The SteelSeries Arctis 5 headset is a decent plug-and-play accessory even before you install the accompanying software. Audio Performance of SteelSeries Arctis 5 The 3.5mm attachment is quite small and easy to misplace, so there’s a benefit in putting it away when not in use. Using the 3.5mm attachment for handheld gaming removes the ChatMix dial but makes the wire much shorter. This allowed me to keep the dial about an arm’s length away, which is perfect for being able to reach it when necessary and make sure it didn’t interfere with any movements or my best gaming mouse when I didn't need it. The good news is that there’s a very comfortable amount of distance between the main cord and the ChatMix dial. I had to fold up the remainder of the cord and tuck it behind my gaming PC to keep my space organized.

Unfortunately, the cords are rather long and would get tangled and feel cumbersome while gaming. Users can connect to smartphones and controllers with the 3.5mm adapter. The main cable plugs into the ChatMix dial, which then plugs into a PC, Mac, or gaming console via USB Type-A. The controls on the Arctis 5 are simple and include a volume wheel and a mute button for the microphone. Setting the mic back in place is as easy as taking it out. It is malleable, allowing for easy adjustment and even turns outward.

I noticed a major boost in this comfort between this headset and the Patriot Viper V380, which isn’t that much heavier at 10.88 ounces (310g) but has larger cups and a thicker, braided cord.Īdding to its futuristic design, the Arctis 5 microphone retracts easily from the base of the left cup. Weight-wise, the Arctis 5 is on the lighter end at just 9.76 ounces(277g). The headphones can also swivel flat to be worn around the neck. I didn’t have any issues wearing the SteelSeries Arctis 5 for a few several hours of gaming.

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