SteelSeries
SteelSeries Arctis 3
Bottom line: The SteelSeries Arctis 3 ($219.99 on Amazon as of 2026-10-06): Discord-certified ClearCast mic with background noise cancellation; main trade-off: wired-only via 3.5mm; no wireless or Bluetooth option.
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Discord-certified ClearCast mic with background noise cancellation
- ✓ One headset covers PC, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, VR, Android, and iOS
- ✓ AirWeave performance-fabric cushions keep ears cool on long sessions
- ✓ Windows Sonic spatial audio support on Windows 10 and Xbox One
Cons
- ✗ Wired-only via 3.5mm; no wireless or Bluetooth option
- ✗ Windows Sonic surround limited to Windows 10 PCs and Xbox One
- ✗ White finish shows scuffs and grime more than black models
- ✗ Detachable cables are extra parts to track and can be lost
Manufacturer description
The SteelSeries Arctis 3 is built for gamers who move between platforms without wanting a second headset. Detachable 3.5mm cables connect it to PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, VR rigs, Android, and iOS, so one pair of cans covers your whole setup. Sound comes from SteelSeries S1 speaker drivers, engineered for ultra-low distortion so footsteps and reloads stay distinct instead of smearing into the mix, with headphone sensitivity rated at 98 dB. The Discord-certified ClearCast microphone is the standout: it delivers studio-quality voice clarity with background noise…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored SteelSeries Arctis 3 using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the vr headsets & accessories category. SteelSeries's vr headsets & accessories lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for vr headsets & accessories of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the SteelSeries Arctis 3 work with PS5 and Xbox Series X?
It is specified for PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, VR, Android, and iOS. It connects over a detachable 3.5mm cable, so any controller or device with a 3.5mm jack is the deciding factor. Check the product listing for current console compatibility notes.
Is the Arctis 3 microphone good enough for Discord and streaming?
The ClearCast microphone is Discord certified and delivers studio-quality voice clarity with background noise cancellation. SteelSeries markets it as the best mic in gaming, and it is the feature buyers cite most in the reviews.
Is the Arctis 3 comfortable for long gaming sessions?
The ear cushions use athletics-inspired AirWeave performance fabric designed to keep your ears cool and dry, rather than the leatherette padding that traps heat during multi-hour sessions.
Does the Arctis 3 support surround sound?
Yes, through Windows Sonic spatial audio, which is fully compatible with the native surround built into Windows 10 PCs and Xbox One consoles. On other platforms you get stereo output from the S1 drivers.
Is the Arctis 3 wireless?
No. This model is wired and connects through detachable 3.5mm cables, which is what makes it work across PC, consoles, VR headsets, and phones without a dongle or pairing step.
Key Features
- Designed for everywhere you game, with superior sound, comfort and style on all gaming platforms, including pc, PlayStation, Xbox one, Nintendo switch, VR and mobile via detachable 3.5 millimeter cables
- Widely recognized as the best mic in gaming, the discord certified clear cast microphone delivers studio quality voice clarity and background noise cancellation
- Sound is your competitive advantage with the s1 speaker drivers, engineered to produce ultra-low distortion audio so you hear every detail
- Play all day with athletics inspired performance fabric air weave ear cushions that keep your ears cool and dry
- Windows sonic spatial audio fully compatible with native surround sound built into windows 10 pcs and Xbox one consoles; Headphone sensitivity: 98 dB
Full Specifications
| Brand | SteelSeries |
|---|---|
| Color | White |
| Theme | Video Game |
| Impedance | 32 ohm |
| Model Name | Arctis |
| Style Name | Arctis 3 |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
| Form Factor | Over Ear |
| Sensitivity | 98 db |
| Control Type | Noise Control |
| Model Number | 61506 |
| Compatibility | PC, Xbox, Switch, Android, iOS |
| Ear Placement | Over Ear |
| Noise Control | Active Noise Cancellation |
| Series Number | 61506 |
| Built-In Media | Headset, User Manual |
| Cable Features | Detachable, Retractable |
| Control Method | Remote |
| Earpiece Shape | Rounded Tip |
| Headphone Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
| Full listing title | SteelSeries Arctis 3 - All-Platform Gaming Headset - For PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, VR, Android, and iOS - White |
Ready to buy?
SteelSeries Arctis 3 - All-Platform Gaming Headset - For PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, VR, Android, and iOS - White is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
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