Astro A50 Gen 4 vs Gen 5: Key Differences
The Astro A50 Gen 4 and Gen 5 are both premium wireless gaming headsets, but the Gen 5 brings a major upgrade in connectivity (low-latency 2.4GHz plus Bluetooth), a USB-C port, and improved microphone clarity, while the Gen 4 is the older model with a micro-USB port and no simultaneous Bluetooth. You should choose the Gen 5 if you want modern convenience and better cross-platform flexibility, or the Gen 4 if you find it at a steep discount and only need basic console/PC audio.
Background: The A50 Lineage
Astro’s A50 series has been a staple of console and PC gaming since the early 2010s, known for its comfortable over-ear design, mixamp base station, and Dolby Audio support. The Gen 4 launched in 2019 as an incremental update over the Gen 3, adding a USB-C port for charging (though the base station still used micro-USB for data) and a slightly revised base station design. The Gen 5 was released in 2023, representing the first major redesign in years, with a new charging base, USB-C everywhere, and a dual wireless system that lets you mix game audio and phone calls simultaneously.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Wireless: Gen 4 uses only 2.4GHz (via the base station); Gen 5 adds Bluetooth 5.3 for simultaneous audio.
- Charging port: Gen 4 has micro-USB on the headset (with a USB-C on the base for power); Gen 5 uses USB-C on both headset and base.
- Base station: Gen 5’s base is smaller, has a USB-C data port, and supports a wired mode for low-latency play on PC.
- Battery life: Gen 4 claims up to 15 hours; Gen 5 claims up to 24 hours (with Bluetooth off).
- Microphone: Gen 5 has a higher-quality mic with better noise rejection.
- Software: Gen 4 uses Astro Command Center (desktop); Gen 5 uses the Logitech G Hub (since Astro is a Logitech brand).
How the Wireless System Works
Both headsets use a 2.4GHz wireless connection to a base station that plugs into your console or PC. The Gen 4 base acts as a USB audio device, sending game audio and chat to the headset. The Gen 5 adds a second wireless radio: Bluetooth. You can connect your phone or tablet via Bluetooth while keeping the 2.4GHz connection to your console, allowing you to hear game sound and take a call at the same time. The Gen 5 also supports a wired mode over USB-C, which bypasses the wireless entirely for zero-latency audio on PC.
Comfort and Build Quality
Both headsets share the same overall shape: a sturdy plastic frame, plush memory foam ear cushions, and a padded headband. The Gen 5 is slightly lighter (around 380g vs 370g, though exact weights vary by region) and has a more flexible headband. The ear cushions are similar, but the Gen 5 uses a breathable fabric that some users find cooler for long sessions. The microphone is detachable on both, but the Gen 5’s mic is slightly shorter and has a better pop filter.
Software and Customization
Gen 4 uses the Astro Command Center, a standalone app for Windows and Mac that lets you adjust EQ presets, mix game/chat balance, and update firmware. Gen 5 moves to Logitech G Hub, which is more modern and also handles other Logitech devices. G Hub offers a similar EQ interface but adds a “Blue Voiceâ€� microphone equalizer for the Gen 5’s mic. Note that G Hub is Windows/macOS only; there is no mobile app for either headset.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
- Gen 4 battery drain: Some Gen 4 units have a known issue where the headset doesn’t fully power off when placed on the base, draining the battery. Ensure the base station is powered on and the headset clicks into place.
- Gen 5 Bluetooth pairing issues: If Bluetooth doesn’t connect, try resetting the headset by holding the power button for 10 seconds, then re-pairing.
- Microphone not working on PC: For Gen 4, make sure the base station is set to “PC� mode (switch on the back). For Gen 5, check that the mic is not muted (the mute button is on the right ear cup) and that Windows has selected the correct input device.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Gen 5 if you:
- Want to mix game audio with phone calls or music from your phone.
- Prefer USB-C charging and a more modern base station.
- Play on both console and PC and want a simple wired mode for PC.
- Value a better microphone for streaming or voice chat.
Choose the Gen 4 if you:
- Find it at a significant discount (often under $200).
- Only need wireless audio on one console (PS4/PS5 or Xbox) and don’t need Bluetooth.
- Are okay with the older software and micro-USB charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Gen 5 worth the extra cost?
If you regularly use voice chat on your phone or want to listen to music while gaming, yes—the Bluetooth mixing is a game-changer. For pure console gaming, the Gen 4 still sounds excellent, but the Gen 5’s better mic and USB-C may justify the price for many.
Can I use the Gen 4 base station with the Gen 5 headset?
No. The Gen 5 headset uses a different wireless protocol and base station. They are not cross-compatible. You must use the matching base for each headset.
Do both headsets work with PS5 and Xbox Series X?
Yes, but you need the correct version. Astro sells separate models for PlayStation (white) and Xbox (black). The Xbox version also works on PC. The PS version works on PC but not Xbox. Neither supports simultaneous Bluetooth on the Gen 4; the Gen 5 does on both versions.
Why is my Gen 4 not charging?
Check that the base station is plugged into a power source (not just a console USB port that may not provide power) and that the headset’s metal contacts are clean. Also, make sure the headset is fully seated in the base.
Can I use the Gen 5 wired on console?
Yes, you can plug the USB-C cable into the headset and the console, but you’ll lose the base station’s game/chat balance controls. The wired mode is primarily intended for PC.
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