SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1

Works on Windows, Mac, PS5 and Xbox, with a mute control.

HeadsetA light wired headset with a retractable mic for any controller, a PC or a Mac

Platform connections

“Works” means the maker lists that platform for the connection shown; “Maker doesn't say” means it doesn't mention it either way. On a headset, it also depends on the edition you pick.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1: how it connects and what you can adjust

Over the cable

  1. SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 microphone
  2. Its 3.5 mm plug
  3. Mic input on your PC or console
  4. Game chat
Connections
3.5 mm (4-pole)
Mute
Mute button on the headset
Hear yourself
Not listed by the maker

Choose it if…

  • You want game sound and voice chat in one headset.
  • You are happy to check your voice with your chat app’s mic test instead of hearing yourself continuously in headphones.
  • You want a wearable microphone rather than a separate desk stand or arm.

Before choosing this model

  • This is the multi-platform Nova 1. The Nova 1P and 1X console versions leave out the splitter cable, which a PC with separate mic and headphone jacks needs.
  • SteelSeries says not to use the mic while it's retracted.
  • It plugs in by cable, so there's no edition to match: use a jack that takes a headset mic, such as a controller's 3.5 mm jack.
  • No stand or arm needed: the mic is on the headset.
  • Use the cable in the box; you only need an adapter if your computer lacks that port.

Compare it

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Controls and specifications

PC · Mac · Xbox · PlayStation · Switch · Mobile. Software: SteelSeries GG on a PC: EQ and mic settings in Engine.

Connections, controls and fit
Connections 3.5 mm (4-pole)
Microphone mute Mute button on the headset
Monitoring Not listed by the maker
Chat controls mute button · volume wheel
Mounts Not listed by the maker
Dimensions Not listed by the maker
In the box and parts
Included parts Arctis Nova 1 headset · Main headset cable · Dual 3.5 mm extension cable (splitter)
Additional parts Depends on how you connect it and the headphones you use.
Manufacturer specifications for SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1.
Compatibility the maker lists PC, Xbox, PS5, PS4 and Switch; the product page adds Mac, Chromebook and phones
Connections One 4-pole 3.5 mm plug for a controller, a PC or a phone; a splitter for a PC with separate mic and headphone jacks
Microphone Retractable ClearCast mic
Pickup pattern Bidirectional
Controls Volume wheel and mic mute button on the headset
In the box Arctis Nova 1 headset · Main headset cable · Dual 3.5 mm extension cable (splitter)
Software SteelSeries GG on a PC: EQ and mic settings in Engine, optional

Questions about the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1

Does the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 work on PS5?

Yes, SteelSeries documents it. Pick it in the console's microphone settings and check the level before joining a party.

Does the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 work on Xbox Series / One?

Yes, SteelSeries documents it. Pick it in the console's microphone settings and check the level before joining a party.

Set it up for game chat.

  1. Connect the parts shown in the diagram. If you use XLR, connect the microphone to the interface before selecting it in your app.

  2. Choose the intended input in the operating system. Run the Discord input check or use your console’s microphone test.

  3. Check speaking level and mute with headphones on. Change only one gain, sensitivity or suppression control between tests.

References