Key Takeaways
- Logitech has announced the 5th generation Astro A50 X, a refresh of Astro's flagship gaming headset.
- The A50 X features Logitech's PlaySync functionality, allowing it to connect to Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC without the need for a separate base station.
- The headset uses USB-C and HDMI 2.1 for audio connection, includes Pro-G Graphene Audio Driver, Logitech's wireless technology, and supports Logitech's G Hub and Bluetooth connectivity for Nintendo Switch. It will be available in the first half of 2024 for $380.
Logitech has formally announced the A50 X, the 5th generation of Astro's long-running flagship headset. Let's face facts, it was probably due for a refresh. Astro released the 4th generation Astro A50s over four years ago, back in early 2019.
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The new Astro A50 X works on three platforms
Arguably the most exciting of the A50 X's new features is Logitech's PlaySync functionality. It allows the headset to connect to Xbox Series X/S and PS5 consoles, as well as PC, with minimal fuss. Its predecessor couldn't do that, and you needed to buy a base station specifically for the platform of your choice.
That issue is in the past now. The Astro A50 X will come with a single base station that can connect to all the platforms you intend to use it for. There is a button on the base station that you press to swap compatibility, which is something we've seen in other modern headsets as well.
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Logitech also mentions that the A50 X is capable of using both USB-C and HDMI 2.1 to connect to your TVs and consoles to deliver audio.
In addition, the new headset boasts Astro's Pro-G Graphene Audio Driver, which is a fancy name for Astro's 40 mm graphene diaphragm. It also includes Logitech's 24-bit Lightspeed wireless technology, a 16-bit, 48 kHz microphone, and support for Logitech's G Hub on PC, iOS, and Android. Bluetooth connectivity means Nintendo Switch support is also on offer.
Astro A50 X pricing and availability
According to Logitech, the headset should arrive on shelves sometime in the first half of 2024. That's a little vague, but more details will probably come once we get closer to the date. The new A50 X will run for $380 and pre-orders start today, December 5, 2023 on Logitech's website. It'll also almost certainly be available at major retailers like Best Buy and Amazon like the prior generation was.