Top Affordable Gaming Headsets Still Worth Purchasing

Not all the best gaming headsets need to break the bank. There are plenty of affordable options that offer impressive sound quality, durability, and a range of features to enhance your gaming experience. For instance, the Sony Pulse 3D provides high-quality audio and a robust build at a budget-friendly price. Whether you're looking for wireless freedom, multi-platform support, or immersive surround sound, you can find a cost-effective 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 AmazonBudget gaming headsets might not have all the bells and whistles of the best high-end gaming headsets, such as advanced noise-cancellation or swappable batteries. However, they still deliver an enjoyable, immersive sound experience and reliable connectivity across your gaming PC, consoles, and other devices. What more could you ask for?

Explore our top nine picks that won't break the bank – and check them out in the UK here. You might just snag a great deal on these already affordable options, or perhaps opt for the best gaming earbuds for something more portable.

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. Experience the thrill of gaming with crisp, vibrant audio that places you right in the heart of the action. The headset's wireless connectivity via a USB dongle makes it versatile enough to use with PS5, PS4, gaming PCs, and Macs.

See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsCompatibilityPS5/PS4, PC, Mac, Mobile InterfaceWireless, WiredConnections2.4GHz wireless USB dongle, 3.5mmDrivers40mm NeodymiumFrequency Response20Hz - 20,000HzSurround Sound ModesTempest 3DBattery Life12 hoursWeight295gPROSImmersive Tempest 3D spatial audioComfortable fitCONSLimited battery lifeWith the launch of the PlayStation 5, gamers were introduced to a new level of audio immersion through Tempest 3D technology. The Sony Pulse 3D headset not only leverages this technology effectively but does so at a surprisingly affordable price of $99.99. Our hands-on review confirmed its capability to deliver a rich, spacious sound experience, enhancing your gaming sessions without breaking the bank.

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. Enjoy a neutral sound profile with excellent directional audio, helping you pinpoint enemy locations in-game.

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 someThe Corsair HS65 Surround is a remarkable wired headset that delivers top-notch audio for under $80. Its plug-and-play design makes it easy to use, and the 7.1 surround sound via USB connection provides an immersive gaming experience. The headset's 50mm drivers and soft memory foam earcups ensure comfort and quality sound, although the headband might feel a bit tight for some users.

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. Ideal for gamers on a tight budget, this headset offers versatility with its plug-and-play 3.5mm connection.

See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsCompatibilityXbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4/PS5, PC, Nintendo Switch, Mobile InterfaceWiredConnections3.5mmDrivers50mm NeodymiumFrequency Response10Hz - 28,000HzSurround Sound ModesDTS:X Spatial AudioWeight272gPROSRich, layered soundstageUltra cheapCONSMostly plastic buildOur testing of the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 revealed a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on sound quality. Its 50mm drivers produce a rich, layered soundstage, perfect for extended gaming sessions. While it lacks software support for audio tweaking and features a mostly plastic build, its lightweight design and affordability make it a great choice for those looking to save money.

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. Its sturdy build and comfortable design make it a reliable choice for budget-conscious gamers.

See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCompatibilityPC, Mac, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, MobileInterfaceWiredConnections3.5mmDrivers40mmFrequency Response20Hz - 20,000HzWeight346gPROSDurable buildBig, dynamic soundCONSHeavyThe Astro A10 stands out as a budget-friendly option with impressive performance. Its aluminum frame and well-cushioned ear cups offer durability and comfort, while its 40mm drivers deliver dynamic sound. Though it's on the heavier side, its affordable price and in-line volume control make it an attractive choice for gamers looking to save money.

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. It's a basic, no-frills headset that still offers decent audio and a surprisingly good microphone for its price.

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 is an entry-level headset that provides essential functionality at a very low cost. While it doesn't offer premium features like surround sound, its 40mm drivers deliver satisfactory audio, and the microphone is clear enough for in-game communication. Available in multiple colorways, this headset is compatible with a variety of gaming platforms via its 3.5mm audio jack.

Where to Get the Best Budget Gaming Headsets in the UK

Finding the perfect gaming headset doesn't have to be expensive. All the headsets listed here are available in the UK at reasonable prices. Whether you're interested in the Sony Pulse 3D or the Turtle Beach Recon 70, there's a budget-friendly option waiting for you. 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 can vary, but generally, spending up to $100 is considered reasonable. At this price point, you can expect good sound quality and a decent microphone, though some premium features might be missing.

When the price falls below $50, you'll start to see more compromises. Features like virtual surround sound and 3D audio are often omitted, and the build quality may rely on less durable materials. If you're looking to spend as little as possible, gaming headsets in the $20 – $30 range are the bare minimum I'd recommend. These options may lack in build quality and audio fidelity, but they're sufficient for basic gaming needs.

Budget Gaming Headset FAQ

Are gaming headsets good for listening to music?

While gaming headsets can technically play music, they are not typically optimized for this purpose. Compared to similarly priced headphones, gaming headsets often have a bass-heavy sound that can become muddled, especially at lower price points. This is due to the additional features like microphones and connectivity options that add bulk and affect sound quality.

Gaming headsets prioritize a wide soundstage and surround sound to enhance in-game audio cues, whereas music listening benefits more from stereo sound. High-end gaming headsets like the Audeze Maxwell can offer a better music listening experience due to superior drivers and adjustable equalizer settings. However, for the best music experience, wireless headphones or earbuds are generally more suitable.

Do expensive gaming headsets really make a difference?

Expensive gaming headsets do offer enhanced features like better audio drivers, wireless connectivity, and advanced audio technologies like 3D sound and surround sound. While these features can improve your gaming experience, they are not essential for everyone. A gaming headset around $50 can still provide satisfactory performance for basic gaming needs.

Are budget gaming headsets good for live game streaming?

Budget gaming headsets are not ideal for live game streaming due to their often subpar microphone quality. While they may suffice for in-game communication, streaming to a larger audience requires a dedicated streaming microphone for better audio quality and clarity.

When do gaming headsets go on sale?

If you're looking to buy a gaming headset at a discount, consider shopping during Amazon Prime Day in July or during the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales in November. These are prime times to find deals on popular budget gaming headset brands like Logitech and Turtle Beach.