EKSA GT1 Cobra True Wireless Gaming Earbuds Review

EKSA are best known for their affordable over the head gaming headsets. In particular, they have a range of 5.8Ghz wireless headsets that offer ultra-low latency performance.

They are now trying to take that template and apply it to the popular true wireless earbuds market.

The EKSA GT1 Cobra are an affordable pair of gaming earbuds that come with a gamer aesthetic, including LED illumination, and also claim to have an ultra-low latency of just 38ms.

Specification

• Sensitivity: 101dB
• Wireless Type: Bluetooth
• Latency: 38MS Ultra-low Latency
• Impedance Range: up to 32 Ω
• Earcups Type: Semi-open
• Bluetooth Version: 5.0
• Driver Diameter: 10mm
• Resistance: 32Ω
• Frequency Response Range: 20 – 20000Hz
• Total Harmonic Distortion: 10%
• With Microphone: Yes
• Feature: Splash-proof IPX4
• Battery: 36H Play Time with Charging Case (6+30)
• Charging Method: Wired

Design / Fit

The EKSA GT1 Cobra adopt quite a different aesthetic from most earbuds. There is a large case in a sort of triangular shape, which then includes blue LEDs running down the side, which EKSA describe as a cobra design.

They can sound a little sharp in some tracks, but I am quite sensitive to higher-pitched frequencies. They don’t sound bad, though, especially when you factor in the price.

I found the volume of these is somewhat limited. I normally listen to most earbuds at around 60-70%. These sit closer to 80-90%. I can dial these up to max volume, while a little too loud to be used for a prolonged period of time it is possible, whereas many other earbuds I’d have to pull out instantly.

The basic design of the earbuds is standard, using a stem style design, but down the stem, you have some angular design blemishes, the EKSA logo then the two cobra LEDs towards the top.

Sound Quality / Gaming / Latency

The earbuds sound OK, these offer quite a flat sound, with quite subdued bass compared to many consumer orientated earbuds. Mids are clear, and highs come through quite brightly

The earbuds have a gaming and music mode. To switch into gaming mode, you need to double-tap one of the earbuds.

These earbuds use Bluetooth 5.0 with the SBC and AAC codecs. SBC and AAC typically have around a 200ms latency, while aptX Low Latency is rated at between 30-40ms. Therefore I am not entirely sure 38ms how it is possible that these can have 38ms latency.

Testing the latency is a little hard, I struggle to notice a huge difference normally anyway but using various audio sync test videos, there does seem to be some difference in latency between these and the Klipsch T5 II True Wireless Sport Earbuds. My best guess would be that these still have at least 100ms latency.

I can’t say I can tell a great difference in either the quality or latency with gaming mode and music mode.

Battery

These are rated for 6 hours of playtime, with an additional 30 hours from the case. I would say over 4 hours is easily doable.

Price and Alternative Options

The EKSA GT1 Cobra have an RRP of $79.99, but you can buy them for $49.99 direct from EKSA, which works out at around £36.50.

HOTWAV Gaming Earbuds also claim to be gaming earbuds with a bright yellow colour scheme and a latency the same as these. They lack silicon eartips, adopting an AirPod style fit, I don’t particularly like this design, but others do. You can buy them for £29.99 from Amazon.

While they may not have the gaming aesthetic, you would get better low latency performance with headphones that support aptX LL or adaptive. Not many are available for under £50

SoundPEATS Sonic has aptX adaptive equipped earbuds for around £40, available from Amazon.

Overall

The EKSA GT1 Cobra are good for the price, but you get what you pay for.

Sound quality is OK, the bass is quite subdued, giving an overall neutral feel to the sound, this is arguably better for gaming, allowing you to make out ambient noises, but it sounded a bit flat for my liking when listening to music.

I am highly sceptical of the 38ms latency claims, I just can’t see how it is possible using the SBC codec. I will admit that there seems to be a tiny difference between the other SBC earphones I have used, but it isn’t easy to objectively test.

Overall, considering these are under £40 it is hard to criticise them too much, and they look good if you are into the gamer aesthetic.

James Smythe( Editor-in-chief )

I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.

As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.

In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.

I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.