SteelSeries is launching a pair of in-ear headphones specially designed for gamers. Called Arctis GameBuds, they feature over 100 presets for video games and benefit from a dual Bluetooth connection and low latency on 2.4 GHz.
While the brand offers many headsets in its catalog of gaming accessories, the Arctis GameBuds are the first in-ear headphones from SteelSeries. These models hope to find a place of choice in the hollow of the ears of gamers looking for a solution less heavy than a headset. For this, they are particularly light and almost forgettable.
They stand out for their versatility, offering wide compatibility with the main gaming platforms. They are available in black, a model rather designed to accompany the Microsoft Xbox console, or in white, predestined to be associated with the Sony PlayStation.
Dual wireless connectivity for all uses
One of the strong points of these headphones is their wireless connection system. Indeed, these headphones not only integrate Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity (SBC codec only ) for use with mobile devices but also low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless technology, essential for games requiring optimal responsiveness. This connection is made via an extremely compact USB-C dongle, making it easy to connect to various consoles and computers. For practical reasons, the dongle naturally finds its place in the case supplied with it.
Onboard ANC and great comfort
SteelSeries highlights several audio technologies in its Arctis GameBuds. The 360-degree spatial audio aims to offer significant sound immersion, particularly appreciable in action or shooting games. We can also count on the presence of an active noise reduction function which isolates the player from surrounding noise.
SteelSeries claims to have paid special attention to comfort, citing the use of over 62,000 ear scans to design the shape of the earbuds. However, several sizes of silicone eartips are included to accommodate different body shapes. The earbuds have buttons to control certain functions. You can control the volume, mute the microphone, and activate or deactivate the noise cancellation function. In addition, three successive presses on either earbud switch between 2.4 GHz wireless mode and Bluetooth. The controls are customizable.
Arctis GameBuds are officially IP55-certified to withstand sweat and splashes.
A complete application with more than 100 presets and great battery life
The company has also developed a mobile application to optimize the audio rendering of the headphones, but in addition, it has the advantage of offering access to more than 100 audio presets specific to different games. Configurations are also provided for simply listening to music. However, we were able to see the application in action and we regret that the presets dedicated to this last activity are not available separately, in another tab, for example, which would have simplified access.
The Arctis GameBuds are rated for 10 hours of battery life per charge, with the option to recharge three additional times through the case, for a total of 40 hours of use. With a 15-minute charge, you can get up to 3 hours of listening time, according to the brand. Note that the case is compatible with Qi wireless charging.
SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds Price and Availability
With a recommended retail price of 169.99 euros, the Arctis GameBuds are positioned in the high-end segment of gaming headphones. With this model, SteelSeries wants to compete with the PlayStation Pulse Explore headphones but also the Sony InZone Buds, the Logitech G Fits or the Razer HammerHead Pro HyperSpeed.
