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SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless vs HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset

Buy the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless for PC or PlayStation if you want active noise cancellation, wireless freedom and unlimited play time from two hot-swap batteries. Buy the HyperX Cloud Alpha for a wired, multi-platform headset that works on Xbox and Switch and costs far less. The Nova Pro Wireless is a premium flagship; the Cloud Alpha is a durable wired workhorse. Check the latest prices on both before deciding, since the gap between them is large.

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SteelSeries
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Gaming Headset Wireless

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Gaming Headset Wireless

4.5(7,500 ratings)
$249.99at Best BuyObserved at 6:53 AM
See all prices and details
Visit Best Buy

Store links may earn us a commission. Price via Klarna.

Choose the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless if you play on PC or PlayStation and want wireless audio, active noise cancellation and a battery that never runs out mid-session.

Pros
  • Active noise cancellation blocks room noise.
  • Two batteries hot-swap for unlimited wireless play.
  • 15-minute fast charge gets you back quickly.
  • 360 spatial audio and the Nova Pro acoustic system.
  • Works on PC and PlayStation over USB and Bluetooth.
Cons
  • Premium price.
  • No Xbox or Switch support listed.
  • No water resistance rating.
  • Heavier setup with the DAC and battery system.
HyperX
HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset

HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset

5(3 ratings)
See all prices and details

Choose the Cloud Alpha if you want one wired headset that works on Xbox, Switch, PC and mobile, and you would rather spend less than flagship money.

Pros
  • Works on nearly every platform via 3.5 mm.
  • Dual-chamber 50 mm drivers cut distortion.
  • Detachable noise-cancelling mic certified by Discord and TeamSpeak.
  • Aluminum frame and memory foam for long sessions.
  • Much lower price.
Cons
  • Wired only; no wireless or Bluetooth.
  • No active noise cancellation.
  • No spatial audio processing.
  • Needs a device with a 3.5 mm jack or the included PC extension.

What separates them

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro WirelessHyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset
ConnectionWireless (Bluetooth 5.0 plus USB)Wired 3.5 mm, detachable cable
BatteryTwo hot-swap batteries, unlimited play time, 15-minute fast chargeNone needed; powered by the source
Noise cancellationActive noise cancellationPassive isolation from closed-back cups only
PlatformsPC and PlayStationPC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch, mobile
Drivers40 mm, 10–40,000 Hz50 mm dual-chamber, 13 Hz–27 kHz
WeightNot listed; heavier with DAC and battery system298 g listed, 336 g in the description
MicrophoneBuilt-in boom on the headsetDetachable noise-cancelling, Discord and TeamSpeak certified
PricePremium flagship tierBudget-to-mid tier

Price history

$249.99$49.99
Oct 30Nov 7
  • SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless: lowest $97.95 on Oct 30 at Walmart; $249.99 on Nov 7.
  • HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset: lowest $49.99 on Nov 6 at maxgaming store.

Prices at every store

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless

  • Best BuyNew

    In stock

    $249.99Free shippingObserved at 6:53 AM
    Visit Best Buy
  • QuillNew

    Out of stock

    $379.99Free shippingObserved at 6:53 AM
    Visit Quill

Also available at

  • NeweggCheck price at Newegg
  • WalmartCheck price at Walmart

Store links may earn us a commission. Some prices via Klarna.

All 2 stores and price history →

HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset

  • AmazonCheck price at Amazon
  • Best BuyCheck price at Best Buy
  • eBayCheck price at eBay

Store links may earn us a commission.

Prices and history →

Specs compared

SpecSteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro WirelessHyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset
Frequency Response10-40,000 Hz13Hz–27kHz
Sensitivity93 dB98dBSPL/mW at 1kHz
Total Harmonic DistortionLower distortion (in comparison to GameDAC Gen …< 1%
Headphone Cup TypeOver-ear—
Body Part UseHead, Ears—
Noise Cancellation TypeActive—
Max Battery LifeUnlimited playing time (Hot-swap between 2 batt…—
Recharge Time15 Minute (fast charging time)—
Rechargeable BatteryYes—
Standby Time8 seconds (without a battery inserted)—
Earpad MaterialLeatherette, Faux leather—
Driver Size40 mm—
Show all 40 specsShow fewer specs
SpecSteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro WirelessHyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset
Headphone Impedance38 Ohm—
Sound Output360 0 Spatial Audio—
Audio HighlightsNova Pro Acoustic System—
Water ProtectionLack an IP rating for water resistance—
WaterproofNo—
Water ResistantNo—
Connectivity TechnologyWireless—
Wireless TypeBluetooth—
Bluetooth Version5.0—

What reviewers say

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless

  • 4.5 / 57,500 ratings

Rated 4.5 out of 5 from about 7,500 ratings, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is widely liked for its hot-swap battery system and active noise cancellation. Owners say the sound is detailed and the spatial audio helps in competitive shooters. Complaints center on the bulky base station, the older Bluetooth version and the lack of water resistance.

What people mention
  • BatteryPraisedOwners like that swapping the two batteries keeps the headset running with no charging pause.
  • Noise cancellationPraisedReviewers say the active noise cancellation noticeably cuts fan and room noise.
  • SoundPraisedThe 40 mm drivers and spatial audio are described as detailed and good for locating footsteps.
  • ComfortPraisedThe over-ear leatherette pads are called comfortable for multi-hour sessions.

HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset

Owners generally rate the Cloud Alpha highly for comfort, build and clear positional audio at its price. Common complaints are the tight clamp out of the box, warm ears from the leatherette pads and a mic that is good for chat but not broadcast quality.

What people mention
  • ComfortPraisedOwners say the memory-foam pads and light frame stay comfortable through long sessions.
  • BuildPraisedThe aluminum frame is widely described as tougher than most plastic headsets at this price.
  • Clamp forceCriticisedSeveral owners find the initial clamp tight and say it takes time to break in.
  • Ear heatCriticisedThe closed leatherette cushions trap heat, so ears get warm during long play.

Questions and answers

Which is better for competitive FPS gaming?
The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless gives you spatial audio and ANC, which helps focus on footsteps. The Cloud Alpha's dual-chamber drivers are clear and its wired link has no latency. Both work; pick wireless if cable drag bothers you.
Does the Cloud Alpha work on Xbox and Switch?
Yes. Its 3.5 mm connection covers Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch, PC, PS5 and mobile. The Nova Pro Wireless lists only PC and PlayStation.
Which lasts longer?
The Nova Pro Wireless never runs out because you swap between two batteries. The Cloud Alpha has no battery at all, so it lasts as long as the device it is plugged into.
Is the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless worth the extra money?
Only if you want wireless, active noise cancellation and unlimited battery life on PC or PlayStation. If you need Xbox support or a wired set, the Cloud Alpha covers more platforms for far less.
Which is more comfortable for long sessions?
The Cloud Alpha is about 298–336 g with memory foam and leatherette cushions, which suits long wired sessions. The Nova Pro Wireless adds a battery and DAC system, so try the fit before buying.
Do either have a microphone for voice chat?
Both do. The Cloud Alpha's mic is detachable and noise-cancelling, certified by Discord and TeamSpeak. The Nova Pro Wireless uses a built-in boom mic.

More comparisons

  • HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless Gaming Headset vs SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Gaming Headset Wireless

Buying guides that pick them

  • Best gaming headsets
Compatible Devices
PC, PlayStation
—
Ports And InterfacesUSB connections—
WirelessYes—
MicrophoneYes—
BluetoothYes—
Connector on Cable3.5 mm—
Battery Time (in use) (h)22.0—
Frequency Response (min) (Hz)10.0—
NFCNo—
Simulated Surround SoundYes—
Weight (oz)11.9—
ConsoleXbox One S, Xbox, Xbox Series S, PlayStation 4,…—
FoldableNo—
Type of HeadphoneOver-Ear—
Sensitivity (dB/mW)93.0—
Wi-FiNo—
Manufacturer ColorBlack—
USB TypeUSB-C—
Suitable for TrainingNo—