Best SteelSeries Headsets in 2026: 10 Picks Compared on Specs
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is our top pick among the 10 SteelSeries headsets in this comparison: it is the only Nova Pro listing whose name includes Wireless, and the seller states a wireless connection. This guide covers every headset in the current pool, organizing them by connection type, platform support, and stated audio features. Prices on the page are live and read from the listing, and no unit was tested by this site.
10 picks from 26 headsets that match this guide with a price we can quote today. All prices are live and show when they were read.
Our picks in brief
Find your match
- For PlayStation players who want a wired starter headset: The Arctis Nova 1P Multi states PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch support with a wired connection and 360° spatial audio, so you can move between consoles without looking for a wireless battery solution. See pick 7
- For wireless multi-platform gaming: The Arctis Nova 5 Wireless is wireless and carries the Multi-System label, making it a sensible starting point if you play on more than one platform and prefer no cable. See pick 2
- For a wired desktop setup with a DAC: The Arctis Pro + GameDAC states a dedicated DAC and amp and PlayStation compatibility, useful for a desk setup centered on hi-res wired audio. See pick 9
- For Xbox-focused wireless buyers: The Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2 is the current Gen 2 model in the 7 series, and its name points to Xbox-style wireless use, although the seller data does not spell out platform support. See pick 3
10 picks, up close
1 Best overall
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Multi-System Gaming Headset
- Use
- Gaming
- Connection
- Wireless
- PlayStation
- Yes
- Nintendo Switch
- Yes
$269.99 (as of 10/24/2026 18:11 PDT - Details)
This is the only Nova Pro listing in the pool whose name includes Wireless, and it sits at the top of the SteelSeries Nova Pro naming line. It is the strongest match for someone who wants the flagship wireless model in the current catalogue while also having a white finish.
Pros
- Wireless connection stated by the seller
- Multi-System is in the listing name
- Nova Pro is the top model name in this pool
- White colorway in this listing
Cons
- Most audio specs beyond connection are not stated by the seller
- No platform compatibility details in the seller's spec field
- No battery life or driver size stated
Good fit if
- Players who want the top wireless Nova Pro model in this SteelSeries lineup
- Buyers who want a white wireless headset
Skip if
- Anyone who needs a wired connection
- Buyers who want full compatibility details confirmed before purchase
Verdict: The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is the flagship wireless pick in this SteelSeries comparison.
2 Best wireless multi-system
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless Multi-System Gaming Headset
- Use
- Gaming
- Connection
- Wireless
- PlayStation
- Yes
- Nintendo Switch
- Yes
- Battery hours
- 60 hours or more
$129.99 (as of 10/24/2026 18:10 PDT - Details)
The listing name says Multi-System, and the connection is wireless, which makes it one of the more flexible wireless options in this pool. It is a step below the Nova Pro Wireless in naming, but it covers the same broad multi-system idea in a black finish.
Pros
- Wireless connection stated by the seller
- Multi-System is in the listing name
- Black colorway in this listing
Cons
- No platform compatibility details are stated by the seller
- No battery life stated
- No driver size or spatial audio spec stated
Good fit if
- Players who want a wireless SteelSeries headset with multi-system naming
- Buyers who prefer a black finish
Skip if
- Players who need confirmed Xbox or PlayStation compatibility
- Buyers who need a wired connection
Verdict: The Arctis Nova 5 Wireless is the flexible wireless multi-system choice in this guide.
3 Best wireless Gen 2
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2 Gaming Headset
- Use
- Gaming
- Connection
- Wireless
- Bluetooth
- Yes
- PlayStation
- Yes
- Xbox
- Yes
- Nintendo Switch
- Yes
$199.99 (as of 10/24/2026 18:10 PDT - Details)
This listing is the Gen 2 version of the Arctis Nova 7X wireless series, so it is the newest generation of that model in the pool. It shares the wireless connection with the Nova 5 and Nova 7P but carries the 7X name and a white finish.
Pros
- Wireless connection stated by the seller
- Gen 2 is stated in the listing name
- White colorway in this listing
Cons
- Platform compatibility is not stated by the seller
- No battery life stated
- No driver size stated
Good fit if
- Players who want the current generation of the 7X wireless naming line
- Wireless buyers who prefer a white headset
Skip if
- Players who need confirmed Xbox compatibility from the seller data
- Buyers who need a wired option
Verdict: The Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2 is the current-generation 7X wireless listing in this SteelSeries guide.
4 Best wireless alternative
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Wireless Multi-Platform Gaming Headset
- Use
- Gaming
- Connection
- Wireless
- Bluetooth
- Yes
- USB
- Yes
- PlayStation
- Yes
- Nintendo Switch
- Yes
- Battery hours
- 30 to 59 hours
$199.99 (as of 10/24/2026 21:08 PDT - Details)
Like the Nova 5, this headset is listed as wireless and Multi-Platform, but it belongs to the 7 series. The pool contains both this white 7P and the white 7X Gen 2; the 7P is the P-named variant in this listing.
Pros
- Wireless connection stated by the seller
- Multi-Platform is in the listing name
- White colorway in this listing
Cons
- Platform compatibility is not stated by the seller
- No battery life stated
- No audio driver or spatial audio details stated
Good fit if
- Players who want a wireless 7-series headset with multi-platform naming
- Buyers who prefer the P variant name in this listing
Skip if
- Players who need specs beyond connection and naming
- Buyers who need a wired headset
Verdict: The Arctis Nova 7P Wireless is the P-named wireless alternative in the 7 series.
5 Best Nova Pro without the wireless label
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Multi-System Gaming Headset
- Use
- Gaming
- PlayStation
- Yes
- Nintendo Switch
- Yes
- Surround sound
- Yes
$219.99 (as of 10/24/2026 21:08 PDT - Details)
This listing carries the Nova Pro name without Wireless in the product title. It is the black counterpart to the Nova Pro Wireless in this pool, but the seller's spec field does not state the connection type, so treat it as an option to verify before purchase.
Pros
- Nova Pro is the top model name in this pool
- Multi-System is in the listing name
- Black colorway in this listing
Cons
- Connection type is not stated by the seller
- No battery life or wireless range is stated
- No platform compatibility details are stated
Good fit if
- Buyers who want a Nova Pro without needing a wireless label
- Players who prefer a black finish
Skip if
- Buyers who need a confirmed wireless or wired connection type
- Players who need battery life information
Verdict: The Arctis Nova Pro Multi-System is the black Nova Pro option in this guide, though its connection type is unconfirmed by the seller.
6 Best wireless entry
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3P Wireless Multi-Platform Gaming Headset
- Use
- Gaming
- Connection
- Wireless
- Bluetooth
- Yes
- PlayStation
- Yes
- Nintendo Switch
- Yes
- Battery hours
- 30 to 59 hours
$89.99 (as of 10/24/2026 18:10 PDT - Details)
The listing name includes Wireless and Multi-Platform, making it a straightforward wireless option in the pool. Its aqua colorway distinguishes it from the other wireless Nova headphones.
Pros
- Wireless connection stated by the seller
- Multi-Platform is in the listing name
- Aqua colorway in this listing
Cons
- No platform compatibility details are stated by the seller
- No battery life is stated
- No audio driver or spatial audio details are stated
Good fit if
- Players who want a wireless SteelSeries headset with a different color option
- Anyone looking for an entry point into the Nova wireless line
Skip if
- Players who need confirmed platform compatibility
- Buyers who require a wired connection
Verdict: The Arctis Nova 3P Wireless is a colorful, entry-level wireless option in this SteelSeries guide.
7 Best wired multi-system
SteelSeries New Arctis Nova 1P Multi-System Gaming wired Headset
- Use
- Gaming
- Connection
- Wired
- Noise cancelling
- Yes
- PlayStation
- Yes
- Xbox
- Yes
- Nintendo Switch
- Yes
- Surround sound
- Yes
$49.99 (as of 10/24/2026 18:11 PDT - Details)
This listing states a wired connection and lists PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch compatibility in the seller's spec field. It also names Hi-Fi drivers, 360° Spatial Audio, and noise-cancelling features.
Pros
- Wired connection stated by the seller
- PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch support in the seller's specs
- 360° Spatial Audio is part of the listing name
- Noise cancelling is listed in the seller's spec field
Cons
- No frequency response or driver size is stated
- No cable length is stated
- No microphone type is stated
Good fit if
- Players who want one wired headset for PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch
- Buyers who value spatial audio and noise-cancelling features
Skip if
- Players who need a wireless connection
- Buyers who need full driver or microphone specifications
Verdict: The New Arctis Nova 1P Multi is the wired multi-system pick for players across PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch.
8 Best wired PS5 starter
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1P PS5 Headphones
- Use
- Gaming
- Noise cancelling
- Yes
- PlayStation
- Yes
- Xbox
- Yes
- Nintendo Switch
- Yes
$57.99 (as of 10/24/2026 21:08 PDT - Details)
The listing name says PS5 Headphones and includes 360° Space Sound, Memory Foam Ear Pads, and Noise Cancelling. The seller's spec field is empty, so features come only from the product title.
Pros
- PS5-focused wording in the listing name
- 360° Space Sound is part of the listing name
- Memory Foam Ear Pads and Noise Cancelling are in the listing name
Cons
- Seller's spec field has no details
- Connection type is not stated by the seller
- No microphone or driver details are stated
Good fit if
- Players who primarily use a PS5 and want a wired-style starter headset
- Buyers who like memory foam ear pads
Skip if
- Players who need confirmed connection type or platform support
- Buyers who need detailed audio specifications
Verdict: The Arctis Nova 1P PS5 Headphones is a PS5-focused wired starter option, though its specifications rely on the listing name.
9 Best wired with dedicated GameDAC
SteelSeries Arctis Pro + GameDAC Wired Gaming Headset
- Use
- Gaming
- Connection
- Wired
- PlayStation
- Yes
$195.00 (as of 10/24/2026 08:47 PDT - Details)
The listing name specifically includes a dedicated DAC and Amp, which is unique in this pool. It also states PlayStation compatibility in the seller's spec field.
Pros
- Dedicated DAC and Amp are stated in the listing name
- PlayStation compatibility is in the seller's spec field
- Certified Hi-Res Audio is part of the listing name
Cons
- No frequency response or driver size is stated
- No cable length is stated
- No microphone details are stated
Good fit if
- Players who want a wired headset with a dedicated DAC and amp
- PlayStation users who prefer wired audio
Skip if
- Players who need wireless freedom
- Buyers who need full audio specifications before purchase
Verdict: The Arctis Pro + GameDAC is the dedicated wired DAC option in this SteelSeries comparison.
10 Best wired with detachable microphone
SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wired Gaming Headset
- Use
- Gaming
- Connection
- Wired
- PlayStation
- Yes
- Xbox
- Yes
- Nintendo Switch
- Yes
$43.99 (as of 10/24/2026 08:44 PDT - Details)
The listing name states a detachable ClearCast microphone and a lightweight steel-reinforced headband. The seller's spec field lists PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch support, similar to the Nova 1P Multi.
Pros
- Detachable ClearCast Microphone is in the listing name
- PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch support in the seller's specs
- Steel-reinforced headband is in the listing name
Cons
- No driver size or frequency response is stated
- No noise cancellation is stated
- Cable length is not stated
Good fit if
- Players who want a removable microphone for travel or desk use
- Users who need one wired headset across PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch
Skip if
- Players who need wireless
- Buyers who need noise cancelling or extra audio specs
Verdict: The Arctis 1 Wired is the detachable-mic wired option for multi-platform players.
How they compare
Our selection method
The pool for this guide contains 10 SteelSeries gaming headsets from the current seller catalogue. Because that is fewer than 12 listings, every entry in the pool appears as a pick below. Shortlisting rules were: use only SteelSeries-brand products, prefer the seller's stated connection type and platform compatibility, and check the listing name for features such as spatial audio, noise cancelling, detachable microphones, and a dedicated DAC. The prices on this page are live and read from the store listing. Nobody at this site has tested these headsets, so the picks are based on the listed specifications, product names, and the manufacturer's published model tiers.
What matters when choosing
Wireless or wired: check the connection type
SteelSeries headsets in this pool fall into two connection groups. The listing name or seller spec states Wireless for models like the Arctis Nova 5 Wireless and Arctis Nova 7P Wireless. Wired models include the New Arctis Nova 1P Multi and Arctis 1 Wired. If the connection type is not stated, treat it as an open question, as with the Arctis Nova Pro Multi-System and the Arctis Nova 1P PS5 Headphones.
Bluetooth Classic is the standard radio protocol behind wireless headphones, according to the Bluetooth SIG. The seller did not state battery life for any wireless model in this pool.
Platform support: PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch
In the pool, the Arctis Nova 1P Multi states support for PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. The Arctis 1 Wired states the same three platforms. The Arctis Pro + GameDAC states PlayStation support. Several other models use generic names like Multi-System or Multi-Platform, but the seller's spec data does not list specific consoles. If a headset does not name a platform, do not assume it works on that console.
Spatial audio and noise cancelling
Two wired listings mention spatial audio: the New Arctis Nova 1P Multi includes 360° Spatial Audio in its listing name, and the Arctis Nova 1P PS5 Headphones includes 360° Space Sound. Noise cancelling appears in the Nova 1P Multi spec field and in the Nova 1P PS5 listing name. No wireless model in this pool states spatial audio or noise cancelling in the data provided.
Microphones and built-in audio hardware
The Arctis 1 Wired is the only pick whose listing name calls out a detachable ClearCast microphone. The Arctis Pro + GameDAC is the only pick that states a dedicated DAC and amp. If a detachable microphone or external DAC matters to you, these are the two models to check first. For other picks, the seller does not state the microphone type in the pool data.
Hearing safety and volume
The CDC and NIDCD explain that long or repeated exposure to sounds at or above 85 dBA can cause hearing loss. Music through headphones at maximum volume is listed by NIDCD at 94 to 110 dBA. When using any gaming headset, keep volume at a level that lets you hear the game and take breaks to protect your hearing. See the sources for more detail.
Questions
What is the best SteelSeries headset in this comparison?
Based on the seller's product data, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is the top pick. It is the only Nova Pro listing in this pool whose name includes Wireless, and its listing also says Multi-System. Several other Nova models are also wireless, but the Nova Pro name is the highest model tier in this pool.
Are all SteelSeries headsets in this guide wireless?
No. The pool contains both wireless and wired models. The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, Nova 5 Wireless, Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2, Nova 7P Wireless, and Nova 3P Wireless have a wireless connection stated by the seller. The New Arctis Nova 1P Multi and Arctis 1 Wired have a wired connection stated by the seller. For the Arctis Nova Pro Multi-System and Arctis Nova 1P PS5 Headphones, the connection type is not stated by the seller.
Which SteelSeries headsets work with PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch?
The New Arctis Nova 1P Multi and Arctis 1 Wired both state PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch support in the seller's spec field. The Arctis Pro + GameDAC states PlayStation support. Several other models include Multi-System or Multi-Platform in the listing name, but the seller does not list specific consoles in the pool data, so check the listing or manufacturer before buying.
Do these headsets have noise cancelling or spatial audio?
In the seller's data, the New Arctis Nova 1P Multi includes 360° Spatial Audio in its listing name and noise cancelling in its spec field. The Arctis Nova 1P PS5 Headphones includes 360° Space Sound and Noise Cancelling in its listing name. No wireless model in this pool states spatial audio or noise cancelling in the data provided.
Why should I care about volume when using a gaming headset?
Noise-induced hearing loss can be caused by sounds that are too loud, even briefly, or by loud and long-lasting sounds. The NIDCD lists music through headphones at maximum volume at 94 to 110 dBA, which is above the 85 dBA level that can lead to hearing loss with long or repeated exposure. Keep game audio at a moderate level and give your ears breaks.
Change log
- : First published.