The Best Cheap Gaming Headsets That Are Still Worth Buying

Not all the best gaming headsets come with a hefty price tag. Affordable options like the Sony Pulse 3D provide high-quality sound, durable construction, and a variety of features that enhance your gaming experience. Whether you're looking for a wireless setup, multi-platform compatibility, or immersive surround sound, there are budget-friendly gaming headsets tailored to your needs.

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

Sony Pulse 3D

7 See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy See it at Target

Corsair HS65 Surround

2 See it at Amazon

HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

2 See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy See it at Target

Astro A10

2 See it at Amazon

Turtle Beach Recon 50

2 See it at Amazon

While budget gaming headsets may not offer all the premium features found in the best high-end gaming headsets, such as advanced noise-canceling or hot-swappable batteries, they still deliver a satisfying and immersive audio experience. These headsets reliably connect to your gaming PC, consoles, and other devices, providing everything you need for an enjoyable gaming session.

Explore our top nine budget-friendly picks, and check out options available in the UK here. You might snag a great deal on these already affordable options or opt for 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 Images

1. Sony Pulse 3D

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $100

Sony Pulse 3D

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

When the PlayStation 5 was released, it introduced a range of improvements, including its own spatial audio technology called Tempest 3D. A headset that can maximize the PS5’s audio capabilities is essential for a truly immersive gaming experience. Our hands-on review of the Sony Pulse 3D revealed that it not only meets these expectations but is surprisingly affordable at $99.99, making it a cost-effective choice for a first-party peripheral.

The audio from the Sony Pulse 3D is crisp, vibrant, and spacious, placing you right in the heart of the action. The positional audio from Tempest 3D enhances the immersion, offering a depth that standard headphones can't match. While the battery life may not be exceptional, it's sufficient for extended gaming sessions. Although designed primarily for the PS5, its versatility extends to PS4, gaming PCs, and Macs, thanks to its included USB dongle for wireless connectivity.

Corsair HS65 Wireless – Photos

11 Images 2. Corsair HS65 Surround

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $70

Corsair HS65 Surround

2 This 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 may be tight for some

Corsair's HS65 Surround is an exceptional wired headset available for under $80. Its plug-and-play functionality makes it easy to connect via a 3.5mm jack, while a USB connection unlocks 7.1 surround sound for an expansive and lifelike audio experience. The headset delivers neutral sound with excellent directional audio, aiding in pinpointing enemy positions in-game. Although you remain tethered to your gaming setup, the audio quality is well worth it.

Our hands-on testing confirmed that the Corsair HS65 Surround focuses on what matters most: sound and comfort. It features 50mm drivers encased in soft memory foam earcups, delivering clear audio. The construction combines quality plastic and aluminum for a sleek design, though the headband might feel tight to some users. The controls are straightforward, with a volume dial and a flip-to-mute microphone, and further sound adjustments can be made using the iCue software.

HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 – Photos

7 Images 3. HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $50

HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

2 A low-cost wired headset that features a plastic build and is light on features while still delivering good audio quality with a rich, layered soundstage. See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy See 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

For a gaming headset under $50, the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 is a standout choice. Its wired design keeps costs down, offering plug-and-play versatility with a 3.5mm connection. The plastic construction is evident but solid, ensuring a comfortable and lightweight experience perfect for long gaming sessions.

Despite its budget-friendly nature, the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 boasts impressive sound quality through its 50mm drivers, providing a rich and layered soundstage. However, customization options are limited, with no software support for audio tweaks. This headset is ideal for those seeking quality sound without breaking the bank, though it lacks additional features like RGB lighting or extensive on-ear controls.

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $40

Astro A10

2 Durable, 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 stands out as a budget-friendly option with impressive performance and comfort. Although an older model, it offers a sleek design and a sturdy build for around $40 or less. An aluminum frame under the plastic-wrapped headband enhances durability, while well-cushioned ear cups ensure comfort during extended use.

As a wired headset, the Astro A10 connects via a 3.5mm jack, with an in-line volume control for convenience. Its 40mm drivers produce big, dynamic sound with good separation, and the flip-to-mute microphone maintains clear communication with teammates. However, like other headsets in this price range, it lacks customizable audio settings.

5. Turtle Beach Recon 50

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $30

Turtle Beach Recon 50

2 The 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 ultra-affordable gaming headset that requires some compromises. While it doesn't feature premium technologies like surround sound or 3D audio, it provides functional performance. Our hands-on review found the 40mm drivers to be satisfactory, and the microphone offers clear communication, ideal for games like Helldivers 2. However, the audio lacks depth in bass, which may detract from the cinematic experience of explosive moments.

Available in multiple colorways, each representing different gaming platforms, the Turtle Beach Recon 50 is versatile and compatible with any device featuring a 3.5mm audio jack. Choose your preferred color and enjoy seamless connectivity across various platforms.

Where to Get the Best Budget Gaming Headsets in the UK

Finding the perfect gaming headset doesn't have to be expensive. Every headset on our list is available in the UK at a reasonable price. From the favored SteelSeries Arctis 1 to the budget-friendly Turtle Beach Recon 70, there's a headset suited for you. If the options below aren't visible, click here for more details.

Sony Pulse 3D

4 Best Budget PS5 Gaming Headset See it

Corsair HS70 Pro Gaming Headset

16 Best Budget Wireless Gaming Headset £99.99 save 1% £98.99 at Amazon

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3

4 £90.91 at Amazon

Logitech G435 Lightspeed

5 Wireless Audio on the Cheap £56.79 at Amazon

HYPERX 519T1AA Cloud Stinger 2

3 See it

How Much Should I Spend on a Budget Gaming Headset?

The definition of a 'budget' gaming headset varies, but generally, $100 is considered the upper limit. At this price, you can expect great sound and a decent microphone, though some premium features may be absent.

Below $50, you'll notice more compromises. Features like virtual surround sound and 3D audio are often excluded. Headsets in this range may use less durable plastic, which could impact longevity. If you spend $50 or less, you might need to replace the headset within a year.

For the most budget-conscious, gaming headsets between $20 and $30 are the lowest recommended price point. These headsets often have lower build quality and less refined audio drivers, but they still offer basic functionality for gaming and communication.

Budget Gaming Headset FAQ

Are gaming headsets good for listening to music?

Generally, gaming headsets are not ideal for music listening. Compared to similarly priced headphones, gaming headsets tend to be bass-heavy and can sound muddied, particularly cheaper models. This is due to the additional technology and features like microphones and controls that increase the cost and bulk of headsets.

Gaming headsets are designed to provide a wide soundstage and surround sound for in-game immersion, whereas music benefits from stereo sound. However, high-end gaming headsets like the Audeze Maxwell can offer a better music listening experience due to superior drivers and customizable equalizer settings. For music, wireless headphones or earbuds are typically a better choice.

Do expensive gaming headsets really make a difference?

Expensive gaming headsets do offer advantages, such as better audio drivers, wireless connectivity, and features like 3D audio and surround sound. However, these are not essential for basic gaming needs. A $50 gaming headset can still provide satisfactory audio and communication for casual gamers.

Are budget gaming headsets good for live game streaming?

Budget gaming headsets are not ideal for live streaming. Their microphones often lack the quality needed for professional streaming. While they work for in-game communication, a dedicated streaming microphone offers superior audio quality and software support, which is crucial for engaging viewers.

When do gaming headsets go on sale?

To find gaming headsets at a discount, consider shopping during Amazon Prime Day in July, which often features deals on brands like Logitech and Turtle Beach. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are also excellent times for tech purchases, including gaming headsets.