SteelSeries' new gaming headset offers pro quality at a reasonable price

SteelSeries announced the new Prime franchise of peripherals on May 25. Designed with input from pro gamers, the Arctis Prime headset feels built for competition.

Described by SteelSeries as the “rally car of headsets,” the Arctis Prime feels more like a Buick Grand National: straightforward in style with a lot of power under the hood.

High-fidelity 40mm audio drivers are tuned for maximum sound and “detail separation” so you can pinpoint the direction of any sound — and the distance — up to 40,000 Hz.

Right out of the box, the elastic ski band is a bit cumbersome to adjust, but once you get it just right, it’s easy to forget you’re even wearing a headset.

The leatherette ear cushions are comfortable and effective at canceling out some noise, even if they sit a bit firm on your head.

The aluminum and steel alloy frame weighs only about 3/4 of a pound, and with the weight so well-distributed on your head, it’s barely noticeable.

The Arctis Prime lacks some of the bells and whistles of higher-end headsets, but at this price point, it beats out all of its direct competition with crisp sound and a clean design.