Audeze Maxwell USB Dongle Review: Does It Improve Connectivity?

The Audeze Maxwell Wireless Gaming Headset has earned a reputation for its planar magnetic drivers and immersive sound. But for many gamers, the real question is about its wireless connectivity. The included USB dongle is a key part of that experience, promising low-latency, reliable audio across multiple platforms. In this review, we'll put the Maxwell USB dongle to the test, examining its build, performance, and whether it truly enhances your gaming setup.

We'll cover everything from setup and compatibility to latency and range, so you can decide if the dongle lives up to the hype. Whether you're a PC gamer, console player, or someone who switches between devices, this review will help you understand what the Maxwell dongle brings to the table.

Unboxing and Design: What's in the Box?

The Audeze Maxwell comes with a USB dongle that is compact and sturdy. It's a small, rectangular device with a USB-A connector, though it also includes a USB-C adapter for modern laptops and consoles. The dongle has a matte black finish with a subtle Audeze logo, blending in with most setups. The build quality feels premium, with a solid weight that suggests it can withstand daily use.

In the box, you'll find the dongle, a USB-C to USB-A adapter, and a short extension cable. The extension cable is a nice touch, allowing you to position the dongle closer to your headset for better signal strength. The dongle is plug-and-play on most devices, with no drivers needed for basic functionality. For advanced features, you'll need to download the Audeze HQ software, which we'll discuss later.

• Compact and durable design
• Includes USB-C adapter and extension cable
• Plug-and-play on PC, PS5, and Switch

Connectivity: Does It Improve Wireless Stability?

The primary purpose of the Maxwell USB dongle is to provide a stable, low-latency wireless connection. In our testing, the dongle delivered a rock-solid connection with no dropouts or audio stuttering, even in environments with many competing wireless signals. The dongle uses a 2.4GHz connection, which is standard for gaming headsets, but Audeze has implemented a proprietary protocol that ensures high quality audio transmission.

Compared to Bluetooth, the dongle offers significantly lower latency and better audio quality. Bluetooth can introduce noticeable delay, especially in fast-paced games, but the dongle's connection is nearly instantaneous. This makes it ideal for competitive gaming where every millisecond counts. The dongle also supports simultaneous audio and chat on consoles, a feature that is often problematic with Bluetooth.

• Stable 2.4GHz connection with no dropouts
• Low latency for competitive gaming
• Supports simultaneous game and chat audio on consoles

Latency: How Does It Perform in Gaming?

Latency is a critical factor for any wireless gaming headset, and the Maxwell dongle excels in this area. In our tests, we measured the audio delay to be under 20ms, which is imperceptible to most users. This is a significant improvement over Bluetooth, which typically has latency between 100-200ms. For games like first-person shooters or rhythm games, this low latency is essential for staying in sync with the action.

We also tested the dongle with the Maxwell 2 Wireless Gaming Headset, and the performance was equally impressive. The dongle's low latency ensures that audio cues are delivered in real-time, giving you a competitive edge. Whether you're playing on PC, PS5, or Switch, the dongle provides a consistent, lag-free experience that enhances your gaming immersion.

• Under 20ms latency in testing
• Imperceptible delay for most gamers
• Consistent performance across PC, PS5, and Switch

PC Gaming: Maximizing the Dongle's Potential

For PC gamers, the Maxwell dongle opens up a world of possibilities. With the Audeze HQ software, you can customize the EQ settings, adjust the sidetone, and even update the dongle's firmware. The software is intuitive and allows you to fine-tune the audio to your preferences. The dongle also supports high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/96kHz, ensuring that you get the best possible sound quality from your games and music.

One of the standout features is the ability to use the dongle with the Audeze Maxwell T-Shirt - Navy? No, that's not relevant. But what is relevant is that the dongle works seamlessly with the Maxwell and Maxwell 2, providing a plug-and-play experience. If you're using the Maxwell Ear Pads, you'll appreciate the comfort during long gaming sessions, but the dongle is what ensures your audio stays uninterrupted.

• Audeze HQ software for EQ and firmware updates
• Supports 24-bit/96kHz audio
• Seamless integration with Maxwell and Maxwell 2

Compatibility: Beyond PC and Console

The Maxwell dongle is not just for PC and consoles; it also works with mobile devices and the Nintendo Switch. The USB-C adapter makes it easy to connect to smartphones and tablets, though you'll need an OTG cable for some devices. On the Switch, the dongle provides a stable connection in both handheld and docked modes, making it a versatile option for gamers on the go.

While the dongle is primarily designed for the Maxwell series, it can also be used with other Audeze headphones that support wireless, such as the LCD-1 Headphones. However, for the best experience, we recommend using it with the Maxwell or Maxwell 2, as they are optimized for this dongle. The dongle's compatibility with multiple platforms makes it a valuable accessory for any gamer.

• Works with mobile devices via USB-C adapter
• Compatible with Nintendo Switch in all modes
• Can be used with other Audeze wireless headphones

In conclusion, the Audeze Maxwell USB dongle is a well-engineered accessory that significantly improves the wireless experience. Its low latency, stable connection, and broad compatibility make it an essential component for any Maxwell owner. If you're looking to get the most out of your Maxwell Wireless Gaming Headset, the dongle is a must-have. We highly recommend it for PC and console gamers alike.