SteelSeries Arctis 5 Gaming Headset
Best comfortable audio for dedicated gamers.
The SteelSeries Arctis 5 is a wired gaming headset designed for PC, offering a comfortable over-ear fit and impressive audio quality with features like 7.1 virtual surround sound. Its ClearCast microphone ensures clear communication, and it includes convenient controls like volume adjustment and microphone mute. While primarily for PC, it offers some functionality with Xbox One. The headset boasts a stylish black design and a foldable form factor for easier storage.
$36.90
More Arctis Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
133
/ 1491
#133 in Audio Headsets
Price vs Category Average
-76%
Below average
Weight
9.9
/ Ounces
Who it's for
- Competitive gamers seeking a tactical advantage in audio cues
- Multiplayer gamers prioritizing clear, uninterrupted communication with teammates
- Dedicated gamers who wear headsets for many hours daily
Who should skip it
- Console gamers or users preferring simple plug-and-play functionality
- Tech-conscious users expecting current connectivity standards
- Console-exclusive players who desire all features across platforms
Key Specs
Weight
9.9 Ounces
Connectivity
Wired
Form Factor
Headband
Microphone Type
Clearcast Mic
Cable Length
3 m / 10 ft
Type
Ear-Cup (Over the Ear)
Year Manufactured
2016
Color
Black
Features
- Exceptional comfort for long gaming sessions
- ClearComm Clearcast microphone for team chat
- Immersive 7.1 virtual surround sound
- Convenient on-ear controls
- Adjustable headband for a perfect fit
- Foldable design for portability
- Noise cancellation for focused audio
What customers say
Customers consistently laud the SteelSeries Arctis 5 for its outstanding comfort, a primary draw for extended gaming sessions. The unique ski goggle suspension headband design receives widespread acclaim for its pressure free fit, making it a top choice for wearability. Users also frequently praise the immersive sound quality, noting clear audio and effective positional cues that enhance the gaming experience. While minor points occasionally arise regarding software or cable management, the headset's strong performance in comfort and audio fidelity solidifies its positive reception among gamers seeking a reliable and enjoyable experience.
Know before you buy
The Arctis 5 is primarily engineered for PC gaming. While it offers some functionality with the Xbox One, it is not fully optimized for console use, so you may experience limitations compared to a dedicated console headset.
The headset features noise-canceling technology for the microphone, which helps isolate your voice from background chatter during team play. The ear cups themselves provide passive noise isolation, though they do not feature active noise cancellation (ANC) for blocking out external environmental sounds.
The headset comes with a 3-meter (10-foot) cable. This length is generous enough to comfortably reach your PC tower even if it is positioned under your desk or further away from your seating area.
The ClearCast microphone is retractable, meaning it slides directly into the left ear cup when not in use. This design keeps the mic out of your way and protects it during storage or travel.
Yes, the Arctis 5 includes an on-ear control dial that allows you to adjust your volume and mute the microphone quickly. It also utilizes a ChatMix dial that lets you balance the audio levels between your game sound and your team chat on the fly.
The Arctis 5 is designed with soft, breathable ear cushions that are generally accommodating for glasses wearers. The adjustable headband helps distribute weight evenly, reducing the pressure points that often cause discomfort during long gaming sessions.
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