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HyperX Cloud II Wireless 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.

  • HyperX Cloud II Wireless
  • SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5
HearWiki score
64
86
Sound
7.4
8.2
Battery
5.8
9.3
Calls
6.8
8.8
Value
-
8.6
Price (USD)
$120
$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

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 (2024) against HyperX Cloud II Wireless (2020). The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 edges ahead on platform, but only just: Top codec AAC against SBC. It also adds Multipoint pairing.

  • Cloud II Wireless2020
  • Arctis Nova 520244 yr newer
What differsCloud II WirelessArctis Nova 5

Platform

Top codec
SBC
AAC

Everyday features

Multipoint pairing
No
Yes

Level on: USB-C, Custom EQ, Companion app.

Specifications

Cloud II WirelessArctis Nova 5
Type
Gaming
Gaming
Price (USD)
$120
$130
HearWiki score
64
86
Released
2020
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
53 mm dynamic
40 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
53 mm
40 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
15 Hz - 20 kHz
20 Hz - 22 kHz
Impedance
60 Ω
36 Ω
Sensitivity
104 dB/mW
93 dB/mW
Bluetooth
-
5.3
Codecs
SBC
SBC, AAC
Multipoint pairing
No
Yes
Wireless range
-
9 m
Battery life
30 h
60 h
Full charge time
180 min
15 min
Quick charge
-
15 min → 6 h
Wireless charging
No
No
Active noise cancelling
No
No
ANC type
none
none
Transparency mode
No
No
Companion app
Yes
Yes
Custom EQ
Yes
Yes
Wear detection
No
No
Controls
buttons
both
Weight
301 g
265 g
Water resistance
none
none
USB-C
Yes
Yes
Microphones
1
1

What reviewers said

HyperX Cloud II Wireless

The HyperX Cloud II Wireless is a straightforward gaming headset that delivers reliable, neutral-leaning audio with a slight bass emphasis, making it well-suited for gaming and casual listening. Its 30-hour battery life, comfortable build, and easy plug-and-play setup are its standout traits, though it lacks advanced features like ANC, multipoint, and robust EQ customization. Overall, it excels at core basics rather than offering premium flexibility.

  • Pro:Comfortable and sturdy build
  • Pro:Long 30-hour battery life
  • Pro:Simple wireless setup with stable connection
  • Con:Uneven treble and limited soundstage
  • Con:No active noise cancellation or transparency mode
  • Con:Only SBC codec and no multipoint

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 comparisonHyperX Cloud II WirelessSteelSeries Arctis Nova 5