The Siberia line of gaming headsets from Steelseries has developed quite a following over the years. One of the most popular was the iconic Siberia V2, known for its exceptional comfort and sound quality. In 2015, Steelseries introduced the Siberia 200 as an upgrade over the venerable V2.
With a familiar design but new color options, upgraded ear cups and other tweaks, the Siberia 200 promises better durability and audio than its predecessor. But with a $79 price tag and wired connectivity only, it makes some compromises too.
So should you choose the Siberia 200 for your gaming audio needs? In this in-depth Siberia 200 review, we’ll cover everything you need to know about these headphones to decide if they are worth buying.
Overview and Background
First released in October 2015 at $79.99, the Steelseries Siberia 200 retains the classic Siberia look, feel and sound. The company calls it an “heir” to the iconic Siberia V2 gaming headphones.
Image: Steelseries
Let’s look at exactly how the Siberia 200 compares to other Siberia models:
Models: The Siberia line also includes the Siberia 100, 350, Elite and V3 among others. Original Siberia V1 and V2 models have been discontinued.
Design: Nearly identical design to the discontinued V2, with updated colors and ear cups. Does not fold down like some Siberia models.
Colors: Comes in 7 color options – Alchemy Gold, Sakura Purple, Forged Red, Proton Yellow, Gaia Green and the standard Glossy White and Black.
Price: At $79, the Siberia 200 is far more affordable than premium Siberia models that can cost over $150. Good budget/value option in the Siberia lineup.
In a nutshell, the Siberia 200 aims to deliver the classic Siberia comfort and sound at a more accessible price point. It may not have all the bells and whistles, but what you do get is a lightweight, great sounding wired headset built for gaming marathons.
Siberia 200 Gaming Headset Review
Here is an in-depth evaluation across all aspects, from comfort to sound to value. We will highlight where the Siberia 200 shines and what it compromises on due to its budget price.
A) Design and Build Quality
The Siberia 200 looks nearly identical to the older V2, apart from the updated colors which give it a fresh new look. It retains the exposed outer ear cups and adjustable padded headband that make this line so comfortable for long gaming sessions.
Build quality is fairly average, with a lightweight plastic design that helps reduce head fatigue but also feels a bit cheap and delicate. The non-detachable padded leatherette ear cups could be more durable.
On the plus side, Steelseries has used matte plastic on the ear cups instead of the previous glossy finish to prevent smudging and fingerprints. The flexible retractable microphone also adds to the portability.
B) Fit and Comfort
While build quality takes a slight hit due to cost-cutting, comfort is still excellent on the Siberia 200. The suspension style headband, inspired by high-end ski goggle straps, evenly distributes weight and adapts to different head sizes.
Soft, generously padded ear cups fit securely around the ear without clamping hard. At just 0.53 lbs, the Siberia 200 prevents discomfort even during marathon gaming sessions thanks to its ergonomic lightweight design. Those with larger heads should note the cups fit those with head circumferences of up to 60 cm only.
C) Connectivity and Controls
In keeping its price low, the Siberia 200 gaming headset relies on tried-and-tested wired connectivity only. It uses a 1.8 meter cable that splits into two 3.5mm audio jacks – one for audio out and one for the mic.
The standard 3.5mm connections make the Siberia 200 nearly universally compatible with laptops, consoles and mobile devices. A 4 pole adapter is included for use with phones and tablets that use a combined audio/mic port.
For audio controls, the Siberia 200 keeps things simple with volume/mute dials conveniently located on the ear cup. There is no software support for customizing controls or sound profiles. This is a plug-and-play analog headset.
D) Sound Quality
Audio performance is an area where the Siberia 200 delivers strongly for its price bracket. The large 50mm neodymium speaker drivers enclosed in padded leatherette ear cups produce expansive, well-balanced sound with that signature Siberia immersive soundstage.
Highs and mids sound crisp and clear, while low frequencies have a satisfying thump considering the price. The semi-open ear cup design gives the audio extra openness but also affects noise isolation – ambient noises do seep in so this may not be ideal in very noisy environments.
For gaming and entertainment, the Siberia 200 provides accurate spacial imaging and atmospheric audio. Explosions boom, special effects pop nicely and panned effects can be clearly tracked. Voices in music tracks or games sound vibrant and distortion-free even at high volumes.
The flexible microphone also works very well for in-game chatting or streaming. It has a 50Hz-16kHz frequency response and -38dB sensitivity for capturing clear, natural voice pick-up. An LED indicator lets you know when the mic is active.
Siberia 200 Pros and Cons Summary
| Pros | – Attractive updated color options
– Comfortable for extended wear
– Expansive soundstage and audio
– Good price for features |
| Cons | – Cheap lightweight build
– No noise isolation
– Non-detachable ear cups
– No software for customization |
Conclusion
To sum up this Siberia 200 review, these gaming headphones deliver where it matters most – wearing and listening comfort, great sound quality for the price, plug-and-play convenience and flashy style. Build quality and noise isolation could be better, but are understandable compromises for the budget price.
The Siberia 200 makes for a great starter gaming headset for casual gamers on a budget. It works across platforms, looks and sounds cooler than typical cheap headsets and gives you an affordable way to experience Steelseries’ signature Siberia comfort.
More demanding gamers who want wireless connectivity, surround sound or mobile use may want to look at premium Siberia models or other brands. Specifically, the Siberia 200 is not ideal for outdoor or loud environment use due to sound leakage.
However, if your needs are simple and your budget limited, the versatile and value-packed Siberia 200 immersive gaming headset comes highly recommended. Grab them while they are hot!
