Thanks to new Windows 10 and 11 software for PlayStation 5 audio devices like the Pulse Elite headset and Pulse Explore earbuds, you can now get their full range of functionality when using them on PC. This is particularly handy for those who game on both the PS5 and PC, as these first-party are some of the best PS5 headsets around and are now essentially cross-platform devices through the PlayStation Link PC driver.
While these devices worked on PC before, they didn’t have proper software support which limited their versatility. Per the official PlayStation support page, the driver will automatically install when you connect the PS Link USB adapter. The new PS Link driver isn’t as robust as apps you’ll see for new Razer headsets or SteelSeries earbuds, for example, but it’s an upgrade from previously having no PC software support. With the PS Link PC driver, you can manually adjust volume on the OS, toggle your microphone and adjust the sidetone mic feedback volume, switch EQ presets, and update the device’s firmware if needed. You can also monitor battery life through the driver.
The biggest addition here is being able to swap audio profiles through the EQ presets, so you can customize your sound experience and get more out of the headset and/or earbuds. The standard setting offers a balanced and flat sound experience, but you can adjust frequencies to boost bass and/or lower treble, for example.
If you’re considering getting new audio gear in light of this update, be sure to check out our reviews of the Pulse Elite headset and Pulse Explore earbuds, or check out our roundup of the best PS5 headsets we’ve tested. And in case you missed it, catch up on the latest State of Play stream that centered around the upcoming James Bond game 007: First Light.
