I play on almost anything – and the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X still comes out on top every time

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New PC graphics cards and CPUs are coming out all the time, constantly changing the gaming landscape. Gaming peripherals are different. Good products can remain relevant in the space years after launch.

Released in 2022, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless is a prime example of that. I bought the Xbox edition back in November 2023, and it’s still my favourite multi-platform gaming headset almost two years on.

Arctis Nova 7 vs. 7X

Shopping for a headset can get incredibly confusing if you’re looking to use it across multiple platforms like the PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC, Xbox, and on mobile. Some headsets simply aren’t capable of doing that, so where do you start?

SteelSeries, that’s where.

When it comes to SteelSeries, there are two models to keep in mind. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 — visually identifiable by its pure black headband strap — only works with PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, PC, mobile, and tablet. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X, however — sporting its easily noticeable green strap — works with all of the above and the Xbox (Xbox One, Series X, and Series S).

Due to differences in their wireless protocol technology under the hood, Xbox consoles cannot work with the same type of headset channels as models designed for other consoles. Unlike Switch and PC platforms, Xbox consoles also don’t support Bluetooth, so they are left out of the conversation when it comes to many high-end gaming headsets.

Thankfully, the switchable multi-platform wireless dongle changes all that.

Exquisite versatility

For any gamer who likes to jump between every platform, you can simply take the dongle out of whatever machine you’re using and switch to audio from the next e.g. watching a Netflix movie on an Xbox (it’s the only platform with decent media remotes) and playing more of The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered on PS5.

The Arctis Nova 7X’s Bluetooth mode is icing on the cake for dual audio. In my case, I can listen to whatever game I play via the dongle, whilst connecting the 7X to my phone via Bluetooth to listen to whatever Instagram reels my friends randomly send me or video gameplay guides on YouTube — all without having to take the headset off.

Whichever way you connect, the Arctis Nova 7X utilises SteelSeries’ 40mm neodymium magnetic drivers that drop high-quality sound for games, TV, and movies — and even 3D Tempest audio for compatible games like Returnal, Horizon Forbidden West, and Spider-Man: Miles Morales.

The USB-C dongle may not mean wireless compatibility for everyone if they don’t have a PC for a USB-port, but the Arctis Nova 7X’s included 1.5m USB-C to USB-A adapter means you can connect to any rig or console without any issue. However, I did separately buy a dedicated wireless adapter so I could cleanly plug the dongle into the back of my Xbox Series X without that cluttered look.

As for PS5 owners, your console has a USB-C port right in the front, so your dongle can go straight in. You can use any adapter on the standard USB-A ports as well if you wish.

Nintendo Switch 2 issues

While the Arctis Nova 7X can connect to the original Nintendo Switch via the headset’s dongle with no issue — both plugged directly into the handheld’s USB-C port and docked via USB-A — there have been ongoing compatibility issues with the Nintendo Switch 2.

While still connectable with the Switch 2 in Bluetooth mode, Nintendo’s new handheld/home console hybrid’s audio still isn’t working with the Arctis Nova 7X’s dongle outside of recognising it as a microphone — even after I installed the latest SteelSeries firmware update specifying system compatibility with this model, and then a factory reset before trying again.

Comfort and battery life

Regardless of the system you’re playing on or the connection mode you’re using, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X offers a comfortable viewing and gaming experience with its plush airweave cushion and lightweight steel headband. The retractable mic provides a sleek option for group chats without being cumbersome.

However, it’s important to note that wearing the Arctis Nova 7X for extended periods can lead to pressure on the sides of your head after around 4-5 hours. If you’re planning on long gaming sessions, be sure to take breaks to avoid discomfort.

In terms of battery life, the headset’s claimed 38-hour battery holds up well in real-world usage. With regular daily use, you’ll likely only need to charge it once every couple of weeks.

Where to buy the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X

Despite its limitations, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X is a versatile multi-platform headset suitable for gaming on Xbox, PlayStation, PC, Nintendo Switch, mobile, or tablet without breaking the bank. You can purchase it now on Amazon, where it’s currently on sale for 30% off, making it a great value for a gaming headset that can also double as wireless headphones for travel.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X

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Amazon
Gaming