Gaming headsets have evolved past simple “good enough” audio — and two standout options in 2025 are the Sony PlayStation Pulse Elite and the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless.
Though both promise immersive sound and wireless convenience, they take different approaches under the hood: the Pulse Elite uses planar magnetic drivers while the MMX 150 relies on dynamic drivers.
Here’s how they compare and what type of gamer each headset suits best.
Planar vs Dynamic Drivers: What’s the Difference?
Planar magnetic drivers, like those in the Pulse Elite, use a thin diaphragm suspended between magnets. This design often delivers wider soundstages and more detailed, nuanced audio, which makes environments feel expansive and immersive — especially useful in cinematic, story‑driven games.
By contrast, dynamic drivers — found in the MMX 150 Wireless — are the traditional choice for headphones and excel at efficient bass response, strong midrange clarity, and positional cues, making them ideal for competitive play where footsteps and gunfire need to be crisp and clear.
Comfort, Design, and Usability
- Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless: A lightweight, closed‑back headset with plush memory‑foam ear pads and a more understated, studio‑style look, the MMX 150 stays comfortable for long gaming sessions without heavy clamping force.
- Sony PlayStation Pulse Elite: Larger and slightly heavier due to its planar driver setup, the Pulse Elite has a console‑centric design with a futuristic aesthetic and built‑in PlayStation Link wireless integration. It’s optimized for PlayStation systems, though it also supports Bluetooth.
Connectivity and Features
The MMX 150 Wireless offers Bluetooth plus a low‑latency USB‑C dongle, making it easy to switch between PC, console, and mobile gaming. Its detachable microphone adds versatility for casual listening outside gaming.
The Pulse Elite uses Sony’s proprietary PlayStation Link wireless tech for ultra‑low latency on PS5 and PlayStation Portal, while also supporting Bluetooth. Its retractable mic includes AI‑based noise suppression, though some find the tonality slightly compressed compared to the MMX’s mic.
Sound and Battery Life
Audio character:
- MMX 150 Wireless: Offers a precise, focused soundstage that excels in competitive gaming and positional accuracy. Bass is controlled and midrange is clear.
- Pulse Elite: Provides a wider, more enveloping soundstage that enhances immersion — ideal for narrative gaming — with balanced low end and smoother treble.
Battery life:
- MMX 150 Wireless: Up to 50 hours on a full charge, a major advantage for marathon sessions.
- Pulse Elite: Around 30 hours, still respectable but less than the Beyerdynamic.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless if you want all‑around versatility, longer battery life, and a balanced sound signature that works for gaming and everyday audio.
Choose the Sony PlayStation Pulse Elite if you’re deep in the PlayStation ecosystem and crave immersive, wide sound with low latency tailored to your console.
Both headsets are strong contenders in the mid‑range gaming headset market of 2025, but your ideal pick depends on your gaming priorities — competitive precision vs immersive sonic depth.
