SonySony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset (PS5)
78
BUYARY SCORE
Immersive planar magnetic sound and versatile connectivity shine despite durability and mic issues.
The Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset (PS5) is a sonic powerhouse tailored for gamers craving immersive planar magnetic sound and ultra-low latency via lossless PlayStation Link wireless tech. Designed to elevate PS5 play with crisp 3D audio and plush comfort, it dazzles experts but divides users on its fragile plastic build and occasional connectivity quirks. The retractable mic’s AI noise rejection impresses yet leaves some voice clarity gaps, while the versatile dual-device pairing keeps multitasking smooth. Priced at $149, it offers premium features with trade-offs in durability—making it a smart pick for those prioritizing sound over ruggedness in their gaming setup.
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Benefits
Trade-Offs
Studio-grade positional audio
Planar drivers deliver precise 3D sound, improving focus and spatial awareness in gameplay.
Short-lived plastics
Water-resistant plastic and glued pads prone to cracking, shortening lifespan and creating waste.
Clearer voice capture
AI noise-rejecting boom mic yields clearer chat, reducing communication stress and social friction.
Battery lifecycle cost
Rechargeable Li-ion battery increases embedded carbon and eventual disposal footprint over time.
Long, reliable battery
Up to 30 hours plus fast top-up reduces interruptions and device anxiety during long sessions.
Hearing strain risk
Closed cups and immersive bass can encourage louder listening, increasing long-term hearing strain.
Low-latency lossless link
PlayStation Link lossless connection lowers lag, improving reaction time and reducing frustration.
Connectivity instability
Dongle and Bluetooth disconnects may force repeated resets, disrupting focus and raising stress.
Custom PS5 EQ
PS5 EQ presets let you tailor sound, helping listening comfort and reducing fatigue.
Limited repairability
Non-modular design and glued components make repairs difficult, pushing replacements over fixes.
Benefits
Studio-grade positional audio
Planar drivers deliver precise 3D sound, improving focus and spatial awareness in gameplay.
Clearer voice capture
AI noise-rejecting boom mic yields clearer chat, reducing communication stress and social friction.
Long, reliable battery
Up to 30 hours plus fast top-up reduces interruptions and device anxiety during long sessions.
Low-latency lossless link
PlayStation Link lossless connection lowers lag, improving reaction time and reducing frustration.
Custom PS5 EQ
PS5 EQ presets let you tailor sound, helping listening comfort and reducing fatigue.
Trade-Offs
Short-lived plastics
Water-resistant plastic and glued pads prone to cracking, shortening lifespan and creating waste.
Battery lifecycle cost
Rechargeable Li-ion battery increases embedded carbon and eventual disposal footprint over time.
Hearing strain risk
Closed cups and immersive bass can encourage louder listening, increasing long-term hearing strain.
Connectivity instability
Dongle and Bluetooth disconnects may force repeated resets, disrupting focus and raising stress.
Limited repairability
Non-modular design and glued components make repairs difficult, pushing replacements over fixes.
Alternatives
Publications
7 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
77
David Carnoy from CNET highlights the Sony Pulse Elite Wireless Headset as a compelling option for PS5 gamers and audiophiles alike, thanks to its rare planar magnetic drivers that deliver clear, detailed, and well-balanced sound at a relatively affordable $150 price point. He praises its comfortable design, solid passive noise isolation, and excellent microphone performance, especially for voice calls and multiplayer gaming. The headset’s ability to connect simultaneously to multiple devices and its low-latency wireless link via the PlayStation Link USB adapter further enhance its appeal. While slightly heavier and bulkier than some competitors, it remains comfortable for extended sessions. Carnoy notes some drawbacks, including the lack of active noise cancellation, limited onboard controls when paired with phones, and the need for a dongle with the PS5. Despite these minor issues, he considers the Pulse Elite a standout in its class, offering premium sound quality and features typically found in much more expensive headphones, making it a relative bargain for serious gamers and music lovers.
86
Jaron Schneider from IGN highlights the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset as a strong contender for PS5 gamers, praising its exceptional sound quality, comfort, and impressive battery life. The review emphasizes the headset’s use of planar magnetic drivers, delivering precise and natural audio that excels in gaming scenarios and even performs well for music listening. Unique features like PlayStation Link wireless connectivity and multipoint audio enhance usability, allowing seamless switching between devices. However, Schneider notes some drawbacks, including an unusual design that may not appeal to everyone and a microphone that falls short compared to similarly priced competitors, offering clear but somewhat narrow and muddled voice quality. The reviewer also points out minor usability quirks, such as sidetone settings being buried in the PlayStation menu. Overall, despite the microphone’s limitations and aesthetic concerns, the Pulse Elite’s premium audio performance and thoughtful features make it a highly recommended choice for PlayStation 5 users at its $150 price point.
77
David Carnoy from CNET highlights the Sony Pulse Elite Wireless Headset as a compelling option for PS5 gamers and audiophiles alike, thanks to its rare planar magnetic drivers that deliver clear, detailed, and well-balanced sound at a relatively affordable $150 price point. He praises its comfortable design, solid passive noise isolation, and excellent microphone performance, especially for voice calls and multiplayer gaming. The headset’s ability to connect simultaneously to multiple devices and its low-latency wireless link via the PlayStation Link USB adapter further enhance its appeal. While slightly heavier and bulkier than some competitors, it remains comfortable for extended sessions. Carnoy notes some drawbacks, including the lack of active noise cancellation, limited onboard controls when paired with phones, and the need for a dongle with the PS5. Despite these minor issues, he considers the Pulse Elite a standout in its class, offering premium sound quality and features typically found in much more expensive headphones, making it a relative bargain for serious gamers and music lovers.
86
Jaron Schneider from IGN highlights the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset as a strong contender for PS5 gamers, praising its exceptional sound quality, comfort, and impressive battery life. The review emphasizes the headset’s use of planar magnetic drivers, delivering precise and natural audio that excels in gaming scenarios and even performs well for music listening. Unique features like PlayStation Link wireless connectivity and multipoint audio enhance usability, allowing seamless switching between devices. However, Schneider notes some drawbacks, including an unusual design that may not appeal to everyone and a microphone that falls short compared to similarly priced competitors, offering clear but somewhat narrow and muddled voice quality. The reviewer also points out minor usability quirks, such as sidetone settings being buried in the PlayStation menu. Overall, despite the microphone’s limitations and aesthetic concerns, the Pulse Elite’s premium audio performance and thoughtful features make it a highly recommended choice for PlayStation 5 users at its $150 price point.
77
David Carnoy from CNET highlights the Sony Pulse Elite Wireless Headset as a compelling option for PS5 gamers and audiophiles alike, thanks to its rare planar magnetic drivers that deliver clear, detailed, and well-balanced sound at a relatively affordable $150 price point. He praises its comfortable design, solid passive noise isolation, and excellent microphone performance, especially for voice calls and multiplayer gaming. The headset’s ability to connect simultaneously to multiple devices and its low-latency wireless link via the PlayStation Link USB adapter further enhance its appeal. While slightly heavier and bulkier than some competitors, it remains comfortable for extended sessions. Carnoy notes some drawbacks, including the lack of active noise cancellation, limited onboard controls when paired with phones, and the need for a dongle with the PS5. Despite these minor issues, he considers the Pulse Elite a standout in its class, offering premium sound quality and features typically found in much more expensive headphones, making it a relative bargain for serious gamers and music lovers.
86
Jaron Schneider from IGN highlights the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset as a strong contender for PS5 gamers, praising its exceptional sound quality, comfort, and impressive battery life. The review emphasizes the headset’s use of planar magnetic drivers, delivering precise and natural audio that excels in gaming scenarios and even performs well for music listening. Unique features like PlayStation Link wireless connectivity and multipoint audio enhance usability, allowing seamless switching between devices. However, Schneider notes some drawbacks, including an unusual design that may not appeal to everyone and a microphone that falls short compared to similarly priced competitors, offering clear but somewhat narrow and muddled voice quality. The reviewer also points out minor usability quirks, such as sidetone settings being buried in the PlayStation menu. Overall, despite the microphone’s limitations and aesthetic concerns, the Pulse Elite’s premium audio performance and thoughtful features make it a highly recommended choice for PlayStation 5 users at its $150 price point.
77
David Carnoy from CNET highlights the Sony Pulse Elite Wireless Headset as a compelling option for PS5 gamers and audiophiles alike, thanks to its rare planar magnetic drivers that deliver clear, detailed, and well-balanced sound at a relatively affordable $150 price point. He praises its comfortable design, solid passive noise isolation, and excellent microphone performance, especially for voice calls and multiplayer gaming. The headset’s ability to connect simultaneously to multiple devices and its low-latency wireless link via the PlayStation Link USB adapter further enhance its appeal. While slightly heavier and bulkier than some competitors, it remains comfortable for extended sessions. Carnoy notes some drawbacks, including the lack of active noise cancellation, limited onboard controls when paired with phones, and the need for a dongle with the PS5. Despite these minor issues, he considers the Pulse Elite a standout in its class, offering premium sound quality and features typically found in much more expensive headphones, making it a relative bargain for serious gamers and music lovers.
86
Jaron Schneider from IGN highlights the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset as a strong contender for PS5 gamers, praising its exceptional sound quality, comfort, and impressive battery life. The review emphasizes the headset’s use of planar magnetic drivers, delivering precise and natural audio that excels in gaming scenarios and even performs well for music listening. Unique features like PlayStation Link wireless connectivity and multipoint audio enhance usability, allowing seamless switching between devices. However, Schneider notes some drawbacks, including an unusual design that may not appeal to everyone and a microphone that falls short compared to similarly priced competitors, offering clear but somewhat narrow and muddled voice quality. The reviewer also points out minor usability quirks, such as sidetone settings being buried in the PlayStation menu. Overall, despite the microphone’s limitations and aesthetic concerns, the Pulse Elite’s premium audio performance and thoughtful features make it a highly recommended choice for PlayStation 5 users at its $150 price point.
YouTube
12 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
86
DankPodsDankPods praises the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for its balanced, natural sound thanks to planar magnetic drivers and thoughtful design, highlighting features like the charging hanger and dual connectivity. However, he criticizes the microphone quality as poor and finds volume controls coarse, tempering enthusiasm despite the headset’s strong value and unique tech.
86
GadgetryTechJoe from GadgetryTech praises the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for its exceptional detail retrieval, accurate sound signature, and AI-powered noise-rejecting mic, making it a top wireless FPS headset under $200. He notes minor drawbacks like glued ear pads, lack of dedicated game/chat mix buttons, and a bright treble profile, but highlights its strong value and PS5 EQ customization.
86
DankPodsDankPods praises the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for its balanced, natural sound thanks to planar magnetic drivers and thoughtful design, highlighting features like the charging hanger and dual connectivity. However, he criticizes the microphone quality as poor and finds volume controls coarse, tempering enthusiasm despite the headset’s strong value and unique tech.
86
GadgetryTechJoe from GadgetryTech praises the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for its exceptional detail retrieval, accurate sound signature, and AI-powered noise-rejecting mic, making it a top wireless FPS headset under $200. He notes minor drawbacks like glued ear pads, lack of dedicated game/chat mix buttons, and a bright treble profile, but highlights its strong value and PS5 EQ customization.
86
DankPodsDankPods praises the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for its balanced, natural sound thanks to planar magnetic drivers and thoughtful design, highlighting features like the charging hanger and dual connectivity. However, he criticizes the microphone quality as poor and finds volume controls coarse, tempering enthusiasm despite the headset’s strong value and unique tech.
86
GadgetryTechJoe from GadgetryTech praises the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for its exceptional detail retrieval, accurate sound signature, and AI-powered noise-rejecting mic, making it a top wireless FPS headset under $200. He notes minor drawbacks like glued ear pads, lack of dedicated game/chat mix buttons, and a bright treble profile, but highlights its strong value and PS5 EQ customization.
86
DankPodsDankPods praises the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for its balanced, natural sound thanks to planar magnetic drivers and thoughtful design, highlighting features like the charging hanger and dual connectivity. However, he criticizes the microphone quality as poor and finds volume controls coarse, tempering enthusiasm despite the headset’s strong value and unique tech.
86
GadgetryTechJoe from GadgetryTech praises the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for its exceptional detail retrieval, accurate sound signature, and AI-powered noise-rejecting mic, making it a top wireless FPS headset under $200. He notes minor drawbacks like glued ear pads, lack of dedicated game/chat mix buttons, and a bright treble profile, but highlights its strong value and PS5 EQ customization.
86
DankPodsDankPods praises the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for its balanced, natural sound thanks to planar magnetic drivers and thoughtful design, highlighting features like the charging hanger and dual connectivity. However, he criticizes the microphone quality as poor and finds volume controls coarse, tempering enthusiasm despite the headset’s strong value and unique tech.
86
GadgetryTechJoe from GadgetryTech praises the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for its exceptional detail retrieval, accurate sound signature, and AI-powered noise-rejecting mic, making it a top wireless FPS headset under $200. He notes minor drawbacks like glued ear pads, lack of dedicated game/chat mix buttons, and a bright treble profile, but highlights its strong value and PS5 EQ customization.
86
DankPodsDankPods praises the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for its balanced, natural sound thanks to planar magnetic drivers and thoughtful design, highlighting features like the charging hanger and dual connectivity. However, he criticizes the microphone quality as poor and finds volume controls coarse, tempering enthusiasm despite the headset’s strong value and unique tech.
86
GadgetryTechJoe from GadgetryTech praises the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for its exceptional detail retrieval, accurate sound signature, and AI-powered noise-rejecting mic, making it a top wireless FPS headset under $200. He notes minor drawbacks like glued ear pads, lack of dedicated game/chat mix buttons, and a bright treble profile, but highlights its strong value and PS5 EQ customization.
Social
4 INFLUENCER REVIEWS
92
DavidBigohdGaming finds the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for PS5 to be a fantastic upgrade, praising its superior comfort, immersive sound quality, and thoughtful design details like the PS-symbol USB stick. They highlight clear mic performance and solid battery life, while noting minor quirks like the slightly heavier weight and occasional mic echo. Overall, BigohdGaming enthusiastically recommends the headset for PS5 users, emphasizing its excellent value and enhanced gaming experience. Their balanced yet upbeat review conveys genuine personal enjoyment and confidence in the product’s quality.
87
Lamarr WilsonLamarr Wilson highlights the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset’s comfortable fit, 20-hour battery life, and useful features like a retractable mic and dual audio via PlayStation Link and Bluetooth. He notes the lack of noise cancellation but praises the sound quality and minimal sound bleed, sharing a hands-on, casual first impression. Overall, Lamarr finds these headphones a solid upgrade over previous models, especially for PS5 gamers seeking comfort and versatile connectivity. While not perfect, he warmly recommends them for their feel and functionality, inviting questions and showing genuine enthusiasm without overlooking minor drawbacks.
92
DavidBigohdGaming finds the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for PS5 to be a fantastic upgrade, praising its superior comfort, immersive sound quality, and thoughtful design details like the PS-symbol USB stick. They highlight clear mic performance and solid battery life, while noting minor quirks like the slightly heavier weight and occasional mic echo. Overall, BigohdGaming enthusiastically recommends the headset for PS5 users, emphasizing its excellent value and enhanced gaming experience. Their balanced yet upbeat review conveys genuine personal enjoyment and confidence in the product’s quality.
87
Lamarr WilsonLamarr Wilson highlights the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset’s comfortable fit, 20-hour battery life, and useful features like a retractable mic and dual audio via PlayStation Link and Bluetooth. He notes the lack of noise cancellation but praises the sound quality and minimal sound bleed, sharing a hands-on, casual first impression. Overall, Lamarr finds these headphones a solid upgrade over previous models, especially for PS5 gamers seeking comfort and versatile connectivity. While not perfect, he warmly recommends them for their feel and functionality, inviting questions and showing genuine enthusiasm without overlooking minor drawbacks.
Store Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 STORE
35
Users on Target praise the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for its exceptional sound quality, highlighting the clarity delivered by planar magnetic drivers and the impressive AI noise rejection on the retractable microphone. Many gamers enjoy the immersive audio experience, noting the headset’s ability to distinctly capture in-game sounds and directional cues, which enhances gameplay. Reviewers also appreciate the dual connectivity feature that allows simultaneous use with the PS5 and Bluetooth devices, as well as the convenient charging wall mount that adds to the headset’s futuristic appeal. However, a significant number of Target customers report persistent issues with build quality and connectivity. Users frequently encounter the headset’s plastic components cracking, especially around the headband and ear areas, often within a few months of use. The headset also suffers from random disconnections from the PS5, requiring users to unplug and replug the USB dongle to restore connection. Several reviewers express frustration over the lack of a dedicated game/chat audio balance control outside of PlayStation party channels, which limits customization during multiplayer sessions. Additionally, some find the comfort inconsistent, particularly for larger head sizes, and mention that the sound quality noticeably improves only when applying external pressure to the ear cups—a detail that may confuse users expecting consistent audio performance. While the PULSE Elite impresses with its audio fidelity and innovative features, Target users caution that its durability and firmware stability need urgent improvement. Many recommend treating the headset with care or opting for alternative models until Sony addresses these shortcomings.
2.3 Stars / Few verified reviews
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
64
Reddit users express mixed feelings about the Sony PULSE Elite Wireless Headset for PS5, praising its sound quality, comfort, and battery life, with some highlighting its seamless integration with the console and useful features like simultaneous device connectivity. However, many criticize its fragile design, frequent disconnection issues, and inconsistent build quality, leading to frustration and returns. While some long-term users report durability and satisfaction, a significant portion of the community warns about the headset’s tendency to break easily and connectivity problems, advising caution for new buyers and suggesting the product may not justify its price despite its audio performance.
Many comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Planar magnetic driversdetailed, immersive 3D audio
- •Advertised to provide lossless PlayStation Linklow-latency wireless for gaming audio
- •Simultaneous dual-device connectivityPS Link audio plus Bluetooth multitasking
- •Retractable AI noise-rejecting microphonedesigned to reduce background noise
- •Comfort for long sessionsplush cushions support extended wear
- •Long battery life and quick chargemany users report all-day playtime
Considerations
- •Intermittent wireless disconnectionsrandom dongle and Bluetooth drops reported
- •Fragile plastic constructioncracking and glued pads reported early
- •Microphone consistency issuesvoice can be echoey or narrow
- •Limited on-device controls and customizationEQ and sidetone often require PS5
- •Snug earcup pressure and heatcan cause discomfort or voice awareness
- •No passive wired modeheadset must be powered for wired use
Sony’s latest wireless headset steps confidently into the premium PS5 accessory arena, aiming to impress gamers who crave precision audio and seamless multitasking. Featuring planar magnetic drivers that deliver rich, immersive 3D soundscapes, it sets a new bar beyond its Pulse 3D predecessor. Designed for competitive and cinematic gaming alike, this headset shines with lossless PlayStation Link wireless technology, ensuring ultra-low latency—and pairs effortlessly with Bluetooth devices for calls or music on the side. While comfort is boosted by plush cushions ideal for marathon sessions, durability takes a hit from fragile plastics prone to wear. The retractable boom mic sports AI noise rejection but occasionally struggles with clarity under pressure. Battery life impresses with up to 30 hours plus fast charging, keeping you in the zone longer without hunting outlets. If you’re after detailed sound and versatile connectivity wrapped in Sony’s ecosystem charm—but want all angles considered—stick around as we unpack what makes this headset stand out (and where it stumbles).
Build quality and durability
A tale of mixed craftsmanship: sleek plastic housing offers lightweight comfort but at a cost—users report fragile components prone to cracking after moderate use, especially around stress points like headbands and ear cups. While water-resistant plastics add resilience against light moisture, glued pads limit repairability leading many toward early replacements over fixes. This fragility contrasts sharply with premium ambitions; treat these beauties gently or risk frustrating breaks undermining their otherwise stellar sonic prowess in the long haul.
Microphone performance and voice clarity
The retractable boom mic boasts AI-powered noise rejection aiming for crystal-clear communication amid multiplayer mayhem—a game changer when it works smoothly! Yet voices sometimes come through echoey or narrow-toned compared to rivals' mics costing similar coin. Sidetone controls are buried deep in settings rather than easily accessible buttons which frustrates quick adjustments mid-game chatter sessions. Despite clear improvements over predecessors, expect functional rather than flawless mic delivery—solid enough for squad talk but not professional streaming-level brilliance.
Wireless connectivity and latency
Say goodbye to laggy chaos thanks to the proprietary PlayStation Link lossless wireless tech, offering ultra-low latency crucial for competitive edge. Dual-device pairing via Bluetooth adds seamless multitasking magic—game on PS5 while answering calls effortlessly. However, reality bites with reports of random disconnections requiring USB dongle resets and occasional Bluetooth hiccups dampening reliability. Firmware updates have smoothed rough edges but persistent connectivity quirks mean this feature shines brightest when conditions align perfectly for uninterrupted play.
Sound quality / Audio performance
Dive into a sonic playground with planar magnetic drivers that deliver rich, immersive audio, crafting precise 3D soundscapes perfect for gaming’s spatial demands. The headset excels in clarity and detail across frequencies, supporting Sony's Tempest 3D Audio on PS5 for authentic positional cues. Users praise the crispness and balanced profile but note bass isn’t earth-shattering—more refined than booming. Overall, it elevates gameplay immersion with studio-grade accuracy while demanding some pressure on ear cups to unlock its full audio potential.
Conclusion
When sound takes center stage, this headset’s planar magnetic drivers deliver a vivid 3D audio canvas that thrills gamers craving spatial precision. Its lossless PlayStation Link wireless tech promises near-zero lag, though occasional disconnects remind you it’s no flawless wizardry. The trade-off for featherlight comfort and plush ear cushions is a delicate frame prone to cracks—so handle with care if durability matters. The AI-powered retractable mic clears out background noise but occasionally trips over voice clarity, leaving competitive chatterists wanting more control. Battery life impresses with marathon-worthy endurance and rapid top-ups, keeping interruptions at bay. Passive isolation wraps ears snugly but may amplify your own voice like an unwelcome sidekick during long sessions. This headset suits PS5 enthusiasts who prize immersive soundscapes and multitasking ease over ruggedness or pro-grade comms—making it a compelling choice for those ready to embrace both brilliance and quirks in their gaming arsenal.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Sound Quality
4/5
Noise Cancellation Effectiveness
3/5
Battery Life
4/5
Value
Price-to-Performance
4/5
Warranty
3/5
Included Accessories
5/5
Design
Comfort
4/5
Build Quality
2/5
Controls
4/5
Health
Hearing Protection
3/5
Material Safety
4/5
Hygiene
3/5
Safety
Battery Safety
4/5
Regulatory Compliance
4/5
Physical Hazards
4/5
Sustainability
Recyclability
2/5
Sustainable Materials Use
2/5
Packaging Sustainability
2/5
Experience Style
Customization
4/5
Multi-Device Pairing
5/5
Ease of Use
4/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Value
Design
Safety
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
5 Questions
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