Best Budget Gaming Headsets (Wired & Wireless)
The best budget gaming headset gives you clear team chat, balanced sound, and comfort without overspending. Below are the best budget gaming headsets right now — from wired picks typically under $50 to wireless options that deliver real value around $100.
Last updated: October 23, 2025 — Reviewed regularly. Prices vary by retailer and promotions.
Turtle Beach Recon 70 — Best Ultra-Cheap Gaming Headset (Under $50)
A no-frills wired option that proves you don’t need to spend big to get usable audio and a flip-to-mute mic. Lightweight, multiplatform, and a great starter or backup headset — typically under $50.
Why we like it
- Reliable 3.5mm wired simplicity works with almost everything
- Very light; easy to wear for long sessions
- Commonly discounted; easy to replace for kids/guests
Keep in mind
- Mic and build feel basic versus pricier models
- No wireless freedom; cable rustle if it drags
Compatibility: 3.5mm works on PC, PS4/PS5, Xbox, Switch, handhelds, and mobile (with adapter if needed).
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 — Our Pick for the Best Budget Gaming Headset (True Under $100)
A lightweight, comfortable wired headset that is typically priced under $70. Clear sound, a solid retractable mic, and wide platform compatibility make the Nova 1 the safest budget buy under $100 right now.
Why we like it
- Comfort-first fit with breathable pads
- Clear mic for party chat and streams
- Great value sound that doesn’t fatigue
Keep in mind
- No wireless; you’ll be tethered
- Plastic build is light, not luxurious
Compatibility: 3.5mm wired — PC, PS4/PS5, Xbox, Switch, handhelds, mobile (adapter may be required).
Logitech G435 LIGHTSPEED — Best Budget Wireless
Wireless at this price used to mean big compromises, but the G435 delivers LIGHTSPEED 2.4 GHz plus Bluetooth in a super-light frame. Dual beamforming mics aren’t as rich as a boom, but for portable, cable-free budget gaming it’s hard to beat.
Why we like it
- Featherweight; comfy for kids/teens and long sessions
- Lightspeed dongle for low-latency play on PC/PS
- Bluetooth for phones, tablets, and Switch (handheld)
Keep in mind
- No Xbox via dongle; Bluetooth adds latency
- Mic quality is “good enough,” not broadcast-grade
Compatibility: 2.4 GHz dongle = PC/PS4/PS5; Bluetooth = phones/tablets/Switch handheld. No native Xbox wireless.
Razer BlackShark V2 — Best Wired Value (Around $100)
A fan-favorite wired headset with punchy sound, a detachable cardioid mic, and long-session comfort. It often hovers near the $100 mark; sales bring it comfortably below.
Note: Pricing may fluctuate — frequently discounted during sales.
Why we like it
- Clear, energetic sound with strong positional cues
- Detachable boom mic for cleaner desk setup
- Light clamp; easy to wear for hours
Keep in mind
- Wired only; the V2 Pro is the wireless model
- THX Spatial features require the USB sound card/app
Compatibility: 3.5mm wired — PC, PS4/PS5, Xbox, Switch, handhelds; USB dongle adds PC features.
PDP LVL50 Wireless — Best Affordable Wireless (Around $100)
A no-frills wireless set for console and PC gamers who want cable-free play at a fair price. Clear chat and decent comfort; regularly drops below $100 during promos.
Note: Pricing may fluctuate — often discounted during sales.
Why we like it
- Simple controls and dependable wireless range
- Comfortable for long living-room sessions
- Solid value when on sale
Keep in mind
- Buy the right version: Xbox and PlayStation SKUs are different
- Sound/mic are fine, not premium
Compatibility: Model-specific wireless for Xbox or PlayStation; works on PC via dongle with the PS version. Not Bluetooth.
HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless — Best Battery Life (Value Premium)
Not strictly “budget,” but worth stretching for marathon gamers: unusually long battery life (measured in hundreds of hours), comfy fit, and strong overall sound.
Why we like it
- Class-leading battery life reduces charging hassle
- Comfortable memory-foam pads
- Clean mic for work and play
Keep in mind
- No Bluetooth; 2.4 GHz dongle only
- Costs more than our core budget picks
Compatibility: 2.4 GHz dongle — PC and PlayStation. No native Xbox wireless.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 — Best Midrange Wireless Value
A well-rounded step-up pick: multi-platform wireless, simultaneous Bluetooth + 2.4 GHz mixing, and comfort that feels premium without being overpriced.
Why we like it
- Dual-wireless mixing (game + phone chat)
- Great mic and easy on-ear controls
- Comfortable for all-day use
Keep in mind
- Choose the correct platform variant (Xbox vs PC/PS)
- Costs more than core budget picks
Compatibility: Platform-specific 2.4 GHz dongle variants (PC/PS or Xbox) + Bluetooth for phones/tablets.
How to Choose the Right Budget Gaming Headset
- Wired vs Wireless: Wired gives the best value and no charging; wireless is convenient but costs more for similar audio quality.
- Mic Quality: Detachable or boom mics are usually clearer than tiny internal mics.
- Comfort: Weight under ~270 g, soft pads, and moderate clamp force help for long sessions.
- Compatibility: 3.5mm works everywhere; 2.4 GHz dongles are platform-specific; Bluetooth adds latency for competitive play.
- Software: Spatial audio (e.g., DTS/THX) can help with positioning; it’s optional, not mandatory.
How We Choose
We compare current buyer guides from trusted publications, check Amazon US availability, and factor in user consensus. Picks prioritize comfort, clear chat, fair pricing, and lasting build. We also cross-check audio performance with trusted testing resources like RTINGS headphone reviews.
FAQ
Are wired or wireless headsets better on a budget?
Wired headsets are cheaper and never need charging. Wireless adds convenience, but you’ll pay more for similar audio quality.
What’s the best gaming headset under $50?
The Turtle Beach Recon 70 is a reliable wired starter that’s typically priced under $50.
What’s the best gaming headset under $100?
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 is typically under $70 and is the safest true sub-$100 pick right now.