Top Budget Gaming Headsets Still Worth Buying

Not all the best gaming headsets need to break the bank. Affordable options, such as the Sony Pulse 3D, offer high-quality sound, durability, and a range of features that enhance your gaming experience. Whether you're seeking a wireless connection, multi-platform compatibility, or immersive surround sound, there's a budget-friendly gaming headset tailored to 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 AmazonBudget gaming headsets might not offer all the premium features of the best high-end gaming headsets, such as advanced noise-cancellation or hot-swappable batteries. However, you'll still enjoy a satisfying, immersive listening experience and a reliable connection to your gaming PC, consoles, and other devices. What more could you ask for?

Explore our top nine picks, all available at prices that won't break the bank. For UK shoppers, see them here. You might even snag a deal on these already affordable options or consider 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 detailed, immersive sound. 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 PlayStation 5 introduced numerous enhancements, including its spatial audio technology, Tempest 3D. A headset that fully utilizes the PS5's audio capabilities is essential for a truly immersive experience. Our hands-on review of the Sony Pulse 3D confirms its ability to deliver this, and it does so at a surprisingly affordable price of $99.99, making it a cost-effective first-party peripheral.

The audio quality of the Sony Pulse 3D is crisp, vibrant, and spacious, drawing you into the heart of the action. The positional audio provided by Tempest 3D enhances immersion significantly. While the battery life could be better, it's sufficient for extended gaming sessions. Although designed primarily for the PS5, the Pulse 3D is versatile, compatible with PS4, gaming PCs, and Macs via its USB dongle.

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's HS65 Surround is an outstanding wired headset for under $80. It's simple to use with a plug-and-play 3.5mm jack, but also offers 7.1 surround sound via USB for a more immersive experience. The audio quality is neutral with excellent directional cues, helping you pinpoint in-game enemy positions. While you remain tethered, the sound quality justifies the trade-off.

Our hands-on testing revealed that the HS65 Surround focuses on sound and comfort rather than unnecessary features. The audio is delivered through 50mm drivers encased in soft memory foam earcups. The headset's build combines quality plastic and aluminum, although some users might find the headband too tight. Controls are straightforward, with a volume dial and a flip-to-mute microphone, and further adjustments can be made via the iCue software.

HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 – Photos

7 Images3. HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $50

### HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

2A low-cost wired headset with a plastic build, it's light on features but 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

The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 is an excellent choice for a sub-$50 gaming headset from a reputable brand. Its wired interface keeps costs down, offering plug-and-play versatility. While the plastic build reflects its affordability, it remains solid and comfortable for long gaming sessions.

Despite its budget design, the Cloud Stinger 2 boasts impressive sound quality with 50mm drivers providing a rich, layered soundstage. However, it lacks software support for audio customization and is light on features, with no RGB lighting or extensive on-ear controls, making it ideal for those seeking good sound at a low price.

In-line volume controller on Astro A104. Astro A10

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $40

### Astro A10

2Durable, ultra-cheap gaming headset that skips most frills while delivering big, dynamic sound. 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 offers great performance and comfort at a budget-friendly price of around $40. While an older model, its sturdy aluminum frame and well-cushioned ear cups ensure durability and comfort. The wired design uses a 3.5mm jack with in-line volume control, and its 40mm drivers produce big, dynamic sound with clear communication via the flip-to-mute microphone. However, customization options are limited.

5. Turtle Beach Recon 50

Best Budget Gaming Heaset Under $30

### Turtle Beach Recon 50

2The super cheap Turtle Beach Recon 50 comes in a wide array of colors and will work with whatever console you have. 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 an extremely budget-friendly option that requires compromises. While it lacks premium features like surround sound, it performs adequately. Our hands-on review found the 40mm drivers to deliver acceptable sound quality and a surprisingly decent microphone for communication. However, the bass response is limited, which might affect the cinematic feel of big in-game moments.

Available in various colors, the Recon 50 is versatile across all gaming platforms thanks to its 3.5mm audio jack. Choose your preferred color and enjoy compatibility with any device.

Where to Get the Best Budget Gaming Headsets in the UK

Finding the perfect gaming headset doesn't have to cost a fortune. Every headset on this list is available in the UK at reasonable prices. Whether you opt for our top pick, the SteelSeries Arctis 1, or the affordable Turtle Beach Recon 70, there's an option 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, $100 is the upper limit. At this price, you can expect good sound and a decent microphone, though some advanced features may be missing.

Below $50, you'll encounter more compromises. Features like virtual surround sound and 3D audio are often omitted, and the build quality may be less robust. If you're aiming to spend as little as possible, consider headsets in the $20-$30 range, but be aware that the build quality and audio performance will be basic, suitable for casual gaming and communication.

Budget Gaming Headset FAQ

Are gaming headsets good for listening to music?

While gaming headsets can play music, they are typically optimized for gaming rather than music listening. Compared to similarly priced headphones, gaming headsets tend to have a bass-heavy sound that can become muddled, especially in cheaper models. This is due to the additional technology and features in headsets, which can affect both cost and sound quality.

Gaming headsets focus on a wide soundstage and surround sound for in-game immersion, whereas music benefits from stereo sound. High-end gaming headsets, like the Audeze Maxwell, can offer a better music listening experience with superior drivers and adjustable equalizers. However, for the best music experience, wireless headphones or earbuds are recommended.

Do expensive gaming headsets really make a difference?

To an extent, yes. Higher-priced gaming headsets often include better audio drivers and additional features like wireless connectivity, 3D audio, and surround sound. These enhancements are nice but not essential for basic gaming needs. A $50 gaming headset can still provide adequate sound and communication for casual gaming.

Are budget gaming headsets good for live game streaming?

Budget gaming headsets are generally not ideal for live streaming due to their microphones' variable quality. While they suffice for in-game communication, a dedicated streaming microphone offers superior sound quality and more customization options, which are crucial for streaming to a wider audience.

When do gaming headsets go on sale?

To buy gaming headsets at a discount, consider shopping during Amazon Prime Day in July, which often features sales on budget gaming headset brands like Logitech and Turtle Beach. Additionally, Black Friday and Cyber Monday are prime times for tech deals, including gaming headsets.