- Table of Contents
- Intro
- Updates
- Comparison
- Best Headphones
- Conclusion
- Discussions
We've currently tested 14 SteelSeries headphones. This brand is known for its gamer-oriented design that focuses on low latency, sound reproduction, and microphone performance.
Updates
- 07/15/2021 SteelSeries Arctis Prime reviewed
- 05/04/2021 SteelSeries Arctis 7X Wireless reviewed
- 03/09/2021 SteelSeries Arctis 7 2019 Edition Wireless updated
- 12/17/2020 SteelSeries Arctis 7P Wireless reviewed
- 11/20/2020 SteelSeries Arctis 1 updated
Best SteelSeries Headphones
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Best SteelSeries Headset For Gaming
Type Over-earEnclosure Closed-BackWireless YesNoise Cancelling NoMic YesTransducer DynamicThe best SteelSeries headset for gaming that we've tested is the SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless. These well-built, comfortable headphones are designed for gaming, and they offer impressive performance. Out-of-the-box, they have a neutral sound profile that's suitable for listening to lots of audio content. However, if you prefer a different sound, you can also customize them using the graphic EQ and presets available in the SteelSeries Engine software. Their boom microphone has a great recording quality, and your voice sounds clear and full-bodied to your teammates, even if you're gaming in a lively environment. They also last for over fifteen hours off of a single charge, which should be more than enough for multiple gaming sessions without a recharge. Just keep in mind that they don't have native mic support with Xbox One over a wireless connection, so you'll have to use a Bluetooth connection with a phone or other device that has the Xbox app to chat with teammates.
Unfortunately, they don't have a very consistent audio delivery, so they may sound a bit different depending on their fit, seal, and positioning on your head. Also, their non-Bluetooth latency is somewhat high, and you may notice your audio and visuals falling slightly out of sync. Their boom microphone isn't detachable, either, so you can transition them into a more casual look. That said, these headphones still rank among the best gaming headsets and the best wireless gaming headsets that we've tested.
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Best SteelSeries Headset For Xbox One
Type Over-earEnclosure Closed-BackWireless YesNoise Cancelling NoMic YesTransducer DynamicThe best SteelSeries headphones for Xbox One that we've tested are the SteelSeries Arctis 9X. These comfortable, well-built headphones come with Xbox Wireless technology, so you receive full audio and microphone compatibility when wirelessly connected to an Xbox One or Xbox Series X console. This wireless connection also has low latency, so you shouldn't experience audio lag. They come with a retractable boom microphone with impressive recording quality, and your voice is transmitted clearly and accurately to your teammates on the other end of the line, even if you're gaming in a noisy place. Out-of-the-box, they have a pretty neutral sound profile that's suitable for listening to lots of different types of audio content, though they're lacking some low-bass. Fortunately, there's a graphic EQ and presets available in the SteelSeries Engine software to help you customize their sound. They also last for 28 hours off of a single charge, which is incredible.
Unfortunately, like most gaming headphones we've tested, they offer poor noise isolation, so you may be distracted by background noises if you're gaming in a lively setting. Also, their audio delivery isn't very consistent, so their bass and treble delivery may vary depending on their fit, seal, and positioning on your head, especially if you wear glasses or have curly hair. That said, if you're looking for a headset for your Xbox consoles with low latency, they're a solid choice.
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Best Budget SteelSeries Headset
Type Over-earEnclosure Closed-BackWireless NoNoise Cancelling NoMic YesTransducer DynamicThe SteelSeries Arctis 1 is the best budget SteelSeries headset that we've tested. These wired headphones offer a virtually latency-free gaming experience and are compatible with consoles that have an AUX port. Unlike other headphones in SteelSeries' lineup, they have a simple headband design that's lightweight and decently comfortable. Their warm sound profile adds an extra touch of boom to your mixes, which can help emphasize sound effects in your games. Their boom mic also does an excellent job of recording your voice, and it can separate speech from moderate ambient noise too.
Unfortunately, their price point is reflected in their build quality. These headphones are made from thin plastic, which doesn't feel very sturdy, and the hinges seem like they could break with a bit of tension. They're also not compatible with SteelSeries Engine software, and they're prone to inconsistencies in their audio reproduction, so you may need to adjust their fit and positioning each time you use them to ensure a more consistent sound. That said, if you don't mind their simple, no-frills design, these wallet-friendly headphones are a suitable choice.
Compared to other brands
- Xbox One-compatible. Fairly uncommon among gaming headphones, the SteelSeries Arctis 9X and SteelSeries Arctis 7X Wireless are fully compatible with the Xbox One using Microsoft's proprietary Xbox Wireless Connection.
- Great audio reproduction. SteelSeries headphones produce a well-balanced sound profile that's great for gaming, but they're also versatile enough to be used for listening to other audio genres like pop or podcasts.
- Clear-sounding microphone. The SteelSeries have good microphones. Their solid recording quality and noise handling mean those on the other end should be able to clearly hear your voice.
- Limited fit. Most SteelSeries headphones use a ski-band style headband, which can make getting the right fit hard. If your head is too big for the elastic headband and it reaches the frame, there's no way to further adjust these headphones to accommodate a larger size.
- Inconsistent frequency response. Due to Steelseries' unique ski-band style headband, you might not get a consistent sound each time you wear these headphones. If they don't fit you properly, you might notice deviations like a drop in bass.
- Poor noise isolation. If you're using these headphones at a gaming tournament, you'll hear a lot of background noise, including cheering fans and clicking keyboards.
The SteelSeries are good gaming headphones. Most of their headphones have balanced audio reproduction and solid microphones, making them suitable for gaming with others. Generally well-built, SteelSeries only makes over-ear headphones, and many of their designs have their unique ski-band headband for comfort. However, it may not be the best fit for everyone, especially those with large heads.
Recent Updates
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Jul 28, 2021: Checked product availability and text accuracy. There hasn't been a change in our recommendations.
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Apr 29, 2021: No changes in product picks after verifying their accuracy and availability.
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Jan 29, 2021: No changes made to product picks after verifying their availability and suitability.
Conclusion
SteelSeries offers headphones catered to gamers. Their unique design and good battery life make them great for long gaming sessions. Most of their headphones have impressive sound reproduction, too. However, you might not get a consistent sound each time you wear them, and users with larger heads might not find the unique ski-band headband comfortable or fitting.
If you're still shopping around for gaming headsets, check out our recommendations for the best gaming headsets and the best wireless gaming headsets.