Top Budget Gaming Headsets Still Worth Purchasing

Not all the best gaming headsets come with a hefty price tag. Affordable options like the Sony Pulse 3D deliver high-quality sound, durability, and features that enhance your gaming experience. Whether you're looking for wireless freedom, multi-platform compatibility, or immersive surround sound, there's a budget-friendly headset 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 AmazonBudget gaming headsets may not boast all the bells and whistles of the best high-end gaming headsets, such as advanced noise-canceling or swappable batteries. However, they offer a satisfying and immersive listening experience, ensuring reliable connectivity with your gaming PC, consoles, and other devices. What more could you ask for?

Explore our top nine picks, all available at a more affordable price than you might think—and find them in the UK here. You might just snag a fantastic deal on these already budget-friendly options. Or, consider the best gaming earbuds for a portable alternative.

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 launch of the PlayStation 5 introduced a range of enhancements, including its unique spatial audio technology, Tempest 3D. A headset that maximizes the PS5's audio capabilities is essential for a truly immersive experience. Our hands-on review of the Sony Pulse 3D confirms its capability to deliver this experience while remaining surprisingly affordable at $99.99.

The sound quality is crisp, vibrant, and spacious, placing you right in the heart of the action. The positional audio from Tempest 3D enhances immersion in ways standard headphones cannot match. While the battery life may not be exceptional, it's sufficient for extended gaming sessions. Though designed primarily for the PS5, the Pulse 3D's versatility shines through its use with a PS4, gaming PC, and Mac, thanks to its USB dongle connectivity.

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 may be tight for some

Corsair's HS65 Surround delivers an impressive wired headset experience for under $80. It's a straightforward plug-and-play option that connects via a 3.5mm jack, with USB connectivity enabling 7.1 surround sound for a more immersive and realistic soundscape. The neutral sound quality and excellent directional audio can help you pinpoint in-game enemy positions. While tethered to your gaming setup, the audio quality more than compensates for the lack of wireless freedom.

Our testing revealed that the HS65 Surround focuses on essentials: sound and comfort. It features two 50mm drivers within soft memory foam earcups. The construction combines quality plastic and aluminum, though some might find the headband a bit snug. The headset's design is simple, with just a volume dial and flip-to-mute mic on the left earcup, and adjustments can be made using 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 that features a plastic build and is light on features while still delivering 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

For a gaming headset under $50 from a reputable brand, the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 stands out in our testing. Its wired design helps keep costs down, ensuring plug-and-play compatibility across various platforms. The predominantly plastic construction reflects its affordability, yet it remains solid and comfortable for long gaming sessions.

Despite its cost-effective design, the 50mm drivers deliver impressive audio quality with a rich, layered soundstage. However, customization options are limited, with virtually no software support for audio tweaking. This headset prioritizes sound quality over features, making it ideal for those seeking a wallet-friendly option.

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 stands out as a budget-friendly option that offers solid performance and comfort. Though slightly dated, it remains a great value at around $40. Its sturdy build includes an aluminum frame under the plastic headband, and well-cushioned ear cups provide comfort during extended play.

As a wired headset, it connects via a 3.5mm jack and includes in-line volume control. The 40mm drivers deliver robust, dynamic sound with good separation, and the flip-to-mute mic ensures clear communication with teammates. However, customization options are limited at this price point.

5. 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. 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 represents the ultimate budget choice, requiring some compromises. You won't find premium features like surround sound or 3D audio, but it performs adequately. Our hands-on review found that the 40mm drivers offer satisfactory sound, and the microphone is surprisingly good for the price, suitable for clear communication in games like Helldivers 2. However, bass response is lacking, which may disappoint those seeking cinematic audio.

Available in multiple colors, each representing a different gaming platform, the Recon 50 is versatile and compatible with any device via a 3.5mm audio jack. Whether you choose the green colorway for Xbox or another, it works seamlessly across all platforms.

Where to Get the Best Budget Gaming Headsets in the UK

Finding the perfect gaming headset doesn't have to break the bank. Each headset on our list is available in the UK at affordable prices. From the favored SteelSeries Arctis 1 to the budget-friendly Turtle Beach Recon 70, there's a headset for everyone. If you don't see the headsets 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?

Defining a 'budget' gaming headset varies, but typically, a budget option shouldn't exceed $100. At this price, you can expect excellent sound and a decent microphone, though you might miss out on some advanced features found in higher-end models.

Below $50, you'll see more compromises, such as the absence of virtual surround sound and 3D audio. Headsets in this range often use less durable materials that may not withstand long-term use. If you're spending $50 or less, anticipate needing a replacement within a year.

For the lowest possible cost, gaming headsets between $20 and $30 are the minimum I recommend. At this price, build quality is compromised, and audio quality might suffer, but they're still adequate for basic gaming needs and communication.

Budget Gaming Headset FAQ

Are gaming headsets good for listening to music?

Generally, gaming headsets aren't ideal for music listening. Compared to similarly priced headphones, gaming headsets often prioritize bass-heavy sound that can become muddied, especially in cheaper models. This is due to the additional technology and features, like microphones and connectivity options, that increase bulk and cost.

Most gaming headsets focus on a wide soundstage and surround sound for gaming immersion, while music benefits more from stereo sound. However, high-end gaming headsets like the Audeze Maxwell can offer a decent music listening experience with better drivers, wider frequency ranges, and customizable equalizer settings. For pure music enjoyment, wireless headphones or earbuds are generally better suited.

Do expensive gaming headsets really make a difference?

To an extent. Investing more can unlock better audio drivers and additional features like wireless connectivity, 3D audio, and surround sound. These enhancements are nice but not essential for basic gaming and communication, which can be achieved with a $50 headset.

Are budget gaming headsets good for live game streaming?

Not typically. Budget headsets often have subpar microphones, which may suffice for team communication but fall short for streaming. For streaming, a dedicated streaming microphone offers superior audio quality and extensive customization, enhancing your audience's experience.

When do gaming headsets go on sale?

To snag gaming headsets at a discount, consider shopping during Amazon Prime Day in July or during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. These periods offer significant savings on many budget gaming headset brands like Logitech and Turtle Beach.