SteelSeries Arctis 5 Gaming Headset
Best comfortable audio for dedicated PC gamers.
The SteelSeries Arctis 5 is an over-ear gaming headset designed for PC and PlayStation 4. It features DTS Headphone:X v2.0 surround sound for immersive audio and a retractable boom microphone for clear communication. The headset offers a comfortable fit for extended gaming sessions and a wired connection for reliable performance. Its RGB illumination adds a customizable aesthetic to your gaming setup.
$98.99
More Arctis Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.3
/ 5
Category Rank
499
/ 1491
#499 in Audio Headsets
Price vs Category Average
-36%
Below average
Type
Gaming Headset
/ Gaming Headset
Who it's for
- Team players needing reliable, crisp in-game voice chat
- Dedicated gamers who play for many hours consecutively
- PC gamers who frequently communicate with teammates
Who should skip it
- Users who prefer standard, easily replaceable cables
- Audiophiles or users prioritizing music quality over gaming features
- Console gamers desiring full aesthetic customization
Key Specs
Type
Gaming Headset
Compatibility
PC and PlayStation 4
Surround Sound
DTS Headphone:X v2.0
Microphone Type
Retractable Boom Microphone
Connection Type
Wired, 3.5mm Jack, USB
Earcups
Exclusive AirWeave
Controls
USB ChatMix Dial, On-Ear Audio Controls
Software
SteelSeries Engine 3
Features
- DTS Headphone:X v2.0 Surround Sound
- Retractable ClearCast Microphone
- RGB Illumination
- Comfortable Over-Ear Design
- Wired Connectivity
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the SteelSeries Arctis 5 for its exceptional comfort, largely attributed to the unique ski goggle headband design that ensures a snug yet pressure free fit during extended gaming sessions. The audio experience is frequently highlighted as a strong point, delivering clear, immersive sound with precise directional cues crucial for competitive play. While the overall build feels solid, a few users have noted occasional software quirks or connection issues over time. Despite these minor points, the headset generally offers a compelling blend of ergonomic design and strong audio performance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking a comfortable and sonically capable peripheral.
Know before you buy
The Arctis 5 is officially designed for PC and PlayStation 4. While it uses a wired connection, full functionality—including the ChatMix dial—is optimized for these specific platforms.
The ChatMix dial allows you to physically adjust the balance between your game audio and your voice chat volume on the fly. This means you can quickly turn down the game volume to hear teammates more clearly without needing to tab out of your game.
The ClearCast microphone is retractable, meaning it slides directly into the left earcup when not in use. This keeps the mic protected and out of your way during solo gaming or media consumption.
Yes, the headset uses SteelSeries' exclusive AirWeave fabric, which is designed to be breathable and moisture-wicking. This helps keep your ears cool and comfortable even during extended periods of wear.
To customize the RGB illumination and enable the DTS Headphone:X v2.0 surround sound, you will need to install the SteelSeries Engine 3 software on your PC. The headset will function as a standard audio device without the software, but you will lose access to these advanced features.
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