The current gaming market is exploding; games are now released on more platforms than ever before. As a result, headsets for gaming have evolved as well, and can now be found under $200.
This article will help you find the perfect headset for under $200 (especially if you’re looking for something more cost-effective). I have judged all the headsets in this article by their sound quality, comfortability, mic clarity, price-to-quality ratio, and popularity among gamers. I hope this article helps you find the headset that will bring out the best in your gaming.
Some technical information: I am a gamer and a technology enthusiast who not only plays games but also creates and edits videos on a daily basis.
Table of Contents
How to Choose Gaming Headsets
When choosing a gaming headset, there are a few things you should be aware of ahead. Ergonomics, wired or wireless, RGB, microphone quality, drivers, these are just a few things you need to be aware of.
Ergonomics :
Now ergonomics are important regardless of what peripheral you are using. The headset is no exception because it is something that is constantly in use. Because you are wearing them on your head, even if you are spectating a match or watching a video. So if they are not comfortable, you will end up with pain in your ears.
Wired or Wireless :
Wireless technology is far from what it was during its conception. Lately, wireless peripherals are the way to go when it comes to gaming. They have almost zero latency so there is no need to worry about that. With 2.4GHz connections, you can get crystal clear audio from your PC even at distances as great as 10 feet.
Drivers :
Drivers are what create the sound in the headsets, some headsets have 40mm drivers but these days 50mm is standard. Most headsets these days are using a 50mm driver to deliver a crisp sound.
5 Best Gaming Headsets Under $200 (Proven & Popular)
No products found.
1. SteelSeries Arctis 7 – Lossless Wireless Gaming Headset with DTS Headphone: X v2.0 Surround – For PC and PlayStation 4 – White
No products found.
SteelSeries Arctis 7 is a wireless gaming headset with DTS Headphone: X audio that delivers a premium, immersive audio experience. In this review, we’ll be taking a tour of all the features and telling you what we think.
Pros :
- Wireless
- Clear sound quality
- Comfortable design
- User-friendly software setup
Cons :
- Cord can get tangled at times.
- Requires a USB dongle to charge the battery which isn’t included in the package.
- You may need to update your controller’s firmware before use to reduce latency.
- Battery life is only 12 hours with affordable active noise cancellation on, approx. 18 hours for medium, and 24 hours for high. The battery will last much longer when ANC is turned off.
2. Razer Kraken Tournament Edition THX 7.1 Surround Sound Gaming Headset: Retractable Noise Cancelling Mic – USB DAC – for PC, PS4, PS5 Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, & S, Mobile – Green
No products found.
Razer has built its reputation on making top-notch gaming equipment, so it’s no surprise that the Razer Kraken Tournament Edition THX 7.1 Surround Sound Gaming Headset is a solid piece of kit, especially for gamers with a penchant for demanding immersion.
Pros :
- Razer Kraken Tournament Edition THX 7.1 Surround Sound Gaming Headset
- Retractable Noise Cancelling Mic
- USB DAC for PC, PS4, PS5 Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X & S – Green
Cons :
- You might find the headset is not very comfortable on your head
- The retractable microphone does not work as well for what you need
- The microphone might give an echo which it shouldn’t do that. It can be used with multiple devices like PC, PS4, PS5 Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and S, mobile devices.
3. Sony Playstation Platinum Wireless Headset 7.1 Surround Sound PS4
No products found.
Experience game audio like you never have before with the PlayStation Platinum Wireless Headset 7.1 Surround Sound! This headset delivers pure sound clarity and immersive surround sound to create an unbelievably realistic gaming experience.
Pros :
- True 7.1 Surround Sound
- Built in Stereo Speakers
- Dolby Digital Decoder for Improved Audio Quality
- Compatible with PS4, PS3, and PC Gaming Platforms
Cons :
- Expensive
- Non-warranty
- Battery can’t be replaced
- Remote is not easily accessible
4. SteelSeries Arctis 9X Wireless Gaming Headset – Integrated Xbox Wireless + Bluetooth – 20+ Hour Battery Life – for Xbox One and Series X
No products found.
This is my review of the SteelSeries Arctis 9X Wireless Gaming Headset. I’ve been looking for a gaming headset that can deliver true surround sound, but my search has proven futile. The most popular supposed surround sound headsets are really just virtual surround sound – they use software to emulate an environment through speaker placement, which is not the same thing as true surround sound, which uses hardware to create an environment.
Pros :
- 20+ hour battery life
- 3D audio for immersive gaming
- Integrated Xbox Wireless + Bluetooth for high performance gaming
Cons :
- Does not have an audio jack for plugging in legacy headsets.
- The latency is not perfect.
- High-Density Memory Foam on the earpads can cause some discomfort for some.
5. HyperX Cloud II – Gaming Headset, 7.1 Surround Sound, Memory Foam Ear Pads, Durable Aluminum Frame, Detachable Microphone, Works with PC, PS4, Xbox One – Red
No products found.
Today we’re going to be looking at HyperX’s latest gaming headset, the Cloud II. It features a great price, all the necessary hardware for a good experience, and an overall well-built design. The package comes with everything you need to get started and you don’t even need any additional purchases like additional cables or memory cards.
Pros :
- Durable aluminum frame
- Detachable microphone
- Memory foam ear pads
- 7.1 surround sound
Cons :
- It may not suit people who want closed-back surround sound.
- There are better surround sound solutions for the price.
- Some users have received headsets with dead drivers.
Conclusion :
This one’s a toughie, but we’ve done the hard work for you and sorted out the best headsets which are available in under $200. Whether you’re looking for a standard headset with all of the features that your budget can provide or something more advanced, this list has it all.
FAQ:
Q: What is the best affordable gaming headset?
A: Razer Blackshark V2. Dethroning the HyperX Cloud Alpha from last year’s the top spot was no easy feat. … HyperX Cloud II Wireless. Bearing the fruits of HyperX Cloud’s long legacy of excellence,the Cloud IIs presents excellent sound and build quality with the essential features done well … Epos H3. … Steelseries Arctis 9X. … Razer Kraken X. …
Q: What is the highest rated gaming headset?
A: – Intuitive audio controls – Instant pairing via Xbox Wireless Connect – Adjustable equalizer through Xbox accessories app
Q: What is the best Bluetooth headset for gaming?
A: Best multiplatform wireless gaming headset: HyperX Cloud II Wireless ($150) The runner-up: Astro A20 Gen 2 ($120) Other good options Best Xbox-specific wireless gaming headset: Razer Kaira Pro ($150) The runner-up: Corsair HS75 XB Wireless ($150) Other good options Best wired gaming headset: Bose QC 35 II gaming headset
Q: What are the best headphones for gaming?
A: The company currently operates two testing facilities at Dublin Airport and two drive-thru facilities at Cork Airport and one at Shannon Airport. Is buy now pay later as risky as credit card borrowing?