Introducing the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Review a groundbreaking gaming headset boasting seamless connectivity across various devices and platforms, extended battery longevity, unparalleled comfort, and top-notch sound performance characteristic of Arctis products. If you seek high-resolution audio, adaptability, and gaming comfort, this headset stands out as the ultimate choice, notwithstanding its minor drawbacks.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality
- Detailed audio output
- Extended battery lifespan
- Remarkable versatility with multiple connectivity options
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Suboptimal ANC feature
- Non-intuitive physical controls
(Noise Cancellation, Microphone Included)
Introducing the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless: a potential game-changer in the realm of gaming peripherals. This dual-purpose, multi-connectivity hybrid offers an immersive gaming experience, boasting detailed sound, expansive soundstage, enduring battery life, and exceptional comfort.
While biased toward the Arctis line’s renowned audio quality, it’s undeniable that SteelSeries has executed an ambitious feat with this wireless headset. However, minor design tweaks are warranted, such as the inconsistent functionality of the secondary button on its base station and the somewhat perplexing physical controls on the headset.
Nevertheless, these issues pale in comparison to the overall excellence of this all-inclusive gaming headset. Although similar concepts have been explored before, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless elevates the experience by incorporating high-resolution audio akin to the Audeze Penrose and noise-canceling headphone features.
In essence, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless stands as the epitome of a versatile gaming headset. It’s difficult to imagine desiring anything more.
Price and Availability of SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
- Cost: $349 (£329, AU$649)
- Availability: Currently available
- Purchase Locations: US, UK, Australia
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless comes at a premium price of $349 (£329, AU$649). Additionally, customization with the Nova Booster Pack, available in Cherry Red, Lilac, Mint, and Rose Quartz, requires an extra $34 / £29.
This pricing aligns with flagship SteelSeries gaming headsets and is competitive within the market. Despite the initial investment, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless offers significant value.
In comparison, the Astro A50, priced at $299 (£349, AU$489), lacks Bluetooth connectivity and a wider frequency range compared to the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless. Similarly, the Audeze Penrose, priced at $299 (£299, AU$399), lacks multi-device connectivity, comfort features, and active noise cancellation found in the SteelSeries headset.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless: Design Overview
- An elegant design blending gaming headset with headphone aesthetics
- Exceptional multi-platform and multi-device connectivity
- Versatile and comfortable, suitable for various head shapes
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless showcases a sleek design, offering luxurious comfort and seamless connectivity across platforms. Despite minor issues with controls and breathability of ear foams, it stands out as one of the best-designed headphones we’ve tested.
Weighing in at a relatively light 337g, it features plush leatherette ear cushions, a thinly padded floating ski headband, and swiveling ear cups for enhanced comfort and fit. The design aims for a more refined and universal aesthetic, making it suitable for both gaming and public use.
Notably, the mic boom seamlessly tucks away into the left ear cup, adding to its versatility and aesthetic appeal. While similar hybrid designs exist, SteelSeries executes it exceptionally well, ensuring the headset looks as impressive as it performs.
The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless comes equipped with two swappable Fuji lithium-ion batteries, each providing 22 hours of battery life. Charging is convenient, with one battery charging in the base station while the other charges within the headset via a USB-C port behind the left ear cup’s magnetic plate, offering fast charging capabilities.
However, the controls pose a challenge, being non-intuitive and confusing, requiring memorization and reference to the manual. Despite this drawback, the headset’s multi-platform and multi-device capabilities, facilitated by the base station and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, make it incredibly versatile in the market.
With the ability to connect wirelessly to two sources simultaneously and the option for standalone use with Bluetooth or a 3.5mm wired connection, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless transcends traditional gaming headsets, doubling as premium headphones suitable for various activities, from hiking to commuting.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless: Performance Review
- High-resolution audio spanning 10Hz to 40KHz frequency range
- Exceptional, detailed sound output
- ANC performance falls short of expectations
With its impressive frequency range of 10Hz to 40KHz, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless offers heightened sub-bass and high-resolution audio capabilities.
The sound quality is exceptional, delivering deep, rumbling bass even at lower volume levels, along with finely detailed treble and well-defined mids. Whether immersed in gaming with titles like Sable, enjoying music like Florence and the Machine’s “Dance Fever,” or watching films such as “Prey,” the headset excels.
While some gaming headsets may offer a wider soundstage, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless still provides a satisfying auditory experience. Additionally, its 360° Spatial Audio feature ensures precise sound imaging, enhancing immersion during gameplay or movie viewing.
The retractable mic maintains clarity and crispness, ensuring clear communication whether chatting on Discord or making phone calls. However, noise rejection is limited to Windows 10/11, with background noise potentially affecting call quality.
Unfortunately, the ANC feature falls short, effectively reducing distant noises like traffic or ambient room sounds but struggling to block out all noise, making it less ideal for airplane use. Nonetheless, the headset’s superior audio quality compensates for this limitation in most scenarios.
Should You Purchase the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless?
Consider buying if:
- You prioritize high-resolution audio quality in your gaming headset, appreciating rich bass and detailed treble.
- You seek a versatile gaming headset with multi-device connectivity, multi-platform support, and Bluetooth capability, eliminating the need for separate headphones.
Opt for it if you value comfort:
- Lightweight design, soft ear cushions, and secure grip ensure comfort during extended gaming sessions.
Think twice if:
- Budget constraints are a concern, as this headset comes with a premium price tag.
- Exceptional ANC is a priority, as the performance of this feature may not meet expectations, despite effectively reducing some environmental noise.