SteelSeries, the company known for producing some of the best headsets for both consoles and PCs, is venturing into the emerging gaming earbuds market with the Arctis GameBuds. Scheduled for release on October 29, these wireless gaming earbuds feature a 2.4GHz wireless connection via a compact dongle, as well as Bluetooth compatibility with various devices. SteelSeries has integrated its speaker drivers into small in-ear buds equipped with active noise-canceling technology. The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds are currently available for preorder at Best Buy for $160.
Similar to the company's lineup of wireless headsets, the Arctis GameBuds come in two distinct models: one tailored for Xbox and PC, and another designed for PlayStation and PC. The Xbox edition offers wireless functionality across all platforms, including PlayStation consoles. Conversely, the PS5 version supports all platforms except Xbox. This discrepancy arises from Microsoft's proprietary wireless protocol, which restricts non-licensed gear from syncing with Xbox consoles. In contrast, PlayStation uses a standard wireless protocol, allowing certain 'Xbox' wireless headsets and earbuds to connect to PlayStation devices.
Both models are available in an all-black design, but PlayStation users have the option to match their earbuds with their PS5 console by choosing the white GameBuds. SteelSeries claims over 10 hours of battery life on a full charge, with the included charging case extending total playback time to up to 40 hours before needing a recharge. These figures may vary depending on the connection type and listening mode; active noise cancellation typically drains the battery faster than transparency mode. The charging case supports Qi wireless charging and USB-C charging (cable included), with the latter offering a quick-charge feature that provides three hours of playback from just 15 minutes of charging.
To design the perfect shape for its inaugural gaming earbuds, SteelSeries analyzed the ears of over 62,000 individuals. The goal was to create earbuds that are comfortable for all-day use while ensuring a secure fit. The GameBuds come with three sets of silicone eartips. After inserting the silicone tips into your ear canals, you gently twist the earbud to lock it in place. My initial impressions of the design are positive; they are lightweight, snug, and I've worn them for extended periods without discomfort.
I've also been impressed with the audio and microphone performance so far. They sound similar, though not quite as good, as the pricier Arctis Nova 7, which is GameSpot's choice for the best wireless gaming headset. Due to their form factor and larger speakers, gaming headsets generally provide a more immersive audio experience than comparably priced earbuds. However, the GameBuds offer typical SteelSeries audio features, including 360-degree spatial audio and the PS5's Tempest 3D audio technology. The built-in microphones perform well, and I didn't need to speak louder than usual during calls on my iPhone. I've only briefly tested the microphones while gaming on PS5, but I haven't encountered any issues so far.
Earlier this year, SteelSeries introduced the Arctis Nova 5, a new mid-range wireless gaming headset for consoles and PC. It was launched alongside a mobile companion app for customizing your audio experience. The GameBuds will be the second SteelSeries product to support this app at launch. On-ear shortcuts allow quick switching between ANC and transparency modes, changing devices by toggling between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connections, and pausing playback. Unlike touch sensors, the GameBuds feature clickable buttons for on-ear controls.
The inclusion of both ANC and transparency modes is beneficial for everyday use. My early impressions indicate that active noise cancellation works as effectively on the GameBuds as it does on the Arctis Nova Pro, SteelSeries' only other audio product with ANC. The Nova Pro retails for $350, making the $160 GameBuds a great value.
In general, gaming-focused gear doesn't match the ANC quality of premium traditional headphones, such as Bose's QuietComfort Ultra headphones or earbuds. One exception is Sony's Inzone Buds for PC and PS5, which utilize technology from Sony's XM5 earbuds. Unfortunately, Inzone Buds only support Bluetooth LE, limiting connectivity to newer Android phones. At $200, they are $40 more expensive than GameBuds and lack Xbox support.
New gaming headsets seem to release weekly, but there are few wireless gaming earbuds from major manufacturers. The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds offer the most versatile platform support yet. The Xbox edition is essentially universal, while the PlayStation version works with all devices except Xbox. You can use the GameBuds on Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, Meta Quest headsets, and more. Since the GameBuds are compatible with Meta Quest 3, they should work seamlessly with the newly announced Meta Quest 3S, also releasing in October.
If you prefer over-ear headphones, Amazon has some great deals on wireless gaming headsets from the SteelSeries Arctis Nova line.
