PlayStation Pulse Explore & PlayStation Pulse Elite 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 PlayStation Pulse Explore rather than the PlayStation Pulse Elite.
Why Do I Recommend The PlayStation Pulse Explore?
- The PlayStation Pulse Explore features a lightweight true-wireless earbud design for maximum portability and comfort during travel or outdoor use, while the PlayStation Pulse Elite has a bulkier over-ear headset build.
- PlayStation Pulse Explore includes integrated dual beamforming microphones for clear voice pickup without an external boom, whereas the PlayStation Pulse Elite uses a retractable boom mic.
- It supports quick charging through the case to provide several hours of playback after a short top-up, while the PlayStation Pulse Elite requires a direct USB-C charge.
- The PlayStation Pulse Explore includes a compact USB-C charging case for convenient pocketable power on the go, whereas the PlayStation Pulse Elite relies on a larger magnetic charging hanger.
- PlayStation Pulse Explore supports simultaneous PlayStation Link and Bluetooth connections for seamless switching between a console and a smartphone during commutes, while the PlayStation Pulse Elite supports PlayStation Link and Bluetooth but less practical to carry.
- It comes with interchangeable silicone ear tips for a customizable in-ear seal to improve passive noise isolation in noisy environments, whereas the PlayStation Pulse Elite uses fixed over-ear cushions.
- PlayStation Pulse Explore features a total weight of roughly 14 grams for all-day wear without fatigue, while the PlayStation Pulse Elite weighs about 348 grams.
Maybe the PlayStation Pulse Elite price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the PlayStation Pulse Explore. 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 | PlayStation Pulse Explore | PlayStation Pulse Elite |
| Form factor | True wireless in-ear earbuds | Over-ear gaming headset with headband |
| Charging method | USB-C charging case | USB-C with magnetic charging hanger |
| Microphone type | Dual integrated beamforming mics | Retractable boom mic |
| Ear coupling | In-ear silicone tips | Over-ear sealed cups |
| Weight | Around 14 g total without case | Around 348 g |
| Portability | Ultra-compact with pocketable case | Bulky, less pocket-friendly |
| Noise isolation | In-ear passive isolation only | Passive over-ear sealing |
| On-device controls | Small touch/physical controls on each bud | Larger physical buttons on earcups |
| Simultaneous connections | PlayStation Link + Bluetooth dual connection | PlayStation Link + Bluetooth |
| Immersion | More intimate in-ear soundstage | Wider soundstage and deeper bass |
| Comfort style | Lightweight buds with interchangeable tips | Cushioned ear pads for long sessions |
| Storage | Fits inside included charging case | Needs hanger or stand |
| Use while charging | Cannot play while charging in case | Can play while wired charging |
| Fit adjustment | Multiple ear tip sizes only | Sliding headband and rotating cups |
| Price | Check Pulse Explore Price | Check Pulse Elite Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- Planar Magnetic Drivers: Both the Pulse Explore and Pulse Elite use planar magnetic driver technology, delivering highly detailed sound with fast transient response. This ensures gamers experience crisp highs and deep lows for an immersive audio environment.
- PlayStation Link Wireless: Each model connects through Sony’s low-latency PlayStation Link wireless system. This provides a stable, lossless connection to the PS5 or PC for synchronized audio during fast-paced gaming.
- Bluetooth 5.3: Both include Bluetooth 5.3, allowing seamless pairing with smartphones, tablets, or laptops. This ensures efficient energy use and a strong, interference-free connection for everyday listening.
- Dual Device Connection (Link + Bluetooth): Each headset can maintain a simultaneous PlayStation Link and Bluetooth connection. This enables users to game on the PS5 while staying connected to a phone for calls or music.
- Low-Latency Gaming Audio: Both are engineered for minimal audio delay, which is critical in competitive gaming where timing and directional cues can affect performance.
- Tempest 3D AudioTech Support: Each product supports Sony’s Tempest 3D AudioTech, creating an expansive three-dimensional soundscape. Gamers can accurately perceive in-game sounds coming from all directions.
- USB-C Charging: Both charge via USB-C, providing a universal and fast-charging interface that simplifies power management across multiple devices.
- On-device Volume Control: Each includes physical volume control directly on the headset or earbuds. This lets users quickly adjust audio levels without navigating on-screen menus.
- Integrated Rechargeable Battery: Both feature built-in rechargeable batteries, eliminating the need for disposable batteries and ensuring consistent performance across gaming sessions.
- Built-in Microphones with AI Noise Reduction: Each model uses AI-enhanced microphones to reduce background noise, delivering clear voice chat for multiplayer gaming or conference calls.
- Compatible with PS5, PC, and Mac: Both devices work natively with PS5 consoles and are also compatible with PCs and Macs, allowing gamers to use them across multiple platforms.
- Companion PlayStation App Support: Each product can be customized through the PlayStation app, giving users control over EQ settings, firmware updates, and connection management.
- High-Resolution Audio Playback: Both support high-resolution audio formats for a rich, lifelike sound that enhances music and cinematic content beyond standard audio quality.
- Firmware Update via App: Each can receive over-the-air firmware updates through the companion app, ensuring access to new features and performance improvements over time.
- Detachable/Replaceable Ear Cushions or Tips: Both models allow users to replace ear tips or cushions to maintain hygiene and ensure a comfortable fit for extended listening.
- Same Color Theme (PlayStation White/Black): Each carries the signature PlayStation white-and-black aesthetic, providing a cohesive look that matches the PS5 and other official accessories.
- Quick Charge Capability: Both include a quick-charge feature that provides hours of playback with just a short charging session, ideal for gamers who need fast top-ups between sessions.
Common Features
| Feature | PlayStation Pulse Explore | Pulse Elite |
| Planar Magnetic Drivers | Yes | Yes |
| PlayStation Link Wireless | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth 5.3 | Yes | Yes |
| Dual Device Connection (Link + Bluetooth) | Yes | Yes |
| Low-Latency Gaming Audio | Yes | Yes |
| Tempest 3D AudioTech Support | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C Charging | Yes | Yes |
| On-device Volume Control | Yes | Yes |
| Integrated Rechargeable Battery | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Microphones with AI Noise Reduction | Yes | Yes |
| Compatible with PS5, PC, and Mac | Yes | Yes |
| Companion PlayStation App Support | Yes | Yes |
| High-Resolution Audio Playback | Yes | Yes |
| Firmware Update via App | Yes | Yes |
| Detachable/Replaceable Ear Cushions or Tips | Yes | Yes |
| Same Color Theme (PlayStation White/Black) | Yes | Yes |
| Quick Charge Capability | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Check Pulse Explore Price | Check Pulse Elite Price |
FAQ
What type of drivers do both the PlayStation Pulse Explore and Pulse Elite use? Do the Pulse Explore and Pulse Elite support PlayStation Link wireless technology? Can these headsets also connect to devices via Bluetooth? Is simultaneous dual-device connectivity available? Are these compatible with Tempest 3D AudioTech on the PS5? How long does the battery last on each model? What charging method do these headsets use? Do both models have quick-charge capability? Are there built-in microphones on both devices? Can you customize audio settings through a companion app? Are firmware updates supported for both headsets? Do they work with platforms other than the PS5? Do they share the same color scheme? Can users replace ear cushions or tips? Is there any difference in microphone style between the two? |