Audio is one of the most interesting new features of the PlayStation 5. Specifically, the system’s Tempest 3D audio, which promises unparalleled sound from all directions.
It makes sense to want to have the best sound equipment to take advantage of this new technology. The 3D audio doesn’t originate from speakers, meaning that it’s readily available on any audio system, but the better the system, the better the sound quality.
So what headphones are best on the PS5? Well that depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want to chat with friends in multiplayer games like Call of Duty or lose yourself in the immersive sounds of single-player titles such as Resident Evil Village? Here are some of the best headphones for PS5 based on your budget and needs.
What is 3D Audio and how does it work?
The good news is that people can experience PS5’s 3D Audio with many of the headphones they already own. It’s proprietary technology that’s meant to immerse players into the game. Think about it the same way VR works to give players 360 degree experiences.
You also don’t need to do anything specific to experience 3D audio. Simply plug your preferred PlayStation 5 headset into the console through a USB port or directly into the DualSense controller.
Let’s take a look at some options.
The Official headphones
The PULSE 3D Wireless Headset is Sony’s “official” headset for the console, meaning it’s fine-tuned to get the most out of the system’s audio.
They’re noise cancelling, rechargeable, and visually complement the system. Sony said the matching earpads and headband strap are built for comfort. The battery lasts about 12 hours.
While the PULSE 3D can wirelessly connect to both the PS4 and PS5, they also come with an audio cable for PS VR and mobile devices.
The headphones feature two built in microphones, and won’t break the bank with a fairly approachable price tag of $99.99.
The Budget Pick
Looking for a pair of headphones that cost about as much as a nightly Taco Bell order? Look no further than the K8 Gaming Headset, which retails at the price of $19.99.
There are a few nifty features for such a low price tag.
There’s a noise cancelling microphone The sound quality lies comfortably in the middle range, meaning you’re not going to be blown away but it’s passable as an entry level pair of headphones. They’re not wireless. The cable is braided and comes in at an almost featherlight 12 oz.
For more serious players
If you’re in the market for a quality headset that can switch from console to PC, check out the Logitech Pro X Gaming Headset with Blue Voice.
This headset was designed for versatility. It comes with a few special options like a detachable microphone and a choice between either leatherette or velour earpads.
It’s simple in design and comes with its own carrying case, Y splitter for separate mic and headphone ports, an external sound card, and incline controls on one of its two cables.
It’s extremely affordable at $99, recently discounted from $129.
The Fancy Pair
Ready to spend $300 on a high-end pair of headphones with all of the bells and whistles? Then the Astro Gaming A50 Wireless Headset and Base Station is for you.
It even has its own software for tweaking audio settings, which can be saved for use with the PS5. The earcups spin and twist, while the microphone flips up when not in use. Batteries last 15 hours on a charge and the sound quality is predictably high.
The high price tag also gives players a slew of customizable options. To use the best features with the PS5, you’ll need to buy an additional adapter for $40, but once you hear it everything will make sense.
Here’s a video of how that works:
Take your game to the next level alongside your audio experience.