Compare Cooler Master CH351 Gaming Headset vs SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Gaming Headset

There is no strong case for active noise canceling here; one included review flatly says the headset is not noise-canceling.

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

Android support is explicitly listed for the CH351, making mobile pairing part of its intended use case.

Software support is inconsistent in the included reviews, ranging from no companion app at all to optional PC software on another Cooler Master unit.

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.

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.

Bass is a recurring strength, delivering weighty explosions and energetic low end without fully burying other cues.

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.

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.

Wireless stability is the CH351's biggest weakness, with persistent static and buzzing reported even during active use.

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.

Material quality looks decent for the money, though not every component feels equally premium.

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.

Control usability varies sharply, from simple inline buttons on one review unit to a crowded, error-prone earcup layout on the other.

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.

The CH331's permanently attached fabric-wrapped cable is long, practical for desk use and presented as a solid part of the package.

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.

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

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

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

Long-session comfort is mixed: soft pads help, but weight and head pressure are recurring complaints.

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.

Styling lands well in both reviews, whether you prefer playful colorways or a more subdued black-on-black look.

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.

Cable convenience is mixed across the included reviews, with one headset using a removable aux cable and the other a fixed cord.

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

A detachable boom mic adds welcome flexibility for switching between gaming use and a cleaner everyday setup.

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

The CH351 includes a 2.4GHz USB-C dongle, but the wireless experience is undermined by static noise.

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 ear pads are a consistent positive, described as soft faux/protein leather and generally comfortable on the ears.

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.

Cup movement is limited overall; the CH331 cups pivot outward but do not offer especially generous articulation.

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.

EQ customization is weak overall, either missing entirely or present but not especially effective.

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.

The drivers reproduce both heavy bass and finer ambient details well enough to sound convincing, even if the signature is not neutral.

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.

The CH331 offers useful headband extension, giving it enough adjustment range for fit tuning.

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.

The CH351 package is well equipped with a dongle, aux cable and detachable microphone.

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 reviews point to good layer separation, making footsteps, ambience and soundtrack elements easier to distinguish.

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.

Microphone functionality is a core feature across the included reviews, even though the exact implementation differs.

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

The CH351 mic does a notably good job suppressing nearby household noise in the included test.

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.

On the CH351, the detachable mic is clear and loud enough for chat or streaming without sounding thin.

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.

Midrange detail is solid for the class, with dialogue and vocal texture coming through better than a typical one-note budget tuning.

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.

The CH351 stands out for broad platform support across consoles, computers and mobile devices.

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

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.

Passive isolation is limited, with one review explicitly noting that room sounds still bleed through.

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.

Portability is not a strength, as the included evidence points to a desk-first design rather than a travel-friendly one.

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.

Preset tuning is not a standout, with profiles either absent or too similar and bass-skewed to feel useful.

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.

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

RGB lighting exists on the CH331, but control is minimal and limited to basic on or off behavior rather than real customization.

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.

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.

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

Basic setup is easy enough, but the overall experience is weakened by limited customization and, on the CH351, awkward controls.

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.

The included reviews consistently praise big, immersive gaming sound, although the CH351's wireless buzzing drags down the overall experience. Both reviews paint wired operation as a strong scenario, with seamless connection and better overall sound performance.

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.

Wide staging is one of the clearest strengths, helping worlds feel larger and positional cues easier to place.

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.

Spatial or virtual surround performance is a real highlight, adding convincing depth and directionality in games.

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.

On-head stability is only average, with one review noting that the headset can slide around during movement.

Treble detail is good enough to keep smaller environmental sounds audible, including birds, crackling fire and distant effects.

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.

USB-C is part of the CH351 setup, appearing in its dongle and port layout.

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.

Volume output is described as lively and forceful, with enough punch to make games and music sound exciting.

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.

Both reviews call the headset noticeably heavy, which becomes more obvious the longer you wear it.

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.

Xbox support is not a strength in the included evidence, and one review specifically steers Xbox shoppers toward other models.

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.