Computer peripherals: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset vs. Elgato Stream Deck MK.3

Quick Verdict

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset is a high-end gaming headset that offers excellent audio quality, active noise cancellation, and a dual-battery system for continuous use. It is compatible with multiple platforms and features user-friendly software for customization. The Elgato Stream Deck MK.3, on the other hand, is a control interface designed to streamline streaming and content creation workflows with its customizable LCD keys and powerful software integration. The choice between the two depends on the user's needs: the headset is ideal for gamers seeking premium audio and comfort, while the Stream Deck is perfect for streamers and content creators looking to improve their workflow and control.

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is a gaming headset with both wireless and wired connectivity, active noise cancellation, and a dual-battery system.
The Elgato Stream Deck MK.3 is a control interface with customizable LCD keys designed to streamline streaming and content creation workflows.
The SteelSeries headset focuses on audio quality, comfort, and multi-platform compatibility, while the Elgato Stream Deck emphasizes software customization and integration with streaming software.
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless has a frequency response of 10-40,000 Hz (wired) and 10-22,000 Hz (wireless).
The Elgato Stream Deck MK.3 does not have wireless connectivity built-in.

Key features – Side-by-Side

Attribute	SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset	Elgato Stream Deck MK.3
Name	SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset	Elgato Stream Deck MK.3
Wireless Connectivity	2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.0 (simultaneous 2.4GHz and Bluetooth for mixing game and mobile audio)	Not available. Some users have converted their Stream Deck to be wireless using Raspberry Pi.
Wired Connectivity	USB-C to USB-A, USB-C to USB-C, 3.5mm line-in and line-out	USB (Stream Deck MK.2 uses USB 2.0)
Microphone Quality	Bidirectional noise-canceling, ClearCast AI Noise Cancellation	Not available
Headphone Audio Quality	Frequency Response: 10-40,000 Hz (wired), 10-22,000 Hz (wireless), 40mm Neodymium Magnetic Drivers, 360 Spatial Audio (Tempest 3D Audio for PS5, Microsoft Spatial Sound)	Not available
Battery Life	Up to 22 hours (2.4GHz), 18-22 hours (simultaneous 2.4GHz and Bluetooth)	Not available
Charging Time	Less than 2 hours (full charge), USB-C Fast Charge: 3 hours use after 15 minutes	Not available
Software Customization	SteelSeries GG software with Sonar (EQ adjustments, profiles), Parametric EQ with 10-band equalizer, Onboard audio profiles	Powerful software for customization on PC and Mac. Customize controls, discover actions, and personalize appearance. Powerful plugins for various apps. Drag-and-drop setup and custom interface icons. Customize key icons with images or animated GIFs.
Build Quality	Steel headband, hard plastic hinges, metal outer headband, magnetic ear plates	High-quality build
Comfort	Suspended headband, leatherette ear cushions with memory foam, adjustable earcups	Not available
Compatibility	PC, Mac, PlayStation, Switch, Mobile, Dual USB connections	Windows and Mac
Button Customizability	Bluetooth button (media control, calls), Volume dial (ChatMix adjustment)	Customizable LCD keys. Keys can be customized with images or animated GIFs. Elgato's Key Creator tool allows you to design custom buttons.
Display Type and Resolution	OLED display on wireless base station	Customizable LCD keys. Icon images should have a minimum resolution of 72 x 72 pixels.
Price	Not available	Not available

Overall Comparison

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless: Frequency Response 10-40,000 Hz (wired), 10-22,000 Hz (wireless); Elgato Stream Deck MK.3: Customizable LCD keys with minimum resolution of 72 x 72 pixels.

Pros and Cons

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset

Pros:

Effective active noise cancellation
Clear microphone audio quality
Dual-battery system for continuous use
User-friendly software for customization
Premium build quality with steel frame

Cons:

Plastic hinges may be a concern
Limited earcup space for users with larger ears
ANC may not eliminate all loud noises

Elgato Stream Deck MK.3

Pros:

Powerful software customization for PC and Mac
Customizable LCD keys
Compatible with Windows and Mac
Integrates directly with streaming software like OBS, Twitch, YouTube
Easy to use software
High-quality build
Reliable button performance

Cons:

Wireless connectivity not included

User Experiences and Feedback

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset

What Users Love

Comfortable for long gaming sessions due to soft leatherette earcups and memory foam padding.
Effective at blocking out consistent background noises.
Clear audio quality, comparable to other gaming headsets.
User-friendly interface for customizing audio settings.
Generally feels solid and premium.

Common Complaints

Some users with larger ears may find the earcup space limited.
It may not completely eliminate louder noises like subway rumbles.
Some users have reported concerns about the plastic hinges.

Value Perception

Expect 18-22 hours with ANC and Bluetooth enabled.
Each battery can last up to 36 hours using only the 2.4GHz connection.
Audio quality may be slightly better with a wired connection.

Elgato Stream Deck MK.3

What Users Love

Easy to customize audio settings and button assignments
User-friendly software
Integrates well with OBS, allowing scene switching, source control, and effect activation
Can be used to control Discord, Twitch, and Spotify

Common Complaints

No major complaints reported.

Value Perception

No value feedback reported.

User Recommendations

Membrane switches deliver reliable performance with a signature press.