as an affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases
Pulse 3D alternative

10 Pulse 3D Alternatives for the PS5 – 2024

The Pulse 3D is one of the first accessories consumers turn to buy along with their new PS5 console.

However, although it markets at $100, it’s not exactly a premium headset. The build quality is lacking, the fit is nonadjustable and it starts to get uncomfortable with just a few hours of use.

Fortunately, as Sony’s 3D audio engine “Tempest” is built into the PS5 console itself (and not the headset), you are free to go for a different brand.

In this post, we will cover several of the best Pulse 3D alternatives that will give you a much greater gaming experience.


What is the best Pulse 3D alternative?

10. HyperX Cloud Stinger Core

Connection: Wireless
Battery: 17 hours
Compatibility: PC and PS5

The Stinger Core is a lightweight and durable entry-level headset. Designed specifically for PlayStation systems, it offers fantastic compatibility, especially with the new PS5. Thanks to the wireless 2.4 GHz connection, pairing the device to your next-gen console couldn’t be any simpler.

For materials, the lightweight construction aims to keep you playing for longer. At just 242 grams, the Stinger Core uses mostly plastic with adjustable steel sliders inside the headband. Besides this, the headband and ear cups feature a soft padded foam that feels great against the side of your head.

The stereo sound is crisp, clear, and immersive. As a result, this headset will give you no problems judging where opponents are in the game. To further fine-tune your sounds during the live-action, onboard audio controls are conveniently located on the side of the ear cups.

The mic quality is also pretty good to give you a clear line of communication with your squadmates. We particularly like that the mic is “flip to mute” so there’s never any fumbling around for a button. Keep in mind that although you can rotate it upward, it’s not collapsible or removable.

All in all, it’s a superb Pulse 3D alternative on a budget.


9. PlayStation Gold Headset

Connection: Bluetooth
Battery: 8 hours
Compatibility: PC and PS5

The Gold Wireless Headset is an affordable, cable-free way to get game audio and voice chat through your Sony PlayStation console. Although originally released for the PS4, it’s fully compatible with the new PS5 and uses the same Bluetooth dongle that connects to the USB port.

In terms of comfort, the Gold is quite lightweight are pretty comfortable once you get it properly positioned on your head. The fit is not too tight and the earmuffs have lots of padding for extended periods. They adjust by simply sliding the earpieces up or down on the headband.

Thanks to the 40mm drivers in each ear cup, the sound quality is also particularly impressive. You’ll be able to hear earth-shaking explosions and the rumble of oncoming vehicles with full immersion. Moreover, the 7.1 surround sound works fantastic with Sony’s new game-changing 3D audio.

Unlike many other headsets on the list, the Gold features a hidden noise-canceling microphone that is built inside the frame. The lack of an external mic does reduce the quality somewhat but it’s fine if you’re in a quiet environment. Easy-access volume controls are located on the side of the ear-muff.

At around the same price as the Pulse 3D, it’s another great alternative.


8. SteelSeries Arctis 5 

Connection: Wired
Battery: –
Compatibility: PC and PS5

Engineered with gamers in mind, this headset takes your PS5 experience to the next level. With the Arctis 5, you will be able to independently control the game and chat audio while running them side-by-side. That’s just one of the major USPs you’ll get with this headset when compared to the other options.

The audio of the Arctis 5 is excellent, perfectly matched to the 3D sound capabilities of your new PlayStation. All games that support 3D sound can create a virtual surround sound stage through this headset. Games not compatible with 3D sound can leverage DTS surround sound, too.

As far as the microphone is concerned, you’re looking at a bidirectional microphone with built-in noise cancellation technology. This makes your VoIP experience a whole lot clearer and a lot more consistent. As a result, your teammates will be able to hear exactly what you are saying.

Besides this, the overall design and comfort of this headset is top-notch. It isn’t heavy, it isn’t uncomfortable, and it doesn’t get overheated the way other headsets might. On the downside, it isn’t wireless, but the extra-long 3.5m cable will allow you to sit pretty much anywhere in front of your TV.


7. Corsair VOID RGB Elite

Connection: Wireless
Battery: 16 hours
Compatibility: PC and PS5

The VOID RGB Elite is a stylish gaming headset with 7.1 surround sound. It excels in several different areas including comfort, sound quality, and battery life. This particular model also includes a USB adapter so you can wirelessly connect it to your PS5 via the low-latency 2 4GHz connection.

Aesthetically, one of the first things you will notice about the Elite is the innovative ear-cup design. On the side of the cups, you will find a selection of multi-function buttons. These allow you to easily make adjustments to your volume settings without getting distracted from the game.

For materials, the ear-cups are made out of soft, breathable fabric. For this reason, they are very comfortable to wear during long gaming sessions. However, it’s worth noting that the fit is quite loose, which might be a problem for people with larger heads as they’re not very adjustable in the headband.

Unlike the Pulse 3D, this similarly priced alternative features a crystal clear omnidirectional mic that is noticeably better. The microphone isn’t detachable but you can flip it upward if it’s getting in the way. Another big advantage over the Pulse 3D is the VOIDs excellent 16-hour battery life.


6. Sony PlayStation Platinum

Connection: Bluetooth
Battery: 12 hours
Compatibility: PC and PS5

The Sony Platinum is the premium version of the PlayStation Gold headset. One noticeable difference between the two models is the build quality, with the Platinum having a steel headband that can hold up much better in the long run.

Besides this, the Platinum does make some further improvements. The battery life gives you an extra four hours to bring you up to twelve hours per charge, and the mic quality is substantially better. Instead of having a single mic, the platinum utilizes dual-mics for a cleaner and crisper sound.

In terms of audio, the Sony Platinum can support 3D Audio as well as 7.1 virtual surround sound. Being fine-tuned for 3D audio makes them ideal for experiencing the PS5’s new 3D audio engine – Tempest, which works to stimulate sounds from all directions.

For exclusive audio modes that let you enhance certain aspects of the game, it’s also possible to download the companion app from PlayStation Store. The app lets you download various sound packs made by the developers, as well as tweak the equalizer so you can find the best game presets.

All in all, the Sony Platinum is a very similar alternative to the Pulse 3D. The two headsets share many similarities; however, the award for build quality unquestionably goes to the Platinum.


5. SteelSeries Arctis 1

Connection: Wireless
Battery: 20 hours
Compatibility: PC and PS5

Another excellent alternative to the Pulse 3D. The Arctis 1 is sure to take your PlayStation 5 experience to the next level thanks to its audio engineering. Featuring some of the best balanced and realistic game audio in the headset world, you will gain a huge advantage when wearing this headset.

The individual speakers built into the Arctis 1 are independently tuned. That means you will be able to pick up on sound cues from your games more accurately, especially using the DTS surround sound tech built-in. 3D sound is available on this headset, with no firmware update required.

The microphone on this headset is a ClearCast bidirectional model, recognized throughout the industry as one of the best gaming mics available. The noise cancellation technology guarantees crystal clear audio clarity. The flexible microphone can be repositioned for improved audio pickup, too.

As far as comfort is concerned, the fit and finish here is exceptional. A steel-reinforced headband and comfort foam technology conforms this headset to your skull. It isn’t heavy, it isn’t uncomfortable, and it won’t get super hot, either. In short, this is a great PS5 headset.


4. Razer BlackShark V2 Pro

Connection: Wireless
Battery: 24 hours
Compatibility: PC and PS5

The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is an esports grade headset with a wireless 2.4GHz connection. At just 320g, the lightweight design includes a pair of Triforce Titanium 50mm drivers, ultra-soft memory foam ear cushions, and a detachable HyperClear Cardioid mic.

Another standout feature is the V2 Pro’s THX 7.1 surround sound. However, although this is compatible with the 3D Audio built into the PlayStation 5, it’s only possible to enable the “THX Spatial Audio” on your PC via the synapse app.

Nevertheless, you will still appreciate this quality headset. The build quality is high and the fit is especially nice. Unlike other headsets that might apply too much pressure, they are wide enough that they won’t squeeze uncomfortably on your head and are easily adjustable.

You’ll also like that the mic works great and is very clear. Tuned to have a more focused voice pickup area, it has no problems picking up voice consistently. Build-wise, sometimes removable mics are cheap, but this boom mic is noticeably sturdy and flexible.

As this is a wireless headset, it comes with a USB dongle that makes it “plug and play”. Moreover, the battery life is excellent to give you an impressive 24 hours of game time at about 65% volume.


3. Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX

Connection: Wireless
Battery: 40 hours
Compatibility: All

The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX is the successor to the best-selling Stealth 600 Gen 2 headset. Featuring a flip to mute mic, a 40-hour battery life, and newly integrated Bluetooth customization (from within the native audio-hub app), it certainly ticks a lot of boxes.

Compared to the previous model, the build quality is even more robust. To ensure long-term durability, it utilizes a new reinforced metal headband along with strengthened hinges. As a result, you won’t ever have to worry about mishandling this headset as you might with other accessories.

Besides this, Turtle Beach have re-shaped their gel-infused memory foam ear cushions to provide an upgrade in comfort. As you can see, these are extremely large and have an abundance of padding. Due to being open-back, they slot right over your ears without any interference from the driver.

The drivers themselves are the same 50mm Nano-clear speakers found on the previous model. The game audio sounds just as fabulous with plenty of volume. While playing Halo Infinite, we had no problems hearing footsteps and telling which direction enemies are coming from with this headset.

Finally, we especially like the addition of Bluetooth that provides effortless customization. After downloading the native app, it’s easy to adjust the EQ settings at a touch of a button. Here you can customize some of the controls on the headset itself such as well as the multifunction dial!


2. Massdrop x Sennheiser PC38X

Connection: Wired
Battery: –
Compatibility: PC and PS5

The Sennheiser PC38X is the upgraded version of the highly-rated PC37X. Revamped in both audio quality and comfort, it comes with new pair of high-fidelity drivers, as well as a “split” headband design to keep you staying cooler for longer.

Sennheisers are renowned for their exceptional sound quality and the PC38X does not disappoint. The high realism audio makes it easier to distinguish enemies from left to right. Regardless of your position on the battlefield, you’re sure to sense your surroundings more clearly.

Comfort is a top priority for any gaming headset and just another area where the PC38X excels. The over-ear, velvet ear pads offer a spacious fit while staying cool and sweat-free. Once you’ve worn them all day long, you might even forget they’re on your head!

The PC38X’s noise-canceling microphone is a further defining feature of this headset. Designed for high-volume, low-distance recording, the sound is both natural and smooth. There’s no need for any external software to get you sounding like a podcaster.

It doesn’t matter which platform you use, as this Pulse 3D alternative is compatible with almost every game system. To achieve this, it includes two cables. The first is a 3.5-millimeter TRRS cable for mobile devices and consoles (no adapter required) and the second is a split cable for PCs.

Overall, if you’re willing to spend a little bit more, the PC38X is an fantastic choice.


1. SteelSeries Arctis 7p

Connection: Wireless
Battery: 24 hours
Compatibility: PC and PS5

The Arctis 7p wireless headset is designed specifically for the PlayStation 5. It comes in two stylish colors, black and white, and uses a proven 2.4GHz connection for ultra-low latency gaming. Other top features include 24 hours of battery life and a retractable Discord-certified mic.

Constructed from a lightweight and durable reinforced steel, the overall build quality of this headset is noticeably superb. It’s not lacking in comfort either, as the steel headband cleverly combines with an elastic, fully adjustable, ski goggle strap that fits universally over your head.

Besides this, the memory foam, open-ear cups are extremely comfortable. To allow for a sufficient amount of airflow, a mesh-like layer of cloth covers the padding. What’s great is that the ear cushions are entirely removable so you can wash them out when needed.

In terms of audio, the Arctis 7p goes unmatched for a pair of gaming headphones at this price range. The Neodymium drivers emphasize subtle sounds to give you an advantage in the game. Of course, you will be glad to know that the 7p is fully compatible with PS5’s new Tempest 3D Audio.

Nowadays, it’s rare for headsets to have a retractable mic; however, this is yet another impressive feature. The mic doesn’t feel flimsy or cheap and the sound is loud and clear. When you combine that with the fact that you can completely hide it out of the way – you know you’re on to a winner.

Currently, the Arctis 7p is the best all-round headset for the PS5.



We hope you enjoyed this post on the best Pulse 3D alternative.

Click here for the 10 best Projectors for the PS5!

Click here for the best Capture Card for the PS5!








Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *