Over the years, SteelSeries has consistently impressed gamers and audiophiles alike by listening to community feedback and addressing it across different price points, form factors, and feature upgrades. I respect that they take criticism to heart and continually strive to improve with each new release. Their newest top-tier headset, the Arctis Nova Elite, might just be the ultimate culmination of that philosophy.
SteelSeries’ latest premium audio model tackles just about every complaint I’ve ever had about their headsets. The main trade-off? It comes with one of the highest price tags I’ve seen on a SteelSeries product, making you seriously consider whether you’ll take full advantage of its indulgent features to justify the cost.
## What’s in the Box?
The Arctis Nova Elite wireless headset retails at $599.99 and is available in two color styles: Black, and Sage/Gold. The packaging is familiar to anyone who’s seen the Arctis Nova Pro, offering:
– The Arctis Nova Elite headset
– A control deck
– Three USB-A-to-USB-C connector cables
– Two removable and rechargeable battery packs
– A pop filter for the retractable mic
– A 3.5mm audio cable
– A carrying bag
– An instruction manual
You can also download the free SteelSeries Arctis Companion App to tap into the headset’s onboard settings, access unique sound profiles, and make adjustments right from your phone. However, you will still need the SteelSeries GG app on a PC to upgrade the headset’s firmware—the mobile app won’t suffice.
## Build Quality & Comfort
The headset feels solid and robust. The classic retractable mic makes a return and performs great for gaming communication. There’s also a second internal mic on the opposite earcup designed for taking phone calls over Bluetooth or for other “lifestyle” uses when you’d prefer not to use the boom mic—a nice touch.
The real game-changer sits under the earcups: SteelSeries’ latest carbon fiber audio drivers. While we’ll get to the performance soon, rest assured these are a noticeable upgrade, even compared to the high standard set by the Nova Pro.
Button quality has also improved, especially the volume control, which now sports a textured surface I prefer over the smoother toggles on previous models. The headband is reinforced using a combination of metal and leatherette, offering extra durability. However, the added firmness means it can squeeze a bit too tightly. Short stints are fine, but all-day wear left my ears a bit sore—not the most comfortable fit SteelSeries has ever designed.
## Cross-Platform Compatibility
A huge step forward is universal compatibility. There are three USB cables included, and for good reason. Unlike previous generations, there are no separate PlayStation or Xbox versions of this headset. The Arctis Nova Elite is the only SteelSeries headset that works right out of the box with PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox, Bluetooth devices, and Nintendo Switch 2. This all-in-one approach is a big deal for anyone who’s kept up with SteelSeries’ varied lineup.
You’ll need to make space for the control deck and its cables, but few compromises exist elsewhere.
## Audio Performance & Features
SteelSeries proudly dubs this headset “One Audio System for All”—and for good reason. The Nova Elite is a step above anything else I’ve tried from them.
### Exceptional Audio Quality
The new carbon fiber drivers deliver audio that is exceptionally clean and precise. This headset is built not just for today’s audio demands, but for future technologies as well. The result is crystal-clear sound with minimal distortion.
### Customizable Sound Profiles
The Arctis app offers over 100 audio profiles, letting you fine-tune your experience. Whether you’re craving deep, punchy bass for intense games like Armored Core 6 or crisp, balanced trebles for music, there’s a profile for you.
### Noise Cancellation & Transparency Modes
Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency modes help you control your immersion level. The noise cancellation keeps distractions out impressively well. Transparency mode works best when audio isn’t playing—while it could let in a bit more sound when music is playing, it’s still a valuable feature for situational awareness.
### Simultaneous Multi-Device Connections
One of the Nova Elite’s most powerful features is its ability to stream active audio from multiple sources. Earlier models like the Arctis Nova Pro flirted with this idea, but the Elite removes platform barriers completely. You can connect simultaneously to your PC, Xbox, PlayStation 5, and a Bluetooth device—and run Bluetooth alongside at least one other source.
For multi-device users, this is a game-changer. No more unplugging and moving headsets between devices—everything works seamlessly through one control deck, simplifying your setup and workflow.
## Battery Life & Convenience
Battery performance is excellent. You get a full day’s playtime on a single charge, and swapping batteries is easy—just pop a fresh one in from the charging slot in the control deck. This convenience means you’re rarely without power, even during marathon sessions.
## Is It Worth the Price?
At $600, the Arctis Nova Elite is a serious investment. But for that price, you get SteelSeries’ best headset to date. The audio is crisp, customizable, and immersive. The battery system is efficient and easy to manage. The second built-in mic expands its utility for workouts or phone calls beyond the gaming desk.
However, the standout feature is the seamless multi-source audio streaming. For anyone juggling several devices regularly, this feature alone can justify the price by saving time and hassle.
## Final Thoughts
Despite the high price, the Arctis Nova Elite is a first-class headset, jam-packed with performance improvements, ease-of-use features, and thoughtful quality-of-life upgrades. If you demand the best and want effortless audio management across every platform you own, SteelSeries delivers—yet again—with a truly elite experience.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146835/steelseries-arctis-nova-elite-headset-review-score