SteelSeries has announced the launch of its first set of truly wireless gaming earbuds, and their features really do suggest they could be a one-size-fits-all solution for anyone looking for the best in-ear headphones for their gear this year.
Like the Sony Inzone Buds and PlayStation Pulse Explore earphones, the Arctis GameBuds offer a range of premium features to create a compelling overall package.
SteelSeries is promoting this set of earphones as something that is not only great for gaming, but also something that is great for everyday exploit. You can exploit them anywhere, whether it’s listening to music, working, watching TV, watching entertainment, etc.
Leading the feature set are the 6mm neodymium drivers, which are tuned to SteelSeries’ high-quality signature, delivering “intense 360-degree sound” according to the brand. This is complemented by lively noise cancellation (ANC) powered by a quad-microphone system designed to enhance immersion during gaming sessions.
The third audio-focused feature — following in the footsteps of the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 wireless gaming headset — is compatibility with a companion app on mobile devices. It will work similarly to the Nova 5 app, offering over 100 game-specific presets, as well as a handful of helpful display features and options that can be selected and changed on the fly. This is done in conjunction with a built-in button that feels more like pressing down on a laptop mouse pad than the touch controls of other in-ear headphones.
The GameBuds also share the Arctis line’s recent penchant for cross-platform compatibility, as the headphones work across all major platforms, consoles, and devices. However, if you want the ultimate in headphone compatibility, the Xbox model – like most headsets of behind schedule – is the one to go for.
Completing the feature set are dual connectivity with Bluetooth 5.3 and 2.4GHz, a claimed battery life of over 40 hours (10 hours of exploit and three charges in the case), wireless charging with Qi wireless charging, and an ergonomic design developed based on over 62,000 ear scans.
The GameBuds have arrived at the perfect time to potentially pair them with a PS5 Pro, iPhone 16, or fresh Xbox console, and they look to offer a very opulent and compelling bundle that could compete with the best in the business.
The Arctis GameBuds are available to pre-order now on September 26 on the SteelSeries website – the same day that PS5 Pro pre-orders begin – and the headphones will hit stores on October 29. The GameBuds will be priced at $159.99 / £159.99 / AU$169.99.
We’ll have a full review of the SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds coming soon.
