If your SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 isn’t connecting the way it should, don’t worry—we’ll get you back in the game fast. Follow the steps below depending on how you’re trying to connect.
2.4GHz Wireless Connection Issues ⚡
The Nova 5 uses a USB-C wireless dongle for its ultra-low latency 2.4GHz connection. If your headset isn’t linking up or keeps cutting out:
1. Check the Dongle Placement
- Make sure the dongle is firmly plugged into your device (PC, console, or dock).
- Pro tip: connect directly to the device’s port, not through a hub.
2. Verify the Mode on the Dongle
- If you have Nova 5X, double-check it’s set to the right mode for your system before you jump back into the match.
3. Re-Pair the Headset
Follow these steps if you need to re-pair:
- Connect the USB-C Wireless Dongle to your gaming device.
- Press and hold the Dongle’s Pairing Button for 4 seconds until the Dongle’s Status LED blinks rapidly.
- Pairing with the headset on – Press and hold the QuickSwitch Button for 2 seconds until you hear “Dongle Pairing Mode” and the headset’s Power Indicator LED blinks rapidly.
- Pairing with the headset off – Press and hold the power button for 2 seconds until the headset’s Power Indicator LED blinks rapidly.
- When pairing is successful, you will hear “Dongle Connected” and the Dongle’s Status LED will turn solid.
4. Test on Another Device
- Plug the dongle into a different PC or console to confirm if the issue is with your setup or the dongle itself.
Bluetooth Connection Issues 📱
The Nova 5 also supports Bluetooth for mobile, chat, or music on the side while you game. If you can’t pair or keep the connection stable:
1. Clear Old Pairings
- Forget "Arctis Nova 5P" from your device’s Bluetooth list.
- Hold the Bluetooth button on your headset until the LED rapidly blinks blue to start fresh pairing.
2. Enable Bluetooth on the Device
- Make sure Bluetooth is turned on and discoverable.
3. Pair Again
- Select “Arctis Nova 5P” from the list and confirm the connection.
4. Check for Interference
- Bluetooth can get a bit “noisy” in crowded wireless spaces—stay close to your device for the best connection.
Nova 5X Model: Xbox Connection Issues 🎮
The Arctis Nova 5X is the only Nova 5 model built for Xbox. If you’re not getting connected on your Series X|S or Xbox One:
1. Flip the Dongle Toggle
On the dongle, switch to:
- Xbox for Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One.
- USB for PC, PlayStation, or other platforms.
2. Re-Pair the Headset
Follow these steps if you need to re-pair:
- Connect the USB-C Wireless Dongle to your gaming device.
- Press and hold the Dongle’s Pairing Button for 4 seconds until the Dongle’s Status LED blinks rapidly.
- Pairing with the headset on – Press and hold the QuickSwitch Button for 2 seconds until you hear “Dongle Pairing Mode” and the headset’s Power Indicator LED blinks rapidly.
- Pairing with the headset off – Press and hold the power button for 2 seconds until the headset’s Power Indicator LED blinks rapidly.
- When pairing is successful, you will hear “Dongle Connected” and the Dongle’s Status LED will turn solid.
3. Confirm Your Model
- Only the Nova 5X is Xbox-compatible.
- The Nova 5 and Nova 5P won’t work with Xbox—even if you'd purchase the Nova 5X dongle separately.