Best PS5 Headset Guide: Setup, Compatibility & Top Picks

The PlayStation 5 isn’t just a console—it’s an experience. But let’s face it: immersive 4K visuals mean nothing if your audio sounds like a walkie-talkie from 1998. A high-quality PS5 headset isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Whether you’re dodging bullets in Call of Duty: Warzone or exploring the haunting landscapes of Returnal, crystal-clear sound elevates every moment.

Yet, compatibility headaches lurk. Gamers often ask: can you use Xbox headset on PS5? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. Some work with tweaks; others refuse to cooperate. This guide dives deep into compatibility hacks, setup tricks, and top-tier headset recommendations—because your ears deserve better.

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PS5 Headset Compatibility: Navigating the Maze

Sony’s PS5 is pickier about audio gear than a sommelier with wine. Not all headsets are created equal here. Understanding the tech specs saves you from buyer’s remorse.

Wired Headsets: The Plug-and-Play (Mostly) Option

Most wired headsets with a 3.5mm jack will function when connected to the DualSense controller. But there’s a caveat:

• Basic models (like the HyperX Cloud Stinger) work flawlessly.
• High-end wired headsets (e.g., Astro A40 TR) may require a USB or optical connection. Problem? The PS5 axed the optical port. Solution? Use a HDMI audio extractor—a clunky but effective workaround.

Pro Tip: If your headset has inline controls, test them. Volume adjustments might not register, leaving you reliant on PS5 settings.

Wireless Headsets: The Compatibility Minefield

Wireless freedom comes with strings attached. The PS5 supports:

• USB Dongle Headsets: Think Sony’s Pulse 3D or SteelSeries Arctis 7P+. Plug in the dongle, and you’re golden.
• Bluetooth Headsets: Only Sony-branded models or those with USB adapters (like the Audeze Penrose) pair natively. Regular AirPods? Forget it.
• Legacy PS4 Headsets: Most work, but always verify. The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2, for instance, transitions smoothly.

Xbox Wireless Headsets (e.g., the official Xbox Wireless Headset) typically won’t connect. Their proprietary tech clashes with Sony’s ecosystem. Frustrating? Absolutely.

Source: Reddit Discussion

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Can You Use Xbox Headset on PS5? The Truth Unveiled

Gamers love repurposing gear. If you own an Xbox headset, you might wonder: can it pull double duty on PS5? Here’s the unfiltered breakdown.

Wired Xbox Headsets: A Tentative Yes

Models like the Xbox Stereo Headset (with 3.5mm jacks) will physically connect to the DualSense. But:

• Mic functionality is hit-or-miss. Some users report muffled or inactive mics.
• Advanced features (e.g., Dolby Atmos) often vanish. You’re left with stereo sound—serviceable but uninspiring.

Real-World Example: The Razer Kaira Pro for Xbox works wired on PS5 but loses its haptic feedback—a bummer for Astro’s Playroom fans.

Wireless Xbox Headsets: The Ugly Reality

Microsoft’s wireless protocol is a walled garden. Headsets like the Xbox Wireless Headset won’t pair directly with PS5. However, loopholes exist:

• Bluetooth Mode: Some dual-mode headsets (e.g., SteelSeries Arctis 9X) can connect via Bluetooth. Latency? Higher than a kite.
• USB Dongles: If the headset includes a USB-C/A dongle (like the LucidSound LS35X), try plugging it in. Success isn’t guaranteed.

Verbatim from a Reddit thread: “My Arctis 9X connects to PS5 via Bluetooth, but the mic sounds like I’m underwater. Not ideal for squad chats.”

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How to Connect Xbox Headset to PS5: Step-by-Step Workarounds

Determined to make your Xbox headset work? Here’s your battle plan.

Method 1: The 3.5mm Lifeline

• Plug the headset into the DualSense’s 3.5mm port.
• Navigate to Settings > Sound > Audio Output. Select “Controller Headphones.”
• Tweak mic settings under Settings > Sound > Microphone.

Drawbacks:

• Cables = tripping hazards.
• No surround sound or EQ customization.

Method 2: Bluetooth or USB—The Hail Mary

For Bluetooth-Compatible Headsets:

• Enable pairing mode on your headset.
• Go to Settings > Accessories > Bluetooth Accessories on PS5.
• Select your headset. If it fails, blame Sony’s restrictive Bluetooth policies.

For USB Dongles:

• Insert the dongle into a PS5 USB port.
• Wait for the console to recognize it (or not).

Pro Tip: The Creative BT-W3 USB adapter bypasses PS5’s Bluetooth block for some headsets.

Method 3: Adapters—The Last Resort

• Bluetooth Transmitters: Devices like the Avantree DG80 plug into the PS5’s USB port, transmitting audio to your headset. Lag can be an issue.
• HDMI Audio Extractors: Splits audio from HDMI, routing it to optical or 3.5mm. Clunky but functional.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: A $20 adapter might save your $150 headset—or just delay the inevitable upgrade.

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Best PS5 Headsets: No Compromises, Just Great Audio

If compatibility gymnastics exhaust you, these PS5 headsets deliver seamless performance.

1. Sony Pulse 3D Wireless Headset

• Why It’s Great: Optimized for PS5’s Tempest 3D AudioTech. Lightweight with intuitive controls.
• Downsides: Ear cushions lack breathability during marathon sessions.
• Perfect For: Gamers who want a fuss-free, first-party solution.

2. SteelSeries Arctis 7P+

• Why It’s Great: 30-hour battery, USB-C charging, and a retractable mic.
• Downsides: Pricier than the Pulse 3D.
• Perfect For: Travelers who hate dead batteries mid-flight.

3. Astro A50 (4th Gen) + Base Station

• Why It’s Great: Studio-grade sound with customizable EQ presets. The dock charges and looks cool.
• Downsides: Costs $300. Enough said.
• Perfect For: Streamers who need pro-tier audio for audiences.

4. HyperX Cloud II Wireless

• Why It’s Great: Legendary comfort, detachable mic, and 53mm drivers for rich bass.
• Downsides: No 3D audio—strictly stereo.
• Perfect For: PC/PS5 hybrids who value versatility.

5. Razer BlackShark V2 Pro

• Why It’s Great: THX Spatial Audio mimics surround sound. The mic filters background noise like a champ.
• Downsides: RGB lighting is pointless on PS5 (but hey, flair counts).
• Perfect For: Competitive players who need every audio cue to clutch victories.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What headsets are compatible with the PS5?
The PS5 is compatible with most wired USB or 3.5mm headsets, as well as wireless headsets that use a USB dongle or Bluetooth (with a supported adapter). Sony’s official Pulse 3D headset is optimized for the console.

2. How do I set up a headset with my PS5?
For wired headsets, plug them into the controller’s 3.5mm jack or a USB port. For wireless headsets, insert the USB dongle into the PS5 and follow the on-screen prompts. Adjust audio settings in the console’s Sound menu.

3. What features should I look for in a PS5 headset?
Prioritize 3D audio support, noise cancellation, comfort, and a built-in microphone. Wireless headsets with long battery life and low latency are also ideal for gaming.

4. Can you recommend the best PS5 headsets?
Top recommendations include the Sony Pulse 3D, SteelSeries Arctis 7P, Astro A50, and the HyperX Cloud II for budget-friendly options. Choose based on your budget and preferred features.

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Wrapping Up: Your Ears, Your Rules

The PS5 headset landscape is a mix of plug-and-play ease and frustrating limitations. If you’re wrestling with can you use Xbox headset on PS5, know this: it’s possible, but rarely perfect. Sometimes, investing in a native headset saves time and sanity.

And if you’re still using the free earbuds from your last flight? Upgrade. Your Elden Ring boss battles will thank you.

Got a headset hack we missed? Share it below—unless it involves duct tape. We’re not that desperate. 😉

Don’t Gamble on Compatibility—Grab a Headset That Just Works with PS5.