Gaming headsets can be painfully expensive. It’s a struggle that many gamers run into when building out accessories for consoles or PC, oftentimes leaving them to pick something of lower quality to save on cost. SteelSeries has recognized this issue and has put out a gaming headset that has a little bit of everything from the premium line at just over a hundred dollars.
The Arctis Nova 3X Wireless Headset is a wonder. It is compatible with Xbox, PC, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Mac, VR, and mobile devices. While not as beefy in features as the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, the Arctis Nova 3X has taken some of the best design elements and created a cost-effective option with shocking versatility and customization.
Key Details
- Developer: SteelSeries
- Compatibility: Xbox, PC, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Mac, VR, Mobile Devices
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Battery Life: 40 Hours
- Noise Cancelling: No
- Price: $109.99
- Review Sample Provided: Yes
A Lightweight Build Meets Stunning Colors
The Arctis Nova 3X is exactly why gamers love SteelSeries. The entire body of the headset is so light that it is barely noticeable when being worn. The microphone detaches and comes with a sizeable boom cover to minimize feedback. The best element of the design comes with the adjustable fabric headband and soft fabric earphones.
While not as durable as the Pro Wireless, the soft material used for the earphones and the headband is quality and breathable. I actually liked these better than the Pro because my ears didn’t get as hot. The band is a little tight, but after adjusting the settings to loosen it, it felt much better. For the price, this looks and feels premium, and that is a rare find for gaming headsets in this price bracket.
What I love most about the Arctis Nova 3X design, however, are the colors. We reviewed the Aqua. It also comes in Lavender, White, and Black. The Aqua and Lavender as so vibrant that they almost look specially painted. In a world of grey, black, and monotone designs, these bright colors stand out in the best way and offer a greater range of customization for gaming setups.
Audio Quality is Exactly Where It Should Be For the Price
SteelSeries has developed a very specific reputation for high-quality sound. In the more expensive headphones, it offers some of the best gaming sound options on the market. However, in order to make these affordable, there are a few features that have been cut that are typically included in the more expensive models.
The first big hit is with noise cancellation. If you are a big fan of cutting out extra sound to appreciate the ambiance of a game, these headphones won’t be the best option. The lack of noise cancellation is startling, and I did have to turn the volume up to drown out what was happening around me.
Despite this, the headset offers incredible sound, especially while gaming. I have said before, SteelSeries headphones aren’t for audiophiles trying to listen to every guitar string of a Vance Joy album. However, few brands nail gaming audio the way that SteelSeries manages to do, and the Arctis Nova 3X delivers.
Audio is crisp and clear, with presets for specific games that optimize the most important overlays for the best experience. I especially like playing Baldur’s Gate 3 with these headphones, as everything comes through perfectly.
It is also incredible to play Mario Kart World on the Switch with these headphones, as the soundtrack sounds completely different than with my standard Bluetooth earbuds.
Nintendo Switch Compatibility Changes Everything
There are very few good gaming headsets that are compatible with the Nintendo Switch, and the Arctis Nova 3X is a godsend with the Switch 2.
I have been testing out different games, including The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, with this headset, and it all sounds amazing. Clear, crisp, and perfectly optimized, this headset ensures that you hear every creature sneaking up behind you, and every note of each soundtrack. I have especially been enjoying it with Pokémon Legends: Arceus, as it helps you hear the very gentle notifier that a Shiny has spawned in.
Final Score – 8.5/10
If you need a quality headset at an affordable price, there are few that will stand out like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3X Wireless. The light build, crisp audio, solid battery life, and usability make it one of the best investments a gamer could make.
While the lack of noise cancellation is a particularly difficult one for me, the beautiful color and connectivity options more than make up for it. Just be very careful not to misplace your microphone when you detach it, as it is a very easy thing to lose. It also attracts kittens who think the sponge is a cat toy.
Overall, it is a fantastic option and offers quality and premium additions for a reasonable price.
**A sample of the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3X Wireless headset was provided to Bonus Action for the purpose of this review**
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