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Alienware Tri Mode Wireless Gaming Headset - AW725H vs SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 86. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 - Outstanding overall at around $130.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 leads on 5 of 6 measures.

  • Alienware Tri Mode Wireless Gaming Headset - AW725H
  • SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5
HearWiki score
64
86
Sound
6.5
8.2
Battery
7.5
9.3
Calls
6.0
8.8
Value
6.5
8.6
Price (USD)
$110
$130

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

Both shipped in 2024. These are the same generation of hardware - nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price.

  • Tri Mode Wireless Gaming Headset - AW725H2024
  • Arctis Nova 52024

Level on: Bluetooth.

Specifications

Tri Mode Wireless Gaming Headset - AW725HArctis Nova 5
Type
Gaming
Gaming
Price (USD)
$110
$130
HearWiki score
64
86
Released
2024
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
40 mm driver
40 mm dynamic
Driver type
-
dynamic
Driver size
40 mm
40 mm
Drivers per side
-
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 40 kHz
20 Hz - 22 kHz
Impedance
32 Ω
36 Ω
Sensitivity
-
93 dB/mW
Bluetooth
5.3
5.3
Codecs
-
SBC, AAC
Multipoint pairing
-
Yes
Wireless range
100 m
9 m
Battery life
75 h
60 h
Full charge time
-
15 min
Quick charge
15 min → 6 h
15 min → 6 h
Wireless charging
-
No
Active noise cancelling
Yes
No
ANC type
-
none
Transparency mode
-
No
Companion app
-
Yes
Custom EQ
-
Yes
Wear detection
-
No
Controls
-
both
Weight
348 g
265 g
Water resistance
-
none
USB-C
-
Yes
Connector
3.5 mm
-
Microphones
1
1

What reviewers said

Alienware Tri Mode Wireless Gaming Headset - AW725H

This gaming headset is designed for extended play, combining a comfortable fit with a 40mm driver and Dolby Atmos support for precise, immersive audio. It offers versatile wireless connectivity via Bluetooth 5.3 and a 3.5mm wired option, plus active noise cancellation and a long 75-hour battery life. A quick 15-minute charge provides six hours of use, making it a reliable choice for marathon sessions.

  • Pro:Long 75-hour battery life
  • Pro:Active noise cancellation for focus
  • Pro:Fast charging adds 6 hours in 15 minutes
  • Con:Relatively heavy at 348 grams
  • Con:Only one microphone for communication
  • Con:No wired USB connection option

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 is a wireless gaming headset that prioritizes long-lasting performance, boasting a 60-hour battery and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity. It features a balanced sound signature from its 40mm drivers and a noise-canceling mic for clear communication, all wrapped in a comfortable design. Multipoint support allows seamless switching between gaming and mobile devices.

  • Pro:Exceptional 60-hour battery life
  • Pro:Multipoint Bluetooth 5.3 for easy device switching
  • Pro:Balanced sound profile suitable for various games
  • Con:No active noise cancellation for immersion
  • Con:No water resistance for durability
  • Con:Limited codec support (SBC, AAC only)

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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New comparisonAlienware Tri Mode Wireless Gaming Headset - AW725HSteelSeries Arctis Nova 5