The RIG R5 Spear Pro HS: My 2025 Gaming Headset Pick for Black Friday
A New Contender in the Gaming Headset Market
Nacon’s RIG brand of gaming headsets has consistently impressed me with its ability to deliver high-quality hardware at competitive prices. Much like GameSir for controllers, RIG often offers products that provide exceptional value for money. The newly launched RIG R5 Spear Pro HS is a prime example of this trend. Despite its somewhat unwieldy name, this wired gaming headset checks nearly all the boxes I look for in a top-tier pair of headphones.
What Makes the RIG R5 Spear Pro HS Stand Out?
The RIG R5 Spear Pro HS is an excellent choice if you're looking for a headset that delivers great sound quality, comfort during long sessions, and a reliable microphone for online multiplayer—all at a price that surprises you in the best way possible. I’ve had positive experiences with other RIG models such as the RIG 900 Max HS and the RIG 600 Pro HS, both of which are wireless headsets designed for PlayStation. These models are slightly older and could be strong candidates for Black Friday discounts.
However, there are several reasons why the RIG R5 Spear Pro HS might be worth considering over the sales period, especially if it's your first time purchasing a gaming headset for modern platforms.
Competitive Pricing and Value
The RIG R5 Spear Pro HS retails at $69.99 / £69.99 (around AU$99), placing it in the mid-range to budget category. This isn’t unusual for wired gaming headsets. For instance, the Razer BlackShark V2 X is priced at $59.99 / £59.99, while the HyperX Cloud Alpha costs $99.99 / £89.99.
Despite this, these competing headsets often see significant discounts after their release, sometimes undercutting the RIG R5 Spear Pro HS. However, based on my experience using all three headsets for gaming, work, and music, I can confidently say the RIG model outperforms the others in several areas.
Superior Audio Quality
One of the standout features of the RIG R5 Spear Pro HS is its audio quality. It comes equipped with 40mm graphene drivers, which deliver crystal clear sound with minimal distortion, even at higher volumes. Compared to the Razer BlackShark V2 X, the RIG model provides a more immersive and dynamic audio experience, making it ideal for both online multiplayer and single-player adventures.
Comfort and Customization
Comfort and customization are two additional strengths of the RIG R5 Spear Pro HS. The ear cups and headband use plush materials that make it suitable for extended gaming sessions. Unlike cheaper leatherette alternatives, these materials are less likely to cause discomfort or heat buildup over time.
The headset also supports official magnetic mod plates, allowing users to customize the design. While these are sold separately, they offer a unique way to personalize the headset. I particularly enjoy the EVO tournament design, which appeals to fans of fighting games.
Wired vs. Wireless: A Trade-Off
One potential downside is that the RIG R5 Spear Pro HS is a wired headset. However, this isn’t a major issue for me. Being wired means the headset is compatible with multiple platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, PC, and most devices with a 3.5mm headphone jack. This versatility makes it a strong option for gamers who use different systems.
Final Thoughts
While other wired headsets may go on sale during Black Friday, the RIG R5 Spear Pro HS is worth keeping an eye on. Although price drops may not be as steep as those for older models, a drop below $60 / £60 would make it an even more attractive option. If you’re looking for a reliable and high-performing headset for the best PS5, Xbox Series X, or Switch 2 games, the RIG R5 Spear Pro HS is a solid choice.
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