I'm Not Convinced Open Earbuds Work for Gaming, Despite Asus' Best Efforts

Why It Matters

If open‑ear earbuds can deliver low‑latency gaming sound without sacrificing situational awareness, they could reshape portable gaming audio. However, usability issues and unclear demand may limit adoption.

Key Takeaways

• Asus ROG Cetra Open uses 2.4 GHz low‑latency link
• Open design sacrifices noise isolation for situational awareness
• Large charging case reduces portability versus typical earbuds
• Audio level issue encountered on PS5 Pro connection
• Market demand for gaming open earbuds remains unclear

Pulse Analysis

Open earbuds have surged in popularity as consumers seek audio that keeps them aware of their surroundings, a trend that extends beyond music and podcasts into the gaming arena. Traditional gaming headsets prioritize sealed sound chambers to block external noise, delivering immersive, directional cues essential for competitive play. Asus’s ROG Cetra Open attempts to bridge these worlds by offering an open‑ear form factor paired with a proprietary 2.4 GHz wireless protocol that promises sub‑10 ms latency, a critical benchmark for fast‑paced titles. This hybrid approach reflects a broader industry experiment: can manufacturers combine the safety and comfort of open designs with the performance standards gamers demand?

The real‑world testing highlighted both strengths and shortcomings. The earbuds’ ergonomic tubes sit behind the ears, reducing ear fatigue during long sessions, and the dual‑mode connectivity lets users switch between low‑latency gaming and standard Bluetooth for media consumption. Yet the oversized charging case undermines the portability advantage that earbuds usually provide, and the reviewer experienced muted audio levels on the PS5 Pro, suggesting firmware or driver inconsistencies across platforms. Such friction points are significant because gamers expect plug‑and‑play reliability; any perceived audio deficit can quickly erode confidence in a new form factor.

Looking ahead, the market for open‑ear gaming audio remains ambiguous. While some casual players might appreciate the ability to stay aware of ambient sounds—useful for multiplayer communication or safety during outdoor play—hardcore gamers often favor full‑seal headsets for precise sound staging. Asus’s gamble could inspire competitors to refine open‑ear solutions, perhaps by shrinking cases or improving console integration. Until those refinements materialize, the ROG Cetra Open serves more as a proof‑of‑concept than a mainstream replacement for traditional gaming headsets.