Not all of the best gaming headsets require a heavy investment. There are plenty of budget-friendly options, like the Sony Pulse 3D, that offer excellent sound quality, solid build materials, and features that can elevate your gaming experience. Whether you're looking for wireless connectivity, cross-platform compatibility, or immersive surround sound, there’s an affordable headset out there that fits your needs without breaking the bank.
TL;DR – Top Budget Gaming Headsets:
### 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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While budget gaming headsets may not include premium features like advanced noise cancellation or modular battery systems found in the best high-end gaming headsets, they still provide a satisfying audio experience and reliable connectivity across your gaming PC, consoles, and other devices. So why spend more when you can get great performance for less?
Check out our top nine picks below — all available for less than you might expect. You might even catch a special deal to bring the price down further. Or if portability is your priority, consider grabbing a pair of the best gaming earbuds instead.
Contributions by Danielle Abraham, Georgie Peru and Michelle Rae Uy
Sony Pulse 3D Wireless Headset Review
1. Sony Pulse 3D
Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $100
### Sony Pulse 3D
Designed for the PS5 but compatible with many other devices, this affordable headset offers 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
When the PlayStation 5 launched, it introduced several innovations, including its proprietary Tempest 3D audio technology. The Sony Pulse 3D was designed to take full advantage of this, delivering a deeply immersive soundscape. At just under $100, it's an exceptional value for a first-party accessory.
The Pulse 3D delivers crisp, dynamic audio with impressive directional accuracy thanks to its Tempest 3D support. While the battery life isn’t the longest, it’s more than sufficient for extended play sessions. Though primarily built for the PS5, the headset is also compatible with PS4, PC, and Mac via the included USB dongle.
2. Corsair HS65 Surround
Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $70
### Corsair HS65 Surround
This headset offers 7.1 surround sound for a wide and realistic 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 users
The Corsair HS65 Surround brings premium-level 7.1 surround sound to budget-conscious gamers. With both 3.5mm and USB connectivity, it's versatile enough for multiple platforms. Its neutral sound signature helps with in-game awareness, especially in competitive titles.
While the headband may feel tight on larger heads, the soft memory foam earcups ensure long-term comfort during extended gameplay. It lacks onboard controls beyond a volume dial and mute switch, making it ideal for those who prefer simplicity.
3. HyperX Cloud Stinger 2
Best Budget Gaming Headset Under $50
### HyperX Cloud Stinger 2
A low-cost wired headset that delivers rich, layered
