Fnatic React+ Review: ‘Understated Design Meets Awesome Gaming Audio’

FNATIC REACT+ GAMING HEADSET REVIEW FOR PC, PS5, PS4, XBOX SERIES X|S, XBOX ONE, AND NINTENDO SWITCH.

Though it hasn’t been in the game as long as its toughest competitors, Fnatic has consistently impressed with its array of peripherals. What’s more, despite the clear affiliation with esports pros who demand the best gear for competitive play, Fnatic’s product line is relatively budget. This includes the Fnatic React+ gaming headset, which I’m reviewing today.

Fitting the budget

The React+ ($89.99) is the premium variant of the React ($59.99) headset, coming with an additional USB 7.1 sound card and extra ear pads in the box. It’s all very well-packaged and makes for a great unboxing experience.

Buy the Fnatic React+ gaming headset on Amazon.com here.

My first impressions of the headset itself were very positive. As more of a budget solution, I was expecting a clear compromise in materials, but the React feels substantial in all of the right places, especially when it comes to the plushness of the headband and ear pads.

Though the design of the headset is similar to HyperX products, I found the fit a little snugger. That is until I had worn it in over a week’s use. Now it feels secure, but not overly tight. However, wider-headed folks may experience discomfort.

7.1 VSS works well enough

With the React+ hooked up to my PC and 7.1 virtual surround sound enabled, I gave it a thorough testing with Apex Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War.

Anyone that has read my headset reviews before will know that I’m not the biggest fan of virtual surround sound and rarely choose to use it over simple stereo. Happily, Fnatic’s flavor of 7.1 VSS is less offensive than most, allowing for airiness without drastically impacting overall sound quality.

Impressive directionality

So the VSS is cool, but I’d still go with stereo. That’s not necessarily a knock against this headset’s 7.1, but more a compliment to how good the imaging is in the React headset when left stock. There’s a surprising amount of directionality that is utilized well in games like Warzone.

Enemies can be heard with ease and it’s clear where they are, without the need to crank up the volume. Though bass is certainly present, it isn’t overpowering. There’s a clear tuning for competitive play, which means useless frequencies don’t get in the way of the footsteps or verbal cues.

Microphone is a winner

Another big highlight of the Fnatic React+ is the microphone. Somehow, Fnatic has risen above the competition with a mic that sounds legitimately great. While it’s not broadcast quality like the XLR-powered BHPS1, it’s definitely top-tier in the realm of gaming headsets.

I’d be more than happy to use this microphone for game and Discord chat, and it could even pass for the occasional live stream. Where its competition has failed to significantly improve mic quality, Fnatic has achieved gold.

Fnatic React vs React+

When it comes to the Fnatic React vs the React+ package, I think that the former offers tremendous value for money, especially when if you nab it on sale. With that said, the addition of 7.1 VSS on the React+, as well as the bonus ear pads that will be a lifesaver during hotter months, are well worth considering.

Fnatic React+ Review: The final verdict

With the React and React+, Fnatic has combined understated design with fantastic gaming audio at extremely attractive prices. They also have the surprising bonus of better-than-you-expect mic audio.

The Fnatic React and React+ have earned spots on my shortlist of sub-$100 go-to gaming headset recommendations. I can’t wait to see what the company does next, as it is on a roll!

React+ gaming headset review unit was provided by Fnatic.