The Best Budget Gaming Headset: everyone who considers themselves an avid player, dreams of building a perfect setup. It consists of numerous details and none should be missed. One of the most crucial parts is computer headphones that fit a user flawlessly. An experienced person will never deny the importance of this peripheral.
On top of it, the constantly developing market offers a great variety of them. They differ in quality, price, and gaming brand that designs the rig. The following top list specializes in those that are in a budget-oriented segment.
It doesn’t always mean they’re worse in all aspects. In fact, it often happens that a cheap gaming headset provides solid performance. Some alternatives don’t even come up to $50-70. One can’t expect too much for the stated money.
Luckily, the peripheral sphere develops so quickly that the competition is as strong as ever. Even the most famous manufacturers now offer decent gadgets for a relatively low sum. Besides, they look no worse than their expensive counterparts do. One can say the same about the specifications and overall performance.
The presented top list includes the most noteworthy options for reasonable money. It won’t let one build a cheap gaming PC under $100 or create another miracle. Though, it’s an amazing helping hand to finalize one’s setup and wholly enjoy it.
10. Trust Carus GXT 323W: Wired Gaming Headphones with Microphone for PC, PS and Xbox – Don’t Expect Much
Type: | Wired |
Frequency Response: | 20Hz-20KHz |
Driver Size: | 50mm |
Cord Length: | 3.9 ft |
Weight: | 10.5 oz |
Trust Carus GXT 323W: Despite being designed by a less famous manufacturer, this candidate deserves its place here. It doesn’t have too many overwhelming features but attracts prospective customers with its price. This isn’t easy to find headphones for PS4 with a mic for such a sum. Other aspects of this item could be presented in a better way.
Starting with the positive sides, the model has an eye-catching look. This design definitely reminds a PS5 style. Besides, this peripheral is compatible not only with PCs but with all modern consoles.
The reviewed gaming headset with a mic starts at around $30 on Amazon, which is extremely affordable. Additionally, one gets 50mm drivers for this cost. Of course, the sound doesn’t seem too clear and punchy but it’s okay.
Unfortunately, this unit is far from perfect having a range of serious downsides. To begin with, it doesn’t fit one’s head tight enough. This leads to noticeable sound leakage. The overall build quality is also flimsy and unreliable. Every detail is made of plastic and feels cheap.
9. Corsair HS60 Haptic: Gaming Headset with Haptic Bass, Memory Foam Earcups, Removable Microphone – A Bit Out Of Category
Type: | Wired |
Frequency Response: | 20Hz-20KHz |
Driver Size: | 50mm |
Cord Length: | 5.9 ft |
Weight: | 14.8 oz |
Corsair HS60 Haptic: this massive beast has the edge over its siblings in many factors. To begin with, it boasts a haptic technology, which is considered a top-notch feature. It’s rarely seen and only true gamer headphones have them. It’s created to provide deeper immersion in action titles.
At the same time, a prospective customer will pay over $85 on Amazon for this gimmick. If this seems too expensive for a particular user, remember about the unique feature added.
Other positive moments include a reliable build, which is definitely a plus. It fits any head perfectly and there’s no sound leakage problem. These Corsair gaming earbuds with a mic sound decent enough to communicate with friends. Though, don’t expect a miracle from this built-in feature.
Coming down to the weak points, this model is particularly heavy. This is mainly because of the haptic technology. However, it has no interesting gimmicks for the money asked. Therefore, if one doesn’t really need it, there’s no sense to overpay for it.
This is also a computer headset with a mic that doesn’t work with consoles. Its use is restricted to a desktop machine only. Finally, it has camouflage styling, which isn’t to everyone’s taste. One has to accept this coloring without any chance of changing.
8. Astro A10: Headset for Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PS4, PC and Mac – Wired and Boom Mic by Logitech – The Cheapest Gaming Headset
Type: | Wired |
Frequency Response: | 20Hz-20KHz |
Driver Size: | 40mm |
Cord Length: | 6.5 ft |
Weight: | 12.8 oz |
Astro A10: this manufacturer is more famous for pricier alternatives but this particular item is an exclusion. Those users who have a bigger budget can opt for A40 or A50. However, this model deserves the title of the good headsets for the following reasons.
To begin with, one can get them for about $30 on Amazon, which is more than affordable. For this money, one buys a sleek design and decent sound quality. Despite having 40mm drivers, they do more than expected.
Other upsides include its all-around compatibility meaning a user can plug it into any device. Unlike other options, this one has a quite long cord. It will be equally enough for a desktop machine and a console. This is also a headset for a computer with a microphone working clearly. Its sound transmission could be better but one can’t complain about it for this sum.
The most obvious weak points are the ear cups form. They may seem too tight and small for people with bigger heads. Besides, the build construction doesn’t seem too reliable. Though, it looks stylish and up to date. Finally, the driver size doesn’t allow it to transmit bass too well.
7. Logitech G435 Lightspeed: Lightweight over-ear Headphones, Built-in mics, 18h Battery – The $55 Value
Type: | Wired |
Frequency Response: | 20Hz-20KHz |
Driver Size: | 40mm |
Cord Length: | None |
Weight: | 5.8 oz |
Logitech G435 Lightspeed: at first sight, this model seems a bit childish and too colorful. However, don’t treat it this way because this tiny beast is capable of more. Beginning with the bright sides, it’s extremely lightweight and wireless. Unlike many other alternatives, these gaming headphones work with PS4 with no problems. Besides, they require no additional software to connect.
Other positive points include Dolby Atmos, which provides a better immersion. Despite its diminutive size, it can stay up to 18 hours with no charger attached.
Additionally, it features a serviceable microphone. It can’t boast the supreme quality but will do fine for a friendly chat. It’s good to have a Logitech headset with a mic for a PC working with consoles.
Speaking of the negative moments, it goes slightly above the budget category. Not all prospective customers are ready to spend $55 on it. Though, this cost is explainable and acceptable.
Unlike other Logitech headsets, this option is still affordable. Nonetheless, it doesn’t seem too reliable and is fully made of plastic. On top of it, this variant fits people with smaller heads.
6. Turtle Beach Recon 70: PlayStation Gaming Headset 2022 for PS4/5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Mobile, PC – It Can’t Be Cheaper
Type: | Wired |
Frequency Response: | 20Hz-20KHz |
Driver Size: | 40mm |
Cord Length: | 3.9 ft |
Weight: | 16.7 oz |
Turtle Beach Recon 70: it seems that for the stated cost of $40 one can’t expect more. In fact, this manufacturer has done everything to design a solid contender. At first sight, this is a typical Xbox stereo headset but let’s get deeper. Don’t get deluded because this device attracts not only with its price.
Yes, this peripheral’s main use is linked with consoles. However, no one says it doesn’t function with other platforms. It works just fine even with a phone, not to mention a desktop machine.
Starting with the positive sides, it has extremely comfortable earmuffs. They perfectly fit any head size and one never gets tired despite 16.7 oz weight. Of course, it would be a mistake to expect surrounding sound for this money. However, the gadget provides serviceable highs and bass. The mic does okay to use it during a friendly chat. If one needs a PS4 microphone at an almost-free cost, this is the way out.
Speaking of the weak points, it’s made of cheap details and materials. Besides, it’s not likely to survive a random fall. A lot of customers complain about dull bass but that’s expectable for 40mm drivers. Though, one can consider purchasing this gadget for daily usage just because of the cost.
5. Xbox Wireless Headset 2023: Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One – It Speaks for Itself
Type: | Wired |
Frequency Response: | 20Hz-20KHz |
Driver Size: | 40mm |
Cord Length: | None |
Weight: | 11.0 oz |
Xbox Wireless Headset: one can’t say that there are many decent alternatives like this rig on the market. It manages to combine everything from a sleek design to impressive specifications. Additionally, it tries to remain within budget but slightly gets out of the category. Though, it certainly deserves the title of gaming headphones with everything it offers.
Judging by its name, it perfectly fits Xbox, especially the one of the last-gen. It can connect to the station wirelessly and requires no dongles. Besides, one can change the settings with a remote controller.
It also sports Dolby Atmos for exceptional immersion and sound quality. This feature works with not only Xbox but also PC. Yes, the manufacturer has made it a computer gaming headset as well. So, don’t hesitate to use a special dongle to enjoy it on a stationary machine.
Coming down to the weak sides, it will never function with PS4 or other consoles. The reason for this is the absence of a 3.5mm jack.
This is an amazing wireless gaming Xbox One headset but with its own restrictions. It remains superb only on its platform and doesn’t shine outside. Finally, it has a $160 price on Amazon and is rarely seen on sale.
4. Razer Kraken X Ultralight: 7.1 Surround Sound, Aluminum Frame, Cardioid Microphone – The Best Gaming Headset Under $30
Type: | Wired |
Frequency Response: | 12Hz-28KHz |
Driver Size: | 40mm |
Cord Length: | 4.27 ft |
Weight: | 8.8 oz |
Razer Kraken X Ultralight: the Kraken series has been infamous for its price policy. Luckily, the manufacturer has paid attention and heard their fans. That’s why one can now enjoy the reviewed gadget at a surprisingly low cost. Retailing at $30 on Amazon, this is one of the biggest advantages of this peripheral. It’s a supreme choice of a gaming headset on Amazon or a similar marketplace.
Starting with the design, it represents the all-known look and comfort. The Razer ear cups fit any head perfectly and don’t make it sweat during gaming sessions.
Coming down to the sound quality, it has a 7.1 surround system. This is a surprise indeed considering the stated price. Other features include its all-around compatibility putting it on the PS4 headsets list.
Unlike many other contenders, it boasts a higher frequency response. Just look at the table and compare its results to the previous rivals.
Speaking of the weak points, its mic quality remains serviceable. The presented surround sound technology seems a bit subpar. However, one can’t expect more for the money asked. It may not be the best gaming headset for a PC but it’s worth the attention anyway.
3. HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless: 300-hour Battery Life, DTS Headphone X Spatial Audio 2022 With Noise Cancelling Mic – Strives To Perfection
Type: | Wired |
Frequency Response: | 13Hz-27KHz |
Driver Size: | 50mm |
Cord Length: | 6.5 ft |
Weight: | 11.8 oz |
HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless: one surely doesn’t expect to see a HyperX rig on this list. This manufacturer isn’t famous for producing game earphones at a low cost. However, they’ve managed to release a model that combines a stylish look and impressive specs. Let’s get deeper to see why it opens the top three.
A prospective buyer can hope to get it for $70 on Amazon, which seems frightening at first. Though, it’s often seen for $40-50, especially when on sale. In this case, it fits the budget category indeed.
Speaking of other positive sides, it transmits perfectly clear sound. It’s equally amazing in terms of mid-tones and bass. This is what HyperX headphones are usually famous for. It also boasts quite a long cord, which is a dream for many people. On top of it, this option works with any platform including consoles.
Coming to the weak points, it features dull lows. Being 11.8 oz, it often feels heavy on one’s head. Keep it in mind during long sessions to stay active.
2. Razer BlackShark V2 X: 7.1 Surround Sound, 50mm Drivers, Memory Foam Cushion – Almost the Winner
Type: | Wired |
Frequency Response: | 12Hz-28KHz |
Driver Size: | 50mm |
Cord Length: | 4.27 ft |
Weight: | 8.48 oz |
Razer BlackShark V2 X: unlike its pricier sibling, this model doesn’t sound and look that superb. However, it sports an extremely attractive cost of $59. Besides, one can get it at $40 on Amazon when browsing Amazon headsets available on sale.
This example features a number of positive sides. Despite being budget, its built-in microphone transmits one’s voice clearly. It’s surely good enough for a friendly chat or even streaming.
It may not be Razer wireless headset but it has other amazing qualities instead. For instance, it has THX spatial audio technology. It’s not common for a device at such a low cost. This system gives an advantage in any title for sure.
Being made of plastic doesn’t mean it’s going to crack any time. The manufacturer has done a great job of making it sturdy and reliable. It also feels light and doesn’t squeeze one’s head when wearing it too long. All thanks to soft ear cups filled with memory foam.
This peripheral has no serious downsides except for the next one. It lacks deeper noise cancelation. On top of it, the cord could definitely be longer. This can be especially uncomfortable for desktop machine users.
1. SteelSeries Arctis 1 – The Best Budget Gaming Headset for Gamers in 2023
Type: | Wired |
Frequency Response: | 20Hz-20KHz |
Driver Size: | 40mm |
Cord Length: | 9.84 ft |
Weight: | 9.5 oz |
SteelSeries Arctis 1: the Arctis line isn’t usually about being budget. Though, the manufacturer has realized the necessity of more affordable units like this one. That’s why it’s now possible to enjoy all the advantages of this range for $35 on Amazon. Just like pricier SteelSeries headphones, these are exceptionally impressive and performant.
To start with, this model is amazingly attractive in terms of the money asked. Despite looking cheap, it sports a reliable build and solid audio quality.
It’s equipped with 40mm drivers that deliver surprisingly clear sound. On top of it, this unit fits any head size tightly enough to immerse into a process. This is accompanied by all-around compatibility making it perfect for any platform. It can easily transform into an Xbox One headset if a customer wishes so.
Coming down to the microphone, don’t expect a miracle for this cost. Its biggest advantage is that one can detach it when necessary. As for the rest, it sounds serviceable to communicate with teammates while playing.
The Champion’s Weak Sides
It would be a lie to tell that this model is perfect in every aspect. Let’s look at its negative points to complain about. However, it’s actually nearly superb considering the money asked.
To begin with, it has a way too long cord. This may be useful if one’s lying on a sofa far from the TV set. Still, it’s 9.84 ft, which is really a lot for a desktop machine user.
Speaking of the technical side, it has no gimmicks like surround sound or anything. Though, it would be too much for this price. There’s no doubt that this is the best budget gaming headset available today. Buy it and enjoy it on a daily basis with no problems.
To Sum It Up
It’s quite difficult to purchase a model of one’s dream for a reasonable cost. Luckily, the market offers a truly wide range of products. They come from different manufacturers and brands. Some of them are extremely expensive but aren’t actually worth it.
This top list represents a selection of the most affordable editions. It will allow one to make the final decision about the gaming earbuds they want. Some of them are exclusively for consoles or desktop machines.
When a user buys a peripheral of this category, it’s not usually recommended to skimp. The reviewed contenders are actually good but they work only for amateurs. If one’s dream is to become a pro, look for a device retailing for $150-200.
Still, this list is full of the best wireless gaming headset doing great for their money. Pick any of them to immerse deeper in any titles one likes. Keep in mind that a higher price doesn’t always mean better quality.
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Comparison of Cheap Headsets by Specs and price
BUDGET GAMING HEADSETS | SPECIFICATIONS | BEST PRICE | RATING |
---|---|---|---|
Trust Carus GXT 323W | $30 | 8.7 | |
Corsair HS60 Haptic | $85 | 8.9 | |
Astro A10 | $30 | 9.0 | |
Logitech G435 Lightspeed | $55 | 9.1 | |
Turtle Beach Recon 70 | $40 | 9.3 | |
Xbox Wireless Headset 2022 | $160 | 9.4 | |
Razer Kraken X Ultralight | $30 | 9.5 | |
HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless | $70 | 9.6 | |
Razer BlackShark V2 X | $40 | 9.8 | |
SteelSeries Arctis 1 | $35 | 9.9 |
FAQ About The Best Budget Gaming Headset
It all depends on one’s preferences and available sum. Judging by the top list, the Arctis 1 deserves this title. However, if a user decides to purchase another item, there’s nothing wrong with it. Compare the specs, rate the design, and see for yourself.
If it concerns amateurs, they surely are. In fact, many affordable rigs are no worse than their pricier counterparts. The majority of them boast solid performance combined with a stylish overall look. The final choice depends on one’s taste.
All the reviewed contenders are worth the attention. Though, the Arctis 1 is the champion. It combines everything an avid player needs. Besides, it’s extremely cheap and often seen on sale. So, everyone can afford it for the stated cost of $35-40.
All the described rivals belong to this category. The choice depends on one’s preferences and brand. Even the most famous manufacturers now design and sell extremely inexpensive models. Just look at the last three competitors and purchase one of them.
No doubt, that’s a unique and catchy feature. However, it’s particularly difficult to find it presented at its best quality. Only a few cheap headphones have it. It doesn’t give any significant advantage, so don’t spend extra money in vain.