Audio-Technica’s latest $99 headset concentrates on the two essentials that gamers truly require.

      At times, a quality headset simply needs to deliver good sound and have a reasonable microphone.

      Gaming headsets currently offer a plethora of features, including wireless connectivity, surround sound options, RGB lighting, and companion applications. However, Audio-Technica is opting for a more straightforward design with its latest ATH-M20xSTS StreamSet, concentrating primarily on the audio quality and microphone functionality.

      This new wired headset is priced at $99 and draws its basic design from Audio-Technica’s ATH-M20x professional monitor headphones. It also includes a cardioid condenser microphone derived from the company’s 20 Series mics.

      Of course, using known hardware doesn’t necessarily mean that the ATH-M20xSTS will outperform other gaming headsets in this price range. Testing would be needed to make that assessment. Nonetheless, Audio-Technica seems to be focusing on the essential components of a gaming headset that users will utilize frequently.

      Audio-Technica is utilizing familiar components.

      The ATH-M20xSTS is equipped with 40mm drivers that feature copper-clad aluminum voice coils and a frequency response range of 15Hz to 20kHz. The headset employs a closed-back over-ear structure, with Audio-Technica stating that the drivers are optimized for enhanced low-frequency sound.

      For voice communication and streaming, it includes a unidirectional condenser microphone attached to a flexible boom arm, designed to emphasize the user's voice while minimizing background noise. Moving the boom upward automatically mutes the microphone. The headset weighs about 230 grams and features replaceable breathable mesh earpads, which could enhance comfort during extended gaming or streaming sessions.

      There are few additional features.

      Connectivity is provided through a detachable 6.6-foot cable with a 3.5mm TRRS plug. Audio-Technica also includes USB Type-A and USB Type-C adapters for PCs, Macs, mobile devices, and compatible gaming consoles. There is no wireless option, eliminating the need for battery charging or tracking a dongle. The ATH-M20xSTS also omits extras like RGB lighting and virtual surround sound options.

      At a price of $99, the ATH-M20xSTS presents itself as a straightforward gaming headset, focusing on essential features rather than an extensive list of specifications. Audio-Technica is centralizing its expertise in headphone and microphone development in this model.

      I have around four years of experience, primarily focusing on gaming, PC hardware, and smartphones. In my leisure time, I enjoy…

      Plaud One AI earbuds can remember conversations and assist with follow-up tasks.

      Plaud has created earbuds that listen to meetings, allowing you to forget what was discussed.

      For years, AI has aimed to be more functional during conversations, yet most of its capabilities still operate behind a screen. Plaud seeks to change that with a pair of earbuds designed to listen to dialogues, grasp what is important, and take action accordingly. The company has launched the Plaud One Explorer Edition, a wearable AI device tailored for professionals whose work centers around meetings, phone calls, ideas, and follow-ups. It presents a new interface for an "agent era," states Plaud, merging specialized hardware with its Plaud Intelligence platform to record conversations, comprehend intentions, and carry out tasks across connected services.

      Samsung has created a 1,100Hz gaming monitor because 600Hz was apparently insufficiently fast.

      Samsung has determined that 600Hz gaming monitors are outdated. At Gamescom 2026, the company unveiled its 27-inch Odyssey G6, capable of reaching a remarkable refresh rate of 1,100Hz. This figure slightly exceeds the previously announced maximum of 1,040Hz for the same model, though Samsung has not clarified what prompted this change.

      Cyberpunk 2077 is enhancing Samsung’s glasses-free 3D gaming monitor.

      Samsung is broadening Odyssey 3D support by introducing more prominent games as it seeks to elevate the perception of glasses-free 3D beyond a mere novelty. The Odyssey 3D gaming monitor will showcase Cyberpunk 2077, which now features dedicated support for the technology, with confirmation of this addition alongside another presentation of Cronos: The New Dawn. Both titles will be showcased on the Odyssey 3D during Gamescom 2026. Samsung is fostering support through partnerships with game studios rather than applying the same 3D effects universally across all games.