I’ve been in search of a brand new headset for some time now, so I needed to say sure when SteelSeries requested if I’d wish to strive a brand new one. The factor is, I’m in a bit little bit of a bizarre spot; I’ve no PC (solely a Mac) and play predominantly on the Change, so a number of headsets, whereas nice, often don’t work with my setup. Normally, they’re all centered on PC gaming (which is smart; I’m within the minority, I get it), so once they stated this one had a cell app to alter the settings, I used to be very eager to strive it out.
The Arctis Nova 5 Wi-fi headset has all of the options you’d hope for a headset on this worth vary, however the app is completely different. You’ll be able to pair the headset to your telephone like every other Bluetooth gadget, and the app picks it up. You’ll be able to management the degrees of the headset and the microphone in your telephone, too (in addition to examine the battery life). The thrilling factor is that the equalizer is constructed into the app to allow you to change the EQ for various video games. There are additionally choices for various music settings as properly. Taking part in Apex Legends with the preset set sounded significantly better, as I may hear the individuals blast me from behind and kill me. I’m a bit rusty. Between the 2 connection varieties, 2.4 GHz (by way of dongle) and Bluetooth, it can save you a unique preset as properly.
The Arctis Nova 5 Wi-fi has two methods of connecting to something you’re attempting to apply it to; the inbuilt Bluetooth and a 2.4 GHz USB-C dongle are additionally included. Sadly, there’s no option to retailer the little dongle someplace, not even a bag or case with the headset. However seeing as you’re unlikely to depart your gaming dungeon with this factor, I’ll give it a cross. The dongle can plug into the Nintendo Change by way of the USB-C port on the underside of the console; the headset field features a USB-A to USB-C adapter with the intention to use docked as properly. The PS5 has a USB-C port on the entrance, or you possibly can use the adapter in the event you wished. One factor to notice is that the two.4ghz and Bluetooth inputs can’t be overlaid; it’s one or the opposite. It’s simple to modify between the 2 although with a button on the headset.
The Nova 5 presents a really spectacular 60-hour battery life, which appears very spectacular for one thing so mild and pulling double obligation between Bluetooth and wi-fi. I don’t have any long-term exams on the battery life, however I’ve had the headset a short time now and have but to cost it.
The headset’s microphone is best than my present headset’s microphone, which might simply unmute itself and play the audio popping out of the headset again into an inner microphone – so far, with my testing, I’ve had no complaints. Sorry, I needed to whine about that someplace. Again on the Nova 5, the microphone’s high quality is kind of good, listening to voice claps again although you do hear the whole lot happening in your room. Some software program can repair that up however that’s often for PC avid gamers solely, in order a console participant you’re simply going to need to take heed to my canine and fan – sorry.
The Nova 5’s design is comparatively unremarkable. I imply that within the nicest attainable approach; it seems to be like a black gaming headset and does its job properly. It doesn’t have RGB or large stickers and messes throughout it, excellent. The stretchy headband up high and the sunshine weight of the unit retains issues cozy for an prolonged time frame; my ears didn’t warmth up as a lot as different headsets I’ve had prior to now. I additionally like seeing the mute mild on the headset increase – neat!
The Arctis Nova 5 Wi-fi headset is a strong piece of package, particularly contemplating the asking worth. May the microphone have some kind of in-built noise suppression for console gamers? Positive. However it does the whole lot else completely. The construct high quality is robust whereas holding the burden down, the battery life is super, and including an app to regulate the EQ and different settings means console gamers don’t need to log onto their PC (and even have one) to alter settings. Certainly, it’s a strong purchase.