SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Score: 85/100
Corsair Virtuoso MAX with ANC
Score: 86/100Rankings
The Virtuoso MAX Wireless is a premium over-ear headset featuring graphene drivers, ANC and long-lasting battery life. Its heft and the need for EQ tuning temper the otherwise strong feature set. Ideal for competitive gamers and streamers who value immersive audio and multi-device flexibility.
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless delivers premium 40 mm drivers, active noise cancellation, 7.1 surround and dual hot-swappable batteries for up to 22 hours of play. Its lack of RGB lighting, bulkier design, and higher price make it less suited for those seeking lightweight or aesthetic features. Targeted at competitive and professional gamers who value high-end audio and wireless versatility.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
40 mm | 50 mmbest | |
20 hours | 30 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 516 g | 417 gbest |
38 Ωbest | 32 Ω | |
93 dB | 116 dBbest | |
-38 dBbest | -40 dB | |
| ↓ lower better | 120 minbest | — |
1 years | 2 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(1) | ||
Connection Type | Wireless 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, 3.5mm analog | 2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth, USB-C |
Audio(6) | ||
Driver Size (mm) | 40 mm | 50 mm |
Frequency Response (Hz) | 10-22000 Hz | 20-40000 Hz |
Impedance (Ω) | 38 Ω | 32 Ω |
Sensitivity (dB) | 93 dB | 116 dB |
Microphone Type | Bidirectional, retractable ClearCast Gen 2 | Omni-directional, detachable, broadcast-grade |
Microphone Sensitivity (dB) | -38 dB | -40 dB |
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Life (hours) | 20 hours | 30 hours |
General(2) | ||
Warranty (years) | 1 years | 2 years |
Compatible Platforms | PC,PlayStation 5/4,Switch,Mobile | PC, Mac, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 516 g | 417 g |
Headband Material | Suspended steel-reinforced | Aluminum |
Lighting(1) | ||
RGB Lighting | false | true |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless for its versatile dual-battery system, low-latency multi-platform connectivity, and advanced audio features such as ANC, parametric EQ and 360° spatial sound. Build quality and comfort are highlighted as strong points, while the lack of water resistance, bulky form factor and the reduced wireless frequency range are noted as drawbacks.
Professional reviewers praise the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless for its versatile dual-battery system, low-latency multi-platform connectivity, and advanced audio features such as ANC, parametric EQ and 360° spatial sound. Build quality and comfort are highlighted as strong points, while the lack of water resistance, bulky form factor and the reduced wireless frequency range are noted as drawbacks.
Choose Virtuoso MAX if ANC and battery endurance are top priorities; choose Arctis Nova Pro for lighter weight and plug-and-play sound.
Professional reviewers commend the Virtuoso MAX for its rich graphene-driver sound, powerful ANC, and extensive feature set including Dolby Atmos and iCUE customization. However, they note that the out-of-the-box tuning is flat, requiring EQ work, and that the headset's weight and comfort are not as refined as some competitors.
Everyday users appreciate the long battery life, reliable wireless range, clear mic, and immersive ANC, often calling it an upgrade over prior models. Recurring complaints focus on the slightly less plush padding, the headset's heft, the need for EQ to achieve optimal sound, and confusion over the advertised battery duration.
