As someone who has preferred SteelSeries headsets since 2014, when I reviewed the SteelSeries H Wireless Headset, I’ve been anxiously awaiting the successor to the Arctis Nova Pro. Collectively, we’ve named the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro our best gaming headset, since three of us use it daily. While the company’s customer service leaves a bit to be desired, and hopefully it has improved, SteelSeries headsets have consistently performed well for us. We especially love the swappable battery, which means we never have downtime or have to remember to plug anything in.
Well, the successor has been announced, and it’s the Arctis Nova Elite, the first in gaming to deliver Hi-Res wireless audio with 96kHz/24-bit support, along with a next-gen LC3+ codec. The headset is powered by new carbon fiber speaker drivers, and the team has improved the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) by reducing up to 42 percent more ambient noise than rival headsets. Another major change is OmniPlay with the new GameHub, which allows users to listen to four sources at once without any loss of clarity via 2X USB-C, Bluetooth, and line-in. The GameHub does have three USB-C inputs, though, so you can connect three of your systems at once without having to swap all the time. The Arctis Nova Elite is compatible with PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch.
The headset continues to offer two batteries, which means one is always in the charger while the other is in the headset. Running out of juice? It takes less than five seconds to swap, and you’re back up and running. We’re really not sure why no other company has done something similar.
As for the mic, it’s supposed to be improved, and early video reviews I watched this morning seem to confirm it. The Arctis Nova Elite also includes a discreet onboard beamforming mic, which it automatically switches to if the other mic is fully retracted. It’s great for on the go, when you don’t want to make it obvious that you’re talking to someone.
With a $599.99 price tag, though, it’s expected that the unit gets a physical upgrade, and it does. There’s now a full-metal frame, as well as a metal volume knob. Fancy gamers will love the new Sage & Gold finish, while all-black Obsidian is also available.
