The JBL Quantum series of gamer headsets is an expansive one, with nine unique models making up the series, ranging from the entry-level JBL Quantum 100 to the premium JBL Quantum One. The JBL Quantum 300 sits roughly in the middle of all the available options, providing an affordable middle ground to gamers who want a quality audio experience without breaking the bank.
The JBL Quantum 300 headset is an over-ear headset that comes with everything players need to get started. The JBL Quantum 300 includes 3.5mm connectivity, but also ships with a USB adapter. The headset's range of options allows it to be compatible with everything from the PS4 and Xbox One to the next-gen PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, as well as the Nintendo Switch, and of course, PCs.
The headset comes equipped with a flip-up boom mic that lets players shut off their audio at a moment's notice, while returning to an audio chat is seamless, only requiring players to flip the mic back down again. A satisfying 'click' can be felt and heard when sliding the mic up, letting the player know that it's in the off position. The arm of the mic is firm, and never slipped or moved on its own, ensuring that the user won't be heard when they don't want to be.
The microphone performed well in testing, delivering clear audio to listeners on the other side. The foam tip on the mic also does an adequate job of preventing severe popping sounds. However, the mic may not be a good choice for players who are engaging in noisy environments, as it also picked up any nearby sounds quite readily.
Players who enjoy multiple gaming systems will likely appreciate the JBL Quantum 300, as it can be used across a myriad of different devices. However, the included JBLQuantumENGINE software is only available for PC users. With that being said, the headset provides good quality audio regardless of the system it was used on.
As a wired headset, the JBL Quantum 300 includes a surprisingly thin braided cable, which didn't seem to coil up on itself as much as thicker cables do. However, it did raise concerns as to the longevity of the cable, particularly for gamers who are a bit rougher with their peripherals. In testing, though, it performed admirably, and there were no audio defects even when the cable was stretched or squeezed.
While the JBL Quantum 300 lacks any kind of on-cable controls, it does feature a volume wheel on the left ear. The volume wheel does what one would expect, though its placement was a tad cumbersome in actual use, with the wheel placed on the back of the earcup. Players may initially find themselves fumbling for the volume controls, though it will likely become second nature with time.
Of course, one of the most important things to players will be the quality of the JBL Quantum 300's sound. It's here where the headset genuinely shines. The audio provided by the JBL Quantum 300's 50mm dynamic drivers and the JBL QuantumENGINE software is crisp and clear, providing spatial awareness via 7.1 surround sound. The audio not only allowed for a greater sense of where sounds were being generated from, but also brought some sounds forward that would otherwise be muddy or unnoticeable with non-7.1 surround headsets. Everything from the weather to the gentle hum of in-game electronics became more noticeable, but not overwhelming, letting the player focus on what's important. While the JBL Quantum 300 doesn't have particularly heavy bass, it proved to be more than sufficient while playing games.
As far as comfort and fit goes, the JBL Quantum 300 is surprisingly lightweight, and never sagged on the head, ensuring that there was no pressure on the scalp or excess weight that could trigger headaches for some players. It also features padded memory foam earcups, which provide a snug fit over the ears, preventing audio from leaking out and offering a tight enough fit that the headset doesn't shift or fall off when moving one's head suddenly. However, despite the padded ear cups, some pinched ear discomfort did occur after many hours of use.
Overall, the JBL Quantum 300 offers a great entry point for gamers who want a better sense of their surroundings and an adaptable headset that can be used across multiple devices. While not the cheapest headset on the market, the JBL Quantum 300's audio and additional PC surround sound features provide for a superior gaming experience that may give the edge players need to notice in-game threats before they become lethal.
The JBL Quantum 300 retails for $79.95 and is available now. Game ZXC was provided the JBL Quantum 300 headset for this review.
Click here to get your own JBL Quantum 300 Gaming Headset
