The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 and Stealth 700 Gen 2 Max represent the latest iterations of Turtle Beach’s popular wireless gaming headset. Both deliver premium features for Xbox and PlayStation gamers.
But what’s the difference between the Stealth 700 Gen 2 and Gen 2 Max? Read this in-depth comparison for gamers trying to decide between these premium wireless headsets.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Stealth 700 Gen 2 | Stealth 700 Gen 2 Max |
| Sound | Windows Sonic Surround | 3D Spatial Audio |
| Microphones | 2 mics | 4 mics |
| Battery Life | 20 hrs | 24 hrs |
| Weight | 300g | 320g |
| Ear Cushions | Synthetic leather | Aerofit cooling gel |
| Wireless Frequency | 2.4 GHz | 2.4 GHz + Bluetooth |
| Compatibility | Xbox, PlayStation | Xbox, PlayStation, Mobile |
Overview of the Stealth 700 Gen 2
The Stealth 700 Gen 2, released in 2020, is Turtle Beach’s wireless headset designed for Xbox One and PlayStation 4 & 5. It’s known for its premium features tailored specifically for console gamers.
Key aspects of the Stealth 700 Gen 2:
- Windows Sonic surround sound provides immersive positional audio
- 20+ hour battery life outlasts long gaming sessions
- Active noise cancellation removes unwanted background sounds
- High-sensitivity flip-to-mute microphone for clear chat
- Bluetooth connectivity to mobile devices
- Large 50mm Nanoclear speakers deliver quality game audio
- Turtle Beach’s Signature Sound with emphasized bass
- Ability to connect to Xbox Wireless and PlayStation’s 3D Audio
With its integrated console controls and optimized wireless performance, the Stealth 700 Gen 2 is built to enhance Xbox and PlayStation gaming.
Overview of the Stealth 700 Gen 2 Max
Released in 2022, the Stealth 700 Gen 2 Max is the upgraded successor to the original Gen 2 model. It brings several improvements while retaining the signature console-focused design.
What’s new on the Stealth 700 Gen 2 Max:
- 3D spatial audio for more immersive sound
- 4-mic flip up boom for clearer voice capture
- 24-hour battery life, 4 more hours than previous model
- Bluetooth simultaneous with low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless
- Aerofit cooling gel-infused ear cushions to prevent overheating
- Enlarged self-adjusting headband for improved comfort
- Ability to connect to mobile devices via Bluetooth while gaming
- Otherwise identical tactile and audio controls as Gen 2
With its upgrades to audio, design, and flexibility, the Gen 2 Max represents a nice evolution of the Stealth 700 headset.
Also Read: Comparison Between Turtle Beach and HyperX
Key Differences Between the Gen 2 and Gen 2 Max
While Turtle Beach, a well-known name in the gaming audio industry, has introduced two iterations of its popular wireless gaming headset: the Gen 2 and the Gen 2 Max.
While these two headsets share a similar design, they come with several key differences that cater to various aspects of gaming and audio performance.
In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into these distinctions to help you make an informed decision when choosing between the two.
1. Audio Experience
One of the most critical aspects of any gaming headset is its audio performance. Both the Gen 2 and Gen 2 Max aim to provide an immersive audio experience, but they take different approaches:
The Gen 2 headset relies on Windows Sonic surround sound technology to deliver its audio experience. Windows Sonic is a spatial audio platform developed by Microsoft that aims to provide a three-dimensional sound environment for a more immersive gaming experience.
While it can create a convincing sense of space and directionality in audio, it may not match the level of realism and immersion offered by more advanced spatial audio technologies.
In contrast, the Gen 2 Max takes a step further by incorporating more advanced 3D spatial audio technology. This upgrade is a significant improvement over the Gen 2’s Windows Sonic surround sound. Spatial audio technologies like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X offer a more precise and immersive audio experience.
They can simulate sounds coming from all directions, making it easier for gamers to pinpoint the source of in-game sounds. The Gen 2 Max’s use of 3D spatial audio technology enhances immersion and provides a competitive edge in games where sound cues are crucial.
2. Microphone System
Clear and accurate communication with your teammates is essential in online gaming. Both headsets come with built-in microphones, but there’s a notable difference in their microphone systems:
The Gen 2 features a dual-microphone system, which is an improvement over its predecessors. This dual-mic setup is designed to reduce background noise and improve voice clarity during in-game chat. While it is a decent solution for most gaming scenarios, it may not excel in noisy environments.
The Gen 2 Max raises the bar by upgrading to a 4-microphone system. This enhancement is aimed at significantly improving voice pickup and noise cancellation.
With four microphones working in tandem, the Gen 2 Max can better isolate your voice from background noise, ensuring that your communication remains clear and uninterrupted even in noisy gaming environments or during online meetings.
3. Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration for wireless gaming headsets, as no one wants their headset to die in the middle of an intense gaming session. Let’s compare the battery life of the two headsets:
The Gen 2 boasts a respectable battery life of up to 20 hours on a single charge. This duration should suffice for most gaming sessions, but it may require more frequent charging if you engage in extended gaming marathons.
The Gen 2 Max offers a slight but welcome boost in battery life, providing up to 24 hours of usage on a single charge.
While the additional four hours may not seem like a game-changer, it can be the difference between having to recharge mid-game or having enough battery life to last through longer gaming sessions.
4. Connectivity Options
The way you connect your gaming headset to your devices can impact your gaming experience, especially in terms of audio quality and latency. Here’s how the Gen 2 and Gen 2 Max compare in terms of connectivity:
The Gen 2 supports both Bluetooth and low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless connections, but it can only use one of these options at a time.
This means that you must choose between wireless freedom (2.4 GHz) and the ability to connect to other devices like smartphones or tablets (Bluetooth).
While this is a practical solution for most users, it can be limiting if you want to switch between gaming and taking calls on your mobile device.
The Gen 2 Max takes connectivity to the next level. It allows for simultaneous Bluetooth and low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless connections. This means you can enjoy the benefits of lag-free gaming audio while staying connected to your mobile device via Bluetooth.
This added flexibility allows you to seamlessly switch between gaming and other tasks without the need to disconnect and reconnect your headset.
5. Comfort and Cooling
Comfort during long gaming sessions is paramount, and the materials and design of the headset can make a significant difference:
The Gen 2 features synthetic leather ear cushions, which offer a decent level of comfort. However, during extended gaming sessions, synthetic leather can sometimes lead to discomfort and heat build-up, potentially causing sweaty ears.
The Gen 2 Max addresses comfort concerns with the inclusion of Aerofit cooling gel ear cushions. These cushions not only provide enhanced comfort but also help prevent overheating during prolonged use.
The cooling gel technology can keep your ears comfortable and sweat-free, even during the most intense gaming sessions.
6. Fit and Adjustability
A proper fit is essential for both comfort and audio quality. Let’s see how the two headsets compare in terms of fit and adjustability:
The Gen 2 offers a standard level of adjustability to accommodate different head sizes and shapes. While it provides a decent fit for many users, some may find it lacking in terms of customization.
The Gen 2 Max takes a step further in terms of fit and adjustability. Its headband self-adjusts and expands more generously, providing a better fit for a wider range of head sizes and shapes.
This enhanced fit ensures that the headset stays securely in place during gaming sessions, reducing the need for constant adjustments.
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7. Device Compatibility
Gaming headsets are not limited to just gaming consoles, and their compatibility with various devices can be a deciding factor:
The Gen 2 is primarily designed for console gaming and is optimized for use with gaming consoles like Xbox and PlayStation. While it can work with PCs, its focus is on delivering the best experience on gaming consoles.
The Gen 2 Max, thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity, offers broader device compatibility. In addition to gaming consoles, it can seamlessly connect to mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.
This versatility allows you to use the Gen 2 Max for gaming and as a multimedia headset for various other applications.
8. Price
Finally, let’s talk about the cost, which is often a significant factor in purchasing decisions:
The Gen 2 is the more budget-friendly option of the two, making it an attractive choice for gamers looking for a good balance of features and affordability.
The Gen 2 Max, with its enhanced features and capabilities, comes at a slightly higher price point. You can expect to pay around $50 more for the Gen 2 Max compared to the Gen 2. This price difference reflects the added value and advanced technology offered by the Gen 2 Max.
Also Read: Comparison Between Turtle Beach and HyperX
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Gen 2 Max mainly improves upon the original with better 3D spatial audio, 4-mic boom, Bluetooth simultaneous with 2.4 GHz wireless, and more comfortable ear cushions and headband design.
Yes, the original Stealth 700 Gen 2 provides virtual surround sound via Windows Sonic when connected wirelessly to Xbox consoles or PlayStation. This gives accurate positional audio.
Yes, a key upgrade on the Gen 2 Max is the ability to connect via Bluetooth to mobile devices like smartphones and tablets while also maintaining the low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless for gaming.
Yes, both the Gen 2 and Gen 2 Max models have active noise cancellation to block out external sounds like fan noise for a more immersive gaming experience.
Also Read: Comparison Between the SoloCast and Yeti
Conclusion
Both the Stealth 700 Gen 2 and Gen 2 Max represent premium wireless gaming audio for Xbox and PlayStation users.
The Gen 2 Max lives up to its name with worthwhile upgrades like better spatial audio, voice pickup, battery life, wireless flexibility and comfort. But the original Gen 2 still delivers great wireless console gameplay at a more affordable price point.
