Wanting to upgrade from my Logitech G533 wireless headset, I decided to purchase the SteelSeries Arctis 7. Advertised as the Wireless Headset of the year I thought it was worth a shot. The Arctis 7 Wireless Headset was selling on Amazon for £137 at the time of publication.
The Arctis 7 packaging was excellent and really leaned into the e-sports pedigree that SteelSeries pushes. The headset comes with a micro-USB cable, a 3.5mm to USB cable for a wired connection and the USB transmitter.
The build quality is what struck me first, especially compared to my old headset. The metal headband adds a lot of rigidity to the headphones and the foam cushioning feels excellent.
Comfort wise I have no complaints. The bungee/ski goggle headband strap makes the Arctics 7 really comfortable even with my large head which is something I definitely appreciated compared to my old headset. My ears do get warm over longer periods of time but no more than any other cushioned headset.
The sound quality is excellent with plenty of customisation in the SteelSeries software so you can make it your own. The only complaint regarding the sound is that I found when my computer volume is at 100% static, it will come through the headset regardless of the headsets set volume. It only happens at 100% and does not detract from the experience otherwise.
The microphone is good quality, produces clear sound and handily retracts into the left ear piece. There is a dedicated mute button which when used turns on a red LED indicator on the tip of the mic which is very handy. One feature I do miss from my old headset is that when the microphone is put away it does not automatically mute or unmute like it did with the Logitech.
There is a handy charging indicator LED on the microphone which changes when fully charged which is very handy. Unfortunately I’ve not found it that reliable as it does not always light up when plugged in which is disappointing. I found the advertised battery life of 24 hours is accurate which is a definite positive.
I love that the USB transmitter is not a dongle, it can be easily displayed and has a useful line-in and out which is very handy as I do not have to manually change audio sources when changing from speakers to headphones or vice-versa. It flashes when the headset is not connected and is a solid white when they are connected. A useful, if sometimes distracting indicator.
Overall, I am very happy with the SteelSeries Arctis 7’s and definitely do not regret buying them. However, they are not perfect and for the price I’d not expect the aforementioned issues to be happening.
