Priced at $279, the EPOS H3PRO Hybrid headset manages to deliver top-notch audio quality, in addition to an incredible level of comfort like EPOS' H6PRO gaming headset before it. The H3PRO Hybrid is ed across a wide variety of devices, functioning with a dongle or USB cable on PC, PS4, and PS5. Meanwhile, a 3.5mm cable can also connect the headset to Mac, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S platforms.
Fortunately, the setup process couldn't be any simpler. Bluetooth connectivity works like a charm as the tiny dongle instantly syncs with the headset once it's powered on. Overall functionality is nothing short of a breeze, too, thanks to several quality of life features. For example, a voice details the H3PRO Hybrid's charge level after the player turns on or plugs in the device for charging purposes, while controlling sound levels merely requires one to adjust the volume wheel attached to the right headphone.
The sleek design of EPOS' latest H3 series device serves as another of its many boons, with three color variants - Ghost White, Racing Green, and Sebring Black - accentuating the look. What truly stands out in of the design is the emphasis on comfort, evident in the ergonomic ear cups whose padding additionally drowns out most background noises. The adjustable ear cups, comprised of a leatherette outer ring and soft mesh inner ring, also work wonders in that they can be worn for long play sessions without feelings of discomfort distracting from the experience. It's easy to forget there's a headset in use at all, thanks to the H3PRO Hybrid's lack of bulk. Though steel gives the headband its shape, layered mesh and a thin piece of leatherette ensure that which rests on the 's head feels well-cushioned.
Sound quality has proven another noteworthy highlight. Akin to previous headsets in EPOS' H3 series, the technology built into the H3PRO Hybrid allows the device to pick up the subtlest of in-game sounds. Distant animal or machine noises in Horizon Forbidden West come through clearly, for instance. Meanwhile, the usually dull-sounding footsteps in Judgment seem to boast an extra heft when TV speakers are exchanged for the new EPOS headset. The device delivers crisp and clean audio for music as well (tested through PlayStation 5's Spotify app), ensuring all bases are covered in of everyday gaming-related needs.
Notably, the H3PRO Hybrid's battery life warrants praise in its own right. According to EPOS, wireless gaming with the device's Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) enabled should guarantee a fully charged battery upwards of 19 hours of juice. This seems a fair estimate; however, the time needed to charge could prove troublesome. Charging through USB on the PS5 from 20 percent to approximately 40 percent took more than an hour and a half, for instance. And 40 percent to 80 percent demanded another two hours and 15 minutes of charging, our testing showed. Thus, while the long-lasting battery life meets expectations, such a boon comes with the caveat of lengthy recharge times.
As with any quality gaming headset, the capabilities of the mic can prove just as integral as those of the earphones. The EPOS H3PRO Hybrid doesn't disappoint in this category, either. Crisp audio flows easily through the accompanying boom mic, with little to no lag impeding chatter between friends. The mic detaches from the headset with ease, too, allowing players to put to use a handy magnetic piece made for covering the empty space left in the boom mic's absence.
All things considered, EPOS' latest H3 series device is a smart choice for those looking to invest in a new gaming headset. The costly barrier to entry may turn some potential buyers away, yet the emphasis on audio quality and comfortability goes a long way to making the hefty price tag worthwhile. Even the EPOS H3PRO Hybrid's most notable nuisance, its long charging times, does little to distract from the caliber of the overall product.
The EPOS H3PRO Hybrid is available now for $279 USD on the official EPOS website. Screen Rant was provided with a headset for the purpose of this review.