SteelSeries - Arctis 7 (2019 Edition)

my arctis 7s from 2019 are starting to feel it's age and i'm looking at a new headset. * **Budget -** roughly 270 euro or 2000 dkk * **Country? -** Denmark * **Platform? -** PC * **Motherboard if on pc (or other audio gear)? -** Z790 UD AX * **Requested Guide:** Gaming Headset(AIO) * **Open back or closed back? -** Doesn't matter Have looked at both the Arctis Nova Pro or the Audeze Maxwell. Must have is chat / game mix

I've also owned these [steelseries](https://www.amazon.com/SteelSeries-Lossless-Wireless-Headset-Headphone/dp/B07FZVXS8H?crid=2PMKWIKNC0DLC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.wPgcwh6NAl7NQOTSI7s6kSvxOI5j_PqrLqrNlQyKjna0OgAaDhwz6pDEv6vkYhvnhqjin72dtupeQPPd-ScL_MaWOOXChnx2KM9HkTeT2I2zpLoc-kAV_rOo7s2S2PMbEYNo_sNNxjVlZ3hySbtp5F0d4UfKOk_NFeTBcyRhah4BJsjnmkYNGOKH4C6AkzdbuHtvNeybKwk0-vdRtunkS1FbglS2JHO0-kuaVJoBUbc.BboCU4A8tpw6vRxLefzLzB1Vm4Z1IOxuGDEZrF7E8hg&dib_tag=se&keywords=arctis+nova+7&qid=1737579693&sprefix=arctis+nova+%2Caps%2C144&sr=8-14) bought for 150 several years ago. But the receiver in the headset got broken by my cheap microwave that leaked waves into the air nearby it lol. Definitely sounded better and had better mic quality than my Hyperx wireless headset was also more comfortable, but the cloth band weakened over time and didn't have as good of overall build quality as the new Arctis Nova headsets. But they sound a little bit better

Steelseries artics 7, artics 9 if you care about bluetooth and dungle connection at the same time. My general tip is always wireless headset, once you go wireless you don't turn back

I am using steel as well. Cost vs performance is good IMO.

My arctis 7 from like 2018 still works perfectly...

I’ve had arctics 7 for 5 years but recently the ear piece started to break and eventually they were beyond repair. They were the best headphones I’ve ever had so I bought an exact same piece. The audio in left year broke after 1 month. I switched them to new ones thanks to warranty but those broke again within a month. I exchanged them again on a warranty and so far it’s been good for 3 months. Take it as you will. Just sharing my experience

Idk what yall are doing to yalls headsets but I've had my Arctis 7s for around 4 years now and they haven't broken yet. Only issue is battery life has gone down

i used the steelseries arctis 7 for the longest time. I went with them because they used a ski band for the head which relieved a lot of pressure and headaches a traditional headset would cause (for me at least). Great audio quality, wireless, and ok ish mic.

Same for me

If you can find them for a good price the audeze maxwell i would 100% recommend. Honestly ive used most of the high end gaming headsets and there sound and EQ just have so many issues. Ill also add the build quality tend to break or Fall apart in the same areas. But I'd probably go with arctis 7 line for consoles as the arctis nova pros just arent worth the price.

Best headset i have ever had

I eventually switched to the SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless for my long gaming sessions. I liked that it offered easy on-headset volume controls and a mic that I could flip aside when I wasn't using it. The comfort was a big win for me during 10+ hour sessions, and the sound quality stayed balanced without overwhelming me during intense moments. It wasn't the cheapest, but I felt it was worth the investment for the overall experience.

Another vote for the steel series 7 from me. Mine are about 5 years old as well an totally awesome still. 

I have an arctis 7 by SteelSeries. It's a tad heavy, a little bulky but I really I love it. Once this one dies, I'll probably look for something a little on the lighter side but it really is a great head set.

I've been a Steelseries headset user for a while. Started with the Arctis 7, moved on to the Pro Wireless and then to the Nova Pro Wireless. The price point for these make zero sense...I would probably purchase when they go on sale or get a price reduction. Otherwise, despite the improvements, I don't see myself spending $600. It isn't an income thing for me either....but at $600 these just don't make me my tech senses tingle.

Get a good headset (doesn’t need to cost 300 bucks) and then a external mic that u put on the headset. If that’s not possible aim for Astro A50 X or just a steelseries 7

Using it rn and wouldn't recommend, had to spend $30 extra on new cushions because stock cushions rest the plastic plate on your ears and hurts a lot I got them for super cheap on eBay so I don't mind, but stick to the Arctis 7, used those for years before they eventually gave out

I’ve had my steel series arctis 7 for years now and I use it every day for at least 10 hours a day, I love them absolutely seconded - they’re nice on my ear piercings too (industrial bar) Everything I’ve gotten from razor barely outlives the warranty I will de influence as many as I can. I liked them initially but I’ve never had electronics go out so fast

I love my SteelSeries Arctis 7 🤷🏻‍♂️. Certainly not the best but the sound is good, the battery is great & they are super comfortable

A slight necro, but I have the Arctis 7, Arctis Pro Wireless, and Arctis Nova Pro Wireless - They're all (except the 7's) complete and utter GARBAGE. The Arctis pro broke twice in 6 months, (mic mute button, frequent disconnects, and occasional issues where it refused to connect to the DAC at all.) The Nova pro is no better, with the first one's 6-pole mic button dying in less than 6 months with VERY minimal use of the button itself, and the new headset they sent as a replacement under warranty does 3 beeps when toggling the mic on/off, has "digital compression lag" from interference, picks up my G502x+ if the USB receiver is on the same HUB, constantly disconnects from the DAC, and reconnects, occasionally refuses to perceive a newly swapped battery as charged, occasionally won't turn on...and more. I honestly can't believe that their "high end line" is worse quality than their mid-range, but it DEFINITELY is. My experience with these headsets has turned me off steelseries COMPLETELY, and I doubt I'll ever purchase another product of theirs.

My SteelSeries Arctis 7 headphones have served me loyally the last 9 years and other than one transmitter replaced under warranty they've been flawless. Not sure the current price of the newer model but I've had good luck with almost all my SteelSeries accessories

Chiming in here! My Steelseries Arctis 7 going great for 5 years already.

im having issues with steele series arctis 7 not working in game chat, mainly halo infinite. tried every combination of setting on my pc and on the gg software with no luck.

Love my Arctis 7 SteelSeries

I've used the SteelSeries Arctis 7 for my own gaming sessions, and it worked pretty well for me.

Personally, I stopped using "gaming headsets" a while ago. Over the years, I've tried various ones (Razer BlackShark V2, HyperX Cloud (can't remember the exact model), SteelSeries Arctis 7) and concluded that they all have terrible sound quality and are uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time. Pretty much the only time I used them was when I needed the mic for voice communication. Outside of that, I've been using an AKG K7xx and Sennheiser HD6xx, both from Massdrop, with an external USB DAC and amplifier - in my case, an O2+ODAC and an SDAC - also both from Massdrop. Both of these work fine both in Linux and Windows. A year ago or so, I got a desk microphone (Elgato Wave:3) for voice communications so I wouldn't have to use the horrible gaming headsets at all anymore. Currently using the Elgato Wave:3 as well as a Fifine AM8 (in two different locations), and both work fine with Linux as well. If I was to personally recommend something, it would be to get a decent headphone, such as Sennheiser HD6xx (or HD650, which is almost the same but probably easier to get if Massdrop isn't currently selling HD6xx) and DAC+amplifier, and a desk microphone for voice communication if needed. It'll be a bit more expensive than a gaming headset, and not wireless, but the difference in comfort and audio quality is massive.

I highly recommend any SteelSeries headset. Call it brand loyalty but I’ve genuinely never liked another headset more. Pick up one of there older models for a decent price. I’m still using my Arctis 7 and sound quality and audio location is great.

Seconded Steelseries, I have replaced the ski band multiple times and ear pads once. Still a great headset going on I think 5 years

Steelseries Arctis 7…great sound, great mic, excellent battery. Been using for several years and no issues or drops in audio quality.

Can’t really speak to that. I play in a closed office but I don’t have a problem with audio bleeding if there are other noises.

I decided to go with the SteelSeries Arctis 7 when I needed a headset that could handle both game audio and chat.

I’ve tried the SteelSeries Arctis 7 for long gaming sessions, and they check most of the boxes. They’re wireless, comfortable for extended play, and include audio controls on the ear cup.

I've tried a few wireless models over the years and found that the SteelSeries Arctis 7 fits my needs really well.

I have had the white arctis chat 7 for 3 years and they're actually really scratch & dirt resistant! They don't look dirty at all after a lot of heavy use, plus the fabric head band at the top is a huge plus cs they don't hurt your head from wearing them for long gaming sessions 🤍

I've tried the SteelSeries Arctis 7, and it's been a solid choice for long gaming sessions.

Try STEELSERIES.. I have the arctis 7 and it’s amazing.

My 6 year old arctis 7 wireless are better in every way. Easy to use and control audio channels. The nova is Garbo

have used the arctis 7s since 2019 and haven't really had any problems with them as far as sound goes. the big negative i have is that silly band thing they use for sizing. it's terribly uncomfortable and has been the source of many a headache for me.

Reminds me alot like a steelseries arctis headset with those... cracked hinges. Seriously I don't really understand the trend of single sided hinges. Both my arctis 7 and pro wireless cracked at the hinge area. My nova pro wireless held fine after 2 and half years but still make me worry every time I put them on.

Worth upgrading? I have arctic 7 and they are my favorite headphones I have had them for 8+ years now but the battery life is starting to suck and they are my only device using micro usb.

Uninstall their software. Just get your os to recognize the audio input and output and get rid of their trash. Worked for me as their software was awful and causing issues like you described.

Sounds like solid advice! How's the software accompanying it? I like my steelseries Arctis 7, but I'm often struggling with the drivers and "steelseries GG" messing up the two audio channels (chat and game), the thing going mute, or auto-shutting off while playing audio... And getting sick of it.

Unfortunately If I don't run steelseries GG, it'll default to the setting that is shuts down after 30 minutes. The only way to circumvent that bullshit then, is to actively use the microphone, that registers as "being used". Not the fucking fact that there's audio playing through the headphone :( I sometimes manage to get the auto-shutdown to 'never' via a profile in steelseries GG, but it usually only works a limited time :( never buying anything from them again.

Yeah, no thanks. I'm never buying anything again from Steelseries, let alone another headset.

STEEL SERIES ARCTIS 7. Ive used alot of headsets and these are by FAR the most comfortable, great sound quality and wirless depending on. the model. Arctis 5 is also great.

HyperX cloud 3s or wired cloud 2s are absolutely insane for an entry level headset. If you wanna go a bit more expensive, arctis 7 are alright, but I have always preferred the cloud II and then III. Extremely comfortable and last a long ass time. Cloud Alphas sound awful and I don't recommend them.

I really like my arctis 7. Recently bought one for my wife for 120 on a good sale. Usually, it's closer to 200. I've had mine for a few years and use it for work and games. It lasts all week between charging.

I used Arctic 7's for like 4 years straight, daily use. Phenomenal in every aspect. Upgraded to the Pro's now. They have swappable batteries which is an incredible feature. Never have to plug in to recharge. Only downside is the faux leather ear foams are absolute garbage out the box. Had to get a cooling gel ones on Amazon for like $15, but they've been great the last year.

Cheers! I will say - the pros aren't like THAT big of an upgrade. They're great, but if your battery is still going strong after a swap there's really no reason to change it up. The 7's were phenomenal

I’ve been using the steel series arctics 7 for like 2 years now and they’re great!

I’d suggest checking out the HyperX Cloud III Wireless or SteelSeries Arctis 7. If you’re done dealing with lag, unclear mic, or headsets that get uncomfortable after a while, these two are honestly great options. The HyperX feels super soft, has a clear mic and lasts long on battery, while the Arctis 7 gives a strong connection and really good sound. This [thread actually pretty helpful](https://www.reddit.com/u/HelpfulLoss2086/s/BKlBk1DR4A) if you’re looking for something that just works without the usual headset issues.

I’d go for the HyperX Cloud III Wireless or SteelSeries Arctis 7. If you’re tired of lag, bad mic or headsets that start hurting after a while, these two are solid picks. HyperX has super soft pads, clear mic and great battery life, while the Arctis 7 nails the wireless connection and sound quality. Really [helpful thread](https://www.reddit.com/u/HelpfulLoss2086/s/i79UVcOncB) definitely worth a read if you want a headset that just works right.

Honestly I'd just let him pick them out himself. I know it ruins the surprise, but I have a few expensive hobbies, gaming being one of them, and generally, I'm pretty particular about my equipment for them. My first really nice wireless headset I bought was a pair of Steel Series Arctis 7s as they were highly regarded (Steel Series in general are still listed as on of the top brands online), and they were $150. After my wireless dangle died on me and I kept having connection issues I replaced them with a pair of Corsair headphones that were half that price. While they weren't as top of the line as my Steel Series they were more affordable which is all I cared about my recent go round. That's a long winded way of saying maybe he wants the best of the best features and if he does he'll know which ones are important to him. Or maybe he'll want a more price point conscious one this time knowing your daughter could break them again and it would feel less bad if that happens to a $80 pair of headphones.

I tried the SteelSeries Arctis 7 a while back, and it worked well for my long gaming sessions.

Hi there, I literally JUST changed out my Steelseries Arctis 7 this week, so this post caught my eye. I am assuming by your budget, that you are using the wired version. I am using the wireless version. But I loved my Arctis 7's, they had just gotten aged with wear and tear so it was time to replace. I stayed with Steelseries (since I also have an Apex Pro keyboard and am used to the driver software now), and I went with the Arctis Novo Pro. I couldn't be happier, I love them. I instantly heard a difference in them over my Arctis 7s. Like, instantly, I heard differences in the surround field that I had not been hearing in the 7s, and in the first game I brought up I was hearing ambient sounds that I have never heard before, same game, no changes other than switching from the 7 to the Novo Pro. Just thought I'd let you know my experience since I had steelseries also.

Hello, is there anything I can do to fix my SteelSeries Arctis 7 headphones, which stopped charging unexpectedly just a few months after the warranty expired? It seems like a common problem. I’ve tried a factory reset - this didnt work. Only other thing left is to open the headphones up, but it doesn’t seem reasonable to expect users to take apart the earpiece and tinker with the hardware (possibly a loose charging port).

Nice enjoy! I got mine about three years ago. I used them daily for the first year, then roughly once a month, but now they won’t charge at all. From what I’ve read in reviews and comments, this seems to be a common issue with this product: the charging connection inside the headphones gets loose and stops working. It can be fixed, but you have to take the headphones apart. Hopefully yours will last much longer than mine did. They were beautiful while they worked, but I won’t be buying from that brand again.

I effing love my Steelseries Arctis 7 headset. The two separate audio streams for chat and game are amazing.

I replaced my ear pads long ago. And randomly, my battery finally totally died after 5 years or so a few weeks ago. Got a new one online, soldered it in, good to go again. Pro set will be mine someday lol. Cheers : )

Best feature ever

You fancy bastard. Lol Mine get plugged in whenever I'm not using them. Aside from when they fully died, I don't think they ever quit on me during a session.

I highly recommend the SteelSeries Arctis 7. Very comfortable and has great audio quality

I switched to the SteelSeries Arctis 7 for my sessions, and it's been a solid fit. The headset is comfortable enough for long hours, and the volume controls on the ear cup let me tweak levels without fuss.

I current run the arctic 7 and love it. Are the 7P+ any better?

i really want them, i have my steelseries arctis 7 since 2019 battery replace is a pain in the ass. Anyway, i love them

Hey man I just bought the Arctis 7 like a few days ago and they are just amazing, without even having to set up custom sound profiles, so glad to hear that they lasted long for you

mine are still going strong and great. the ONLY issue with this headset is that there is no option to turn off the annoying led light thats always visible to indicate connection status or battery level

I have the Arctis 7 and find them great, the headband is super comfortable. I bought some aftermarket foam cushioned earpads and now they're like a cushion for your ears. You said they were a small 14yr old? They could potentially be a bit big but then my 8yr old daughter wears them often to pretend she's a pilot so...

Have the 5, gamebuds and pro wireless. The 5 are the smallest earcups - and the built quality isn’t as good as the pro - but you can find the 5 on offer a lot. With the mobile app - they sound great when you set up the EQ etc :) You can’t steam from both BT and 2,4ghz at same time though - you have to swap with a button - but they will connect to your phone at the same time, in case you get a call - one button press will swap to BT If you have an Xbox in the mix remember you will need the 5X - which also work on ps4 / PC/ switch and mobile :)

For that - you will have to spend a bit more money - The 7 and Pro Wireless do simultaneous 2.4ghz and Bluetooth - so you can game on console and use BT for the phone at the same time.

My Arctis 7 still going strong after 6 years!

For wireless gaming headphones specifically -- I've had the G Pro X's, Steel Series Arctis 7, and Astro A50. Out of those, I'd probably choose the Logitechs However, I've since moved onto using IEM's + Antlion mic. If wireless isn't a deal breaker, I'd recommend IEM's. Don't really need noise cancellation with IEM's if they fit properly + great/raw positional sounds (I play CS and Valorant). Personally, I hated the over filtered EQ sound from all the mass marketed gaming headphones. Also IEM's don't jack up my head/hair with a headband dent FWIW, a lot of pro gamers use IEM's, however they wear their gaming headphones on top over them either for sponsorship purposes or another layer to block ambient noise

I am very biased here cuz theyre my long time favorites but I suggest the arctis 7 wireless from steelseries. Ear cups are like knitted and very comfortable/breathable. Stays cool. Battery last a long time, has simultaneous BT if you want that. If the earcups are your cup of tea, theres always aftermarket. Mic Quality is acceptable but if you want really crisp youll always have to buy a seperate one. No matter the headset.

I have been rocking the arctis 7 for a couple years now and I have been really happy with it but I might upgrade to the arctis nova 7. I’m not the best at siege with my terrible reaction speed so I rely on map knowledge and sound. It has gotten me out of situation like cav and people trying to sneak up on me and that is without adjusting it and without using the siege sound profile from the software.

Ive had the arctis 7 since they first came out. Never had a problem and I game 5-8 hours at a time. Tried fiio ft1 and sennheiser 560s. While they sounded better, I dont like having wires. I move to grab snacks and drinks and check on my wife if she needs something and being able to move with the headset is super convenient. Actually upgraded to nova elites and its beyond comparison to the 7. Swappable batteries is a thing I never knew I needed. The range covers my whole house from the base so its my daily driver while I do chores or clean.

I have the arctis elites which is my daily driver for everything around the house, the range is insane. But before that, the arctis 7 was holding up really well. The bad reviews are mainly the high price and the mic quality, which doesnt sound bad and is rated among the top 3 mics according to multiple reviews and youtube videos. Even hearing them use it on the videos, while not broadcast quality, sounds very close to normal speaking, albeit kind of nasally. Youll hear that audeze maxwells are better, which is true regarding sound, but planar drivers are known to break easily because it's super thin. Even pressing the ear cushions against your head can create air pressure that breaks it. Theres rumors of maxwell 2 releasing soon which I hope addresses the weight and planar issues. For sure, stay away from any sony headsets. You read a lot of qc issues from constant disconnects, to breaking very easily. i tried fiio ft1 and sennheiser 560s but I cant stand wired headsets and sennheiser is known to have high treble, even with EQ adjusted.

I have the Steelseries Arctis 7 Wireless Headset and it's the best I've ever had. I already replaced the head rubberband and the earpieces and with that, it still feels like new after 5 years.

I have the SteelSeries Arctis 7 and it’s great!

I have the SteelSeries Arctis 7 and SteelSeries Nova. The Nova is lighter and more comfortable if you have a bigger head. Unfortunately, even on the smallest setting my head is too small for it and it slides off easy. The Arctis 7 is heavier but because of the ski goggles band fits on my head very well. I mainly use the Arctis 7. I’ve had SteelSeries for many years and can’t imagine switching anytime soon.

these are pretty comfortable but note that the mic quality is absolute ass. for anyone who cares

I find I can't wear them for more than an hour without my ears hurting. The battery life isn't great either.

> Artics 7 Pro Too bad they've been out of stock for years. The wireless ones, anyways. I got my last set on ebay refurbished and they've been totally fine though.

Came to say this. Love my series 7.

It is ! I’ve just upgraded to the wireless one and it’s so easy to set up and have really good sound quality and noise cancellation :)

The Arctis ones do it with a cool little dedicated box where you can also control other things. I had some years ago and it was a very handy feature...though yes, windows now does much better, channel-based volume control. Still not as cool as a dial on a box though :)

I live and breathe by the steel series arctis series. They have lasted me a LONG time and has withstood a lot over the years with zero damage.

steelseries arctis are as good as it gets for me. I've tested every major headset over the last year and they've been the best sounding and by far most comfortable. they suffer from some software issues when using in pc but outside of that i will be sticking with steelseries offeringsbfor the foreseeable future

I’d look into a hyperx headset. Those usually are good quality and last quite a while. I haven’t found one I’m not a fan of but I’m also not an enthusiast although I currently bounce between the alpha and a Steelseries arctis headset.

Steelseries and something in your budget in the arctis series. I am on my 3rd model. I love the headband part that doesn’t press on my head, and the material on the earpads are so comfortable.

Just got these. I can recommend them. Not tested mic yet. As for comfort: I have a large head, and am finding the clamping a bit tight however, and the earcups just fit around my ears - it's a bit snug. Nothing bad, per se, but not quite in the super comfort zone of some other headphones. They'd be fine for gaming sessions, but not something I'd want to wear all day. I'd have preferred a bit more of a relaxed fit. On the other hand, a relaxed fit means very big headphone that can turn some people off.

Having owned the arctis, and now just picked up the Scape, I can tell you that it's in a different league to the Arctis. It's very good. Not quite as good as my high end audiophile headphones, but very, very good compared to most gaming headsets. I'd rate them in the same class as the Audeze maxwell. Happy to listen to music on them. Excellent controls too. And very nice looking in person. I have a large head, and am finding the clamping a bit tight however, and the earcups just fit around my ears - it's a bit snug. Nothing bad, per se, but not quite in the super comfort zone of some other headphones.

I love my Steelseries Arctis. It's a touch out of your price range but the features are top notch.

My steelseries Arctis headset is still going strong after 7 years. I had a hyper x one that didn’t even last a month.

I use the Steelseries Arctic for 3 years. Still solid

What headset you recommend? Currently have a hypercloud 2 and it´s breaking down as I´ve got it for 8 years now lol, bought the hypercloud 3 and it´s whack, literally feeling pressure on my ears and the microphone is bad. Tried arctic steelseries and even that one felt like pressure on my ears.

Audeze Maxwell - Considered one of the best wireless gaming headsets. Popular with music creators as well as for gaming. Mic is reasonably good, though can clip a little. Comes with leather earpads, but they can be replaced easily. Drop + EPOS PC38X - One of the best wired gaming headsets for sound clarity and mic quality. Bass reproduction is a bit muted, which is common for older style EPOS / Sennheiser headsets, and common with open back headphones in general. The mic is essentially the best of any consumer headset you can buy. Generally can only be bought directly from Drop's site. Comes with both cloth and velour earpads. [https://drop.com/buy/drop-epos-pc38x-gaming-headset](https://drop.com/buy/drop-epos-pc38x-gaming-headset) Steel Series Arctis headsets are generally a decent middle ground in terms of decent bass and mic quality. The overall audio quality isn't as good as either the Maxwell or PC38X, but they're closed back so their bass response is more like the Maxwell. And the mic quality is generally better than the Maxwell, but no where near as good as the PC38X. Most (maybe all?) use cloth earpads. Nova Pro Wireless and Nova 9 are both quite good, with the Nova 9 being slightly better in terms of audio clarity and mic quality, but the Pro Wireless has better bass and noise cancelling.

The Arctis steel series ones that are marketed for Xbox work with PlayStation too and I see now they have some PlayStation branded ones too

Arctis steel series. I can hear more than my teammates typically with incoming cars etc

This is the best answer. I went steel series arctis until i upgrad