This weekend we took a look at the Anker SoundCore Strike 3 headphones and we want to tell you about our experience from both PC and PlayStation 4.
All gamers consider gaming headsets to be essential for getting into the gaming atmosphere. This is why it is important that the quality of these devices is high, not only because they must guarantee the cancellation of ambient noise but also an appreciable comfort and above all a sensitive and adjustable microphone .
All elements that we find in Anker’s Strike 3 over-ear headphones , which have been specifically designed for gamers with a smooth listening experience and good value for money. But let’s see what their characteristics are.
Soundcore Strike 3: The Complete Test
Beautiful , sturdy and lightweight , these gaming headsets work with both PC and PS4 (even PS5). But where they really excel is on computers as you can pair them with complementary software and that will allow you to tap into virtual 7.1 surround sound . By installing the Soundcore Gaming Studio application for PC you will be able to customize the sound of the headphones and have an effective adjustable EQ .
I have tried the Strike 3 in different games, from MMOs to JRPGs to shooters and I have to say that I was really impressed with the fluid and intense sound. If you’re on a budget or are on a tight budget, these headphones have no problem ensuring you have a sound gaming audio experience.
Packaging
Even in the packaging Anker spares no expense as always. The package is well finished and is truly appreciable. In addition to the product images and the many information on the black cardboard box, we find well arranged inside.
- Headphones
- Removable microphone
- User Guide
- Warranty and technical support
Design and build quality
Starting from the design it must be said that these gaming headsets have been designed to give priority to comfort . The 52mm soft memory foam ear cushions , infused with cooling gel , are incredibly comfortable to be worn for many hours, especially in hot weather.
This will help avoid ear sweating and minimize the amount of overheating .
As for the build quality , the materials with which the Anker Strike 3 headphones are made are made of resistant plastic and, even if they are not of the highest quality, they are still valid. One of the best parts of the design is definitely the detachable noise-canceling microphone . You can move or disconnect it if necessary and give orders to your team with incredible clarity.
The microphone’s IPX5 waterproof rating allows it to effortlessly resist sweat, water, saliva and drinks.
In addition to the comfortable earpads and detachable microphone, the RGB lighting also deserves our attention. Blue lights are visible on the sides of each pavilion which adds a unique play atmosphere.
Features and controls
The Strike 3s work very well on PC with Soundcore Gaming Studio software and also well on PS4 and PS5 consoles. Unfortunately using the USB connection doesn’t make them the best option for consoles, unless you’re close enough.
However, this is not a big problem, the cable is about 1.7 meters long and allows a good margin of maneuver .
On the left earphone you will find the port to connect the microphone, while to connect the Strike 3 to your computer or PS4, you have to use their USB port and use the remote control placed on the headphone cable to perform a series of actions. On this remote you will find:
- A knob to raise or lower the volume of the headphones.
- A switch to turn the microphone on or off.
- A switch to turn 7.1 virtual surround on or off.
How to use Soundcore Gaming Studio
After trying the Anker headphones on PS4 with excellent results, I also wanted to connect them to the computer and downloaded the Soundcore Gaming Studio application . The latter allows you to adjust the sound profile of the headphones according to your needs and fine-tune the 7.1 audio support.You also find equalizer options and microphone options.
If you have Windows 10 , click the Download Now (ZIP) button and save it to your computer. Once the download is complete, open the zip file and extract it to a folder. Double-click the Anker_Virtual7.1_Setup file to start the installation. Choose the English language and press the Install button .
Completed the installation by restarting the PC.
Launch the Anker Audio 7.1 app and plug your headphones into your computer’s USB port. The app interface consists of three sections: Surround , Microphone and Equalizer .
You can interact with these sections to improve the sound quality and have fun experimenting with the 4 equalizer modes and related 3D effects .
Audio quality
The listening experience with Soundcore gaming headphones is truly precision. The oversized 52mm drivers deliver powerful, well-managed bass sound . They were designed to deliver virtual 7.1 surround sound . The driver casing emphasizes the sound of gunfire and footsteps to pinpoint the location of your enemies.
I tried them during a game session with some favorite titles and I could see the good bass level. I also took advantage of the advantage that the SoundCore Strike 3 provide through their special processor on the steps, especially with gunshots and ambient sounds. If you love PUBG games, Fortnite and Valorant, they are a significant added value, so much so that they give you the feeling of being in the middle of the game scene.
Soundcore Strike 3 technical specifications
- Model: A3830.
- Driver: 52 mm.
- Frequency range: 20Hz-20kHz.
- Impedance: 32 Ω +/- 15%.
- Sensitivity: 113dB +/- 3dB at 1kHz.
- Cable length: 1.7m.
- Weight(approx.): 420 g.
- Product size: 181 x 99 x 213mm.
- LED working voltage: 5V DC.
- Microphone sensitivity: -40 ± 3dBV at 1kHz.
- Receptivity scheme: unidirectional.
- Headphone connection: USB-A.
Conclusions and price
Overall I can say that the Soundcore Strike 3 are extremely comfortable headphones with a quality audio level. You may not like the plastic build, but Anker still managed to produce a product for all those gaming lovers who are looking for 7.1 sourrond gaming headsets at an affordable price.
Pro
- Cooling gel earphones.
- 1 surround control directly on the wire.
- 1 Surround Sound for PC only.
- Isolates surrounding noise well.
- Extra audio functionality with PC software.
Versus
- Construction materials.
- No control over the ear cups.
- The headset cannot be connected to game controllers.
- The absence of wireless requires proximity to the console.
