ASUS ROG Cetra Open Wireless Earbuds Review: A Game-Changer for Handheld Gaming

The ASUS ROG Cetra Open Wireless earbuds are shaking up the gaming audio landscape with their unique open-ear design and innovative USB-C transmitter. These aren’t your typical gaming earbuds—they’re large, open-style devices that rest just outside your ears, allowing game audio to blend naturally with your environment.

Design and Comfort

The Cetra Open’s open-ear design is immediately striking. Unlike traditional in-ear buds that create a seal, these rest gently on the outer ear, providing a different kind of audio experience. This design choice means you’ll hear your game audio alongside ambient sounds, which can be both a blessing and a curse depending on your environment.

The earbuds themselves are substantial, feeling more like miniaturized headphones than traditional earbuds. They come with a reflective neckband that can be attached for added security—a thoughtful addition for those worried about losing an earbud during intense gaming sessions.

The Game-Changing USB-C Transmitter

Where the Cetra Open truly shines is with its included USB-C 2.4GHz audio transmitter. This compact device features a passthrough USB-C port, allowing you to charge your handheld gaming device while simultaneously using the earbuds. This is a massive improvement over competitors like the SteelSeries Arctis Buds or Sony InZone Buds, whose transmitters either lack passthrough charging or are bulkier.

The transmitter supports up to 60W one-way charging, more than enough for modern gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch 2. This means you can game for hours without worrying about battery life—both for your earbuds and your device.

Sound Quality and Performance

ASUS has implemented a “Phantom Bass” feature that helps compensate for the open design’s typically weaker bass response. While you won’t get the same bass impact as sealed earbuds, the sound quality is surprisingly full-bodied with solid mids and decent bass presence.

The 2.4GHz wireless connection provides low-latency audio perfect for gaming, while Bluetooth connectivity offers flexibility for everyday use. The earbuds support multipoint connectivity, allowing you to connect to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously or maintain a connection to both Bluetooth and the 2.4GHz transmitter.

Battery life is impressive: up to 16 hours in Bluetooth mode (with RGB LEDs and mics off) and around 10 hours in 2.4GHz mode. The charging case, while not the smallest available, can recharge the earbuds multiple times before needing its own charge.

Software and Customization

ASUS offers multiple ways to customize your audio experience. The Armoury Crate mobile app provides comprehensive control over audio settings, microphone options, and lighting effects. For PC users, the browser-based Gear Link site offers similar functionality without requiring any software installation.

You can customize button functions on each earbud, setting different commands for single, double, triple, or quadruple presses. Audio prompts can be switched between English and Chinese or set to play sounds instead of voice prompts.

Gaming Experience

The open design makes these earbuds particularly well-suited for gaming in shared spaces. You can hear game audio at reasonable volumes while still being aware of your surroundings and maintaining conversations—no more constantly removing an earbud to ask “What did you say?”

I found them excellent for late-night gaming sessions on the couch, where I could enjoy immersive audio without completely isolating myself from family members. They work exceptionally well with handheld gaming devices, providing high-quality audio without the bulk of traditional gaming headsets.

Considerations

The open design isn’t for everyone. In noisy environments, you may struggle to hear your audio clearly, and at higher volumes, those nearby might hear what you’re listening to. If you prefer complete noise isolation or need active noise cancellation, these aren’t the right choice.

The charging case, while functional, is larger than some competitors’ offerings and lacks wireless charging capabilities.

Verdict

The ASUS ROG Cetra Open Wireless earbuds are a unique proposition in the gaming audio market. Their open design, innovative USB-C transmitter with passthrough charging, and comfortable fit make them particularly appealing for handheld gaming enthusiasts. While they won’t replace traditional sealed earbuds for every scenario, they excel in their niche.

At their price point, they offer compelling value, especially when you factor in the superior transmitter and the flexibility it provides. If you game frequently on handheld devices and appreciate being able to hear your surroundings, these earbuds deserve serious consideration.

Tags: ASUS, ROG, Cetra Open, wireless earbuds, gaming audio, USB-C transmitter, handheld gaming, Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, open-ear design, 2.4GHz audio, multipoint connectivity, Phantom Bass, gaming accessories, tech review

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