SteelSeries has been delivering well-crafted and great performing headsets for years, regularly showing up on our list of the best gaming headsets, so when we heard about a new update to the Arctis line we were excited.
It turns out that excitement was well warranted. With a list of features that include brand new custom drivers, ANC,
multi-system connection, and hot-swappable batteries, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless (available at Amazon for $349.99) is one of the best headsets so far this year.
It’s incredibly comfortable and sounds excellent—the perfect combination for endless gaming enjoyment.
Compared to its competitors, the Nova Pro is on the pricey side (our beloved Audeze Penrose X are $50 cheaper), but the extra cost is met with extra value. They aren’t as flashy as some competitors, but that also means they don’t look out of place if you take them out of your living room and into the world.
In addition to the PS5/PC wireless version we reviewed, there’s one certified for the Xbox (also $350), and wired versions (both Xbox-specific and not) for $250.
The PS5 version does not work with an Xbox since it lacks the necessary Microsoft security chip.
The headset’s layout is uncluttered, which makes finding the proper buttons easy. A smattering of controls are on the left ear cup—including power, mic mute, and a volume wheel—and only a Bluetooth button is on the right.
A base station is included that has an OLED display screen and control knob for navigating the menus. On the back are two USB-C connections—to connect with a PS5, PS4, PC, or Switch—a 3.5mm line out, and a 3.5mm line in.
A charging slot on the right side houses the second (included) battery and keeps it charged and ready. The wired version’s base station isn’t as deep and tilts back so the OLED screen faces up at a 45 degree angle.
Our Arctis Nova Pro Wireless test sample for the PS5 was provided by SteelSeries for the duration of the review. The company also sent along a wired version for comparison.