SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gen 2 vs SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gen 2 offers dual 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth connectivity, a 50-plus-hour battery, and 40 mm drivers, making it a solid choice for long PC or console sessions. Arctis Nova 5 Wireless focuses on a simple 2.4 GHz link, multi-platform support, and a customizable EQ, appealing to budget console gamers. Choose Nova 7 for extended play and flexibility, Nova 5 for a cost-effective console-centric experience.
VS
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gen 2
Best Overall ValueSteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gen 2 is ideal for players who need long battery life, dual wireless modes, and a comfortable on-ear fit.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless
Best Console ValueSteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless is suited to budget console gamers who want a simple 2.4 GHz link, multi-platform support, and customizable EQ.
The differences that matter
- Nova 7 uses dual 2.4 GHz + Bluetooth, while Nova 5 uses only a 2.4 GHz dongle.
- Nova 7 battery lasts 50+ hours; Nova 5 battery life is not disclosed.
- Nova 7 has 40 mm drivers; Nova 5 driver size is not specified.
- Nova 7 features an on-ear design; Nova 5 has a ski-goggle headband.
- Both include detachable microphones, but Nova 7’s mic is described as clear voice.
- Both lack active noise cancellation and built-in surround sound.
Specs side by side
| SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gen 2 | SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | SteelSeries | SteelSeries |
| Best For | Best Overall Value | Best Console Value |
| Key Specs | 2.4GHz + Bluetooth · 50+ hour battery · 40mm drivers | Wireless · multi-platform · customizable EQ |
Pros and cons
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gen 2
- Dual wireless (2.4 GHz & Bluetooth)
- 50+ hour battery life
- Clear 40 mm drivers
- Comfortable on-ear design
- Clear microphone
- No active noise cancellation
- No built-in surround sound
- On-ear style may not suit all head sizes
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless
- Wireless freedom with 2.4 GHz link
- Works on multiple console platforms and PC
- Customizable EQ via software
- Comfortable ski-goggle headband
- Detachable clear-voice microphone
- No active noise cancellation
- Battery life not disclosed in detail
- Relies on a dongle, limiting use with devices lacking USB ports
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gen 2 vs SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless: questions
Which headset is better for console gaming?
Both headsets work on major consoles via a 2.4 GHz dongle. Nova 5 is designed specifically for console use and offers a ski-goggle headband that many find comfortable for long sessions. Nova 7 also works on consoles but is marketed more broadly for PC and mobile use.
What is the main difference between the two?
The key distinction is connectivity: Nova 7 supports both 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth, while Nova 5 relies solely on 2.4 GHz. Nova 7 also advertises a 50+ hour battery and 40 mm drivers, whereas Nova 5’s battery life and driver size are not specified.
Is upgrading to Nova 7 worth it?
If you value extended battery life, dual wireless options, and a larger driver size, Nova 7 offers those benefits. If you are primarily a console player on a budget and don’t need Bluetooth, Nova 5 may be sufficient.
More on Run On Console
We compare what each product's own specs and listing say; we do not show prices because they change every day. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases.