ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless Earbuds: ANC, low latency and wireless charging

The ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless are Bluetooth earbuds aimed at gamers. They combine active noise cancelation with a low-latency gaming mode, and they work with PCs, Macs, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch and mobile devices, so one pair can cover several screens.

Low-latency gaming mode

Wireless audio always has some delay, and in games that delay can make sound arrive after the action on screen. ASUS says the Gaming mode offers greater synchronization of audio with video for competitive play. Low-latency modes typically work by trading a little audio processing for speed, and results depend on the device they are connected to, so check what your console or computer supports.

Hybrid active noise cancelation

Active noise cancelation (ANC) uses microphones to pick up sound and then plays an opposing signal to reduce it. ASUS describes this as hybrid ANC, meaning it detects noise coming from both inside and outside the earbuds. In general, ANC is most effective on steady low sounds, such as engine hum or fans, and less so on sudden or high-pitched noises.

Battery life and charging

ASUS lists a 27-hour battery life, with quick-charge technology. That figure typically includes recharges from the case, so a single charge of the earbuds themselves will be shorter. The case can be charged wirelessly on a compatible charging pad, or by cable, and the manual will explain the details.

Controls and water resistance

Touch controls on the earbuds allow quick adjustments in game without reaching for a phone or controller. The listing's title gives IPX4 water resistance, which in general means protection against splashes, such as sweat, but not against submersion. That covers splashes, not swimming.

Fit matters

The listing notes that if the ear tips do not match the size of your ear canals, or the earbuds are not worn properly, you may not get correct sound quality or call performance. In that case, change to tips that fit more snugly. A good seal also improves noise cancelation, so tip size is worth experimenting with.

Size and compatibility

The case and packaging measure about 4.9 x 4.0 x 2.2 inches (roughly 12.5 x 10 x 5.5 cm) and weigh 0.5 lb, according to the listing. The model is listed as ROG Cetra True Wireless in white. ASUS names PCs, Macs, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch and mobile devices as compatible.

Who it suits

It suits gamers who move between a phone, a console and a computer, and who want noise reduction on a commute without carrying separate headsets. It is also a fit for anyone who wants a small case that charges wirelessly.

What to check before you buy

• Your devices: confirm how each one connects over Bluetooth and whether it supports the low-latency mode.
• Fit: try the supplied tip sizes to get a snug seal.
• Wireless charging: you need a compatible pad if you want to use that feature.
• Water resistance: IPX4 is for splashes only.
• Microphone: check call quality needs against the manual's description.

The short version

• True wireless gaming earbuds from ASUS with a Gaming mode for lower latency.
• Hybrid active noise cancelation.
• 27-hour battery life with quick charge; wireless charging case.
• IPX4 water resistance and touch controls.
• Works with PCs, Macs, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch and mobile devices.

Bloiq is reader-supported. Some links may earn us a commission; it never affects what we write. How we make money.