SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Choosing between SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless and Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) can be tricky. Both are excellent, but they serve different priorities. This guide highlights what matters for US shoppers.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Comparison: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
| Criterion | SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(1,707)Best Buy | ★4.6(3,079)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | 2.4GHz Quantum 2.0 Wireless + Bluetooth 5.0; Base Station: 2x USB-C System, 1x 3.5mm Line-In, 1x 3.5mm Line-Out | Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC | AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C) |
ANC | Yes (4-mic Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation) | Yes (Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency Mode with variable gain) | Yes (Transparency mode) |
Drivers | 40mm Neodymium Drivers (High-Fidelity) | 40mm Apple-designed dynamic driver |
Frequency Response | 10 Hz – 22,000 Hz (Wireless) / 10 Hz – 40,000 Hz (Wired) | Not officially specified |
Microphones | ClearCast Gen 2 - Fully Retractable Boom, Bidirectional Noise-Cancelling | 9 mics (8 for ANC, 3 for voice pickup - 2 shared) |
Battery Life | 18–22 hours per battery (2 hot-swappable batteries included) | Up to 20 h (with ANC/Spatial Audio) |
Battery Life | N/A (Infinity Power System: continuous play via hot-swap) | N/A (Smart Case preserves battery, does not charge) |
Charging | USB-C Fast Charge (Headset); Spare battery charges inside Base Station (approx. 3 hours) | USB-C |
Multipoint | Yes (Simultaneous 2.4GHz Game Audio + Bluetooth Mobile Audio) | Automatic Switching (Apple ecosystem only) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (2.4GHz Quantum 2.0 Wireless) | Ultra-low latency via USB-C (wired) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm wired connection supported) | Yes (Lossless digital audio via USB-C cable) |
Water Resistance | No (Not supported) | None |
Weight | 0.75 lbs (339 g) | 0.85 lb (385 g) |
Controls | On-ear: Power, Mute, Volume, Bluetooth; Base Station: Control Wheel, Touch button | Digital Crown (volume/control), Noise Control button |
App Eq | SteelSeries GG (Sonar Software Suite with Pro-grade Parametric EQ) | iOS Settings (Headphone Accommodations) |
Extras | Multi-System Connect OLED Base Station; Infinity Power System; 360° Spatial Audio | Personalized Spatial Audio; Find My support; Smart Case (low power mode) |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. | Check Price on Amazon→ | Check Price on Amazon→ |
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
✓ Pros:
- • Infinity Power System with hot-swappable batteries allows for non-stop wireless gaming
- • Base Station enables seamless switching between two platforms (e.g., PC and Console)
- • Simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4GHz audio mixing is perfect for taking calls while gaming
- • Sonar software provides a professional-grade parametric EQ for precise audio tuning
- • Premium build with retractable mic and effective Active Noise Cancellation
✗ Cons:
- • ANC components inside the ear cups may cause discomfort for users with larger ears
- • Bluetooth connectivity is limited to the basic SBC codec
- • High price point places it in the top-tier luxury bracket
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
✓ Pros:
- • Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem
- • Class-leading ANC and Transparency modes
- • Native Lossless Audio support via USB-C cable
- • Premium build quality with breathable mesh canopy
✗ Cons:
- • Heavier than most competitors (385g)
- • Smart Case offers minimal physical protection
- • Retains older H1 chip (misses Adaptive Audio/Conversation Awareness)
- • Expensive MSRP ($549) unchanged
- • No official water resistance rating
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Which one is better?
Overall, Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) delivers better satisfaction. SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is still a quality option with specific strengths worth considering.
Who should buy each?
For performance and polish: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless (Infinity Power System with hot-swappable batteries allows for non-stop wireless gaming, Base Station enables seamless switching between two platforms (e.g., PC and Console))
For value or versatility: Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) (Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem, Class-leading ANC and Transparency modes)
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless excels if you value infinity power system with hot-swappable batteries allows for non-stop wireless gaming. Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is better if you prioritize seamless switching and integration within apple ecosystem. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
Affiliate disclosure
PageBen uses Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This supports independent content for US shoppers.