SteelSeries Arctis 7P+ Wireless Review

The SteelSeries Arctis 7P+ is a so-so device that comes at a price that is not backed up by what the headset has to offer. We think there are much better devices available, such as other models in our gaming headset review.

Performance Comparison

Comfort

The SteelSeries Arctis 7P+ is not a super comfortable gaming headset. We weight the comfort metric the most heavily simply because you won't get much use out of one of these devices if you can't keep it on your head for long due to discomfort. That said, the Arctis 7P+ isn't what we would call an uncomfortable device, as we were able to keep it on our heads for an average of 7.5 hours before discomfort set in. For reference, we were able to wear several other headsets for around 9-10 hours.

The headband and the ear cups are the primary features that contribute to a comfortable headset. The Arctis 7P+'s headband is relatively difficult to adjust properly — it is either too loose or pulls the ear cups out of position. Conversely, the ear cups fit nicely. The device is constructed with a medium stiff foam that holds its shape. This headset is also covered with breathable mesh-like fabric that kept our heads at a comfortable temperature for over an hour before we noticed a build-up of heat. All told, the comfort of the Arctis 7P+ is just so-so.

Audio

Here too, the Arctis 7P+ delivered another slightly below-average performance. A big part of this metric is a series of tests that assess the headsets' ability to facilitate positional audio awareness. While the Arctis 7P+ isn't outstanding on this critical capability, it does a decent job though testers sometimes had to move their heads to hone in on sounds. Yet, in the end, the headset got the job done.

We also assess the headsets for their ability to deliver clear audio from fellow gamers. Here we found the Arctis 7P+ to be a little flat sounding. However, it did have good volume. All in all, the audio was adequate for gaming purposes and is about average for the class. Additionally, we assess the music quality produced. ​​The sound from the Arctis 7P+'s speakers is very flat compared to other models. Finally, the closed back design of the Arctis 7P+ proved to be below average at blocking out external noises and was particularly bad at blocking nearby voices. To sum up, this headset has slightly below-average audio.

Microphone

The microphone is an important hardware component of any serious gaming rig. Just as we tested the speakers for voice audio coming in, we also tested the Arctis 7P+ for the audio its mic captured. While the audio is good enough for communication, it does not have the clarity of the higher-ranked models and was decidedly tinny, with 'P' sounds popping out. However, the mic does well not to pick up background noises. Finally, the mute on the microphone is total, with no humming or the like evident.

Ease of Use

While we place the ease of use metric lowest in importance, it is nonetheless a big contributor to consumer satisfaction. It should be noted that all gaming headsets are plug-and-play, so they're all pretty easy to use. The Arctis 7P+ garnered an average performance in this analysis, largely based on our dislike for short charging cables (the Arctis' is 5 feet long) and our appreciation for the unit's detachable microphone. Additionally, the unit has an onboard side tone dial that allows one to hear their voice through the headphones. This is a relatively uncommon feature but useful for closed back devices.

Should You Buy SteelSeries Arctis 7P+?

Simply put, no, you should not buy the SteelSeries Arctis 7P+. This headset performs at an average level and has a significantly above-average price tag. You can do much better for less money.

What Other Gaming Headsets Should You Consider?

If you are interested in purchasing a wireless headset, check out the Corsair HS80 RGB. This device did quite well across the board in our evaluations and costs significantly less than the Arctis 7P+. If you want better performance and greater savings than the Corsair — and you're willing to consider a wired device to get them — have a look at the Kraken V3 HyperSense.