Headsets and headphones / Compare

Sony PULSE Wireless Headset vs SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3

A

Product A: Sony

PULSE Wireless Headset

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B

Product B: SteelSeries

Arctis Nova 3

75 of 161 known

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Only differences

ASony PULSE Wireless Headset

BSteelSeries Arctis Nova 3

General

5 of 8 differ

Series

PULSE1Maker product pageplaystation.com/en-us/accessories/pulse-wireless-headsetRead 20 October 2026Sold in the PlayStation PULSE audio range next to PULSE Edge, PULSE Elevate, PULSE Explore and PULSE Elite. It is a new headset and not the 2024 PULSE Elite (CFI-ZWH2).

Arctis Nova2Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Maker page data names the family Arctis Nova and the master product Arctis Nova 3.

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

Not available

61631, HS-000242Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Structured data gives SKU 61631 for the black wired model. HS-00024 is the regulatory model number from the product guide.3Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_nova_3_pig_web.pdfRead 11 October 2026Regulatory page prints Model No. HS-00024.

GTIN / EAN

Not available

8500141197682Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Structured data gives UPC 850014119768 and EAN 5707119043670. The Amazon US listing repeats the UPC. Spec rows match the archived launch page.8Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B09ZWMYHCTRead 11 October 2026Amazon US listing for model 61631 gives UPC 850014119768.

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

15 September 20262Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026Blog post dated 15 September 2026 (Pacific time). Some outlets report 16 September.

23 August 20224Press releasesteelseries.com/press/121-steelseries-introduces-arctis-nova-7-heir-one-best-selling-gaming-headsetsRead 11 October 2026

Status

Available2Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026Product page and launch announcement. The 21 October 2026 update gives a release date of 19 November 2026 and opens pre-orders on 29 October 2026, so the headset is not on sale yet.

Available2Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Maker page read 2026-10-21 lists the wired Arctis Nova 3 with a $99.99 MSRP and the colours Black, White, Lavender, Aqua and Fortnite Edition. The US store shows it out of stock with a notify-me form. It is not marked discontinued

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

Not available

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.

$99.992Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026Update of 21 October 2026 gives a recommended retail price of $99.99 for the PlayStation Pulse wireless headset. US retail prices exclude sales tax.

$99.994Press releasesteelseries.com/press/121-steelseries-introduces-arctis-nova-7-heir-one-best-selling-gaming-headsetsRead 11 October 2026Arctis Nova 3 US $99.99 MSRP. Excludes tax.

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.

€99.992Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026Same update gives a recommended retail price of 99.99 euro. The post names no single euro country and gives one euro price. The post also lists 89.99 GBP and 15,980 yen, which are not stored.

€109.994Press releasesteelseries.com/press/121-steelseries-introduces-arctis-nova-7-heir-one-best-selling-gaming-headsetsRead 11 October 2026Arctis Nova 3 EMEA 109.99 EUR.

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

US, CA, AU, NZ, JP, AT, BE, DK, FI, FR, DE, IS, IE, IL, IT, LU, NL, NO, PT, ES, SE, CH, UA, GB2Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026Update lists the launch regions: U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine and the U.K. The post says the date for further countries comes later.

US, EU2Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026US storefront price in USD. The archived EU storefront page of 2022-08-23 shows 109,99 EUR

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Midnight Black, White1Maker product pageplaystation.com/en-us/accessories/pulse-wireless-headsetRead 20 October 2026Page says available in Midnight Black and White, subject to retailer availability.

Black, White1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Launch page color selector lists Black and White. The live page lists only the black wired model 61631, so no white model number is stored.

Segment

Gaming1Maker product pageplaystation.com/en-us/accessories/pulse-wireless-headsetRead 20 October 2026PlayStation accessory page for gaming audio. It also mentions lifestyle use.

Gaming1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026

Design

3 of 7 differ

Form factor

Over-ear2Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026The post says earcups and shows closed round earcups that enclose the ear in its press images. No source writes over-ear.

Over-ear5Reviewbasic-tutorials.com/reviews/peripherals/steelseries-arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Spec table: Design Over-ear.

Ear cup enclosureiClosed, open or semi-open acoustic enclosure. This does not describe how the headset folds.

Not available

Closed7Retailer pagemultitronic.fi/en/products/1288241/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-gaming-headset--blackRead 11 October 2026Retailer description: 40 mm neodymium drivers housed in a closed-back acoustic system for passive noise isolation.

Wearing style

Headband2Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026Headband headset with rotating earcups per the post.

Headband5Reviewbasic-tutorials.com/reviews/peripherals/steelseries-arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026

FoldingiFlat means the ear cups rotate flat. Inward means the ear cups fold toward the headband.

Flat1Maker product pageplaystation.com/en-us/accessories/pulse-wireless-headsetRead 20 October 2026Page: flat-folding earcups. The announcement says rotating earcups let the headset lay flat. No inward fold is stated.

Flat1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026AirWeave Memory Foam text: earcups that fully rotate for easy transport and storage. Read as ear cups that turn flat. SoundGuys says the headset folds flat12Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-review-77788Read 21 October 2026Review: swivel the ear cups for fit, then fold the headphones flat for storage

Swivelling ear cupsiEar cups can rotate relative to the headband. Tilting alone does not count.

Yes2Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026Both headsets have rotating earcups that allow them to lay flat for portability.

Yes1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026AirWeave Memory Foam text: earcups that fully rotate for easy transport and storage.6Reviewpcworld.com/article/1363182/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-gaming-headset-review.htmlRead 11 October 2026Review: fully swiveling earcups.

RGB lighting

Not available

Yes1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026PrismSync RGB: dual-zone RGB in 16.8 million colors.

Lighting zonesiNumber of independently controllable lighting areas across both ear cups.

Not available

21Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026

Drivers and sound

11 of 20 differ

Driver type

Planar magnetic1Maker product pageplaystation.com/en-us/accessories/pulse-wireless-headsetRead 20 October 2026Custom planar magnetic drivers. Driver diameter, diaphragm and number of drivers per side are not published.

Dynamic13Reviewtechpowerup.com/review/steelseries-arctis-nova-3/1.htmlRead 21 October 2026Specifications list: Drivers 40-mm dynamic (neodymium magnet)14Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/steelseries/arctis-nova-3Read 21 October 2026Public header of the review, Methodology v1.5: Transducer Dynamic. Numeric results are behind the RTINGS paywall and were not used

Driver sizeiDiameter of the largest sound driver. Do not use the microphone capsule diameter.

Not available

40mm1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026

Drivers per sideiNumber of sound-producing transducers in one side, excluding microphones.

Not available

Not available

Diaphragm material

Not available

Not available

Magnet

Not available

Neodymium1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026

Frequency response (wired or passive)iPublished acoustic range for wired listening, or the maker’s single range when no mode is distinguished. Power state and test standard belong in the source note.

Not available

Min20 HzMax22 kHz1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Headphone Frequency Response 20-22,000 Hz. No wired or wireless distinction.

Wireless audio transmission bandiFrequency range of audio transmitted over the wireless connection, not the acoustic response of the driver. Codec, sampling rate and bitrate conditions belong in the source note. When the maker gives a range per codec, the widest range is stored and its codec goes in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Impedance (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off value for a passive analog connection when the maker publishes both powered and passive values. Note the power state and test frequency.

Not available

36Ω1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Headphone Impedance 36 Ohm. Power state is not stated.

Sensitivity (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off figure when both powered and passive values exist. The power or voltage reference, test distance and frequency belong in the source note.

Not available

93dB1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Headphone Sensitivity 93 dBSPL. No power or voltage reference is stated, so none is stored. The 2025 wireless Nova 3 page lists 107 dBSPL, which is a different model.

Sensitivity referenceiPublished power or voltage reference for sensitivity. Do not assume 1 mW when the source gives only a dB value.

Not available

Not available

THD (claimed)iPublished distortion figure or numerical upper bound. The source note states any less-than sign and test level.

Not available

1%1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Total Harmonic Distortion < 1%. Stored as the upper bound. Test level is not stated.

Max input power

Not available

Not available

Max digital audio sample rateiHighest supported digital audio sample rate over a USB cable or wireless dongle. This is not the microphone rate or acoustic frequency response.

Not available

96kHz13Reviewtechpowerup.com/review/steelseries-arctis-nova-3/1.htmlRead 21 October 2026Specifications list: DAC 24-bit/96 kHz. The maker pages do not state a sample rate. RTINGS lists 24-bit 48 kHz only as its test setting

Max digital audio bit depthiHighest published digital playback bit depth over a USB cable or wireless dongle.

Not available

24bits13Reviewtechpowerup.com/review/steelseries-arctis-nova-3/1.htmlRead 21 October 2026Specifications list: DAC 24-bit/96 kHz

DAC

Not available

Not available

Personalised soundiA manufacturer-supported hearing test or ear scan creates a device sound profile tailored to the listener. Generic equalizer adjustments do not count.

Not available

Not available

Onboard EQiCustom playback EQ profiles stored in the headset and applied without the host app running. Note supported active connections. Receiver-only or software-only EQ does not count.

Not available

No9Maker product pagesupport.steelseries.com/hc/en-us/articles/8599313013517-Does-Arctis-Nova-3-sound-better-than-Arctis-Nova-1Read 21 October 2026Support article describes the Nova 3 as software-based audio control with custom EQ adjustments through Sonar and GG. The Nova 1 is the model that works without software. SoundGuys says EQ cannot be changed on Steam Deck or Switch12Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-review-77788Read 21 October 2026On Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch the author cannot change EQ with any software, so the EQ lives in GG on the PC and is not stored in the headset

Custom EQ bandsiNumber of bands in the custom playback equalizer. Microphone EQ bands are excluded.

Not available

105Reviewbasic-tutorials.com/reviews/peripherals/steelseries-arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Review: the SteelSeries software has a 10-band EQ.

EQ presets

Not available

Not available

Volume limit

Not available

Not available

Spatial audio

1 of 3 differ

Spatial audio supportiNamed headset or host spatial-audio systems that the maker or reviewer explicitly supports. A platform feature may require compatible hardware, software or a separate licence.

Tempest 3D AudioTech1Maker product pageplaystation.com/en-us/accessories/pulse-wireless-headsetRead 20 October 2026Page names Tempest 3D AudioTech in supported games on a PS5 console. No Dolby or DTS licence is named.

SteelSeries Sonar 360° Spatial Audio, Tempest 3D AudioTech, Microsoft Spatial Sound1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026360° Spatial Audio supported through Sonar. Fully compatible with Tempest 3D Audio for PS5 and Microsoft Spatial Sound.

Spatial audio licence includediA paid spatial-audio licence is bundled or embedded. Compatibility with a separately purchased app does not count.

Not available

Not available

Head tracking

Not available

Not available

Noise cancelling

0 of 10 differ

Active noise cancelling

No2Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026Comparison table lists Active Noise Cancellation as not included for PlayStation Pulse and included for Pulse Edge.

No6Reviewpcworld.com/article/1363182/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-gaming-headset-review.htmlRead 11 October 2026Review: no active noise cancellation to speak of, only the slightest passive barrier.

ANC typeiFeedforward uses outside microphones. Feedback uses inside microphones. Hybrid uses both. Voice-call noise filtering is separate.

Not available

Not available

ANC microphonesiTotal microphones used for active playback noise cancellation across both sides. Do not substitute the total physical or voice microphone count.

Not available

Not available

Adaptive ANCiNoise cancellation automatically changes with the environment or fit. Manually choosing a level does not count.

Not available

Not available

ANC levelsiNumber of adjustable cancellation strength steps. Off and transparency modes are excluded.

Not available

Not available

ANC attenuation (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Transparency mode

Not available

Not available

Adjustable transparency

Not available

Not available

Conversation detectioniAudio pauses or lowers automatically when the wearer speaks. Voice assistant activation does not count.

Not available

Not available

Wind noise reduction

Not available

Not available

Measured

1 of 21 differ

Frequency response notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Against the SoundGuys consumer target curve: under-emphasis in the sub-bass and midrange, a boost in the bass range and a boost high up in the treble range. Spatial sound in SteelSeries GG makes the bass more audible and tames the highs12Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-review-77788Read 21 October 2026Review updated 2025-03-06. SoundGuys lab frequency response chart compared with its consumer target curve. No numeric deviations are published

Bass amountiReviewer’s bass deviation from its stated target. Positive is more bass. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Treble amountiReviewer’s treble deviation from its stated target. Positive is more treble. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Deviation from targetiReviewer’s full-range error from its target curve. Do not substitute a regional bass or treble error.

Not available

Not available

Consistency between fittingsiReviewer’s standard deviation across repeated fittings. Test rig and fitting procedure belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Harmonic distortioniIndependently measured harmonic distortion, with test level and method in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Sound leakageiIndependently measured leakage at 30 cm. Playback level and method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Measured noise isolationiIndependently measured attenuation. Positive values mean more noise reduction. ANC state, rig and frequency bands belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Noise isolation (measured, best)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

Mic quality notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic low-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic high-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic speech-to-noise ratioiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured latencyiEnd-to-end latency measured by a reviewer for a specific connection, platform and codec. Firmware, method and operating mode belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

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

Not available

Not available

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

Not available

Not available

Measured battery lifeiReviewer’s continuous playback test. State the connection, ANC and lighting where known. Unknown settings stay omitted and are described in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Battery life (measured, max)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Clamping forceiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Weight (measured)iIndependently weighed headset. A review that repeats the maker’s number does not qualify. Cable and microphone inclusion belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Microphone

10 of 16 differ

MicrophoneiMain microphone used for speech. Secondary internal microphones may be described in the source note.

Built-in1Maker product pageplaystation.com/en-us/accessories/pulse-wireless-headsetRead 20 October 2026Page names a built-in microphone. The announcement table says integrated mic. Its position is not stated.

Retractable boom1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026ClearCast Gen 2 - Fully Retractable Boom.

Microphone element

Not available

Not available

Microphone pickup patterniUse the maker’s exact named pattern. Unidirectional does not establish whether the capsule is cardioid, supercardioid or hypercardioid.

Not available

Bidirectional1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026

Voice microphonesiTotal microphones used for voice pickup or beamforming across both sides. ANC-only microphones are excluded.

Not available

13Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_nova_3_pig_web.pdfRead 11 October 2026Overview lists one microphone, item 3 Retractable ClearCast Microphone. No other microphone is named

Total microphonesiEvery physical microphone across the headset, including call, ANC and calibration microphones. Shared microphones count once. Excludes microphones in charging cases or receivers, and vibration sensors. Use an explicitly published physical total, never a sum of overlapping role counts.

Not available

Not available

Mic frequency responseiAcoustic microphone response, not its digital sampling rate. Connection-specific ranges belong in the source note.

Not available

Min100 HzMax10 kHz1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026

Mic sensitivityiPublished microphone sensitivity. Reference such as dBV/Pa or dBFS, frequency and distance belong in the source note.

Not available

-38dB1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Microphone Sensitivity -38 dBV/Pa

Mic signal-to-noiseiPublished microphone signal-to-noise ratio. Minimum or typical conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sample rateiExplicitly published digital microphone capture or speech sampling rate. State the audio route in the source note, or say it is unpublished. Internal capture does not prove the effective rate on every connection. Acoustic bandwidth, playback rate and generic microphone-chip capability do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Mic noise reductioniProcessing that removes noise from transmitted speech. Playback ANC and a directional microphone alone do not count.

AI1Maker product pageplaystation.com/en-us/accessories/pulse-wireless-headsetRead 20 October 2026Page and announcement both say AI-enhanced noise rejection for voice chat.

AI1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Maker: the fully retractable ClearCast Gen 2 noise cancelling mic uses AI algorithms from Sonar Software. On PC it needs Windows 10 and above.

Flip to mute

Not available

No1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026FAQ: the microphone still picks up sound while retracted, so retracting does not mute it

Mute button

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_nova_3_pig_web.pdfRead 11 October 2026

Mute indicatoriPublished indication of microphone mute. mechanical_marker is a visible physical marker showing the microphone's mute-switch position. LED options require an electronic light. The in-line controller option is for a mute light on a cable remote.

Not available

LED on mic3Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_nova_3_pig_web.pdfRead 11 October 2026Overview item 4 is the Microphone Mute LED. In the diagram it sits on the tip of the microphone boom. Item 7 is a separate mute button on the ear cup12Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-review-77788Read 21 October 2026Mute button on the back of the left ear cup. The LED on the microphone is red when muted

Sidetone

Not available

Yes2Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Maker page: set and save primary headset sound settings, such as equalizer and mic sidetone, inside the Engine app9Maker product pagesupport.steelseries.com/hc/en-us/articles/8599313013517-Does-Arctis-Nova-3-sound-better-than-Arctis-Nova-1Read 21 October 2026Support article lists sidetone control as a Nova 3 feature next to custom EQ adjustments, firmware updates and RGB lighting12Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-review-77788Read 21 October 2026Headset comes out of the box with sidetone on. Sidetone can be adjusted in SteelSeries GG

Adjustable sidetone

Not available

Yes12Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-review-77788Read 21 October 2026GG lets you adjust the sidetone and mic volume

Foam microphone windscreeniA foam cover for the voice microphone. An internal metal mesh pop filter does not count.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

10 of 20 differ

Audio connectionsiConnections that carry playback audio. Charging or firmware USB alone does not count as USB audio.

2.4 GHz, Bluetooth2Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026PlayStation Link through the included adapter and simultaneous Bluetooth. The table lists no audio/microphone jack for PlayStation Pulse.

USB, Analog1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Wired only: USB-C and a 3.5 mm analog cable.

Analog source plugsiAnalog plug(s) supplied for the source device, including adapters. The headset-side jack is listed separately.

Not available

3.5 mm TRRS3Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_nova_3_pig_web.pdfRead 11 October 2026Setup page 6: 3.5 mm connection for an Xbox controller uses the USB-C to 3.5 mm analog cable. The guide does not name the pole count. See the Xbox support article10Maker product pagesupport.steelseries.com/hc/en-us/articles/8600584347533-Does-the-Arctis-Nova-3-work-with-XboxRead 21 October 2026One 3.5 mm plug carries stereo audio and the microphone to the Xbox controller jack, which takes four contacts (TRRS). The article does not name the pole count

Cable connector on headsetiConnection used by the playback cable at the headset. A fixed cable is not replaceable through a headset jack.

Not available

USB-C7Retailer pagemultitronic.fi/en/products/1288241/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-gaming-headset--blackRead 11 October 2026Retailer listing: USB Type-C connector. The headset side connector is the USB-C jack in the product guide.

Longest included cableiLength of the longest supplied cable, including charging and dongle cables. Individual cable lengths are listed in Cables included.

Not available

1.5m7Retailer pagemultitronic.fi/en/products/1288241/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-gaming-headset--blackRead 11 October 2026Longest supplied cable is the 1.5 m USB-C to USB-A adapter and extension cable. The main and analog cables are 1.2 m.

Headset USB plug or portiUSB plug or port on the headset or its included wired audio adapter. A charging-only USB port can appear here.

Not available

USB-C7Retailer pagemultitronic.fi/en/products/1288241/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-gaming-headset--blackRead 11 October 2026USB-C jack on the headset, per the product guide overview.

Audio over USB-C cableiPlayback through a USB-C cable or included wired USB-C audio adapter. A charging-only USB-C port does not count.

Not available

Yes1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Multi-Platform USB-C: the USB-C hooks up to compatible platforms for audio.

Passive wired listeningiAnalog playback works with the headset powered off or its battery empty. An active analog converter that needs headset power does not count.

Not available

Yes10Maker product pagesupport.steelseries.com/hc/en-us/articles/8600584347533-Does-the-Arctis-Nova-3-work-with-XboxRead 21 October 2026In 3.5 mm mode the headset functions as a standard analog headset. RGB and all USB-based features are unavailable, so the headset gets no power from this connection. The headset has no battery

Wireless receiveriDedicated wireless audio receiver or dongle. A wired USB sound card does not count.

Included2Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026Comparison table: PlayStation Link adapter with USB Type-C connector included.

None1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026No wireless receiver in the box.

Wireless receiver connectoriPhysical USB connector on the receiver. Supplied extension cables and adapters are explained in the source note. Both means two native connector types.

USB-C2Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026Same table row names a USB Type-C connector on the adapter.

Not available

Wireless range (claimed)iMaker’s advertised wireless range. Connection and indoor or outdoor conditions belong in the source note. Measured distance is not stored here.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth codecsiNamed Bluetooth audio codecs supported by this exact model. Host, firmware and operating-mode restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

LE AudioiLE Audio playback support. Bluetooth Low Energy for app control alone does not count.

Not available

Not available

AuracastiAuracast broadcast audio support. Required phone, firmware and app conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth multipointiCan remain connected to multiple Bluetooth source devices at once. Mixing Bluetooth with a proprietary dongle is a separate field. A maker's dual connection to two Bluetooth devices at once counts.

Not available

Not available

Multipoint devicesiNumber of Bluetooth source devices connected at once, not the number remembered for later pairing.

Not available

Not available

Paired devices remembered

Not available

Not available

Mixes 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth audioiPlays both wireless audio streams at the same time. Automatic switching or Bluetooth standby does not count.

Yes1Maker product pageplaystation.com/en-us/accessories/pulse-wireless-headsetRead 20 October 2026Page says connect to multiple devices simultaneously via Bluetooth and PlayStation Link, for example chat on a phone while PS5 game audio plays over PS Link.

Not available

Fast pairing

Not available

Not available

Base station

Not available

Not available

Latency

None of 2 known

Low latency modeiA selectable mode intended to reduce audio delay. A low-latency connection without a distinct mode does not count.

Not available

Not available

Claimed latencyiMaker’s claimed delay for the stated connection and mode. Minimum claims and host restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Compatibility

2 of 3 differ

Compatible platformsiPlatforms with a documented audio path. This does not imply every connection or microphone function works. Platform editions must be checked individually.

PS5, Windows, macOS, Other2Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026PlayStation Link switches between PS5 consoles, PlayStation Portal remote player, PC and Mac. The PC and Mac rows carry no OS version. Other stands for PlayStation Portal. Bluetooth devices are not named by platform.

Windows, macOS, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Compatibility list: PC, Mac, Xbox (3.5 mm only, no RGB), PS4 and PS5, Switch, mobile. Multi-Platform USB-C text adds USB-C iPad.

Connection per platformiOnly explicitly documented playback paths for the exact model. Microphone support is separate. Leave unknown microphone support omitted. An Xbox and a PlayStation edition of one headset can connect differently, so it is per variant.

ASony PULSE Wireless Headset

Platform	Connection
PS5	2.4 GHz
Windows	2.4 GHz
macOS	2.4 GHz
Other	2.4 GHz

Source2Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026Only the PlayStation Link paths named in the post. Microphone support per platform is not stated. Bluetooth host platforms are not named.

BSteelSeries Arctis Nova 3

Platform	Connection	Microphone works
Windows	USB	Not available
macOS	USB	Not available
PS5	USB	Not available
PS4	USB	Not available
Nintendo Switch	USB	Not available
Android	USB	Not available
iOS	USB	Not available
Xbox Series X|S	Analog	Yes
Xbox One	Analog	Yes

Source1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026USB-C connects to PC, Mac, PlayStation, Switch and mobile. Xbox uses the 3.5 mm analog cable. Microphone support is not stated per platform. The support article on Xbox adds that audio and microphone work over the 3.5 mm cable on an Xbox controller, so microphone_works is stored for the two Xbox rows only.10Maker product pagesupport.steelseries.com/hc/en-us/articles/8600584347533-Does-the-Arctis-Nova-3-work-with-XboxRead 21 October 2026Xbox works through the controller's 3.5 mm headset jack with the included USB-C to 3.5 mm cable. The article says you can use audio and microphone features on Xbox

Official licence

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

None of 13 known

Battery capacityiRated capacity of one headset battery. Do not use case, receiver or total multi-battery capacity.

Not available

Not available

Swappable batteryiBattery can be exchanged by the user as part of normal operation. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

Not available

Batteries includediNumber of headset batteries supplied, including the one already installed.

Not available

Not available

Claimed battery lifeiMaker’s maximum playback time per stated connection, codec, ANC, spatial audio and lighting settings. Name the spatial processing mode and other conditions in the source note. Unknown settings stay omitted.

Not available

Not available

Battery life (claimed, max)

Not available

Not available

Battery life with ANC (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Battery life without ANC (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Charging port

Not available

Not available

Full charge timeiPublished time to fully charge a depleted headset. In-use charging can take longer.

Not available

Not available

Quick charge timeiCharge duration in the maker’s quick-charge claim. Read together with Quick charge playback.

Not available

Not available

Quick charge playbackiPlayback gained from Quick charge time. Charger power, codec, volume and ANC conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Use while charging

Not available

Not available

Charging dock or stand

Not available

Not available

Controls

3 of 6 differ

Controls

Not available

Volume wheel, Buttons1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026On-Ear Controls: Volume dial, Mute, RGB on/off.

Volume control

Not available

Wheel1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026

Game and chat mixiBalances separate game and chat audio streams. Mixing Bluetooth and dongle source volume alone does not count. Supported platforms belong in the source note.

Not available

Software12Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-review-77788Read 21 October 2026Sonar section of GG adjusts game, chat and microphone volume in software. The headset has no ChatMix dial

Remappable controlsiOn-device button, touch or dial functions can be reassigned. Changing EQ alone does not count.

Not available

Not available

Wear detection

Not available

Not available

Voice assistant

Not available

Not available

Comfort and build

8 of 11 differ

Headband type

Not available

Suspension strap3Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_nova_3_pig_web.pdfRead 11 October 2026Overview item 1: Elastic Headband. Perfect Fit page: adjust the position of the elastic headband for tension and flex.

Headband material

Not available

Elastic fabric strap12Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-review-77788Read 21 October 2026Fabric suspension strap that keeps the head off the headband frame. The maker guide calls it an Elastic Headband

Frame material

Not available

Plastic12Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-review-77788Read 21 October 2026Plastic build that feels sturdy, with a sturdy frame of the headband. The review does not name a metal part

Ear cup material

Not available

Rubbery plastic12Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-review-77788Read 21 October 2026Ear cups are made of a more rubbery plastic that shows scratches clearly

Ear pad material

Not available

AirWeave memory foam1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026AirWeave Memory Foam.

Replaceable ear pads

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_nova_3_pig_web.pdfRead 11 October 2026Overview marks the AirWeave ear cushions with an asterisk: find accessories and replacement parts at steelseries.com.5Reviewbasic-tutorials.com/reviews/peripherals/steelseries-arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Review: all cables and the soft AirWeave Memory Foam ear pads are removable and can be replaced.

Ear pad attachmentiHow a replacement ear pad attaches to the ear cup, not how the decorative outer cover attaches. A press-fit or snap-on pad counts as clip.

Not available

Not available

Ear pad openingiUsable opening inside an ear pad, excluding the outer cushion. Depth is the internal space between pad surface and driver cover.

Not available

Width85Height95mm(3.3 × 3.7 in)12Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-review-77788Read 21 October 2026Spec table: Ear pad interior 8.5 x 9.5 cm. The page does not name the axes. Stored as width 85 mm and height 95 mm, since an ear opening is taller than wide. Depth is not stated

Ear tips included

Not available

Not available

Dust and water rating

Not available

Not available

User-replaceable parts

Not available

Elastic headband, AirWeave ear cushions, USB-C main cable, USB-A extension cable, USB-C to 3.5 mm analog cable3Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_nova_3_pig_web.pdfRead 11 October 2026Asterisked parts: elastic headband, ear cushions and the three cables.

Software

3 of 3 differ

Companion app

Not available

SteelSeries GG (Engine and Sonar)1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Software requirements: GG with Engine (Windows 8.1 and above, Mac OS 10.13 and above) and Sonar (Windows 10 and above).

App platforms

Not available

Windows, macOS1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026

User firmware updates

Not available

Yes9Maker product pagesupport.steelseries.com/hc/en-us/articles/8599313013517-Does-Arctis-Nova-3-sound-better-than-Arctis-Nova-1Read 21 October 2026Support article lists firmware updates as a Nova 3 feature. A related support article is titled Do I need to update the firmware on my Arctis Nova 312Reviewsoundguys.com/steelseries-arctis-nova-3-review-77788Read 21 October 2026GG is where you find firmware updates for the headset if any come out14Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/steelseries/arctis-nova-3Read 21 October 2026Changelog of 2023-05-12: RTINGS tested firmware update DSP 0.10.62 / MCU 1.2.0, which users reported fixed popping over USB

Dimensions and weight

1 of 2 differ

Headset weightiPublished headset mass without detachable cable or microphone when stated. A fixed cable remains included. Any unqualified maker weight is identified in the source note.

Not available

253g(8.9 oz)1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Ultra-Lightweight text: weighs just 253g.

Headset dimensionsiBody size with headband upright and ear cups in their normal wearing position. Width is across the head, height is top to bottom, and depth is front to back. Folded or flat-swivel dimensions are not substituted.

Not available

Not available

Certifications

1 of 3 differ

Hi-Res Audio

Not available

Not available

Communication certifications

Not available

Not available

FCC ID

Not available

Not available

Other certifications

Not available

EU Declaration of Conformity: RoHS 2.0 (2015/863/EU), EMC Directive (2014/30/EU), LVD (2014/35/EU), REACH (EC) 1907/2006, UK Declaration of Conformity: EMC Regulations 2016, Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016, RoHS Regulations 2012, FCC Part 15 Class B, Canada ICES-003 Class B, Japan VCCI Class B, Korea KC R-R-SS4-HS-000243Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_nova_3_pig_web.pdfRead 11 October 2026Regulatory pages 22 to 25: EU Declaration of Conformity (RoHS 2.0, EMC, LVD), REACH statement, UK Declaration of Conformity, FCC Part 15 Class B statement, Canada ICES-003 Class B, Japan VCCI-B, Korea certification R-R-SS4-HS-00024, ACMA, India, Turkey and China RoHS statements. These are maker declarations. No FCC ID is printed

In the box

2 of 3 differ

In the box

Not available

Arctis Nova 3 Headset, USB-C to USB-C Main Cable (4 ft / 1.2m), USB-C to USB-A Adapter/Extension Cable (5 ft / 1.5m), USB-C to 3.5mm Analog Cable (4 ft / 1.2m), Product Information Guide1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Box content list on the archived maker page.

Cables includediSupplied playback, charging, dongle and adapter cables. A permanently attached headset cable is included and named as fixed.

ASony PULSE Wireless Headset

Not available

BSteelSeries Arctis Nova 3

Type	Length (m)	Count
USB-C to USB-C main cable	1.2	1
USB-C to USB-A adapter and extension cable	1.5	1
USB-C to 3.5 mm analog cable	1.2	1

Source1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026

Carrying caseiSupplied carrying case or pouch. A retail carton does not count as a carrying case.

None2Press releaseblog.playstation.com/2026/09/15/introducing-the-next-line-of-ps5-audio-products-playstation-pulse-and-pulse-edge-wireless-headsetsRead 21 October 2026Comparison table lists a carrying case only for Pulse Edge.

None1Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026The box content list has no case or pouch.

Links

Not compared

Product page

www.playstation.com/en-us/accessories/pulse-wireless-headset1Maker product pageplaystation.com/en-us/accessories/pulse-wireless-headsetRead 20 October 2026

steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-32Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026

Spec sheet

Not available

web.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-31Maker product pageweb.archive.org/web/20220823165838/https://steelseries.com/gaming-headsets/arctis-nova-3Read 11 October 2026Archived maker page from launch day 2022-08-23. The live page now lists the wired model and the 2025 Nova 3 Wireless family together.

Manual

Not available

downloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_nova_3_pig_web.pdf3Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/HS_arctis_nova_3_pig_web.pdfRead 11 October 2026

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.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

1 of 1 differ

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.

Not available

1year11Maker product pagesupport.steelseries.com/hc/en-us/articles/221391568-Warranty-Policy-How-do-I-claim-my-warranty-and-what-does-it-coverRead 21 October 2026SteelSeries Global Warranty Commitment: EU products carry a 2-year minimum from the date of purchase. North America and APAC include at least 1 year of limited warranty. 1 year is stored as the minimum for the US launch market. Terms in the article apply to purchases made through SteelSeries.com

Both are also in the API. Back to all headsets and headphones.