The Arctis Nova 5X headset from SteelSeries is pretty special. Available for under £130 this device is at the upper end of the mid-point price range. However, this outlay is worth every penny if you love gaming and plenty of features. Additionally, they are unbelievably comfortable and they are compatible with many gaming platforms.
Depending on which model you buy, you can connect seamlessly to your Xbox, PC, or PlayStation. The Arctis Nova 5X headset is designed for Xbox and PC. Furthermore, it has a wireless dongle or Bluetooth compatibility. Accordingly, you can use it on your Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, or ROG Ally if you so wish. This versatility was impressive. However, it was the build and audio quality that blew me away!
Alongside this, the introduction of a mobile gaming app was spectacular. SteelSeries has outdone itself with this user-friendly software. With the touch of a button, you can alter your EQ settings or select pre-designed gaming profiles. Consequently, you can adjust your audio on the fly and maximise your gaming potential.
What’s in the box of the Arctis Nova 5X headset?
- The packaging is robust and attractive. Furthermore, it can be recycled, and the contents are well protected.
- The Arctis Nova 5X headset has a sleek design. The black finish is professional, and the tactile buttons are well-positioned. Moreover, it has a retractable microphone.
- Connect the headset with the wireless dongle.
- Extend your dongle connection with the USB extender.
- Charge the device with the USB-C cable.
- Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
SteelSeries is renowned for its exceptional gaming accessories. Luckily, the Arctis Nova 5X headset doesn’t break this mould. This device has it all! Spatial awareness audio for immersive sound, an exceptional microphone that delivers crystal clear communication, and a whopping 60-hour battery life. Furthermore, you may flit between wireless and Bluetooth connectivity at the touch of a button. Subsequently, you can game and take calls with ease.
Alongside these elements is the exceptional Nova companion app. This free-to-download software allows you to utilise pre-installed game profiles. Additionally, you may save a unique profile for your wireless and Bluetooth connection. Accordingly, you’ll enjoy a seamless transition and a user-friendly experience every time you play your favourite game.
The ability to use your headset for a week without charging is an attractive proposition. The 60-hour battery life and fast charging facility make this a reality. For “normal” gamers, this battery life far outweighs their gaming hours. However, streamers and heavy users will find the fast charging essential. Luckily, a quick boost of power gets you back into the game in no time. Consequently, around 2 hours of charging will fill the battery and get you back on your feet. Alternatively, 15 minutes of charge will give you 6 hours of gaming fun.
Connectivity.
I never knew I needed multipoint technology until I tested it. The ability to flit from one device to the other at the touch of a button is game-changing. Moreover, if you need to take important phone calls, or you use video calling for work, the Arctis Nova 5X headset has you covered. The discreet button on the earcups transfers connectivity from your USB dongle to any compatible Bluetooth device.
This quick and trouble-free transition lets you change gaming platforms without fuss. Moreover, there are fewer wires and even fewer problems to overcome. This user-friendly experience is ideal if you want to reduce stress whilst improving your limited gaming time.
On top of this, the Nova companion app allows you to adjust your gaming profile and settings on the fly. Therefore, if you change genre or your hearing becomes sensitive, you can tweak the settings for the ultimate audio experience.
Sound quality.
The audio quality blew my mind! The 40mm Neodymium drivers deliver crisp tones and an exceptional bass line. The highly detailed soundscape is perfect for audiophiles. Additionally, the balanced levels ensure that every game, film, or TV series sounds as it should. These drivers support the exceptional 360° Spatial Audio.
This immersive audio experience allows users to hear every sound. This creates a truly unique and captivating sensation that transforms how you game. Additionally, the ability to identify minute noises gives the user a match-winning edge. As such, if you love competitive FPS games, or you adore booming soundtracks and awe-inspiring sound effects, then these headphones are ideal.
Competitive titles fall flat if communication is poor. Luckily, the retractable microphone utilises ClearCast 2.X. This next-gen feature delivers 2x the bandwidth and twice the audio clarity (32KHz/16Bit audio). This is essential if you wish to remove hideous ambient sounds. Thankfully, this special mic is beautifully clear without any unfortunate cracking, popping, or echoed audio. Furthermore, you needn’t shout or scream as the microphone head can be placed wherever you wish. The result? Clear communication with your friends and a quieter house.
Build quality.
This lightweight device is flexible, comfortable, and perfect for marathon sessions. Moreover, the tactile earcup dials enhance usability. Whereas the retractable microphone retains a streamlined appearance. Thankfully, the oversized earcups are comfortable without adding pressure to your temples. Moreover, if you are a wearer of glasses, the soft padding enables you to game comfortably.
This padding never overheated, and I experienced no sweating or other heat-related side effects. Additionally, the soft support headband can be adjusted to create the perfect fit. This material is supported by a strong but flexible main headband unit. This hard-wearing element is designed with poise and balance in mind. Consequently, once you place the device on your head, it won’t slip, and you’ll feel no pressure or discomfort.
Is the Arctis Nova 5X headset worth it?
SteelSeries has somehow moved the goalposts again. Thanks to the incredible Nova companion app, I believe that these headphones are better than the Arctis Nova 7X Wireless headphones. This is a big statement as I love everything about the 7X. However, the next-gen microphone, exceptional audio, incredible build quality, and user-friendly app make this a market leader. Accordingly, it’s a no-brainer! Up the ante and impress your friends by buying this here!
(More information on SteelSeries can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! SteelSeries provided a sample for an unbiased and free review!)
