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The Razer Kraken X connects through an analog 3.5 mm audio-and-microphone plug, while the Kraken X USB connects digitally over USB and adds green lighting in each earcup. Razer’s published specifications also list the USB version as 25 g heavier, with a 0.7 m longer cable. The right choice mainly depends on your device’s ports and whether you want the lighting and longer cable.
Kraken X vs. Kraken X USB: the main differences
| Specification | Razer Kraken X | Razer Kraken X USB |
|---|---|---|
| Model identifier | RZ04-02890 (Razer Support) | RZ04-02960 (Razer Support) |
| Connection | 3.5 mm audio-and-microphone plug; the device layout shows a splitter extension cable (Razer Support) | USB Digital (Razer Support) |
| Approximate weight | 250 g (Razer Support, 2026) | 275 g (Razer Support, 2026) |
| Cable length | 1.3 m (Razer Support, 2026) | 2.0 m (Razer Support, 2026) |
| Drivers | 40 mm, neodymium magnets (Razer Support) | 40 mm, neodymium magnets (Razer Support) |
| Headphone frequency response | 12 Hz–28 kHz (Razer Support) | 20 Hz–20 kHz (Razer Support) |
| Earcup lighting | No added lighting stated in Razer’s 2019 launch announcement (Razer, 2019) | Green lighting from each earcup, according to Razer’s FAQ (Razer FAQ) |
| Advertised 7.1 feature | Windows 10 64-bit only, per the 2019 launch materials (Razer, 2019) | Windows 10 64-bit only on the product page; support specifications identify Dolby Headphone (Razer product page; Razer FAQ) |
Which connection will work with your device?
Kraken X: analog 3.5 mm
The Kraken X needs a compatible 3.5 mm connection for audio and microphone. Check your computer, console, or other device for the required jack arrangement. Razer’s device layout also shows a splitter extension cable, which may matter if the device has separate headphone and microphone jacks rather than a combined headset jack. Confirm the connection setup for your specific device before buying.
Kraken X USB: a USB port
The Kraken X USB uses USB Digital instead of the Kraken X’s analog plug. It is the more relevant option when you want to connect through USB, but first make sure your device has a suitable USB port and supports headset audio over that connection. The two models’ connectors are not interchangeable.
Weight, cable reach, and lighting
Razer lists the Kraken X at approximately 250 g with a 1.3 m cable, and the Kraken X USB at approximately 275 g with a 2.0 m cable. On those manufacturer-published figures, the USB model is 25 g heavier and its cable is 0.7 m longer. These are listed specifications, not independent measurements.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Razer’s FAQ says the USB version has green lighting from each earcup. The 2019 announcement for the original Kraken X does not state added lighting. Choose the USB model if that stated lighting is appealing; do not assume the original Kraken X includes it.
Audio specifications and surround feature
Both models are listed with 40 mm drivers and neodymium magnets, but Razer publishes different headphone frequency-response ranges: 12 Hz–28 kHz for the Kraken X and 20 Hz–20 kHz for the Kraken X USB. Specifications alone do not establish how the headsets compare in sound quality.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Razer limits the advertised 7.1 surround feature on both models to Windows 10 64-bit. For the USB model, Razer’s support specifications identify the surround sound as Dolby Headphone. Treat this as a platform-specific feature, not a guarantee of the same software experience on every operating system or device.
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Razer describes the Kraken X USB cushions as faux leather memory foam and says they are not cooling gel-infused. The Kraken X support page lists leatherette oval cushions. Those descriptions do not establish that every material detail is identical between the two models.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Which one should you choose?
- Choose the Kraken X if your device supports its 3.5 mm audio-and-microphone connection or the relevant splitter setup, and its lower listed weight matters to you.
- Choose the Kraken X USB if your device supports USB headset audio and you want USB Digital, the longer listed cable, or green earcup lighting.
- Do not decide on surround sound alone unless your setup meets Razer’s stated Windows 10 64-bit requirement.
These recommendations follow Razer’s published specifications; they are not based on hands-on comparative testing. Razer’s 2019 announcement listed a US$49.99 launch MSRP for the Kraken X, which is historical and does not establish a current price. Current prices and inventory were not verified.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
