Two wireless gaming headsets, similar prices, similar features, but different strengths. The Razer BlackShark V3 and SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 both target long play sessions with big batteries and Bluetooth multipoint. This head-to-head uses published reviews and recorded specs to show where they genuinely differ and where they are effectively a tie.
Price and positioning
The Razer BlackShark V3 asks $125, while the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 asks $130. That $5 gap is small enough that price alone should not decide the purchase. Both are wireless, over-ear gaming headsets with a single boom microphone and no active noise cancelling. The BlackShark V3 is newer, released in 2025, whereas the Arctis Nova 5 came out in 2024. Neither has an IP rating, so water resistance is not listed for either. Both support multipoint Bluetooth 5.3, so neither gets an edge for multi-device pairing. If you need to switch between a PC and a phone, both handle it.
The scores, side by side
HearWiki's headline score is a buyability figure based on review consensus, price, and availability. The BlackShark V3 scores 91/100, and the Arctis Nova 5 scores 86/100. That is a 5-point gap, which is meaningful but not enormous. The sub-scores tell a more nuanced story. On sound, the BlackShark V3 leads 9.2/10 against 8.2/10. On battery, the Arctis Nova 5 leads 9.3/10 against 8.6/10. Call quality is an exact tie at 8.8/10 for both. Value goes to the BlackShark V3 at 9.2/10 versus 8.6/10. The ANC sub-score is not listed for either because neither headset has active noise cancelling. Remember, the headline score is not an average of these sub-scores, so do not try to reverse-engineer it.
Sound
The BlackShark V3 uses 50 mm dynamic drivers, while the Arctis Nova 5 uses 40 mm dynamic drivers. Published reviews describe the BlackShark V3's audio as robust and energetic, with a sound sub-score of 9.2/10. The Arctis Nova 5's 40 mm drivers deliver a balanced signature, earning an 8.2/10. That is a full point apart, so the BlackShark V3 is the clearer choice for gamers who prioritise bass impact and detail. That said, the Arctis Nova 5's balance suits games where you want to hear footsteps and environmental cues without fatigue. Neither headset supports advanced codecs beyond SBC and AAC, so both rely on standard Bluetooth audio when used wirelessly.
Noise cancelling and battery
Neither headset has active noise cancelling, so the ANC sub-score is not listed for either. If you need to block out a noisy room, look elsewhere. Neither has a transparency mode, wear detection, or wireless charging.
Battery life is where the BlackShark V3 pulls ahead on the spec sheet, even though the Arctis Nova 5 takes the higher battery sub-score. The BlackShark V3 offers 70 hours per charge, which is exceptional. The Arctis Nova 5 offers 60 hours per charge. Both are far above what most gaming headsets manage, so the 10-hour difference is unlikely to matter unless you play for days without charging. Neither lists a with-case figure because these are over-ear headsets without charging cases. The BlackShark V3's 70-hour figure is per charge, not a total with a case.
Calls and everyday use
Both headsets have a single microphone, and both earn 8.8/10 for call quality. That is an exact tie. If you take calls during gaming or use the headset for work, you can expect similar performance from either. The BlackShark V3 weighs 270 g, and the Arctis Nova 5 weighs 265 g, so they are nearly identical in weight. Both are comfortable for long sessions, though comfort is subjective and depends on your head shape. The BlackShark V3 has a low-latency 10 ms mode, which is worth noting for competitive gaming. The Arctis Nova 5 does not advertise a specific low-latency mode.
For everyday use, both support multipoint, so you can connect to a PC and a phone at the same time. Neither has an IP rating, so avoid heavy sweat or rain. The Arctis Nova 5's balanced sound may be more pleasant for music, while the BlackShark V3's larger drivers may feel more immersive in games. If you want a headset that works for both gaming and calls, the tie in call quality means you can decide on sound preference alone.
Which one should you buy?
If you want the best sound for gaming and the longest battery life, the Razer BlackShark V3 is the stronger pick. Its 91/100 headline score, 9.2/10 sound sub-score, and 70-hour battery justify the $125 price. It also has a low-latency mode, which competitive players will appreciate.
If you prefer a balanced sound signature and do not need the extra 10 hours of battery, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 is a solid alternative. Its 86/100 score and 9.3/10 battery sub-score mean it will last through marathon sessions, and its 265 g weight is marginally lighter. The $5 price difference is negligible.
For most buyers, the BlackShark V3 offers more for the money, but the Arctis Nova 5 is not a poor choice. If you value audio punch and longer battery, go with Razer. If you want a slightly lighter headset with a neutral tuning, go with SteelSeries. See the full comparison table at /compare/razer-blackshark-v3-vs-steelseries-arctis-nova-5, or browse other options in our gaming headset guide.
FAQ
Do these headsets have active noise cancelling?
No. Neither the Razer BlackShark V3 nor the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 has active noise cancelling. The ANC sub-score is not listed for either. If you need ANC, look for a headset that explicitly lists it.
Which headset has better battery life?
The Razer BlackShark V3 offers 70 hours per charge, while the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 offers 60 hours per charge. Both are excellent, but the BlackShark V3 lasts longer. Neither has a charging case.
Can I connect both to a PC and a phone at the same time?
Yes. Both headsets support multipoint Bluetooth 5.3, so you can pair them with two devices simultaneously. Neither gets an advantage here. For more on multipoint headsets, see our best true wireless guide or best over-ear guide.
