Asus TUF Gaming H1 Gen II Review: Affordable Immersive Gaming Headset

Immerse yourself in rich soundscapes and crystal-clear communication with the Asus TUF Gaming H1 Gen II gaming headset.

The Soundtrack to Your Gaming Escape

After a long day’s grind, there’s nothing like kicking back with some immersive gaming on the PS5 to unwind. And let me tell you, sound isn’t just a background player—it’s a game-changer. That’s why a solid gaming headset is a must-have. Enter the Asus TUF Gaming H1 Gen II, a wired headset that caught me off guard with its expansive soundstage and surprisingly comfy fit.

Selling at a wallet-friendly price under $65, it includes a clear unidirectional mic that does its job well. Sure, its design might not be everyone’s cup of tea, and the wired USB-A connection can feel a bit limiting, but those are just small speed bumps on a mostly smooth ride.

Quick Specs and Who It’s For

• What is it? A wired gaming headset compatible with PC and PlayStation consoles.
• Who’s it for? Gamers looking for an affordable way to boost their audio experience.
• Price: Around $65 for the standard black model.
• Pros: Immersive 7.1 virtual surround sound, lightweight comfort, crisp mic, and great value.
• Cons: No companion software, polarizing design, USB-A wired only, and awkward controls.

Under the Hood: Asus TUF Gaming H1 Gen II Features

Why You’ll Love the Asus TUF Gaming H1 Gen II

Feather-Light Comfort for Marathon Gaming

One of the standout traits of any gaming headset has to be comfort. Asus nailed it here with a surprisingly light 300-gram design that you barely notice on your head. The metal headband adds durability but stays gentle on your scalp thanks to a soft, flexible padding that automatically adjusts when you put it on—no fiddling required.

The faux leather ear cushions seal in sound and feel snug without suffocating your ears. I wore it for four solid hours and came out unscathed—no aches, no sweat. If you're a fan of breathable memory foam ear pads, you might want to look elsewhere, like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1, but for most, this is a comfy winner.

Sound That Pulls You Into the Game

The real magic of the H1 Gen II is in its sound. Equipped with robust 40mm neodymium drivers, it faithfully reproduces frequencies from deep lows to crisp highs. The headset's virtual 7.1 surround sound tricks your brain into hearing a wider soundscape, making every game more engaging.

I tested this across multiple games on PS5 Slim and a Windows 11 laptop at the office, and the headset consistently delivered.

Gaming Sessions That Sound Like Epic Adventures

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Currently obsessed with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, the headset shined when I relied on subtle audio cues for parrying attacks. These tiny sounds, often the difference between victory and defeat, came through perfectly clear. And that orchestral soundtrack? It blended seamlessly with the in-game effects, pumping up the drama of every boss fight.

The eerie moments in this game became genuinely spine-tingling, thanks in part to the 7.1 surround that made noises feel like they were creeping around you. It’s the kind of detail every horror or suspense gamer craves.

Need for Speed: Heat

When I switched gears to Need for Speed: Heat, the H1 Gen II delivered a thrilling ride. From engine roars to tire screeches and gear shifts, every sound felt alive and thunderous. It was like I was actually behind the wheel of my imaginary Koenigsegg, racing through the city streets.

Every time my car shifted gears, no matter how loud the soundtrack was, I could hear the gear changes distinctly. The sound of tires sliding and the roar of the Koenigsegg engine simply blew me away.

Lies of P

Finally, on Lies of P for Windows, the headset's clarity helped me catch quiet environmental sounds—rain drops, water trickling, and the heavy footsteps of mechanical enemies. Each step and growl felt tangible, helping me strategize and survive the intense encounters.

Looking around corners, I could hear mechanical police footsteps clearly, which helped me plan my approach. In battle, the main character’s growls were loud and clear, and the sound of my sword sharpening was like an engine revving up.

Crystal-Clear Mic for Team Victory

Anyone who’s played online knows the pain of a bad mic—mumbled commands or lost calls can cost games. The H1 Gen II sports a non-detachable but flexible unidirectional mic that focuses on your voice while blocking out background noise.

Here’s a clip of my voice recorded with the mic—notice how clear and loud it is, even with ambient chatter in the background:

• Voice test without background noise
• Voice test with background noise

Whether you’re calling out strategies or chatting with friends, this mic ensures you’re heard—loud and clear.

Price That Won’t Break the Bank

This headset is one of the most affordable gaming headsets I’ve come across. The plain black model retails for about $65, making it a steal. The fun Hatsune Miku Edition costs roughly double, priced around $130, and boasts a vibrant pink and teal design.

The low price is partly because it's wired, and wireless headsets tend to start at higher price points. So if you want wireless without splurging, consider options like Turtle Beach Stealth 500 or Cherry XTRFY H3, but they’ll cost quite a bit more.

Where the Asus TUF Gaming H1 Gen II Falls Short

A Design That Might Divide Opinions

If minimalism is your vibe, stick with the black edition. The Hatsune Miku version is a bold, anime-infused feast for the eyes—with glowing teal accents and a silhouette of the iconic vocaloid on the ear cup. Not my style, but anime fans will love it.

No Companion Software for Customization

Unlike many gaming headsets that include software to tweak EQ settings, update firmware, or customize controls, the H1 Gen II offers none of that. Asus states they currently don’t provide any drivers or software for this model. Hopefully, that changes down the road.

For those who crave software tuning, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 uses Sonar Audio software that might feel more customizable.

Limited by Its Wired Connection

The wired USB-A connection means no wireless freedom, and the cable is only 2 meters long. I had to plug it into the back of my PS5 Slim and sit close to the console since my couch was too far away. This headset works best if your setup keeps your console and seat close or if you game at your desk.

Awkward Control Layout

Controls aren’t on the ear cups but on an inline small controller about a meter down the cable. It handles volume, mic mute, RGB lighting, and toggling 7.1 surround sound, but reaching for it mid-game is a hassle. I’d prefer buttons right on the headset for easier access.

The Final Word on Asus TUF Gaming H1 Gen II

There’s no denying that the Asus TUF Gaming H1 Gen II is a great entry-level gaming headset. Its expansive soundstage and virtual 7.1 surround sound make every game more thrilling. The unidirectional mic isolates your voice perfectly, and the comfort level supports long gaming marathons.

But it’s not flawless. The anime-themed design might not suit everyone, and the lack of software settings, shorter cable, and inconvenient controls hold it back from greatness. With a few tweaks, this headset could be absolutely exceptional. For now, my loyalty leans toward brands like SteelSeries.

“The headset’s wide soundstage and clear mic make gaming feel more alive, even if its design isn’t for everyone.” – Gaming Enthusiast

FAQ

• What platforms does the Asus TUF Gaming H1 Gen II support?
  It’s compatible with PS5, PS4, and PC via USB-A connection.
• Does the headset support wireless connectivity?
  No, it’s a wired headset with a 2-meter USB-A cable.
• Is there software to customize sound or controls?
  Currently, Asus does not provide any companion software or drivers for this model.
• How comfortable is the headset for long gaming sessions?
  Extremely comfortable, weighing only 300 grams with soft, adjustable padding that fits snugly without pressure.
• Can the microphone be detached or removed?
  No, the unidirectional mic is fixed but flexible and can be positioned away when not in use.

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