Pulse Elite & Pulse 3D share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Pulse Elite rather than the Pulse 3D.
Why Do I Recommend The Pulse Elite?
- The Pulse Elite features planar magnetic drivers for exceptionally detailed sound reproduction and lower distortion across all frequencies, while the Pulse 3D uses 40 mm dynamic drivers.
- Pulse Elite comes with a retractable boom microphone with AI-enhanced noise rejection for clearer team communication during multiplayer sessions, whereas the Pulse 3D uses integrated dual microphones that capture more background noise.
- It supports Bluetooth and PlayStation Link wireless protocols for seamless multi-device connectivity and lossless low-latency audio, while the Pulse 3D relies solely on its dedicated USB wireless dongle with no Bluetooth support.
- The Pulse Elite provides up to 30 hours of battery life for extended gaming marathons without frequent charging, whereas the Pulse 3D runs about 12 hours on a full charge.
- Pulse Elite includes a fast-charge feature that delivers around 2 hours of playtime from a 10-minute charge to minimize downtime, while the Pulse 3D lacks a rapid top-up option and requires longer charging sessions.
- It has larger, more oval earcups with plush padding to reduce pressure and improve long-term comfort during extended play, whereas the Pulse 3D has smaller earcups that create ear fatigue over time.
- The Pulse Elite comes with an integrated charging hanger for convenient storage and continuous power when not in use, while the Pulse 3D does not include a dedicated charging stand.
- Pulse Elite features refined on-ear controls with a visible mute indicator for quick adjustments and clear feedback during gameplay, whereas the Pulse 3D has standard earcup buttons without visual mute confirmation.
Maybe the Pulse 3D price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Pulse Elite. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | Pulse Elite | Pulse 3D |
| Driver type | Planar magnetic drivers | Dynamic (neodymium) drivers |
| Battery life (continuous use) | ~30 hours | ~12 hours |
| Fast-charge short top-up | ~10 minutes gives ~2 hours use | Not specified / shorter |
| Microphone style | Retractable boom mic | Built-in microphones on earcup |
| Noise handling for mic | AI-enhanced noise rejection | Standard dual mic noise cancellation |
| Connectivity options | USB-C + charging hanger; Bluetooth; PlayStation Link wireless protocol | USB-C charging, dongle wireless; no Bluetooth |
| Color / finish variants | Only White / PS5 theme at launch | Multiple colorways |
| Size / ear cup arms | Longer arms, larger / more oval earcups | Shorter arms, more compact cups |
| Comfort / ear opening | Larger opening; softer padding; less pressure on ears | Smaller opening; may touch ear edges more |
| Controls placement / design | New control layout; more accessible buttons; visible indicators | On earcups; familiar layout |
| Weight / physical bulk | More bulk; heavier; larger enclosure | Lighter, less bulk |
| Passive noise isolation | Slightly better due to larger enclosure and better seal | Moderate |
| Leakage (sound escaping) | Potentially more leakage because of larger cups/seal | Lower leakage due to smaller cups |
| Portability / storage accessories | Includes charging hanger for storage/charging | No special stand/hanger included |
| Dual-device / multi-device support | Supports connecting to PS5 + another device | Focused on PS5 / single device use |
| Support for new wireless protocols | Adds PlayStation Link for lossless/low latency | Standard dongle wireless |
| Soundstage / detail level | Higher detail, richer bass, lower distortion | Good, but limitations in clarity/distortion under complex audio |
| EQ / presets & customization | More preset/custom EQ slots | Basic/no special EQ beyond PS5 menus |
| Mic control mute / indicator | Mute button on boom mic; visible mute indicator | Mute via earcup; less visual feedback |
| Price | Check Pulse Elite Price | Check Pulse 3D Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- Wireless Connectivity: Both headsets provide reliable wireless performance, eliminating the need for a physical audio cable and allowing freedom of movement during gaming sessions.
- PlayStation 5 Compatibility: Each model is fully compatible with the PlayStation 5 console, ensuring seamless pairing and optimal performance with Sony’s latest gaming system.
- PlayStation 3D Audio Support: Both headsets support Sony’s Tempest 3D AudioTech, giving players an immersive, three-dimensional soundstage that enhances directional awareness in games.
- USB-C Charging: Each headset uses a USB-C port for charging, enabling fast and convenient power replenishment with modern cables and chargers.
- Closed-Back Over-Ear Design: Both feature a closed-back, over-ear construction to isolate external noise and focus sound toward the listener for a more immersive experience.
- Integrated On-Headset Controls: Each model includes on-earcup buttons for volume adjustment, microphone mute, and audio mix control, allowing quick changes without pausing gameplay.
- Adjustable Headband: Both headsets have an adjustable headband that accommodates different head sizes and provides a secure yet comfortable fit for extended play.
- Detachable/Replaceable Ear Cushions: The ear cushions on both models can be removed and replaced, extending the life of the headset and maintaining comfort over time.
- Fold-Flat Earcups for Storage: Each headset’s earcups can rotate to lay flat, making them easier to pack or hang when not in use.
- Built-in Rechargeable Battery: Both use an internal rechargeable battery, removing the need for disposable batteries and simplifying regular charging.
- Low-Latency Wireless Dongle: Each comes with a dedicated wireless USB dongle to maintain low-latency audio, ensuring sound stays synchronized with on-screen action.
- Support for PS Remote Play: Both headsets work with PlayStation Remote Play, allowing gamers to enjoy high-quality audio while streaming games to other devices.
- Spatial/Positional Audio for Gaming: Each provides accurate spatial audio, helping players locate in-game sounds like footsteps or gunfire for a competitive advantage.
- Compatibility with PC/Mac via Dongle: Both can connect to computers using the included wireless dongle, enabling use beyond consoles for music, movies, or PC gaming.
- Party Chat & Voice Communication: Each model supports in-game voice chat with built-in microphone technology, making communication with teammates clear and convenient.
- Firmware Updatable via USB: Both headsets allow firmware updates through USB, ensuring ongoing improvements and compatibility with new PlayStation features.
- Lightweight Plastic/Metal Hybrid Frame: Each headset uses a blend of durable plastic and lightweight metal in its frame to provide strength while keeping the overall weight comfortable for long gaming sessions.
Common Features
| Feature | Pulse Elite | Pulse 3D |
| Wireless Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| PlayStation 5 Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
| PlayStation 3D Audio Support | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Closed-Back Over-Ear Design | Yes | Yes |
| Integrated On-Headset Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Headband | Yes | Yes |
| Detachable/Replaceable Ear Cushions | Yes | Yes |
| Fold-Flat Earcups for Storage | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Rechargeable Battery | Yes | Yes |
| Low-Latency Wireless Dongle | Yes | Yes |
| Support for PS Remote Play | Yes | Yes |
| Spatial/Positional Audio for Gaming | Yes | Yes |
| Compatibility with PC/Mac via Dongle | Yes | Yes |
| Party Chat & Voice Communication | Yes | Yes |
| Firmware Updatable via USB | Yes | Yes |
| Lightweight Plastic/Metal Hybrid Frame | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Check Pulse Elite Price | Check Pulse 3D Price |
FAQ
Do both headsets support PlayStation 5 3D Audio? Can I use these headsets with devices other than the PS5? What is the battery life of each headset? Do they both charge with USB-C? Is there Bluetooth connectivity? How comfortable are these headsets for long sessions? Do they include noise cancellation? Can the ear cushions be replaced? Do the headsets support in-game voice chat? Are firmware updates available? What comes in the box with each headset? Are they foldable for storage? Can I adjust the audio mix between game and chat? Which headset is better for competitive gaming? |