In the gaming world, audio is a critical component that elevates the entire experience, taking players from merely playing a game to living within its universe. As the gaming industry evolves, so does the need for quality audio gear that can keep up. Enter wired headsets for gaming. Striking the balance between affordability and performance is crucial to ensure that players receive the auditory immersion they crave (and deserve) without breaking the bank. From the casual gamer to the eSports pro, everyone stands to benefit from a well-chosen wired headset.
The Best Gaming Headsets in 2024
The best gaming headsets come with tons of features for every type of gamer. This guide will you decided which gaming headset is the best for you.
When selecting a budget wired headset for gaming, consider these factors:
- Sound Precision: A top-notch headset should deliver crystal-clear audio, enabling players to detect even the subtlest in-game sounds. Features like surround sound can make a significant difference in games where every audio cue matters.
- Comfort & Design: Extended gaming sessions demand comfortable wear. Look for headsets with cushioned ear cups, adjustable bands, and lightweight construction to prevent fatigue.
- Microphone Quality: Clear communication is essential, especially in team-based games. A headset should come equipped with a noise-cancelling microphone to ensure teammates hear every call-out without interference and lag.
GameZXC's Picks for the Best Budget Wired Headsets for Gaming
HyperX Cloud Stinger 2
The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 gaming headset is a great budget-friendly offering that leaves no stone unturned. It boasts 50mm drivers, support for DTS Surround, has a noise-canceling microphone and weighs under 300 grams. The mic can be flipped up to mute and put it out of the way. The earcups can also rotate 90 degrees for a more comfortable fit and resting position.
- Brand
- HyperX
- Compatibility
- PC, Xbox Series, PS4, PS5
- Surround Sound
- DTS Surround
- Weight
- 272 grams
- Driver
- 50 mm
- Microphone
- Electret condenser microphone
- What's Included
- Gaming Headset, PC extension cable, DTS Headphone:X (2 year activation code included), Quick Start Guide
- Noise Cancellation
- No
- Frequency Response
- 10 Hz – 28 kHz
- Ear Cushions
- Memory foam and premium leatherette
- Solid plastic construction
- Earcups can rotate 90 degrees
- Mic flip up to mute functionality
- No RGB lights
HyperX has solidified itself in the gaming headset space with an impressive lineup that combines great performance with good value. The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 is no exception, and it stands as the best budget wired headset for gaming overall. Often priced in the sub $50 budget, the Cloud Stinger 2 boasts features like DTS Headphone:X Spatial Audio, easy access audio controls, rotating earcups, and a swivel microphone. It sits snugly on the head, providing passive noise isolation which is perfect for gaming in a low noise environment.
The earcups are made from memory foam and soft leatherette, making them comfortable to use over long gaming sessions, while the wired connectivity ensures that gamers will never run out of battery. It comes with 50mm drivers, which offer a wide frequency range that is complemented by audio controls on the earcups. It has a plastic construction, which is to be expected at this price point, but that also helps to keep the weight down.
HyperX is known for its above-average mic quality and the Cloud Stinger 2 comes with an electret condenser microphone that is noise-canceling and can be flipped up to mute. Of course, keeping just the essentials in mind, there are no RGB lights on these headsets.
Gamers will love HyperX headsets for their high-quality audio, clear communication, and comfortable design, but wired fans will be especially pleased with the Cloud Stinger 2.
ASUS TUF Gaming H1 Gaming Headset
The ASUS TUF Gaming H1 Wired Headset effortlessly combines high-quality sound and durability into a budget-friendly package. With its 40 mm ASUS Essence drivers, Virtual 7.1 surround sound, and Discord-certified microphone, this headset offers an edge in competitive gaming without breaking the bank.
- Compatibility
- PC, Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X | S, and Mobile Devices
- Brand
- ASUS
- Surround Sound
- Virtual 7.1
- Weight
- 287 g
- Driver
- 40 mm ASUS Essence
- 40 mm ASUS Essence drivers deliver deep bass and crystal-clear audio
- Virtual 7.1 surround sound for immersive gameplay
- Weighs 287 grams, which may be a bit heavy for some
- Volume and mute controls located on ear cup might take time to get used to
For those seeking an immersive experience without breaking the bank, the ASUS TUF Gaming H1 offers a very compelling package that also looks great. Not only does it boast deep bass and clear audio with its 40 mm ASUS Essence drivers, but it also brings in Virtual 7.1 surround sound. This surround sound feature significantly enhances the spatial awareness in games, a critical factor for any gamer looking to gain a competitive edge. Moreover, the headset's unidirectional analog boom microphone has been certified by Discord and TeamSpeak, ensuring crystal-clear communication during intense multiplayer sessions.
In addition to audio performance, this headset is designed with user comfort in mind. Weighing in at just 287 grams, it aims to make long gaming sessions less fatiguing. The intuitive control buttons on the earcup for volume adjustment and microphone muting offer immediate control without having to navigate software interfaces. Multi-platform compatibility ensures that gamers don't need a different headset for each device, supporting PCs, Macs, PlayStation 4 & 5, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox One & Series X | S. Overall, the ASUS TUF Gaming H1 Wired Headset is a great-looking option for budget-conscious gamers seeking quality and versatility.
Best Gaming Headphones in 2024
For gamers looking for the best sound quality, there is no better option than a pair of HiFi headphones, and these are some of the best.
HyperX CloudX Xbox Gaming Headset
Officially Licensed Affordability
HyperX CloudX Gaming Headset rises to the occasion with its Xbox-specific design, offering a unique blend of affordability and performance. Officially licensed by Microsoft, this budget headset doesn't skimp on essentials, delivering signature HyperX comfort, durable aluminum frame, and immersive in-game audio.
- Compatibility
- Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S
- Microphone
- Electret condenser microphone
- Weight
- 0.71lb
- Frequency Response
- 15Hz-25kHz
- Ear Cushions
- Memory foam and premium leatherette
- Official Xbox licensing ensures compatibility and quality
- Signature HyperX comfort for extended gaming sessions
- Limited to a 3.5 mm headset jack, restricting some connectivity options
- In-line controls may require some getting used to
The HyperX CloudX Gaming Headset presents an enticing blend of affordability and top-tier features that any Xbox gamer would find hard to ignore. Officially licensed by Microsoft, the headset is designed to work seamlessly with Xbox controllers that feature a 3.5mm headset jack. Notably, it offers HyperX's signature comfort, which is widely acclaimed for making even marathon gaming sessions bearable. The durable aluminum frame further adds to its reliability, ensuring that it withstands the rigors of daily gaming use.
But the HyperX CloudX goes beyond mere comfort and durability. What catches attention is the headset's audio capabilities. The immersive in-game audio experience is powered by enhanced bass reproduction along with crystal-clear lows, mids, and highs. These elements come together to create a complete sensory experience that significantly elevates gameplay. The headset also features intuitive in-line audio controls and a detachable noise-cancellation microphone. For those who appreciate the comfort and audio quality but are on a budget, this headset offers an attractive compromise between cost and features, making it an ideal pick for budget-conscious Xbox gamers.
NUBWO Gaming headset
Value and Versatility in One Package
NUBWO Gaming headset offers an affordable entry into high-quality gaming audio, with dual 50mm speaker drivers and a noise-canceling mic. Its budget-friendly pricing doesn't compromise on key features, setting it apart as a top choice in the mid-range wired headset category for gamers.
- Microphone
- Unidirectional Noise Cancelling
- What's Included
- Headphone, PC Extension Cable, Multi-language User Manual
- Weight
- 0.88 lbs
- Driver
- Dual 50mm
- Balanced audio output with dual 50mm drivers
- Noise-canceling omnidirectional microphone
- Volume and mic controls could be more intuitive
- Leatherette ear cups may cause heat buildup over extended use
The NUBWO Gaming headset is engineered to offer an immersive gaming experience, with detailed and balanced audio that enriches any form of digital entertainment, from games to movies. The 50mm speaker drivers are designed to produce an ultra-low distortion soundscape, elevating the gaming experience to a whole new level. The headset also includes a noise-canceling omnidirectional microphone, effectively eliminating background noise to offer crisp and clear team communication. The built-in controls add a layer of convenience, enabling volume adjustments and microphone muting without diving into additional settings.
Comfort is another essential aspect where the NUBWO headset excels. It is built for prolonged gaming sessions with its soft leatherette ear cups and ergonomically padded headband. However, the leatherette material might contribute to some heat buildup, so occasional breaks might be necessary during marathon sessions. The headset also boasts of its versatility in compatibility, making it a suitable pick whether gaming on a PC, console, or mobile device. But note that an additional Xbox One Stereo Adapter may be required for Xbox users. This headset shines as an all-rounder, demonstrating that excellent audio and comfort can be achieved without breaking the bank.
Razer BlackShark V2 X USB
The Razer BlackShark V2 X USB is a slight upgrade from the popular and great-performing BlackShark V2 X as it brings a noise-cancelling microphone, making it ideal for team chat. The headset connects to the system via USB Type-A and delivers impressive sound quality thanks to its 50 mm drivers. The headset also has
Hybrid memory foam cushions and volume controls on the earcups.
- Microphone
- HyperClear Noise Canceling
- Compatibility
- PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series, Switch
- Brand
- Razer
- Surround Sound
- 7.1 surround sound
- Noise Cancellation
- Passive
- Weight
- 240 grams
- Frequency Response
- 20 Hz – 20 kHz
- Ear Cushions
- Hybrid memory foam cushions
- Driver
- 50 mm
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Impressive sound quality
- Volume control on earcups
- Green cable may not be for everyone
The Razer BlackShark V2 X USB isn't merely a budget-friendly option; it is a force to be reckoned with in the noise-canceling category for gaming headsets. The advanced passive noise cancellation features sturdy, closed ear cups that provide a tight seal, effectively isolating sound and creating an immersive gaming environment. This is further enhanced by the custom-tuned 50 mm Triforce Titanium drivers that deliver clear, high-end audio. The proprietary design divides the driver into three parts for individual tuning of highs, mids, and lows, producing brighter, clearer audio with richer highs and more powerful lows.
Razer Kraken V3 X Headset Review
The Razer Kraken V3 X combines a comfortable design, decent audio quality, and excellent microphone clarity for an incredibly affordable price.
The lightweight design at just 240g makes this headset highly comfortable for extended gaming sessions, thanks to its breathable foam ear cushions. The HyperClear Noise-Cancelling mic also adds value with its improved noise-cancellation features, making communication clearer during multiplayer sessions. However, the 7.1 surround sound feature is restricted to Windows systems. Another consideration is that cross-platform compatibility might require additional adapters for specific devices like Xbox One. Yet, the Razer BlackShark V2 X USB sets a new standard for what gamers can expect from a budget, noise-canceling headset, delivering a rich, immersive experience across a variety of platforms.
Corsair HS65 Surround
Luxury and Affordability
The Corsair HS65 Surround Gaming Headset delivers a deluxe gaming audio experience without breaking the bank. Combining high-quality, custom-tuned 50mm neodymium audio drivers and Dolby Audio 7.1 Surround Sound, this headset offers top-tier sound without the premium price tag.
- Brand
- Corsair
- Compatibility
- PC, PS5/PS4, Xbox Series X | S, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices
- Surround Sound
- Dolby Audio 7.1
- Weight
- 282 g
- Driver
- 50mm Neodymium
- High-quality 50mm neodymium drivers for exceptional sound fidelity
- Multi-platform compatibility covers PC, consoles, and mobile devices
- Leatherette memory foam may not suit all comfort preferences
- Requires USB adapter for 7.1 Surround Sound on PC and Mac
For those who seek an elevated gaming audio experience without completely depleting their wallets, the Corsair HS65 Surround Gaming Headset stands as an excellent contender. Designed for hours of comfortable gaming, its leatherette memory foam ear cups and soft fabric reduce fatigue, making extended gaming sessions more pleasurable. The aluminum-reinforced construction of the adjustable headband further lends to its lightweight and comfortable design, weighing in at just 282g.
But the Corsair HS65 is more than just a comfortable fit. It excels in audio performance. Its custom-tuned 50mm neodymium drivers and Dolby Audio 7.1 Surround Sound offer a multi-dimensional auditory experience. Additionally, support for Sony Tempest 3D audio on the PS5 broadens its applicability for console gamers. Factor in the SonarWorks SoundID Technology for customizable sound control on PC and Mac, and it becomes clear why this headset is a high-end budget choice for gamers demanding quality and versatility.
Turtle Beach Recon 50
Budget-Friendly Without Sacrificing Quality
The Turtle Beach Recon 50 is a cheap pair of gaming headsets that focuses on performance, rather than extra features. It comes with 40 mm drivers and passive noise isolation. The microphone is detachable and can be controlled through the in-line controller.
- Microphone
- Detachable
- Brand
- Turtle Beach
- Compatibility
- All platforms
- Noise Cancellation
- Passive noise isolation
- Driver
- 40 mm
- Plug-and-Play 3.5mm connectivity for hassle-free setup
- Unique design
- Lacks advanced customization features
The Turtle Beach Recon 50 offers a great entry point into the world of gaming headsets. Compatible with all platforms, the Recon 50 has a blue and red Nintendo Switch-style finish that makes it stand out from the crowd. Of course, it also comes in three other color options that primarily feature black, in case the red and blue design isn't quite to a player's taste. The headset additionally features 40 mm drivers and synthetic leather with foam cushioning for the earcups. This, combined with the lightweight design, makes the Recon 50 great for long gaming sessions. While the mic is detachable, there are inline controls to mute the mic, as well as control the master volume.
It offers passive noise isolation and a plug-and-play 3.5mm connection that makes it easy to use with all platforms. There are no additional features like rotating earcups or a flip-up mic, which allows Turtle Beach to keep the price down and focus on audio performance. It should also be noted that the wire for these headsets hangs from both earcups, unlike most other options. Regardless, if gamers are looking for a cheap yet well-rounded gaming headset, the Turtle Beach Recon 50 is the way to go.
How to Choose the Ideal Budget Wired Headset for Gaming
Identifying the best budget wired headset for gaming means understanding both gaming requirements and audio desires. Keep these crucial aspects in mind:
- Audio Depth: In immersive single-player games or high-octane multiplayer battles, sound depth can make a profound difference. Opt for headsets that offer rich soundscapes and can capture both high and low-frequency sounds. The audio quality will depend on a combination of factors such as the size and type of driver, the frequency response range, and the impedance, among other factors.
- Durability: Given that budget options are under consideration, it's vital to find headsets that offer robust build quality. This ensures longevity and gets the most bang for the buck. Typically, this price range will consist of plastic builds, but that does not have to be a bad thing as it contributes to a lightweight and therefore comfortable feel.
- Cable Length & Quality: A longer cable offers flexibility in terms of movement, but keeping it tangle-free can be tricky. Consider headsets with braided cables for added durability.
- Compatibility: Ensure the headset is compatible with the primary gaming platform, be it PC, consoles, or even mobile devices. Some headsets might come with adapters or multiple connectors.
- Adjustability: Different gamers have different head sizes and shapes. A headset that offers adjustable bands and rotating ear cups can cater to a wider range of users. Most headsets allow for adjusting the headband size, but not too many offer rotating earcups in the budget space.
After taking these considerations into account, getting the perfect budget wired headset for gaming becomes a more doable task.
Best Budget Wireless Gaming Headsets for 2024
These are the best budget wireless gaming headsets available to buy right now.
FAQ
Q: Are wired headsets good for gaming?
Certainly, wired headsets provide a consistent audio experience without the concern of battery life. They ensure minimal latency, essential for real-time reactions in gaming, and offer reliable sound quality.
Q: How much should a gaming headset cost?
Budget-friendly options can start as low as $20, while premium models might exceed $300. Always prioritize individual preferences and read Game ZXC guides before purchasing.
Q: Do pro gamers use wired headsets?
Yes, many pro gamers prefer wired headsets due to their consistent performance, zero latency, and absence of battery-related interruptions during critical moments in competitions.