Top Affordable Gaming Headsets Still Worth Purchasing

Not all the best gaming headsets need to break the bank. Affordable options like the Sony Pulse 3D deliver high-quality sound, a durable build, and a variety of features that enhance your gaming experience. Whether you're looking for a wireless connection, multi-platform compatibility, or immersive surround sound, there are budget-friendly gaming headsets tailored to meet your needs.

TL; DR – These are the Best Budget Gaming Headsets:

### Sony Pulse 3D

7See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Target### Corsair HS65 Surround

2See it at Amazon### HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

2See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Target### Astro A10

2See it at Amazon### Turtle Beach Recon 50

2See it at AmazonWhile budget gaming headsets may not include all the bells and whistles found in the best high-end gaming headsets, such as advanced noise-cancellation or swappable batteries, they still provide an enjoyable and immersive audio experience. They reliably connect to your gaming PC, consoles, and other devices, ensuring you stay in the game without breaking the bank.

Explore our top nine budget-friendly picks, and check availability in the UK here. You might snag a fantastic deal on these already affordable options or opt for the best gaming earbuds for a more portable solution.

Contributions by Danielle Abraham, Georgie Peru, and Michelle Rae Uy

Sony Pulse 3D Wireless Headset Review

10 Images1. Sony Pulse 3D

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $100

### Sony Pulse 3D

7Designed for the PS5 but compatible with many other devices, this affordable headset offers Tempest 3D positional audio for a detailed, immersive sound experience. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Target

Product Specifications

• Compatibility: PS5/PS4, PC, Mac, Mobile
• Interface: Wireless, Wired
• Connections: 2.4GHz wireless USB dongle, 3.5mm
• Drivers: 40mm Neodymium
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20,000Hz
• Surround Sound Modes: Tempest 3D
• Battery Life: 12 hours
• Weight: 295g

PROS

• Immersive Tempest 3D spatial audio
• Comfortable fit

CONS

• Limited battery life

The launch of the PlayStation 5 introduced numerous enhancements, including its proprietary spatial audio technology, Tempest 3D. A headset that can leverage the PS5's audio capabilities is essential for an immersive experience. Our hands-on review of the Sony Pulse 3D confirms its capability to deliver on this front, and at an affordable price of $99.99, it's a cost-effective first-party accessory.

The audio quality from these headphones is crisp, vibrant, and expansive, pulling you right into the action. The positional audio provided by Tempest 3D adds an additional layer of immersion. While the battery life might not be the longest, it's sufficient for extended gaming sessions. Though designed primarily for the PS5, the Pulse 3D's versatility shines through its wireless connectivity via a USB dongle, allowing it to work with PS4, gaming PCs, and Macs, provided they have a USB port.

Corsair HS65 Wireless – Photos

11 Images2. Corsair HS65 Surround

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $70

### Corsair HS65 Surround

2This headset offers 7.1 surround sound for a wide and realistic soundscape at a budget-friendly price. See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Compatibility: Xbox Series X/S, PS5/PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mac
• Interface: Wired
• Connections: 3.5mm, USB
• Drivers: 50mm
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20,000Hz
• Surround Sound Modes: Dolby Audio 7.1
• Weight: 282g

PROS

• 7.1 surround sound over USB
• Minimalistic design

CONS

• Headband can be tight for some

Corsair offers an impressive wired headset for under $80 with the HS65 Surround. It's a straightforward plug-and-play option that uses a 3.5mm jack. Connect it via USB for 7.1 surround sound, which provides an immersive and realistic audio environment. The headset delivers neutral sound with excellent directional audio, helping you pinpoint enemy locations in-game. While tethered, the audio quality from these headphones is well worth it.

Our review of the Corsair HS65 Surround highlights its focus on sound quality and comfort rather than unnecessary features. The audio is delivered via two 50mm drivers within soft memory foam earcups. The headset's construction combines quality plastic and aluminum, though some might find the headband a bit tight. It features a simple volume dial on the left earcup and a flip-to-mute feature on the non-detachable microphone. For further sound adjustments, the iCue software is available.

HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 – Photos

7 Images3. HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $50

### HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

2A cost-effective wired headset with a plastic build and minimal features, yet it delivers good audio quality with a rich, layered soundstage. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Target

Product Specifications

• Compatibility: Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4/PS5, PC, Nintendo Switch, Mobile
• Interface: Wired
• Connections: 3.5mm
• Drivers: 50mm Neodymium
• Frequency Response: 10Hz - 28,000Hz
• Surround Sound Modes: DTS:X Spatial Audio
• Weight: 272g

PROS

• Rich, layered soundstage
• Ultra cheap

CONS

• Mostly plastic build

Our testing of the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2, priced under $50, showcases its value. Its wired-only design keeps costs down, utilizing a 3.5mm connection for plug-and-play versatility. The headset's plastic construction is evident, but it remains sturdy and comfortable for long gaming sessions.

Despite its budget-friendly nature, the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2's 50mm drivers produce surprisingly good sound with a rich, layered soundstage. However, customization options are limited, with no software support for audio adjustments. The headset lacks features like RGB lighting or extensive on-ear controls, making it perfect for those seeking quality sound without breaking the bank.

In-line volume controller on Astro A104. Astro A10

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $40

### Astro A10

2A durable, budget-friendly gaming headset that prioritizes sound quality and comfort over frills. See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Compatibility: PC, Mac, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Mobile
• Interface: Wired
• Connections: 3.5mm
• Drivers: 40mm
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20,000Hz
• Weight: 346g

PROS

• Durable build
• Big, dynamic sound

CONS

• Heavy

The Astro A10 stands out as a top budget pick, offering great performance and comfort at a reasonable price. While it may be an older model, its sturdy aluminum frame and well-cushioned ear cups provide durability and comfort. The headset connects via a 3.5mm jack, with in-line volume control on the audio cable. Its 40mm drivers deliver big, dynamic sound with good separation, and the flip-to-mute microphone ensures clear communication. However, like other headsets in this price range, customization options are limited.

5. Turtle Beach Recon 50

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $30

### Turtle Beach Recon 50

2The incredibly affordable Turtle Beach Recon 50 offers a variety of color options and wide platform compatibility. See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Compatibility: Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, Switch, PC, Mobile
• Interface: 3.5mm
• Drivers: 40mm
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20,000Hz
• Weight: 153g

PROS

• Super cheap
• Decent microphone for the money

CONS

• Sound lacks bass

The Turtle Beach Recon 50 is a lesson in budget compromises. While it doesn't boast premium features like surround sound or 3D audio, it functions well within its price range. Our hands-on review found that its 40mm drivers provide satisfactory sound, and the microphone is surprisingly decent for the price. However, the audio lacks bass, which might detract from the cinematic feel of in-game explosions.

Available in multiple colorways, the Turtle Beach Recon 50 is platform-agnostic, connecting via a 3.5mm audio jack. Whether you choose the green and black colorway reminiscent of the original Xbox or another, it's compatible with any device you wish to plug it into.

Where to Get the Best Budget Gaming Headsets in the UK

Finding the perfect gaming headset can feel like a match made in heaven, and you don't need to spend a fortune to find it. Each headset on our list is available in the UK at a reasonable price. From our favorite, the SteelSeries Arctis 1, to the highly affordable Turtle Beach Recon 70, there's a headset waiting for you. If you don't see the headsets listed below, click here.

### Sony Pulse 3D

4Best Budget PS5 Gaming HeadsetSee it### Corsair HS70 Pro Gaming Headset

16Best Budget Wireless Gaming Headset£99.99 save 1%£98.99 at Amazon### SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3

4£90.91 at Amazon### Logitech G435 Lightspeed

5Wireless Audio on the Cheap£56.79 at Amazon### HYPERX 519T1AA Cloud Stinger 2

3See itHow Much Should I Spend on a Budget Gaming Headset?

The definition of a 'budget' gaming headset varies, but generally, spending up to $100 is considered within the budget range. At this price point, you can expect good sound quality and a decent microphone, though some premium features might be absent.

Below $50, you'll notice more compromises. Features like virtual surround sound and 3D audio are often the first to be cut. At this price, many headsets are made from less durable materials, which can affect longevity. If you're spending $50 or less, you might need to replace the headset within a year.

For the lowest price point, gaming headsets around $20 – $30 are the minimum I'd recommend. These headsets often have subpar build quality and audio drivers that can muddy the sound, but they're still functional for basic gaming and communication needs.

Budget Gaming Headset FAQ

Are gaming headsets good for listening to music?

While gaming headsets can play music, they are not typically optimized for it. Headphones in the same price range often provide clearer, more balanced sound for music, whereas gaming headsets tend to emphasize bass and may sound muddied. This is due to the additional features and technology in gaming headsets, such as microphones and connectivity options, which can affect cost and bulk.

Gaming headsets prioritize a wide soundstage and surround sound for in-game cues, while music is better suited to stereo sound. High-end gaming headsets like the Audeze Maxwell can offer a decent music listening experience due to better drivers and customizable equalizer settings. However, for music enthusiasts, wireless headphones or earbuds are generally a better choice.

Do expensive gaming headsets really make a difference?

To a certain extent, yes. Investing more money can grant access to superior audio drivers and advanced features like wireless connectivity, 3D audio, and surround sound. These enhancements can improve your gaming experience, but they are not essential for basic gameplay and communication. A $50 gaming headset can suffice for casual gamers.

Are budget gaming headsets good for live game streaming?

Generally, no. Budget gaming headsets often have microphones that are adequate for in-game communication but may not meet the standards required for streaming. For streaming, a dedicated streaming microphone offers better sound quality and more control over audio settings, enhancing your audience's experience.

When do gaming headsets go on sale?

If you're looking to buy a budget gaming headset at a discount, consider shopping during Amazon Prime Day in July or during the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. These periods often feature significant discounts on gaming peripherals, including headsets from brands like Logitech and Turtle Beach.