As a hardcore gamer, you’ve gone to great lengths to develop the best gaming rig. An ergonomic gaming chair you bought recently. That pretty cool gaming desk that’s not lasted long. Did we forget the UltraWide 4K gaming monitor with WQHD IPS LCD display that delivers show-stopping visuals?
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But do you have gaming headsets?
It doesn’t matter if you’re into PC gaming or console gaming. Gaming headsets are a must-have and especially so if you participate in multiplayer quests. How else do you communicate with your favorite gaming nerds without these? Headsets are integral in boosting your gaming experiences and are your best ally if you wish to catch the minutest gunfire, footsteps and sniff the enemy from miles away.
Even if you’re on a budget, you’ll find pretty quality headsets under $50/$100.
Features to Consider in Cheap Gaming Headsets
Purchasing gaming headsets isn’t as simple as just picking a set. There’s more to the exercise than you can image. Gaming headsets are of varied types and come with different features. Some are great for PC gaming, some work well with console gaming while others are okay on both platforms.
We prepared a comprehensive guide to help you find the best gaming headset compatible with your hardware. Even better, we’ve reviewed a couple of quality, and comfortable gaming headsets that we believe will provide you with immersive gaming experiences.
Build Quality
Considering that gaming headsets are used for extended durations, you’ll be doing yourself a disservice if don’t check the construction.
Even if on a budget, there are cheap gaming headset options out there build with durable materials like aluminum for the headband and pure leather for the ear cup. Such headsets are not only robust but also remarkably lightweight and comfortable.
The Microphone
Gaming headsets come complete with a mic and that’s how you tell between a headphone and a gaming headset. For hardcore gamers who participate in multiplayer games from time to time, a microphone is an integral feature.
If granted an opportunity to choose a headset with a microphone built into the earpiece and another set with a microphone arm, always go with the latter.
With a retractable microphone on the headset, then you have maximum control over it. Some gaming headsets also feature a detachable microphone. That way, you can use it when you need to communicate in-game with your gaming buddies.
What’s more, check that the microphone has an in-line controller so you can conveniently adjust the game and chat volume.
Connectivity Options/Wired or Wireless
As a gamer, you have access to a couple of connectivity options. Would you like to go wireless or do you still appreciate the wired sets? Each comes with its advantages and disadvantages.
Wireless gaming headsets use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and do not keep you tethered. If you have a wireless gaming headset, then you can stand and move about the room as you stretch those muscles without stopping the gameplay.
However, wireless headsets use batteries. It can get tedious and annoying to keep replacing or recharging the battery. But that shouldn’t scare you as some headsets come with batteries capable of lasting 10 hours and more. All you need to do is keep it recharged awaiting the next quest.
Not to mention that wireless headsets don’t always deliver consistent sound quality like the corded or wired headsets. But some headsets feature a workaround named AptX encoding that makes it possible for the sets to output sound with little to no quality deterioration while transmitting via Bluetooth.
PC gamers are better off with wired/corded gaming headsets which require no charging. And unless you’ll be alternating between PC gaming and console gaming, it’s not a must that you purchase wireless gaming headsets.
There are wired headsets that use the traditional audio 2.5mm/3.5mm jacks while other use USB. For the 2.5mm and 3.5mm jacks, make sure your computer has functional sound card integrated with the audio ports and drivers are up to date. A USB headset comes with a sound card already embedded in it.
Sound Quality
In buying headsets, you can either go with the stereo or surround sound. For gamers, surround sound headsets will deliver blasts, gunshots and even the slightest sounds in more depth and with minimal distractions.
Headset Controls
Excellent gaming headsets come with adjustable controls embedded on the sets. These controls are either right on the outer side of the ear cups or fitted on the headband. Controls come in handy in adjusting the sound as well as accomplishing other equally important tasks.
For example, some headset controls will allow you to switch between the chat and the game music. Others grant you the power to modulate your sound. And you achieve all that without the need to stop the game.
Headset Earcups
When buying your headsets, check the ear cups. For optimum comfort, the inner side of the ear cups should be built with a supple and soft material. Are they open or closed? Go for the gaming headsets with open ear cups if you want to keep your ears cools and also hear the surroundings without disturbing others too much.
Although the gaming headsets with closed ear cups may warm up your ears, they’re excellent if you don’t want to be distracted by the noise around or others to hear the gaming sounds. In short, they’re equipped with some sort of noise canceling technology.
Best Cheap Gaming Headset Under $50
1. Bengo X-40 Premium Gaming Headset
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
Bengo X-40 gaming headset packs an excellent lightweight design that you’ll love. Built with a skin-friendly leather material, the headset is durable and will be your excellent ally when participating in long hours of gaming into the dead of the night.
So that your ears don’t become itchy or sweat, the headset features superior and comfortable protein over-ear pads that allow proper airflow.
The headset also comes with a multipoint adjustable head beam with a soft cushion for the head that ensures maximum comfort so you can participate in the gaming quests for hours on end.
On both the right and left ear cups are sleek LED lights that put you into the game mode and highlight your gaming atmosphere. A USB interface supplies power to these LED lights.
What’s more, the headset comes integrated with a long microphone featuring a flexible design so you can adjust the angle when want to take a sip or even smoke a cigarette. The headset’s mic is omnidirectional and has a superior noise-canceling feature. It picks sounds to minutest details and eliminates the ambient noise ensuring communicate with significant clarity.
Bengo X-40 comes with a 49-Inch cable that features an in-line rotary volume controller as well as the microphone mute. Control the volume effortlessly to your preferred levels to avoid developing hearing problems. Something’s up? Just mute the mic in-game whenever you want without any hassle.
Featuring a surround sound stereo subwoofer, the headset outputs deep but clear brass while eliminating noise from the surrounding. The result is vividly clear sounds perfect for your games.
Functionality & Compatibility
Bengo X-40 boasts wide application and is compatible with visually any gaming device you can think about. For PC gaming, the headset supports PCs as well as laptops.
In to console gaming, this baby will work seamlessly with your PS4, Xbox One S, and Nintendo 3DS. It’s also compatible with smartphones and tablets.
Verdict
Bengo X-40 is an outstandingly solid wired gaming headset. The noise isolation feature is excellent if you’re in noisy surroundings. With the skin-friendly cushion on ears and headband, it’s gaming nonstop.
- Comfortable skin-friendly cushion for ear cups and headbands
- Multi-compatibility
- Adjustable mic with noise canceling
- Quality sound
- In-line volume control
2. Mpow EG3 Gaming Headset
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
Mpow EG3 Gaming Headset commands a metal lightweight and comfortable design perfect for extended gaming sessions.
The headset comes with an adjustable headband complete with unique tension controls so you can adjust the headset’s tightness to your preference for optimum comfort.
Also, the gaming headset features soft foam earbuds that do not only block annoying sounds from the surrounding but also allow air to permeate so your years stay cool.
EG3 Gaming Headset comes with a LED light that helps put you into the gaming mode and welcome a cool gaming atmosphere into the room.
Adjusting the volume in-line can be at times get annoying. Mpow EG3 Gaming Headset features a volume wheel on the ear cups. Use it to control the volume seamlessly.
The gaming headset has an adjustable microphone fitted on to it that you can use to chat with your gaming buddies on the other side. Embedded on the mic is a mute control that you can use adjust the microphone’s volume.
Functionality & Compatibility
The headset features 50mm neodymium drivers that deliver top-quality stereo sound that’ll keep you fully immersed into the action or music.
Equipped with 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound, Mpow EG3 Gaming Headset allows you to customize the sounds to your preference. All you’ll need is to download the Mpow Gaming Software so you can hear gunshots & explosions and detect your foes from miles away.
Mpow EG3 Gaming Headset fairs excellently regarding compatibility. This headset will work with your PC, laptop and PS4 gaming console and any other device provided it can support USB.
If you use a Mac for the headset, music and microphone will work perfectly but doesn’t support personalized music sound effects.
Verdict
For a budget gaming headset, we’d say Mpow EG3 is worth every penny. It’s comfortable and delivers outstanding sound quality perfect if you want to sniff your enemies from afar.
- Comfort headband cushion and ear cups soft padding
- Effortless volume control on ear cups
- Surround sound for quality sounds
- Adjustable microphone with volume control
- Doesn’t connect with Xbox console
3. Nubwo 3.5mm Wired Gaming Headset
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
If you want full immersion and to gain an edge over your gaming buddies, comfort is everything throughout your gameplay. Fortunately, Nubwo 3.5mm Wired Gaming Headset has made sure of that.
Crafted with a multi-point headband in a suspension style, Nubwo Gaming Headsets will adjust and conform to any head size and shape granting you the comfort you need to play for hours on end.
On the ear cups is a soft memory foam that helps seal out the noise from the surrounding effectively immersing you fully into a completely different world. Keep shooting at your enemy without any distractions from those around you.
And for your ultimate comfort, the headset features air permeability pad or cushion that fits ergonomically around your head and ears keeping them cool and comfortable.
This wired headset also comes with a high sensitivity 38±3dB microphone designed for humans. On the mic are a superior cover and a microphone mute control that ensures your fellow gamers hear your voice clearly. The microphone boom captures not only captures the slightest human voice but also eliminates any background noises.
Functionality & Compatibility
Nubwo 3.5mm Wired Gaming Headset comes with dual 50mm drivers that help deliver crisp and rich sounds with a strong bass while suppressing the distractions.
This headset is multi-compatible and will support PS4, Xbox One, PC, laptop and Mac. Provided your smartphone or tablet features a USB or 3.5mm connection, this headset will support them as well.
Verdict
Nubwo 3.5mm Wired Gaming Headset is an excellent headset for pro gamers that will provide quality audio and offer comfort for hours.
- Cushioned suspension style headset for comfort
- Padded ear cups for ergonomic fit
- Superior microphone with noise canceling
- Compatible with many gaming platforms
- Microphone not adjustable
4. GAKOV GAV 10 Gaming Headset
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
GAKOV GAV 10 Gaming Headset highlights professional gaming. Its new ABS injection molding renders them foldable. And to make them more solid, the headset features 5 rugged and robust screws.
GAV 10 Gaming Headset commands an ultra-lightweight design weighing less than 370gms. It’s shaped based on the structure of the human ear so it can fit naturally for hours of comfort.
Employing PU high protein durable, scratch-resistant air permeable earmuffs, the headset will keep you extremely cool & comfortable from the start to finish.
Designed with adaptive adjustment, the headband will adjust to conform to any head size. Plus, beneath the headband is a cushion that guarantees comfort for hours.
GAV 10 Gaming Headset also features a quality leather tube microphone that you can use to communicate clearly in multiplayer games. The microphone is adjustable, omnidirectional and will pick up noise from any direction. Playing in a noisy room? The microphone has a noise canceling function that reduces the ambient noise so your voice is clear.
Just about to embark on your Call of Duty, Fortinite or any other of your favorite game? Make use of the LED light fitted on the headset’s side to create a gaming atmosphere.
Functionality & Compatibility
GAV 10 Gaming Headset provides you maximum control. Use the headset’s switch function to tune from low audio, medium audio to headset shake.
On the side is a switch control that you can use to adjust the volume or even mute the microphone without any hassles.
GAV 10 Gaming Headset is multi-compatible and uses a USB jack to hook to other gaming gear. The headset will work with PS4, laptops, PCs, Nintendo 3DS, tablets, PSP, and even mobile phones.
Featuring high quality wire cable, the signal out of this headset is extremely solid. It brings to the table high quality sound reproduction that lets you hear and detect your foe from afar.
Verdict
If you think you can’t find cheap superior quality gaming headsets, then you’re yet to try GAV 10 Gaming Headset. The headset is comfortable, the sound signal is excellent and is multi-compatible.
- Adjustable, lightweight solid design for optimum comfort
- Robust wires with excellent sound signal
- Cushioned headband, padded earmuffs for comfort
- Supports multiple platforms
- Not compatible with Xbox 360 & PS3
5. RUNMUS Gaming Headset
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
RUNMUS Gaming Headset boasts an ergonomic design. Built with a lightweight flexible plastic material, RUNMUS Gaming Headset weight only 20oz and will provide you optimum comfort all day long.
The headband is self-adjusting and has a soft cushion to fit just any head size. Its over-ear ear cups feature a soft memory foam complete with bionic protein cushion coat covers providing a gentle grip for hours and hours of gaming.
RUNMUS Gaming Headset features an adjustable anti-static microphone with noise canceling to reduce the background noise so your communication is as clear as possible is the audio signal is transmitted in real-time without delay.
Integrated inside the gaming headset microphone is anti-static tech that eliminates static sounds. In the spirit of teamwork, prepare to chat with your buddies with utmost clarity.
On both sides of the headset are blue stunning LED lights that help provide a gaming atmosphere. If you mute the microphone, the LED light also disappears.
Functionality & Compatibility
RUNMUS Gaming Headset is multiplatform compatible boasting a seamless functionality of Plug and Play. It supports virtually any platform from PS4, PS Vita, Nintendo (audio), PCs, Mac OS, LL 3DS iOS devices to Android Devices.
The headset employs 50mm audio drivers that are highly responsive coupled with sophisticated audio technology. Easily determine from which direction the gunfire, enemy footsteps, and other sound effects are coming. With the true 7.1 surround sound effect, you can hear an enemy from distant miles, which guarantees a competitive edge.
Verdict
RUNMUS Gaming Headset is a quality wired gaming headset worth the name. It’ll support virtually any platform and grant you a competitive edge in multiplayer games.
- Lightweight flexible design
- Headband cushion & ear cups with soft-padding for comfort
- Support virtually any platform
- Outstanding surround sound
- Lacks in-built mic monitoring function
Best Cheap Gaming Headset Under $100
1. HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset is built with a robust aluminum frame that renders it durable and stable. You can be sure it’ll stand the rigors of everyday life in the hands of a hardcore gamer.
The over-ear ear cups feature an award-winning HyperX exclusive signature memory foam. Additionally, it has an expanded cushioned headband complete with soft pliable leatherate for your comfort.
HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset has a detachable braided cable for portability. In-line is a convenient audio control so you can adjust the audio hassle-free.
It also features a detachable microphone that has been certified by Discord and TeamSpeak. The mic has noise cancelation technology that suppresses ambient noises ensuring you communicate clearly with your gaming mates.
Functionality & Compatibility
HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset is multi-platform compatible. It’ll support almost any platform including PC, PS4, Xbox One, mobile phone, tablets, Nintendo Switch and many other platforms provided they have a 3.5mm port. The headset is also compatible with devices featuring CTIA standard connectors.
Integrated with HyperXTM Cloud Dual Chambers Drivers, the headset eliminates any audio distortion to deliver sound with an extra ounce of distinction as well as clarity.
Verdict
HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset is an excellent strongly built headset that supports almost any platform. The mic has noise canceling function that is priceless. It suppresses background noise for crystal clear communication.
- Strong built
- Comfortable ear cups memory foam
- Supports virtually any platform with 3.5mm port
- Detachable cable and mic
- In-line audio control
2. CORSAIR Void PRO RGB Wireless Gaming Headset
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
Despite being under $100, this headset is not your everyday flimsy pieces. It has been built with metal structural components and reinforced with glass fiber infused plastic to make it robust and durable.
CORSAIR Void PRO RGB, Wireless has ear cups featuring microfiber mesh fabric and soft memory foam. The property allows proper airflow so your ears stay cool and ensures maximum comfort for hours of gameplay.
This gaming headset features a unidirectional microphone (100Hz – 10kHz) and a LED indicator for hassle-free mute. Equipped with noise cancelation function, the microphone reduces the ambient noise letting you communicate clearly with your team.
Functionality & Compatibility
The gaming headset has 20Hz- 20KHz frequency response from deep bass to high frequency. It also comes with 50mm custom-tuned neodymium speaker drivers that deliver true-to-life sounds with -38dB (+/-3dB) sensitivity.
Using the CUE software, you can easily customize your headset’s audio experience as you prefer and even sync with your RGB peripherals. That way, you can dominate your competition and enjoy the experience.
With its advanced 2.4GHz wireless technology, the Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound property delivers immersive sound with up to 40ft wide range and high level of accuracy up 16 hours battery runtime.
Although CORSAIR Void PRO RGB Wireless Gaming Headset is wireless and will connect to the internet, you can also hook it to your PC via USB cable. It’s also compatible with Windows 7, 8 and 10.
Verdict
For a budget wireless gaming headset, we’d say it a pretty functional set. It’s comfortable, has a 40ft wide range and the sound range and quality are on point.
- Robust built and comfortable
- Wide range accurate sounds
- Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound
- Unidirectional high-frequency response mic
- Mic only moves up and down
3. HyperX Cloud Core Gaming Headset
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
Hyper Cloud Core Gaming Headset features over-ear ear cups with leatherette memory foam. The ear cups rock the HyperX Cloud Core closed cup design which reduces the surrounding sounds so your gameplay is without distractions.
Together with a soft leatherette soft-padded headband, the leatherette memory foam ear cups will ensure maximum comfort even if you game for hours on end.
It comes with a detachable microphone that’s TeamSpeak-certified rocking the HyperX exclusive design optimized for pro-gaming. Simply to attach for game use and detach when you want to listen to music only.
Functionality & Compatibility
Hyper Cloud Core Gaming Headset employs 53mm drivers which grants it HiFi capabilities. You can expect superior audio quality whether tuned to the crystal clear and crisp low, mid or high tones.
This headset is compatible with PCs, PS4, mobile devices, and Wii U. For the headset to work, the gaming gear must have 3.5mm ports.
Verdict
Hyper Cloud Core Gaming Headset are super comfortable, deliver outstanding audio and are multiplatform compatible.
- Comfortable soft padding headband and memory foam ear cups
- Hi-Fi capable with superior sound quality
- Multiplatform compatible
- Detachable microphone
- The mic picks up your breathing sounds
4. CORSAIR Void PRO Surround Sound Gaming Headset
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
CORSAIR Void PRO Surround Gaming Headset commands exceptional built quality featuring metallic structural components plus glass fiber-infused plastics to ensure long term durability.
For optimum comfort, the headset ear cups have a microfiber mesh fabric and memory foam. The headband has the same mesh design complete with a soft cushion to allow optimum airflow and keep you comfortable for hours.
You’ll love the fact that the volume control and mute button are on the headset itself and not somewhere on the line. Those who appreciate such a function will tell how annoying it can get to fumble around trying to locate the volume control on the line.
Featuring an optimized noise-canceling microphone, CORSAIR Void PRO Surround Gaming Headset effectively reduces the ambient noise for enhanced voice quality when chatting with your gaming teammates. To mute to the headset microphone, simply stow it up and down.
Functionality & Compatibility
CORSAIR Void PRO Surround Gaming Headset features custom-tuned 50mm neodymium speaker drivers that deliver superior quality sound over a wide range with exceptional accuracy level.
This headset is compatible with multiple platforms right from PC, mobile devices, PS4 to Xbox One.
Unlock the Dolby headset 7.1 surround sound with the included PC USB adapter. Sit down and enjoy immersive audio with a wide range and outstanding level of accuracy.
With the CUE software, you have full control over the entire features of your headset. It provides an easy to use interface through which to custom tune the audio and effortlessly synchronize with your RGB peripherals.
Verdict
CORSAIR Void PRO Surround Gaming Headset is an excellent wired headset comfortable on the ears, head and with superior sound.
- Strongly built and comfortable
- Superior high-accuracy sound quality
- Unidirectional microphone with noise canceling tech
- Full control over the audio with CUE software
- Mic only moves up and down
5. Sennheiser GSP 300 Gaming Headset, Closed Back
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
For optimal durability and years of gaming, Sennheiser GSP 300 Gaming Headset has been designed using high-quality materials.
Crafted with soft memory foam earpads, the headset guarantees optimal comfort for hours of gaming. Playing your games a noisy room? The closed-back design plus the memory foam effectively isolate the ambient noise so there are zero distractions.
The headband is split (a rare design not seen in others) to help spread the pressure for maximum comfort. Sennheiser GSP 300 will sit gently on your head for hours and hours of gaming.
What’s more, fit on the headset is a noise-canceling microphone that isolates the background noise to ensure your gaming buddies can hear your voice clearly.
Don’t you hate it when you have to adjust the volume or mute from a control button in-line? Sennheiser GSP 300 saves you that trouble. Fitted on the ear cups is an intuitive volume control feature that allows you to conveniently adjust the volume.
Functionality & Compatibility
Sennheiser GSP 300 delivers exceptional sound quality with superb bass performance and high-level acoustic clarity. With this headset, you gameplay must get fully immersive.
GSP 300 is compatible with PCs, Mac, PS4 and Xbox One. Use the USB connector to hook to the various gaming gear.
Verdict
Well, Sennheiser GSP 300 is a premium gaming headset for beginners and pros alike. You’ll like the closed back design that isolates the background noise.
- Remarkable comfort
- Closed back design
- High-quality sound quality with superior clarity
- Noise-canceling microphone
- Cable feels flimsy