest setting.
The reviewer also notes the headset is light (290g) and has a very light clamp force, making it feel unstable and prone to slipping.
Ear Pads and Build Quality
The ear pads are described as comfortable, durable, breathable, and suitable for glasses wearers.
The material is a sport fabric, less prone to flaking than leatherette.
The reviewer notes the removable earcups, facilitating easy replacement if needed.
Noise Isolation and Microphone
The G522 has minimal noise isolation.
The microphone, however, is praised for its detachable boom, built-in windscreen, and excellent clarity.
The reviewer considers it a class-leading microphone in its price range, rivaling higher-priced options.
Controls and Connectivity
Controls include a slide switch for power, a button to toggle between Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless, and a push-button mute switch.
The headset lacks dedicated buttons for track control or media playback when using Bluetooth.
It supports only one audio source at a time (either Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz).
Wireless Range and Reset Function
The reviewer tests the wireless range and finds it exceeds 50 feet before experiencing issues.
The headset features a reset function accessible by removing the left earcup and pressing a reset pin.
This is praised as a helpful feature for troubleshooting connectivity problems.
Sound Quality and EQ
The reviewer uses a measurement rig to objectively assess sound quality.
The default sound signature is described as bass-heavy but with a wonky mid-range and low treble, resulting in a pinched sound.
However, the headset supports parametric EQ, allowing significant customization via Logitech G Hub software. A custom EQ preset is provided.
Seating Variance and DTS Spatial Audio
A significant issue is identified: the large earcups and loose fit cause frequency response to vary greatly depending on headset placement.
Over 50 measurements showed inconsistent results, emphasizing the need for careful placement and EQ adjustments.
The headset supports DTS spatial audio, which the reviewer finds surprisingly effective in enhancing immersion.
Conclusion and Recommendation
The Logitech G522 offers a comfortable fit (for those with appropriate head size), excellent microphone quality, and long battery life.
The out-of-box sound is underwhelming, requiring EQ adjustments to reach its full potential.
While the headset has some shortcomings (lack of game/chat mix, no simultaneous Bluetooth), its strengths and EQ capabilities make it a decent option for many gamers, especially those willing to fine-tune the sound profile.