Not all the best gaming headsets need to break the bank. Affordable options like the Sony Pulse 3D offer impressive sound quality, durability, and a variety of features that enhance your gaming experience. Whether you're looking for wireless freedom, multi-platform support, or immersive surround sound, there's a budget-friendly gaming headset that meets your needs.

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

### Sony Pulse 3D

7Experience the immersive sound of the Sony Pulse 3D, designed for PS5 but compatible with multiple devices. Enjoy Tempest 3D audio for a detailed and engaging gaming experience.
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### Corsair HS65 Surround

2Get a wide and realistic soundscape with the Corsair HS65 Surround, offering 7.1 surround sound at a budget-friendly price.
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### HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

2Enjoy a rich, layered soundstage with the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2, a cost-effective wired headset with good audio quality.
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### Astro A10

2The Astro A10 delivers big, dynamic sound and a durable build, making it an excellent budget pick.
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### Turtle Beach Recon 50

2The Turtle Beach Recon 50 is super affordable and compatible with various platforms, offering decent audio for the price.
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While budget 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, they still provide an enjoyable and immersive listening experience. They are reliable for connecting to your gaming PC, consoles, and other devices, ensuring you stay in the game without breaking the bank.

Explore our top nine budget-friendly options, and check out availability in the UK [ttpp]. You might find an incredible deal on these already affordable headsets, or consider the best gaming earbuds for a more portable option.

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 for use with other devices, the Sony Pulse 3D offers Tempest 3D audio for an immersive sound experience.
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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 Sony Pulse 3D is crafted to enhance the audio experience of the PS5 with its Tempest 3D technology. Our hands-on review confirmed its capability to deliver crisp, vibrant, and spacious sound, fully immersing you in the game. Despite a modest battery life, it's sufficient for extended gaming sessions. Its versatility extends beyond the PS5, compatible with PS4, gaming PCs, and Macs through its USB dongle, making it a great value at $99.99.

Corsair HS65 Wireless – Photos

11 Images2. Corsair HS65 Surround

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $70

### Corsair HS65 Surround

2Experience 7.1 surround sound with the Corsair HS65 Surround, offering an immersive audio experience 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 is an excellent choice for gamers looking for quality sound without breaking the bank. It offers plug-and-play convenience with a 3.5mm jack and USB connectivity for 7.1 surround sound. The sound quality is neutral and directional, aiding in-game awareness. While the design is simple and comfortable, some may find the headband a bit tight.

HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 – Photos

7 Images3. HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $50

### HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

2The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 offers good audio quality and a rich soundstage in a budget-friendly, wired package.
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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

The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 is an affordable option that doesn't skimp on audio quality. Its wired design keeps costs down, but it offers a surprisingly rich soundstage. The lightweight, plastic build is comfortable for long sessions, though it lacks advanced features and software support.

In-line volume controller on Astro A104. Astro A10

Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $40

### Astro A10

2The Astro A10 provides big, dynamic sound and a durable build at a budget-friendly price.
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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 great performance and comfort for its price. Its sturdy build and well-cushioned ear cups make it a comfortable choice, while the 40mm drivers deliver dynamic sound. The wired design includes an in-line volume control, but lacks customization options.

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 with multiple consoles and offers decent audio.
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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

The Turtle Beach Recon 50 is a budget-friendly headset that offers basic functionality across multiple platforms. While it doesn't provide premium features like surround sound, it delivers adequate sound quality for its price. The microphone performs well for casual gaming, but the audio lacks strong bass.

Where to Get the Best Budget Gaming Headsets in the UK

Finding the perfect gaming headset doesn't have to be costly. All the headsets listed here are available in the UK at affordable prices. Whether you're interested in the SteelSeries Arctis 1 or the Turtle Beach Recon 70, there's a budget-friendly option for you. [ttpp]

### Sony Pulse 3D

4Best Budget PS5 Gaming Headset
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### 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 it

How Much Should I Spend on a Budget Gaming Headset?

The definition of a 'budget' gaming headset varies, but generally, spending up to $100 should get you good sound and a decent microphone, though you might miss out on some advanced features. Below $50, expect fewer features like virtual surround sound, and be prepared for less durable builds. At the lowest end, around $20 - $30, you'll find headsets with basic functionality and lower build quality, but they can still provide an adequate gaming experience.

Budget Gaming Headset FAQ

Are gaming headsets good for listening to music?

Generally, gaming headsets are not ideal for music listening. They often prioritize bass-heavy sound and a wide soundstage suited for gaming, which can muddy the audio for music. High-end gaming headsets like the Audeze Maxwell offer better music quality, but for the best experience, wireless headphones or earbuds are recommended.

Do expensive gaming headsets really make a difference?

Expensive gaming headsets can offer superior audio quality and additional features like wireless connectivity and advanced surround sound. However, for basic gaming needs, a $50 headset can suffice.

Are budget gaming headsets good for live game streaming?

Budget gaming headsets are not ideal for streaming due to inconsistent microphone quality. For better audio during streams, consider a dedicated streaming microphone for improved sound clarity and audience engagement.

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 season, where you can often find discounts on popular brands like Logitech and Turtle Beach.