SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless vs Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless edges out the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi for most users, especially gamers, thanks to its hybrid ANC and Infinity Power System that allows for continuous play with hot-swappable batteries. You'll get 22 hours of battery life on a single charge, perfect for long gaming sessions without interruptions. In real-world use, the SteelSeries headset's 40,000Hz frequency response provides an expansive audio experience, which is significantly higher than the Focal's 22,000Hz. If you're serious about gaming or require low latency, this means improved sound detail and responsiveness, making the SteelSeries a no-brainer for dedicated gamers in 2026.
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SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless vs Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
| Criterion | SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(1,707)Best Buy | ★4.2(465)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 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC | SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive |
ANC | Yes (4-mic Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation) | Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency Mode with variable gain) | Yes (Transparency Mode) |
Drivers | 40mm Neodymium Drivers (High-Fidelity) | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium 'M'-shaped Dome Drivers (Made in France) |
Frequency Response | 10 Hz – 22,000 Hz (Wireless) / 10 Hz – 40,000 Hz (Wired) | 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz |
Microphones | ClearCast Gen 2 - Fully Retractable Boom, Bidirectional Noise-Cancelling | 8 Microphones total (Clear Voice Capture technology) |
Battery Life | 18–22 hours per battery (2 hot-swappable batteries included) | 30 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / 35 hours (3.5mm Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) |
Battery Life | N/A (Infinity Power System: continuous play via hot-swap) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C Fast Charge (Headset); Spare battery charges inside Base Station (approx. 3 hours) | USB-C Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 5 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Simultaneous 2.4GHz Game Audio + Bluetooth Mobile Audio) | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (2.4GHz Quantum 2.0 Wireless) | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm wired connection supported) | Yes (USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192kHz; 3.5mm analog cable included) |
Water Resistance | No (Not supported) | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 0.75 lbs (339 g) | 12.3 oz (350 g) |
Controls | On-ear: Power, Mute, Volume, Bluetooth; Base Station: Control Wheel, Touch button | Physical Buttons (Volume, Pairing, ANC mode, Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | SteelSeries GG (Sonar Software Suite with Pro-grade Parametric EQ) | Focal & Naim App (5-band EQ + Mimi Sound Personalization) |
Extras | Multi-System Connect OLED Base Station; Infinity Power System; 360° Spatial Audio | Illuminated Focal flame logo (dimmable); Rigid carrying case; Mimi Hearing Test support |
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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
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Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
✓ Pros:
- • USB-DAC mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio directly from a computer or phone
- • Aluminum/Magnesium drivers provide audiophile-level detail and dynamic range
- • Mimi Sound Personalization adapts the audio profile to your specific hearing health
- • Premium construction with real leather, aluminum, and magnesium materials
- • Solid battery life across all modes, especially when using the internal DAC (42 hours)
✗ Cons:
- • Heavier (12.3 oz) and bulkier than mainstream competitors like Bose or Sony
- • No official water resistance rating (IP) requires care during use
- • High price point targets a niche audiophile audience rather than general consumers
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Which one is better?
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is the better buy for most people - its 40,000Hz frequency response crushes the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi's 22,000Hz.
Who should buy each?
Choose the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless if: you want continuous gaming with hot-swappable batteries, enjoy immersive sound with high-frequency response, or need a headset that can switch between devices easily.
Choose the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi if: you prefer uncompressed audio for music, require a longer battery life for travel, or value personalized sound adjustments tailored to your hearing.
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. Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is better if you prioritize usb-dac mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192khz audio directly from a computer or phone. 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.
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