Hardware

Published on December 5th, 2024 | by John Werner

SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds Review

When it comes to gaming peripherals, SteelSeries has a reputation for delivering high-quality products tailored for gamers. The Arctis GameBuds are no exception, offering a compact yet powerful solution for gaming and audio enthusiasts alike. As someone who had never used in-ear earbuds like these before, I found the transition both challenging and rewarding, and now, I can confidently say that the Arctis GameBuds have earned a place in my daily life.

Initial Impressions and Comfort

Getting accustomed to the GameBuds was a learning curve. At first, I struggled with comfort. They felt like they were jammed too deep into my ears, which caused discomfort and even a bit of pain. After experimenting with the various silicone tips provided, I finally found the right fit. It made a world of difference. A tip for future users: take the time to adjust the fit and consider giving your ears a thorough cleaning beforehand to ensure the best experience.

Now that I’ve settled into using them, the GameBuds are surprisingly comfortable. They stay securely in place, even during extended gaming sessions, and no longer cause any irritation. This initial adjustment phase highlights the importance of properly customizing the fit, a step that could make or break the experience for first-time users of in-ear gaming earbuds.

Unrivaled Audio Quality

The audio quality of the Arctis GameBuds is nothing short of phenomenal. I was blown away by how something so small could produce sound with such clarity and richness. One memorable experience involved listening to a live stream of a street performer playing the piano. I was so mesmerized by the crisp, detailed sound that I felt as if I was standing right next to the performer, hearing every note resonate in real time.

This level of audio fidelity is further enhanced by the Arctis Companion App, which provides access to a variety of preset equalizer (EQ) profiles. With over 100 customizable presets, the app allows users to tailor the sound experience to specific games, music genres, or personal preferences. The PC version of the app offers even more advanced customization options, making the GameBuds a truly versatile audio solution.

Seamless Connectivity Across Devices

One of the standout features of the Arctis GameBuds is the USB-C 2.4GHz wireless adapter. This tiny adapter allows for ultra-low latency connections with devices such as gaming consoles and PCs, ensuring an uninterrupted and immersive audio experience. What sets it apart is the clever design of the charging case, which includes a dedicated slot for storing the adapter. This small but thoughtful feature has proven invaluable.

Instead of leaving the adapter plugged into a single device and risking its misplacement, I can safely store it in the case. This makes it easy to switch between platforms, such as moving from a gaming console at home to a work computer. It’s a simple solution to a common issue, but one that adds significant practicality and convenience.

Additionally, the earbuds’ ability to stay connected to my phone even while using another device is a game-changer. For example, if I’m listening to music on my computer and receive a phone call, the GameBuds will alert me. I can answer or decline the call with a quick tap on the right earbud, and once the call ends, the earbuds seamlessly switch back to the computer audio. This multitasking capability is a standout feature that enhances their usability beyond gaming.

Active Noise Cancellation: A Mixed Bag

The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) feature is another key selling point of the Arctis GameBuds. In theory, ANC uses built-in microphones to block out external noise, creating an immersive listening environment. However, my experience with ANC wasn’t entirely textbook. While enabling ANC seemed to amplify the music slightly, I didn’t notice a significant reduction in background noise. The differences between ANC modes—off, hybrid, and fully enabled—were subtle at best.

Where ANC truly shines, however, is in its impact on voice perception. With ANC turned off, talking felt like I had my fingers in my ears, hearing a muffled echo of my own voice. Hybrid mode introduced a fascinating effect: the microphones picked up my voice and played it back to me, creating a sensation similar to talking on the phone. Fully enabled ANC eliminated echoes entirely, making my voice sound soft and clear, almost as if I were whispering. This nuanced functionality, while unconventional, made the ANC feature surprisingly useful in specific scenarios.

Everyday Versatility

The Arctis GameBuds are more than just gaming earbuds—they seamlessly integrate into daily life. The combination of high-quality audio, low-latency wireless connectivity, and intuitive controls makes them a versatile tool for work, entertainment, and communication.

One of the most impressive aspects of the GameBuds is their ability to adapt to different use cases. Whether you’re gaming, taking a call, or listening to music, these earbuds deliver consistently excellent performance. The companion app’s EQ presets, ranging from 179 game-specific profiles to user-created ones, highlight their flexibility and user-centric design.

Conclusion

The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds are a remarkable achievement in the world of gaming audio. Their compact size belies their power, delivering stunning audio quality and versatile features that cater to gamers and everyday users alike. While there’s a learning curve in finding the right fit and some room for improvement in the ANC functionality, these earbuds more than make up for it with their innovative design, seamless connectivity, and exceptional sound.

SteelSeries has created a product that doesn’t just excel in one area but provides a holistic audio solution. From the intuitive companion app and the thoughtful adapter storage in the charging case to the ability to manage calls without interrupting gameplay, the Arctis GameBuds are a triumph of form and function. For anyone looking to elevate their gaming and audio experience, these earbuds are an excellent choice.

About the Author

John Werner Web Designer by day, Gamer by every other hour. No game is too big or too indie for this gamer. I review from the heart and an open mind. Every game is worth giving a go!

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