Earbuds / Compare

Nothing Ear (3) vs SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds

A

Product A: Nothing

Ear (3)

95 of 166 known

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B

Product B: SteelSeries

Arctis GameBuds

78 of 166 known

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All 166 fields

Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

ANothing Ear (3)

BSteelSeries Arctis GameBuds

General

7 of 8 differ

Series

Ear2Press articlesoundguys.com/nothing-ear-3-launches-with-a-special-super-mic-up-its-sleeve-144338Read 30 September 2026Nothing's fourth flagship earbuds after Ear (1), Ear (2) and Ear

Arctis1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Exact model heading establishes the Arctis family.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

B173, B173R, B173L, B173C3Reviewsoundguys.com/nothing-ear-3-review-144486Read 30 September 2026Model number B17310Owner's manuald.otto.de/files/a43ba334-6eca-54b3-8512-5edd62424088.pdfRead 30 September 2026Front cover B173. Regulatory section HVIN B173R/B173L/B173C for earbuds and case.

61706, 61707, 61708, 61709, 61714, 61715, 61716, 61717, 61680, 61681, 61682, 61683, 61710, 61711, 61712, 61713, HS35R, HS35L, HS35TX, HS35C, HS35TXX1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026US structured Product data and embedded colour/platform variation list. Retail SKUs 61706-61709 and 61714-61717.9Maker product pagesteelseries.com/de-de/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026European structured Product data and embedded variation list.13Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_gamebuds_digi_pig_en_us_web.pdfRead 7 October 2026Regulatory hardware models: right HS35R, left HS35L, PS transceiver HS35TX, case HS35C. Retail SKUs retained from each maker colour/platform page.15Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/arctis_gamebuds_x_digipig_en_us_web.pdfRead 30 September 2026Xbox manual regulatory section: Xbox transceiver HS35TXX. Shared left/right buds HS35L/HS35R and case HS35C.

GTIN / EAN

6974434226791, 697443422678412Retailer paged.otto.de/files/55d6413c-1574-5555-87e8-974bc4bfc77f.pdfRead 30 September 2026One-page exact Ear3 branded factsheet, EAN-Codes box: 6974434226784 black and 6974434226791 white. Identifier labels establish EAN, independent of store sku/checksum.13Retailer pageboulanger.scene7.com/is/content/Boulanger/6974434226784_f_0Read 30 September 2026CODES EAN box explicitly identifies white 6974434226791 and black6974434226784.

5707119062640, 810164140098, 5707119062664, 810164140104, 5707119062688, 810164140111, 5707119062701, 810164140128, 5707119069304, 810164144386, 5707119069328, 810164144393, 5707119069342, 810164144409, 5707119069366, 810164144416, 5707119057226, 810052987132, 5707119058261, 8100529878731Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Black PS US: EAN 5707119062640, UPC 8101641400982Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026Black Xbox US: EAN 5707119062664, UPC 8101641401043Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026EAN 5707119062688, UPC 8101641401114Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026EAN 5707119062701, UPC 810164140128. Listed as not orderable5Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026EAN 5707119069304, UPC 810164144386. Launch date 2026-09-01 in store data6Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026EAN 5707119069328, UPC 810164144393. Launch date 2026-09-01 in store data7Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026EAN 5707119069342, UPC 8101641444098Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026EAN 5707119069366, UPC 8101641444169Maker product pagesteelseries.com/de-de/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026Black PS EU: EAN 5707119057226, UPC 81005298713210Maker product pagesteelseries.com/de-de/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026Black Xbox EU: EAN 5707119058261, UPC 810052987873

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

18 September 20252Press articlesoundguys.com/nothing-ear-3-launches-with-a-special-super-mic-up-its-sleeve-144338Read 30 September 2026Dated launch coverage: global pre-orders from 18 September 2025 and open sales from 25 September 2025.

26 September 202412Press releasesteelseries.com/press/148-steelseries-sets-new-benchmark-for-earbuds-with-the-introduction-of-arctisRead 30 September 2026Dated opening announcement: September 26, 2024. Footer has a conflicting September 20 dateline, opening and preorder date preferred.

Status

Available1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026The US store variant is available for sale.5Press releasepresseportal.de/pm/157514/6133465Read 30 September 2026Maker release carried by Presseportal explicitly announces availability in Germany.

Available1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026In stock at the US store

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Nothing Ear4Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/nothing/ear-3-in-earRead 30 September 2026RTINGS says the Nothing Ear (3) replaces the Nothing Ear.14Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/nothing/ear-truly-wirelessRead 23 October 2026RTINGS calls the Nothing Ear (3) the successor to the Nothing Ear.

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$1799Press releasestorage.mfn.se/ecc8b2bd-0396-40b3-92b7-0fbcf1699e1a/audiodo-powers-nothing-ear-3-with-personal-sound-an-essential-experience-for-all-listeners.pdfRead 30 September 2026Original launch-day release from the Audiodo technology partner, September 18, 2025, page 1: $179 / €179 / £179, available September 25.

$159.9912Press releasesteelseries.com/press/148-steelseries-sets-new-benchmark-for-earbuds-with-the-introduction-of-arctisRead 30 September 2026Availability paragraph: North American original MSRP $159.99.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

€1795Press releasepresseportal.de/pm/157514/6133465Read 30 September 2026Nothing manufacturer release, Pricing and Availability: €179 DE/AT at initial local availability October 8, 2025.

€169.9912Press releasesteelseries.com/press/148-steelseries-sets-new-benchmark-for-earbuds-with-the-introduction-of-arctisRead 30 September 2026Availability paragraph: EMEA original MSRP €169.99.

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US, DE1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026The US store sells the product in USD.5Press releasepresseportal.de/pm/157514/6133465Read 30 September 2026Maker release carried by Presseportal explicitly gives Germany availability and EUR pricing.

US, EU1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026US regional maker product heading.9Maker product pagesteelseries.com/de-de/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026German/EU regional maker purchase page. EU priced SKU rows documented in variant verification.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

White, Black1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Maker product data lists the colour options Black and White.

Black, White, Glorange, Yuzu, Matcha1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Exact parent product variation attributes Color values Black/White/Glorange/Yuzu/Matcha. Platform-specific purchase rows checked separately.

Segment

Not available

Gaming1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Store category Gaming In-Ear

Design

2 of 4 differ

Form factoriIn-ear seals the ear canal with a tip. Semi-in-ear rests in the outer ear without a seal. Open-ear leaves the ear canal unobstructed.

In-ear4Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/nothing/ear-3-in-earRead 30 September 2026Type: In-ear, Enclosure: Closed-Back

In-ear11Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/steelseries/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026Type: In-ear

Bud shapeiStem describes an extending control or microphone stalk. Stemless describes a compact body without a stalk.

Stem3Reviewsoundguys.com/nothing-ear-3-review-144486Read 30 September 2026Exact-model review describes the stem angle and pinch controls along the stems.

Stemless1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Product photos show stemless buds

Use one bud aloneiWhich earbud can operate alone. This does not mean two earbuds can play from different sources.

Either bud3Reviewsoundguys.com/nothing-ear-3-review-144486Read 30 September 2026Each earbud can function independently8Owner's manualsupport.nothing.tech/hc/en-us/sections/38937892085265-Product-FeatureRead 30 September 2026Can I use just one earbud FAQ: either can be used alone after the pair has been paired together.

Not available

RGB lighting

Not available

Not available

Drivers and sound

11 of 17 differ

Drivers per budiAudio transducers in one earbud. Rows distinguish their type, acoustic role and published diameter. Do not count microphones.

ANothing Ear (3)

Type	Diameter (mm)	Count per earbud
Dynamic	12	1

Source1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Product text: PMI/TPU material upgraded 12 mm dynamic driver, singular. One driver per earbud.

BSteelSeries Arctis GameBuds

Type	Diameter (mm)	Count per earbud
Dynamic	6	1

Source16Reviewgamesradar.com/hardware/headsets-headphones/steelseries-arctis-gamebuds-reviewRead 30 September 2026Key Specs: 6 mm neodymium drivers. Performance paragraph explicitly says a pair of 6 mm drivers. One in each earbud. Neodymium is magnet material, not a transducer-type claim.17Reviewtechporn.ph/steelseries-arctis-gamebuds-reviewRead 7 October 2026Transducer table and specification paragraph explicitly identify dynamic technology. Existing 6 mm/count 1 from GamesRadar preserved.

Driver typeiPublished transducer technology. High-excursion, composite and neodymium do not by themselves establish a driver type.

Dynamic1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Product text: 12 mm dynamic driver.

Dynamic17Reviewtechporn.ph/steelseries-arctis-gamebuds-reviewRead 7 October 2026Technical Specifications paragraph expressly states dynamic drivers and Transducer table says Dynamic. Exact original GameBuds, not an inference from neodymium magnet. Public RTINGS comparison table corroborates Dynamic transducer.

Driver sizeiLargest explicitly published circular driver diameter in one earbud. A rectangular driver width is not a diameter.

12mm=CalculatedFrom Drivers per bud

6mm=CalculatedFrom Drivers per bud

Drivers per budiTotal audio transducers in one earbud, summed from explicit driver quantities. A row with an unknown quantity makes the total unknown.

1=CalculatedFrom Drivers per bud

1=CalculatedFrom Drivers per bud

Diaphragm material

PMI + TPU1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026The specs table separately labels the diaphragm PMI + TPU.

Not available

Frequency responseiPublished acoustic frequency response of the earbuds. Codec transmission bandwidth alone does not qualify. Conditions belong in the source note.

Min20 HzMax40 kHz1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 202620 Hz - 40 kHz

Min20 HzMax20 kHz1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Audio specifications: headphone frequency response 20 to 20,000 Hz.

Impedance

32Ω1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 202612 mm dynamic / 32 ohm

Not available

SensitivityiPublished acoustic sensitivity. The electrical reference and frequency must be stated in sensitivity_reference or the source note.

Not available

Not available

Sensitivity reference

Not available

Not available

Max sample rateiHighest supported audio sample rate under the codec and source-device conditions in the source note. This does not establish lossless playback.

96kHz3Reviewsoundguys.com/nothing-ear-3-review-144486Read 30 September 2026LDAC up to 990 kbps 24 bit/96 kHz

Not available

Max bit depthiHighest supported audio bit depth under the codec and source-device conditions in the source note. Bluetooth version alone does not establish this.

24bits1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 202624-Bit Hi-Res LDAC Audio

Not available

Adaptive EQiAn inner mic tunes the sound to your ear in real time

Not available

Not available

Personalised soundiA profile from a hearing test or ear scan

Yes1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 20268Owner's manualsupport.nothing.tech/hc/en-us/sections/38937892085265-Product-FeatureRead 30 September 2026Personal Sound Profile FAQ: hearing assessment creates personalized compensation profile.

Not available

Onboard EQ

Not available

Yes18Reviewhifioasis.com/reviews/steelseries-arctis-gamebuds-reviewRead 7 October 2026SteelSeries GG and Sonar section explicitly says profiles applied for both 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth are saved to GameBuds and remain when moved to different devices. Engine hardware EQ, not Sonar host-only processing. Reviewed white PlayStation edition. Maker separate gaming/mobile saved presets corroborates.

Custom EQ bandsiNumber of independently adjustable custom equalizer frequency bands. Availability may require current firmware, an app or a compatible device.

81Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 20268Owner's manualsupport.nothing.tech/hc/en-us/sections/38937892085265-Product-FeatureRead 30 September 2026Personal Sound Profile FAQ explicitly states an 8-band equalizer.

1018Reviewhifioasis.com/reviews/steelseries-arctis-gamebuds-reviewRead 7 October 2026Same section explicitly says 10-band PEQ. Exact PCTuning review independently states EQ with 10 adjustable frequencies, PC app required for custom creation. No count borrowed from another Arctis model or Sonar bus.25Reviewpctuning.cz/article/konecne-tws-pecky-na-hrani-recenze-sluchatek-steelseries-arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Exact GameBuds software paragraph explicitly EQ with 10 adjustable frequencies, only in PC app. Independent corroboration of HiFi Oasis 10-band hardware-EQ profile description. Sonar host processing remains distinct.

EQ presetsiNamed equalizer sound presets. Noise-control modes and spatial-audio modes are separate features.

Balanced, Bass, Treble, Voice8Owner's manualsupport.nothing.tech/hc/en-us/sections/38937892085265-Product-FeatureRead 30 September 2026Equaliser settings FAQ: Balanced, Bass, Treble and Voice.

Flat, Deep Bass19Maker product pagesteelseries.com/blog/best-earbuds-for-the-gym-1237Read 7 October 2026Maker exact GameBuds blog explicitly says I use the Deep Bass preset. Flat is explicitly named by exact maker support article 31369371701389 as Engine EQ setting. Only verified literal preset names listed, not an invented exhaustive 300-name library.20Maker product pagesupport.steelseries.com/hc/en-us/articles/31369371701389-Why-is-the-audio-on-my-Arctis-GameBuds-distortedRead 7 October 2026Exact GameBuds support article says set Engine EQ to Flat when using Sonar, or set Sonar to Flat when using Engine/mobile EQ. Flat name verified as headset Engine preset, not a noise-control mode.

Volume limit

Not available

Not available

Spatial audio

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Spatial audioiNamed spatial or surround audio processing supported with the source and platform conditions stated in the source note.

Static Spatial Audio1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Music section: Static Spatial Audio creates a 3D soundscape.

360° Spatial Audio, Tempest 3D, Sonar Spatial, Microsoft Spatial1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Supported (incl. Tempest 3 D, Sonar Spatial). Microsoft Spatial appears only on the Xbox Matcha and Yuzu pages7Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026Supported (incl. Microsoft Spatial, Tempest 3 D, Sonar Spatial )

Head trackingiSpatial audio changes with head movement. Static spatial processing alone does not qualify. Compatible device or content requirements belong in the source note.

No11Reviewtechradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/nothing-ear-3-reviewRead 30 September 2026Features section explicitly says no head-tracked spatial audio, only Static or Off.

Not available

Noise cancelling

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Active noise cancelling

Yes1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Adaptive ANC checks the surroundings (600 ms) and monitors leakage automatically.

Yes1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Audio specifications: active noise cancellation, 4-microphone hybrid.

ANC typeiFeedforward uses exterior microphones. Feedback uses interior microphones. Hybrid uses both. Adaptive control is separate from microphone placement.

Not available

Hybrid1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Yes - 4 mic Hybrid

ANC microphones in both earbudsiPhysical microphones used by ANC across the pair. A shared call and ANC microphone counts once. Case microphones and vibration sensors are excluded.

Not available

41Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Yes - 4 mic Hybrid

Adaptive ANCiANC strength or calibration adjusts automatically to noise, fit or ear acoustics. The source note states the adjustment conditions.

Yes1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Adaptive ANC checks the surroundings (600 ms) and monitors leakage automatically.

Not available

ANC levelsiNumber of selectable ANC strength levels. Excludes ANC off, transparency and activity profiles unless they explicitly set distinct strength levels.

311Reviewtechradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/nothing-ear-3-reviewRead 30 September 2026Features section: High, Mid and Low fixed ANC strengths, plus Adaptive profile. Adaptive is not counted as a fixed strength.

311Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/steelseries/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026There are three strengths to choose from

ANC attenuation (claimed)iManufacturer maximum claimed noise attenuation. Frequency and measurement conditions belong in the source note. This is not reviewer-measured overall attenuation.

45dB1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Up to 45 dB, effective to 5000 Hz. Footnote: theoretical maximum from the Nothing lab

Not available

Transparency mode

Yes1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Transparency lets the world sound through.

Yes1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Audio specifications: Transparency Mode, Yes.

Adjustable transparency

Not available

Yes14Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-gamebuds-review-gaming-buds-that-do-it-all-126900Read 7 October 2026App section explicitly lists ANC and Transparency mode levels as adjustable settings. Exact Xbox 61707 sample firmware 1.2.0, app 2.0.0. Not the count of selectable ANC modes.

Automatic ANC and transparency blendiAutomatically blends active cancellation with ambient sound. Automatic activity-based switching between separate modes alone does not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Conversation detection

Not available

Not available

Wind noise reductioniA documented physical design or processing feature for reducing wind noise. The source note distinguishes mesh or shape changes from selectable processing.

Not available

Not available

Measured

6 of 23 differ

Frequency response notes (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Boosted bass, V-shaped4Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/nothing/ear-3-in-earRead 30 September 2026RTINGS: Boosted Bass signature, somewhat V-shaped

Balanced sound signature with slightly elevated bass and de-emphasized treble against the reviewer's target. Well-matched left and right drivers.11Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/steelseries/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026Our Verdict: Audio Reproduction Accuracy

Bass amount (measured)iDeviation from the review source target in the bass range. Positive means more bass. Target, test method and settings belong in the source note.

8dB4Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/nothing/ear-3-in-earRead 30 September 2026Very Emphasized (8 dB), RTINGS test bench 2.3

1dB11Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/steelseries/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026Public summary: Slightly Emphasized (1 dB). Test bench 2.3, Black (PS) unit. Full results are behind a paywall and were not read

Treble amount (measured)iDeviation from the review source target in the treble range. Positive means more treble. Values from different targets may not be directly comparable.

1dB4Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/nothing/ear-3-in-earRead 30 September 2026Slightly Emphasized (1 dB)

-1dB11Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/steelseries/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026Public summary: Balanced (-1 dB)

Deviation from target (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Consistency between fittings (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Harmonic distortion (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Sound leakage (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Noise isolation (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Noise isolation, best (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Passive isolation (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Call quality notes (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Speech is intelligible but slightly congested. The earbud microphones reject a broad range of background noise. The case Super Mic captures higher-fidelity audio when held near the mouth.4Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/nothing/ear-3-in-earRead 30 September 2026Public Microphone verdict paragraph distinguishes earbud mic results from case Super Mic, method 2.3. Detailed test settings are locked.

Speech sounds fairly natural and clear, if a little bright. The mic struggles to separate your voice from background noise with default settings.11Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/steelseries/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026Our Verdict: Microphone

Mic low-frequency extension (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic high-frequency extension (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic speech-to-noise ratio (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Latency (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth latency, worst (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

2.4 GHz latency, worst (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Latency in game mode (measured)iThe best case the buds can reach. Measured by a reviewer

Not available

Not available

Battery life (measured)iReviewer-tested operation from one full charge of the earbuds. Excludes case recharges. ANC, codec, connection, volume and tested edition belong in the row or source note.

ANothing Ear (3)

ANC	Hours (h)
Yes	5.2
Yes	5.3

Source3Reviewsoundguys.com/nothing-ear-3-review-144486Read 30 September 2026Battery paragraph: 5 h 12 min with ANC on, one charge. Source does not state codec.4Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/nothing/ear-3-in-earRead 30 September 2026Public Travel verdict explicitly says 5.3 h with ANC enabled. 5.2 h is the separate SoundGuys result.

BSteelSeries Arctis GameBuds

ANC	Hours (h)
No	8.53

Source14Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-gamebuds-review-gaming-buds-that-do-it-all-126900Read 7 October 2026Battery test: 8 h 32 min, PC 2.4 GHz connection, ANC off, medium volume. Tested Xbox model 61707. Single charge of earbuds, no case total.

Longest tested use per chargeiHighest earbuds-only duration among stored reviewer tests. Modes and settings may differ between tests and products.

5.3h=CalculatedFrom Battery life (measured)

8.53h=CalculatedFrom Battery life (measured)

Battery life with case (measured)iReviewer-tested total including earbuds and case recharges. Do not calculate this by multiplying one-charge runtime by claimed recharge count.

Not available

Not available

Full charge time (measured)iBuds in the case, 0 to 100 %. Measured by a reviewer

Not available

Not available

Weight per bud (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Microphones and calls

6 of 7 differ

Voice microphones in both earbudsiPhysical call and beamforming microphones across the pair. Excludes case microphones and vibration sensors. Shared ANC microphones can also count here when used for calls.

613Retailer pageboulanger.scene7.com/is/content/Boulanger/6974434226784_f_0Read 30 September 2026ANC/calls row: three MEMS voice microphones per side plus one VPU per side. Six voice microphones across the two earbuds, VPU sensors excluded.

Not available

All microphones in both earbudsiEvery physical microphone across the pair, including call and ANC microphones. Shared microphones count once. Excludes the charging case and voice vibration sensors.

61Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Microphone quantity (MEMS): 3 each side / 6 total. The VPU (1 each side) is listed separately. The case has 2 more MEMS mics (Super Mic)

Not available

Bone conduction voice sensoriA dedicated bone or jaw conduction sensor for detecting speech vibrations. A microphone or speech-detecting accelerometer alone does not prove this architecture.

Yes3Reviewsoundguys.com/nothing-ear-3-review-144486Read 30 September 2026Exact-model review identifies a bone-conduction VPU sensing micro-vibrations from the jaw and ear canal.

Not available

Mic noise reduction

AI1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026AI-powered Environmental Noise Cancellation for calls

Not available

Call audio bandwidthiHighest supported call-audio bandwidth. Compatible phone, operating system, call app or network requirements belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic mute controliAn earbud control that mutes the microphone during calls. Includes touch or pressure gestures and physical buttons. Phone/app-only controls do not qualify.

Not available

Yes1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026On-ear buttons let you mute

SidetoneiHear your own voice in calls

Not available

Yes21Reviewpctuning.cz/article/konecne-tws-pecky-na-hrani-recenze-sluchatek-steelseries-arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Software paragraph explicitly describes adjustable sidetone so wearer hears their own voice during calls/communications. Both Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz settings separately documented. Reviewer observed sidetone interfered with ANC in its sample, firmware not stated. No universal current-firmware incompatibility asserted.

Connectivity

12 of 18 differ

Chip

Not available

Not available

Connections

Bluetooth1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Feature and spec table: Bluetooth 5.4.

2.4 GHz, Bluetooth1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Wireless specifications: Quick Switch between 2.4 GHz gaming wireless and Bluetooth.

Bluetooth

5.41Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Feature and spec table: Bluetooth 5.4.

5.31Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Wireless specifications: Bluetooth 5.3.

Bluetooth codecs

SBC, AAC, LDAC1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Connectivity table: AAC, SBC, LDAC. LDAC high-resolution operation requires a supporting source.

SBC1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Wireless specifications: Bluetooth codec SBC.

Bluetooth profiles

Not available

Not available

LE Audio

No6Owner's manualsupport.nothing.tech/hc/en-us/articles/38937964269969-Does-Nothing-Ear-3-support-LE-AudioRead 30 September 2026Official product FAQ: LE Audio is not supported.

Not available

Auracast

Not available

Not available

MultipointiConcurrent Bluetooth connections to multiple source devices. Pairing memory and switching through a manufacturer account alone do not qualify.

Yes1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Feature and spec table: Dual Connection Yes.

No11Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/steelseries/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026The Bluetooth implementation lacks high-quality codecs, fast pairing, and multi-pairing

Multipoint devicesiMaximum source devices concurrently connected by Bluetooth, not the number remembered in pairing history.

21Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Dual connection: yes

122Reviewpcgamer.com/best-wireless-gaming-earbudsRead 7 October 2026Exact GameBuds section explicitly says can only connect to one Bluetooth device at a time. Maximum simultaneous Bluetooth source count 1, consistent with existing multipoint false. Pairing-list memory remains unknown.

Multipoint with LDACiMany buds turn multipoint off on LDAC

Not available

Not available

Paired devices rememberediMaximum remembered Bluetooth source pairings. This is separate from simultaneous multipoint connections.

67Owner's manualsupport.nothing.tech/hc/en-us/articles/38937876731025-How-many-devices-can-Ear-3-be-paired-withRead 30 September 2026Official FAQ: up to six paired devices remembered. Concurrent dual connection remains two.

Not available

Automatic switching between own devicesiThrough the maker's account

Not available

Not available

Fast pairing

Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Feature and spec table: Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair.

Not available

Audio sharingiShare one stream with a second pair

Not available

Not available

Wireless range (claimed)

10m1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Feature and spec table: 10 m range.

Not available

Wireless receiveri2.4 GHz dongle

Not available

Included1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Box contents: USB-C Wireless Nano-Dongle included.

Receiver connector

Not available

USB-C1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026USB-C Wireless Nano-Dongle, USB-C to USB-A adapter included

Simultaneous 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth audioiBoth connection types can play audio together. Quick switching between independent modes does not qualify.

Not available

No13Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_gamebuds_digi_pig_en_us_web.pdfRead 7 October 2026Quick-Switch Wireless p 7: modes used independently, triple tap switches between Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz.

Latency

3 of 3 differ

Low latency mode

Yes1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Feature and spec table: Low Lag.

Not available

Claimed latency

ANothing Ear (3)

Connection	Mode	Latency (ms)
Bluetooth	Game Mode with a Nothing phone	110

Source1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026As low as 110 ms paired with Nothing phone devices, Game Mode on

BSteelSeries Arctis GameBuds

Not available

Lowest claimed latency

110ms=CalculatedFrom Claimed latency

Not available

Compatibility

4 of 4 differ

PlatformsiPlatforms with documented audio support. App availability and advanced features can be more limited. Edition-specific support is listed in variants.

Android, iOS, Windows1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Performance section explicitly names Android, Windows and iOS.

Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, Windows, macOS, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, iOS, Android, Meta Quest1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 20262Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026Adds Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One to the PlayStation list24Maker product pagesteelseries.com/en-au/blog/introducing-arctis-gamebuds-1188Read 7 October 2026Maker exact Cross-Platform Wireless Adapter section explicitly includes Meta Quest for the 2.4 GHz USB-C adapter. Existing platforms preserved. Xbox dongle must use ordinary USB mode for non-Xbox devices.

Connection per platformiDocumented audio connection for each platform. USB-C phone routes require a compatible port. Platform edition and microphone restrictions belong in source notes or feature requirements.

ANothing Ear (3)

Not available

BSteelSeries Arctis GameBuds

Platform	Connection
PS5	2.4 GHz
Windows	2.4 GHz
Nintendo Switch	2.4 GHz
Nintendo Switch	Bluetooth
Nintendo Switch 2	2.4 GHz
Nintendo Switch 2	Bluetooth
iOS	2.4 GHz
iOS	Bluetooth
Android	2.4 GHz
Android	Bluetooth
macOS	2.4 GHz
PS4	2.4 GHz
Meta Quest	2.4 GHz

Source1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Current embedded compatibility table: Switch 2 and USB-C iPhone added alongside Bluetooth phone connections.13Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_gamebuds_digi_pig_en_us_web.pdfRead 7 October 2026Gaming Device Setup p 6: common PS/PC/Mac/Switch/Android dongle routes. Xbox connectivity requires the Xbox edition. Phone USB-C routes require compatible USB-C port. newer Switch 2 from current store compatibility.24Maker product pagesteelseries.com/en-au/blog/introducing-arctis-gamebuds-1188Read 7 October 2026Added Meta Quest 2.4 GHz row from exact maker adapter compatibility list. Microphone operation is unproved for this row and omitted.27Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-gamebuds-review-gaming-buds-that-do-it-all-126900Read 7 October 2026Exact GameBuds connection paragraph independently lists Meta Quest among devices supported through included 2.4 GHz USB-C dongle. Added Quest playback row only. No Quest microphone operation inferred. Xbox source pairing still requires Xbox edition.

Features that need a specific deviceiDevice, operating system, firmware, codec, content, account or region requirements for a named feature.

ANothing Ear (3)

Feature	Needs
Latency as low as 110 ms	Paired with Nothing phone devices, with Game Mode turned on
Essential Space	Select Nothing devices with the Essential Key
Talk to ChatGPT	Pair with a compatible Nothing phone and configure the control in the Nothing X app.
Find My and device renaming	Android 10 onwards
Super Mic with Dual Connection	Only one microphone system can be active at a time. Dual Connection can slow Super Mic activation. Super Mic is prioritized with Dual Connection off.
LDAC high-resolution playback	Connected source must support LDAC. AAC and SBC are the other supported Bluetooth codecs.

Source1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Technical specification footnotes 3-6 and 9-11: device-specific Game Mode, compatible app/OS controls, Essential Space devices and Dual Connection/Super Mic restrictions.

BSteelSeries Arctis GameBuds

Feature	Needs
ChatMix	Windows 10 and above (via GG/Sonar). PlayStation and Mac not supported.
Xbox wireless connection	Arctis GameBuds for Xbox edition with Xbox-compatible 2.4 GHz dongle. PlayStation edition has no Xbox wireless support.
USB-C phone connection	Compatible USB-C iPhone or Android device. Bluetooth also works with compatible phones.

Source1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 202612Press releasesteelseries.com/press/148-steelseries-sets-new-benchmark-for-earbuds-with-the-introduction-of-arctisRead 30 September 2026Wireless adapter paragraph: Xbox support requires Xbox edition.

Official licence

Not available

Designed for Xbox23Maker product pagenews.xbox.com/en-us/2024/12/03/designed-for-xbox-holiday-gift-guide-accessoriesRead 7 October 2026Microsoft Xbox official Designed for Xbox accessories guide, Audio Upgrades section explicitly lists SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds for Xbox. Licence applies only to Xbox edition, not PlayStation edition. Base list is union of known edition licences.26Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Exact Xbox-edition maker identity corroborates scope for licensing-authority family claim. This is Xbox platform edition only, no PlayStation licence asserted.

Battery and charging

8 of 13 differ

Battery per budiBattery cell capacity of one earbud. The source note states typical or rated capacity. Charging input current is not capacity.

55mAh1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Capacity table: 55 mAh per earbud.

Not available

User-replaceable earbud batteryiThe maker documents normal battery replacement by the user with its approved procedure and tools. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

Not available

Claimed battery lifeiManufacturer maximum runtime under the stated mode, codec and spatial processing state. Name the spatial or immersive processing mode and other conditions in source notes. Omit unspecified settings. with_case false means one charge of the earbuds. true means earbuds plus case recharges.

ANothing Ear (3)

Mode	Codec	Includes case recharges	Hours (h)
ANC off	AAC	No	10
ANC on	AAC	No	5.5
ANC off	AAC	Yes	38
ANC on	AAC	Yes	22
ANC off	LDAC	No	5.5
ANC on	LDAC	No	3.5
Call	Not available	No	5
Call	Not available	Yes	19

Source1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Embedded Battery table: AAC 10/5.5 h off/on, 38/22 h case-inclusive. LDAC 5.5/3.5 h off/on. Call 5 h earbuds/19 h case-inclusive are ANC off. ANC-on call 4/15.5 h cannot be distinguished by current call enum.

BSteelSeries Arctis GameBuds

Mode	Includes case recharges	Hours (h)
ANC off	No	10
ANC off	Yes	40

Source1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Embedded Power table: 10 h earbuds per charge, 40 h buds plus case. 2.4 GHz active, Bluetooth connected, ANC off, 100% volume. 90-minute full charging claim does not identify component.

Longest claimed use per chargeiHighest earbuds-only runtime among all stored modes. This can be ANC off, Hearing Aid, heart-rate or call use. Read the battery table and source conditions.

10h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

10h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Playback per charge with ANC (claimed)iHighest claimed earbuds-only playback with ANC enabled. Codec and spatial-audio conditions belong in the source note.

5.5h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Not available

Playback per charge without ANC (claimed)iHighest claimed earbuds-only playback with ANC disabled. Codec and volume conditions belong in the source note.

10h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

10h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Total with case (claimed)iHighest claimed runtime including the initial earbud charge and all case recharges. It is not the case recharge runtime alone.

38h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

40h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Total with case and ANC (claimed)iClaimed total playback with ANC, including the initial earbud charge and case recharges.

22h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Not available

Talk time (claimed)

5h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Not available

Full charge time, budsiTime to charge discharged earbuds to full in the case. Excludes charging the case itself or a combined buds-and-case result.

Not available

Not available

Charging guidanceiPublished charging guidance or estimates that do not separate earbuds and case. Preserve the maker’s component scope and limits. Do not assign an unspecified or combined estimate to a component-specific numeric field.

Not available

Not available

Quick charge timeiCharge duration corresponding to quick_charge_playback_h. Source note states earbuds-only or case-inclusive charging and playback settings.

5min1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Fast charging table: 5 minutes for 1 hour, earbuds only, ANC off. Contradictory footer wording is not used.

15min1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026USB-C Fast Charge: 15 mins for 3 hours use

Earbud playback after quick chargeiEarbuds-only runtime after quick_charge_min of charging. A claimed case-inclusive total does not qualify. ANC, codec and volume conditions belong in the source note.

1h1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Embedded fast-charge row: 5 minutes gives 1 hour earbuds-only with ANC off. 10 minutes gives 10 hours for buds plus case and is not an earbuds-only claim. Footer has an inconsistent 5-minute/10-hour sentence, table preferred.

3h1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Power specs: 15 min 3 h fast charge.

Charging case

3 of 10 differ

Case batteryiCharging-case battery cell capacity. The source note distinguishes typical, rated and output capacity. USB output capacity alone does not qualify.

500mAh1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Capacity table: Charging case 500 mAh.

700mAh13Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_gamebuds_digi_pig_en_us_web.pdfRead 7 October 2026Chinese regulatory charging-case table p 25: rated capacity 700 mAh, nominal 3.87 V. Earbud charging input 150 mA is not battery capacity.

User-replaceable case batteryiThe maker documents normal case battery replacement by the user with its approved procedure and tools. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

Not available

Case charging port

USB-C1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Battery section specifies USB-C charging.

USB-C1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Charge via the included USB-C cable

Case full charge timeiBy cable, 0 to 100 %. A time the maker gives with the earbuds inside the case counts, and the source note says so.

Not available

Not available

Wireless charging

Yes1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Battery section specifies built-in wireless charging.

Yes1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Power specs: Qi Wireless Charging Case Yes.

Wireless standardsiDocumented case charging standards or supported chargers. Magnetic alignment alone does not establish Qi2 certification.

Not available

Qi1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Power specs: Qi Wireless Charging Case Yes.

Wireless charging poweriHighest wireless charging input the maker states for the case. The output of a charging pad does not count.

2.5W3Reviewsoundguys.com/nothing-ear-3-review-144486Read 30 September 2026Case supports wireless charging at up to 2.5 W13Retailer pageboulanger.scene7.com/is/content/Boulanger/6974434226784_f_0Read 30 September 2026Autonomie/charging cell: wireless charging up to 2.5 W.

Not available

Speaker in caseiAn audio speaker physically in the charging case, for locating or status sounds. A microphone in the case is separate.

Not available

Not available

Screen on case

Not available

Not available

Case works as audio transmitteriCase relays external source audio through USB or an analog audio input. A case microphone for recording or calls does not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Controls

3 of 5 differ

ControlsiPressure is a force sensor that does not move, such as a stem you squeeze. Button is a key that moves when pressed.

Pressure1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Pinch sensor on the stem. The case has a Talk button for Super Mic

Button1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Product description: on-ear physical buttons control volume and mute.

Earbud volume controliHow earbud controls adjust volume, including a voice command if supported. Phone or app controls alone do not qualify.

Pressure1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Pinch and hold: volume up or down (customisable)

Buttons1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026On-ear buttons control volume. FAQ: double tap + hold for volume up and down

Gestures

Pinch, Double Pinch, Triple Pinch, Hold, Pinch and Hold1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Controls table lists pinch, double pinch, triple pinch, hold and pinch and hold.

Single press, Double press, Triple tap, Double tap + hold1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026FAQ wording. Single and double presses can be remapped. Triple tap and double tap + hold cannot

Remappable controls

Yes1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Controls table explicitly states the controls are customisable in Nothing X.

Yes1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Exact FAQ accepted answer: functions remappable mobile Arctis Companion/PC GG Engine. Triple tap/double tap hold excluded.

Voice assistant

Not available

Not available

Sensors and health

2 of 9 differ

In-ear detection

Yes1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Other features table lists In-ear Detection.

Yes1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026WearSense auto-pause can be turned off

Sensors

Not available

In-ear detection sensor (WearSense)1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Audio table explicitly names In-ear detection / sensor (auto pause/play), Yes, WearSense auto-pause can be turned off. No unproved optical/infrared/gyro sensor subtype added.26Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Exact Xbox Audio table identifies same WearSense in-ear detection sensor, auto-pause can be disabled. No optical/IR subtype inferred.

Heart rate sensor

Not available

Not available

Skin temperature sensingiA documented skin temperature sensor. This is separate from the operating temperature range or a heart-rate sensor.

Not available

Not available

Hearing aid featureiAmplification for mild to moderate hearing loss

Not available

Not available

Medical clearances

Not available

Not available

Hearing testiA documented hearing assessment feature, including consumer sound-personalization tests. Medical diagnostic clearance must be stated separately.

Yes8Owner's manualsupport.nothing.tech/hc/en-us/sections/38937892085265-Product-FeatureRead 30 September 2026Personal Sound Profile FAQ: brief hearing test creates personalized 8-band sound profile. Consumer sound-personalization test, not a clinical clearance.

Not available

Hearing protectioniLimits sudden loud sounds

Not available

Not available

Health features

Not available

Not available

Fit and durability

5 of 7 differ

Ear tips includediTip sizes supplied with the product, including the pair fitted to the earbuds. Do not list separately sold sizes as included.

XS, S, M, L10Owner's manuald.otto.de/files/a43ba334-6eca-54b3-8512-5edd62424088.pdfRead 30 September 2026Quick Start Guide fit page 1 explicitly illustrates XS/S/M/L tips. Medium fitted pair plus three spare pairs.

Small, Medium, Large1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Comfort section: Small, Medium and Large eartips included.

Ear tip materials

Silicone1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 20268Owner's manualsupport.nothing.tech/hc/en-us/sections/38937892085265-Product-FeatureRead 30 September 2026What is Ear3 made of FAQ: ear tips are silicone.

Silicone12Press releasesteelseries.com/press/148-steelseries-sets-new-benchmark-for-earbuds-with-the-introduction-of-arctisRead 30 September 2026Maker launch Ergonomic Comfort paragraph expressly silicone tips included.

StabilisersiPhysical stabilizing fittings or structures. Stability bands are separate from fins, wings and ear hooks.

None4Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/nothing/ear-3-in-earRead 30 September 2026No stabilizers or ear hooks

Not available

Ear tip fit test

Yes1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026App features table lists Ear Tips Fit Test.

Not available

Dust and water rating, buds

IP541Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Other features table specifies IP54 for earbuds and case.

IP551Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026AquaBarrier section: IP55 water, dust and splash resistance.

Dust and water rating, case

IP541Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Other features table specifies IP54 for earbuds and case.

Not available

Water resistance depth

Not available

Not available

Software

2 of 6 differ

Companion app

Nothing X1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Named companion app offers advanced 8-band EQ and profile control.

Arctis Companion App1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Arctis Companion App for iPhone (iOS 15.6+) and Android (Android 9+). SteelSeries GG covers Windows and Mac

App platforms

Android, iOS1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Custom controls footnote says Android 6+ and iOS 13+ use Nothing X.

iOS, Android1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Product feature list: Arctis Companion App for iOS and Android.

User firmware updates

Yes1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026App features table lists Firmware Updates.

Yes2Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 30 September 2026FAQ entry about updating the Xbox version from a PC

Finding network

Not available

Not available

Precision findingiUWB in the case

Not available

Not available

Live translation

Not available

Not available

Dimensions and weight

4 of 4 differ

Weight per budiMass of one earbud. Tip size and approximate values belong in the source note. Do not store pair or case-inclusive mass.

5.2g(0.2 oz)1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Earbud design spec row: Buds weight 5.2 g.

5.3g(0.2 oz)1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Product Weight: Buds 5.3 g (each)

Bud dimensionsiDimensions of one earbud on the explicitly identified width, height and depth axes. An unlabeled tuple cannot establish those axes.

Width21.5Height30.5Depth20.75mm(0.8 × 1.2 × 0.8 in)1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Buds dimensions: width 21.5 mm, height 30.5 mm, depth 20.75 mm

Not available

Case weightiCharging case mass excluding earbuds. Case-inclusive product mass does not qualify unless the source explicitly gives the empty-case figure.

Not available

48.7g(1.7 oz)1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Box Contents Product Weight explicitly separates Buds 5.3 g (each) from Case 48.7 g. This is the case alone, not buds-plus-case or retail package mass. Xbox table gives same separate case figure.26Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Fresh Xbox-edition maker serialized Box Contents table independently separates Buds 5.3 g (each), Case 48.7 g. Same case figure as PS5, no case-inclusive mass.

Case dimensionsiCharging-case width, height and depth on explicitly identified source axes. Report conflicting axis labels rather than reorder a tuple by appearance.

Width55.5Height55.5Depth22.25mm(2.2 × 2.2 × 0.9 in)1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Case dimensions: width 55.5 mm, height 55.5 mm, depth 22.25 mm. Buds and case weigh 71.4 g together, so case_weight_g is left out

Not available

Certifications

2 of 3 differ

Hi-Res AudioiThe Japan Audio Society logos. Hi-Res Audio Wireless is also written Hi-Res Wireless Audio.

Hi-Res Audio Wireless10Owner's manuald.otto.de/files/a43ba334-6eca-54b3-8512-5edd62424088.pdfRead 30 September 2026Trademarks and Permissions, English page 1: Hi-Res Audio Wireless logo used under Japan Audio Society license.

Not available

Communication certifications

Not available

Not available

FCC IDs

2AZEQ-B173R, 2AZEQ-B173L, 2AZEQ-B173C10Owner's manuald.otto.de/files/a43ba334-6eca-54b3-8512-5edd62424088.pdfRead 30 September 2026Regulatory section prints right/left/case FCC IDs.

ZHK-HS35R, ZHK-HS35L, ZHK-HS35TX, ZHK-HS35TXX13Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_gamebuds_digi_pig_en_us_web.pdfRead 7 October 2026Regulatory section p 14: right/left earbuds and PlayStation transceiver FCC IDs.15Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/arctis_gamebuds_x_digipig_en_us_web.pdfRead 30 September 2026Xbox transceiver FCC ID ZHK-HS35TXX. PlayStation transceiver ZHK-HS35TX. Each variant explicitly lists its edition-specific FCC IDs.

Other certifications

Not available

Qi (Qi ID: 22505)13Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_gamebuds_digi_pig_en_us_web.pdfRead 7 October 2026Printed regulatory page 15 displays Qi logo and Qi ID 22505. Exact Xbox guide gives same identifier. Maker-declared Qi registration, independent WPC database retrieval not verified. No stronger third-party re-verification claim.

In the box

2 of 2 differ

In the box

Earbuds x 2, Charging case x 1, Ear tips x 3 pairs, User guide, Safety and warranty information, USB-C to USB-C cable x 11Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Page lists these in capitals

Arctis GameBuds, Charging case, USB-C wireless 2.4 GHz dongle, USB-C female to USB-A male dongle adapter, USB-C to USB-C charging cable (0.3 m), S/M/L ear tips13Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_gamebuds_digi_pig_en_us_web.pdfRead 7 October 2026General p 3 and Accessories p 5: USB-C-to-C charging cable. Conflicts with maker store A-to-C box table, manual preferred. Xbox edition has same listed cable.

Cables included

ANothing Ear (3)

Type	Count
USB-C to USB-C	1

Source1Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026In-the-box table lists the exact cable type and quantity 1.

BSteelSeries Arctis GameBuds

Type	Length (m)	Count
USB-C to USB-C	0.3	1

Source13Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_gamebuds_digi_pig_en_us_web.pdfRead 7 October 2026General p 3 and Accessories p 5 specify one 0.3 m USB-C-to-C charging cable.

Links

Not compared

Product page

us.nothing.tech/products/ear-31Maker product pageus.nothing.tech/products/ear-3Read 30 September 2026Maker product data identifies Ear (3) with the handle ear-3.

steelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebuds1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Canonical maker product page. The query selects the real PlayStation variant.

Spec sheet

boulanger.scene7.com/is/content/Boulanger/6974434226784_f_013Retailer pageboulanger.scene7.com/is/content/Boulanger/6974434226784_f_0Read 30 September 2026One-page exact Ear3 branded technical factsheet hosted by Boulanger. Authorship not independently established, so treated as retailer evidence.

steelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebuds1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-in-ear-headsets/arctis-gamebudsRead 7 October 2026Exact maker page contains the full Audio, Quick-Switch Wireless, Power and Box Contents specification tables. Public serialized table text read without executing scripts.

Manual

d.otto.de/files/a43ba334-6eca-54b3-8512-5edd62424088.pdf10Owner's manuald.otto.de/files/a43ba334-6eca-54b3-8512-5edd62424088.pdfRead 30 September 2026Nothing Ear (3) Quick Start Guide and safety/warranty booklet, model B173, manufacturer-authored document hosted by Otto. Official full-guide link was unavailable.

downloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_gamebuds_digi_pig_en_us_web.pdf13Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_gamebuds_digi_pig_en_us_web.pdfRead 7 October 2026PlayStation Product Information Guide, exact earbuds and case. Xbox edition guide also read.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

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Warranty

None of 1 known

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

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Both are also in the API. Back to all earbuds.