| Product Positioning |
Premium flagship gaming headset |
Mid-range esports gaming headset |
| Release Year |
2018 |
2021 |
| Connection Type |
Wired, GameDAC version |
Wired only |
| Drivers |
High-density neodymium drivers |
High-fidelity drivers derived from Pro line |
| Frequency Response |
10 Hz – 40,000 Hz (Hi-Res Audio certified) |
10 Hz – 40,000 Hz |
| Hi-Res Audio Certification |
Yes |
No |
| GameDAC Support |
Available on Arctis Pro + GameDAC version |
No |
| Wireless Option |
No |
No |
| Bluetooth |
No |
No |
| Software Support |
SteelSeries GG / Engine with EQ customization |
Limited software benefits |
| Equalizer Customization |
Extensive |
Source-device dependent |
| Sound Signature |
Balanced, detailed, spacious |
Slightly warmer, focused for gaming |
| Soundstage |
Wide and immersive |
Moderate |
| Imaging Accuracy |
Excellent |
Very good |
| Music Performance |
Excellent |
Good |
| Competitive FPS Performance |
Excellent |
Excellent |
| Bass Response |
Tight and controlled |
Slightly stronger impact |
| Treble Detail |
More refined and detailed |
Less detailed |
| Microphone Type |
Retractable ClearCast microphone |
Retractable ClearCast microphone |
| Microphone Quality |
Excellent |
Very good |
| Noise Rejection |
Better |
Good |
| Ear Cushion Material |
AirWeave fabric |
Leatherette |
| Comfort |
Excellent for long sessions |
Excellent |
| Passive Noise Isolation |
Moderate |
Better due to leatherette pads |
| Build Materials |
Aluminum alloy and steel |
Steel headband with aluminum alloy hangers |
| Durability |
Premium construction |
Very durable esports-focused design |
| On-Ear Controls |
Volume wheel, mic mute |
Volume wheel, mic mute |
| Replaceable Cable |
Yes |
Yes |
| Multi-Platform Support |
PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, Mobile |
PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, Mobile |
| Main Strengths |
Superior audio quality, Hi-Res support, DAC options, wireless options, customization |
Excellent value, strong isolation, lighter weight, simple setup |
| Main Weaknesses |
More expensive, fabric pads isolate less |
Fewer features, no DAC, no wireless option |
| Best For |
Audiophiles, streamers, enthusiasts, premium gaming setups |
Competitive gamers seeking value and simplicity |