SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite headset review: Ultimate versatility, eye-watering cost

Over the years, SteelSeries has consistently impressed with their products by actively listening to feedback from their community. They address this through different price points, form factors, and feature upgrades designed to meet the varied needs of users. I genuinely respect the brand for taking criticism to heart and making improvements with each new release.

Enter the Arctis Nova Elite, SteelSeries’ new top-tier headset, which feels like the grand culmination of that philosophy. This premium, flagship audio model addresses nearly every complaint I’ve ever had about a SteelSeries headset. The main downside? It comes with one of the highest price tags I’ve seen on any SteelSeries product, making you question whether you’ll use its most indulgent features enough 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 package contents are similar to what you’d expect from the earlier Arctis Nova Pro, including:

– The headset
– Control deck
– Three USB-A-to-USB-C connector wires
– Two removable and rechargeable battery packs
– Pop filter for the retractable mic
– 3.5mm audio cable
– Carrying bag
– Instruction manual

You can also download the free SteelSeries Arctis Companion App to access your headset’s on-board settings, unique sound profiles, and adjustments straight from your phone. However, firmware upgrades still require the SteelSeries GG desktop app, as the mobile app won’t handle firmware updates.

## Comfort & Build Quality

The headset feels sturdy in hand. The retractable mic returns and works flawlessly for gaming communication. Additionally, there’s a second internal mic on the opposite earcup, designed for taking phone calls via Bluetooth or for other lifestyle uses where you wouldn’t want the retractable mic out. I appreciate having this option.

Beneath the earcups, you’ll find SteelSeries’ latest innovation: carbon fiber audio drivers. These represent a notable upgrade over even the already high-quality Nova Pro drivers. The headset’s buttons have also been improved, with the volume control in particular featuring a textured surface for better grip—a nice change from the smoother toggles found on previous models.

The headband is now more robust, constructed with a combination metal and leatherette band. However, the increased firmness means it can squeeze a bit tightly, leading to some discomfort during extended wear. While it’s manageable in short sessions, I did experience sore ear lobes after using it all day for work—making it not the comfiest fit SteelSeries has delivered.

Outside of this mild discomfort, there’s little to criticize. You’ll need to make a bit of desk space for the control deck and its wires, but that’s a small trade-off. The inclusion of three USB cables is particularly significant, as the Arctis Nova Elite is compatible with PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox, Bluetooth, and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 right out of the box. There’s no need for platform-specific versions, making this a true all-in-one solution—a huge deal if you’ve tracked the evolution of SteelSeries products.

## Performance: All Needs Addressed

SteelSeries proudly advertises the Arctis Nova Elite as “One Audio System for All,” and they’re not exaggerating. This headset truly stands a step above every other product I’ve tried from SteelSeries, systematically addressing nearly every issue I’ve encountered in previous models.

It starts with the audio: the sound quality inside the Arctis Nova Elite’s earcups is remarkably clean. Built with next-gen sound production technologies, this headset delivers crystal-clear audio with minimal compression or distortion. The Arctis app offers over 100 audio profiles, making it easy to find the perfect sound signature to match your tastes. There’s even a dedicated Armored Core 6 profile for punchy bass and sharp trebles.

SteelSeries’ Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency modes also shine. The Noise Cancellation is highly effective at keeping distractions out when you’re immersed in game audio or music. Transparency mode works well when no audio is playing, though I found it less effective when I had sound running—I’d have liked to hear a bit more of my surroundings under those conditions.

The “Elite” designation isn’t just about sound quality. This headset can stream audio from multiple sources simultaneously. While the Arctis Nova Pro introduced this feature, the Elite takes it a step further by removing the barrier between PlayStation and Xbox versions. You can have it plugged into your PC, Xbox, PlayStation 5, and connect via Bluetooth—all at once—with the option to combine Bluetooth and one other source simultaneously.

Battery life is another strong point. Each battery provides a full day of use, and swapping or recharging them via the control deck is easy and intuitive. For those juggling multiple gaming or work platforms daily, being able to access audio from all sources through one device is a game changer, streamlining your entire setup.

## Does the Quality Justify the Price?

Admittedly, $600 is a steep price for a gaming headset. But that premium cost does get you the best headset SteelSeries has ever produced. The audio is exceptionally crisp, customizable through the companion app, and the battery system is well-designed for true all-day play. The secondary built-in mic is a thoughtful feature for non-gaming scenarios, like wearing the headset at the gym.

For me, the true highlight is the ability to stream audio from multiple sources and operate seamlessly with every platform I own. No more moving the control deck or unplugging devices—just effortless, high-quality audio everywhere.

## Final Thoughts

Despite its premium price tag, the Arctis Nova Elite offers an impressive combination of audio performance, quality-of-life upgrades, and cross-platform compatibility. SteelSeries has listened to its community and delivered a flagship headset that not only streamlines your desk, but elevates your everyday audio experience. If you can justify the investment, there’s no question: this is the most advanced and versatile headset SteelSeries has ever made.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146835/steelseries-arctis-nova-elite-headset-review-score

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