Gaming headsets are a dime a dozen these days, and while many promise to be the true “all-in-one” solution for your setup, very few actually deliver. Enter the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni, a premium piece of hardware that doesn’t just promise the world; it actually delivers on its promise.
After spending extensive time putting this headset through its paces across multiple platforms, I can confidently say this: the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni is the best gaming headset I have ever used and reviewed.
Keep in mind that this is a direct follow-up to the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless and now brings true simultaneous multi-source audio mixing and full cross-platform compatibility.
Unmatched Comfort
When you’re settling in for a long gaming session, audio quality means nothing if the headset gives you a headache after an hour. Thankfully, the Arctis Nova Pro Omni is extremely comfortable. The clamping force hits that perfect sweet spot, secure enough that it won’t slide around if you tilt your head, but gentle enough that it feels like it’s floating.
The ear cushions are plush and breathable, meaning you can comfortably wear these through an all-night marathon without needing a break just to let your ears cool down. Reviewing games and films, editing podcasts and audio, I often have long sessions with a pair of headphones on my head, and I didn’t have to take regular breaks or lift them off my head as the comfort was there.
The King of Connectivity
For those of us with a complex gaming setup, connectivity is often the biggest hurdle. You want to jump from your PC to your PS5, or maybe over to your Xbox or Nintendo Switch 2, without having to re-pair Bluetooth or shuffle dongles around.
This is where the Omni truly earns its name. It connects to literally everything, which helps immensely when you have multiple devices. Thanks to its OmniPlay functionality and the ability to mix 2.4GHz wireless with Bluetooth seamlessly, it acts as a central audio hub. You can be listening to a podcast on your phone via Bluetooth while simultaneously hearing game audio from your console. No friction, no fuss, once you get everything set up, it just works.
This is all housed by the Arctis Nova Pro Omni GameHub, the command centre that everything connects to. You can use line-in cables to manually connect to the line-in and line-out options. There are three USB-C inputs that can be used for your PC, PS5 and Xbox. The box also houses a Bluetooth connection, which can easily connect to your Switch 2, phone or tablet. It’s great to listen to podcasts or music while still getting the audio from your game input coming in.
You can switch between devices, adjust the EQ, adjust the volume and manage the EQ mix. It’s a really easy way to make changes without needing to use the app or the built-in settings on your device.
Battery Life and Hot-Swapping
One of the defining features of the Arctis Nova Pro line is the hot-swappable battery system. I’ll admit, the battery switching does take a little bit of getting used to at first. Popping the magnetic plate off the earcup to swap the depleted battery for the fresh one charging in the base station requires a bit of muscle memory, and it isn’t something I have had to do with a gaming headset for many years.
However, it works incredibly well once you get the hang of it. More importantly, this design choice will add real longevity to the headset. Built-in batteries inevitably degrade over time, effectively putting a ticking clock on most wireless headsets. Because you can easily replace them as they get older, you’re ensuring this premium investment will last you for years to come.
Audio Excellence
Of course, all the features in the world wouldn’t matter if the audio fell flat. Supported by Hi-Res 96kHz/24-bit audio, the soundscape here is phenomenal. Highs are crisp, the bass is punchy without being overpowering, and the spatial audio gives you a distinct tactical advantage in competitive shooters.
Paired with the ClearCast Pro mic, improved from the previous Nova Pro Wireless, your voice comes through loud and clear on voice chats; you can even use it to record podcasts, and the audio is crystal clear.
Verdict & Value
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni is an absolute triumph. Between its extreme comfort, universal connectivity, and a brilliant swappable battery system that guarantees years of use, it covers every base a gamer could ask for.
It’s an investment, to be sure, but it pays off immediately. With a physical battery system that ensures continuous gameplay while also extending the longevity of the headset, the Arctis Nova Pro Omni is the BEST gaming headset I have ever used.
FIVE STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Highlights: Hi-res audio; Mix up to four audio sources; Outstanding active noise cancellation; GameHub is great
Lowlights: Price point may not be for everyone
Manufacturer: SteelSeries
Price: A$799
Available: Now available at JB Hi-Fi and via the official SteelSeries website.
Review based on unit provided by SteelSeries.
The featured header image is also provided by SteelSeries.
