Nacon 900 MAX HS PS5 Gaming Headset Review

The Nacon 900 MAX HS headset is the latest addition to the 900 range, tuning the features of the previously-reviewed HX to the PlayStation 5 audience. It’s a flagship gaming headset with a flagship price, but can it deliver the premium listening experience that I expect? Here is my review.

Dual-mode wireless

With its dual-mode wireless connectivity, which allows both 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth 5.2 connections, the Nacon 900 MAX HS boasts flexibility that makes it suitable for low-latency gaming (with 2.4 GHz) and low battery draining music or movie listening with Bluetooth. It’s great to have both options here.

40mm drivers are the expected standard for higher-end gaming headsets nowadays, so it’s good to see Nacon checking the box there. Curiously, the 900 MAX HS sounds distinctly different to my review sample of the 900 MAX HX, which I had criticised for lacking in punchy bass and present mids. This HS model sounds significantly better.

Perhaps my HX sample was faulty? Or perhaps the HS has been tweaked to sound better? Either way, this new model’s sound has impressed me a lot more.

Respectable sound

The 900 MAX HS performs well in audio-critical games like Call of Duty, where pinpointing enemy footsteps is crucial. Sound positioning is good, but the audio also remains fun, with explosions being particularly satisfying.

Other big highlights of the 900 MAX HS include comfort, as I wore it for multiple 3+ hour gaming sessions with no issues whatsoever, and battery life, with up to 50 hours of low-latency gaming via 2.4 GHz. Though the sound quality of the mic is suitable for voice chat and not much more, the flip-to-mute function works well and is appreciated.

The mobile app is also surprisingly functional, allowing for customization options that some users will find useful. Of course, many users will choose to stick to the stock experience and never install the app, which I’m happy to say results in a perfectly fine experience. Installing the app is not mandatory for good-quality sound.

Areas of improvement

When it comes to downsides, the Nacon 900 MAX HS might sound better than the HX variant that I’ve reviewed previously, but it’s still not as good as competing headsets in this price range. It’s not bad, by any means, but the high price makes me expect more. A price drop to below $200 would make it easier to recommend.

Materials-wise, the 900 MAX HS is also lacking. It feels a little cheap, which doesn’t give the best first impression. While I haven’t had any issues with durability, I would be very careful when using and storing this headset to avoid any unfortunate damage.

Disclosure: Review sample provided by Nacon.