Not all the best gaming headsets come with a hefty price tag. Affordable options like the Sony Pulse 3D offer high-quality sound, durability, and a range of features perfect for immersive gaming. Whether you're seeking wireless freedom, multi-platform compatibility, or surround sound, there's a budget-friendly gaming headset tailored to your preferences.
TL;DR – These are the Best Budget Gaming Headsets:
### Sony Pulse 3D
7Experience the thrill of gaming with the Sony Pulse 3D, designed for PS5 but versatile enough for multiple platforms. Enjoy Tempest 3D audio for an immersive sound experience.
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### Corsair HS65 Surround
2Get lost in the game with the Corsair HS65 Surround, offering 7.1 surround sound at a budget-friendly price.
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### HyperX Cloud Stinger 2
2Enjoy rich, layered sound with the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2, a cost-effective choice for gamers on a budget.
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### Astro A10
2The Astro A10 delivers dynamic sound and durability at an incredibly affordable price.
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### Turtle Beach Recon 50
2The Turtle Beach Recon 50 is a versatile, budget-friendly option that works across multiple platforms.
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While budget gaming headsets may not include all the bells and whistles of premium models, such as advanced noise-canceling or swappable batteries, they still provide a satisfying and immersive audio experience. Connect effortlessly to your gaming PC, consoles, and other devices, ensuring you don't miss out on the action.
Explore our top nine budget-friendly picks, and check them out in the UK here. You might snag an amazing 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
AnswerSee ResultsSony Pulse 3D Wireless Headset Review
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1. 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.
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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 a host of improvements, including its own spatial audio technology, Tempest 3D. Having a headset that maximizes the PS5's audio capabilities is crucial for an immersive experience. Our hands-on review of the Sony Pulse 3D confirmed its ability to deliver crisp, vibrant, and spacious sound, enhancing your gaming experience. Priced at $99.99, it's an affordable first-party peripheral that doesn't compromise on quality.
The Pulse 3D's positional audio adds a layer of immersion that standard headphones can't match. While the battery life could be better, it's sufficient for extended gaming sessions. Its versatility extends beyond the PS5, as it can be used with a PS4, gaming PC, and Mac via its included USB dongle.
Corsair HS65 Wireless – Photos
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2. 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.
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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 delivers an impressive wired headset for under $80. It connects via a 3.5mm jack or USB for 7.1 surround sound, offering an immersive and realistic audio experience. The neutral sound with excellent directional audio helps pinpoint in-game enemy locations. While it's a wired option, the audio quality more than compensates.
Our hands-on testing revealed that the HS65 Surround prioritizes sound and comfort over unnecessary features. Its 50mm drivers are encased in soft memory foam earcups, and the headset's construction combines quality plastic with aluminum for a sleek, minimalistic design. The headband might feel tight for some, but the straightforward controls—a volume dial and flip-to-mute mic—make it user-friendly. Adjustments can be made using the iCue software.
HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 – Photos
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3. HyperX Cloud Stinger 2
Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $50
### HyperX Cloud Stinger 2
2A 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.
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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 offers remarkable value for a gaming headset under $50. Its wired connection keeps costs down, ensuring plug-and-play versatility. The plastic build is a clear indicator of its affordability, but it remains solid and lightweight, perfect for long gaming sessions.
Despite its budget-friendly design, the Cloud Stinger 2's 50mm drivers produce surprisingly good sound quality with a rich, layered soundstage. However, there's minimal software support for audio tweaking. The headset is light on features, lacking RGB lighting or extensive on-ear controls, but it's ideal for gamers seeking quality sound at a low price.
In-line volume controller on Astro A10 4. Astro A10
Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $40
### Astro A10
2Durable, ultra-cheap gaming headset that skips most frills while delivering big, dynamic sound.
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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 is our top pick for budget gaming headsets under $40. It offers solid performance and comfort at a very affordable price. While it's an older model, it remains a great choice with a sturdy aluminum frame under the plastic headband and well-cushioned ear cups.
As a wired headset, the Astro A10 connects via a 3.5mm jack, complete with an in-line volume controller. Its 40mm drivers deliver big, dynamic sound with decent separation, and the flip-to-mute mic ensures clear communication with teammates. However, like many headsets in this price range, it lacks customizable audio settings.
Turtle Beach Recon 50
Best Budget Gaming Headset 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.
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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 represents a budget-friendly option where compromises are expected. While it doesn't include premium features like surround sound, it performs adequately. Our hands-on review found its 40mm drivers to be serviceable, with a decent microphone for clear communication. However, the sound quality lacks the bass needed for a cinematic experience.
Available in various colors, the Recon 50 is platform-agnostic, connecting via a 3.5mm audio jack to any device. Whether you choose the green and black colorway reminiscent of the original Xbox or another, it will work seamlessly with your preferred console.
Where to Get the Best Budget Gaming Headsets in the UK
Finding the perfect gaming headset doesn't have to break the bank. Every headset on our list is available in the UK at reasonable prices. From the SteelSeries Arctis 1 to the affordable Turtle Beach Recon 70, there's a headset for everyone. If you don't see the options below, click here.
### Sony Pulse 3D
4Best Budget PS5 Gaming Headset
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### 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 it
How Much Should I Spend on a Budget Gaming Headset?
Defining a 'budget' gaming headset varies, but generally, $100 is the upper limit. At this price, you can expect good sound and a decent mic, though some premium features may be absent.
Below $50, expect compromises like the absence of virtual surround sound or 3D audio. Budget headsets in this range often use less durable materials, which may affect longevity. If spending less than $50, anticipate needing a replacement within a year.
For those aiming to spend the least possible, headsets around $20 – $30 are the minimum I'd recommend. These very affordable options may compromise on build quality and audio clarity, but they're sufficient for basic gaming needs 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 additional technology and features like microphones and connectivity options that increase cost and bulk.
Gaming headsets prioritize a wide soundstage and surround sound for gaming immersion, whereas music benefits more from stereo sound. High-end gaming headsets like the Audeze Maxwell can offer a better music experience due to superior drivers and equalizer settings, but for most, wireless headphones or earbuds are preferable for music enjoyment.
Do expensive gaming headsets really make a difference?
To an extent, yes. Higher-priced gaming headsets often feature better audio drivers and advanced features like wireless connectivity, 3D audio, and surround sound. These enhancements can improve your gaming experience, but they aren't essential. A $50 gaming headset can still serve well for basic gaming and communication needs.
Are budget gaming headsets good for live game streaming?
Not typically. Budget gaming headsets often have subpar microphones, which may suffice for team communication but aren't ideal for streaming. For streaming, consider a dedicated streaming microphone to ensure clear audio quality and avoid turning off viewers with poor sound.
When do gaming headsets go on sale?
For the best deals on budget gaming headsets, watch for Amazon Prime Day in July and Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales. These events often feature significant discounts on popular gaming headset brands like Logitech and Turtle Beach.
