Skip to content
HearWiki

HyperX Cloud Stinger Core 7.1 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 Stinger Core 7.1
  • SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5
HearWiki score
53
86
Sound
5.5
8.2
Battery
4.1
9.3
Calls
5.8
8.8
Value
6.3
8.6
Price (USD)
$66
$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 5 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 Multipoint pairing, Custom EQ and Companion app. For 5 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • Cloud Stinger Core 7.12019
  • Arctis Nova 520245 yr newer
What differsCloud Stinger Core 7.1Arctis Nova 5

Everyday features

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

Level on: USB-C.

Specifications

Cloud Stinger Core 7.1Arctis Nova 5
Type
Gaming
Gaming
Price (USD)
$66
$130
HearWiki score
53
86
Released
2019
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
10 Hz - 21 kHz
20 Hz - 22 kHz
Impedance
16 Ω
36 Ω
Sensitivity
103 dB/mW
93 dB/mW
Bluetooth
-
5.3
Codecs
-
SBC, AAC
Multipoint pairing
No
Yes
Wireless range
20 m
9 m
Battery life
17 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
No
Yes
Custom EQ
No
Yes
Wear detection
No
No
Controls
buttons
both
Weight
272 g
265 g
Water resistance
none
none
Foldable
No
-
Detachable cable
No
-
USB-C
Yes
Yes
Microphones
1
1

What reviewers said

HyperX Cloud Stinger Core 7.1

This wireless gaming headset pairs a comfortable, sturdy build with dependable 2.4GHz connectivity and virtual 7.1 surround sound for an immersive experience. It offers around 17 hours of battery life, clear microphone pickup, and solid stereo performance, making it a practical choice for gamers seeking value. While it lacks extras like RGB lighting or a wired 3.5mm option, its core audio and wireless reliability shine for the price.

  • Pro:Comfortable for long gaming sessions
  • Pro:Solid wireless performance with 2.4GHz dongle
  • Pro:Clear voice pickup for multiplayer
  • Con:No wired 3.5mm jack option
  • Con:Lacks RGB lighting
  • Con:No companion app or EQ customization

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

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonHyperX Cloud Stinger Core 7.1SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5