Is the PS5 Pulse 3D Wireless Headset Worth It?

A standout feature of the PlayStation 5 is its support for 3D audio, fully immersing players into the game's environment.

Imagine crouching behind the foliage in the midst of a jungle—hearing the raindrops hit the floor, the crunching of branches under enemies' feet—welcome to 3D audio.

Sony's Tempest Engine means you can plug most wired headphones into the headphone jack on the DualSense controller.

However, if you want to go wireless, the PS5 Pulse 3D wireless headset is currently the only device compatible with the PS5's 3D audio.

Designed With PS5 in Mind

Perfectly aligned with the aesthetics of the PS5, the original Pulse 3D wireless headset boasts a simple two-tone color in black and white. However, Sony also released a Midnight Black variation on the headset, to work in harmony with the Midnight Black DualSense controller it debuted at the same time.

They look like pretty much any wireless headset, otherwise. Two cushioned cups sit over the ears, held in place by an adjustable headband. All very straightforward.

Sony places the PlayStation logo neatly at the base of the headset's adjustable strap. Owning a PS5 Pulse 3D headset, this writer can confidently that Sony has calibrated the pressure of the ear cups perfectly while also securing the headset in place, meaning the device causes no discomfort during long gaming sessions.

Related: Sony Has Released a New PS5 Model: Here's What's Changed

Although sturdy enough, Sony makes the ear cups from a leatherette material and the bridge from plastic. Plastic might not be the most environmentally friendly choice, but it drives the cost of the PS5 Pulse 3D headset down. At least the ear cups are animal friendly.

On the side of the left ear cup, the controls are easy to access, featuring a host of options including a rocker for game and chat audio and volume, a microphone toggle, mute button, and the power switch. There's a fair amount packed in, so mis-clicks are common, but after enough time to get used to the controls, they feel very intuitive.

The included dongle allows you to enjoy the Pulse 3D wireless headset, wirelessly, but there's also the option to use the 3.5mm jack to play while charging. The double-edged sword, however, means the battery on the controller will drain much faster.

My only real gripe with this headset is that I couldn't imagine myself wearing it outside of the home to listen to music, unlike some other wireless headphones.

How Does Sony's Pulse 3D Headset Perform?

Connecting the PS5 Pulse 3D headset is straightforward—plug the dongle into one of the USB ports on the console, then switch the headset on.

Once connected, the headset does a good job of delivering clear audio with simulated surround sound. Sure, listening to your favorite playlist might not compete with other wireless headsets, but that's not the focus here.

Sony's Tempest 3D AudioTech is the main reason for investing in this headset. Using the Pulse 3D with a supported game (which is currently somewhat limited), is what sets it apart. The realistic immersion is unbelievable, with the ability to detect the direction of footsteps and how far away they are.

While you can pair other headsets with the DualSense controller, nothing is comparable to the precision of the PS5 Pulse 3D headset.

How Much Does the PS5's Pulse 3D Headset Cost?

Sony prices the Pulse 3D wireless headset at $99. It's compatible with the PS4 and PS5 consoles and packs a hefty number of features that make it worth the price tag.

It's not going to replace your current pair of wired headphones, but if you want to make the most out of the PS5's 3D audio, nothing that's currently on the market can compete.

Inside this neat package, you get a wireless headset with USB-C charging, a built-in microphone and mic mute controls, dual-noise cancellation, and of course support for 3D audio.

Related: How Does 3D Audio Work, and Is It Different from Surround Sound?

What Sets the PS5 Pulse 3D Headset Apart?

To put it briefly, Sony's PS5 Pulse 3D wireless headset is the only headset that allows you to enjoy the full audio experience of the PS5.

It's not a Dolby Atmos competitor because it offers features in its own right. Gamers often get thrown the "get ahead of the game" bone, but this really is the case with Sony's pre-launch addition.

Not only is the Pulse 3D easy to set up, but you can also squeeze in 12 hours of wireless play before having to recharge. Even then, you can continue playing with the USB-C cable connected.

Is It Worth Buying the PS5 Pulse 3D Headset?

Unless you plan to hook the Pulse 3D headset up to Spotify on a regular basis instead of gaming, it's a worthy investment.

Sony's unique approach to 3D audio, paired with the Pulse 3D headset, accomplishes audio performance like no other.

If you don't have the space or budget for a fully pledged home cinema setup, this is the next best option, and it's a good one.