Top Affordable Gaming Headsets to Buy Now

Not all the best gaming headsets need to break the bank. There are plenty of affordable options that offer impressive sound quality, durability, and features to enhance your gaming experience. For instance, the Sony Pulse 3D provides high-quality sound and a robust build, perfect for diving deep into your favorite games. Whether you're looking for wireless freedom, multi-platform compatibility, or immersive surround sound, there's a budget-friendly gaming headset tailored to your needs.

TL;DR – These are the Best Budget Gaming Headsets:

### Sony Pulse 3D

7Experience the immersive Tempest 3D audio designed for the PS5, yet compatible with various devices. Enjoy crisp, vibrant sound that pulls you into the action.
See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Target### Corsair HS65 Surround

2Get 7.1 surround sound for a realistic and wide soundscape at an affordable price. Ideal for gamers seeking enhanced audio without breaking the bank.
See it at Amazon### HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

2A lightweight, comfortable option with a rich soundstage, perfect for gamers on a tight budget.
See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Target### Astro A10

2A durable, budget-friendly headset delivering big, dynamic sound across multiple platforms.
See it at Amazon### Turtle Beach Recon 50

2An ultra-affordable option with decent audio and a microphone, suitable for any gaming setup.
See it at AmazonBudget gaming headsets may not include all the bells and whistles of premium models, such as advanced noise-canceling or swappable batteries. However, they provide a satisfying and immersive listening experience, ensuring you stay connected to your gaming PC, consoles, and other devices.

Explore our top nine budget-friendly picks, and check them out in the UK here. You might snag a fantastic deal on these already economical options or consider the best gaming earbuds for portable gaming.

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 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, Mobile InterfaceWireless, WiredConnections2.4GHz wireless USB dongle, 3.5mmDrivers40mm NeodymiumFrequency Response20Hz - 20,000HzSurround Sound ModesTempest 3DBattery Life12 hoursWeight295gPROSImmersive Tempest 3D spatial audioComfortable fitCONSLimited battery lifeThe Sony Pulse 3D headset enhances your gaming experience with the PS5's Tempest 3D audio technology, offering an immersive soundscape at a surprisingly affordable price of $99.99. Its crisp, vibrant sound transports you into the heart of the game, while the positional audio adds an extra layer of immersion. Although the battery life could be better, it's sufficient for extended gaming sessions. Its versatility extends beyond the PS5, making it compatible with PS4, gaming PCs, and Macs via the included USB dongle.

Corsair HS65 Wireless – Photos

11 Images2. Corsair HS65 Surround

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $70

### Corsair HS65 Surround

2This budget-friendly headset delivers 7.1 surround sound for a wide and realistic soundscape, perfect for gamers seeking quality without breaking the bank.
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 tight for someThe Corsair HS65 Surround provides a fantastic wired option under $80, offering plug-and-play simplicity via a 3.5mm jack, and 7.1 surround sound via USB. Its neutral sound profile and superb directional audio help you pinpoint in-game sounds. Despite the tight headband for some users, its focus on sound and comfort, without unnecessary frills, makes it a solid choice.

HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 – Photos

7 Images3. HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $50

### HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

2This wired headset offers good audio quality with a rich, layered soundstage at a budget-friendly price, perfect for gamers looking for affordability without sacrificing sound.
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 buildThe HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 offers impressive sound quality for under $50, thanks to its 50mm drivers. Its plastic build keeps costs down while still providing comfort for long gaming sessions. Although it lacks advanced features and software support, it's an excellent choice for those prioritizing sound quality on a budget.

4. Astro A10

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $40

### Astro A10

2A durable and affordable wired headset that delivers big, dynamic sound across multiple platforms, ideal 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 offers a solid performance and comfort at a budget-friendly price. Its sturdy build, featuring an aluminum frame, and cushioned ear cups ensure durability and comfort. While it's a bit heavy, the big, dynamic sound and in-line volume control make it a great choice for gamers on a tight budget.

5. Turtle Beach Recon 50

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $30

### Turtle Beach Recon 50

2The Turtle Beach Recon 50 is an ultra-affordable option that works well across various platforms, though it compromises on bass.
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 budget-friendly headset that offers decent performance for its price. While it lacks premium features like surround sound, it delivers satisfactory audio and a clear microphone. Its lightweight design and multi-platform compatibility make it a versatile choice, though the sound quality may not satisfy those seeking rich bass.

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 affordable prices. From the highly recommended Sony Pulse 3D for PS5 to the budget-friendly Turtle Beach Recon 70, there's a headset for every gamer. If you 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 generally, $100 is the upper limit. At this price, you can expect good sound and a decent microphone, though some premium features may be absent. Below $50, you'll encounter more compromises, such as the absence of virtual surround sound and less durable builds. For the absolute cheapest options around $20-$30, expect basic functionality with reduced audio quality and build strength.

Budget Gaming Headset FAQ

Are gaming headsets good for listening to music?

Gaming headsets can be used for music, but they are typically optimized for gaming audio cues rather than music. While high-end models like the Audeze Maxwell offer decent music quality, most budget headsets lack the balance and warmth found in dedicated headphones or earbuds.

Do expensive gaming headsets really make a difference?

Expensive gaming headsets can offer better audio quality and additional features like wireless connectivity and advanced sound technologies. However, for basic gaming and communication needs, a $50 headset can be sufficient.

Are budget gaming headsets good for live game streaming?

Budget gaming headsets may not be ideal for live streaming due to their often subpar microphones. For streaming, consider investing in a dedicated streaming microphone to ensure better audio quality.

When do gaming headsets go on sale?

The best times to find gaming headsets on sale are during Amazon Prime Day in July and the Black Friday/Cyber Monday period, where you can snag deals on popular brands like Logitech and Turtle Beach.