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HyperX Cloud Alpha Air 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 6 measures.

  • HyperX Cloud Alpha Air
  • SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5
HearWiki score
69
86
Sound
7.6
8.2
Battery
-
9.3
Calls
6.8
8.8
Value
6.3
8.6
Price (USD)
$150
$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

The HyperX Cloud Alpha Air is 2 years newer, but it is 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.

  • Cloud Alpha Air20262 yr newer
  • Arctis Nova 52024

Level on: USB-C.

Specifications

Cloud Alpha AirArctis Nova 5
Type
Gaming
Gaming
Price (USD)
$150
$130
HearWiki score
69
86
Released
2026
2024
Availability
Sold new
Still sold new
Driver
40 mm dynamic
40 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
40 mm
40 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
20 Hz - 22 kHz
Impedance
34 Ω
36 Ω
Sensitivity
97 dB/mW
93 dB/mW
Bluetooth
-
5.3
Codecs
-
SBC, AAC
Multipoint pairing
-
Yes
Wireless range
-
9 m
Battery life
-
60 h
Full charge time
-
15 min
Quick charge
-
15 min → 6 h
Wireless charging
-
No
Active noise cancelling
No
No
ANC type
-
none
Transparency mode
-
No
Companion app
-
Yes
Custom EQ
-
Yes
Wear detection
-
No
Controls
-
both
Weight
272 g
265 g
Water resistance
-
none
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
Yes
Yes
Connector
3.5 mm
-
Microphones
1
1
Mic sensitivity
-42 dBV
-

What reviewers said

HyperX Cloud Alpha Air

The HyperX Cloud Alpha Air is a wired, open-back gaming headset that delivers a spacious soundstage and punchy bass through its signature bass tube design. With a comfortable fit, solid build, and detachable cable, it offers a straightforward, high-quality audio experience for gamers who prioritize sound character over wireless convenience. It lacks active noise cancellation and wireless connectivity, but its neutral tuning and durable construction make it a solid premium pick.

  • Pro:Spacious, open-back soundstage
  • Pro:Punchy bass via bass tube technology
  • Pro:Comfortable fit for long sessions
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Wired only, no wireless option
  • Con:Average 97 dB sensitivity may require more volume

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.

Compare something else

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New comparisonHyperX Cloud Alpha AirSteelSeries Arctis Nova 5