SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds Review
Summary: The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds prove that audio size doesn't matter
4.5
Go small!
The SteelSeries Arctis Earbuds… err, GameBuds have been designed for gamers and according to SteelSeries, they offer high-performance audio without the bulk of a traditional headset. While headsets have their place, sometimes I just want to lounge around with my SteamDeck or Nintendo Switch 2, without having that extra bulk while I game. Although the SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds have been designed for the Xbox, they are multiplatform earbuds which means you can use them on a variety of devices and not just current-gen consoles, courtesy of their 2.4Ghz wireless and Bluetooth technology.
They also offer ANC (Active Noise Cancellation), high-fidelity neodymium magnetic drivers with up to 10-hours per bud to help get you immersed into your virtual worlds. There is also an accompanying mobile app which offers Xbox gamers with over 100+ presets to enhance the audio with these earbuds and it also supports 360-degree spatial audio. Additionally, it supports quick switching between 2.4GHz and Bluetooth in order to take calls while you are gaming.
Key Features:
- High-speed 2.4GHz wireless plus Quick-Switch Bluetooth 5.3
- Active Noise Cancellation with transparency mode
- 100+ Xbox audio presets with the Arctis Companion App for iOS & Android
- Immersive 360° Spatial Audio (supported on PlayStation, PC, Xbox, & mobile)
- 10-hour battery with Qi Wireless Charging Case for 40h total
- IP55 Protection – Water/Dust/Dirt resistant
The Arctis GameBuds look great, mirroring those gamer aesthetics. The buds are comfortable; however, you do need to slightly twist them to fit in your ear properly, but once in, they are a snug fit. The overall quality feels quite sturdy and professionally built as is its charging case. The GameBuds are also sweat and splash resistant, making them perfect for sports with its IP55 rating.
Controls are physical rather than touch-based, which helps you avoid accidental input, but it requires a firm press which will take you some time to master and the app allows you to customise the buttons, including control over ANC, volume and EQ switching. For example, pressing the button on the left earbud allows you to cycle through ANC, whereas pressing the button on the right earbud allows you to take a call or a double press ends the call. Relative simple.
Unboxing
To charge, you simply place the GameBuds into the case and presto, charging commences. To charge the case, you just need to connect it to a USB-C port and as mentioned, the buds will last up to 10-hours, with the case providing an additional 30 hours of battery.
The Setup
Although the Gamebuds work with a variety of consoles and smartphones, we decided to test them with the brand new Nintendo Switch 2 console. However, before we started the process, we first installed the Arctis app for Android (iOS is also available) that basically paired them with my phone. This also notified me that a new firmware update was available that needed to be installed via my PC and not the app which does add another step into the process opposed a smartphone installation. To update the firmware, you need to install the SteelSeries GG software on your PC and then follow the instructions.
Once the app was installed on my phone, I then proceeded to pair my Nintendo Switch 2 with the Arctis Gamebuds. This was a simple matter of holding one of the buttons on the earbuds for 3 seconds and then, on the console, connecting a Bluetooth audio device. This worked instantly!
But what about the USB-C dongle?
For even better audio, you can connect the dongle into the Switch 2 (and Steam Deck) in order to experience low-latency 2.4Ghz wireless sound that works immediately and it even informs you that it is connected. Speaking of talking… the GameBuds do provide audible notifications when connecting to devices, including features such as when ANC or transparency mode is activated.
Verdict?
The audio performance on Arctis GameBuds really shines with excellent levels (lows, mids and highs) with overall impressive, distortion-free audio. Given the size of the earbuds, they definitely pack a punch, including impressive bass. Active noise cancellation (ANC) is quite effective, blocking out a fair bit of ambient noise, while transparency mode allows you to stay aware of your surroundings when needed, especially useful in shared spaces or you’re pretending to be “present” with your family. The GameBuds also work a treat on the Steam Deck via Bluetooth and our last test was on the Xbox Series X.
Xbox owners will appreciate the presets via the Arctis Companion app which tweaks the audio for that particular game and as a result, the directional audio feels impressively precise and whether you’re immersed in sweeping orchestral scores or listening for enemy footsteps, the GameBuds delivered on the clarity forefront. Again, it’s great to lounge on the couch and play the XSX without my spouse complaining of in-game audio and more importantly, it is far comfortable than a headset. Perfect for those longer than long gaming sessions.
App Screenshots
.
The Negatives?
On the flipside, it would have been nice if the Arctis GameBuds supported multipoint support which means you can’t have two devices connected simultaneously. Thankfully the switching between Bluetooth 5.3 and its low-latency 2.4Ghz (via the dongle) is flexible and fast. Also as Bluetooth audio uses the SBC codec only, the quality is not as good as the 2.4Ghz wireless but nonetheless, it is still serviceable.
Final Thoughts?
The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds are definitely some of the best (if not the best) gaming earbuds that complement gaming consoles, delivering an almost perfect audio experience. The highlight is the audio performance that brings immersive sound to your gaming worlds without the bulk from headphones.
Recommended!
Arctis GameBuds Specifications:
- Wireless Connectivity:
- 2.4GHz Wireless + Bluetooth 5.3: Instant access to high-speed gaming on PlayStation, PC, Handhelds, and more.
- Quick-Switch Wireless: Switch between 2.4GHz and Bluetooth with a triple tap of the earbud.
- One Dongle, Multi-platform: Plug-and-play on PS5, Switch, PC, VR, tablets, & more. USB-C to USB-A converter included.
- Audio Performance:
- 100+ Xbox Audio Presets: Control your audio in real-time without leaving the game, and access presets specifically tuned to enhance each individual game.
- Immersive 360° Spatial Audio: From footsteps to heals, to deep roaring crowds and engine sounds, hear the sounds that matter most. Tempest 3D fully supported.
- Separate Presets for Gaming and Mobile: Automatically switch between saved gaming and mobile presets.
- Noise Control:
- Active Noise Cancellation with transparency mode
- Microphone:
- Built-in Mic: Chat in game or tap the on-ear button to answer a call with the built-in mobile mics. On-ear buttons let you mute, control the volume and more.
- Comfort & Durability:
- Small / Medium / Large Eartips Included.
- IP55 Water Resistance: AquaBarrier™ provides water, dust, and splash resistance so you can hit the gym or walk in the rain without worrying.
- Battery Life:
- 10 Hours Per Charge: Up to 40 hours total with the charging case. Based on 2.4GHz connection with noise control off.
- Qi Wireless Charging Case: Charge via the included USB-C cable or your own wireless charger. Fast charge 15 mins for 3 hours of play.
Related Posts
PGA TOUR 2K25 Season 3 Captures the Excitement of the FedExCup Playoffs →
A NEW INDIE WORLD SHOWCASE WILL AIR ON THURSDAY, 7th AUGUST →
The War Within update 11.2 Ghosts of K’aresh – Now Live! →
