SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition)
Gaming · 2022 · PS5 Edition
Bose QC45
Over-ear · 2021
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition) lands at 88 and Bose QC45 at 88. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition) if…
- ✓Low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless (most)
- ✓Detachable broadcast mic
- ✓Console compatibility
Pick Bose QC45 if…
- ✓Flagship comfort + ANC on modern models
- ✓Premium build
- ✓Active noise cancellation (most models)
Winner by scenario
Derived from the sub-score breakdown · not a separate testSound quality
TieTuning, detail, and staging
Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.
Noise cancelling
Bose QC45ANC strength for commute and travel
Bose QC45 leads on anc (86 vs 70).
Comfort
TieLong-session wearability
Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.
Value for money
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition)Specdex score per dollar at MSRP
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition) more score per dollar ($249 vs $329).
Score breakdown
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition) | Bose QC45 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Gaming headset | Over-ear |
| Variant | PS5 Edition | — |
| Release year | 2022 | 2021 |
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition)
- +Low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless (most)
- +Detachable broadcast mic
- +Console compatibility
- −Bulkier than audiophile cans
- −Game-tuned EQ
- −Software required on PC
Bose QC45
- +Flagship comfort + ANC on modern models
- +Premium build
- +Active noise cancellation (most models)
- −Battery varies by codec
- −Some are Bluetooth-only
- −Price creep vs previous gen
FAQ: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition) vs Bose QC45
Which is better, SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition) or Bose QC45? +
Both score 88 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition) worth the price? +
At $249, SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition) delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in sound.
Is Bose QC45 worth the price? +
At $329, Bose QC45 delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in sound.
Does SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition) or Bose QC45 last longer? +
Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.
Which is better for noise cancelling, SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition) or Bose QC45? +
Bose QC45 — leads on anc (86 vs 70). ANC strength for commute and travel.
Which is the better value, SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition) or Bose QC45? +
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (PS5 Edition) — more score per dollar ($249 vs $329). Specdex score per dollar at MSRP.