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ASUS’s ROG Cetra Open Wireless earbuds are a genuinely appealing companion for handheld gaming if you want to hear the room, avoid in-ear pressure, and still get a gaming-focused 2.4GHz connection. They are not a universal upgrade: the open design gives up isolation and some bass impact, and at ASUS’s listed US price of $229.99, they are an expensive choice if you do not specifically want open-ear audio.
Why open earbuds make sense for handheld gaming
A handheld lets you take a game to the sofa, a shared office, or a quiet corner of a dorm. In those places, a closed headset can make it harder to hear someone speaking to you, a doorbell, or what is happening elsewhere in the room. Open earbuds address that problem without the heat and bulk of over-ear headphones—and without placing a sealed tip in your ear canal.
That is the Cetra Open Wireless’s real appeal. Its open-style speakers sit by the ears rather than sealing them, with soft ear hooks to hold the buds in place. You can listen to a game and remain aware of your surroundings. The compromise goes both ways, though: outside noise can compete with the game, and people nearby may hear some of your audio, especially at higher volume. These are not private earbuds or a good choice for a noisy train, airplane, gym, or café.
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2.4GHz is the feature that makes them gaming earbuds
Ordinary Bluetooth earbuds can be convenient for music and calls, but Bluetooth is not always the best choice when you want game audio to stay closely synchronized with what is happening on screen. ASUS includes a USB-C dongle using its ROG SpeedNova 2.4GHz connection, which it positions as an ultra-low-latency gaming mode. Independent reviewers have praised the gaming experience, but no measured latency figure is provided here, so treat “low latency” as a product feature and reviewer impression—not a guarantee for every device and setup.
#1 Best Overall
- Dual-Mode Connectivity: With Bluetooth and low-latency ROG SpeedNova 2.4GHz connectivity, plus USB-C passthrough charging* that powers your phone without interrupting audio. *only provide one-way passthrough charging
- 14.2 mm DLC-coated Diaphragm Drivers: Featuring a 14.2mm DLC-coated diaphragm, deliver crisp highs, deep bass, and a spacious soundstage. Enjoy open-ear comfort or switch to immersive mode.
- IPX5 Water-Resistant Gaming Open Earbuds: With IPX5 water-resistant protection, your music stays with you through rain, sweat, and everyday adventures.
- Extended Battery Life with Fast Charging: Enjoy up to 16 hours of continuous use. Additionally, a quick 15-minute charge provides 3 hours of usage.
- Smart Audio Features: Includes Phantom Bass for enhanced low end, Immersion Mode for noise reduction.
For a compatible handheld, use the dongle for gaming and Bluetooth for general listening when carrying or connecting the dongle is inconvenient. The dongle occupies the USB-C port, so ASUS’s one-way USB-C passthrough arrangement matters: it is intended to let you connect power while the dongle is in use. That is useful on a long session, but it does not make the setup as tidy as a direct wireless connection. A protective case, grip, dock, or recessed port may also affect the fit. Check the port clearance before relying on passthrough charging.
Steam Deck, ROG Ally, Switch, and phones: check the connection, not just the platform list
ASUS lists PC, Mac, PlayStation 4 and 5, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android, and Bluetooth devices among supported platforms. That broad list does not establish that every feature works identically on every handheld, operating-system version, case, dock, or accessory.
- Steam Deck and Steam Deck OLED: Their USB-C/PC use makes the dongle a plausible gaming connection, but check whether your case leaves room for it and confirm charging passthrough works in your actual setup.
- ROG Ally and Ally X: ASUS itself illustrates the dongle connected to an Ally X. The port can still be awkward with a case or accessories, so a short USB-C extension may be more practical if the dongle sticks out or gets in the way. Do not assume passthrough replaces a powered dock or meets every high-power charging scenario.
- Nintendo Switch and Switch 2: ASUS lists Nintendo Switch support, but the available specifications do not provide a complete model-by-model matrix for handheld, docked, cased, and microphone use. Verify the behavior you need rather than assuming every mode is covered by the platform label.
- Phones and tablets: Bluetooth is the straightforward general-listening option. ASUS says 2.4GHz dongle mode is not supported on iOS and that Android Gear Link mobile features are pending a future update. Dongle audio compatibility and companion-app compatibility are separate questions; do not infer one from the other.
- PlayStation: PS4 and PS5 are on ASUS’s compatibility list, but check which controls and chat features work in the connection mode you plan to use.
For the exact connection and current software caveats, see ASUS’s product page and specifications. Compatibility can change with firmware and software updates.
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- 🎧 OPEN-EAR DESIGN FOR AWARENESS & COMFORT | Experience crystal-clear sound while staying fully aware of your surroundings with these open ear earbuds. The Raycon open earbuds, deliver high-quality audio without blocking your environment—making them ideal open ear buds for workouts, running headphones, commuting, or multitasking throughout the day. Enjoy the freedom and safety of open audio that lets you hear what matters around you.
- 🪶 FEATHERLIGHT, SECURE FIT | Raycon Essential open ear earbuds are incredibly lightweight and comfortable, so you may forget you’re even wearing them. The minimalist, ear-hugging design keeps these open ear headphones wireless bluetooth securely in place during intense movement, while maintaining a sleek, modern look that fits effortlessly into your lifestyle.
- 🏃♂️ BUILT FOR ON-THE-GO MOVEMENT | Sweat-resistant and made for motion, these open earbuds are perfect for gym sessions, cycling headphones, and everyday activity. Designed to be pocket-sized, portable, and easy to wear—just place the comfort hook behind your ear and adjust the open ear buds for your ideal secure fit. Refer to the product guide below to dial in the perfect position.
- 🔋 LONG BATTERY LIFE + EASY CHARGING | Power through your day with 36 hours of dependable battery life and a sleek charging case that fits easily in your hand or pocket. The Essential Open Earbuds keep you moving with fast, convenient charging—less downtime, more freedom, and all-day performance.
Comfort and sound: clear, open, and fit-dependent
Ear hooks avoid the canal pressure of conventional in-ear buds, and reviewers have described the design as comfortable. That is a promising trait for long sessions, not a guarantee: fit depends on ear shape and on where each speaker sits relative to the ear. The hooks may also interact differently with glasses, hats, or masks, and a bud that presses against a pillow may be uncomfortable if you recline. Try them for a sustained session during the return period if possible.
ASUS specifies 14mm drivers on its technical page and describes them as 14.2mm on its marketing page; it also lists a Diamond-Like Carbon-coated diaphragm. Those specifications do not erase the limits of an open design. WIRED reported clear, punchy sound and a low-latency gaming experience, while the practical strength here is clarity with awareness of the room—not sealed-headphone immersion. Dialogue and many effects can come through clearly, but expect less isolation and less forceful low bass than from sealed earbuds or over-ear headphones. External noise can also mask quieter details, and audio leakage is possible in a quiet room.
ASUS promotes onboard audio modes, including features intended to enhance the listening experience. They may change the presentation, but they cannot make an open earbud isolate like a sealed one. If competitive play depends on hearing faint cues in a noisy space, or if you want heavy impact from explosions and music, a sealed gaming earbud or headset is a safer fit.
Rank #3
- Note : If the size of the earbud tips does not match the size of your ear canals or the headset is not worn properly in your ears, you may not obtain the correct sound qualities or call performance. Change the earbud tips to ones that fit more snugly in your ear
- NCREDIBLE AUDIO, IMMERSIVE GAMING - The ROG Cetra II Core Moonlight White in-ear gaming headphones feature ASUS Essence drivers made of liquid silicone rubber (LSR) for impeccable audio quality. The headphones allow users to enjoy gaming-grade sound with a wide variety of platforms.
- ADVANCED AUDIO DRIVER DESIGN - ASUS Essence drivers are made of liquid silicone rubber and are designed to provide more stable speaker performance and incredibly strong bass.
- BETTER DESIGN FOR HANDHELD GAMING - The ROG Cetra II Core Moonlight White comes with a 90° connector that keeps the headphone cable out of the way, improving comfort during portable gaming.
- LIGHTWEIGHT, DURABLE ALUMINUM HOUSING - Crafted from sleek, lightweight aluminum, the ROG Cetra II Core Moonlight White has a striking, elegant look that is complemented with scratch resistance, elevating aesthetics and durability.
Battery: 64 hours includes the case, not one charge
ASUS advertises up to 16 hours of playback from the earbuds and up to 48 additional hours from the case, for 64 hours total. The maximum earbud figure is specified for Bluetooth playback with the microphone muted, RGB lighting off, and onboard audio modes disabled. It is not a realistic promise of continuous 2.4GHz gaming with every feature enabled.
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In its testing, SoundGuys measured about nine hours over Bluetooth and six hours 29 minutes using the dongle with immersive mode enabled. Different conditions explain why an independent result can be below the manufacturer’s maximum; the figures are useful in different ways. The practical lesson is to plan around shorter sessions between charges if you use the dongle and audio features, rather than treating 16 hours as guaranteed. Microphone use, lighting, volume, and audio modes can also affect runtime.
ASUS advertises USB-C charging passthrough, which can help when the dongle uses the handheld’s port. The official material cited here does not establish Qi wireless charging, so do not assume the case supports it.
Rank #4
- Open Ear Earbuds Over Ear for Running & Gym: Clip-on design sits comfortably over your ear without blocking the ear canal. Perfect for running, workouts, and sports—stay aware of surroundings. More comfortable than in-ear, better sound than bone conduction.
- FlexiClip Design, Secure Fit: Memory titanium FlexiClip adapts to any ear shape for all-day comfort. Ultra-lightweight and stable—won't fall off during intense workouts or running. Designed for active lifestyles.
- Powerful Bass, 12mm Drivers: Custom 12mm drivers deliver deep bass and 86dB max output. Clear, loud sound for gym workouts and running—superior audio quality compared to bone conduction headphones.
- AI Clear Calls: Advanced AI filters background noise for crystal-clear calls during outdoor running, gym workouts, or commutes. Perfect for work calls on the go.
- 28H Playtime : 8 hours single charge, 28 hours with case. IP55 waterproof protects against sweat and rain during outdoor running and gym sessions. Bluetooth 6.0 for ultra-stable connection.
Microphones, controls, and Gear Link
The buds have four microphones and ASUS advertises AI noise cancellation. That is a specification and marketing claim, not proof that they will outperform a boom microphone in a noisy room. If multiplayer chat matters, check your voice in a quiet room and with the fan, keyboard, television, or other background noise you expect to encounter. Microphone behavior and chat mixing can vary by connection mode and platform.
ASUS lists tap controls for track and call actions, voice assistant access, microphone toggle, and volume, plus a three-second hold to enter Bluetooth pairing. The controls are useful away from a phone, but confirm how they behave in your preferred gaming connection rather than assuming every touch action maps the same way on each platform.
Gear Link is available as a web portal and mobile app for features such as battery status, EQ, and RGB customization. Basic playback should not be confused with requiring a permanent companion app; advanced adjustment is where Gear Link matters. The browser-based setup may be less convenient than a conventional desktop utility. ASUS currently notes that dongle mode is not supported on iOS and that Android mobile Gear Link features are pending a future update, so check current support and firmware details if you expect to customize from a phone.
Best Value
- Ultra-Comfort with Open-Ear Design: Experience matchless comfort even for all-day wear with these non-intrusive, open-ear Bluetooth earbuds.
- Enhanced Situational Awareness: V20i open-ear wireless earbuds let you stay connected to the world while enjoying pristine playback. Ideal for both urban life and outdoor ventures.
- Four Adjustable Positions for a Secure, Comfy Fit: Easily rotate to find the sweet spot for your ears with these bluetooth earbuds, boosting stability and comfort. Listen and move freely with V20i open-ear earbuds throughout the day.
- Powerful Sound with 16mm Drivers: Immerse in rich, resonant bass fueled by V20i's advanced 16mm drivers—featured in these wireless earbuds—with titanium-coated domes and soundcore's proprietary BassUp technology.
- Clear Calls with 4 Mics and AI Enhancement: Equipped with four mics and an AI algorithm, V20i open-ear Bluetooth earbuds ensure crisp and clear calls wherever you are.
The product is listed as IPX5 splash-resistant in ASUS’s CES materials. That is not waterproofing: do not submerge the earbuds or treat the rating as permission to use them in conditions beyond the stated protection.
Is $229.99 worth it?
ASUS lists the Cetra Open Wireless at $229.99 in the US. At that price, you are paying for a relatively unusual combination: open-ear comfort, a dedicated 2.4GHz gaming connection, Bluetooth, and USB-C charging passthrough. That bundle makes sense if conventional earbuds hurt or you regularly need to hear people around you while gaming.
It is much harder to justify if your priority is sound per dollar. A sealed gaming earbud can isolate better and deliver more bass; an over-ear headset may offer a more enveloping presentation. Reviews from Tom’s Guide and TechRadar also flag the Cetra’s high price as a weakness.
- SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds: A sealed gaming-earbud alternative for players who prefer isolation and conventional gaming performance. See SteelSeries’ product page.
- Sony INZONE Buds: Another low-latency gaming-earbud option, especially relevant to PC and PlayStation users, but not a replacement if hearing the room is the point. See Sony’s product page.
- Shokz OpenFit: A lifestyle-oriented open-ear alternative for everyday listening and awareness. The ASUS has the more explicitly gaming-focused 2.4GHz proposition. See Shokz’ product page.
- ASUS ROG Delta II: An over-ear option for someone who wants a larger, more conventional gaming presentation and accepts the extra bulk. See ASUS’ product page.
These alternatives solve different problems; their prices and availability can change. Check current listings before comparing totals. The Cetra’s premium is most defensible when open-ear gaming is a requirement, not merely a novelty.
Who should buy the ROG Cetra Open Wireless?
- Buy it if you play handheld games in a shared, fairly quiet space; dislike in-ear tips; want less bulk than a headset; and value both room awareness and a dedicated gaming connection.
- Consider it if you want one pair for gaming and casual calls or listening, but can tolerate the compromises in isolation and bass and have checked your device’s dongle fit.
- Skip it if you mainly play in loud public places, want maximum cinematic impact, need strong noise isolation or a proven boom-mic chat setup, or are prioritizing value over the open design.
Before committing, test the fit, sound leakage, low-volume noise, Bluetooth and dongle connections, microphone, and passthrough charging with your actual handheld and case. Online community reports of hiss or other problems are anecdotal, not evidence of a universal defect, but a return-window check is sensible for any premium audio purchase.
Verdict
The ASUS ROG Cetra Open Wireless can be a wonderful handheld-gaming companion for a specific player: someone who wants clear, low-latency game audio without shutting out the room or sealing the ear canal. Its USB-C 2.4GHz dongle makes it more gaming-focused than ordinary open earbuds, and passthrough charging helps with the port trade-off. But open audio, variable fit, battery results below the advertised maximum in demanding use, and a $229.99 US list price keep it from being a default recommendation. Buy it because open-ear gaming solves a real problem for you—not because it is the newest way to play.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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