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 offer high-quality sound, durability, and a range of 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 gaming headset that meets 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 boast the advanced features found in best high-end gaming headsets, such as superior noise-canceling or swappable batteries, they still provide an enjoyable and immersive sound experience across various gaming platforms. What more could you ask for?

Explore our top nine budget picks, which are more affordable than you might think, and check them out in the UK here. You might even snag a deal on these already cost-effective 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 various 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 TargetProduct SpecificationsCompatibilityPS5/PS4, PC, Mac, MobileInterfaceWireless, WiredConnections2.4GHz wireless USB dongle, 3.5mmDrivers40mm NeodymiumFrequency Response20Hz - 20,000HzSurround Sound ModesTempest 3DBattery Life12 hoursWeight295gPROSImmersive Tempest 3D spatial audioComfortable fitCONSLimited battery lifeThe PlayStation 5 introduced a host of improvements, including its spatial audio technology, Tempest 3D. A headset that maximizes the PS5's audio capabilities is essential for an immersive gaming experience. Our hands-on review of the Sony Pulse 3D confirms its capability to deliver on this front while remaining surprisingly affordable at $99.99, making it a cost-effective choice for a first-party accessory.

The sound quality of 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 immersion, offering an experience you won't find with standard headphones. While the battery life could be better, it's sufficient for extended gaming sessions. Designed primarily for the PS5, the Pulse 3D is versatile enough to work with PS4, gaming PCs, and Macs using the included USB dongle.

Corsair HS65 Wireless – Photos

11 Images2. Corsair HS65 Surround

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $70

### Corsair HS65 Surround

2This headset delivers 7.1 surround sound for a wide and realistic soundscape at a budget-friendly price. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCompatibilityXbox Series X/S, PS5/PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC, MacInterfaceWiredConnections3.5mm, USBDrivers50mmFrequency Response20Hz - 20,000HzSurround Sound ModesDolby Audio 7.1Weight282gPROS7.1 surround sound over USBMinimalistic designCONSHeadband may be tight for someCorsair's HS65 Surround provides an exceptional wired headset for under $80. Its plug-and-play functionality makes it easy to connect to your devices via a 3.5mm jack or USB for 7.1 surround sound, offering an immersive and realistic sound experience. The audio quality is neutral with excellent directional cues, helping you locate in-game enemies. While it's tethered to your device, the sound quality is well worth it.

Our testing of the Corsair HS65 Surround focused on its essential features—sound and comfort. The headset uses two 50mm drivers within soft memory foam earcups, and its construction combines quality plastic with aluminum. Though some users might find the headband a bit tight, the design is sleek and straightforward, with a volume dial and flip-to-mute mic on the left earcup. For further sound adjustments, you can use the iCue software.

HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 – Photos

7 Images3. HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $50

### HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

2This low-cost wired headset features a plastic build and is light on features but still delivers good audio quality with a rich, layered soundstage. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsCompatibilityXbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4/PS5, PC, Nintendo Switch, MobileInterfaceWiredConnections3.5mmDrivers50mm NeodymiumFrequency Response10Hz - 28,000HzSurround Sound ModesDTS:X Spatial AudioWeight272gPROSRich, layered soundstageUltra cheapCONSMostly plastic buildFor a gaming headset under $50 from a reputable brand, the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 stands out. Its wired-only design keeps the cost down, ensuring compatibility through a 3.5mm connection across various platforms. The plastic build is evident, but it's sturdy enough and comfortable for long gaming sessions.

Despite its budget-friendly design, the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2's 50mm drivers produce impressive sound quality with a rich, layered soundstage. However, there's limited ability to customize the audio due to the lack of software support. The headset is minimalistic, lacking features like RGB lighting or extensive on-ear controls, making it perfect 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

2This durable and ultra-cheap gaming headset skips most frills but delivers big, dynamic sound. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCompatibilityPC, Mac, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, MobileInterfaceWiredConnections3.5mmDrivers40mmFrequency Response20Hz - 20,000HzWeight346gPROSDurable buildBig, dynamic soundCONSHeavyOur review of the Astro A10 highlights its great performance and comfort at a budget-friendly price. Though it's an older model, you can still get it for around $40 or less. Its design is sleek, with a sturdy build thanks to an aluminum frame under the plastic headband, and well-cushioned ear cups for comfort.

The Astro A10 is a wired headset using a 3.5mm jack for connectivity across multiple devices, featuring in-line volume control. Its 40mm drivers provide big, dynamic sound with good separation, and the flip-to-mute mic ensures clear communication with teammates. However, like other headsets in this price range, there's no option to customize the audio settings.

5. Turtle Beach Recon 50

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $30

### Turtle Beach Recon 50

2The super affordable Turtle Beach Recon 50 comes in various colors and is compatible with any console you own. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCompatibilityXbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, Switch, PC, MobileInterface3.5mmDrivers40mmFrequency Response20Hz – 20,000HzWeight153gPROSSuper cheapDecent microphone for the moneyCONSSound lacks bassThe Turtle Beach Recon 50, being extremely budget-friendly, requires some compromises. While it doesn't offer premium features like surround sound or 3D audio, it gets the job done. Our hands-on review found that its 40mm drivers provide decent sound, and the microphone is surprisingly clear for the price, though the bass is lacking, which may affect the cinematic feel of big game moments.

Available in multiple color options, each representing different gaming platforms, the Turtle Beach Recon 50 is versatile and compatible with any device via its 3.5mm audio jack. Choose your favorite color and enjoy it across all your gaming platforms.

Where to Get the Best Budget Gaming Headsets in the UK

Finding the perfect gaming headset doesn't have to be expensive. Each headset on our list is available in the UK at a reasonable price. Whether it's our top pick, the SteelSeries Arctis 1, or the budget-friendly Turtle Beach Recon 70, there's a headset for everyone. 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 typically, spending up to $100 is considered reasonable. At this price, you can expect good sound quality and a decent microphone, though some premium features may be absent.

When prices drop below $50, you'll start noticing more compromises. Features like virtual surround sound and 3D Audio are often the first to go. At this price point, many headsets are made from less durable plastic, which may not last long. If you're spending $50 or less, you might need to replace the headset within a year.

For those aiming to spend as little as possible, gaming headsets in the $20 - $30 range are the minimum I'd recommend. These headsets often have lower build quality and basic audio drivers that can muddy the sound, but they're still sufficient for hearing in-game action and communicating with friends without a terrible microphone.

Budget Gaming Headset FAQ

Are gaming headsets good for listening to music?

While gaming headsets can play music, they typically prioritize bass-heavy sound and a wide soundstage, which can muddy the audio compared to dedicated headphones. High-end gaming headsets like the Audeze Maxwell offer better music quality thanks to superior drivers and customizable EQ settings, but for the best music listening experience, wireless headphones or earbuds are recommended.

Do expensive gaming headsets really make a difference?

Expensive gaming headsets can offer better audio quality, wireless connectivity, and features like 3D audio and surround sound. However, for basic gaming needs, a $50 headset can suffice if you're just looking to hear the game and chat with friends.

Are budget gaming headsets good for live game streaming?

Budget gaming headsets generally have microphones that are adequate for team communication but may not be ideal for streaming. For better audio quality in streaming, a dedicated streaming microphone with advanced features is recommended to ensure a professional sound for your audience.

When do gaming headsets go on sale?

To get gaming headsets at a discount, consider shopping during Amazon Prime Day in July or during the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, which are excellent times to find deals on tech products, including gaming headsets.