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Corsair Virtuoso Max 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 6 of 7 measures.

  • Corsair Virtuoso Max
  • SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5
HearWiki score
70
86
Sound
7.8
8.2
Noise cancelling
7.1
-
Battery
7.8
9.3
Calls
7.7
8.8
Value
5.8
8.6
Price (USD)
$210
$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?

Half a step newer

Both shipped in 2024. The Corsair Virtuoso Max edges ahead on platform, but only just: ANC type Hybrid against None. It also adds Transparency mode.

  • Virtuoso Max2024
  • Arctis Nova 52024
What differsVirtuoso MaxArctis Nova 5

Platform

ANC type
Hybrid
None

Everyday features

Transparency mode
Yes
No

Level on: Bluetooth, Top codec, Multipoint pairing, USB-C, Custom EQ, Companion app.

Specifications

Virtuoso MaxArctis Nova 5
Type
Gaming
Gaming
Price (USD)
$210
$130
HearWiki score
70
86
Released
2024
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
50 mm dynamic
40 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
50 mm
40 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 40 kHz
20 Hz - 22 kHz
Impedance
32 Ω
36 Ω
Sensitivity
118 dB/mW
93 dB/mW
Bluetooth
5.3
5.3
Codecs
SBC, AAC
SBC, AAC
Multipoint pairing
Yes
Yes
Wireless range
-
9 m
Battery life
30 h
60 h
Battery life (ANC on)
30 h
-
Full charge time
-
15 min
Quick charge
-
15 min → 6 h
Wireless charging
No
No
Active noise cancelling
Yes
No
ANC type
hybrid
none
Transparency mode
Yes
No
Companion app
Yes
Yes
Custom EQ
Yes
Yes
Wear detection
No
No
Controls
buttons
both
Weight
412 g
265 g
Water resistance
none
none
Foldable
No
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
Yes
Yes
Microphones
1
1

What reviewers said

Corsair Virtuoso Max

The Corsair Virtuoso Max is a premium wireless gaming headset that combines robust sound with versatile connectivity, including Bluetooth 5.3 and multipoint support. It offers hybrid active noise cancellation and a transparency mode, though its heavier build and out-of-the-box tuning may require some adjustment for optimal comfort and audio balance.

  • Pro:Strong immersive audio for gaming
  • Pro:Hybrid ANC and transparency mode included
  • Pro:Multipoint Bluetooth 5.3 for easy device switching
  • Con:Heavy 412g chassis can cause fatigue
  • Con:Bright highs may need EQ tweaking
  • Con:ANC and sidetone performance underwhelming

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 comparisonCorsair Virtuoso MaxSteelSeries Arctis Nova 5