According to a detailed review by Tom's Guide, the PowerA LucidSound LS500 headset offers impressive value for just $69, providing good sound quality and comfortable wear for gamers on PS5 and Xbox platforms. While there are minor drawbacks like a plasticky build and limited bass performance, its unique controls and all-day comfort make it a compelling choice in the budget headset market.
- Excellent comfort with moisture-wicking earcups and lightweight build
- Innovative and user-friendly control wheels for volume, EQ, and mic monitoring
- Lacks robust bass and app customization but offers strong value at $69
Product angle
The source review from Tom's Guide reports that the PowerA LucidSound LS500 is a well-rounded budget headset tailored for PS5 and Xbox users. The headset impresses with its comfortable design, featuring lightweight metal frames and moisture-wicking earcup liners that maintain comfort during extended use. Sound quality is generally strong, thanks to 50mm drivers and directional audio capabilities, although bass response is somewhat subdued. A standout feature is its innovative control scheme using physical rotating wheels that provide easy adjustment of volume, mic monitoring, and equalizer presets without increasing complexity.
While the LS500 has strengths in comfort and usability, Tom's Guide points out some compromises. The build feels somewhat plasticky, which could impact perceived durability and premium feel. Additionally, the lack of a companion app restricts sound customization options that more feature-rich competitors offer. Nevertheless, these trade-offs appear reasonable given the sub-$70 price, positioning the LS500 as a practical option for gamers prioritizing comfort and straightforward controls over high-end sound tuning.
Best for / avoid if
The PowerA LucidSound LS500 is best suited for budget-conscious gamers on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC platforms who value long-lasting comfort and straightforward functionality. Its extremely lightweight construction and moisture-wicking earcups make it an excellent choice for extended gaming sessions without discomfort. The headset is also ideal for players who appreciate tactile physical controls and easy switching between EQ presets without the need for software overhead.
Potential buyers should avoid the LS500 if they seek a more premium build quality or crave deep audio customization through companion apps. Audiophiles or users looking for strong bass delivery might find the sound profile lacking. Additionally, those who prefer a more robust wired or hybrid headset experience may want to consider alternatives, as this model emphasizes wireless convenience but with a plasticky build.
Pricing and alternatives to check
At an introductory price of $69, the PowerA LucidSound LS500 competes aggressively in the budget gaming headset market. This price tier makes it an attractive choice for gamers unwilling to spend $100 or more but still looking for decent sound quality, mic performance, and comfort. The headset’s feature set represents a strong value given what is typically found at this price point, especially considering its unique control wheels and wireless connectivity options.
For those exploring alternatives, the Turtle Beach Stealth 500 typically retails slightly higher around $79 and offers a more established brand presence but with more cluttered controls according to the same review source. Other competitors to consider include the Asus TUF Gaming H1 Gen II, priced lower but heavier and less comfortable, or the Cherry XTRFY H3, priced at around $99 but also heavier. Buyers weighing build quality and sound tuning flexibility against price should explore these options to determine the best match for their gaming and budget needs.