Our Picks for the Best Gaming Headset under 100 Dollars
Are you looking for the best gaming headset under 100 dollars? A decent gaming headset is probably one of the most important gaming accessories you can get. It not only enhance your gaming experience but also can give you quite an advantage over other players if playing competitive games. Hearing enemy footsteps, gunshots, that’s exactly what gaming headsets are made for.
In this article we have compiled a list of the best gaming headset under 100 dollars. This means that almost every serious gamer will be able to afford them. However, this does not mean that all headsets on this list cost around 100 dollars, there are also cheaper ones. So what are you waiting for?! Take a look!
How to choose a gaming headset?
Before making any purchase, you should know what do you want and expect from a gaming headset. Below are few most important criteria and specifications when choosing a headset.
Sound QualityProbably the most important criteria are sound quality. If you are getting a headset that costs nearly 100$, it will most likely sound decent. The headset driver size can make difference, for example, if the headset has 50mm or 40mm drivers. When it comes to sound quality, you should check such specifications as frequency range and whether it has surround sound or not. Of course, stereo headsets work well. However, if you want a small advantage over other players especially when playing competitively, then surround sound is the way to go.
ConnectionNowadays you can choose between a headset with 3.5 mm jack, USB connection or no wiring at all. When choosing your connection type, remember that 3.5mm audio jack is compatible with almost all devices unlike USB or Bluetooth connections. Does sound quality change depending on your connection? No, it doesn’t. However, you should remember that wireless headset can interfere with other wireless devices and these noises can affect your audio quality.
CompatibilityIf you are getting a gaming headset, you should know how you will use it and on which platform. Is it PC, Xbox or PS4, maybe Nintendo Switch? Compatibility is a must check criteria when looking for a gaming headset. If you want to use your headset on a console as well as PC – on many applications, we advise getting a headset with 3.5mm audio jack.
ComfortComfort is very important when it comes to gaming. You will most likely spend few hours a day sitting and gaming. A headset with poor comfort level can cause strains and squeeze your head and ears. Therefore, we always advise trying on your chosen headset before purchasing it.
PriceAt last but not the least there is the price. As mentioned all headsets listed in this article cost less than 100$. If your budget is around 70-100$, you will get a headset with all the latest features and decent sound quality. Sadly, if you go below this price range, you will most likely miss something out.
Our Picks for the Best Gaming Headset Under 100 Dollars
1. SteelSeries Arctis 5 – superb allrounder
There’s a reason why this little wonder made our list for the best gaming headset under 100 dollars. SteelSeries Arctis 7 is probably the best wireless headset on the market today because of it’s superb audio quality, features and price. One step down is SteelSeries Arctis 5. Basically, it’s the same headset as Arctis 7 just with one small drawback – it’s not wireless but wired otherwise it’s exactly the same. For connection, you can use USB or analog connector. Sound quality is impressive, and you get 7.1 surround sound. We also loved that you can choose it in one of five colors. Overall it’s one of the best choices you can make.
2. ASTRO Gaming A40 TR – almost premium headset
If you are looking for a headset that looks good, has tons of features and superb audio quality, ASTRO Gaming A40 TR is exactly for you. It’s very basic yet modern headset that comes with traditional 3.5 mm connector. Therefore, it’s compatible with all gaming platforms.
The build quality feels very sturdy and well made. It’s also relatively light headset making it super comfortable for long gaming sessions.
3. SteelSeries Arctis 3
Here’s another great contender for the best gaming headset under 100 dollars. The SteelSeries Arctis 3 offers a Bluetooth playing experience with the option for analog wires when needed. While these gaming headphones don’t feature 7.1 surround sound, the S1 speaker drivers deliver clear, low-distortion audio right to your ears. The microphone of these gaming headphones is engineered with ClearCast, which provides great voice quality and reduces background noise.
One major downside to the SteelSeries Arctis 3 is the use of proprietary wires. If you lose or damage the wires that come with these gaming headphones, you will need to order new ones directly from the manufacturer.
4. HyperX Cloud II – superb choice
Kingston’s HyperX Cloud II is one of our all-time favorite headsets simply because it works great. You get huge 53mm drivers with neodymium magnets, 7.1 surround sound and noise-canceling microphone. We were also very impressed with the 15-25kKhz frequency range which is much wider than traditional 20-20kHz meaning you will hear deeper bass and higher pitches. Comfort wise it’s also great. Going to use your headset for 8 hours a day? No problem, memory foam ear pads with an extra set of Velour ear pads makes this headset very comfortable.
5. Razer Electra V2
The Razer Electra V2 gaming headphones feature the Razer Synapse virtual 7.1 surround sound software, which lets you customize your in-game audio experience to your exact preferences. These headphones include a detachable boom mic, but the lack of noise-cancellation means that voice audio is often lackluster. But if you’re looking for a well-rounded and affordable pair of gaming headphones for single-player games, the Razer Electra V2 is a great option.
6. HyperX Cloud Stinger – excellent audio quality for not a lot of price
If you can’t afford HyperX Cloud II yet still want something that sounds just as good, a wise choice would be HyperX Cloud Stinger. Of course, it doesn’t have as many features and it’s a stereo headset yet it still sounds excellent and is very suitable for gaming. Also, the build quality is quite flimsy featuring hard plastic. However, can you ask much more from a headset that costs two times less than HyperX Cloud II?
7. Razer Kraken TE
If you like the Razer Electra V2 but want something a bit heftier, then the Razer Kraken TE gaming headphones might be for you. With a plush, comfortable design and retractable microphone, the Razer Kraken TE can handle even the longest gaming sessions. These headphones feature custom-tuned 50 mm sound drivers and THX 360-degree spatial audio. Gamers who prefer consoles, though, should be warned that the spatial audio only works when using a PC.
8. Logitech G933 Artemis
You won’t find much better when browsing the best gaming headset under 100 dollars. Logitech is well-known gaming accessory manufacturer. When it comes to audio systems, they are very well at making speakers. While many gamers use Logitech’s speakers, few use their headsets. G933 Artemis is their high-end gaming headset that’s compatible will almost every gaming platform. Sound quality is great and you get all the features you would expect – LED lighting, 7.1 surround sound and much. Unfortunately for under 100$, you can only get the wired version of this headset.
9. Turtle Beach – Ear Force Recon 50
This is probably the cheapest gaming headset on this list. Turtle Beach Ear ForceRecon 50 is a very simple and basic yet good sounding gaming headset. Because of traditional 3.5mm connector, it’s compatible with all gaming platforms. Simple said – if you’re on a budget, this probably is your best bet.
10. Logitech G231 – more than great for just about any gamer
Another very modern and up to date headset. Although it doesn’t have such features as noise cancellation microphone or 7.1 surround sound, it still is a superb headset and quite cheap to buy. As for sound quality – it’s good, we didn’t had any complaints.
11. XIBERIA V10
The XIBERIA V10 headset offers an adjustable build featuring high-quality materials. Cooling ear cushions and a suspension head strap make these gaming headphones extremely comfortable to wear for extended gameplay. Sound and microphone quality are suitable for casual gaming but pale in comparison to more expensive headsets on the market.
Overall, the XIBERIA V10 is a great choice for those looking for an affordable option or a backup to their high-end gaming headphones.
12. Turtle Beach Stealth 600
The Turtle Beach Stealth 600 gaming headphones offer a sleek design and 100-percent wireless gaming experience. Virtual surround sound and 50mm speakers offer crisp, fully immersive in-game audio. The flip-to-mute mic gives some users trouble by either being too quiet or picking up background noise, but overall offers a quality chat experience. Other valuable features of this headset include a 15-hour rechargeable battery and Turtle Beach’s exclusive Superhuman Hearing setting.
Final words on Our Picks for the Best Gaming Headset Under 100 Dollars
We truly hope that our choices for the best gaming headset under 100 dollars helped you choose your best fit. All gaming headsets above are excellent and offers superb audio quality. You just have to choose what design, brand, and features you want. You won’t be disappointed no matter which headset you choose. Just before you do so, check compatibility with your system. If you are after specific console headsets, check out our top Xbox headset and PS4 headset articles.
Have a specific headset in mind that you would include in this list for the best gaming headset under 100 dollars? Which headset would you choose? Feel free to comment below.
