Nacon’s RIG R5 Spear Pro HS gaming headset might have an awful name, but there’s actually a surprising amount to love about this midrange product. Targeted at PlayStation users, but compatible with any product sporting a 3.5 mm headphone jack, this audio solution punches well above its weight. After using it for a couple of weeks, across PS5, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC, it’s time for my review.
Cheap and cheerful?
It’s been a while since I tested a sub-$70 gaming headset and I really wasn’t expecting anything special from the RIG R5 Spear Pro HS. However, from the surprisingly excellent unboxing experience, to the solid build quality and comfort, to the fantastic listening experience, it’s great to see budget offerings getting so much better.
The RIG R5 Spear Pro HS doesn’t bombard users with hundreds of features that they may never use. You simply plug the headset in using the 3.5 mm jack, adjust the headband to fit, and then use the in-line volume controls to fine-tune the audio output. The mic mutes when in the raised position, which is always nice to see and reduces the need for another button.
SNAP+LOCK
The SNAP+LOCK system allows for the earcup covers to be swapped. A PlayStation-themed pair is included in the box and they look pretty cool. The idea is for owners to be able to 3D print their own covers or buy new ones from Nacon, though I’m still waiting to see what designs become available. It’s a neat touch and could help make a fairly standard-looking headset stand out more.
Audio test
During my testing in games like Battlefield 6 and Call of Duty, I was pleasantly surprised by the RIG R5 Spear Pro HS’s audio performance. This headset’s 40 mm graphene-coated drivers deliver impressively high-quality sound that is well-tuned.
Additionally, pinpointing the direction of footsteps and gunfire is made easy with a wider-than-expected soundstage. This is likely aided by the excellent-fitting ear pads, which successfully envelope my ear in a comfortable but clear seal. Out of the box, the clamping force is a bit tight, but I found it loosened up nicely after putting the headset over the back of an armchair and leaving it overnight.
Weaknesses
The weakest area of the RIG R5 Spear Pro HS is the microphone. While it is perfectly fine for group chats, sounding clean and rejecting a decent amount of background noise, I wouldn’t be using it for anything beyond that. If you’re thinking of streaming using this mic, I don’t believe it’s good enough for that. With all of that said, when it comes to a mic attached to a 3.5 mm headset, it’s better than I expected.
I do wish that the RIG R5 Spear Pro HS’s 3.5 mm cable was removable and replaceable. This would give it a real longevity boost over time.
Disclosure: Review sample provided by Nacon.
Final Verdict
At $69.99, the Nacon RIG R5 Spear Pro HS offers impressive quality for its price. With solid sound, simple setup, and a few thoughtful design touches, it delivers far more than expected from a budget headset. While not without its flaws, it’s an easy choice for those seeking affordable, reliable performance. Overall, it’s a standout example of how great midrange gaming headsets have become.
Positives and Negatives
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Excellent sound quality for the price
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Comfortable fit after initial adjustment
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Simple plug-and-play setup process
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Solid build qualiry
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SNAP+LOCK system adds customization options
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Good microphone clarity for casual chat
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Great value at under $70
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Clamping force initially too tight
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Non-detachable 3.5 mm cable
