SteelSeries has always been known for providing world-class headsets for gamers like it’s their bread and butter. Many could go as far as to say that not choosing a SteelSeries headset would be a crime, myself included. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4X is a mid-range headset and the successor to the Arctis 1 Wireless. While it doesn’t offer complete Bluetooth like some of the high-range choices, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4X provides quality sound and audio output for a tidy price.
Design and Features
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4X Wireless uses the winning formula of its predecessors and builds upon it by making refinements to its design and features to achieve a more accessible price point without compromising on quality. This headset is primarily made from plastic, yet it retains a solid build quality and boasts a more lightweight design for extended gaming sessions.
The Arctis Nova 4X Wireless features a ski-goggle style headband with green accents, similar to the other headsets in the Nova range, which also adds the overall comfort and stability of the device. These can be adjusted quite easily with three holes for the pegs to slot into on either side.
Additionally, the 2.4GHz wireless and USB-C connectivity options provide seamless compatibility across multiple platforms, including PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, Meta Quest, and Mobile devices.
Technical Specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | ‎SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4X |
| Compatible Devices | PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, Meta Quest, Mobile |
| Battery Life | ‎36 Hours |
| Battery Cell Composition | ‎Lithium Ion |
| Connector Type | ‎Low Latency 2.4 GHz Wireless |
| Range | 12m |
| Material Type | ‎Plastic |
| Product Dimensions | ‎8.95 x 17.46 x 18.59 cm |
| Item Weight | ‎267.8 g |
| Microphone Polar Pattern | Bidirectional Noise Cancelling |
| Microphone Frequency Response | 100 – 6500 Hz |
| Microphone Sensitivity | -38 db |
| Headphone Sensitivity | 93 dBSPL @ 1kHz/1mW |
| Headphone Frequency Response | 20 – 22,000 Hz |
| Neodymium Drivers | 40 mm |
| Headphone Impedance | 36 Ohm |
| Headphone Total Harmonic Distortion | < 1% @ 1mW 50-10,000 Hz |
| 360° Spatial Audio | Supported |
| USB-C Fast Charge | 15 mins for 6 hours use |
| On-ear Controls | ‎Volume dial, Power, ChatMix Dial, Pairing, Mute |
| Software | SteelSeries GG (Windows 8.1 and above, Mac OS 10.13 and above) |
| Box Contents | Arctis Nova 4X Wireless Headset USB-C Multi-Platform Dongle USB-C to USB-A Dongle Extension Cable (1.5m) USB-C to USB-A Charging Cable (1.5m) |
Performance and User Experience
The Arctis Nova 4X Wireless Headset provides incredible audio performance and immersive 360° Spatial Audio, surpassing all expectations within its price range. SteelSeries has always been known for its audio, and when playing competitive shooters such as Call of Duty: Warzone, I could easily hear and pinpoint everyone around me.
The lightweight construction, coupled with AirWeave cushions, meant I was comfortable for even the most prolonged gaming sessions. The onboard headset controls—power button, ChatMix dial, microphone mute button, and volume control—are strategically placed for easy access, and you can locate them by just feeling the back of the headset while playing. The microphone on the Arctis Nova 4X Wireless Headset is incredible. Its clean embedded design blends straight into the headset on the left side, so you can pull it out as soon as you need it.
According to SteelSeries, the battery life is expected to last 36 hours, and I definitely hit these numbers. As the device automatically puts itself to sleep when not in use, you’ll find that the battery lasts a lot longer than expected.
Integration and Configuration
The Arctis Nova 4X Wireless Headset offers seamless integration with a variety of gaming platforms, including PC, Mac, Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, and mobile devices, thanks to its multi-platform compatibility. The inclusion of a USB-C dongle ensures hassle-free wireless connectivity, while the USB-C charging port provides flexibility and convenience for charging the headset. The biggest issue with the USB-C dongle is that due to the horizontal design, it can’t slot into the back of your PC. This means that you are forced to utilize the USB-C to USB-A Dongle Extension Cable, even on a PC. However, it’s the price that you have to pay for the absence of Bluetooth connectivity.
The SteelSeries GG App on PC adds considerable features to the headset in the form of Sonar for Streamers. This entirely free companion delivers real-time audio level and EQ monitoring, providing the perfect culmination of hardware and software. There are also AI Noise-Canceling features to enrich the overall experience. Unfortunately, all of these increased features are exclusive to PC only, so those wanting to use the Arctis Nova 4X Wireless Headset on consoles or mobile devices won’t be able to achieve or access this advanced customization.
Value for Money
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4X can be a little overpriced compared to its competitors, but it’s a worthy investment. For RRP AU$249, the headset offers excellent value for money and surpasses almost every other competitor in the mid-range headset market. While it may lack certain features found in higher-end models, such as Bluetooth connectivity or advanced EQ settings, the headset excels in delivering a fulfilling gaming experience without breaking the bank. There are some alternative options, including the Razer Barracuda X, but this doesn’t quite provide the same build quality and comfort that the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4X offers.
Disclosure: Game Crater was provided the tech for this review. Some links provided in this article are affiliate links. Game Crater will be paid a commission if you use this link to make a purchase.
