HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset Review: The Headphone-Free Future of Immersive Audio?

There’s a ritual every gamer knows. You settle into your chair, grab your controller, and then comes the final piece of the uniform: the gaming headset. For hours, it clamps down, creating a sealed-off world of immersive sound. But with it comes the inevitable discomfort—the pressure on your ears, the heat build-up, and the dreaded “headset hair” that leaves a permanent indent for the rest of the day. For years, I accepted this as the necessary trade-off for high-quality, private gaming audio. The alternative was using TV speakers, sacrificing positional audio accuracy and risking waking up the entire house during a late-night session. I was caught between comfort and immersion, a compromise that always left me feeling a little frustrated. That’s the exact problem the HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset promises to solve—an entirely new approach to personal gaming audio that drapes sound around your shoulders instead of clamping it to your head.

What to Consider Before Buying a Gaming Audio Solution

A gaming audio device is more than just a pair of speakers; it’s a key solution for competitive advantage and deep narrative immersion. In fast-paced shooters, it’s the tool that lets you hear an enemy’s footsteps before you see them. In sprawling open-world RPGs, it’s what transforms a digital landscape into a living, breathing world, with the whisper of the wind and the distant roar of a monster creating a palpable atmosphere. The primary benefit is creating a personal sound bubble that delivers detailed, directional audio without disturbing others, while also enabling clear communication with teammates. It’s an essential piece of hardware that can genuinely elevate your entire gaming experience.

The ideal customer for a product like a neckset is someone who prioritizes comfort during long gaming sessions, dislikes the pressure and heat of traditional over-ear headphones, or wants to remain aware of their immediate surroundings (like a parent listening for a child). It’s perfect for the dedicated single-player enthusiast who craves immersion without isolation. However, it might not be suitable for those who play in extremely noisy environments, as its open-air design doesn’t block external sound. It’s also not the best fit for highly competitive esports players who demand absolute sound isolation and the most precise microphone positioning offered by a traditional boom mic. For those users, a high-quality closed-back headset would be a more practical alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Ergonomics & Comfort: For any wearable audio device, comfort is king. With traditional headsets, you look at clamping force, earcup material, and weight. With a neckset, the focus shifts to how the weight is distributed on your shoulders, the flexibility of the band, and whether it causes any friction or pressure points on your collarbones during extended use. The HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset weighs in at 544g, so considering how that weight feels over a three-hour gaming marathon is paramount.
• Audio Performance & Features: Don’t just look for “surround sound.” Dig into the specifics. How is the virtual surround sound implemented? Is it tuned for specific platforms, like the PS5’s Tempest 3D AudioTech? Look for specialized audio modes, like FPS modes that enhance subtle sounds or Bass Boost modes for cinematic experiences. The quality of the drivers and their ability to produce a clear, balanced soundscape across lows, mids, and highs is the foundation of good audio.
• Microphone & Communication: A gaming headset is also a communication tool. How is the microphone implemented? Is it a traditional boom mic or an integrated one? Critically, look for features like echo cancellation. A neckset’s speakers are close to its microphone, creating a high potential for feedback that your teammates will hear. An effective echo cancellation system is non-negotiable for a smooth multiplayer experience.
• Connectivity & Power: How does the device connect to your console? Is it fully wireless, or does it wire into the controller? Both have pros and cons. A wired connection to the controller eliminates latency but still requires a cable. A fully wireless connection offers more freedom but introduces potential interference and a separate battery to manage. The HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset uses a hybrid approach—wired to the controller but requiring its own internal battery for power, which is an important factor to consider in your setup.

Keeping these factors in mind, the HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset stands out in several areas, particularly its unique approach to ergonomics and PS5-centric audio tuning. You can explore its detailed specifications and features here to see how it aligns with your needs.

While the HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset is an excellent choice for a specific type of gamer, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing a New Audio Paradigm

Unboxing the HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset feels different from the start. The box itself is substantial, hinting at the unique form factor within. Inside, the neckset is nestled securely, its distinctive U-shape immediately setting it apart from any traditional headset. The build quality felt solid in our hands; the plastics are robust, and the flexible central band connecting the two shoulder pads feels durable enough to withstand daily use. It carries a surprising heft at just over 500g, but it’s a density that suggests quality components rather than cheap materials. The design aesthetic is clearly inspired by the PlayStation 5, with a clean, futuristic look that complements the console and DualSense controller perfectly.

There’s minimal setup required. The box contains the neckset, a USB-C cable for charging, and a 3.5mm audio cable to connect to the DualSense controller. After a quick initial charge, it was as simple as plugging one end into the neckset and the other into the controller. Powering it on, the controls are intuitively placed on the inner edge of the band—power, volume, mic mute, and a button to cycle through the sound modes. It’s an elegant, almost futuristic piece of kit that feels less like a gaming peripheral and more like a piece of next-gen technology.

Deep Dive: Living and Breathing the Game

A unique design is one thing, but performance is everything. We put the HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset through dozens of hours of rigorous testing across a wide spectrum of genres on the PlayStation 5. From the chaotic battlefields of multiplayer shooters to the atmospheric alien worlds of single-player epics, we analyzed every facet of its performance to see if this unconventional design could truly replace the traditional gaming headset.

Ergonomics and Long-Session Comfort

This is where the HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset makes its most compelling argument. The moment we placed it on our shoulders, the primary benefit was immediately clear: absolute freedom from head and ear pressure. The device rests comfortably on the trapezius muscles, with its weight distributed evenly. During our tests, which included a five-hour session in *Elden Ring*, we experienced none of the typical fatigue points associated with headsets. There was no clamping force on the skull, no sweaty earcups, and no need to constantly readjust for comfort. The soft padding on the underside helps it stay in place, and we found it surprisingly stable, even when leaning forward or shifting in our seat. It truly feels like you’re not wearing anything, allowing the game to be the sole focus.

The sensation is liberating. You can hear your surroundings—a phone ringing, a pet entering the room, a family member calling your name—which is a massive advantage for gamers who can’t be completely cut off from their environment. At the same time, the audio is directed so precisely upwards towards your ears that it creates a personal sound bubble. Someone sitting a few feet away will only hear a faint whisper of the game’s audio, making it far less intrusive than TV speakers. For gamers who have struggled with the physical discomfort of headsets, the ergonomic design of the HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset isn’t just a feature; it’s a revolutionary solution.

The 3D Surround Sound Experience

Comfort is meaningless if the audio is subpar. Thankfully, this is where the neckset truly shines, especially when paired with the PS5’s Tempest 3D AudioTech. HORI has clearly engineered this device to be a showcase for Sony’s audio engine. Playing *Returnal*, a game renowned for its 3D audio design, was a revelation. The upward-firing speakers create an expansive, open soundstage that traditional headphones struggle to replicate. The sound doesn’t feel like it’s being beamed directly into your ear canals; it feels like it’s happening *around* you. The verticality of the audio was particularly impressive. The screech of a flying alien felt genuinely overhead, while the skittering of ground-based enemies was clearly positioned at a lower plane.

We then switched between the two dedicated sound modes. In FPS Mode, playing *Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II*, the audio profile shifted dramatically. The booming explosions were toned down, while subtler, high-frequency sounds like enemy footsteps, reloading clicks, and distant callouts were amplified and sharpened. It provided a distinct competitive edge, allowing us to pinpoint enemy locations through sound alone with remarkable accuracy. Switching to Bass Boost Mode for *God of War Ragnarök*, the effect was equally transformative. Kratos’s axe throws had a thunderous weight, and the orchestral score swelled with a rich, cinematic warmth. This mode delivers that powerful, room-shaking feel of a subwoofer without the actual vibrations, making epic moments feel truly monumental. The quality and implementation of these modes make the HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset an incredibly versatile audio tool. If you want to experience what the PS5’s audio is truly capable of, this neckset offers a unique and compelling way to do so.

Voice Chat and Microphone Clarity

The biggest technical challenge for a neckset is voice chat. With speakers positioned just inches away from the microphone, the potential for echo and feedback is immense. This was our primary concern going into testing, and we were thoroughly impressed by HORI’s solution. The built-in echo cancellation technology is exceptionally effective. During intense firefights with game audio at high volumes, our teammates reported our voice coming through crystal clear, with no distracting echo of our game sounds. They couldn’t tell we weren’t using a traditional headset.

The microphone quality itself is solid for voice comms. While it won’t replace a dedicated, broadcast-quality USB microphone for streaming, it’s more than capable for in-game chat. Our voice was reported as being clear and natural, without the tinny or compressed quality that plagues many lower-end headset mics. The dedicated mute button is a welcome and essential feature, providing a quick and tactile way to go silent. For any gamer who plays online, from casual co-op to competitive multiplayer, the communication capabilities of the HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset are robust, reliable, and expertly implemented.

What Other Users Are Saying

While our experience with the HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset was overwhelmingly positive, we dove into user feedback to get a more rounded picture. The sentiment largely mirrors our own findings, with many users praising the “unbelievable comfort” and calling it a “game-changer” for anyone who dislikes the feeling of traditional headphones. The immersive quality of the 3D audio is another frequent point of celebration, with gamers noting how it enhances the atmosphere of single-player titles.

However, it’s important to present a balanced view. We did encounter some isolated but concerning reports. One user noted that their unit “stopped working after a few uses,” expressing frustration with the lack of support. While this appears to be an outlier and our unit has performed flawlessly through extensive testing, it raises a valid point about potential long-term durability. Any electronic device can have manufacturing defects, and this feedback serves as a reminder to purchase from a reputable source with a solid return policy. The vast majority of feedback is positive, but this highlights a potential risk, albeit a small one, for prospective buyers.

How Does the HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset Compare?

The HORI neckset exists in a unique space, but how does it stack up against more traditional options? We compared it to three popular alternatives to see who might prefer a different approach.

1. Corsair HS35 v2 Gaming Headset

The Corsair HS35 v2 represents the classic, budget-friendly wired headset. Its primary advantage is its simplicity and significantly lower price point. It offers a traditional over-ear, closed-back design, which provides passive noise isolation that the HORI neckset completely lacks. If you game in a noisy environment or simply need to block out the world, the HS35 v2 is the more practical choice. However, it cannot compete with the HORI’s specialized 3D audio implementation or its unique, pressure-free comfort. The HS35 v2 is for the gamer on a strict budget or one who prioritizes noise isolation above all else; the HORI is for the comfort and audio enthusiast seeking a more premium, next-gen experience.

2. Logitech G G935 Wireless Gaming Headset

The Logitech G935 is a feature-rich, mid-range wireless headset that offers true freedom from all cables. It boasts 7.1 surround sound, customizable RGB lighting, and programmable G-keys. Its main draw over the HORI is its wireless nature and its feature set for PC gamers via the G Hub software. However, it brings back all the ergonomic issues the neckset solves: clamping force, potential heat build-up, and a more “closed-in” soundstage. The HORI’s audio, specifically tuned for the PS5, feels more open and natural than the G935’s 7.1 implementation. Choose the Logitech G935 if you want a versatile wireless headset with lots of bells and whistles for PC and console. Choose the HORI for unparalleled comfort and a superior 3D audio experience on PS5.

3. Corsair VIRTUOSO RGB WIRELESS XT Gaming Headset

The Corsair VIRTUOSO XT is a premium, high-end gaming headset that competes on build quality, audio fidelity, and microphone performance. It features a stunning aluminum construction, high-fidelity audio drivers, and a near-broadcast-quality detachable microphone. It also offers simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity. This is a headset for the audio connoisseur who wants the absolute best, no-compromise traditional experience. While its audio is superb, the HORI neckset still wins on the unique “out-of-head” immersive feeling and long-term comfort. The VIRTUOSO XT is the better choice for streamers, content creators, or those who demand the best possible microphone and build quality in a conventional form factor. The HORI remains the champion for pure, comfortable, long-session immersion.

Our Final Verdict: Is the HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset for You?

After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset is not a gimmick. It is a thoughtfully designed, high-performance audio solution that genuinely solves the comfort problem inherent in traditional gaming headsets. Its open, airy soundstage and brilliant integration with the PlayStation 5’s Tempest 3D AudioTech provide a level of immersion that is both unique and deeply compelling. The specialized FPS and Bass Boost modes are impactful, and the echo-free voice chat is a technical marvel.

It’s not for everyone. If you need noise isolation to block out a loud environment, a closed-back headset is still the way to go. But for the gamer who plays in a relatively quiet space and has grown tired of the pressure, heat, and discomfort of traditional designs, the HORI neckset is a revelation. It offers a near-perfect blend of high-fidelity personal audio and environmental awareness, all while delivering a level of comfort that has to be experienced to be believed.

If you’ve decided the HORI PS5 3D Gaming Neckset is the right fit for your late-night gaming sessions, you can check its current price and purchase it here.