Arctis 7 vs. Arctis Pro – Which Should You Choose?

If you enjoy online gaming, then there’s no doubt that you are aware of how important a great headset can be. Each sound should be crisp and clear, so you can hear things such as footsteps and reloads. The microphone must also capture clear and uninterrupted audio.

The team at SteelSeries makes fantastic headsets within their range of gaming accessories. Their two most popular models are the Arctis 7 and Arctis Pro, with both being the same price, so which one should you choose?

I’ve taken a look at both models to discover exactly what each has to offer. So let’s get into this Arctis 7 vs. Arctis Pro showdown.

SteelSeries Arctis 7

The Arctis 7 is available in two color options, including either black or white. If you choose white, only the frame and earpiece covers receive the white paint job. The earpads and headband padding are still black, which creates a nice contrast.

For those that prefer the all-black option, there are still some contrasts with a mixture of flat and matte blacks used. Both options look great. And they use premium materials such as steel, aluminum alloy, and leather in the construction.

Wireless compatibility…

This headset is compatible with almost any gaming device. PC, Mac, Playstation 4, Playstation 5, and Nintendo switch using a wireless USB dongle. You can also connect to a smartphone using a wired 3.5 mm analog connection. Making it one of the most versatile gaming headsets you can buy.

Wireless operates using the 2.4GHz radio frequency for low latency performance. The built-in rechargeable battery can provide up to 24-hours of playback from a single charge using the included Micro-USB charging cable.

Never miss an audio cue…

Featuring DTS Headphone: X v2.0, the next level of surround sound is on offer. Be completely immersed by hearing accurate positional audio cues. The sounds truly come to life all around you with S1 speaker drivers with a high level of detail and low distortion. As a result, this is one of the most immersive gaming headsets around.

You can also dial in your perfect mix of game sounds and chat audio using the physical ChatMix dial. Conveniently located on the left earpiece, it can be accessed quickly and easily with minimal disruption to your game.

Discord certified microphone… 

The ClearCast bidirectional microphone is Discord-certified and is fully retractable from within the headset. It is widely recognized as the best microphone for gaming. This is due to its studio-quality voice reproduction for clear and precise communication with your online friends.

The background noise cancellation is also superb, ensuring that other players only hear your voice. You can tell when someone else is also using a ClearCast mic, as it honestly sounds like they are in the room next to you.

SteelSeries Arctis Pro

Moving over to the Arctis Pro, there are many components shared with the Arctis 7, such as the premium materials. A combination of steel and aluminum alloy is used for lightweight durability. This is blended with leather on the headband and ear cups for ultimate comfort.

You also have the same choice of either a black or white-colored headset. There is some extra white such as across the top of the headband, although the same contrast is still present, with both options looking fantastic.

Wired reliability…

One of the main differences between the Arctis Pro and the Arctis 7 is connectivity. The Arctis Pro is a wired headset and doesn’t offer wireless connectivity. That said, you still get the same compatibility with PC, Mac, Playstation, Nintendo Switch, and smartphones. Along with the addition of Xbox compatibility as well.

Connectivity is achieved using either USB or the 3.5mm audio cable, depending on your chosen device. Using a wired connection also allows for some other capabilities that can’t be offered through a wireless connection.

High-resolution speaker drivers…

The Arctis Pro speaker drivers feature high-density neodymium magnets. This means the headset is capable of producing Hi-res audio up to 40,000Hz. This is nearly double what most other headsets offer, normally averaging 22,000Hz.

For a completely customized look, the Arctic Pro also benefits from Prism RGB illumination. 16.8 million colors can be chosen from along with custom effects with LEDs surrounding the earpieces. You can also sync with other SteelSeries Prism-enabled gear.

When you can’t improve on perfection…

The same DTS Headphone: X v2.0 surround sound can be found in the Arctis Pro headset. Enjoy the same spatial awareness and immersion offered by the Arctis 7, giving you a competitive edge over the competition. Meaning this is one of the best surround sound gaming headsets on the market.

Chatting online gains the same class-leading ClearCast retractable bidirectional microphone too. The convenient ChatMix dial is also retained, so you can always stay in complete control between game and chat audio balance.

Arctis 7 vs. Arctis Pro – Which Should You Choose?

If you prefer the convenience of wireless connectivity, then the Arctis 7 is for you. However, if you are an Xbox gamer, the Arctis 7 isn’t compatible with that system, unfortunately.

The Arctis 7 headset is incredibly comfortable. Specifically, the leather, which reduces irritation from sweat. They are also incredibly strong, light, and durable. Thanks to premium aluminum alloy construction.

Making a compromise…

If one extra cable in your life isn’t a bother, you will gain some slight advantages in the Arctis Pro. A more advanced driver and magnet technology give a boost to the already great sound quality. 

Compatibility also includes Xbox consoles for the Arctis Pro, along with some added customization possibilities. The RGB lighting with up to 16.8 million colors and cool effects certainly has its appeal.

Need a Great Gaming Headset?

We can help you with that. Check out our in-depth reviews of the Best Wireless Gaming Headsets, the Best PC Gaming Headsets, the Most Comfortable Gaming Headsets, the Best Gaming Headset, and the Best Gaming Headsets for Big Heads you can buy in 2023.

Also, have a look at our detailed reviews of the Best Xbox One Headsets, the Best Wireless PlayStation 4 Headsets, the Best Nintendo Switch Gaming Headsets, the Best Razer Gaming Headsets, the Best Headphones with Microphone, and the  Best USB-C Headphones currently on the market.

Arctis 7 vs. Arctis Pro – Which is the best?

Many of the main components between the Arctis 7 and Arctis Pro are the same. However, there are some minor differences. Most importantly, though, they both offer fantastic audio quality and a class-leading microphone.

Both items use only the best materials. Precision manufacturing resulting in a high-quality and reliable product. No matter which option you choose, it is sure to enhance your gaming experience to new levels.

Personally, I would go with the Arctis Pro for the slightly better sound quality. What’s one more cable anyway, right?

Until next time, game on.