Razer Kraken V2: Two headsets, one leap forward

AFTER THE RELEASE of this year’s Man O’ War (go.pcworld.com/razer manowarrev) headset, I figured it was only a matter of time before Razer got around to updating its more mass-market design—it came even faster than I expected.

Just in time, too. The Kraken 7.1’s been an also-ran for years now, a chintzy headset backed by underwhelming audio. The 2016 Kraken V2—both the analog Pro variant (go.pcworld.com/krakenalv2amz) and especially the USB-powered 7.1 V2 (go.pcworld.com/krak enchrv 2 amz)—changes that, arriving packed with most of the Man O’ War’s improvements: better audio, a sturdier design, and a more refined look. Sure, it’s just as bulky as ever, but this is the Kraken’s best showing in a long time.

Razer Kraken 7.1 Chroma V2

$100

Razer Kraken Pro V2 Analog Gaming Headset

$80

Growing up

If Razer had only changed the Kraken V2’s