During the COVID-19 period, Creative launched the first Creative Chat series headset and I quite like it. The USB version is more useful as the volume integrates with the Windows volume controls and it auto-mutes when the boom mic flips upwards. So when Creative launched the wireless version, I jumped at it for a review. I was really hoping to replace my existing wired USB headset at work. Retailing at S$89, I know I have to manage my expectations. In my heart, I know the Chat Wireless can never beat the Jabra Evolve2 65 Flex, by far my favourite headset. If budget is not an issue (RRP S$518), go for it!
What I Like
It’s wireless!
That’s the biggest draw. Getting into work calls without wireless is liberating, literally. So many times have the headset cables tangled with my office chair armrest and when I leave my seat, the headset went flying and the laptop get dragged a few inches around. But why not wireless earbuds? Because the mic are not close to the mouth and there are too much noise cancelling going on that actually reduces voice quality.
It connects to two wireless devices!
The Chat Wireless comes with a dongle that connects at 2.4GHz. Separately, the headset can be connected to another device via Classic Bluetooth. This means I can connect the same headset to both my office laptop and my work phone, allowing me to switch seamlessly to each other, especially when I want to handover my TEAMS session in between devices. No longer do I have to switch to another wireless earbuds paired to my phone.
How does the Chat Wireless handle priority between the two devices? Based on my test, it will switch to the device that sends a new audio signal and actively pauses the other stream, for instance, when you are watching YouTube videos when you receive an incoming call from another device.
Mic can flip for left or right side use!
While the default design is to wear the boom mic on the left side, if you really prefer to be on the right side, just flip the headset and swivel the boom mic the other way. Though the audio channels do not get swapped, it doesn’t matter for mono-channel voice calls.
What It Needs To Be Better
Mic is not that clear
Compared to my current headset, the Chat Wireless is a little less sparkly and the mic is less sensitive. Neither does it come with advanced software controls compared to the Chat USB. You are still audible from the other party, just that it could some a little muffled, which may not be a bad thing unless you prefer to sound like a podcaster.
Music Quality
Using it for voice is fine, but using it for music is underwhelming. The bass lacks impact and the treble is not precise. If you needed a headset also for casual music listening, the Chat Wireless will be a turnoff.
Volume buttons
The volume control is independent from the device. When adjusting, the volume movement is minor and not real-time. When you press and hold, it works as track changes. And finally, if you ask me, I felt the button placement is not intuitive, as I would prefer both buttons to be close to each other
Verdict
If you want a versatile wireless headset for basic communications, the Creative Chat Wireless is a no-frills solution. It uses 2.4GHz frequency via the USB dongle that is more stable than the Bluetooth protocol implemented on the laptops. It can be paired via Bluetooth to a second device and switch over conveniently. Retailing at S$89, the Creative Chat Wireless can be a thoughtful year-end gift for your hardworking office colleagues.
Visit the Creative Official Page for more product info. https://sg.creative.com/p/headphones-headsets/creative-chat-wireless
1 comment
Hope to see you get featured in soundblaster re:imagine launch in Kickstarter.
It is a rank one product. Modular, high quality amp, multiple I/O, AI infusion and most importantly, hackable (you can write your own apps, huge community incoming)
Sxfi was not even close.
Bought heavily into Creative shares at 60+ cents. Way too cheap for a rank one product.
Potentially a hyper-bagged stock in 2025/2026.
No joke.