Our Verdict
The Corsair HS35 are disappointing for mixed usage. This wired gaming headset is bulky, has a cluttered sound profile, and doesn't isolate very well. That said, the microphone is detachable and the headset even comes with a port plug which is helpful if you prefer a more casual look on-the-go.
- Comfortable, lightweight design.
- Detachable microphone with excellent noise handling.
- Easy-to-use controls.
- Cluttered sound profile.
- Microphone makes speech sound rather thin.
- Poor isolation.
The Corsair HS35 are sub-par for neutral sound. These headphones have a very unbalanced sound profile that sounds boomy and muddy but also sharp at times. It can maybe help bring out the intensity of certain video game effects, but isn't recommended for critical listening.
The Corsair HS35 are bad for commute or travel. These headphones have a bulky design that's not very convenient to transport around. They hardly isolate any noise and also leak a lot of sound, so you risk bothering those around you without getting much peace, either.
The Corsair HS35 are poor for sports or fitness. This wired gaming headset will likely get in your way more than anything, especially with their long non-detachable cable. The mesh padding does make these headphones a bit more breathable than most, but they're not very stable and are likely to fall off even during light exercise.
The Corsair HS35 are disappointing for office use. While the boom microphone can be helpful during conference calls, the headset leaks a lot of sound which can be disruptive to your colleagues. These headphones are comfortable, which is a bonus during a long work day, but the cluttered sound profile could make vocals sound thick, which isn't ideal for your favorite work day podcast.
The Corsair HS35 are wired headphones that can't be used for wireless gaming.
The Corsair HS35 are okay for wired gaming. The lightweight, comfortable design is suitable for long gaming sessions, especially thanks to the breathable mesh padding. However, the cluttered sound profile can make in-game music sound muddy and the microphone isn't much to write home about. That said, it can still be an alright option if you're on a budget.
The Corsair HS35 are passable for phone calls. This headset doesn't have a particularly neutral-sounding microphone, but it does boost the higher frequencies which can help with making your voice sound a bit more clear, even if it'll still sound thin. The lightweight design is also a bonus during long calls, but since the headset has poor isolation, it could be hard for you to hear the person at the end of the line if you're in a noisy environment.
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Popular Headphones Comparisons
The Corsair HS35 are entry-level gaming headphones that might deliver decent value for some, but there are better options out there. They have a cluttered sound profile that's both boomy and sharp, and an underwhelming microphone performance that doesn't live up to the competition. Their lightweight design is comfortable, though, and the fact that they come with a port plug for the detachable microphone is a pleasant surprise. See our recommendations for the best gaming headsets under $50.
The Corsair HS50 is a better wired gaming headset than the Corsair HS35. The HS50 feels better-built and has a more neutral, accurate sound profile. The HS35 feel more cheaply made, but some may prefer their more lightweight design.
The Corsair HS60 is a better-wired gaming headset than the Corsair HS35. The HS60 have a more neutral, accurate sound profile and feel much more durable. They also come with a USB adapter so you can customize them on your PC, unlike the HS35 which only have a standard audio jack.
The HyperX Cloud Stinger is a much better-wired gaming headset than the Corsair HS35. Its boom microphone has a significantly better recording quality than that of the Corsair and it sounds a bit better-balanced too. The Corsair does have a more casual design, which some may prefer, but for gaming you're better off with the HyperX.
The SteelSeries Arctis 1 and the Corsair HS35 are both wired gaming headphones with their own pros and cons. The SteelSeries feel more cheaply made than the Corsair but have a better microphone performance. The Corsair sounds muddier, and their mic isn't as good, but they're more comfortable for long gaming sessions.
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