Asus ROG Strix Go 2.4 review: Incredible flexibility for multi-platform gamers

Don’t panic: you didn’t blink and miss the first 2.3 Asus headsets. Rather, the number in the Asus ROG Strix Go 2.4 refers to its choice of wireless technology. Instead of Bluetooth, the headset uses 2.4GHz RF wireless technology via a dongle.

So far, so normal, but the Asus ROG Strix Go 2.4 has a trick up its sleeve so simple it’s astonishing that every headset manufacturer doesn’t copy it. The 2.4GHz wireless adapter is USB-C, and for the majority of devices that come with standard USB-A ports, there’s an adapter in the box. That means you get the best of both worlds, with USB-A supporting PC, Mac, PS5 and your Nintendo Switch when docked, and the USB-C part ready to pop straight into your handheld Switch or Android phone.

There’s no native Xbox wireless support, but that’s not Asus’ fault – it’s due to the proprietary wireless technology Microsoft uses – and you can still pop the accompanying 3.5mm cable into an Xbox pad for semi-wireless play.

In short, it’s the most flexible wireless gaming headset I’ve had the pleasure to use. But does it tick all the other boxes?

Asus ROG Strix Go 2.4 review: What do you get for the money?

At £160, it’s far from the cheapest wireless gaming headset around, but nor is it the most expensive. If you’re a multi-platform gamer with a need for USB-C  and USB-A connectivity, then it may well prove to be a cost-effective option, especially when you consider what else Asus throws in.

Starting with the main audio specs, you’re looking at 40mm drivers with a frequency response of between 20Hz and 20kHz (up to 40kHz when wired). There’s support for virtual 7.1 surround sound in PC games where knowing enemy locations is paramount.

It comes with two microphones: a discreet built-in one for when you’re out and about, and a detachable boom mic for situations when it doesn’t matter if you look like you’ve escaped from air traffic control. Crucially, both of these offer AI-powered noise cancellation to reduce background noise.

And all this is powered by a battery that will last 25 hours on a single charge, with fast charging promising three hours’ use from 15 minutes at the power outlet.

Asus ROG Strix Go 2.4 review: What’s it like to use?

The good news is that you’ll be pretty comfortable for this theoretical 25-hour gaming session. At just 290g, the Strix Go 2.4 is light on the head, easily adjustable, and the memory foam padding means you’re unlikely to suffer from ear ache, although things do heat up even in winter, so I can’t imagine how clammy it will get in summer.

Sound quality is good, although Asus goes for versatility here again, with the best sound in the midrange. The headphones are excellent for music – which is great, given you can easily attach it to your phone and remove the mic for Spotify – but if you like big bassy explosions, you may be better served elsewhere.

The microphone noise cancelling works well, too, with background noise suitably dampened, if not completely eliminated. That’s especially handy if you happen to be pairing the headset with one of the best gaming keyboards with their somewhat noisy mechanical keys.

Asus ROG Strix Go 2.4 review: What isn’t it good at?

Honestly, there’s not too much to complain about. Being picky, the virtual surround sound isn’t the clearest, but it’s not bad by any means. The USB-C adapter is also a slightly odd L shape when it’s undocked from the USB-A adapter, which is fine when it’s attached to your PS5 or PC, but looks a little odd poking out the bottom of your smartphone and could potentially block things if you’re using an MacBook Air where ports are clumped together.

The only major issue I have with the Asus ROG Strix Go 2.4 is that it doesn’t support Bluetooth connections. Not only would that negate the need for the dongle with smartphones, but it would open the door to older Android devices without USB-C and iPhone owners who still have to make do with the Lightning port.

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Asus ROG Strix Go 2.4 review: Should I buy it?

At £160, the Asus ROG Strix Go 2.4 may seem expensive, but if you’re after one headset for multiple uses, it really is terrific value. Sound quality is excellent for music, and it doesn’t look too gamey with its detachable mic, making it a solid choice for on-the-go audio via 3.5mm cable or USB-C dongle.

If you’re only looking for a headset for PC and console gaming – and don’t need dockless Switch play – then I recommend you spend £20 extra on the Razer Black Shark V2 Pro thanks to its larger driver 50mm and superior sound quality. Budget gamers, meanwhile, might prefer the Roccat Elo 7.1 Air for £70 less, but I doubt you’ll be disappointed with what Asus is offering here and, despite the lack of Bluetooth, its flexibility is second to none.