The best cheap gaming headset deals July 2022

A good gaming headset is practically a necessity these days. Clean and precise audio is essential for competitive gaming, allowing you not just to pinpoint your enemies but also to communicate effectively with your teammates. Moreover, recent developments in spatial audio and virtual surround sound have allowed headsets to meet — and occasionally surpass — more expensive audio setups, allowing even the most budget-conscious gamer to obtain a competitive edge at a fraction of the price.

While you could always invest in a massive pair of speakers, they’re likely to earn you the dubious distinction of the worst roommate of the decade. Thankfully, the right headset will allow you to keep the running and gunning to yourself, which is why we’ve rounded up a collection of the best deals you can currently find on some of our favorite models.

For the sake of clarity, we’ve broken the deals down into two categories: wireless and wired. The former is tailored toward gamers looking for a little less clutter in their setup, while the latter is aimed at anyone who doesn’t mind a little extra cabling or is looking for a headset that’s a little more budget-friendly.

The best wireless gaming headset deals

Corsair HS80 RGB Wireless

Compatible with PC, PS4, PS5

The HS80 RGB Wireless, one of the more recent additions to Corsair’s headset lineup, is currently on sale in black at Best Buy and Amazon for $142.99 (about $20 off), which is just a little higher than the headset’s best-ever price. The HS80 represents a slight departure from the company’s previous models in terms of aesthetics, adopting a ski-goggle headband that provides a solid compromise between fit and comfort, and comes with an understated, light-up Corsair logo on both earcups.

During our initial impressions, we did find the sound quality of the HS80 to be somewhat lacking when compared to its predecessor, the HS75 XB Wireless. However, you can still adjust sound profiles, equalization, and other audio settings on your PC via Corsair’s iCue software, and the HS80 also supports virtual surround sound with Dolby Atmos. The HS80 is also equipped with a built-in, flexible boom mic and has volume controls mounted into the left earcup.

In terms of connectivity, the wireless headset pairs with devices using the included USB dongle and can operate for up to 20 hours between charges. A couple of caveats worth noting with this particular headset are its lack of Bluetooth and 3.5mm wired connectivity, which prevents it from working with Xbox consoles, the Switch, and some mobile devices. It can connect to mobile devices over a USB-C connection, but the headset doesn’t come packaged with a two-way USB-C cable.

Corsair HS80 RGB Wireless

The HS80 features RGB accents on both earcups, touts a ski-goggle headband,and pairs with devices via the included USB dongle.

HyperX Cloud Core Wireless

Compatible with PC, PS4, PS5

At first glance, you’d be forgiven for mistaking HyperX’s Cloud Core Wireless — which is currently on sale for $69.99 ($20 off) at Amazon and Best Buy — for its more expensive cousin, the Cloud II Wireless. Both feature virtually the same design, with a padded leatherette band and removable earcups, as well as the ability to pair with devices via 2.4Ghz wireless. They also feature a detachable, noise-canceling microphone and the same 53mm drivers, which managed to deliver punchy, balanced sound when we tested them in the Cloud II Wireless. Both feature support for DTS:X virtual surround sound as well, allowing for more precise directional audio while gaming.

If you’re on a budget, however, you’ll be happy to know that the bulk of the compromises the Core Wireless makes to achieve its more accessible price point are relatively minor. It omits Bluetooth connectivity, for instance, which limits its compatibility with other devices, and it swaps out some of the aluminum hardware found on the Cloud II for plastic. HyperX also claims the Core Wireless only offers 20 hours of battery life per charge, which is 10 hours less than the Cloud II Wireless. Still, the Cloud Core remains a straightforward headset that’s currently available for less than $100.

HyperX Cloud Core Wireless

HyperX’s comfortable Cloud Core Wireless is remarkably similar to the premium Cloud II Wireless in terms of features, but makes some minor compromises in terms of its build quality and features.

Logitech G435

Compatible with PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch

Definitely the boldest headset on our list, the Logitech G435 is a gaming headset perfect for anyone that isn’t afraid to make a statement. This comfortable, oft-colorful headset is on sale in black at Amazon and GameStop for $55.99, nearly matching the best price to date.

Logitech’s on-ear headset features both Bluetooth and 2.4Ghz wireless connectivity, making it compatible with PCs in addition to consoles and mobile devices. The 18-hour battery life is impressive, too, and while it does lack the more traditional 3.5mm audio jack, the included USB-C cable can be used to simultaneously charge and listen.

While the lightweight headset lacks the prevalent boom-mic design used by other headsets in this category — it opts for beamforming microphones — the integrated mic still manages to provide an adequate audio input solution. This has the added benefit of giving the headset a more traditional, on-ear profile, giving you the option of wearing these in public without broadcasting your gamer status.

Logitech G435 Lightspeed

Logitech’s G435 Lightspeed is a lightweight and comfortable wireless gaming headset that won’t break the bank. It’s compatible with PlayStation consoles as well as the Nintendo Switch and PC. It also supports Bluetooth, so you can listen to music or pick up calls while you game.

Razer BlackShark V2 Pro

Compatible with PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X / S, Nintendo Switch (via 3.5mm audio)

The wireless version of the esports-inspired BlackShark headset from Razer boasts a lightweight, aviator design and is currently discounted in multiple colorways to $139.99 at Amazon and GameStop. This isn’t the lowest price we’ve seen the comfortable headset go for, but it remains a solid discount on an excellent gaming headset that normally retails for $179.99.

The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is sturdy and perfectly suited for extended play sessions. The only break in its otherwise innocuous profile is a dedicated knob on the right earcup that allows for quick adjustments to volume when necessary and its detachable boom mic. The headset also features a 3.5mm audio jack and can be paired via 2.4Ghz wireless thanks to the included dongle, but the lack of Bluetooth is a bit disappointing. The V2 Pro is THX 7.1 surround-capable, too, and comes with an included license for Razer’s THX Spatial Audio software.

In terms of battery life, the V2 Pro is capable of lasting up to 24 hours on a single charge, making it one of the longer-lasting headphones on the market. Sadly, however, it still relies on Micro USB for charging.

Razer BlackShark V2 Pro

The wireless version of Razer’s aviator-style esports headset is lightweight and comfortable. This model also features a detachable boom mic and volume knob.

Razer Barracuda X

Compatible with PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X / S (via 3.5mm), Nintendo Switch

The Razer Barracuda X, another solid entry from team green, is definitely one of Razer’s more versatile (and affordable) options when it comes to wireless gaming headsets. It typically retails for $99.99, but is currently on sale in multiple colorways at GameStop and Amazon for $59.99.

The Barracuda X is a fairly unremarkable headset at first glance, given its standard design, but despite its bulkier profile, it is actually lighter than the Razer BlackShark series of headsets. Our initial impressions by Verge staffer Cameron Faulkner noted how comfortable the Barracuda X was, even after several hours of wear, and mentioned that the design sets a strong precedent for potential future iterations.

While the lack of Bluetooth makes the Barracuda X a poor choice for mobile gaming, the 2.4Ghz wireless dongle uses a USB-C connection, meaning that you won’t have to rely on a 3.5mm audio cable to use the headset with your Nintendo Switch. The USB-C dongle can enable wireless connectivity with PS4 and PS5 thanks to the included adapter, too, but it can’t be used with Microsoft consoles unless you use a wired connection.

Razer Barracuda X

Razer’s latest gaming headset, the Barracuda X, normally costs $100 and ships with a USB-C audio transmitter. This makes it an easy choice if you game primarily on the go with a Nintendo Switch or if you have a PS5. It’s also compatible with other platforms via the included USB-A adapter.

Logitech G535 Lightspeed

Compatible with PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch

The Logitech G535 is currently on sale at GameStop and Best Buy for $90.99, down from its usual price of $129.99. While the G535 isn’t available in the same fun colors as the G435, Logitech does currently offer different headbands for the G535 that allow you to personalize the headset with a variety of fun accents.

Aesthetically, the G535 looks similar to the G435, but has a number of key differences. Its primary method of connection is through the 2.4Ghz wireless dongle, but because it lacks Bluetooth connectivity, the G535 is more difficult to use with mobile devices. Just like the G435, the headset uses a USB-C connection for charging, which unfortunately can’t be used for wired listening — an omission made worse when you consider that the G535 doesn’t offer a 3.5mm audio jack.

The earcups have a similar shape and feel to those on the G435, opting for a slightly angular design and breathable fabric for the cushions instead of leatherette. The left earcup houses a power button and built-in volume controls, too, but there’s no way to adjust the in-game chat or mic balance without using the Logitech G software. Thankfully, the flip-to-mute boom mic makes the G535 more catered to gamers, and while it isn’t particularly noticeable when flipped up, it can’t be removed when you’re not using it.

Logitech G535 Lightspeed

The Logitech G535 uses a 2.4Ghz connection, features an adjustable boom mic, and a “ski-goggle” headband that can be swapped out with different color options.

Razer Kaira Pro

Compatible with PC, Xbox Series X / S, Xbox One

If you’re first and foremost an Xbox user, the Razer Kaira Pro is a worthwhile option to consider. It has large, 50mm drivers in each earcup for a broader sound, and you can quickly toggle through four EQ modes — including an FPS mode that amplifies enemy footsteps when playing shooters.

The Kaira Pro is one of the more expensive models featured here, with an MSRP of $149.99, but it is currently receiving a hefty discount of $43 at Best Buy and Amazon, which drops the price to $99.99 in the black or white colorways.

Razer’s Kaira Pro has been one of our top picks for Xbox-dedicated wireless headsets, only being unseated by the Xbox Wireless Headset since it came in at a lower price. This sale price puts them on relatively even footing, with the Kaira Pro gaining the edge in some ways due to its larger drivers and detachable boom mic. The Kaira even has a backup, mobile mic built into the headset, so you don’t have to walk around with the cardioid microphone sticking out if you feel like listening to music on your phone while on the go.

Razer Kaira Pro

The Razer Kaira Pro is a great, Xbox-specific wireless gaming headset. It’s compatible natively with the Xbox Series X / S and Xbox One, but its Bluetooth functionality makes it easy to connect it to your phone, tablet, or PC.

The mic on the EPOS H3 is muted when it’s flipped up, as it is in the picture.

EPOS

Astro A40 TR

Compatible with PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X / S, Nintendo Switch

Normally $149.99, you can currently get the wired Astro A40 TR at Amazon and GameStop for $99.99, the gaming headset’s lowest price to date. The A40 TR is available in three different variations for the same price, which, apart from showcasing different accents, determine the headset’s compatibility with various versions of Astro’s Audio V2 software. The aforementioned software package gives you a way to fine-tune the settings of your headset, allowing you to adjust for a more optimal listening experience.

Keep in mind that which headset you buy will limit which console you can use with the software, but the A40 TR does sport a 3.5mm audio connection, allowing you to use it with any platform in a pinch. Another plus is the sheer variety of swappable components on the headset, which let you change out headbands and earcups, or remove the boom mic altogether. A number of themed components are available directly from Astro, but you can also design your own if you’re feeling particularly adventurous.

Astro A40 TR

The Tournament Edition of the Astro A40 features 3.5mm wired audio connectivity and swappable accent plates on the earcups and headband.

HyperX Cloud II

Compatible with PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X / S, Nintendo Switch

The tethered version of the HyperX Cloud II is currently on sale in multiple colors through HyperX and HP for $59.99, as opposed to its usual price of $99.99. The Cloud II shares many of the same features as the wireless version, including a comfortable fit, detachable boom mic, and virtual 7.1 surround sound when using a USB connection on a PC. While the wired connection does present some challenges, it has the added benefit of making the Cloud II compatible with a wider variety of platforms.

HyperX Cloud II

The wired HyperX Cloud II touts many of the same features as the wireless version. This includes a comfortable design and virtual 7.1 surround when using a USB connection with your PC thanks to an inline DAC (digital audio converter).

EPOS H3 Closed Back gaming headset

Compatible with PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X / S, Nintendo Switch

The EPOS H3 is a newer release from this lesser-known manufacturer, and you can currently find the lightweight headset on Amazon and GameStop in the black colorway for $74.96 instead of $99.99, which matches the headset’s best price to date.

The headset shares a similar form factor to its more expensive siblings, with wide-set, closed-back earcups that offer some decent noise isolation but fall short of what you’d expect when it comes to active noise cancellation. This design choice also lends the H3 an excellent sound stage that’s equally impressive for gaming or just jamming out. Overall, the sound quality easily rivals headsets that normally cost twice as much.

Elsewhere, you’ll find a flexible boom mic that is hardwired to the headset and can be flipped up to quickly mute it. The right earcup also has a knob for fine-tuning volume, but the H3 lacks a built-in audio mixer as well as the ability to adjust the mic pickup levels. It relies on a 3.5mm audio connection as well, which may prevent it from working with some mobile devices, but it’s otherwise compatible with all current consoles and PC.

Indeed a bit larger than your average gaming headset, the EPOS H3 remains deceptively light. And while it may not appeal to everyone from an aesthetic standpoint, the thick leatherette cushions that cover its contact points make the EPOS H3 an excellent choice for extended wear. Read our review.

EPOS H3

The EPOS H3 is a closed-back, wired headset. The lightweight accessory is extremely comfortable and can be tethered to a variety of devices as long as they have a 3.5mm audio jack.

Logitech G Pro Gaming Headset

Compatible with PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X / S, Nintendo Switch

This esports-centric entry in the wired category gets serious points for opting for its super-clean aesthetic. The Logitech G Pro headset was designed with esports in mind and is currently available at GameStop and Amazon for $76.99, a modest discount on its typical $99.99 price tag. This is still one of the lower prices we’ve seen for this particular headset, which was already a substantial value prior to the current discount.

The G Pro is remarkably simple in terms of its appearance, with no visible knobs or buttons, and no extra ports with the exception of a second 3.5mm audio jack for the detachable boom mic. In addition to the expected 3.5mm audio cable, the G Pro also comes packaged with velour ear pads that can be swapped with the standard leatherette earcups, as well as an external USB DAC that can be used to fine-tune your audio experience on PC using Logitech’s G Hub software.

Logitech G Pro Gaming Headset

The wired version of Logitech’s esports-focused gaming headset features the same sharp aesthetics and robust sound that made the wireless version so popular.

Razer BlackShark V2 X

Compatible with PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X / S, Nintendo Switch

Amazon and GameStop have discounted the Razer BlackShark V2 X from its usual price of $59.99 to just $49.99, making the least expensive model of the BlackShark lineup just a little more budget-friendly. The headset looks virtually identical to the standard and Ultimate versions, with aviation-style earcups and a flexible boom-mic, and the left earcup features the same quick-mute button and volume control knob. However, the V2 X makes some compromises to achieve its more approachable price point.

The earcups are still roomy and comfortable, but they use imitation leather instead of the more breathable fabric used on the more expensive models. The boom mic also looks and sounds similar to the standard BlackShark, but isn’t detachable. The 3.5mm audio cable is also built into the headset and can’t be detached. Finally, although it features virtual 7.1 surround sound, the V2 X isn’t compatible with THX spatial audio, which limits your options when it comes to fine-tuning your audio.

Overall, however, these changes are largely cosmetic. There are certainly headsets that sound better or have a greater list of features, sure, but it’s difficult to find a headset that bests the BlackShark V2 X at this price point.

Razer BlackShark V2 X

The budget entry in the BlackShark lineup shares the same form factor as its more expensive variants but relies on a 3.5mm audio connection.

Razer Kraken

Compatible with PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X / S, Nintendo Switch

An absolute unit of a headset, the Razer Kraken is currently on sale in the black and green colorways at Amazon and Best Buy for around $45, roughly $35 off its standard retail price. The massive headset is certainly one of the larger models in Razer’s arsenal, yet it remains a solid choice for anyone who wants powerful sound while gaming on their PC or console.

The Kraken uses an integrated digital-analog converter (DAC), which provides 7.1 virtual surround without the need for additional accessories. However, this feature is only available when connected to PCs running Razer’s THX Spatial Audio software. Additionally, the headset features thick, leatherette ear cups with cooling foam — which are perfect for extended play sessions — as well as a flexible boom mic that retracts into the left earcup when not in use. And, thanks to its 3.5mm audio connection, it’s compatible with both consoles and mobile devices, as well as PC.

Razer Kraken

The Razer Kraken is a large, wired headset that features 7.1 virtual surround sound for PCs and consoles. Its retractable boom mic also comes equipped with active noise cancellation.

Sign up for the

newsletter

Verge Deals

Subscribe to get the best Verge-approved tech deals of the week.