Compare SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Gaming Headset vs Audeze Maxwell

ANC is effective for steady noises like HVAC, fans, and general room hum, and many find it meaningful for immersion. It is also commonly described as weaker than top consumer ANC headphones and may vary with fit, comfort, or long-term wear. You can toggle ANC and often adjust transparency, but control over ANC strength itself is limited in some reports. Overall, adjustability is seen as useful but not as granular as premium travel headphones.

Reviewers consistently noted that the Maxwell lacks active noise cancellation, so isolation depends on the closed-back pads rather than ANC processing.

Android support is present through Audeze HQ, but mobile EQ/app behavior was described as limited or inconsistent in one review.

SteelSeries GG and Sonar are praised for power and depth, especially for audio routing, EQ, and mic processing. At the same time, multiple reviewers complain about updater friction, UI clutter, or limitations on non-PC platforms.

The Audeze HQ app supports battery, firmware, sidetone, and EQ controls, but reviewers often called it barebones, clunky, buggy, or incomplete.

Reviews that discuss codecs indicate aptX is not supported for Bluetooth playback.

Wireless audio-video sync was generally praised, with reviewers reporting minimal lag or no noticeable delay during gaming and media playback.

Bass is typically slightly boosted yet controlled, giving impact for games and music without turning muddy. Several reviewers note it does not become subwoofer-like even with EQ, but it stays punchy and clean.

Bass performance drew strong praise for punch, control, definition, and sub-bass impact without overwhelming the rest of the mix.

Per-battery runtime is commonly cited around 18 to 22 hours, with some reports of higher depending on mode and settings. Even when batteries age, the dual-battery system makes downtime rare. The hot-swappable, replaceable battery system is widely viewed as best-in-class and a primary reason to buy. It effectively eliminates charging downtime and should extend the headset’s usable lifespan.

Battery life was one of the strongest points, with reviewers repeatedly confirming very long runtimes near the advertised 80-hour range.

Bluetooth is often stable for basic listening, but multiple long-term users report annoying device switching behavior and occasional glitches or brief distortion. Overall stability is good, yet not flawless across every phone and PC setup.

Bluetooth support is modern and useful, with Bluetooth 5.3 and strong codec support, though some reviewers preferred the dongle for gaming.

Build quality is routinely described as premium and sturdy, combining metal structure with solid plastics. Multi-year owners report the headset holds up well with minimal visible wear.

Build quality was mostly praised for metal construction and sturdy materials, but a few reviewers raised concerns about early-unit durability or headband parts.

Reviewers noted internal DSP/DAC handling and high-resolution digital playback, making the headset work without external DAC equipment.

On-head controls are generally praised for being well-spaced, tactile, and easy to find, with a clear mic-mute indicator. A common nitpick is the lack of a quick mute for headset audio on the wireless model.

Physical controls were generally appreciated, though reviewers were split between calling them clever and finding the multi-function layout confusing.

Cable quality received only limited attention, with one reviewer describing the USB-C cable as basic but functional.

The Maxwell does not include a carrying case, which reviewers considered a drawback for a premium and bulky headset.

Charging is highly convenient because the base station charges a spare battery while you play, enabling quick swaps. USB-C charging exists for travel, but several reviewers call its placement awkward and use it less often.

Charging was praised for fast top-ups, with multiple reviewers noting that short charging sessions restore many hours of playback.

Clamping is generally described as snug to support isolation and ANC, with many finding it comfortable after break-in. Larger heads or pressure-sensitive users may notice the clamp more than average.

Clamp was usually comfortable or light despite the headset’s size, although one reviewer initially found the fit somewhat clamp-like.

Codec support is treated as functional rather than audiophile-focused, with stability and latency prioritized over high-res Bluetooth features. If you care about premium Bluetooth codecs, this is not the headset’s main strength.

Codec support was a clear strength, with reviewers citing LDAC, LE Audio, LC3/LC3plus, AAC, and SBC support.

Long-session comfort is a strong point for many thanks to the suspension strap and balanced weight. The most common drawbacks are warm leatherette pads, clamping that may need break-in, and a minority comfort issue tied to the inner ANC mic nub for certain ear shapes.

Long-session comfort was mixed-positive: several reviewers wore it for hours, but heat, bulk, and weight remained recurring caveats.

Connectivity versatility was a major strength, with dongle, Bluetooth, USB-C, and analog options across gaming and everyday use.

Console compatibility depends on variant; reviewers repeatedly warned that PlayStation and Xbox wireless support are not fully interchangeable.

The design is widely liked for looking sleek and not overly gamer-styled, making it plausible as everyday headphones. Customization options like alternate plates/headbands are also mentioned as a nice bonus.

The design was described as understated, sleek, and premium rather than flashy, though several reviewers also noted its bulk.

The retractable boom mic is convenient and keeps the headset looking clean when not in use. Several reviewers note the mechanism can feel stiff, and audio quality is very poor if you try to use the mic fully retracted.

The detachable boom mic was praised as convenient because the headset can be used more like regular headphones when the mic is removed.

The base station/DAC is a signature feature that centralizes settings, battery charging, and input switching with an OLED screen. A recurring complaint is that the unit is light, so pressing the knob can require a stabilizing hand.

The dongle was often praised for low-latency wireless, but one review noted USB-related artifacting and finicky behavior.

The pads provide a solid seal and feel plush, but heat buildup is frequently mentioned. Some users also call the stock pads thin or prefer aftermarket options for better depth and comfort.

Earpad quality was generally strong, with reviewers praising plushness and seal, while some noted heat or a desire for velour/cooling pads.

The earcups swivel enough to help fit and let the headset lay flat, which reviewers appreciate. Wearing it around the neck can feel tight for some users despite the swivel.

The earcups swivel enough for storage or neck wear, and reviewers found the rotation comfortable and practical.

Earpad replacement was praised as easy, with multiple reviews noting twist-off or easily removable pads.

EQ control is a major strength, ranging from simple presets to deep parametric adjustments in Sonar. Several reviewers say EQ changes are clearly audible and can tailor the headset for specific games and music tastes.

EQ customization was a strong feature, with 10-band or custom profiles helping tune the Maxwell for music, games, and personal preference.

Fit and seal were generally reliable, with reviewers crediting the pads and clamp for a solid passive seal.

Footstep-focused EQ support exists and can help emphasize cues, though competitive-gaming opinions were mixed.

Measured or described tuning is close to neutral with a modest bass lift and some upper-mid/treble shaping. Most agree it responds very well to EQ if you want to fine-tune accuracy.

Frequency response accuracy was praised by audio-focused reviewers for close target matching, linear bass/mids, and well-controlled tuning.

Game and chat balancing is one of the headset’s standout features, available via the base station and supported by Sonar routing. The common caveat is that the chat output path can sound less hi-fi than the main game/media path.

Game/chat balance control was valued on the headset and in software, though one reviewer saw app changes undo themselves.

Adjustability is improved with telescoping arms and a multi-position suspension strap, helping it fit a wide range of head sizes. Several large-head reviewers explicitly call the new fit more forgiving than older Arctis designs.

Headband adjustability was one of the most common ergonomic complaints because the notch/strap system offers limited fine adjustment.

Overall construction is viewed as robust, but multiple reviewers still flag plastic hinges/slides as the main long-term durability question. Most concerns are preventative rather than reports of actual failures.

Hinge/headband durability was mixed, with one early unit reportedly breaking and another review flagging long-term durability concerns.

Included accessories are typically generous for a gaming headset, commonly including two batteries, multiple cables, a pop filter, and a carry bag. Some also mention optional accessory kits for cosmetic customization.

Included accessories were strong overall, with the dongle, boom mic, USB-C cable, adapter, and analog cable commonly mentioned.

Instrument and cue separation is a highlight, repeatedly praised for pulling out fine details like footsteps and layered music elements. Multiple reviewers describe the sound as precise rather than just loud.

Instrument separation was a repeated strength, with reviewers praising distinct instruments, layered game audio, and detail retrieval.

Integrated microphone performance was usually weak compared with the detachable boom mic, despite being useful for convenience.

Reviews that discuss codecs indicate LDAC is not supported for Bluetooth playback.

LDAC support was repeatedly confirmed and praised as part of the Maxwell’s high-quality Bluetooth feature set.

At very high volumes, the headset is reported to keep bass hits and transients clear without obvious distortion. This is repeatedly cited as a premium trait versus cheaper wireless headsets.

Maximum-volume clarity was strong, with reviewers noting clean sound at high volume and no grating or crunchy highs.

Microphone impressions were mixed-positive: the boom mic was good for gaming and calls, while some found it muffled or merely serviceable.

Noise reduction features like ClearCast AI, noise gates, and smart leveling are often effective at cutting fan noise, birds, and keyboard clatter. A few still notice minor wireless artifacts or remaining background hiss depending on settings.

Microphone noise reduction was widely praised for blocking keyboards, background noise, and other distractions while preserving speech.

For chat and work calls, the boom mic is generally serviceable to good, especially once Sonar presets and processing are applied. Out of the box, several users describe it as quiet, compressed, or just average for the price.

Call and voice clarity were praised in the reviews that tested the boom mic directly, especially compared with typical headset microphones.

Midrange stays clear enough for dialogue and positional cues, and most do not describe it as muddy. A recurring note is that the secondary chat driver sounds less refined than the main audio driver.

Midrange clarity was generally good, with several reviewers praising clear mids and vocal presence, though one noted recessed mids in a V-shaped tuning.

Compatibility is broad across PC, PlayStation, Switch, and mobile Bluetooth use. Xbox support depends on buying the Xbox-specific version, which also influences how the two USB ports on the base station are labeled/used.

The Xbox version was singled out as the most cross-platform option when used across Xbox, PC, and PlayStation.

The dual-USB base station plus Bluetooth mixing is repeatedly called a standout for reliability and convenience. The main pain points are juggling source volumes and, in some cases, awkward switching between Bluetooth devices or modes.

Multipoint and dual-connection behavior was one of the weakest areas, with reviewers often frustrated by no simultaneous Bluetooth plus dongle playback.

Passive isolation is strong for a closed-back gaming headset thanks to the leatherette seal. Several users note it remains effective even when ANC performance is only average or turned off.

Passive isolation was generally good to excellent thanks to the closed-back earcups and pads, though one reviewer found it weak versus ANC headphones.

Packaging was only briefly discussed, but one reviewer described it as luxurious and premium.

Portability was limited by bulk and weight; the earcups can fold flat, but reviewers did not consider it travel-friendly.

Positional audio was usually strong, especially for footsteps, direction, and distance, although one review found competitive cues weaker than rivals.

Preset profiles are widely considered useful, with game-specific options that emphasize cues and clarity. Some presets can sound aggressive or require small tweaks to avoid over-bright or over-scooped results.

Preset EQ profiles were mixed: reviewers liked the presence of gaming presets, but some found several presets poor for music.

Replaceability is reported inconsistently: some sources describe the stock earpads as not user-swappable, while others treat pad swapping as straightforward and many owners use aftermarket pads. In practice, assume you can refresh comfort, but details may depend on model, pad choice, and how you define replaceable.

Replaceable earpads were praised, with reviewers noting detachable or removable pads and third-party pad possibilities.

RGB customization is effectively absent, matching the Maxwell’s understated design rather than gamer lighting.

Sensor evidence was limited to head-tracking hardware support noted in one review.

Sidetone is adjustable through the base station and software, helping you monitor your speaking volume. A few reviewers note it can still feel too quiet even at maximum.

Sidetone was a repeated problem area, with reviewers citing static, interference, exaggerated sound, or poor execution.

The magnetic side plates tend to collect dust, fingerprints, and gunk, and some finishes feel easy to scuff. Expect occasional wiping if aesthetics matter.

Basic setup is usually easy, but optimal results often require firmware updates and some Sonar configuration. Several reviewers also note that key Sonar features are PC-centric and may not fully carry over to every console use case.

Setup/software simplicity was mixed: some setup steps were easy, but software behavior and mobile reliability were recurring drawbacks.

Across reviews, sound is consistently described as detailed and competitive for imaging, with a generally balanced tuning. Many note it sounds best after Sonar EQ or presets, but it is still strong out of the box.

Sound quality was the strongest consensus point, with reviewers repeatedly calling the Maxwell one of the best-sounding wireless gaming headsets.

Imaging is strong, but the perceived stage is not described as unusually wide. Spatial processing and per-game profiles can make the presentation feel more speaker-like when desired.

Soundstage was generally good for a closed-back headset, though opinions ranged from not outstanding to wide and immersive.

Spatial audio is frequently praised for convincing directionality and improved immersion, with support for common platform surround options and Sonar processing on PC. Competitive players like the imaging, while some prefer to dial effects back for pure stereo accuracy.

Spatial audio support was praised through PS5 Tempest 3D and Xbox/Dolby Atmos features, especially for immersion.

Wireless performance is often described as rock solid and low-latency, especially on 2.4GHz through the base station. A minority report rare dropouts, glitch noises, or occasional reconnect events over long-term use.

Wireless stability and range were strong in the reviews that tested coverage, with impressive house-wide or long-range performance.

Touch controls are not part of the control scheme; the headset relies on physical buttons and dials instead.

Transparency can be genuinely useful for hearing the room, but some reviewers find it amplifies noise or adds a bit of hiss. Most treat it as a situational feature rather than something left on all the time.

Transparency mode evidence was limited but positive in one review, which found it realistic and not harsh.

Treble is usually called clear and detailed without harshness, though some report slight blunting or hissy cymbals on certain tracks. EQ can brighten the top end if you want more sparkle.

Treble was generally controlled, clear, and detailed, though a few reviewers found stock tuning bright or needing EQ.

USB-C connectivity is a big part of the ecosystem, including dual USB inputs on the base station and USB-C charging/update access on the headset. Some users miss the optical input found on earlier generations, but most prefer the modern USB setup.

USB-C was a practical strength for audio, charging, dongle use, and broad device support.

Value for money was widely praised because reviewers felt the Maxwell competes with more expensive headphones on sound quality.

Overall output is loud with plenty of headroom, and reviewers report it stays composed at higher volumes. A minority mention odd Bluetooth volume stepping depending on the phone/device.

Volume output was strong, with reviewers noting plenty of loudness and substantial headroom.

Despite being a feature-packed wireless headset, most reviewers find the weight well balanced and comfortable over long sessions. A few note it is not the lightest, but the suspension strap helps prevent pressure hot spots.

Weight comfort was mixed: reviewers repeatedly noted the 490–500g heft but often said the suspension design made it manageable.

Wireless latency was usually strong through the dongle, though Bluetooth latency and rare lag/artifact issues were noted.

When you have the Xbox version, Xbox connectivity is solid and is frequently recommended even for PlayStation-first buyers. The PlayStation version is commonly described as not working with Xbox consoles.

Xbox compatibility was best with the Xbox version, while PlayStation-version wireless Xbox support was repeatedly limited or unavailable.