SteelSeries is refreshing one of its more affordable gaming headsets by giving the Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gen 2 40% more battery life, among other things. The new version should offer a runtime of 54 hours on a full charge when connected via the USB-C dongle, or up to 42 hours when using Bluetooth.
The combination of the USB-C dongle and Bluetooth means the headphones should be compatible with most modern devices. In addition to smartphones, PCs and Macs, the headset can also be used with the Nintendo Switch 1 and Switch 2 as well as the Sony PlayStation 4, PS5 as well as Meta Quest 2 and Quest 3. However, Xbox gamers have to purchase a special Xbox version in order to use the Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gen 2 with their Series X/S. In any case, these gaming headphones feature dynamic 40mm drivers that support spatial 360-degree audio.
Another noteworthy feature is the equalizer in the corresponding smartphone app, which includes specific profiles for hundreds of games. Users can also adjust the balance between chat, music and game sound. The microphone is designed to reduce distracting ambient noise, and users can also adjust the voice using an equalizer. Meanwhile, buttons and two rotary controls on the headset allow users to mute the microphone and adjust the sound balance. Unlike the more expensive products from the Nova series, the Nova 7 Gen 2 does not feature active noise cancellation (ANC).
Price and availability
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gen 2 gaming headset is now available at the official SteelSeries online store for $199. Color choices include white, black and pink.