Sennheiser HD 800 S vs SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
By Billy G. · Founder & Lead EditorVerified May 21 by Billy G.
Sennheiser HD 800 SvsSteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Worth-It Score: 76/100WAITSennheiser HD 800 S scores well, but current pricing sits above our fair-price band. Wait for a price drop before pulling the trigger.
✓VerifiedConfidence: 82%
Verdict: The Sennheiser HD 800 S outperforms on pure audio metrics with a 56mm driver and 4 Hz-51 kHz response per manufacturer specs and RTINGS testing, while the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless leads in wireless gaming utility with its dual-battery system and 40mm drivers. The HD 800 S wins for critical listening but trails in convenience features. This is a close call only if wireless gaming is the sole priority.
How we scored itSpec verificationOwner sentimentLive pricing (4h refresh)Editorial reviewOur methodology →
Winner: Sennheiser HD 800 S
Sennheiser HD 800 S: 9/10
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless: 7.5/10
Spec-by-spec comparison
Sennheiser HD 800 S
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Driver Size
56mm
40mm
Impedance
300 ohms
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Frequency Response
4 Hz - 51 kHz
10 Hz - 40 kHz
Weight
330 g
480 g
Sennheiser HD 800 S
What works
Reference-level soundstage and detail retrieval
Neutral and accurate frequency response
Durable metal construction with premium materials
What doesn't
Requires dedicated headphone amplifier
Open-back design leaks sound and offers no isolation
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
What works
True wireless with dual-battery hot-swap system
Retractable microphone with AI noise cancellation
Integrated DAC and parametric EQ via software
What doesn't
Closed-back design limits soundstage compared to open headphones
Higher weight reduces long-session comfort
Bottom line
Our pick: Sennheiser HD 800 S. It edges out the alternative on reference-level soundstage and detail retrieval. That said, SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless still wins on true wireless with dual-battery hot-swap system — consider it if that single trade matters most for your use.