Sony has released the Pulse 3D wireless headset for the PS4 and PS5. But worth it the gaming headset at all or is there a better way to invest your money? MeinMMO editor Benedikt Schlotmann tested the headset and explains in the test what you get for 100 euros.
With the Pulse 3D wireless headset, Sony introduced the official headset for the PS5. In terms of design, the console and the gaming headset harmonize well with each other. But can the device also convince in terms of ergonomics and sound?
I have extensively tested Sony’s gaming headset for you and explain what you get for around 100 euros. I also look at what you can get as an alternative for the money and why in most cases it is even the better choice.
Features and technical details:
design and construction
The Sony Pulse 3D matches the look of the PlayStation 5 perfectly. The headset uses a black and white look without additional color accents. Sony has completely dispensed with RGB lighting and has opted for a more reserved design with the Pulse 3D.
Sony has placed all the important controls on the left ear cup. Here I can switch the headset on and off, change the volume or mute the microphone. The buttons are close together and feel pretty much the same, which I find counterintuitive as I either have to guess or take off the headset.
It would have been better to distribute the control buttons to both ear cups or to use a ratcheted wheel for the volume. All keys feel the same and can hardly be distinguished by their haptics.
The headset charges via a USB-C port either through the console or through the PC. I have never seen a charging station for the headset like there are charging stations for PS5 controllers. Alternatively, the headset can also be connected via the included 3.5mm jack cable.
processing
At first glance, the headset looks quite high-quality thanks to its simple design. Nevertheless, the device consists almost exclusively of plastic. There are no metal reinforcements in the brackets or in the attachments of the ear cups. Other headsets, such as those from TurtleBeach or SteelSeries, appear to be better made here.
The ear pads are interchangeable according to several users, but I haven’t checked that myself. Replacement pads cost around 15 euros on Amazon. However, my ear pads also had no wear damage in the test.
software
No software for the gaming headset is available on the gaming PC. Here you have to use the settings that are already given.
On the PS5, the software is built into the system. Here you can make sound and equalizer settings directly from the console. You don’t have to install any additional software. The menu is a bit hidden, but otherwise works intuitively. 3D audio can also be switched on or off on the PS5 in this way and additionally adjusted.
A bit strange: As soon as I connect the headset to the PS5 via the adapter, I can no longer control the microphone and the sound volume via the PS5, but have to do it via the headset. I still find the Mute button on the DualSense controller to be more intuitive.
On the next page you can read about the comfort and sound of the headset. I also go into the battery life and range of the model.