SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Review
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Mid-range gaming headset excellence.
“Review Unit Provided By SteelSeries”
SteelSeries, a name synonymous with high-quality gaming gear, continues to impress with its Arctis Nova lineup, known for blending premium features with user-friendly designs. While the top-tier models like the Nova Pro Wireless carry a steep price, the Arctis Nova 5 emerges as a cost-effective alternative that doesn't cut corners on functionality. This model boasts hallmark features such as high-fidelity audio drivers, a fully retractable microphone, and compatibility with the Sonar Audio Software Suite. Available in three variations—the standard multiplatform model, and the platform-specific 5P for PlayStation or 5X for Xbox—the Arctis Nova 5 ensures versatility. A USB-C dongle facilitates a stable, low-latency connection, vital for seamless gaming experiences.
My in-depth exploration of these reasonably priced headphones aimed to assess whether they uphold the SteelSeries promise of quality or if the more accessible price point comes with drawbacks. One of the standout innovations in the Arctis Nova 5 is the introduction of a mobile companion app, a first for the company. This app revolutionizes user interaction by offering on-the-fly equalizer adjustments. With over 100 game-specific audio presets available at launch, each fine-tuned in collaboration with game developers and esports professionals, the app is a significant boon, particularly for console gamers who might otherwise need to toggle settings on a PC. This mobile convenience allows gamers to switch presets effortlessly, even mid-game, enhancing the gaming experience without interrupting the flow.
Design-wise, the Arctis Nova 5 shuns flashy embellishments in favor of a minimalist, all-black aesthetic that focuses on functionality. The headset features a sleek, matte ABS plastic finish and black foam ear cushions that prioritize comfort. Style elements are subtle, with the SteelSeries logo in metallic finish adorning each ear cup, while the headband sports a retro-inspired pattern with blue swirls against a black background. This design not only looks good but feels lightweight, akin to wearing a cloud, making it one of the most comfortable headsets I've tested. Its weight, a mere 1.61 lbs, and the dual-hinge design allow for easy adjustment and storage, enhancing its appeal for gamers on the go.
The headset's audio capabilities are anchored by its ClearCast microphone, known for its clarity and discreet integration into the left ear cup. The microphone extends and retracts smoothly, ensuring it's there when you need it and hidden when you don't. The package is comprehensive, including a USB-C wireless dongle for 2.4 GHz connection, a USB-C to USB-A adapter cable, a charging cable, and even a set of branded stickers. A small zippered pouch is also provided, perfect for keeping the dongle and other small accessories secure.
Connecting the headset to a PlayStation 5 is straightforward, thanks to user-centric design features. A simple button press switches the device between 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth modes. The dongle fits snugly into the PS5's type-C port, allowing the console to quickly recognize the headset and establish a stable connection.
The Arctis Nova 5 excels not only in its design and basic functionality but also through its integration with the Nova 5 Mobile App. This application extends the headset’s utility by displaying current connection types and battery levels, and it shines with its array of audio presets. From immersive RPGs like Baldur’s Gate 3 to intense fighting games like Tekken 8 or Street Fighter 6, the presets enhance every sonic detail. Testing the Call of Duty Modern Warfare III preset revealed a remarkable improvement in how sound cues were perceived, heightening the overall gaming atmosphere.
Performance-wise, the Arctis Nova 5P may not deliver the ultra-high-end audio of more expensive models, but it impresses with its broad and immersive soundstage. The ability to quickly switch between audio profiles tailored for gaming via the USB-C dongle and more general media via Bluetooth adds a layer of versatility. The inclusion of features typically reserved for higher-priced models, such as simultaneous audio from different sources, albeit in a more limited form, reflects SteelSeries' commitment to quality across all price points.
Ultimately, priced at $129.99, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 strikes an excellent balance between affordability and performance. It offers a streamlined setup process and exceptional comfort, making it a compelling choice for gamers who demand high-quality audio and functional elegance without a premium price tag.
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 gaming headset is a testament to the brand's ability to deliver exceptional performance in a mid-range package. With its lightweight design, easy setup, and the innovative Nova 5 app, it has quickly become an integral part of my gaming setup, significantly raising the bar for what one can expect from a mid-tier gaming headset.
