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HyperX Cloud Revolver S 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 Revolver S
  • SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5
HearWiki score
62
86
Sound
7.1
8.2
Battery
-
9.3
Calls
7.2
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?

Same generation

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 is 4 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. The platform is level; the newer hardware shows up in convenience features instead - the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 adds USB-C. For 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • Cloud Revolver S2020
  • Arctis Nova 520244 yr newer
What differsCloud Revolver SArctis Nova 5

Everyday features

USB-C
No
Yes

Specifications

Cloud Revolver SArctis Nova 5
Type
Gaming
Gaming
Price (USD)
$120
$130
HearWiki score
62
86
Released
2020
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
Frequency response
12 Hz - 28 kHz
20 Hz - 22 kHz
Impedance
30 Ω
36 Ω
Sensitivity
100.5 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
buttons
both
Weight
360 g
265 g
Water resistance
-
none
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
No
Yes
Microphones
-
1
Mic sensitivity
-40 dBV
-

What reviewers said

HyperX Cloud Revolver S

The HyperX Cloud Revolver S is a wired gaming headset that combines a sturdy 50mm dynamic driver setup with virtual 7.1 surround sound, accessible via its included USB sound card. It offers flexible connectivity through USB or 3.5mm jacks, along with a detachable cable and on-ear controls, making it a feature-rich option for gamers. While it delivers comfortable padding and solid audio quality, some users may find the long cable and finicky mic positioning to be minor inconveniences.

  • Pro:Excellent all-day comfort with plush ear cushions
  • Pro:Virtual 7.1 surround for immersive gaming audio
  • Pro:Detachable cable and versatile USB/3.5mm connectivity
  • Con:Cable is excessively long and can be cumbersome
  • Con:Microphone positioning is finicky and requires adjustment
  • Con:Virtual surround is only average compared to dedicated solutions

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 Revolver SSteelSeries Arctis Nova 5