Our Verdict
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are okay for mixed usage. While they're comfortable and their boom microphone is retractable, they aren't suited for commuting or offices as they barely reduce background noise and they don't support Bluetooth. They're not very portable and may not be the best choice for sports. Although their audio reproduction varies across users, once you get a proper fit, these headphones produce a fairly balanced sound. These are gaming headphones and their low latency, high battery life, and compatibility with most consoles make them a great choice for wired or wireless gaming.
- Well-built, durable design.
- Low latency for wireless gaming and video streaming.
- Great companion software with graphic EQ and presets.
- Impressive retractable microphone.
- Poor noise isolation.
- Can have a tight fit for some users.
- Bass and treble delivery varies significantly across users. Sensitive to glasses.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are good for neutral sound. Their audio reproduction varies greatly between users however, as the inconsistent bass and treble delivery depend on a proper fit, position, and seal. Luckily, the adjustable headband can get you closer to a neutral sound profile if you take the time to adjust them. Once achieved, these headphones have a slightly overemphasized bass sound but otherwise balanced sound profile. You can easily tweak it using the companion software's graphic EQ.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are passable for commuting. They reduce very little background noise and while they're comfortable enough to be worn for hours, they're bulky and not very portable. They also need to be within the range of their USB transmitter if you want to use them wirelessly. However, you can use them passively with their audio cable.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are okay for sports. Their bulky design isn't very portable and if you want to use them wirelessly, you'll need to plug in the USB transmitter into a PC. You can use them passively with their audio cable but it can be snagged on objects. They're stable, comfortable, and breathable enough to wear during light physical activity. However, they're not designed for intense workouts.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are fair for office use. While they're comfortable, even for multi-hour listening sessions, and their battery life can easily get you through a work day, they do a poor job of reducing background noise around you. You can turn up the volume to drown out noise without disturbing your coworkers too much. Their boom microphone also retracts, which helps these headphones transition into a more formal environment.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are great for wireless gaming. These comfortable headphones have a low latency that keeps you right in the middle of gameplay while their long battery life means you don't have to worry too much about recharging them. They also have a great boom microphone that captures voice clearly, even in loud environments. Although they have some troubles with consistent audio reproduction, once you get a proper fit, you shouldn't have much of a problem. You can also EQ them using their companion software.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are great for wired gaming. These comfortable headphones can be used wired on PC, PS4, and Xbox One with full audio and microphone capability. Their microphone captures voice clearly and even in loud environments, you'll still be understood. However, their audio reproduction is inconsistent and can vary across users. It's easily fixed when you find a proper fit though and you can further tweak their balanced sound profile with the companion software.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are good for phone calls. Their retractable boom microphone is malleable and captures voice clearly, even in louder environments. On the downside, they don't isolate much background noise, so you'll hear everything happening around you.
Changelog
- Updated Nov 21, 2019: Converted to Test Bench 1.3.1.
- Updated Nov 21, 2019: Converted to Test Bench 1.3.
- Updated Sep 05, 2019: We've updated the Base/Dock box and Connectivity section of the review to show this headset isn't wirelessly compatible with the Xbox One.
- Updated Feb 16, 2018: Converted to Test Bench 1.2.
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Popular Headphones Comparisons
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 is a great gaming headset. Like other headphones in the SteelSeries lineup, they have a durable build quality and a unique ski-band headband. Unfortunately, this design can also produce inconsistent bass and treble reproduction across users but with a proper fit, these headphones reveal a well-balanced sound. Unlike some other gaming headphones, however, they lack a charging dock. If you're still looking for gaming headsets, check out our recommendations for the best gaming headsets, the best wireless gaming headsets, and the best gaming headsets for PC.
The SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless are a bit better than the SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 for gaming headphones. The Pro Wireless have more connectivity options since they support Bluetooth and have a base that acts not only as a wireless transmitter but also as a charging station. Their microphone also has a better overall performance. The 7 are more breathable, though, and are significantly cheaper. If you don’t need Bluetooth and don’t care for the swappable battery design, the 7 may be a better choice, considering the huge price difference.
The newer SteelSeries Arctis 7 2019 Edition Wireless are slightly different style-wise from the SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 and seem to have more padding on the ear cups, making them deeper and more suitable for big ears. However, the overall performance of the two models is fairly similar and may not be worth the upgrade if you didn’t have any issue with the fit of the 2017 model. The 2019 Edition has a better wireless range, and you can now set your desired auto-off timer in the SteelSeries Engine software.
The Steelseries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are better for mixed usage than the Corsair VOID ELITE. The SteelSeries are better built, have a more comprehensive companion app, and are easier to carry around, courtesy of a retractable boom microphone, which also provides better recording quality than that of the Corsair. The SteelSeries are also more versatile, with full wireless and wired compatibility, the latter via an included 1/8” TRRS audio cable. Conversely, the Corsair provide a more consistent, marginally more spacious listening experience.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are better gaming headphones than the Logitech G Pro Gaming Headset. They are wireless, offer channel mixing, and they are noticeably better-built than the G Pro. The Arctis also have a more accurate and well-balanced sound profile, which can be customized inside their app. On the other hand, if you prefer a wired headset and don’t want to manage a battery-life, the G Pro are a better option.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are a better gaming headset than the HyperX Cloud 2/Cloud II. You get the freedom of wireless technology on top of better audio reproduction and great customization software. However, you'll have to manage battery life, which not everyone prefers. The HyperX is a wired headset, so you won't have to worry about this. The HyperX also has a slightly better isolation performance and is better built and more comfortable.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are a better gaming headset than the Corsair Void PRO RGB Wireless. They are better-built headphones and their microphone has better recording quality for online games. You can also use the SteelSeries wired with all platforms, which you can’t do with the Void RGB. The audio quality is noticeably better on the SteelSeries and they are also compatible with a great app that offers an EQ and multiple controls, including surround sound. On the other hand, the Corsair performs more consistently across different users and they have RGB lighting, which the SteelSeries don't have.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are better gaming headphones than the HyperX Cloud Alpha S. The SteelSeries can be used wired and wirelessly, which makes them slightly more versatile. They also have a 24-hour battery life so you don't have to worry too much about your battery dying during a long gaming session. Their companion software also offers a graphic EQ plus presets to help tweak their sound. However, the HyperX have bass sliders on each ear cup, and they have a 7.1 surround sound feature. Both headphones have a similarly great-performing boom microphone.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 is a better gaming headset than the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Wireless. It's more comfortable, noticeably better-built, and it has a more neutral and well-balanced sound profile. The microphone quality and the battery life are also considerably better on the Arctis 7. On the other hand, the Stealth 700 has a noise cancelling feature and are Bluetooth compatible, which the Arctis 7 aren't.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are better gaming headphones than the HyperX Cloud Alpha. The Arctis 7 are wireless headphones that offer more customization options thanks to the SteelSeries Engine software. Their microphone also has better recording quality and noise handling performance for online gaming. On the other hand, the wired HyperX Cloud Alpha have a better-balanced sound profile and feel more comfortable and durable. You can also detach the microphone and use them as your day-to-day headphones, which have a more casual look.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 and the Logitech G Pro X Gaming Headset are both good wired gaming headphones, although the SteelSeries are more versatile since you can use them wirelessly as well. The Logitech are more comfortable for long gaming sessions, though, and they feel even more durable. Their microphone doesn't perform as well as the SteelSeries' though, even though it's wired.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 is a better gaming headset than the Corsair HS70 Wireless. The SteelSeries is one of the best gaming headsets we’ve reviewed so far, thanks to its great design, features, and sound quality. They also have a very good microphone, and their 24-hour battery life will last you for a while. You can also use them wired, which you can’t do with the Corsair. They outperform the Corsair in pretty much every category but are a bit more expensive. If you have the budget for it, get the SteelSeries since they offer great value.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are much better gaming headphones than the Razer Nari Ultimate. The SteelSeries have a better control scheme and a much more stable fit. They also have a better-balanced sound profile out-of-the-box, which some users may prefer, and a significantly better microphone. Their battery lasts longer, too. However, the Razer have a bit longer wireless range and haptic feedback.
The Astro A40 TR Headset + MixAmp Pro 2017 are slightly better-wired gaming headphones than the SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017. The Astro are slightly more comfortable, their MixAmp allows you to customize your audio on the fly, and they have a better overall performing boom microphone. The Astro are advertised as being console locked, and may not be the best choice if you like to move between different consoles. The SteelSeries, on the other hand, leak less sound, have a 24-hour battery life, and can also be used wirelessly. However, you won't be able use them with a wireless connection on Xbox One since they don't support Xbox One Wireless.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 and the SteelSeries Arctis 1 each have their advantages. The Arctis 7 are more versatile gaming headphones since you can use them wirelessly or with a wired connection. The Arctis 1 only support wired use, but their microphone recording quality is significantly better. You also don't have to worry about battery life or latency issues with wired headphones. However, they aren't compatible with the SteelSeries Engine software, and they don't have a channel mixing feature or adjustable mic control. The Arctis 7 are much more customizable, have a great battery life, and their USB dongle keeps latency to a minimum, so they provide better value if you like wireless gaming.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are better gaming headphones than the HyperX Cloud 2/Cloud II Wireless. While both headphones are well-built, the SteelSeries are more customizable, thanks to their companion app, and can be used wired. However, the HyperX are more comfortable, and their boom mic offers a slightly better overall performance.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are better wireless gaming headphones than the Turtle Beach Elite Atlas Aero Wireless. The SteelSeries are more comfortable and feel much better-built. They also have a better-balanced sound profile, a slightly better boom microphone, and work wirelessly with both PS4 as well as PC, while the Turtle Beach only work wirelessly with PC. On the other hand, the Turtle Beach last longer off a single charge, and have a virtual soundstage feature.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 and the Sennheiser Game One Gaming Headset are both good gaming headsets, but the SteelSeries are more versatile thanks to their wireless support. The Sennheiser's mic has a much better recording quality, though, and their open-back design helps them sound more spacious. If you prefer the freedom of wireless gaming the Arctis 7 will be better for you but the Sennheiser are a good option for those who prefer a wired connection.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 is a better gaming headset than the LucidSound LS31 Wireless. The SteelSeries beats the LucidSound in pretty much every category, other than wireless range, but only by a few feet when the source is obstructed by walls, which should rarely happen when gaming.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are better wireless headphones than the Logitech G933 Wireless. Their build quality is better, they leak less sound, and their battery is much better. The Arctis also sound much better than the G933 and have a superior microphone. That said, the Logitech G933 have three mappable buttons on the cups that can be programmed in the Logitech Gaming Software to trigger specific commands, which is a great feature. If you prefer gaming headphones that have better performance out-of-the-box, get the SteelSeries, but if you prefer to spend time deeply customizing your headset to perfection, consider the Logitech.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are slightly better wireless gaming headphones than the HyperX Cloud Flight. The SteelSeries feel better built and more premium. Their companion software also offers many more customization options, including a graphic EQ and presets. On the other hand, the HyperX have a USB dongle, which some users may prefer.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 and the SteelSeries Arctis Pro GameDAC are similarly designed headphones, but one of their main differences is that the Arctis 7 are wireless while the Pro GameDAC aren't. The GameDAC also offers a lot of customization features within easy reach, including a built-in graphic EQ, and it has many connectivity options. Some gamers may prefer the wireless connectivity of the Arctis 7 though, and its 24-hour battery life is great for long gaming sessions. However, they lack a charging dock.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 is a slightly better gaming headset than the Plantronics RIG 800LX Wireless. The SteelSeries have a better performing boom mic, a companion app with a graphic EQ and presets, and it's compatible with PC, PS4, and Xbox One via an analog connection. However, the Plantronics perform more consistently across reseats and users.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are slightly better wireless gaming headphones than the Astro A20 Wireless. The Arctis 7 are a bit more comfortable, feel better-built and more stable, have a better-balanced sound profile, a better microphone, a longer battery life, and can be used wired. On the other hand, the A20 have better controls, are much more consistent among different users, and have a wider and more open soundstage.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are much better gaming headphones than the Turtle Beach Stealth 600. The SteelSeries have more connectivity options, which make them more versatile for not only use with different consoles but mobile devices, too. They're also better-built, have more customization options, and a much better boom mic. The Turtle Beach are less heavy, but the Steelseries are otherwise better in nearly every respect.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are a better gaming headset than the Logitech G930 Wireless. The G930 are slightly more customizable thanks to the Logitech Gaming Software and programmable buttons on the ear cups. On the other hand, the SteelSeries have a much better build quality with better breathable pads and a more ergonomic layout for their buttons. They also have a better default sound quality and more connection options, so they're a bit more suitable for home theater. They have a casual design you can use outdoors with the provided audio cable, unlike the G930.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 and the Logitech G533 Wireless are both good gaming headphones, but the SteelSeries are a bit more versatile since they can also be used wired. They also feel more durable, have a better microphone, and longer battery life, but the Logitech are more customizable with the Logitech G HUB software.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are slightly better gaming headphones than the Astro A50 Gen 3. While the SteelSeries aren’t as comfortable as the Astro, and their dock doesn't support charging, they can be used wired and are more versatile. The recording quality of the SteelSeries microphone is also noticeably better. On the other hand, the Astro have a better default sound profile, but you always need their dock to use them, which is restrictive. The SteelSeries are also cheaper and will have a better value for most.
We've upgraded our Headphones Test Bench to 2.0! This update brings several key changes to our tests and usages, making it easier than ever to interpret our sound results based on your personal preferences. You'll also find a brand-new interactive graph tool featuring multiple targets (including our own!) for you to explore and compare.
For a full breakdown, check out our changelog, which includes detailed commentary from our test designer explaining the rationale behind our update.
We'd also love to hear your thoughts: your feedback helps us keep improving, so join us in the comments!
Test Results
Unlike bulkier gaming headphones such as the HyperX Cloud Flight, the SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 have an understated, sleek look. The unique ski-band headband may turn heads but these headphones still look fairly casual as the boom microphone is retractable. If you prefer a more colorful style, you can purchase more vibrant headband straps from the SteelSeries website.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 are comfortable gaming headphones. They have spacious ear cups with soft, breathable padding. The distinct ski-band headband design is adjustable too, although its length might not be enough to fit larger heads and could feel a bit tight for some. If you need more room for your ears, the upgraded SteelSeries Arctis 7 2019 Edition Wireless have thicker, deeper pads.
The control scheme is okay. There are two sets of physical buttons on both ear cups. There's a channel mixing wheel and on/off button on the left ear cup while the right ear cup has a volume wheel and disable mic button. On the downside, the controls lack versatility outside of gaming use as they don't have call management or music controls.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 are reasonably breathable. Their over-ear and closed-back ear cups hold in some heat and aren't very suitable for intense physical activity. However, if you're casually gaming or listening to music, you shouldn't sweat too much, although you may notice a change in temperature.
Like many gaming headphones such as the Logitech G Pro Gaming Headset, these headphones aren't very portable. Their rigid headband can't be folded to save space, and unlike its successor, the SteelSeries Arctis 7 2019 Edition Wireless, the ear cups don't swivel to lay flat. They also have to be used within its USB transmitter's range to be used wirelessly which can limit their portability.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 don't have a carrying case or pouch.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 have a great build quality. They're sturdy and feel durable enough to survive multiple drops or impacts without getting too damaged. The metal headband is decently flexible too and the malleable boom microphone can be retracted into the headset.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 have good stability. Their tight fit keeps them from moving too much on your head while their wireless design reduces the chances of your headphones getting yanked off your head by a hooked audio cable. These headphones are bulky though and aren't suitable for more intense physical activity. However, they should be stable enough for a light jog.
- SteelSeries Arctis 7 headphones
- USB transmitter
- Micro-USB charging cable
- Audio cable
- Manuals
The sound profile of these headphones depends on their fit, position, and seal as they all can all affect sound reproduction, and result in inconsistent bass and treble delivery. If you take time to adjust the elastic ski-band headband to get a good fit, their sound profile is well-balanced and suitable for most audio genres. A slight emphasis on bass is good for explosions and gunshots.
The frequency response consistency of the SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 is disappointing. Bass delivery varies and a drop in bass can occur if the ear cups are not flush to your head. There are inconsistencies from mid-mid into the treble range. However, once you achieve a good fit and seal, you'll get the same sound each time you use these headphones.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 have a great bass accuracy but its delivery can vary across users. Although there's a slight dip in the low bass that can reduce thump and rumbles, it shouldn't be too noticeable. The bump in the mid and high-bass, in comparison brings punch but also slight boominess to your mixes. As the bass delivery is sensitive to fit, positioning, and seal as well as whether you wear glasses or have thick hair, this bass accuracy performance represents the average response and your experience may vary.
These headphones have great mid accuracy. Although there's still a bit of an overemphasis in the low-mid that makes mixes sound a bit muddy and cluttered, the rest of the mid range is relatively smooth.
The treble accuracy is outstanding but its delivery can vary across users. While there are some small dips across the range that could darken or veil vocals and lead instruments, it shouldn't be too noticeable. However, this treble accuracy performance represents the average response and your experience may vary.
The peaks and dips performance of these headphones is very good. There are relatively few peaks and for the most part, they aren't very high. There's a peak that starts in the mid-bass and extends to the low-mid which can muddy or clutter your mix. There's also a tiny peak between the high-mid to low-treble that can add a touch of harshness. The dips in comparison are relatively shallow, although the dip in the low treble can lower clarity.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 have great imaging. The group delay response is fairly low and it falls below the audibility threshold, which should result in a tight bass and a transparent treble production. The L/R drivers of our unit are fairly well-matched in amplitude, frequency, and phase response, ensuring accurate placement and localization of objects such as voice, instruments, and footsteps in the stereo image. However, these results are only valid for our unit, and yours may perform differently.
The soundstage is mediocre. Although the soundstage may be perceived as large, it also feels a bit unnatural and as if coming from inside the head. These headphones are also closed-back so they won't sound as open as open-back headphones.
The weighted harmonic distortion performance of the Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 is very good. Its frequencies fall within good limits, which should result in clear and pure audio reproduction.
The noise isolation performance is poor. They let in all bass range sounds like bus and plane engines. While they do a better job of reducing mid-range noise such as chatter, they still let in a lot of sound and may not be suited for an office setting. However, these headphones can significantly reduce sibilants such as S and T sounds in the treble range.
The leakage performance of the SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 is decent. Most of the leakage is concentrated between the low-mid to low-treble and sounds fuller than in-ear headphones. However, the level of leakage isn't too high and unless you're blasting your music in a quiet place, it shouldn't be too much of a concern.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 headset has a retractable boom microphone.
This microphone has a very good recording quality. Voices recorded sound full, clear, and detailed. However, the mic sounds noticeably bright while lacking airiness and brilliance. If you're looking for gaming headphones with a better sounding mic, try out the Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless.
The Arctis 7 Wireless 2017's microphone has outstanding noise handling and can separate speech from ambient noise, even in loud environments like gaming tournaments.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 have an impressive battery performance. Their 24 hours of continuous battery life is great for long gaming sessions while their auto-off timer can help you save battery life. On the downside, they do take a while to charge but you can use them passively with an audio jack if the battery dies, which can be a lifesaver if you're unable to put down your game.
SteelSeries Engine is a great and easy-to-use companion software that offers a lot of customization on one page such as a graphic EQ with presets, DTS surround sound, and volume control. You can even save your configurations so that you can switch between them if you need. If you like to have control over settings like RGB lighting, check out the Razer Nari Ultimate.
These headphones don't have Bluetooth connectivity. If you're looking for a gaming headset that supports Bluetooth, try the SteelSeries Arctis 3 2019 Edition Wireless, the SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless, or the LucidSound LS31 Wireless.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 have excellent non-Bluetooth wireless connectivity. While their line of sight range is okay, their latency is quite low and shouldn't impact your gaming or video watching.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless uses a proprietary audio cable. It's not OS-specific and is compatible with most consoles. If you prefer a more wired gaming experience with more control options, check out the SteelSeries Arctis Pro GameDAC.
These headphones are compatible with PC and PS4 via a USB transmitter. You can also plug in the audio cord directly into the PS4 controller or with your PS4. For both devices and connections, you'll be able to receive audio and use the microphone.
The SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless 2017 can only be used on the Xbox One with their audio cord plugged into the controller. You'll be able to receive audio as well as use the microphone.
The base/dock is a wireless USB dongle that has a line in and a line out. It doesn't offer dock charging and it's only compatible with PC and the PS4. Xbox One users can only use these headphones when plugged into the controller.