How to Connect the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 to Any Device (Console, PC, Mobile)
By - Che Browndon
Written-on - November 21, 2025
This is the second Arctis Nova headset I will be talking about after Nova 1. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 is an amazing
gaming headset built around a USB-C connection with a 3.5mm compatibility on some models. This makes it an easy pick for gamers with multiple platforms. It features a ClearCast Gen-2 mic tech, AI noise cancellation via SteelSeries Sonar on PC, and it is also platform friendly when it comes to connectivity for the PS5, Switch, PC, and Mobile.. This article is going to reveal how to connect Nova 3 on PS5, Xbox, PX, Switch and Mobile. Information about mic setup, common fixes and when you might need adapters will also be included.
Things to Know Before Connecting Your Nova 3
Before connecting your SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3, it’s important to understand that it’s a wired USB-C gaming headset and its different from the Nova 3X. The Nova 3 and Nova 3X work similarly but the Nova 3X is optimized for Xbox consoles. The SteelSeries Nova 3 supports USB-C, USB-A (with an adapter), and 3.5mm analog connections making it compatible with PS5, Xbox, PC, Nintendo Switch, and Mobile Devices. Even though the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 is compatible with a lot of devices, advanced features like SteelSeries Sonar, Surround Sound, and AI Microphone Noise cancellation are only available on PC. Console players would need to rely on System Audio Settings. Also, if your device lacks USB-C or a headset jack, you will need a proper adapter that supports microphone input.
How to Connect the Arctis Nova 3 to PS5
Method 1: Using USB-C Cable (The best and recommended option)
To do this, plug in the USB-C cable into the Arctis Nova 3. Insert the other end into any USB port on your PS5 (front or back) and wait a few seconds for the PS5 to detect it automatically. On your PS5, go to Settings -> Sound -> Audio Output and set the Output Device to USB Headset (Arctis Nova 3). After that you go to Settings -> Sound -> Microphone and set the Input Device to USB Headset (Arctis Nova 3).
Method 2: Using USB-A Adapter
In this case, connect your USB-C to USB-A adapter and plug it into your PS5’s USB-A port. Then you go to Settings -> Sound -> Audio Output and set the Output Device to USB Headset (Arctis Nova 3). Also go to Settings -> Sound -> Microphone and set the Input Device to USB Headset (Arctis Nova 3).
How to Enable 3D Audio and Test Mic in PS5
To enable 3D Audio on PS5, go to Settings -> Sound -> Audio Output. Turn ON 3D Audio for Headphones and follow the instructions you see on screen to personalize it for your ears. To test your Mic on PS5, go to Settings -> Sound -> Microphone -> Adjust Microphone Level. Speak and make sure to volume bar responds and you have successfully tested your mic.
How to Connect Arctis Nova 3 to Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One
Xbox does not support USB wired audio like PlayStation or PC so you need to use the controllers 3.5mm jack. To do this, first turn on your Xbox controllers. Plug the 3.5mm headset cable into the controller’s headphone port and plug the other end into your Arctis Nova 3. After that you turn on your Xbox console and press the Xbox button on your controller. Go to Profile & System -> Settings -> Volume & Audio Output and adjust the Headset Volume and Game/Chat mixer based on your preference. Finally, speak into the mic to confirm others can hear you.
If you mic isn’t working, make sure the cable is fully pushed in. You can also check if your controller firmware is updated. To do this, go to Setting -> Devices & connections -> Accessories -> select your controller -> Choose update. You can also try another controller if nothing works.
How to Connect Arctis Nova 3 to PC or Laptop
Method 1: Using USB-C
To do this, plug the USB-C into the headset and connect it to a USB-C port on your PC or laptop. After that, you just need to wait for Windows to install the audio diver automatically.
Method 2: Using USB-A
The first option (Using the USB-C) is the most recommended but if your laptop only has USB-A, connect a USB-C to USB-A adapter and plug it into your PC’s USB-A port.
How to set the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 as Default Audio Device on PC
In order to do this, right-click on the speaker icon on the taskbar, Click on Sound Settings and under Output, select SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3. Under Input, Select SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Microphone.
The SteelSeries GG Software
This is optional but you can download and install the SteelSeries GG software. Open the software and go to Sonar. Set Sonar as the main audio device in Windows and adjust your EQ, mic clarity, and volume level. You can check sound by opening Voice Recorder and speak to see if the mic is working.
How to Connect the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 to Nintendo Switch
Handheld mode
Turn on your Nintendo Switch and plug the USB-C cable from your Nova 3 into the USB-C port at the bottom of the Switch. The headset will start working automatically for game audio. If the game supports in-game voice chat, your mic will also work.
Docked Mode
If your Nintendo Switch is docked, plug the headset’s USB-C or USB-A into one of the dock’s USB ports. Your headset will work for Sound output.
I also want to point out that most Switch Games require a separate phone app for Voice chat except some games like Fortnite.
How to Connect the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 to Mobile
Android
If your phone has a USB-C port, plug the headset directly into it. If your phone only supports 3.5mm audio, use the headsets 3.5mm cable. It’s also good to make sure your phone is not in “Charging only” mode.
iPhone
IPhones do not have a USB-C or headphone jacks. In this case, you’ll need a Lightning to USB-C adapter or a Lightning to 3.5mm adapter with mic support. Plug the headset into the adapter then into your iPhone. You should use a high quality adapter that supports microphone and audio (and not audio only).
SteelSeries Nova 3 Mic Setup and Sound Optimization tips
You should position the Nova 3’s boom mic about one fingers width from your mouth and angle it slight to the side to reduce breath noise. You can lower the mic if there’s a voice clip. On PC, you can also disable Windows “Enhancements” and set input level so normal speed hits 70 – 85%. You can use SteelSeries GG and Sonar to apply ClearCast noise reduction and a mild EQ boost of around 1 to 4 kHz for clarity. I know I have mentioned this before but SteelSeries GG and Sonar are available only on PC. Test your mic in a voice app and keep adjusting until your speech sounds natural and not distorted.
Some Common Nova 3 Issues and Their Fixes
If there’s no sound, make sure the cable has been connected well and you’ve chosen the correct Output in your systems audio settings. If you mic isn’t working, you should verify input device, check the mute switch, and update controller/USB driver. Another issue people face is crackling. This can be solved by trying a different USB port, replacing cheap adapters, or using a USB-C port with a clean connection. If your device isn’t recognized on consoles, try to use a compatible adapter (USB-A or USB-C) or plug the Nova 3 into the controllers 3.5mm jack. You can also update firmware and retest it.
Closure
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 is a versatile headset and it’s easy to use across the PS5, Xbox, PC, Switch and Mobile depending on whether you pick the right connection or not(USB-C, 3.5mm, or adapter). It also depends on how you tweak the mic and output settings. You can follow the steps above for different platforms to learn about how to connect the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3.
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