SteelSeries introduced Arctis GameBuds wireless headphones, which are designed for use with game consoles Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch and others, as well as computers and smartphones. The new product supports active noise cancellation (ANC), Qi wireless charging and the function of quickly switching between devices.
Image source: SteelSeries
The Arctis GameBuds are very similar to most wireless headphones on the market. The package includes several silicone tips, so the user can choose the best option. Active noise cancellation is implemented using four microphones that help block out extraneous sounds. Transparency mode is supported, in which the user can hear what is happening around him.
To connect to Xbox and PlayStation consoles, as well as PCs, it is proposed to use a miniature adapter that connects via the USB Type-C interface and provides operation at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. Pressing the button on the headphones three times allows you to switch between a mobile connection via Bluetooth 5.3 and a wireless network for working with a PC or console. Switching is quick, but there’s no way to play audio through both channels simultaneously, like Sony’s Pulse Explore headphones do.
A companion application is provided to adjust the sound and work with the equalizer. It contains more than 100 sound settings for many popular games, such as Call of Duty, Destiny 2, Fortnite, and others. Using the application, you can switch between noise-canceling mode and transparency mode, and also adjust the level of each of them. The SteelSeries desktop application offers similar capabilities.
According to SteelSeries, Arctis GameBuds can last up to 10 hours on a single charge, and the storage case will provide three full charge cycles, increasing battery life to 40 hours. The case itself supports Qi wireless charging and is equipped with a USB Type-C interface.
Interestingly, SteelSeries has released separate versions of the headphones for Xbox and PlayStation. However, the PlayStation version only works with Sony consoles, PCs and smartphones, while the Xbox version works on all platforms. The Xbox version of the headphones also comes with an additional chip to comply with Microsoft’s security policies and a button to switch between devices. The white headphones are exclusive to PlayStation, while the black version is available for all platforms.
Customers can already pre-order the new Arctis GameBuds SteelSeries. Those wishing to do so will have to pay $159.99 or €169.99, depending on location.