Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) vs Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) is the better buy for most people - its incredible 70-hour battery life crushes the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) with just 50 hours. If you're gaming for hours or need a headset for long sessions, this difference is a game-changer. In real-world use, the Razer's HyperClear Super Wideband mic delivers top-notch voice clarity, making it perfect for streamers or gamers. Meanwhile, the Audio-Technica excels in sound quality with LDAC support, but it lacks Active Noise Cancelling, so you'll have to weigh sound performance against battery life and mic quality.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Expand
Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) vs Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
| Criterion | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) | Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.4(3,219)Amazon | ★4(11,865)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) | 2.4 GHz HyperSpeed (USB-A dongle) + Bluetooth 5.2 + USB-C (Wired Audio & Charging) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.2 |
Codecs | LDAC, AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC |
ANC | No (Passive noise isolation only) | No (Passive noise isolation via memory foam seals) |
Transparency | No | No |
Drivers | 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets | Razer TriForce Titanium 50 mm Drivers |
Frequency Response | 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz | 12 Hz – 28,000 Hz |
Microphones | Dual MEMS microphones (beamforming) | Detachable Razer HyperClear Super Wideband Mic (32 kHz sampling rate) |
Battery Life | Up to 50 hours (Continuous use) | Up to 70 hours (2.4 GHz wireless) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C; ~3.5 hours full charge; 10 min rapid charge = up to 3 hours playback | USB-C; ~4 hours full charge; 15 min rapid charge = 6 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | Yes (SmartSwitch Dual Wireless: Toggles between 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (via Audio-Technica CONNECT app) | Yes (via 2.4 GHz HyperSpeed dongle) |
Wired Mode | Yes (1.2 m / 3.9' cable included; works with zero battery) | Yes (USB-C to USB-A cable for digital audio + charging; NO 3.5mm jack) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 10.8 oz (307 g) | 11.3 oz (320 g) |
Controls | Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, Volume, Multifunction/Voice Assistant) | Physical knobs/buttons (Volume knob, Mic mute, Power, SmartSwitch/EQ button) |
App Eq | Audio-Technica CONNECT app (5-band EQ, Codec switch, Low Latency, L/R Balance) | Razer Synapse (PC); On-headset eSports FPS Profiles (Apex, CoD, CS:GO, Valorant) |
Extras | Google Fast Pair; Amazon Alexa built-in; Sidetone circuitry; 1.2 m cable & carrying pouch included | THX Spatial Audio (Windows only); Breathable FlowKnit memory foam cushions; USB extender cable included |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. | Check Price on Amazon→ | Check Price on Amazon→ |
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
✓ Pros:
- • Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- • High-resolution audio support via LDAC codec
- • Multipoint pairing allows seamless switching between two devices
- • Preserves the acclaimed sonic signature of the wired M50x studio monitors
- • Dedicated low-latency mode improves lip-sync for gaming and video
✗ Cons:
- • Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors
- • No official IP water or dust resistance rating
- • Passive noise isolation is effective but not equal to active solutions
- • Clamp force may feel tight for some users during extended listening sessions
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
✓ Pros:
- • HyperClear Super Wideband Mic delivers near-broadcast vocal clarity (best-in-class for wireless)
- • Exceptional 70-hour battery life eliminates frequent charging interruptions
- • On-board FPS audio profiles tuned by pro gamers (usable without software running)
- • Extremely comfortable clamping force and breathable cushions for long sessions
- • SmartSwitch allows seamless toggling between PC (dongle) and phone (Bluetooth) audio
✗ Cons:
- • Completely lacks a 3.5mm analog jack (cannot connect to Xbox controllers or older devices)
- • No Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) features
- • SmartSwitch does not mix audio simultaneously (one source at a time)
- • Full feature set (THX Spatial, precise EQ) is locked to Razer Synapse software on PC
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Which one is better?
The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) is the better buy for most people - its outstanding 70-hour battery life crushes the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black). That said, grab the Audio-Technica if you prioritize high-resolution audio and don’t mind a bit less battery life - it's a no-brainer for audiophiles.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) if: you need high-resolution audio support with LDAC, prefer a lighter headset at 10.8oz, or want to switch between devices seamlessly.
Choose the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) if: you need a top-tier mic for streaming, require up to 70 hours of battery for marathon gaming, or want an extremely comfortable fit for long sessions.
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) excels if you value exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) is better if you prioritize hyperclear super wideband mic delivers near-broadcast vocal clarity (best-in-class for wireless). Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
Affiliate disclosure
PageBen uses Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This supports independent content for US shoppers.