The SteelSeries 5H v2 Headset was designed specifically with competitive shooters like Counter-strike in mind. It amplifies and clarifies sounds like footsteps and gunfire (even the shells hitting the ground) so that gamers always have the upper-hand when marching into battles. Beyond that, its soft extra large ear cushions make it comfortable during long gaming sessions and it has a retractable microphone.

The Good: Retractable, flexible, boom microphone. Comfortable, over ear, soft cushions for long gaming sessions. Excellent clear sound for games. Can be dismantled into three pieces for easy transport.

The Bad: Microphone sensitivity switch doesn't seem to anything. Movies and music end up sounding a little weak.

Bottom Line: Gamers can't ask for much more than the 5H v2 when it comes to competitive shooters. The fantastic sound clarity that amplifies otherwise subtle sounds gives gamers a major advantage over opponents. The soft ear cushions keep the headset comfortable during long gaming sessions, even if you wear glasses. Furthermore, the retractable microphone - a signature feature among a couple SteelSeries headsets - is such a fantastic innovation that it's a wonder why more companies don't include it. Unfortunately, the headset isn't as impressive when it comes to more mundane everyday uses like music and movies. Music ends up sounding a little weak and subdued. Although the technical specifications are very similar on paper, we were more impressed by the Sibera Neck Band Headset's all-around sound quality. Nonetheless, the SteelSeries 5H v2 is clearly one of the best gaming headsets available. You'd have to search far and wide for a better gaming headset than one from SteelSeries.