Also back there is a micro-USB port for charging and a headphone jack. “Most of the volume controls are located on the back of the right earcup, where you’ll find a volume dial, microphone mute button, power button and Bluetooth button. But they continue SteelSeries’ proud tradition of having the cushiest earcups I’ve even experienced. Due more to their large size and less with the fabric, the earcups grew warm against the sides of my head after long stretches. The large, oval earcups are heavily padded, and the padding is covered in a soft, breathable fabric. The band stretches a bit to create a comfortable, snug-but-not-too-snug fit on your head, but you have less than an inch of size adjustment by way the goggle strap’s Velcro fastener. The downside of the ski-goggle headband’s suspension-aided comfort is the small degree of adjustment it provides. And SteelSeries’ unique ski-goggle headband suspends them in a way that makes the headset feel lighter than it is.

At 13.1 ounces, the Arctis 9X is a heavy headset but still about an ounce lighter than the LucidSound LS35X. Part of that premium feel is a byproduct of the headset’s heft.

The Arctis 9X looks and feels like a premium product. Danielle Abraham + 1 moreThe headband frame is metal for added durability, and the plastic on the outside of each earcup has a soft-touch coating that adds a touch of luxury.

Arctis 9x