SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 are decent for wired gaming. These comfortable and well-built headphones have a warm sound profile that delivers extra boom to audio, which can help emphasize sound effects like footsteps. Since they use a 1/8" TRRS cable, you can connect them to any console with this jack. They have a boom mic, which does a great job of capturing your voice clearly, even in moderately noisy environments. Since they have a closed-back design, their soundstage doesn't feel very immersive, and they're prone to inconsistencies in audio delivery, so you may need to readjust their fit each time you use them to get a more consistent sound.

-- As reviewed by Rtings
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 1

Product details

  • Almighty Audio — Custom-designed Nova Acoustic System features best-in class audio for gaming with High Fidelity Drivers. Fully customize your ideal sound experience with a first-in gaming Pro-grade Parametric EQ..Note : If the size of the earbud tips does not match the size of your ear canals or the headset is not worn properly in your ears, you may not obtain the correct sound qualities or call performance. Change the earbud tips to ones that fit more snugly in your ear
  • 360° Spatial Audio — Immersive surround sound transports you to the gaming world, letting you hear every critical step, reload, or vocal cue to give you an advantage. *Fully compatible with Tempest 3D Audio for PS5 / Microsoft Spatial Sound
  • Adjustable for Perfect Fit — The ComfortMAX System includes height-adjusting, rotating earcups with AirWeave memory cushion and a stretchy band. The lightweight form of the headset keeps you comfortable no matter how long you play.
  • Bidirectional Noise-Cancelling Mic — The ClearCast Gen 2 mic silences background noise by up to 25dB on any platform to give you crystal clear comms. Fully retract the mic into the earcup for a sleeker look.
  • Multi-Platform Support — Easily connect to any gaming console with a 3.5mm jack, such as PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, or Switch. Works great with mobile devices as well.
  • Easy Settings — On-board controls allow convenient volume adjustment and muting on the headset.

PROS

+ Well-built with comfortable fit.
+ Boom mic has great overall performance.

CONS

- Prone to inconsistencies in audio delivery.

Expert reviews and ratings

By Rtings on October 20, 2022
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 are decent for wired gaming. These comfortable and well-built headphones have a warm sound profile that delivers extra boom to audio, which can help emphasize sound effects like footsteps. Since they use a 1/8" TRRS cable, you can connect them to any console with this jack. They have a boom mic, which does a great job of capturing your voice clearly, even in moderately noisy environments. Since they have a closed-back design, their soundstage doesn't feel very immersive, and they're prone to inconsistencies in audio delivery, so you may need to readjust their fit each time you use them to get a more consistent sound.
72
By Tom's Guide on January 09, 2023
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 provides pretty good sound and a comfortable fit. However, at $60, it’s somewhat more expensive than most budget gaming headsets, and the 3.5 mm connectivity limits its utility with certain platforms. It’s worth considering for entry-level console gamers.
70
By TechRadar on March 17, 2023
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 is a no-frills gaming headset that gets the job done. Its price and build quality make it worth considering, but you’re probably better off with a USB alternative from the brand.
60
By IGN on September 09, 2022
The plug-and-play nature of the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 makes it a great all-around headset for gaming and entertainment across all of your devices thanks to its 3.5mm audio connector. It punches well above its weight when it comes to sound quality, as it features the same high-end audio drivers included in the Arctis Nova 7. The redesigned frame is super lightweight and height-adjustable for a better fit, and the addition of the stretchy headband ensures all-day comfort whether you’re gaming, listening to music, or watching a movie.
80