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Razer BlackShark V3 Pro vs SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 87. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Razer BlackShark V3 Pro - Outstanding overall at around $250.

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.

  • Razer BlackShark V3 Pro
  • SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5
HearWiki score
87
86
Sound
8.7
8.2
Noise cancelling
7.8
-
Battery
9.0
9.3
Calls
8.8
8.8
Value
7.5
8.6
Price (USD)
$250
$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?

Mixed generations

Razer BlackShark V3 Pro (2025) against SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 (2024). Neither is straightforwardly newer: the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro brings ANC type Hybrid against None, while the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 answers with Bluetooth 5.3 against 4.0. The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro answers on convenience features: it adds Transparency mode.

  • BlackShark V3 Pro20251 yr newer
  • Arctis Nova 52024
What differsBlackShark V3 ProArctis Nova 5

Platform

Bluetooth
4.0
5.3
ANC type
Hybrid
None

Everyday features

Transparency mode
Yes
No

Level on: Top codec, Multipoint pairing, USB-C, Custom EQ, Companion app.

Specifications

BlackShark V3 ProArctis Nova 5
Type
Gaming
Gaming
Price (USD)
$250
$130
HearWiki score
87
86
Released
2025
2024
Availability
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
1
Frequency response
12 Hz - 28 kHz
20 Hz - 22 kHz
Impedance
32 Ω
36 Ω
Sensitivity
108 dB/mW
93 dB/mW
Bluetooth
4.0
5.3
Codecs
SBC, AAC
SBC, AAC
Multipoint pairing
Yes
Yes
Latency
10 ms
-
Wireless range
10 m
9 m
Battery life
70 h
60 h
Battery life (ANC on)
48 h
-
Full charge time
-
15 min
Quick charge
10 min → 6 h
15 min → 6 h
Wireless charging
No
No
Active noise cancelling
Yes
No
ANC type
hybrid
none
Transparency mode
Yes
No
Companion app
Yes
Yes
Custom EQ
Yes
Yes
Wear detection
No
No
Controls
both
both
Weight
367 g
265 g
Water resistance
-
none
USB-C
Yes
Yes
Microphones
1
1

What reviewers said

Razer BlackShark V3 Pro

The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro is a wireless gaming headset that pairs a long-lasting battery with hybrid active noise cancellation for focused play sessions. It features 50mm dynamic drivers, Bluetooth with multipoint support, and a low-latency design, making it a versatile option for both gaming and everyday use. Its lightweight build and customizable EQ add to its appeal for extended comfort and personalized sound.

  • Pro:Hybrid ANC for immersive gaming
  • Pro:Up to 70 hours of battery life
  • Pro:Multipoint Bluetooth connectivity
  • Con:Heavier than some rivals at 367g
  • Con:No wireless charging support
  • Con:Only one microphone for communication

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 comparisonRazer BlackShark V3 ProSteelSeries Arctis Nova 5