Compare SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Gaming Headset vs Audeze Maxwell

There is no active noise canceling, and multiple reviews call it a missing feature if you plan to use the headset in noisy environments.

Multiple reviews explicitly state there is no active noise cancellation, so the Maxwell relies on passive isolation instead of ANC.

Reviews say the headset works with Android and that Android users can access Audeze HQ features there.

The companion apps (Arctis mobile app and SteelSeries GG/Sonar on PC) are a major differentiator, enabling presets, mic settings, sidetone, and firmware updates; PC features are usually deeper than mobile.

Audeze HQ offers useful controls and updates, but reviewers repeatedly describe the app/software as basic, primitive, or inconsistent.

The 2.4GHz dongle mode is repeatedly praised for low-latency gaming and quick switching between wireless modes, keeping audio and on-screen action in sync.

Reviewers generally report no noticeable lag or delay during games and media playback, suggesting sync is reliable in normal use.

Bass is generally punchy and satisfying once tuned, but several impressions note either less sub-bass/thump than premium sets or a stock mid-bass emphasis that can sound a bit boxy until EQ is applied.

Bass is a major strength, with repeated praise for punch, sub-bass presence, and control rather than muddy low-end.

Battery life is commonly cited around 30 hours on 2.4GHz and about 40 hours on Bluetooth, though at least one standardized test reported notably lower 2.4GHz runtime.

Battery life is consistently described as exceptional, with roughly 80 hours of use and fast charging that quickly restores long sessions.

Bluetooth performance is generally stable with painless switching between devices, and Bluetooth 5.3 is frequently cited across reviews. True simultaneous 2.4GHz plus Bluetooth audio is generally not the norm here; most usage centers on quick-switching, with any simultaneous behavior being limited or platform-dependent.

Bluetooth support is broad and generally strong, though some reviews note switching behavior and dual-wireless playback limitations.

Build is largely plastic to keep weight down; many reviewers still find it sturdy, but some describe a cheaper in-hand feel and surfaces that can show wear more readily.

Build quality is widely praised for premium materials and sturdiness, though at least one review flags early-unit durability concerns.

The Maxwell’s internal DAC and high-resolution playback support are highlighted as part of its strong digital audio feature set.

Controls cover the essentials (mute, volume, quick-switch), but chat-mix and multifunction control schemes can be less intuitive than headsets with dedicated wheels or simpler routing.

Physical controls are usually described as thoughtful and usable once learned, even if some reviewers find the layout a bit crowded.

Cables get mixed feedback: they work, but several reviews complain about short lengths, stiffness, or a proprietary feel that is less convenient than standard cables.

The included USB-C cable is serviceable, but at least one review calls it very basic rather than premium.

A high-end carrying case is not included, and at least one reviewer specifically calls out the absence of any carrying case or bag.

Fast charging is consistently highlighted, commonly framed as about 15 minutes of charging for around 9 hours of use.

Charging is a strong point, with quick-charge support repeatedly described as delivering many hours of playback from a short top-up.

Clamp is generally secure for gaming; some describe it as snug or tight at first, while others like the stability and seal it creates.

Clamp force is generally comfortable and secure, though impressions vary between firm, light, and moderately snug depending on reviewer fit.

Where codecs are discussed, Bluetooth support is basic (AAC/SBC), prioritizing broad compatibility over advanced high-bitrate options.

Codec support is a strength, with reviews citing LDAC, LE Audio, LC3/LC3plus, AAC, and other modern wireless options.

Comfort is a standout theme: the headset is very light and the suspension-style headband spreads pressure well for long sessions, though a few users report heat or fabric scratchiness depending on pads and fit.

Despite the heavy frame, long-session comfort is usually rated good thanks to padding and weight distribution.

The Maxwell stands out for connection flexibility, with reviewers repeatedly noting wired, dongle, Bluetooth, and USB-C options.

Platform support is broad, but multiple reviews warn that version-specific console support creates real limitations for some wireless use cases.

Design feedback is mostly positive thanks to clean lines and fun color options (like aqua and lavender), with the main critique being that the mostly plastic shell can look or feel less premium.

The design is usually described as sleek, understated, and premium rather than flashy.

Detachable/replaceable cables are appreciated on the wired versions for longevity and easy swapping between USB-C, USB-A, and 3.5mm setups.

Detachable wired connections add flexibility, with reviewers valuing the included 3.5mm and USB-C listening options.

The detachable boom mic is convenient for travel or a cleaner look, but some users prefer retractable designs to avoid misplacing the mic.

The detachable boom mic is frequently treated as a convenience feature because it makes the headset easier to use outside dedicated gaming.

The slim USB-C 2.4GHz dongle is a key strength for low-latency play and broad device support; a few notes mention port-blocking in tight spaces or wishing for better storage for the dongle.

The dongle usually performs well and enables key wireless features, but some reviewers report occasional finickiness or port sensitivity.

Breathable fabric or AirWeave-style pads are widely praised for comfort, but some describe them as stiffer or less plush than premium earpads, and a few note warmth or texture over time.

Earpads are commonly described as plush, soft, or dense, though heat buildup can become noticeable over time.

Earcups typically swivel and can lay flatter for fit and storage, helping comfort and making it easier to rest the headset around the neck or pack it away.

The earcups offer useful swivel movement for neck rest and storage, though this is not a standout selling point.

Earpad replacement is easy, with multiple reviewers describing removal and swapping as simple or quick.

EQ flexibility depends on platform: PC Sonar can be highly adjustable (including parametric-style tuning), while the mobile app is often more preset-driven with simpler tone controls.

Custom EQ is available and meaningful, giving users room to tune the headset, even though the software interface is not universally loved.

Reviews suggest the headset seals reliably for most users, helping both comfort and passive isolation.

The Footsteps-style EQ options are described as making key cues easier to notice, especially in competitive games.

Reviewers praise the Maxwell’s tuning and measurement focus, often describing it as accurate or unusually well-aligned for a gaming headset.

Game/chat balancing is available via Sonar or headset controls, but the experience can feel finicky compared with headsets that have a dedicated, separate chat-mix wheel.

Game/chat balance is a real feature advantage, with both onboard controls and software support called useful in practice.

The ski-goggle or elastic suspension headband design is effective, but adjustments can feel stiff, and some larger heads may find the sizing range more limited than expected.

Headband adjustment works, but reviewers regularly say the system is limited, coarse, or awkward to change.

Durability impressions are mixed: some reviewers praise long-term sturdiness, while another reports a serious hinge-related failure on an early unit.

Box contents typically cover the basics (dongle and charging cable), and wired versions often include multiple adapter cables; some reviewers wish included cables were longer or more convenient.

The included accessory bundle is generally considered solid, covering the boom mic, dongle, adapter, and required cables.

Separation is adequate for the price, but busy scenes can blend together compared with premium drivers, which can reduce clarity when lots of effects stack up at once.

Instrument separation is a strong point, with reviewers praising the headset’s ability to pull apart layers and individual elements.

Built-in microphones add convenience, but they are usually judged clearly weaker than the detachable boom mic.

LDAC support is directly highlighted in several reviews as a notable audio-quality advantage over Bluetooth.

At very high volumes, bass-heavy tracks remain controlled with minimal distortion in testing, helping the headset stay clear when pushed loud.

Even at high output, reviewers say the headset stays controlled rather than harsh, with plenty of headroom available.

The detachable microphone is generally viewed as good to solid for headset use, though not on the level of a dedicated standalone mic.

Noise handling is a strong point: software options (including AI-style noise reduction where available) and mic tuning help cut distractions like keyboard noise and room sounds in typical gaming/office use.

Microphone noise reduction is one of the headset’s strongest communication features, with repeated praise for blocking keyboard and background noise.

The ClearCast boom mic is generally clear enough for party chat, Zoom, and calls, but it can sound slightly fuzzy or less crisp than the microphones on step-up models or a standalone mic.

Call quality is acceptable to strong depending on setup, with the detachable boom mic performing much better than the internal mic array.

Dialogue and vocals come through clearly for gaming and media, though some tunings sound slightly recessed in the mids until a preset or EQ profile is enabled.

Midrange performance is usually described as clear and present, though some reviewers still prefer EQ tweaks for their own taste.

Compatibility is a strong point across PC, PlayStation, Switch/handhelds, and mobile; the main caveat is selecting the correct variant for Xbox wireless needs.

Reviewers repeatedly describe the Maxwell as broadly compatible across PC, console, phone, and other common source devices.

Multipoint behavior is limited and inconsistent across platforms: many users should expect to switch sources rather than rely on seamless multi-device audio at the same time.

Multipoint support is present and useful, though the broader wireless switching behavior is not universally praised.

Passive isolation is average: it reduces some higher-frequency noise but leaves plenty of awareness of your environment, and at least one review warns sound leakage can be noticeable.

Passive isolation is consistently rated good to very good, helping compensate for the lack of ANC.

Packaging gets positive notes for feeling premium, organized, or well-protected out of the box.

Portability is helped by swivel-flat earcups and (on wireless models) a detachable mic, but average isolation and occasional sound leakage mean it is better suited to home or quiet travel than noisy commutes.

Portability is helped by folding/swiveling earcups, but the headset’s size and weight still make it less travel-friendly than smaller rivals.

Positional audio is a clear strength, with repeated praise for hearing direction, placement, footsteps, and other in-game cues.

Game-specific presets are a headline feature and frequently improve footsteps, weapon cues, and dialogue clarity; not every preset is dramatic, but the library depth is a consistent positive.

Preset EQ quality is mixed: some presets are useful, especially Footsteps, while others are viewed as unnecessary or not ideal for music.

Earpads are removable and replaceable, which helps maintenance and allows upgrades to improve isolation or comfort.

Replaceable earpads are a real practical benefit, and multiple reviews note that swapping them is straightforward.

RGB features are prominent on the wired model (customizable via software and easy to disable), while wireless models lean more on physical colorways than flashy lighting.

There is no RGB lighting system here, and one reviewer explicitly frames the headset’s look as intentionally non-RGB and understated.

Sensor support is lightly evidenced through built-in head-tracking hardware mentioned in Dolby Atmos Renderer support.

Sidetone (mic monitoring) is available and adjustable; some like its clarity, while others find the default-on behavior odd until it is dialed back in the app.

Sidetone/transparency adjustment is inconsistent across reviews, with some calling it excellent and others saying it is noisy or effectively unusable.

Materials and finishes vary: some surfaces resist fingerprints well, but other plastics and coatings can show scratches or wear if handled roughly.

Software can be powerful but not always seamless: PC Sonar features add complexity to system audio routing for some, while the mobile app experience is simpler and more 'all upside' for console use.

Basic setup is often easy, but the software experience ranges from merely simple to clearly buggy or incomplete depending on platform and firmware.

Overall sound is strong for the price and tends to improve noticeably with presets/EQ; out of the box it can sound flatter or less lively than pricier models, and it is not as resolving in complex scenes as flagship headsets. In wired use (USB/3.5mm on the wired model), sound stays consistent across connections; USB is mainly about enabling software features and RGB rather than a dramatic sonic transformation.

Sound quality is the Maxwell’s defining strength, with multiple reviewers calling it class-leading or the best-sounding gaming headset in its bracket.

Soundstage and immersion are respectable for a budget headset, with solid directional cues, but it does not fully 'wrap around' the way higher-end models can.

Soundstage is widely considered spacious for a closed-back headset, even if a few reviewers stop short of calling it exceptional.

Spatial/positional audio support and tuned presets help competitive play, making footsteps and directional cues easier to place, though overall immersion still trails top-tier headsets.

Spatial audio support is a meaningful bonus through Tempest 3D and Dolby Atmos depending on platform version.

General stability is good, with praise for both stable fit and reliable wireless behavior in normal use.

Transparency-style passthrough is divisive: one review praises realism, while others describe sidetone/transparency behavior as noisy or poor.

Treble varies by tuning: some reviews describe softer highs, while others note brighter peaks that can be fatiguing; presets and EQ help balance sparkle versus harshness.

Treble is usually described as clear and controlled rather than harsh, although tuning preference still varies by reviewer.

USB-C is central for charging and connectivity, and adapters are commonly included to support USB-A or other setups depending on model and use case.

USB-C is important to the Maxwell’s versatility for charging, digital audio, and included accessory support.

Value for money is one of the strongest consensus positives, with reviewers repeatedly saying the audio performance justifies the price.

Volume is typically sufficient for gaming, but some note it is quieter out of the box or lower-sensitivity than rivals; software settings and volume boost can help, and high volumes may worsen sound leak in public spaces.

Volume output is extremely strong, with multiple reviewers noting that the headset gets very loud and still retains usable headroom.

Weight is repeatedly described as extremely light for an over-ear gaming headset (often around 250-260g), which helps reduce fatigue over multi-hour use.

The Maxwell is undeniably heavy, but several reviewers still say the weight is manageable once the fit is dialed in.

Wireless latency is generally praised, with low-latency dongle use repeatedly described as responsive enough for gaming.

Xbox support is tied to the 3X variant and its dongle switch, while other versions focus on PlayStation; choosing the right model matters if you want wireless Xbox compatibility.

Xbox support depends on version, with the Xbox model offering the fullest compatibility while PlayStation units lose wireless Xbox support.