Microsoft LiveChat ZX-6000

MS's headset gets the T3 treatment

On paper, the ZX-6000 is the best headset ever. Something went wrong between paper and real life, however.

Microsoft have a long history of hit-and-miss peripherals. The Xbox controllers, for example, are nothing short of amazing. On the whole, Microsoft mice are very good, and their keyboards are like a tree of ripe peaches: Sweet and reliable.

The big question, then, is how in the world they can get it so wrong with the ZX-6000. The idea is brilliant: create a lightweight, rechargeable head unit that works much like the headsets we're used to from the mobile phone world. In fact, there are a lot of really good bluetooth headsets out there, and that makes it all the sadder that the ZX-6000 isn't up to the job.

For £30, and with the big-brand Microsoft label of approval, we'd have expected something that is as good - or perhaps better - as a £30 mobile hands-free kit.

In short, Sound quality is passable, but not great, and while the ZX-6000 looks very good, isn't very comfortable to wear. In addition, the dongle that connects the ZX-6000 to your computer is connected with a long cable - what's wrong with the thumbdrive-sized sticks that everybody else uses?

The software is easy to install and use, but the hardware itself means it's a moot point - your money is better spent elsewhere. Back to the drawing board, Microsoft - you can do better than this!