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HyperX Cloud III – Gaming Headset 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 4 of 6 measures.

  • HyperX Cloud III – Gaming Headset
  • SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5
HearWiki score
81
86
Sound
7.2
8.2
Battery
-
9.3
Calls
7.3
8.8
Value
9.0
8.6
Price (USD)
$85
$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?

New platform

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 (2024) against HyperX Cloud III – Gaming Headset (2023). The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 is the newer platform here: Bluetooth 5.3 against 5.2 and Top codec AAC against SBC. It also adds Multipoint pairing, Custom EQ and Companion app.

  • Cloud III – Gaming Headset2023
  • Arctis Nova 520241 yr newer
What differsCloud III – Gaming HeadsetArctis Nova 5

Platform

Bluetooth
5.2
5.3
Top codec
SBC
AAC

Everyday features

Multipoint pairing
No
Yes
Custom EQ
No
Yes
Companion app
No
Yes

Level on: USB-C.

Specifications

Cloud III – Gaming HeadsetArctis Nova 5
Type
Gaming
Gaming
Price (USD)
$85
$130
HearWiki score
81
86
Released
2023
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
10 Hz - 21 kHz
20 Hz - 22 kHz
Impedance
64 Ω
36 Ω
Sensitivity
100 dB/mW
93 dB/mW
Bluetooth
5.2
5.3
Codecs
SBC
SBC, AAC
Multipoint pairing
No
Yes
Wireless range
20 m
9 m
Battery life
120 h
60 h
Full charge time
270 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
No
Yes
Custom EQ
No
Yes
Wear detection
No
No
Controls
buttons
both
Voice assistant
No
-
Weight
330 g
265 g
Water resistance
none
none
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
Yes
Yes
Connector
3.5 mm
-
Model code
9W1Q4AA
-
Microphones
1
1
Microphone type
electret
-
Mic sensitivity
-42 dBV
-
Call noise reduction
Yes
-
Call NR technology
noise-cancelling mic
-

What reviewers said

HyperX Cloud III – Gaming Headset

The HyperX Cloud III is a wired gaming headset that builds on its predecessor's strengths with improved comfort and a clean design. It offers broad compatibility through its 3.5mm jack and USB-C DAC, making it a versatile pick for consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. With a lightweight feel and clear, well-balanced sound, it's a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers who prioritize practicality over extra features.

  • Pro:Very comfortable for long sessions
  • Pro:Wide device compatibility with USB-C and 3.5mm
  • Pro:Clear and balanced audio for gaming
  • Con:No active noise cancellation or wireless option
  • Con:Only SBC codec, no multipoint
  • Con:Limited to button controls without custom EQ

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 III – Gaming HeadsetSteelSeries Arctis Nova 5