Top Affordable Gaming Headsets Still Worth Purchasing

Not all the best gaming headsets need to break the bank. You can find plenty of budget-friendly options, like the Sony Pulse 3D, that offer high-quality sound, a durable build, and a range of features you'll appreciate during intense gaming sessions. Whether you're looking for wireless freedom, compatibility across multiple platforms, or immersive surround sound, there's an affordable 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 include all the premium features found in best high-end gaming headsets, such as advanced noise cancellation or swappable batteries, they still provide a satisfying, immersive audio experience and reliable connectivity with your gaming PC, consoles, and other devices. What more could you ask for?

Check out our top nine affordable picks, and explore them in the UK here. You might snag an amazing deal on these already budget-friendly options, or perhaps find the best gaming earbuds for a more portable gaming solution.

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 versatile enough to work with many other devices, this budget-friendly headset delivers 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. 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 lifeWhen the PlayStation 5 launched, it introduced its innovative spatial audio technology known as Tempest 3D. A headset that can fully utilize the PS5's audio capabilities is essential for an immersive gaming experience. Our hands-on review of the Sony Pulse 3D demonstrates its capability to do just that, while being surprisingly affordable at $99.99—a steal for a first-party accessory.

The sound quality is crisp, vibrant, and spacious, placing you directly in the center of the action. Tempest 3D's positional audio enhances immersion in ways that standard headphones can't. While the battery life is adequate for long gaming sessions, the Pulse 3D's versatility extends beyond the PS5. Thanks to its USB dongle, you can connect it to a PS5 Pro, PS4, gaming PC, or Mac, as long as you have a USB port.

Corsair HS65 Wireless – Photos

11 Images2. Corsair HS65 Surround

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $70

### Corsair HS65 Surround

2This headset provides 7.1 surround sound for a broad and realistic soundscape at a wallet-friendly price. Immerse yourself in the game with clear, directional audio that helps you locate in-game sounds with precision. 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 can be tight for someCorsair offers an impressive wired headset under $80 with the HS65 Surround. This plug-and-play headset connects via a 3.5mm jack, and when connected over USB, it delivers 7.1 surround sound for an expansive, lifelike audio environment. Its neutral sound profile and excellent directional audio help you pinpoint enemy locations in-game. Being tethered to your gaming setup is a small trade-off for the superior sound quality these headphones provide.

Our hands-on testing confirmed that the Corsair HS65 Surround prioritizes sound and comfort over unnecessary features. The audio is delivered through two 50mm drivers nestled in soft memory foam earcups. The construction uses a blend of quality plastic and aluminum, though some users might find the headband a bit snug. The design is clean, featuring just a volume dial and a flip-to-mute microphone on the non-detachable mic. For more advanced sound adjustments, 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 budget-friendly wired headset features a primarily plastic build but still delivers good audio quality with a rich, layered soundstage. Enjoy clear sound without breaking the bank. 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 buildOur testing of the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 shows it's a standout choice under $50. Its wired design keeps costs down while maintaining versatility with a 3.5mm plug-and-play connection. The plastic construction is evident, but it's solid and comfortable, perfect for extended gaming sessions.

Despite its cost-saving design, the 50mm drivers produce a surprisingly rich, layered soundstage. However, audio customization is limited without software support. The headset is minimalistic, lacking features like RGB lighting or extensive on-ear controls, making it ideal for those seeking solid sound at a budget-friendly price.

4. Astro A10

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $40

### Astro A10

2This durable, ultra-affordable gaming headset focuses on delivering big, dynamic sound without the frills. Enjoy a robust build and comfortable wear at a bargain price. 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 performance and comfort at a wallet-friendly price. Though an older model, it remains a solid choice at around $40 or less, featuring an aluminum frame under the plastic headband for durability and well-cushioned ear cups for comfort.

As a wired headset, it uses a 3.5mm jack for universal connectivity, with an in-line volume control for easy adjustments. Its 40mm drivers produce big, dynamic sound with good separation, and the flip-to-mute microphone ensures clear communication with teammates. However, like other budget options, it lacks customization options.

5. Turtle Beach Recon 50

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $30

### Turtle Beach Recon 50

2The ultra-affordable Turtle Beach Recon 50 offers a range of color options and broad console compatibility. Enjoy basic but functional audio at a minimal cost. 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 a lesson in budget compromises. While it lacks premium features like surround sound, it still works well for its price. Our hands-on review found its 40mm drivers to be adequate, and the microphone is surprisingly clear for the cost. However, bass reproduction is weak, so don't expect cinematic explosions.

Available in multiple colorways, each representing different gaming platforms, this headset is versatile due to its 3.5mm audio jack compatibility. Choose your favorite color and use it with any device, from Xbox to PS5.

Where to Get the Best Budget Gaming Headsets in the UK

Finding the perfect gaming headset can be a dream come true, and you don't need to spend a fortune. Every headset on this list is available in the UK at a reasonable price. Whether you prefer the SteelSeries Arctis 1 or the budget-friendly Turtle Beach Recon 70, there's a headset waiting for you. Can't find them 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, you shouldn't spend more than $100. At this price, you can expect great sound and a decent microphone, though you might miss out on some advanced features found in higher-end models.

Below $50, you'll start noticing compromises. Features like virtual surround sound and 3D audio are often the first to go. Many headsets at this price point use less durable plastic, which may not last long. If you're spending $50 or less, expect to replace your headset within a year.

For the absolute lowest cost, gaming headsets around $20-$30 are the minimum I'd recommend. These will lack in build quality and audio clarity, but they're still functional enough for basic gaming and communication without a terrible microphone.

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 have bass-heavy, muddied sound due to the added technology like microphones and controls. Gaming headsets prioritize a wide soundstage and surround sound for in-game cues, whereas music benefits more from stereo sound. High-end gaming headsets like the Audeze Maxwell can offer a decent music experience, but for most users, wireless headphones or earbuds are better suited for music.

Do expensive gaming headsets really make a difference?

To a certain extent, yes. More expensive gaming headsets often come with superior audio drivers and additional features like wireless connectivity, 3D audio, and surround sound. However, these features aren't essential for basic gaming and communication, as any $50 gaming headset can suffice for those needs.

Are budget gaming headsets good for live game streaming?

Not typically. Budget gaming headsets often have subpar microphones, which may be adequate for in-game chat but not for streaming to a wider audience. For streaming, a dedicated streaming microphone offers better sound quality and control, enhancing your stream's audio without driving viewers away.

When do gaming headsets go on sale?

If you're looking to buy a budget gaming headset at a discount, consider shopping during Amazon Prime Day in July, which often features deals on brands like Logitech and Turtle Beach. The best time for tech deals, including gaming headsets, is during Black Friday and Cyber Monday.