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Razer Kraken V4 X 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.

  • Razer Kraken V4 X
  • SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5
HearWiki score
70
86
Sound
7.1
8.2
Battery
-
9.3
Calls
6.8
8.8
Value
8.0
8.6
Price (USD)
$90
$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

Both shipped in 2024. These are the same generation of hardware - nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price.

  • Kraken V4 X2024
  • Arctis Nova 52024

Level on: USB-C.

Specifications

Kraken V4 XArctis Nova 5
Type
Gaming
Gaming
Price (USD)
$90
$130
HearWiki score
70
86
Released
2024
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
2× 40 mm dynamic
40 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
40 mm
40 mm
Drivers per side
2
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
20 Hz - 22 kHz
Impedance
32 Ω
36 Ω
Sensitivity
96 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
310 g
265 g
Water resistance
-
none
USB-C
Yes
Yes
Connector
USB-C
-
Microphones
1
1

What reviewers said

Razer Kraken V4 X

The Razer Kraken V4 X is a wired USB-C gaming headset that delivers solid, well-rounded performance for its price point. It offers balanced sound quality, particularly enhanced with spatial audio, and features a sturdy build with comfortable ergonomics. While its microphone is serviceable, it doesn't stand out, but overall it remains a reliable choice for gamers seeking a budget-friendly option.

  • Pro:Solid sound quality, especially with spatial audio
  • Pro:Sturdy and comfortable build
  • Pro:Lightweight at 310g for long sessions
  • Con:Microphone quality is average at best
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Limited frequency response range

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 Kraken V4 XSteelSeries Arctis Nova 5