PlayStation Gold Headset: A Comparison of the 2018 and Original Models

Sony released a revised PlayStation Gold Wireless Headset in 2018, offering an alternative to the original model that had been on the market for several years. While sharing a name and core features, the two headsets have significant differences in design, comfort, and software support. This guide compares the advantages and disadvantages of each version to clarify the choice between them.

Design, Comfort, and Weight

The most significant changes in the 2018 model are related to its physical design and ergonomics. The newer headset features a sleeker, more streamlined headband and larger, softer over-ear cushions. This redesign addresses common complaints about the original model, which had a tighter fit that some users found uncomfortable during long gaming sessions. The original’s fit could cause ears to feel pressed and lead to sweating.

The revised headset provides more breathing room for the ears and was specifically designed to be more comfortable when worn with the PlayStation VR headset. The original model’s bulkier frame could interfere with the PSVR’s headband, a problem the 2018 version mitigates.

There is also a notable difference in weight. The original Gold headset weighs approximately 295.4 grams, while the new model is considerably lighter at around 230 grams. This reduction in weight further contributes to the improved comfort of the newer version, making it less noticeable over extended periods of use.

Audio Features and Custom Profiles

Both headsets deliver 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound, providing an immersive audio experience for gaming. They also both function as standard stereo headsets when connected via the included 3.5mm audio cable. Customization for both is handled through the Headset Companion App, a free application on the PlayStation Store that allows users to load custom audio profiles onto the headset.

This is where the original model held a distinct advantage at the time. The older headset was compatible with a much larger library of game-specific audio profiles tuned by the developers. In contrast, the 2018 model launched with support for a very limited selection of titles. The difference in software support was substantial.

Custom Audio Profiles for the 2018 Gold Headset:

• Final Fantasy XIV Online
• God of War
• Horizon Zero Dawn
• Metal Gear Survive
• MLB The Show 17
• MLB The Show 18
• Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End

Custom Audio Profiles for the Original Gold Headset:

• Assassin’s Creed Syndicate
• Batman: Arkham Knight
• Bloodborne
• Destiny
• Deus Ex: Mankind Divided
• Driveclub
• Far Cry 4
• Final Fantasy XIV Online
• God of War
• Horizon Zero Dawn
• inFamous Second Son
• Metal Gear Survive
• MLB The Show 16
• MLB The Show 17
• MLB The Show 18
• No Man’s Sky
• Paragon
• Ratchet and Clank
• The Last Guardian
• The Last of Us Remastered
• The Order 1886
• Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
• Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection
• Until Dawn
• Watch Dogs
• Watch Dogs 2

Beyond game-specific presets, both headsets support identical generic profiles for genres like Shooter and Fighting, modes for Action and Horror movies, and music presets for Bass Boost, Hip Hop, and Techno. Users can also create and save their own custom EQ profiles by adjusting bass, mid, and treble settings in the app.

Both models feature dual hidden noise-canceling microphones for clear voice chat.

Technical Specifications and Contents

The technical specifications for the two headsets are very similar, with only minor differences. Both use the same 570 mAh battery and operate in the same temperature range. The communication system for both is 2.4 GHz RF.

However, the original model had a slight edge in performance on paper. Its maximum communication range was rated at approximately 12 meters (39 feet), while the new model’s range is listed at around 10 meters (33 feet). Battery life also saw a small distinction: the original was rated for around 8 hours of use at medium volume, whereas the new model was rated for at least 7 hours. These differences are generally considered negligible in typical use.

Original PlayStation Gold Headset Specs:

• Weight: Approx. 295.4 g (10.4 oz)
• Dimensions: 178.3 x 191.5 x 48 mm
• Max Range: Approx. 12 m (39 ft)
• Battery Life: Around 8 hours (mid volume)

2018 PlayStation Gold Headset Specs:

• Weight: Approx. 230 g (8.6 oz)
• Dimensions: 201 x 172 x 91 mm
• Max Range: Approx. 10 m (33 ft)
• Battery Life: At least 7 hours (mid volume)

The contents of the box are nearly identical. Both packages include the wireless headset, a wireless USB adaptor, a Type-A to Micro-B USB charging cable, and a 3.5mm audio cable. The one item separating them is the travel pouch, which was included with the original Gold headset but omitted from the packaging of the 2018 model.

Available Variants

Over its lifespan, the original PlayStation Gold headset was released in several colors and special editions. Besides the standard black, it was available in a 20th Anniversary Edition, an Uncharted 4 Limited Edition, and a White version.

The newer 2018 model was available in standard black and also received a 500 Million Limited Edition variant with a translucent dark blue shell to match the limited edition PS4 Pro console. The choice ultimately came down to comfort and modern design versus broader legacy software support and a few extra perks.