The Fractal Design Scape is a comfortable, versatile wireless gaming headset that offers solid sound quality and multi-platform compatibility. Reviewers praised its plush fabric construction, 320g weight for extended wear, and intuitive web-based setup without software bloat. While it lacks surround sound and cannot lay flat, it's well-suited for PC, Mac, and console gaming. The wireless docking station and control crown add convenience, though it's priced at $199, which some reviewers felt was fair for the quality. It's recommended for gamers seeking a premium, comfortable headset with good audio and no ANC.
Full review
Design and Comfort
The Fractal Design Scape gaming headset delivers a sophisticated aesthetic that stands out in a crowded market. ThinkComputers reviewer Bob Buskirk noted that the headset's design is 'elegant and versatile,' with a 'subtle design language at play that offers an almost understated level of luxury and refinement.' The Scape comes in Light and Dark colorways, both featuring a softer matte finish that avoids oily fingerprints and 'gleaming gamer vibes.' The headset's build quality is solid, combining lightweight plastic, metal trim, and ample fabric cushioning. The earcups and headband use plush fabric that feels good and doesn't get hot like leather would, according to Buskirk. Club386's Damien Mason praised the 'impeccably sounding wireless headset entirely refined straight out the gate,' noting that the 'fabric ear cups and the memory foam band fit a little snug compared to the ski-band models I've become accustomed to, but it's plenty comfortable.' The 320g weight is considered light for a gaming headset, making it suitable for extended use without fatigue. However, the lack of a lay-flat design, as noted by Buskirk, is a missed opportunity for portability.
TechPowerUp's review confirmed that the Scape's design is 'debut done right,' with a refined approach that avoids flashy RGB or overwrought drivers. The headset's clamping force and pad material were deemed 'good' by Club386, though Mason noted that the fit is 'a little snug' and questioned how long fatigue would take to set in. The Scape's magnetic charging cradle is a standout feature, offering both charging and stand functionality, which Club386 praised as 'form and function.' The headset's overall design is described as 'Scandi look' that makes it appealing for those who prefer understated aesthetics over flashy gaming gear. The RGB lighting is barely noticeable, which is a plus for those who want to save battery or avoid being a 'walking lava lamp.' The microphone is detachable and malleable, allowing for versatile positioning, and the built-in omnidirectional microphone is present but with a noticeable quality hit, according to Club386.
Audio Performance
The audio performance of the Fractal Design Scape is widely praised across multiple reviews, with reviewers noting its 'rich sound' and 'impeccably sounding' qualities. Club386's Damien Mason stated that the Scape 'sounds wide, crisp, and deliberate,' with a 'genuinely roomy' soundstage that sets it apart from other closed-back headsets in its price range. Mason noted that the soundstage is 'genuinely roomy,' especially when compared to other closed-back headsets in this price range, and that directional audio feels 'precise, not bloated by artificial reverb.' The Scape's ability to deliver precise directional audio makes it ideal for competitive gaming, as demonstrated in games like Rainbow Six Siege X where enemy footsteps were clearly audible. Headphones.com reviewer Resolve noted that the Scape's sound quality is 'generally well-tuned, though the treble can be a bit exaggerated,' and that it 'aims to deliver on the future that Maxwell seemed to indicate was coming, but at an even lower price.' The headset's parametric EQ allows for extensive customization, which is a significant advantage for users who want to fine-tune their audio experience.
The Scape's audio performance was also highlighted by ThinkComputers' Bob Buskirk, who stated that 'the drivers are tuned quite good' and that 'most people would be satisfied with the sound overall.' He noted that the headset has 'a really full sound, which is not only great for gaming, but also really good for listening to music.' The Scape's ability to deliver a full and balanced sound profile without requiring any adjustments out of the box is a significant selling point. RTINGS.com's review noted that the Scape's sound quality is 'generally well-tuned' and that it 'doesn't work with Xbox Series X|S' due to proprietary Xbox Wireless protocol limitations. However, the lack of active noise cancellation, as noted by Club386, is a disappointment for some users, though Mason acknowledged that 'it makes sense when factoring in the cost' and that 'there are cheaper headsets carrying the feature, like Razer Barracuda Pro, but these tend not to reach the same audio heights.' The Scape's audio performance is considered 'exceptionally well-tuned' by multiple reviewers, with many noting that it delivers a mature and balanced sound profile.
Connectivity and Features
The Fractal Design Scape offers a versatile range of connectivity options, including 2.4GHz wireless with a dedicated dongle, Bluetooth 5.3, and USB connectivity. ThinkComputers' Bob Buskirk noted that the headset 'can be used wirelessly or wired' and that 'you can only put the headset in the docking station one way you won’t place it on there only to come back to your PC ready to game with a dead headset.' The wireless docking station serves as both a charging station and a stand, which is a convenient feature for users who want to keep their headset charged and ready for use. The Scape's 2.4GHz connection is described as 'low-latency gaming' by Headphones.com's Resolve, making it suitable for competitive gaming. The headset also supports Bluetooth 5.3, allowing for wireless connection to smartphones and tablets, though it does not support Xbox Series X|S due to proprietary Xbox Wireless protocol limitations. Club386's Damien Mason noted that the Scape's 'dedicated superwide microphone is as versatile as they come,' being both detachable and malleable enough to bend closer to the user's mouth. The microphone's versatility is further enhanced by its ability to be flipped up to mute or down to resume conversations, and it can be chucked aside when users want to brave the great outdoors.
The Scape's control interface is another standout feature, with a rotating dial on the left earcup that controls volume and doubles as a multi-function button. The right earcup houses buttons for cycling RGB and EQ presets, which offer a level of control that means users don't have to touch software at all if they don't want to. Club386's Damien Mason noted that the controls are 'mostly well thought out' and that 'the left side has a rotating dial that controls volume but doubles as a multi-function button. One press pauses, two skips forward, three goes back.' However, Mason noted that 'the low button travel makes it trickier than your typical in-ear touchpad for simultaneous presses.' The Scape's web-based software is also praised for being 'robust' and 'smart' without requiring any software utility to be downloaded, as noted by HotHardware's Paul Lilly. The Scape's ability to be set up entirely through a web interface is a significant advantage, as it avoids the need for additional software downloads that can bog down systems. The lack of a 3.5mm audio jack on the charging dock is a minor inconvenience, as noted by Club386, though Mason noted that 'SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is the only headset I'm aware of with this functionality, allowing me to transmit low-latency wireless audio via 2.4GHz all while controlling different channels using sliders.'
Battery Life and Power
Battery life is a strong point for the Fractal Design Scape, with ThinkComputers' Bob Buskirk reporting that 'talking about battery life with RGB lighting on you should get around 20 hours, but turn the RGB lighting off and that goes up to 40-50 hours.' The Scape's battery life is further enhanced by its wireless charging dock, which allows for convenient charging without the need for cables. The headset can be fully charged in 5 hours, and a 15-minute charge provides 3 hours of playtime, according to Buskirk. Club386's Damien Mason noted that the Scape 'sits proudly on its 2.4GHz charging cradle, siphoning power without ever plugging it in,' which is a significant convenience for users who want to keep their headset charged without the hassle of cables. The Scape's ability to provide up to 50 hours of battery life with RGB lighting turned off is impressive, especially when compared to other headsets in its price range. HotHardware's Paul Lilly noted that the Scape's 'lighter weight' contributes to its overall comfort and battery efficiency, making it suitable for extended use without frequent recharging. The wireless charging dock's design is also praised for its 'form and function,' as it serves as both a charging station and a stand, which is a significant advantage for users who want to keep their headset charged and ready for use.
The Scape's charging capabilities are further enhanced by its USB-C port, which allows for charging on the go. Club386's Damien Mason noted that 'the USB-C port comes in handy for when you're on the road and need to juice it up, providing a level of redundancy, but I'm truly happy to see a better alternative to the usual headphone stands that's both form and function.' The Scape's charging capabilities are also noted for their convenience, as the wireless charging dock eliminates the need for cables and allows for easy charging without the hassle of plugging in. The Scape's ability to provide up to 50 hours of battery life with RGB lighting turned off is impressive, especially when compared to other headsets in its price range. The 15-minute charge providing 3 hours of playtime is also a significant advantage for users who need quick charging solutions. The Scape's battery life is further enhanced by its ability to be charged wirelessly, which is a significant convenience for users who want to keep their headset charged without the hassle of cables.
Software and Setup
The Fractal Design Scape's setup and software are among its strongest features, with a web-based approach that avoids the need for additional software downloads. HotHardware's Paul Lilly noted that 'Fractal Design also earns points for skipping the temptation to force-feed its own software utility down users' throats,' and that 'instead, Fractal Design leverages a web-based setup scheme that I'll get into here shortly.' The Scape's web-based setup allows users to customize settings and adjust EQ profiles without needing to download any software, which is a significant advantage for users who want to avoid system bloat. Club386's Damien Mason praised the 'robust web-based software' that allows for 'highly customisable EQ' and 'smart design' without requiring any software utility to be downloaded. The Scape's web-based setup is described as 'smart' and 'intuitive,' making it easy for users to customize their audio experience without the need for complex software installations. The Scape's ability to save settings directly to the headset is also noted as a significant advantage, as it eliminates the need for users to remember their settings or reconfigure them every time they use the headset.
The Scape's web-based setup is also praised for its ease of use and convenience. ThinkComputers' Bob Buskirk noted that 'I really like the versatility, but I was a bit disappointed that you can't lay the headset flat,' which is a minor inconvenience but doesn't detract from the overall user experience. The Scape's web-based setup allows for easy customization of EQ profiles and other settings, which is a significant advantage for users who want to fine-tune their audio experience. The Scape's ability to be set up entirely through a web interface is also noted as a significant advantage, as it avoids the need for additional software downloads that can bog down systems. The Scape's web-based setup is described as 'intuitive' and 'user-friendly,' making it easy for users to customize their audio experience without the need for complex software installations. The Scape's ability to save settings directly to the headset is also noted as a significant advantage, as it eliminates the need for users to remember their settings or reconfigure them every time they use the headset.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the Fractal Design Scape does have some notable shortcomings that may deter certain users. The lack of active noise cancellation (ANC) is a significant drawback, as noted by Club386's Damien Mason, who stated that 'there's no active noise cancellation here, which is a touch disappointing since I love transparency modes to regulate my voice of an evening.' While Mason acknowledged that 'it makes sense when factoring in the cost,' the absence of ANC is a missed opportunity for users who want to block out ambient noise during gaming or work sessions. The Scape's inability to work with Xbox Series X|S due to proprietary Xbox Wireless protocol limitations is another major shortcoming, as noted by multiple reviewers including RTINGS.com and Headphones.com. This limitation means that users who primarily game on Xbox consoles will be unable to utilize the Scape's wireless capabilities, which is a significant drawback for console gamers. Additionally, the lack of a 3.5mm audio jack on the charging dock is a minor inconvenience, as noted by Club386, though Mason noted that 'SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is the only headset I'm aware of with this functionality, allowing me to transmit low-latency wireless audio via 2.4GHz all while controlling different channels using sliders.' The Scape's inability to provide this functionality is a missed opportunity for users who need to connect to mixers or other audio equipment.
Another area where the Scape falls short is in its lack of surround sound or virtual surround sound capabilities. ThinkComputers' Bob Buskirk noted that 'Beyond just being comfortable and sounding good this headset comes with the wireless docking station' but also mentioned that 'No surround sound / virtual surround sound' is a drawback. While the Scape's soundstage is described as 'genuinely roomy' and directional audio is 'precise,' the lack of surround sound is a significant limitation for users who want a more immersive audio experience. The Scape's inability to provide surround sound is particularly noticeable in games that heavily utilize spatial audio, where users may miss out on the full audio experience. The Scape's lack of a lay-flat design is also a minor inconvenience, as noted by Buskirk, though this is more of a personal preference than a major flaw. The Scape's overall design is praised for its 'subtle' and 'refined' aesthetic, but the lack of certain features like surround sound and a 3.5mm jack may be a dealbreaker for some users.
Who It's Best For
The Fractal Design Scape is best suited for users who value comfort, versatility, and high-quality audio without the need for active noise cancellation or surround sound. ThinkComputers' Bob Buskirk noted that 'I've had multiple multi-hour gaming sessions with this headset and I did not experience any type of strain from the headset and my ear didn't get too hot either,' making it ideal for extended gaming sessions. The Scape's 'extremely comfortable' design and 'very comfortable' fit are major selling points for users who spend long hours gaming or working. Club386's Damien Mason noted that 'I wouldnt think about switching back to anything else, relishing everything from the Scandi look to microphone and magnetically charged cradle,' indicating that the Scape is well-suited for users who appreciate a premium, well-designed product. The Scape's multi-platform compatibility, including support for PC, Mac, PlayStation, and mobile devices, makes it a versatile choice for users who switch between different platforms. The Scape's web-based setup and customization options are also ideal for users who want to fine-tune their audio experience without the need for additional software downloads.
The Scape is particularly well-suited for PC and console gamers who want a high-quality, comfortable headset with excellent sound and wireless connectivity. The headset's ability to work with 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth 5.3 makes it a versatile choice for users who want to connect to multiple devices. The Scape's 'genuinely roomy' soundstage and 'precise' directional audio make it ideal for competitive gaming, where audio cues are crucial. However, users who primarily game on Xbox Series X|S will find the Scape's lack of Xbox Wireless support to be a significant limitation. The Scape is also ideal for users who want a headset that can be easily charged wirelessly and doesn't require cables, thanks to its magnetic charging cradle. The Scape's 'subtle' and 'refined' design makes it a good choice for users who prefer understated aesthetics over flashy gaming gear. The Scape's ability to provide up to 50 hours of battery life with RGB lighting turned off is also a significant advantage for users who want a long-lasting headset.
Value at This Price
The Fractal Design Scape's $199 price point is considered fair by multiple reviewers, with ThinkComputers' Bob Buskirk stating that 'I really hope this is the way forward for more brands' and that 'I think for the quality and what you are getting here is a fair price.' The Scape's combination of comfort, sound quality, and versatility justifies its price point, especially when compared to other headsets in its category. Club386's Damien Mason noted that 'this is a premium wireless gaming headset with rich sound, smart design, and gorgeous Scandinavian aesthetic that makes me wish for more like it,' indicating that the Scape offers excellent value for its price. The Scape's ability to provide up to 50 hours of battery life with RGB lighting turned off is also a significant advantage, as it reduces the need for frequent charging and enhances user convenience. The Scape's web-based setup and customization options are also noted as a significant value-add, as they eliminate the need for additional software downloads that can bog down systems. The Scape's lack of active noise cancellation is a drawback, but the overall package is considered to be a strong value proposition, especially when compared to other headsets in its price range.
HotHardware's Paul Lilly noted that 'Fractal Design's first foray into audio is a winning combination of comfort, multi-platform versatility, and elegant design, marred only by a somewhat tame maximum output level and lack of ANC.' While the Scape's output level may not be the highest in its class, the overall package is considered to be a strong value proposition. The Scape's ability to deliver 'excellent sound' and 'multi-platform support' makes it a compelling choice for users who want a high-quality headset without the need for additional software or complex setup. The Scape's 'sleek design' and 'very comfortable' fit are also noted as significant advantages, making it a good choice for users who want a premium product that doesn't compromise on comfort or sound quality. The Scape's 'versatile' nature, including its support for 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.3, and USB connectivity, makes it a good choice for users who want a headset that can be used across multiple platforms and devices.
Strengths
- +Very comfortable with plush fabric that doesn't get hot
- +Tuned sound quality out of the box without adjustments needed
- +Wireless docking station with wireless charging and 2.4 GHz dongle storage
- +Control crown is easier to use than buttons or dials on other headsets
Watch-outs
- −No surround sound or virtual surround sound capabilities
- −Cannot be laid flat for storage or travel
How it compares
The Fractal Scape offers superior comfort and a unique control crown compared to the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro, which has a more traditional design and lacks the plush fabric construction. Unlike the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro, it doesn't offer active noise cancellation, but it provides a more intuitive setup experience without software bloat.
Who this is for
At a glance: comfort-focused gamers seeking wireless convenience.
Why you’d buy the Fractal Scape
- Very comfortable with plush fabric that doesn't get hot.
- Tuned sound quality out of the box without adjustments needed.
- Wireless docking station with wireless charging and 2.4 GHz dongle storage.
Why you’d skip it
- No surround sound or virtual surround sound capabilities.
- Cannot be laid flat for storage or travel.
Rating sources
“I’ve been using the Fractal Design Scape for the past couple of weeks and I have really enjoyed it.”
“Fractal Design's first foray into audio is a winning combination of comfort, multi-platform versatiliy, and elegant design, marred only by a somewhat tame maxiumum output level and lack of ANC.”
“Scape A gaming headset crafted to deliver a rich, immersive, and intuitive wireless audio and communication experience which integrates seamlessly into your gaming environment.”
Our 4.4 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
