Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) vs Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
Get the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) unless you need longer battery life. The specs show a 70-hour battery vs the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)'s 50-hour offering, which is perfect for gaming marathons or long listening sessions. In real-world use, the choice boils down to features. The BlackShark's HyperClear Super Wideband Mic, perfect for voice clarity, sets it apart for gamers, while the ATH-M50xBT2 excels in audio fidelity with its LDAC support. However, the lack of Active Noise Cancelling on both means neither will drown out the world around you. Key specs: Battery: 50h vs 70h and Mic Quality: Dual MEMS vs HyperClear Super Wideband.
Why compare these? The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) (mid-range) and Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) (high-end) represent different approaches to headphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 | Razer BlackShark |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.4★ (3,219 reviews) | 4★ (11,865 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency | HyperClear Super Wideband Mic delivers near-broadcast vocal clarity (best-in-class for wireless) |
| Main Drawback | Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors | Completely lacks a 3.5mm analog jack (cannot connect to Xbox controllers or older devices) |
| Market Position | Mid-range | ✓Premium |
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog)
Bluetooth 5.0
LDAC, AAC, SBC
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
Over-ear (closed-back)
2.4 GHz HyperSpeed (USB-A dongle) + Bluetooth 5.2 + USB-C (Wired Audio & Charging)
Bluetooth 5.2
AAC, SBC
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.
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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 |
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Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog)
Bluetooth 5.0
LDAC, AAC, SBC
No (Passive noise isolation only)
No
Pros
- Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- High-resolution audio support via LDAC codec
Cons
- Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors
- No official IP water or dust resistance rating
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
Over-ear (closed-back)
2.4 GHz HyperSpeed (USB-A dongle) + Bluetooth 5.2 + USB-C (Wired Audio & Charging)
Bluetooth 5.2
AAC, SBC
No (Passive noise isolation via memory foam seals)
No
Pros
- HyperClear Super Wideband Mic delivers near-broadcast vocal clarity (best-in-class for wireless)
- Exceptional 70-hour battery life eliminates frequent charging interruptions
Cons
- Completely lacks a 3.5mm analog jack (cannot connect to Xbox controllers or older devices)
- No Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) features
Which one is better?
The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) is the better buy for most people - its 70-hour battery crushes the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black). That said, grab the ATH-M50xBT2 if you want exceptional audio fidelity and a lighter design - it's lighter.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) if: you prioritize high-resolution audio quality, need a lighter headset for extended wear, or prefer longer audio playback without frequent charging. (10.83 oz weight)
Choose the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) if: you want the best vocal clarity for gaming, need a long-lasting battery for marathon sessions, or want advanced audio profiles optimized for competitive play. (11.29 oz weight)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.4★ vs 4★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 11,865 reviews vs 3,219
→ Choose Razer BlackShark
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Razer BlackShark
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Bottom line: The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) edges ahead with a 4.4★ rating compared to 4★. However, Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) or Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)?
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) is the better choice if you prioritize exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) wins if you value hyperclear super wideband mic delivers near-broadcast vocal clarity (best-in-class for wireless). Both are rated highly (4.4★ vs 4★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) and Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)?
Key differences: Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) offers exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency, while Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) stands out with hyperclear super wideband mic delivers near-broadcast vocal clarity (best-in-class for wireless). Consider that Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) lacks active noise cancelling (anc) and transparency modes found in competitors. Meanwhile, Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) completely lacks a 3.5mm analog jack (cannot connect to xbox controllers or older devices). Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 26, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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