SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3

Overview

The Arctis Nova 3 is a wired mid-range headset at $99.99, released August 2022. It runs 40mm dynamic drivers, ClearCast Gen 2 retractable mic, and dual connectivity — USB-C for digital audio with RGB and software support, 3.5mm for everything else. Weighs 253 grams. The USB-C connection covers PC, PlayStation, and Switch natively; a USB-A adapter extends to Xbox and older systems.

Key Features

40mm Dynamic Drivers: 20Hz–22kHz frequency response. Tuned toward a balanced profile with a slight brightness in the highs. Default sound leans toward clarity over bass impact — addressable through Sonar’s 10-band parametric EQ on PC.

ClearCast Gen 2 Mic: Fully retractable into the left earcup. Bidirectional noise cancellation reduces ambient noise up to 25dB through SteelSeries Sonar on PC. Analog mic performance varies by source device — USB-C is the stronger connection for mic quality.

RGB via PrismSync: Two independently controllable zones per earcup, 16.8 million color options. RGB only functions over USB-C — 3.5mm users don’t get it. Syncs with other SteelSeries peripherals through SteelSeries GG.

Dual Connectivity: USB-C to USB-C cable for digital audio and software. USB-C to USB-A adapter for older systems. 3.5mm analog cable for controllers and mobile. One headset covers most scenarios without adapters you have to hunt for.

Spatial Audio Support: Compatible with Tempest 3D Audio on PS5 and Microsoft Spatial Sound on Xbox and Windows. No proprietary spatial processing — relies on platform implementations.

Audio Quality

Out of the box, the Nova 3 leans slightly bright. Highs are detailed, mids are clear, bass is controlled but not heavy. For competitive gaming — CS2, Valorant, Apex — that tuning works. Footsteps and directional cues read cleanly. The soundstage is adequate for a closed-back wired headset, not a standout.

On PC with Sonar, the 10-band parametric EQ gives you full control to compensate. Bass-light out of the box is a non-issue if you’re willing to dial it in. The esports-tuned EQ presets are a reasonable starting point. Without software — on console or mobile — you’re working with the default analog output, which performs well for the price but leaves the treble harder than some users prefer at higher volumes.

Comfort & Build

253 grams with the ski-goggle suspension headband. Same self-adjusting elastic design as the Nova 1 — no manual notches, distributes weight across the skull. AirWeave memory foam with breathable mesh fabric, not leatherette. Runs cooler over long sessions as a result. Glasses-friendly based on consistent user feedback.

Build is all plastic with a matte finish and rubberized earcup coating. Sturdy, not premium. The height adjustment uses a fabric extender with four positions — functional but fiddlier than a standard slider. The earcup rotation adds storage convenience. Included cables run 4 feet — short enough that extended setups may need a cable extension.

Verdict

The Nova 3 is the move if you want RGB and dual USB-C/3.5mm connectivity in a wired headset under $100. The comfort system holds up over long sessions, the mic overperforms for the price tier, and Sonar on PC fills the gaps in the default audio tuning.

The all-plastic build and slightly harsh default treble are the real trade-offs. RGB requires USB-C — 3.5mm users lose that feature entirely. Anyone who needs wireless should step up to the Nova 5 or Nova 7. For wired-only use across multiple platforms with full PC software support, the Nova 3 is a straightforward recommendation at $99.99.