Buying guide for BEST STEELSERIES HEADSETS
When you're deep into gaming, the right headset can make the difference between merely playing and being fully immersed in your game world. With so many options, choosing the best gaming headset can be a daunting task. SteelSeries is a renowned brand that designs some of the best gaming headsets in the market, offering unparalleled sound quality, comfort and design.
There are a few things you should consider when selecting a headset. Superior sound quality is a must for detecting every footstep, gunshot or ambient noise in your game. Comfort is key, especially for extended gaming sessions, and a microphone for clear voice chat is essential for team games.
Our top pick, the SteelSeries Arctis Pro + GameDAC, combines professional-grade sound quality with a comfortable design. The Arctis 9X, on the other hand, stands out for its wireless connectivity, making it an excellent option for gamers who value freedom of movement.
SteelSeries – Arctis Pro + GameDAC Wired Gaming Headset
The Arctis Pro + GameDAC is the first full gaming audio system to receive the coveted Hi-Res Audio certification. It comes with a dedicated digital-to-analog converter (DAC) to deliver high-fidelity audio. The headset is comfortable to wear, with an adjustable ski goggle band that evenly distributes weight, minimizing pressure points.
The microphone is ClearCast certified, ensuring studio-quality voice clarity and background noise cancellation. It also features DTS Headphone:X v2.0 for precise surround sound. With its intuitive OLED menu and on-ear ChatMix dial, you can balance game and chat volumes on the fly.
SteelSeries – Arctis 9X Wireless Gaming Headset
Featuring Xbox Wireless connectivity, the Arctis 9X syncs directly to your Xbox just like a wireless controller. It delivers high-quality audio, comfort, and style, with simultaneous Bluetooth audio to mix in music or take calls while gaming.
It also features the ClearCast noise-canceling microphone and award-winning Arctis sound that's engineered to produce ultra-low distortion audio. With a battery life of up to 20 hours, this headset is perfect for extended gaming sessions.
SteelSeries – Arctis 5 RGB Illuminated Gaming Headset with DTS
Offering DTS Headphone:X v2.0 surround sound, the Arctis 5 headset delivers an immersive gaming experience. It features Prism RGB illumination for customizable lighting and dynamic effects.
The ClearCast bidirectional microphone provides clear voice communication while canceling out background noise. The headset has a Ski Goggle Suspension Band that perfectly contours across your head, distributing the weight and eliminating pressure points.
SteelSeries – Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Multi-System Gaming Headset
The Arctis Nova Pro offers high-resolution speaker drivers with DTS Headphone:X v2.0 surround sound for immersive gaming. It is designed to function flawlessly on PC and PlayStation, with a 2.4GHz wireless connection for lossless and ultra-low latency audio.
It has a durable aluminum frame and a comfortable Ski Goggle Headband that can be adjusted for a perfect fit. It also includes a ClearCast microphone for noise cancelation and natural-sounding clarity. With a battery life of up to 20 hours, you won’t have to worry about charging in the middle of a game.
SteelSeries – Arctis 7P+ Wireless Gaming Headset
Designed specifically for PlayStation 5, the Arctis 7P+ Wireless Gaming Headset features a USB-C dongle and a variety of cables for compatibility with other platforms. The headset is also compatible with PlayStation 4, PC, Android and Nintendo Switch.
It delivers a high-quality, immersive gaming sound with a lag-free 2.4GHz wireless connection and has a comfortable, lightweight design with a retractable, noise-canceling microphone. With a battery life of up to 24 hours, you can game all day and night.
Of course, the best SteelSeries headset for you will depend on your specific needs, preferences and budget. From the professional-grade Arctis Pro + GameDAC to the versatile Arctis Nova Pro, SteelSeries offers a range of options that deliver reliable and immersive gaming audio.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY A STEELSERIES HEADSET
Types of Headsets
The three different types of headset categories you'll likely encounter are in-ear, on-ear, and over-ear. Each type has its unique attributes and is suitable for different use cases.
- In-Ear: In-ear headsets, also known as earbuds, are compact and portable, making them excellent for on-the-go gaming or use during travel. They're usually lighter and provide a secure fit, allowing for good passive noise isolation.
- On-Ear: On-ear headsets sit directly on your ears and generally provide better sound quality than in-ear headsets. They're a middle-ground option, balancing size, comfort, and sound performance.
- Over-Ear: Over-ear headsets cover the entire ear and offer the best sound quality and noise isolation, making them ideal for immersive gaming experiences. They're usually the largest and heaviest type, but many gamers prefer them for their superior sound and comfort during long gaming sessions.
Wired vs. Wireless
Like deciding between a carry-on and a traditional suitcase, you'll need to choose between wired and wireless headsets. Both have their pros and cons.
- Wired: Wired headsets offer reliable audio quality and don't suffer from latency issues that can sometimes plague wireless models. They're also typically more affordable. However, the wire can limit your mobility and may get tangled or damaged over time.
- Wireless: Wireless headsets give you freedom of movement, which can be particularly useful for VR gaming or simply when you want to move around while playing. Wireless options are usually more expensive and require regular charging, but the convenience of being wire-free can often outweigh these downsides.
Microphone Considerations
Gaming headsets often include built-in microphones for in-game communication. When looking at mics, consider the following:
- Quality: A good microphone should provide clear, crisp audio. Some microphones also have noise-canceling capabilities to reduce background noise.
- Position: Most gaming headsets have attached microphones. Some are flexible, allowing you to position them as you like, while others are fixed. Some headsets also offer detachable microphones, which can be handy if you want to use the headset for listening to music as well as gaming.
Comfort and Fit
The comfort and fit of a headset are vital, especially if you plan on long gaming sessions. Key factors to consider include:
- Headband: Look for an adjustable headband that can comfortably fit your head size. Some headsets also have padding on the headband for additional comfort.
- Ear Cups: Check the padding and material of the ear cups. Memory foam padding with breathable fabric or leatherette coverings usually offers the most comfort.
- Weight: Lighter headsets cause less strain on your head and neck, making them more comfortable for extended use.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of a headset is one of the most important factors to consider. Look for headsets with high-quality drivers for clear, balanced sound. Some headsets also offer surround sound for a more immersive gaming experience.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A STEELSERIES HEADSET
Compatibility
It’s absolutely essential that your headset needs to be compatible with your gaming system. Check whether the headset is designed for PC, console (such as Xbox, PlayStation) or multi-platform use.
Controls and Features
Some headsets come with on-ear controls for volume and microphone mute, which can be quite handy during gaming sessions. Other features to consider include customizable sound profiles, RGB lighting and software compatibility for additional customization options.
Build Quality
The build quality of a headset is essential for its lifespan. Look for headsets with robust construction, durable materials and a reputation for good quality control.
Price
The price of gaming headsets can vary significantly. Determine your budget before starting your search, and keep in mind that while high-end headsets offer premium features and sound quality, there are also many affordable options that provide excellent performance for their price.
With these considerations in mind, you can choose the right SteelSeries headset that fits your gaming style, comfort preferences and budget.
