The Arctis 3 is SteelSeries' new gaming headset with virtual 7.1 surround sound. The Arctis is designed to look subtle and classy compared to other gaming headsets. It's a reasonable headset but if your budget will stretch then we'd recommend buying the Arctis 5 instead.

Great looks and incredibly comfortable; Lovely sound range

Incredibly annoying software; Headsets with similar features are far cheaper; Bi-directional microphone can pick up background noise without specialist software; Arctis 5 costs only a little more and is better

SteelSeries makes gaming gear with longevity and versatility, from mice to keyboards to headsets. So I was more than happy to give their latest entry level headset, the Arctis 3 7.1 Surround Gaming Headset, a run through its paces. Does it meet up to the expectations of entry level gaming headsets?

Very soft, comfortable, and looks great; I love the customization on the headband (more available sold separately); Software and sound is great for this price level; I don't think anything compares at this price point

The mic is way too sensitive to background noises; Even with software adjustments, people have complained they can hear background sounds being way too amplified

The SteelSeries Siberia range needs little introduction, but having such a legendary headset under the belt presents high expectations for anything to follow. So, SteelSeries endeavoured to challenge every aspect of what a gaming headset is , and the result? The Arctis line of headsets.

If you're going to pay a premium for a wireless gaming headset , it should sound great, of course, but it should also be comfortable, work with as many devices as possible and look stylish.

Great sound; Comfortable fit; Reasonable price; Seamless wireless

Fine-tuning music takes some work; Roundabout phone and speaker functionality

The SteelSeries Arctis 3 are a very competent gaming headset available for a surprisingly low price. If you're on a tight budget, this headset will likely give you the best bang-for-your-buck performance you can find.

I truly believe we are in the golden age of gaming. Video games have never been more intense, and pressure-filled. In-game maps are more massive than ever, enemies are increasingly ferocious and graphically games are more life-like than ever before.

Very comfortable; Light; Versatile; Solid sounds

No USB connection; No color; Finicky software; Not the best headset on the market

+ Overall high quality + Good sounding mic (especially background noise cancelling) + Worked out of the box with my phone + Extra long cable with a jack splitter made it easier to use when on my PC - Headstrap and clamping force low (it slips my smaller head easily if I look down at all) -...

Very good sound and comfy

No

Best headset in every aspect, except for that it does not have microphone feedback.

Not nearly as tight as any other headset I've put on, and the ear pieces are super soft; You barely notice the headband because of steelseries' ski goggle band on it, Sound is fantastic.

Has no mic feedback; No multi-input; Not truly wireless for Xbox (it connects to the controller; that's how you get game sound and voice); but is amazing and fully wireless for PC