The Best Cheap Gaming Headsets That Are Still Worth Buying

You don't need to break the bank for a fantastic gaming headset. Many affordable options, like the Sony Pulse 3D, offer impressive sound quality, durable construction, and a range of desirable features to enhance your gaming experience. Whether you prioritize wireless freedom, multi-platform compatibility, or immersive surround sound, there's a budget-friendly headset to suit your needs.

TL;DR – Top Budget Gaming Headsets:

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Sony Pulse 3D

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Corsair HS65 Surround

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HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

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Astro A10

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Turtle Beach Recon 50

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Budget gaming headsets may not boast all the premium features of high-end models, such as advanced noise cancellation or hot-swappable batteries. However, they still deliver enjoyable, immersive audio and reliable connectivity across various devices, including gaming PCs and consoles. What more could you ask for?

Explore our top nine picks, all available at surprisingly affordable prices—and check out UK options here. You might even snag a fantastic deal on these already budget-friendly options! Or consider the best gaming earbuds for on-the-go convenience.

*Contributions by Danielle Abraham, Georgie Peru and Michelle Rae Uy*

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Sony Pulse 3D Wireless Headset Review

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1. Sony Pulse 3D: Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $100

Sony Pulse 3D

Designed for PS5 but compatible with numerous devices, this affordable headset delivers 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 Tempest 3D audio, and this headset leverages it perfectly. Its crisp, vibrant, and spacious sound, along with the positional audio, creates an incredibly immersive experience. While battery life is moderate, it's sufficient for extended gaming sessions. Despite its PS5 origins, its versatility extends to PS4, PC, and Mac via the USB dongle.

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2. Corsair HS65 Surround: Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $70

Corsair HS65 Surround

This headset delivers 7.1 surround sound for a realistic, expansive 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 tight for some

The Corsair HS65 Surround prioritizes sound and comfort. Its 50mm drivers produce neutral sound with excellent directional audio. While the design is minimalistic, some users might find the headband slightly tight. Sound adjustments can be made via iCue software.

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3. HyperX Cloud Stinger 2: Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $50

HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

This low-cost wired headset, while lacking in features, delivers surprisingly good audio quality with a rich 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

Despite its affordable price point, the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 boasts impressive sound quality and a rich soundstage. While lacking extensive features and constructed primarily of plastic, it remains a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers.

4. Astro A10: Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $40

Astro A10

A durable, inexpensive headset that prioritizes big, dynamic sound while foregoing extra features.

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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 offers a surprisingly sturdy build and delivers big, dynamic sound for its price. Its 3.5mm connection ensures broad compatibility, and the inline volume control adds convenience. While lacking customization options, it's a solid, reliable option.

5. Turtle Beach Recon 50: Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $30

Turtle Beach Recon 50

The ultra-affordable Turtle Beach Recon 50 is available in various colors and works seamlessly with multiple consoles.

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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

While the Turtle Beach Recon 50 makes compromises due to its extremely low price, it offers functional performance. Its 40mm drivers provide acceptable sound, and the microphone is surprisingly clear. However, bass response is limited, and build quality reflects the price point.

Where to Find Budget Gaming Headsets in the UK

Finding the perfect gaming headset shouldn't require a huge investment. All headsets reviewed here are available in the UK at reasonable prices. Whether you prefer the SteelSeries Arctis 1 or the affordable Turtle Beach Recon 70, there's a headset waiting for you. Don't see your preferred headset below? Click here.

Sony Pulse 3D
Best Budget PS5 Gaming Headset
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Corsair HS70 Pro Gaming Headset
Best Budget Wireless Gaming Headset
£99.99 save 1% £98.99 at Amazon

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3
£90.91 at Amazon

Logitech G435 Lightspeed
Wireless Audio on the Cheap
£56.79 at Amazon

HYPERX 519T1AA Cloud Stinger 2
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How Much Should You Spend on a Budget Gaming Headset?

The definition of "budget" varies, but $100 generally marks the upper limit. At this price, expect good sound and a decent microphone, though some advanced features might be absent. Below $50, compromises are more apparent, with features like virtual surround sound often omitted, and build quality may suffer. Under $50 headsets may have a shorter lifespan. For the absolute lowest price, headsets in the $20-$30 range are the minimum recommended, but expect significant compromises in build quality and audio performance.

Budget Gaming Headset FAQ

Are gaming headsets good for listening to music?

Generally, no. Similarly priced headphones usually offer clearer, more balanced sound than gaming headsets, which often prioritize bass and a wider soundstage. High-end gaming headsets can provide a decent music experience, but dedicated headphones or earbuds are typically better for music listening.

Do expensive gaming headsets really make a difference?

To a degree. Higher-priced headsets offer better audio drivers and features like wireless connectivity, 3D audio, and surround sound. However, these features aren't essential for basic gaming needs; a $50 headset is sufficient for many users.

Are budget gaming headsets good for live game streaming?

Not usually. Budget gaming headset microphones are often subpar for streaming. A dedicated streaming microphone is recommended for better audio quality and a professional presentation.

When do gaming headsets go on sale?

Amazon Prime Day (July), Black Friday, and Cyber Monday typically offer significant discounts on gaming headsets.