This ridiculously inexpensive headset might be an excellent streaming and gaming alternative on a tight budget.
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A decent headset is an essential piece of personal technology for someone who spends a lot of time gaming and video editing. However, high-quality audio equipment isn’t always inexpensive, which is why I was eager to test out Trust’s new, reasonably priced GXT 498 Forta headset. I’ll go into detail about their performance in comparison to the more expensive models I often use in this review, as well as on characteristics like sound quality, comfort, and overall looks.
Check out our guide to the top gaming headsets right now if you’re looking for a wider selection of headset choices. We also provide tutorials regarding the following things to further enhance your tech setup: greatest PS5 controllers and external hard drives for the PlayStation.
This headset, which debuted in May 2023, is still quite new on the market at the time this article is being written. Due to its sleek design and PlayStation logo emblazoned on the side, it would be simple to mistake it for an authentic PlayStation product when you first take it out of the box. It was really simple to get acquainted to the functionality and the design is simple yet gorgeous.
REVIEW OF THE TRUST GXT 498 FORTA: KEY SPECS
Weight: | 253g |
Dimensions: | 205 x 165 x 83mm |
Connection type: | Wired |
Driver: | 50mm dynamic driver |
Microphone type: | Omnidirectional |
Input type: | 3.5mm |
Frequency response: | 100 Hz – 17.000 Hz |
CONCEPTUALISE A TRUST GXT 498 FORTA HEADSET
(Photo courtesy of Abi Le Guilcher)
The GXT 498 Forta headset is a perfectly attractive substitute for its more expensive equivalents, such as the PS5 3D Pulse headset, in terms of design. It has a solid plastic body and is available in the hues white and black. Although this headset is wired exclusively, it also has a flexible detachable microphone and detachable wire. The plastic does feel a tiny bit cheaper because of the lower price point, but there is a valid reason for that.
With 85% of the body manufactured from recycled plastics, Trust proudly proclaims that the GXT 498 Forta headset is very sustainable, which is undoubtedly an advantage for people who are more ecologically concerned. Moreover, this headset is authorised licenced by PlayStation, thus each earcup proudly displays the company’s renowned emblem.
Extremely plush stretch fabric lines the foam cushioning that lines the main band and earcups. In contrast to other gaming headsets I’ve used, the band felt fairly thin, and after prolonged use the pressure became a little uncomfortable because it was so concentrated. The tight fit of the earcups made wearing glasses uncomfortable after a while.
SPECIFICATIONS AND EFFICIENCY
a headset Trust GXT 498 Forta
(Photo courtesy of Abi Le Guilcher)
The sound quality is reasonable given the cost. With the help of the 3D audio and strong 50mm drivers, gaming was immersive and I could clearly distinguish between distinct sounds throughout challenging gameplay. However, given that this headset retails for under $40/£40, you are making a small compromise in terms of audio clarity. Sometimes the dialogue in video games seemed a touch tinny and unclear. Despite the ear cups fitting snugly, I discovered that it wasn’t as noise-cancelling as I would have expected. The GXT 498 did not quite match the Razer Blackshark V2 headset in terms of audio quality, which is what I generally use.
. Similar to the speaker, the microphone isn’t completely clear and can sound a little muffled, but it’s more than sufficient for personal calls and online gaming. However, I would not suggest using it to capture stand-alone audio.
For its simplicity, the Trust GXT 498 Forta gaming headset excels. It has a volume wheel that rotates and a separate sliding mute button that are similar to those on computer mice. As was already noted, the main wire and mic are both detachable, making it simpler to store and hang up. The wire is 1.2 metres long and has a decent thickness, however I would prefer it if it were covered in a flexible anti-tangling fabric because the rubber is somewhat substantial.
PRICE
(Photo by Abi Le Guilcher)
This headset definitely shines as a candidate for the finest PS5 headsets at the pricing point. It is far more inexpensive than other well-known game companies, retailing for about $40 or £40. What more could you want for in a reasonably priced, high-quality headset with a detachable microphone, a dedicated mute button, and a straightforward volume wheel? Despite only being released this year, the GXT 498 routinely goes on sale, so you can frequently find it for approximately $34/£34.
DO I NEED TO PURCHASE THE TRUST GXT 498 FORTA?
a headset Trust GXT 498 Forta
(Photo courtesy of Abi Le Guilcher)
The GXT 498 Forta headset is your best option if you’re looking for a lightweight, stylish, and totally acceptable gaming headset that is reasonably priced. Being officially licenced by Sony guarantees quality and ensures that it works correctly with your PlayStation gaming system. For those who are more concerned about the environment, the construction’s use of recycled materials is a big selling feature. The sleek, business-like design of the all-black construction is ideal for people who prefer a tidy setup.
Does it merit a place among our current favourite PS5 headsets then? You might need more from your audio equipment if you’re a die-hard audiophile than what this small baby can provide. You will undoubtedly give up some audio clarity and comfort at a cheaper price point, but you won’t really notice this unless you’re accustomed to higher-end models. The GXT 498 Forta headset, however, is an affordable substitute that doesn’t forego design or functionality.