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HyperX Cloud Mix 2 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.

Neither pulls ahead overall - they trade wins across the measures.

  • HyperX Cloud Mix 2
  • SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5
HearWiki score
77
86
Sound
8.2
8.2
Noise cancelling
5.3
-
Battery
9.7
9.3
Calls
5.2
8.8
Value
9.0
8.6
Price (USD)
$140
$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

Both shipped in 2024. The HyperX Cloud Mix 2 is the newer platform here: Top codec LC3 against AAC, LE Audio (LC3) and ANC type Hybrid against None. It also adds Transparency mode.

  • Cloud Mix 22024
  • Arctis Nova 52024
What differsCloud Mix 2Arctis Nova 5

Platform

Top codec
LC3
AAC
LE Audio (LC3)
Yes
No
ANC type
Hybrid
None

Everyday features

Transparency mode
Yes
No

Level on: Bluetooth, USB-C.

Specifications

Cloud Mix 2Arctis Nova 5
Type
Gaming
Gaming
Price (USD)
$140
$130
HearWiki score
77
86
Released
2024
2024
Availability
Still 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
32 Ω
36 Ω
Sensitivity
97 dB/mW
93 dB/mW
Bluetooth
5.3
5.3
Codecs
SBC, AAC, LC3
SBC, AAC
Multipoint pairing
-
Yes
Wireless range
-
9 m
Battery life
110 h
60 h
Battery life (ANC on)
70 h
-
Full charge time
180 min
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
Custom EQ
-
Yes
Wear detection
-
No
Controls
buttons
both
Weight
267.6 g
265 g
Water resistance
none
none
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
Yes
Yes
Microphones
1
1
Call noise reduction
Yes
-
Call NR technology
AI ENC
-

What reviewers said

HyperX Cloud Mix 2

The HyperX Cloud Mix 2 is a versatile over-ear gaming headset that blends wireless Bluetooth 5.3 with a detachable boom mic and hybrid active noise cancellation. It offers a long-lasting battery, wired USB-C or 3.5mm options, and supports modern audio codecs for flexible use across gaming and daily listening. Weighing under 270 grams, it aims to deliver comfort and connectivity without being overly heavy.

  • Pro:Hybrid active noise cancellation with a transparency mode
  • Pro:Detachable microphone and wired USB-C connection for versatility
  • Pro:Lightweight design at 267.6 grams for extended wear
  • Con:No water resistance rating
  • Con:Only one microphone for calls and gaming
  • Con:No wireless charging support

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 Mix 2SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5