Introduction: A Mid-Tier Contender with Broad Appeal
Logitech has long been a backbone of PC gaming, delivering gear that blends reliability with user-friendly design. The Logitech G522 Lightspeed stepping in as the successor to the G733 aims to fill the gap between esports-focused models and more casual, console-friendly headsets. Priced at $299, it targets gamers who want comfort for long sessions, robust wireless performance, and flexible connectivity. It’s not a flashy flagship, but it’s a well-rounded performer that rewards users who value a balanced feature set over pure specialization.
Design and Comfort: Lightweight Yet Functional
Weighing in around 290 grams, the G522 prioritizes a light, breathable design designed for marathon sessions. The headband distributes weight across the top of the head, and memory-foam earcups deliver a soft seal without excessive clamping. A breathable mesh helps keep ears cool during extended play. The chassis leans on plastic, though Logitech notes 27% recycled material in its construction. The result is a sturdy, comfortable headset that doesn’t feel premium-costly, but it’s noticeably casual- and long-session friendly. Adjustability is modest, with roughly 2 cm of play for the earcups, but once you’ve found your fit, it stays put and comfortable for hours.
The Detachable Mic: Clear Voice with a Trade-Off
Logitech has invested in mic quality, and the G522 showcases it with Blue VO!CE presets accessible through G Hub. Voices come through crisp and broadcast-ready for gaming, with options to tailor the sound for different scenarios. The downside is the mic boom design itself: limited fine-tuning flexibility, and because it’s detachable you risk misplacing the mic if you’re not careful. It isn’t a stowable mic like some rivals, which is a small nag point for users who prize quick concealment.
Sound Quality: PRO-G Drivers Shaped by Software
Out of the box, the G522 presents a neutral tuning. Bass may feel lighter than expected, mids can seem a touch restrained, and highs might lack slice. The key here is software: with G Hub you can apply EQ, DTS Headphone 2.0 for spatial audio, and various presets to tailor the sound. After dialing in your preferred profile, the PRO-G 40 mm drivers reveal their strengths, offering a wide, layered soundstage that helps instruments and effects breathe without muddiness. In music, the separation is notable, and in games, it translates to clearer directional cues and better overall immersion.
In practice, the G522 excels when you tinker with settings. I tested a track like George Benson’s “This Masquerade” to gauge stage width, instrument positioning, and vocal presence. The result was a spacious feel with a centered guitar and a warm bass underpinning the mix. Gaming experiences benefit similarly: with proper EQ, in-game music, effects, and voice chat stay distinct even in dense combat moments, and DTS Headphone 2.0 can push the sense of space even further.
Tri-Mode Connectivity and Battery Life
The G522 offers three pathways to connect: Lightspeed wireless, Bluetooth 5.3, and USB-C wired. Lightspeed wireless (via USB dongle) delivers ultra-low latency ideal for PC gaming and PS5 use. Bluetooth adds versatility for music, calls, and media on phones or tablets, though you can’t game over Lightspeed and take a Bluetooth call simultaneously. USB-C wired mode eliminates battery anxiety and enables ultra-low latency audio while charging the headset simultaneously.
Battery life is strong and situational. Logitech quotes up to 90 hours of playback with RGB off under Lightspeed, or about 40 hours with lighting enabled. Bluetooth performance tracks similarly to Lightspeed, with some variance based on volume. In real-world use, a week of mixed activity is easily attainable between charges.
Software and Customization: Unlocking the G522’s Potential
G Hub is essential for the G522 experience. It unlocks the EQ, DTS spatial audio, mic filters, and RGB controls, and also provides access to firmware updates. You can choose from built-in presets, create your own, or import others’ profiles from the community. The mic filters—such as FM and AM—are quirky but useful options. The eight-zone RGB lighting adds desk flair for streamers, though it’s largely a cosmetic feature since you won’t see it while wearing the headset.
Final Verdict: A Solid All-Rounder for a Wide Audience
The Logitech G522 Lightspeed is a comfortable, versatile headset that excels with long sessions and mixed media use. It delivers strong battery life, reliable wireless performance, and solid mic quality for its price range. The detachable boom mic and more modest build finish are trade-offs to consider, but neither undermines the essential strengths: comfort, tunable sound, and game-chatter clarity across a broad spectrum of content. At $299, the G522 sits in a competitive market segment—strong value for players who want a multi-use headset that can handle gaming, calls, and media without fuss. If you prize comfort, battery life, and flexibility in a single package, the G522 Lightspeed is a compelling choice that should serve you well for years.
DRN thanks Logitech for providing the G522 for review.
