Arctis Gamebuds are renowned for their versatility and durability.

Headphones Arctis Gamebuds from SteelSeries set themselves an ambitious goal – to compete with classic earplugs. We tested a version of the headset specifically adapted for consoles. Xbox. However, we must first point out that, unlike the PlayStation version, the Xbox model can also be connected to a competing console. In both cases, the headphones are also compatible with Switch, computers and mobile phones.

The headphones operate in two easily switchable modes. You can use Bluetooth for a normal connection to a mobile phone, which is hassle-free and won’t surprise you, or to any other adequate device. For gaming, you will prefer a wireless connection via a dongle with minimal latency. The several-centimeter-long piece of hardware has USB-C, but you will also find an adapter in the box. Both connection methods are interchangeable, but it is obvious – perhaps also due to the size of the key – for which it is primarily intended.

When I first put the Arctis Gamebuds in my ears, I was honestly surprised by the sound quality. I compared them to slightly cheaper Audio-Technics (or even cheaper NiceBoys) and it was clear that next to more expensive high-end headphones the placement of the new jacks would be different, but they would provide excellent sound quality for the average user. I felt the biggest improvement in surround sound.

The headphones also cancel out sound from outside very well. They won’t provide absolute noise cancellation, of course, but there is a difference between ANC and transparent mode. on first listen know. The level of both modes can also be adjusted directly in the simple mobile app, as can the volume of the microphones or the volume limiter. Within the app itself, you’ll find nearly 180 equalizer settings, mostly for specific games. You can also customize controls directly on the headphones.

When I first saw the whole package open, I was filled with skepticism. Everything seems quite large, from the aforementioned key to the box and the connectors themselves. But in the end I didn’t have any problems. The headphones fit well on my ears, maybe someone else is missing spare tips of different sizes. The buttons on the headphones instead of the slightly more familiar touchpads also raise a question mark. But it’s actually nice that I don’t accidentally control the headphones when I put them on or put them back in the case. At the same time, the buttons are not hard, and there is no sign that they are damaged or have any other problem with them.

I can confirm that you can easily go without electricity for dozens of hours.

One of the most notable benefits of headphones is their durability. It lasts 6-10 hours on one charge, depending on the settings and connection method; when the charged box is discharged, the battery life increases to 40 hours. I can confirm that you can easily go without electricity for dozens of hours. This is a major upgrade over your average cheap headphones.

If I had to mention something that I’m not 100% happy with, it would be autoplay, which can be disabled, but overall it’s a pretty useful technology. Detection isn’t always perfect, but again, it’s nothing major. I also had it happen a couple of times that the audio wouldn’t play after automatically connecting to the console. A quick disconnect and reconnection of the headphones solved the problem. Additionally, initial pairing with devices took longer because the headphones had to be stored in a case. But this is really only the first contact, the subsequent connection is quick and does not deviate from established habits.

Arctis Gamebuds are a great choice if you’re looking for versatile headphones that can be used for both gaming and everyday wear. But you have to ask yourself if you want to play with earplugs and if you prefer a classic, large headset. Due to its versatility, I also think the price of just over CZK 4,000 is fair.