Best Cheap Headset · Gaming Headsets

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1

The Arctis Nova 1 brings SteelSeries' comfortable design and clear audio to a budget price. A single 3.5mm jack means it works with almost anything.

Brand: SteelSeries
Best for: Budget gaming on any platform
Price range: Budget
Our score: 7.5/10

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Our take

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 brings SteelSeries' comfortable design and clear audio to a budget price. A single 3.5mm jack means it works with almost anything.

Comfort

The Nova 1 uses an adjustable version of SteelSeries' ski-goggle headband, an elastic strap that spreads the weight across your head. Combined with soft, breathable ear cushions and a light frame, it's comfortable for hours, which is rare at this price.

Sound

The 40mm drivers give a clear, balanced sound with reasonable bass and good detail, enough for footsteps and positional cues in games and fine for music and films. It's well tuned for the money.

Microphone

The noise-cancelling microphone is clear for team chat and online lessons, and reduces background noise well for a budget headset.

Connections

A single 3.5mm cable plugs into PC, PS5 and Xbox controllers, Switch, phones and tablets. That makes it a great shared headset for families with several devices. SteelSeries also sells versions tuned for specific consoles.

Who should buy it

Buy the Arctis Nova 1 for a comfortable, cheap headset that works on every device. If you want wireless, the Logitech G435 LIGHTSPEED is an affordable option.

Key specifications

Connection	3.5mm
Drivers	40mm
Microphone	Noise-cancelling
Headband	Adjustable ski-goggle strap
Platforms	PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, mobile

Strengths and weaknesses

Pros

Comfortable for long sessions
Works with every platform
Clear, balanced sound
Light weight

Cons

Wired only
Plastic build
No surround sound software on the 3.5mm version

Verdict

The Arctis Nova 1 brings SteelSeries' comfortable design and clear audio to a budget price. A single 3.5mm jack means it works with almost anything. It earns our Best Cheap Headset award in our guide to the best gaming headsets.

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