An affordable wired gaming headset from an established manufacturer delivers clear audio with a comfortable fit to keep gaming sessions engaging for hours on end.
If you want to skip the reviews, we say get the Turtle Beach Recon 70.
Best Cheap Headsets For PC Reviews
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1
- Almighty Audio — Custom-designed Nova Acoustic System features best-in class audio for gaming with High...
- 360° Spatial Audio — Immersive surround sound transports you to the gaming world, letting you hear...
- Adjustable for Perfect Fit — The ComfortMAX System includes height-adjusting, rotating earcups with...
- Bidirectional Noise-Cancelling Mic — The ClearCast Gen 2 mic silences background noise by up to 25dB on...
- Multi-Platform Support — Easily connect to any gaming console with a 3.5mm jack, such as PC, Mac,...
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 headset is an impressively comfortable and great-sounding headset at this price point, featuring large ear cups that accommodate most head sizes while remaining durable and lightweight; its flexible headband doesn’t exert pressure during extended usage, while the retractable microphone in its left ear cup always remains accessible and never interrupts gameplay.
Though this headset lacks luxury features such as wireless connectivity found on more costly headsets, it still delivers exceptional value in its budget category.
Equipped with a standard wired 3.5mm audio connector for use with consoles like Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch laptops, and PCs.
In addition, it also comes equipped with an extension cable if needed as well as a splitter that allows plugging your headset directly into separate mic and headphone ports on PCs.
SteelSeries has equipped its headset with its own software and equalizer, making it more impressive than most 3.5mm headsets at this price point. Sonar Audio’s Pro-grade Parametric Equaliser lets you tailor the soundscape exactly how you like, while presets for top games give you an edge in competition.
This software is only available for PC users, yet it’s an absolute game-changer. It enhances an already impressive audio performance by making bass feel richer and more powerful while making in-game audio more detailed and realistic – perfect for games with fast action and loud music!
This headset makes an impressionable first impression at every gaming session!
Although it doesn’t offer hugely different advantages from its counterparts like Razer Kraken X Ultralight or HyperX Cloud Stinger 2, SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 remains an outstanding entry-level headset offering premium lightweight design and plenty of comfort during long gaming sessions. If budget is an issue then this would make an excellent pick!
Razer Kraken X Ultralight
- FREQUENCY RESPONSE - 12 Hz – 28 kHz.Headphones fit type:Over-Ear
- IMMERSIVE, 7.1 SURROUND SOUND FOR POSITIONAL AUDIO - Outfitted with custom-tuned 40 millimeter drivers,...
- DESIGNED FOR ALL-DAY COMFORT - The lightest Kraken headset ever at 250 grams, around 40% lighter than the...
- BENDABLE NOISE CANCELLING MICROPHONE - A cardioid mic reduces background and ambient noises for...
- IN-HEADSET AUDIO CONTROLS - Includes an analog volume control wheel and mic mute switch on the headset...
The Kraken X Lite headset replaces its older predecessor, Kraken Essential, by emphasizing comfort and audio performance without adding unnecessary bells and whistles like surround sound 7.1 systems that come standard on other headsets at this price point.
It still provides a comfortable fit with its large ear cups and soft, cushioned leatherette headband, but lacks some of the flashier elements found on other Razer headphones such as green accents on the original Kraken or the metallic mesh headband of BlackShark V2.
In addition, Razer included a splitter cable to allow users to use this headset both with PCs and consoles (provided both have 3.5mm inputs), making this budget-minded headset a real value proposition compared to most budget options which only include one cable that combines audio/mic components.
Razer headphones typically feature circular ear cups that provide a better seal against ambient noise and seal against it, providing greater comfort during long gaming sessions due to soft padding and large size.
Unfortunately, however, leatherette headphones often cause heat build-up during extended wear time – something which this pair might suffer from as well.
Audio performance for the X Lite was impressive enough with its 40mm drivers; music sounded clear and crisp while lacking some of its competitors punch and dynamism.
Gaming-wise however, the headset excelled; its 7.1 Surround Sound download provided a natural representation of three-dimensional space, helping identify alien footsteps more easily while anticipating their arrival – perfect for Destiny players attempting to identify where alien footsteps might come from!
One minor downside to the audio experience of this headset is that its mid and high frequencies don’t offer as much clarity compared to competitors; although you can improve them using free EQ software, the audio quality won’t be quite as great.
HyperX Cloud Stinger 2
- Immersive DTS Headphone:X Spatial Audio
- HyperX signature comfort
- Superior sound
- Adjustable rotating earcups
- English (Publication Language)
The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 is an amazing budget headset, capable of competing with much more expensive options in comfort and sound quality.
The sound quality is clean, bright, and crisp with an excellent bass response and decent high-end response, though some high frequencies were missing (to be expected in this price range).
The microphone was pretty decent as well and picked up voice clearly in most situations while being non-noise canceling; it may pick up heavy breathing quite clearly, however.
One of the great features of this headset is that it comes with a two-year activation code for DTS: Headphone X virtual spatial audio on PC – making your experience more immersive and games sound more realistic! Unfortunately, this feature is not supported on consoles.
Like its SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 counterpart, the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 features plastic construction. However, it still proves comfortable enough for long gaming sessions without becoming annoyingly tight around my ears – though some users with larger ears may find them restrictive.
HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 headphones are versatile enough to work on PC and console platforms using its standard 3.5mm headphone jack connection, providing easy compatibility across devices. It boasts an adequate 2-meter cable length with a splitter included for multiple device use if desired.
I really appreciated its all-black aesthetic with red accents on its volume dial and HyperX logos, along with subtle etching on the headband and ear cups that add visual flair. Furthermore, their non-removable covers make cleaning them much simpler!
ASTRO Gaming A10
- Astro A10 Headset for Xbox One, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Mobile, MAC, and PC
- Durability: The Astro Gaming A10 Headset features durable headband anodized aluminum wrapped in a damage...
- Comfort: Extended comfort memory foam ear-cushions keep you from fatigue so you can play as long as you...
- Communication: With the omnidirectional mic featuring flip-up mute functionality and in-line Volume...
- Eco-Packaging - New in non-retail packaging with minimum literature. Includes Velvet Pouch for Easy...
The Astro A10 headset’s second generation is an affordable gaming audio option with upgraded sound quality and comfort features that ensure longer gaming sessions.
This wired stereo headset won’t impress gamers with a variety of features, but it performs its intended task perfectly. Compatible with current consoles and PCs that accept 3.5mm jack connections.
No batteries or wireless connectivity is included with this headset, but that seems not to be a major problem for consumers. It features a stylish yet professional-looking shell, as well as multiple color choices and large components – though its weight might become tiring after long gaming sessions.
The Astro A10 features large, padded ear cups designed to stay comfortably in place when gaming for extended periods. They’re connected with a flexible headband that wraps around the head, offering adjustments for different head sizes.
Furthermore, its microphone can be mounted on an adjustable rotatable boom arm which allows it to be moved up or down as necessary in order to mute it when not needed; additionally, there is an inline volume control and flip-to-mute feature present as well.
A 3.5mm connector can be found on the side of each ear cup for connection with other devices and chat via an adapter included in the box.
The Astro A10 features excellent voice quality and its unidirectional mic is highly sensitive allowing players to pick up sound easily from their environment and is great for online games; in particular, its sound performance speaks for itself: blaster bullets rumble smoothly when fired while helicopter whirrs can be heard clearly; these qualities speak volumes about its sound performance in such an affordable headset.
At such an accessible price point, few headsets can deliver such a superior audio experience as the A10. Perfect for competitive gamers looking to hear their actions have an effect and stay engaged, it makes an excellent alternative to SteelSeries Arctis 3 2019 Edition Wireless which is slightly more comfortable over long gaming sessions while boasting more balanced sound profiles.
Turtle Beach Recon 70
- Note : If the size of the earbud tips does not match the size of your ear canals or the headset is not...
- Italian (Subtitle)
For gamers seeking an affordable headset that provides high-quality sound quality and features a sensitive microphone while being comfortable enough for long gaming sessions, the Turtle Beach Recon 70 headset is an ideal solution.
Compatible with all major gaming platforms and controllers alike, its variety of colors means you’ll find something suitable to match your setup perfectly.
This headset is constructed mostly of plastic, yet doesn’t feel cheap or low-quality. Its outer shell has an appealing matte texture while both its ear cups and headband offer ample padding to provide comfort during extended gaming sessions. Plus, its light design means you’ll barely notice it on your head.
The Recon 70 stereo headset supports basic in-game audio as well as Windows Sonic spatial audio on PC. Our tests revealed it to provide solid, balanced sound quality with adequate bass accuracy (though slightly underemphasized).
Midrange clarity allows clear spoken dialogue in games such as Dauntless, Risk of Rain 2, or League of Legends while vocals and lead instrumentals were precise and detailed.
Recon 70 was an unexpected delight in terms of its microphone performance, as it delivered astonishing results for such an affordable headset. Even in noisy rooms, its microphone could clearly pick up vocals and was straightforward to use with voice chat.
While its omnidirectional microphone may not meet broadcast quality standards, it does a remarkable job at picking up voice chat conversations easily across a room and helping gamers easily interact.
The Recon 70 is an excellent budget option for any gamer looking for an enjoyable gaming experience, from parents wanting to introduce their children to gaming to those tired of hearing all those beeps and bloops at home.
At just under $30, this headset provides all the basics for enjoying gaming – but for those willing to invest a bit more, there are other excellent solutions such as SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless which provide better sound quality while still being economical.
Razer BlackShark V2 X Gaming
- Advanced Passive Noise Cancellation: sturdy closed earcups fully cover ears to prevent noise from leaking...
- 7.1 Surround Sound for Positional Audio: Outfitted with custom-tuned 50 mm drivers, capable of...
- Triforce Titanium 50mm High-End Sound Drivers: With titanium-coated diaphragms for added clarity, our...
- Lightweight Design with Breathable Foam Ear Cushions: At just 240g, the BlackShark V2X is engineered from...
- Hyperclear Cardioid Mic: Improved pickup pattern ensures more voice and less noise as it tapers off...
Razer’s BlackShark V2 X stands out from other headsets at this price point by having a more subdued design with utilitarian elements that reflect its inspiration – inspired by helicopter pilot headsets worn during operations, making it both fashionable and durable.
And with two large 50mm drivers to provide an outstanding soundstage during gaming or music listening.
This headset’s ear cups and headband are both spacious, making it suitable for long gaming sessions.
Additionally, its microphone offers great isolation and clarity of voice quality; although this headset lacks active noise canceling technology to eliminate incidental sounds such as dishware clatter or refrigerator noises from disrupting gameplay or music playback, its effective blocking out game and music sounds still makes this choice worth your consideration.
Volume and Mute controls are conveniently situated on the left side of each ear cup, as is a PC Splitter cable and redeemable code for 7.1 surround software. Although not braided, this cable may fray more quickly than those made from high-grade materials.
As one of many headsets within this price range, it may be easy to overlook how distinguished the BlackShark V2 X stands out from its competition when it comes to comfort and audio quality.
Few headsets provide similar lightweight comfort during extended gaming sessions or provide such accurate sound stages and superior isolation capabilities as the V2 X.
The BlackShark V2 X boasts impressive gaming-specific features, such as THX Spatial Audio, and a USB sound card that lets you adjust audio/microphone settings for specific games like Valorant or CS: GO with ease.
Furthermore, there are even specific THX profiles for Valorant or CS: GO that enhance the audio experience further – though regretfully there isn’t a retractable microphone option that would make the headset even more portable and useful!
Overall though, this headset remains one of the best for PC gaming at this price point!
ROCCAT Elo 7.1 USB
- EXCEPTIONAL 7.1 SURROUND - We call it visual audio because the 360 degree sound characteristics let you...
- MIC MONITORING TECHNOLOGY - Adjustable mic monitoring so you can hear the level of your own voice to...
- CRYSTAL-CLEAR COMMUNICATION - Ensure crystal-clear communication with teammates thanks to a detachable...
- PRECISION-TUNED NANOCLEAR DRIVERS - Hear crisp highs and thundering lows with 50mm Nanoclear speakers...
- DYNAMIC FIT - A self-adjusting metal headband and rotating earcup hinges create a weightless fit unique...
The ROCCAT Elo 7.1 USB headset is another fantastic option for gamers seeking an audiovisual experience that sounds fantastic while feeling comfortable. Packed with features, this product makes its price more than worth its while.
Gaming headphones with superior build quality that are comfortable to wear during long gaming sessions are the best.
The self-adjusting headband instantly adjusts to fit perfectly on any head shape; plus there’s a rotating cushion hinge and premium memory foam for additional comfort.
Furthermore, their microphone features noise canceling technology which eliminates background noise; additionally, it supports TruSpeak to improve voice intelligibility – plus they only require Windows 7 or later to work effectively!
This headset works across various devices but requires only USB access in order to function.
It features 50mm drivers with two modes of virtual surround sound for optimal gaming experiences. Furthermore, its software equalizer allows you to tailor the audio experience using various settings; creating separate profiles for different games will tailor audio output accordingly.
This headset boasts excellent bass accuracy and provides some additional rumble and thump-to-game sound effects, with clear vocals. Furthermore, its midrange is relatively flat, making music easy.
Unfortunately, however, its low-end bass response may fall short on certain genres like David Essex’s classic Rock On; for example.
This headset’s headband is flexible and adjustable for optimal comfort even during long gaming sessions, ensuring your comfort even over hours of usage.
Furthermore, its retractable microphone tucks neatly away inside one ear cup when not being used while its earcups feature buttons and dials for variable mic monitoring and RGB lighting that syncs up with the ROCCAT Swarm software.
The ROCCAT Elo 7.1 USB headset boasts many great features that make it one of the best headsets for PC gamers looking for wireless headsets. Its build quality and audio performance outshone competitors; however, battery life and wireless latency weren’t quite as impressive.
Corsair HS35
- Headset Frequency Response 20Hz - 20 kHz.Headphones fit type:On-Ear.Impedance 32 Ohms at 1 kHz
- Multi-platform compatible with PC, Xbox one, PS4, Nintendo switch and mobile devices
- A pair of custom-tuned 50mm neodymium speaker drivers deliver excellent sound quality with a wide range...
- A fully detachable unidirectional microphone is optimized for voice quality while reducing ambient noise,...
- Plush memory foam with adjustable ear cups, combined with lightweight construction, provides the comfort...
Corsair HS35 is an affordable stereo headset designed for gamers on a tight budget.
Featuring memory foam earcups and headband cushions with soft padding that offers both style and comfort when worn for extended gaming sessions, its lightweight construction makes long gaming sessions enjoyable while its variety of colors ensures you find something suitable.
Furthermore, there is also a microphone included which can be used for video calling but unfortunately doesn’t provide noise cancellation functionality and may prove annoying while listening to music.
This headset was specifically created to work with most console and PC games, using a standard 3.5mm audio jack and including a splitter in its packaging for those wanting to connect multiple devices simultaneously.
Audio quality is excellent when listening at high volumes without distorting, with various colors available at an economical price point.
Corsair has designed the HS35 to be easy and straightforward, offering excellent sound processing without suffering from the clutter found in many lower-end headsets.
Furthermore, its microphone picks up voice clearly with almost no background noise lingering in the background – perfect for gamers and chatty individuals who just want to chat without being disturbed while they play games or interact with each other online.
It makes the perfect companion when engaging in online multiplayer gaming or communication among friends and acquaintances.
However, if you require something with more advanced audio performance, there are various other options on the market that provide more than basic sound quality.
From Corsair alone there are various models like Cloud Stinger and Arctis 1 that provide excellent value with sleek designs and superior audio performance at a more reasonable cost; or perhaps something like RIG 400 or Kraken X will offer better experiences overall – ultimately your choice will come down to personal preferences and budget considerations.
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