Launched in October of last year alongside the Inzone Buds, the Sony Inzone H5 was introduced as the middle choice between the brand’s H3 and H7 headsets that came before. What you’re getting with this particular model is the same audio driver as the former, but with wireless support and some features borrowed from the latter.
The headset is aimed at a particular audience who fancies the benefits of wireless connectivity, while at the same time not minding on missing out the premium features offered by the Inzone H7 and H9 models. Coming in at a retail price of RM679, it is neither affordable nor expensive, which begs the question: Is it actually worth getting?
As always, kindly read on to find out.
What Is It?
Let’s bring you up to speed. As mentioned earlier, the Sony Inzone H5 comes with the same 40mm driver as the H3 model, along with spatial audio support, a built-in flip-up microphone, and wireless connectivity support via a 2.4GHz dongle, while a 3.5mm jack is available if you wish to use it with the included audio cable. Also onboard is a battery pack to support its cable-free capabilities.
Like the rest of the headsets under the brand’s Inzone series, the H5 also sports a similar black and white minimalist design, though its overall look closely resembles Inzone’s entry-level model. Save, of course, for the addition of a power button and a Game/Chat rocker button underneath the right earcup, as well as a 3.5mm port and a USB-C connector on the left.
Again, like the Inzone H3, the headset sports fabric coated memory foam on its left and right earcups, while the foam on the headband uses faux leather instead. The attached microphone on the left-hand side is adjustable so you can move it closer to your face, and lifting it up will automatically mute it.
Is It Any Good?
Thanks to its light weight, use of memory foam and the ability to swivel the earcups, the Sony Inzone H5 is a very comfortable headset to wear. So much so that I did not experience any strain after using it for extended periods, and the experience is further enhanced thanks to its wireless capabilities. The latter enables me to move away from my PC or video game console, without having to worry about removing the device or severing audio connectivity.
Sound quality on the Inzone H5 is superb for its class, with excellent spatial audio support and volume that grants for an immersive experience. This is especially so for gaming, which it is designed for, as well as for movies and videos. However, mileage may vary when it comes to music. While still considerably good, just don’t expect the H5 to deliver high-end headset levels of clarity or bass.
Meanwhile, the attached microphone works well when it comes to in-game chat or for discord use. However, it isn’t the best choice for streaming or recordings, especially if you’re particular about quality. On the plus side, it does feature AI-powered noise cancelling which isolates your voice from external noises.
Another impressive feat is the H5’s battery life. On paper, Sony claims that the H5 is capable of lasting up to 28 hours on a full charge, which isn’t that far from the truth. During my time with it, I only found myself charging the headset on a weekly basis, as I often use it roughly about three to four hours a day.
A full charge via USB-C roughly takes about four hours via a compatible fast charger, while a quick 10-minute charge could provide you with around three hours of usage. Also keep in mind that the USB port is only for charging, and is not an alternative for wired-based connectivity.
Other highly appreciated features offered by the Inzone H5 includes the ability to prioritise volume to either game or chat audio, as well as the option to have it plugged onto your PC or console via a 3.5mm cable. The latter is useful when the device you’re using does not feature a USB-A port for the headset’s included 2.4GHz dongle.
What’s The Catch
Perhaps the biggest catch is the headset’s limited connectivity options. The Sony Inzone H5 lacks Bluetooth support, so a wireless connection is only available via the included 2.4Ghz dongle. And as mentioned above, you’ll also need a device that has a USB-A port for this to work. But even so, choices here are still short, as the dongle is only compatible with Sony’s own PlayStation 4/5 video game consoles and PCs (sorry, Mac users).
The lack of Bluetooth connectivity also means that you’re unable to pair the headset with a smartphone or other mobile devices, save for those that feature a 3.5mm headphone jack. However, hooking it up through cable will lock you out from certain features, such as customising its equaliser via the Inzone companion app or switching between Game and Chat modes.
Despite allowing for freedom of movement, the H5 isn’t completely a device that you can use elsewhere apart from your gaming room, office, or what have you. But seeing that you can’t detach its microphone, it’s one of those headsets you wouldn’t want to wear outside anyway.
Meanwhile, forgetting or even losing both the dongle and cable will leave the H5 becoming as useful as an overpriced paperweight. Or even a neck ornament…
Lastly, keep in mind that there’s no active noise cancelling (ANC), so expect external sounds to slip in during your gaming sessions. That being said, it is unsurprising for Sony to reserve this particular feature for the high-end Inzone models, namely the H7 and H9. Personally, I don’t mind it that much, though I could imagine how the lack of ANC could ruin immersion in instances where your surrounding environment isn’t too ideal.
Should I Buy It?
If the RM679 price tag isn’t too intimidating for you, then I reckon that the Sony Inzone H5 is a worthwhile deal if you’re in the market for a wireless gaming headset to be used together with your PlayStation console or PC. Its audio performance is very decent, while its battery life is nothing to scoff at. Also not forgetting that the device itself is comfortable to boot.
However, there are still other alternatives out there within the same price range or below for you to consider, with some offering similar or even more features than the H5. My advice is to weigh the available options first before deciding, but if you feel that the Sony midranger is ticking all the right boxes for you, then it may very well be the right pair of gaming-oriented headphones for you.
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