Astro A50 Vs Arctis Nova Pro – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Astro A50 & Arctis Nova Pro share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as sound quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Arctis Nova Pro rather than the Astro A50. 

Why Do I Recommend The Arctis Nova Pro

  • The Arctis Nova Pro features advanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with a transparency mode for immersive gaming in noisy environments, while the Astro A50 does not include ANC.
  • Arctis Nova Pro Wireless supports high-resolution audio & features a more refined sound profile with enhanced bass response and clearer highs, while the Astro A50 focuses on Dolby Atmos with a narrower frequency range.
  • It has a retractable bidirectional microphone with AI noise-canceling for enhanced call clarity even in noisy environments, but the Astro A50 has a unidirectional microphone.
  • The Arctis Nova Pro has dual wireless technology with 2.4G wireless and Bluetooth to provide versatile connectivity for bluetooth-enabled devices, but the Astro A50 connects via a base station.
  • Arctis Nova Pro Wireless comes with two swappable batteries, each lasting up to 20 hours, allowing for continuous use without downtime, while the Astro A50 has a single built-in battery lasting over 15 hours.
  • It has a durable steel and aluminum construction and a ski-goggle headband for better comfort, whereas the A50 is heavier with a plastic-dominated build.
  • The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless includes an OLED display for enhanced control & convenience and also supports audio source mixing. The A50’s base station is designed for charging only.

Maybe the Astro A50 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Arctis Nova Pro. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureArctis Nova ProAstro A50
Active Noise CancellationAdvanced ANC with Transparency ModeNo ANC
Wireless ConnectivityDual Wireless: 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth2.4 GHz Wireless (via base station only)
Simultaneous ConnectionsYes, supports Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz simultaneouslyNo
Battery TypeHot-swappable dual batteriesBuilt-in rechargeable battery
Battery Life20 hours per battery (40 hours with swap)15+ hours
Charging MethodSwappable batteries via dockCharging via base station
Base Station FeaturesOLED screen, multi-device pairing, advanced controlDolby Atmos support, preset EQ profiles
Audio DriversHi-Fi drivers for premium sound qualityASTRO Audio V2 for detailed sound
EQ CustomizationParametric EQ customization with softwarePreset EQ profiles
Mic DesignRetractable stealth mic with AI noise-cancelingFlip-to-mute mic
Mic Noise CancellationAI-powered noise reductionNo AI noise reduction
Build QualityPremium aluminum with polished finishPlastic and metal combination
WeightLighter design (~337g)Heavier design (~380g)
CompatibilityPC, PS5/PS4, Switch, MobilePC, PS5/PS4, Mac
PriceCheck Nova Pro PriceCheck Astro A50 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Wireless Technology: Both headsets utilize 2.4 GHz wireless technology for reliable, low-latency connections. This ensures smooth gameplay with minimal audio delay, a critical feature for competitive gaming.
  • Multi-Platform Compatibility: Both headsets are compatible with multiple gaming platforms, including PC, PS5, and PS4, making them versatile options for gamers who use more than one system.
  • High-Quality Audio: While the audio tuning differs (Hi-Fi Drivers vs. ASTRO Audio V2), both headsets prioritize delivering rich, immersive sound with a focus on clarity and positional accuracy, ideal for gaming and entertainment.
  • Comfort-Oriented Design: Both headsets are designed with extended gaming sessions in mind, featuring plush ear cushions and adjustable headbands for maximum comfort.
  • Included Base Station: Each headset includes a dedicated base station that serves as a hub for audio control and connectivity. This adds convenience and allows for quick adjustments to settings without disrupting gameplay.
  • Built-in Microphone: Both models include built-in microphones designed for clear communication during gaming. The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless has a retractable stealth mic, while the A50 features a flip-to-mute mic. Both options prioritize ease of use and clean aesthetics.
  • Software Support: Both headsets offer dedicated software for customization. SteelSeries uses the GG Software, while ASTRO uses the Command Center, allowing users to tweak audio settings, create profiles, and optimize their experience.

Common Features

FeatureArctis Nova ProAstro A50
Wireless Technology2.4 GHz Wireless2.4 GHz Wireless
Multi-Platform CompatibilityPC, PS5, PS4PC, PS5, PS4
High-Quality AudioPremium Hi-Fi DriversASTRO Audio V2
Comfort-Oriented DesignDesigned for long gaming sessionsDesigned for long gaming sessions
Included Base StationBase station for control and customizationBase station for control and customization
Built-in MicrophoneRetractable stealth microphoneFlip-to-mute microphone
Software SupportSteelSeries GG Software for customizationASTRO Command Center for customization
Price Check Nova Pro Price Check Astro A50 Price

FAQ

Q: Are both headsets compatible with multiple gaming platforms?
A: Yes, both headsets support multiple platforms. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is compatible with PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices, while the ASTRO Gaming A50 Wireless supports PC, PS5, PS4, and Mac.

Q: Do both headsets use wireless technology?
A: Yes, both headsets use 2.4 GHz wireless technology for low-latency, reliable audio connections. However, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless also includes Bluetooth for simultaneous multi-device connectivity, which the A50 does not offer.

Q: Do both headsets come with a base station?
A: Yes, both models include a base station for audio control and device management. The SteelSeries base station has an OLED screen for advanced features, while the ASTRO base station focuses on Dolby Atmos support and preset EQ profiles.

Q: Are the microphones on both headsets suitable for gaming communication?
A: Yes, both headsets feature built-in microphones designed for clear communication. The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless has a retractable stealth mic with AI noise-cancellation, while the A50 has a flip-to-mute mic that offers solid performance without AI enhancements.

Q: Can the audio on both headsets be customized?
A: Yes, both headsets offer customization options. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless uses the GG Software for parametric EQ adjustments and profile management, while the ASTRO Gaming A50 utilizes the ASTRO Command Center for customizing audio settings and EQ profiles.

Q: Are both headsets comfortable for long gaming sessions?
A: Yes, both headsets are designed with comfort in mind. They feature cushioned ear pads and adjustable headbands, making them suitable for extended use without causing discomfort.

Q: How do the audio drivers compare on both headsets?
A: Both headsets deliver high-quality audio tailored for gaming. The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless uses premium Hi-Fi drivers for rich and immersive sound, while the A50 features ASTRO Audio V2 for precise soundstage and audio clarity.

Q: Do both headsets support noise cancellation?
A: No, only the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless includes active noise cancellation (ANC) with a transparency mode. The ASTRO A50 does not have ANC but relies on its closed-back design for passive noise isolation.

Q: Are there any significant differences in battery life?
A: Yes, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless uses hot-swappable dual batteries with up to 40 hours of total playtime (20 hours per battery). The ASTRO A50 has a built-in rechargeable battery offering around 15+ hours of usage.

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