Which is better for flights?

The Soundcore Life Q20. Its hybrid ANC targets engine and cabin noise, and 40 hours with ANC on covers long trips. The Arctis Nova 3 has no ANC.

Which is better for PC gaming?

The Arctis Nova 3 Wireless. Its USB-C dongle gives a low-latency link and it works with PlayStation, PC and Switch. The Q20 is Bluetooth only, which adds audio lag in games.

Does the Q20 work with a wired connection?

Yes. It ships with an AUX cable, so you can listen wired when the battery runs out or on in-flight entertainment.

Which lasts longer on a charge?

The Q20, at 40 hours with ANC on and 60 hours off. SteelSeries does not publish a battery figure for the Arctis Nova 3 Wireless.

Is the Arctis Nova 3 worth it over the Q20?

Only if gaming latency and a boom mic matter to you. For music and travel, the Q20 gives ANC and longer battery for less money.

Can I use the Arctis Nova 3 with a phone?

Yes, over Bluetooth. The USB-C dongle also works with USB-C phones and tablets that support audio over USB-C.

Anker Soundcore Life Q20 vs SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless

Buy the Soundcore Life Q20 for travel, commuting and general music listening. Its hybrid ANC, 40-hour ANC battery life and $60-ish street price make it the better value for most shoppers. Buy the Arctis Nova 3 Wireless only if you need a low-latency gaming headset for PC or PlayStation with a USB-C dongle. Compare current store prices on both before you decide, since the Q20 often sells well below the Arctis.

Ask our shopping agent

It checks today's price at every store, compares the alternatives and answers in about a minute.