Top Affordable Gaming Headsets Still Worth Purchasing

Not all the best gaming headsets need to break the bank. There are plenty of affordable options, such as the Sony Pulse 3D, which offer high-quality sound, durable construction, and a range of features that enhance your gaming experience. Whether you're looking for wireless freedom, compatibility across multiple platforms, 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

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 may not include all the premium features found in the best high-end gaming headsets, such as advanced noise-canceling or hot-swappable batteries. However, they still provide a satisfying, immersive audio experience and reliable connectivity to your gaming PC, consoles, and other devices. What more could you ask for?

Explore our top nine budget-friendly picks that offer more value than you might expect—and find them in the UK here. You might even snag a great deal on these already affordable options, or opt for the best gaming earbuds for a more portable 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 compatible with many other devices, this affordable headset offers Tempest 3D positional audio for detailed, immersive sound. 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 several advancements, including its proprietary spatial audio technology, Tempest 3D. Having a headset that maximizes the PS5's audio capabilities is essential for a truly immersive experience. Our hands-on review of the Sony Pulse 3D reveals that it not only delivers on this promise but does so at a surprisingly affordable price of $99.99, making it a cost-effective choice for a first-party peripheral.

The sound quality of the Sony Pulse 3D is crisp, vibrant, and expansive, placing you right in the heart of the action. The Tempest 3D positional audio enhances immersion, offering a level of detail that standard headphones can't match. Although the battery life could be better, it's sufficient for extended gaming sessions. While primarily designed for the PS5, the headset's versatility shines through with its wireless connectivity via a USB dongle, allowing use with PS4, gaming PCs, and Macs that have a USB port.

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. 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 someCorsair delivers an outstanding wired headset under $80 with the HS65 Surround. This plug-and-play headset connects to your devices via a 3.5mm jack, and over USB for 7.1 surround sound, providing an immersive and realistic audio experience. The headset offers neutral sound with excellent directional audio, aiding in pinpointing in-game enemy locations. Though tethered, the audio quality makes it worthwhile.

Our hands-on review of the Corsair HS65 Surround highlights its focus on sound and comfort, rather than unnecessary features. The audio is produced by two 50mm drivers within soft memory foam earcups. The headset's build combines quality plastic and aluminum for a sleek look, though some might find the headband a bit tight. It features a simple volume dial and a flip-to-mute microphone, with additional sound adjustments available through the iCue software.

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. 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 under $50, the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 offers impressive value. Its wired interface keeps costs down, and its plug-and-play nature ensures broad compatibility. The headset's plastic construction is evident, but it remains sturdy and lightweight, ideal for long gaming sessions.

Despite its budget design, the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2's 50mm drivers provide surprisingly good audio with a rich, layered soundstage. However, there's minimal software support for audio tweaking, and the headset lacks additional features like RGB lighting or extensive on-ear controls. It's perfect for gamers seeking solid sound at a wallet-friendly price.

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. 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 showcases its exceptional performance and comfort at an affordable price. While an older model, it still offers a sturdy build with an aluminum frame under the headband, and well-cushioned ear cups for prolonged comfort.

The Astro A10 connects via a 3.5mm jack, with in-line volume control for convenience. Its 40mm drivers deliver big, dynamic sound with decent separation, and a flip-to-mute microphone ensures clear communication with teammates. However, like other headsets in this price range, customization options are limited.

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. 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, while budget-friendly, requires some compromises. It doesn't offer premium features like surround sound or 3D audio, but it still functions well. Our review found its 40mm drivers provide adequate sound, and the microphone performs surprisingly well for the price, though the bass could be more robust.

Available in multiple colorways, each suggesting a different gaming platform, the Turtle Beach Recon 50 is versatile, connecting via a 3.5mm audio jack to any device, allowing you to use it with any console or gaming setup you prefer.

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 on our list are available in the UK at reasonable prices. Whether it's the top-rated SteelSeries Arctis 1 or the budget-friendly Turtle Beach Recon 70, there's a headset waiting for you. 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 $100 is typically 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 notice more compromises, such as the absence of virtual surround sound and 3D Audio. Headsets in this range often use less durable plastic, which may not last long. If you spend $50 or less, anticipate replacing your headset within a year.

For those aiming to spend the least, gaming headsets around $20 – $30 are the minimum I'd recommend. These ultra-budget options lack in build quality and audio fidelity, but they're sufficient for basic gaming needs and communication.

Budget Gaming Headset FAQ

Are gaming headsets good for listening to music?

While gaming headsets aren't typically designed for music, some high-end models like the Audeze Maxwell offer decent music listening thanks to superior drivers and adjustable EQ settings. Generally, though, headphones or earbuds provide a better music experience due to their focus on balanced sound.

Do expensive gaming headsets really make a difference?

Expensive gaming headsets can offer better audio quality and features like wireless connectivity and 3D audio. However, for basic gaming and communication, a $50 headset is often sufficient.

Are budget gaming headsets good for live game streaming?

Budget gaming headsets are not ideal for streaming due to their often subpar microphones. For streaming, a dedicated streaming microphone is recommended for superior audio quality.

When do gaming headsets go on sale?

The best times to buy gaming headsets at a discount are during Amazon Prime Day in July and the Black Friday/Cyber Monday period, when brands like Logitech and Turtle Beach often offer significant price reductions.