SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5X Wireless: problems, parts and running costs
Checked: 2026-10-11
Summary
The Arctis Nova 5X is a light, long-battery multi-system headset whose recurring complaints are loose fit on large heads, harsh mids and highs at high volume, no simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz audio, no wired fallback, and a T-shaped dongle that blocks ports. Running cost is minimal because there are no filters or subscriptions, with occasional replacement ear cushions as the only part. It is strong value at or below about $110, fair from $111 to $130, and weak above $130 where the Nova 7 adds simultaneous audio and a wired connection for $20 to $30 more.
Common problems and fixes
- Loose fit, no way to tighten — the headband sits loose with no adjustment beyond the inner strap, and large heads may not fit at maximum extension; it can slide when bending over. Try before buying if possible. [4][6][7]
- Poorly matched drivers — RTINGS measured inconsistent left/right frequency response, so effects sit in inconsistent positions. EQ can partly compensate. [2]
- No simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz — only one audio source at a time, unlike the Nova 7 line. Switch sources manually with the Quick-Switch button. [2][4][7]
- No wired fallback — a dead battery ends the session; there is no cable option. Keep it charged; quick charge adds about 6 hours in 15 minutes. [2][4]
- Plosives from the mic — no foam cover is included, so pops recur; software noise cancellation helps on PC. [4][6]
- Dongle blocks ports — the T-shaped USB-C dongle blocks the PS5 front USB-A port and nearby PC ports. Use the included USB-A to USB-C extension cable. [4][7]
- Secondary mic is tinny — the internal mic that takes over when the boom is retracted sounds compressed. Keep the boom extended for calls. [4]
- Mic stem too flexible — the retractable boom is hard to retract quickly. Handle it deliberately. [4]
Parts and consumables
Yearly running cost
Not enough data for a yearly dollar figure. There are no filters, pods or subscriptions; the only recurring item is occasional replacement ear cushions, whose price is not listed in the sources. Charging cost is not quantified in the sources. [4]
When it is a good buy
At or below about $110 the Nova 5X is strong value: light comfort, 50 to 60 hour battery, dual wireless and a good mic at a price below most competitors. [2][4][6] From $111 to $130 it is fair value, with sound-quality limits more noticeable. [4][7] From $131 to $150 it is weak value, and buyers should compare the Nova 7 line, which adds simultaneous Bluetooth and a wired connection for $20 to $30 more and is often on sale at $150. [4] Price history from the sources: launch MSRP $129.99 in June 2024 [6]; WIRED found $105 at Walmart and at SteelSeries in July 2024 [8]; CNET saw $130 at SteelSeries in May 2024 [4]; a June 2024 deal check had Best Buy at $149.99 and Lenovo and Walmart at $129.99 [6]; Best Buy listed the white variant at $138.99 when checked on 2026-10-11 [9]. The headset suits a multi-console gamer who values comfort and battery over absolute sound quality; buyers wanting a wired fallback or two audio sources at once should look at the Nova 7. [2][4]