It’s easy to overspend on gaming headsets, with prices soaring to well over $200 for premium features such as companion apps, long battery life, and high-end drivers. But if you’re working on a budget, there’s no need to break the bank. Budget gaming headsets that clock in under $100 are typically perfectly suited for casual gamers, and unless you’re trying to go pro, there’s no need to inflate your budget.
Razer BlackShark V2 X
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1
Razer Kaira X
Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
Corsair HS55 Stereo Gaming Headset
Best Overall Budget Gaming Headset:Razer BlackShark V2 X
Razer is known for producing expensive gaming gear, but theBlackShark V2 Xis a bit different. Clocking in at well under $100, it’s an anomaly in the Razer catalog. But despite the low price, it still carries tons of premium features—along with a striking design that’s reminiscent of the pricey BlackShark V2.
With a universal wired connection, the headset works across PC, PS5, Switch, and Xbox. You also get 50mm drivers that produce booming sound and foam earcups that are great for extended play sessions. Coupled with its cardioid microphone that helps eliminate ambient sound, you’ve got a well-rounded headset that’s perfect for online gaming.
The Razer BlackShark V2 X is stylish, boasts booming 50mm drivers, and offers the usual Razer quality at a surprisingly great price.
Best Budget Gaming Headset for Switch:SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1
The biggest selling point of theArctis Nova 1is its support for spatial audio, which lets you hear pinpoint-accurate sounds in all directions. Whether an enemy is sneaking up behind you or gunshots are ringing out in the distance, you’ll hear all the sounds in incredible detail. That makes it great for competitive gaming and gives you an edge over the competition.
On the Switch, the Arctis Nova 1 can connect via its wired 3.5mm audio jack. It benefits from onboard controls for volume adjustment and for muting your audio and comes with a retractable microphone that can mute background noise by 25dB for enhanced communication.
With support for spatial audio, impressive noise canceling skills, and a universal 3.5mm audio jack, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 is a great fit for the Nintendo Switch.
Best Budget Gaming Headset for PS5:Razer Kaira X
Built to mimic the colors of your PS5 console, theRazer Kaira X Wiredlooks like a first-party headset developed by PlayStation. Razer didn’t cut many corners with the Kaira X Wired, though its noise canceling skills aren’t quite as robust as headsets in a higher price bracket.
Aside from that caveat, there’s a lot to love about the budget-friendly gadget. Along with its cool design, you’ll get 50mm drivers for impressive audio, plush memory foam ear cushions, and a built-in volume slider and mute button. Best of all, it’s officially licensed by Sony, ensuring it’ll work flawlessly with your PS5.
The Razer Kaira X takes plenty of design cues from PS5, and with 50mm drivers and a HyperClear cardioid microphone, it’s a stylish option for frugal shoppers.
Best Budget Gaming Headset for Xbox Series X:Microsoft Xbox Stereo Headset
Built by Microsoft, it’s no surprise that theXbox Stereo Headsetworks flawlessly with Xbox Series X. It’s not as fancy as its wireless counterpart, but this wired version is just as great at pumping out incredible audio. Whether it’s booming explosions or muted footsteps, the Xbox Stereo Headset provides a rich, directional sound that enhances almost every game.
Inside the sleek headset, you’ll find 40mm drivers and hardware that supports Dolby Atmos. That’s the big selling point of this budget headset, as Atmos is typically reserved for products in a much higher price bracket. Microsoft didn’t cut corners for comfort either, with soft, oversized earcups that are still light enough to support long game sessions. There aren’t a lot of ways to adjust the fit of the headset, and there are no alternative designs, but those are minor compromises on an otherwise well-rounded product.
With a minimalist design and support for Dolby Atmos, this wired headset punches well above its price tag and is purpose-built to work well with the Xbox Series X.
Best for Budget Gaming Headset for PC:Corsair HS55 Stereo Gaming Headset
TheCorsair HS55is a great budget headset for the PCs. However, it’s also versatile enough to work with most other platforms, including Mac, PS5, Xbox Series X, and Switch, making it extra enticing for gamers with both a gaming PC and console. Aside from this versatility, it benefits from plush memory foam ear cups, booming 50mm drivers, and crisp audio that is Discord Certified.
Corsair also tried to keep the weight down on the HS55, as it clocks in at just 273 grams, making it one of the lightest headsets at this price point. But despite this weight, the headphones look a bit clunky, and since the microphone isn’t detachable, you’ll need to leave it in place even if you’re playing solo.
The Corsair HS55 is lightweight, offers oversized, plush earcups, and is Discord Certified for its crisp sound.
Q: Do expensive gaming headsets make a difference?
Expensive gaming headsets may offer better noise canceling and clearer microphones, but they’re not always a smart investment. Budget headsets are more than suitable for most gamers, though professional streamers may want to pick up something more robust.
Q: Can I use a gaming headset for video and voice calls?
This varies from headset to headset. If it can connect to your PC or smartphone, it’ll typically work for video and voice calls. Be sure to check the details of each product for more information.
Q: Can I use a normal headset for gaming?
If your “normal” headset can connect to your console or PC, there’s nothing stopping you from gaming with them. They may lack useful features like noise canceling or other adjustable settings, so consider picking up a true gaming headset if you jump online often.
Q: How long do wireless gaming headset batteries usually last?
Most wireless gaming headset batteries run for about 20 hours before needing a recharge, though more expensive products can last well over 40.
Q: Do I need Bluetooth to use a wireless gaming headset?
Not always. Look at the details for your prospective product, as some use a USB receiver instead of Bluetooth to make their wireless connection.
