A cheap headset is only worth buying if your friends can hear you, not just if you can hear the game. Check that before you look at price, sound, or style. Nintendo’s support page says that with a Bluetooth headset on Switch 2 you can hear other players but not use the headset’s microphone. Sony’s error page says a Bluetooth audio device isn’t compatible with PS5 consoles.
While all budget gaming headsets may be a risk, that does not mean a wired model or a wireless headset that uses an adapter will not work, if that type of connection is actually listed by the manufacturer and is actually supported by your game console. An individual who is using a Nintendo Switch was instructed to check their parental control and game settings before being informed by the NintendoLife forum thread that the console does not support Bluetooth microphones; the same is true for PS5 users. The list below provides an overview of what is actually eliminated from a headset when it is sold at a lower price, as well as which of those items you can do without.
What a Cheap Gaming Headset Actually Takes Away
The lower price does not mean that all models are the same. Using a lower price allows you to determine what you will lose based on the price you model. Some products are unusable for chatting on a console, while others are not. The information in the table below summarizes the trade-off between the manufacturer’s documentation and independent reviews.
| What can be cut | Example from the documentation | Can you work around it later? |
|---|---|---|
| A supported mic path for your console | Nintendo says Bluetooth mic input is not supported on Switch 2 | Only by changing how it connects, if the headset has another option |
| A wired fallback | SoundGuys reports the Logitech G435 has no wired listening option | No |
| Onboard controls when you use the cable | Sony says plugging in the cable turns off chat balance, mic mute, and volume on its PULSE 3D | Partly, through console menus |
| Replaceable parts | SoundGuys notes the Razer Kraken X has no replaceable ear pads | Rarely |
| Extras such as apps and spatial audio | Microsoft’s own headset lists an equalizer app and spatial audio | Often, through the console or PC |
Row number four is the least serious, while row five is the most serious. If you lose the mic path, then you have failed at using the product for voice chat on your console. Losing the companion app is more a question of preference. This is our own personal ranking based on these examples, and it determines how we proceed with this article.
When searching for a low-cost headset, do not start with the lowest-cost model. Instead, start with the low-cost model that meets your product’s two highest requirements from above.
Start With Your Platform, Not the Price
Each manufacturer of consoles has different rules for connecting headsets to their consoles. So, be sure to check the console’s rules before determining which models are best for you.
According to the Microsoft Support page, the Xbox Wireless Headset can connect via Bluetooth to Windows, Android, and iOS devices as well as connect wirelessly to the Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles. The support page also mentions that you can connect any compatible headsets to your Xbox via a 3.5mm jack on the controller or using the Xbox One Stereo Headset Adapter, and that the Xbox One does not support Bluetooth.
The PS5 has an error page that denies the use of Bluetooth audio devices. All headsets created by Sony must use special adapters like the PULSE 3D, which connects through a 2.4 GHz RF adapter, and the PULSE Elite, which will connect with a PlayStation Link USB adapter. Turtle Beach provides information on connecting wired headsets on the PS5 through a DualSense 3.5mm jack or USB connection.
For original Switch, Nintendo only allows Bluetooth headphone connections, through the A2DP profile and SBC codec, and doesn’t support Bluetooth microphone input. Additionally, Nintendo restricts the use of Bluetooth audio devices to a maximum of two wireless controllers. The troubleshooting steps for Switch 2 mention headsets being connected via the console’s USB-C and dock USB ports or via the console’s audio jack/ Switch 2 Pro Controller.
To connect an Xbox headset to a Windows PC, it requires either Bluetooth 4.2+ or the use of a USB-C cable. Generally, most PCs have the largest variety of connection types available.
For example, in order to select a quality gaming headset within your budget, the connection types being utilized must meet the specifications provided in the documentation for your console for both audio and voice.
The Connection Path Decides Whether Your Microphone Exists
The only way you know that a game is playing is because the sound travels to your ears, whereas your voice will travel outwards along the same connection path as the audio. Therefore, each type of connection will support audio and mic function in their own unique ways.
Bluetooth – Microsoft’s own headset info page says their Bluetooth profile is A2DP, HFP, and HSP, while RTINGS explains that when the Bluetooth Hands-Free Profile carries audio only up to 4 kHz through the mic input, the audio will only travel to a maximum of 4 kHz via the Bluetooth connection. The Nintendo Switch will only accept an A2DP connection and will not support mic input via Bluetooth. So from these three facts we can conclude that any console that only supports a listening profile will allow for audio to be sent to it, and will not permit the audio to go back to the person using it.
Dedicated Wireless Adapters – Sony’s PULSE 3D uses a dedicated wireless adaptor that connects via a proprietary 2.4GHz signal. Therefore, do not assume that if you own a 2.4GHz USB adapter, it will work with a PlayStation. According to Sony, the only Bluetooth connections supported with a PlayStation Link are those between PlayStation Link devices.
Analog – This is a very easy thing to overlook. According to Sony’s User Manual, you must connect the microphone using the 4-conductor audio cable that is provided with the headset (unless otherwise noted in the manual). As shown in the provided illustration, a stereo-only cable is not the correct type to be used. Like a standard 4-conductor plug, a stereo-only plug will have three bands on the metal end of the cable, while a stereo-only plug will only have two bands. Although this statement is specific to the Sony headset, it proves the point that an audio cable does not always necessarily support microphone transmissions. According to RTINGS, the wired SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 uses a 1/8″ TRRS style cable, which is a 4-conductor style.
Before you purchase an accessory for a specific connection type, be sure to check that the manufacturer states that the microphone works with that specific connection type; not just the audio.
Reading the SKU: When a Letter Suffix Matters and When It’s Just Paint
The letter following a model name (e.g., “P” or “X”) does not indicate the same aspect across all headset types in different product families. To ascertain the meaning for the headset you have in front of you, you must consult the respective family documentation.
One example of this discrepancy can be found within the documentation created by RTINGS. For example, SteelSeries claims that the Arctis Nova 1, Nova 1P, and Nova 1X headsets share [largely cosmetically] little more than aesthetic differences. The only version of the Nova 1 that comes with a Y-Splitter for use with a PC is the Nova 1. Also, RTINGS tested only one headset from each of the three types and, based on their experiences, they expect the performance of each of the headsets to be quite similar. As of the last time this review was updated on 01/19/2024, it is a good idea to check what comes in the box before purchasing any type of headset.
Wireless models of headsets can also be divided into different families based on the platforms they support. siege.gg provides an example of such a headset family by stating that the Turtle Beach Stealth 500 has a PlayStation version and an Xbox variant, stating that the Xbox model is compatible with Xbox, PC, Mobile, and Steam Deck. Headset family descriptions are subjective and can vary from website to website; therefore, it is safe to assume that each letter designation in a product model number does not necessarily indicate a unique wireless radio channel for that headset.
The model number specification is typically a better choice than looking solely at the product designation. For example, Sony provides unique model numbers for the PULSE 3D wireless headset and the associated adapter (CFI-ZWH1 for the adapter and CFI-ZWD1 for the headset) and includes the rating label under the left ear cup of each headset. Additionally, the PlayStation Link label is clearly printed on PlayStation Link accessory packaging.
Before making your purchase, make sure you have all four of the following pieces of information: the complete model number, the items included in the box, the way you are going to connect it, and what the manufacturer recommends regarding compatibility between that specific console and the type of connection being used. Just having a platform letter as part of the model name does not necessarily guarantee you will be able to use that headset with that platform.
The Microphone Compromise: What Cheap Mics Actually Fail At
Two common causes of failure of budget microphones and their respective solutions.
First, budget microphones often experience audio quality problems in regard to thinness (volume), muffledness (low-mid frequencies), or distortion (high frequencies). Mic recording quality is determined through five tests performed in a quiet setting: Low frequency extension, frequency response deviation, high frequency extension, weighted distortion and gain. High frequency extension has the highest correlation with speech intelligibility. Furthermore, mics that are placed closer to the mouth (boom mics) tend to pick up richer low tones. Background noise is assessed through separate means. Issues in this category can originate from the microphone itself (BT 4KHz hands free limit) or its connection and cannot be resolved externally by adjusting settings.
Second, some budget microphones simply do not have enough gain to properly amplify voices or sounds. Gain on all microphones can be adjusted either on the headset or on the connected device. If a review mentions low volume, like SoundGuys’ comments that the Turtle Beach Recon 70 has a little quiet mic or SteelSeries’ comments about the SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless having a somewhat quiet mic, you may still want to troubleshoot your quiet mic before returning it.
When considering a review, focus on the microphonics section. Check for a recorded sample, details regarding testing procedures and the date of the review’s most recent update. A recorded sample produced in a quiet environment may not necessarily reflect how the microphone performs in a loud household.
Before You Blame the Headset: Host-Side Settings That Cause “Nobody Can Hear Me”
Before returning an item, it is recommended to check the settings on your device.
Windows 11
Microsoft’s microphone troubleshooting page gives this order:
- Make sure the headset’s mute button isn’t on.
- Go to Start > Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone and confirm that microphone access is on, including for desktop apps.
- Go to Settings > System > Sound and pick the headset under “Choose a device for speaking or recording.”
- Open that device, run Start test, play back the sample, and raise the Input volume slider if your voice is quiet.
A Microsoft Q & A thread documented a Windows 10 user’s experience with a wireless headset that worked but had a low microphone volume and could not be adjusted with the slider. One respondent indicated that activating the two Exclusive Mode options within the Advanced Tab of the microphone resolved this issue; however, this solution does not represent Microsoft’s official advice.
Switch 2
The steps provided by Nintendo suggest accessing the System Settings menu; selecting Audio; selecting Audio Input; verifying that the Input Microphone selected is correct; disabling Microphone Noise Suppression; increasing the Input Volume; and conducting a Test Microphone. Additionally, Nintendo recommends unplugging the headset from the console and plugging it back in, trying each of the USB ports on the console, and checking with other players to see if they had lowered their sound levels.
PS5
According to Turtle Beach’s troubleshooting guide, the directions include Checking Settings > Sound > Microphone from your PlayStation 5, going to Sound – Mic, Adjusting your Mic Level, and Setting your Controller Headset as the Device while connected to the DualSense controller.
Comfort Is the Spec You Cannot Read Off the Box
A lightweight headset according to the specifications does not indicate how well it will feel after several hours of wear; therefore, in addition to measuring clamping force and weight of headsets, RTINGS performs fit tests on a number of individuals for each headset being tested in order to determine how a particular model’s fit would feel when worn by different individuals. Simply measuring these numerical values cannot convey how a headset fits, as fit varies from one person’s ear shape to another.
Glasses pose an additional challenge for RTINGS to accurately assess; for example, with respect to the Arctis Nova 1, RTINGS found that wearing thick glasses or hair could potentially break the ear cup seal, and therefore, reduce the amount of bass you hear from your headset, meaning that if you were to listen to that same headset again, you might notice a difference in the way it sounded compared to when it was originally reviewed.
Discomfort also tends to build slowly. In a ResetEra thread, one user described pressure building gradually and gave rough times for each pair: about 30 minutes in a HyperX Cloud II and about 100 minutes in a HyperX Cloud Stinger. The user also said recovery took about an hour, so short breaks didn’t help. That’s one person’s tolerance, not a benchmark, but it shows why a few minutes in a store can mislead you.
According to the manual for Sony products, if you experience any discomfort or pain after using your headset for a certain period of time, you are encouraged to take a break from using it by taking a break every 15 minutes.
The only accurate comparison for weight data is when it is obtained directly from manufacturer. The headset manufactured by Microsoft has been listed as weighing 11 oz (320 G) and the headset manufactured by Sony as the PULSE 3D has been listed as approximately 10.3 oz. (292 G). Comfort level is not a universal standard but rather subjective to the individual. If you’re considering purchasing a headset, review the manufacturer’s return policies, to ensure the comfort you desire, try to wear it through a full session before the expiration date of returns.
Sound Quality: Which Audio Compromises You’ll Notice, and Which You Won’t
The definition of “spec,” “test results” and “personal preference” are all three distinct terms.
A spec is a description of what is in a product (features and parts). The Microsoft Headset’s specs state it has speakers rated for 20 Hz to 20 kHz and have 40 mm (1.6-inch) speakers; however, because they are from the manufacturer, they are not indicative of how you will feel/experience sound from the headset.
Test results indicate one tested unit under specified conditions; for example, RTINGS rated the Arctis Nova 1 as having a warm sound profile and a treble dip, making it difficult to discern details. SoundGuys found that the G435 under-emphasizes sub-bass and that this deficiency might be an advantage when playing competitively; they also state that Logitech provided them with their review model.
You might not need to pay for Virtual Surround because SoundGuys noted the G435 does not have any software-based surround capabilities; thus, most gaming platforms have their own. According to the Sony guidelines, PULSE 3D will be 3D compatible with PS5 if the game supports it.
Headphones plus a separate mic
If you are trying to get the best value (best budget) on gaming headphones and looking to add a microphone to your setup, a PC is the easiest way to accomplish this; as Windows allows you to select the recording device independently of the output. If you plan to use a console, you must confirm whether the microphone you will be using is compatible before committing.
Build, Cables and the Parts That Break First
For example, the Sony manual provides a good insight into how quickly multiples of the same design will fail. They inform owners not to hang their headsets by the headband strap; the strap could become stretched and loosen the fit over time. The manual also points out that the earpads can be removed from and reattached to the headset. Additionally, Sony does not intend for the consumer to replace the built-in battery. Instead, the company provides a one year warranty for the device.
Reviews show what can and can’t be replaced on individual models:
- Detachable cable. RTINGS notes the Arctis Nova 1’s cable is detachable, so you can replace it if it gets damaged.
- Fixed parts. SoundGuys says the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 has no detachable parts and a fixed boom mic. It says the Kraken X lacks replaceable ear pads.
- Replaceable parts. SoundGuys says the Astro A10 (Gen 2) has a detachable cable and replaceable padding.
We also have no data on how often the various types of headsets with these elements fail. Additionally, we believe there is a basic principle to follow when determining if a headset has replaceable parts: If a part can be removed or separated from the headset (for example, through a cable or an earpad), that means it can be replaced; but if a part is permanently attached to the headset, it probably will not be replaced if it becomes unusable. If you own a headset with permanently attached cables or earpads, your entire headset is likely to fail when one of those components wears out.
Wireless on a Budget: Battery, the Adaptor You Must Not Lose, and What You Give Up
To function properly, a wireless headset requires operation from three separate components: battery, adapter, and radio.
When using batteries, it is important to read the manufacturer’s documentation because there may be some disclaimers within that information. Microsoft states that its headsets will last approximately 20 hours per charge on a full charge, and that charging for 30 minutes will yield around 4 hours of battery life. However, in fine print, Microsoft explains that “battery life is subject to significant variability,” because Microsoft used prototype units during its pre-production testing. The Sony’s PULSE 3D states that on average it will provide up to 12 hours of battery life at mid-level volume; however, as batteries age, the battery life decreases, especially with frequent use of the battery. A manufacturer may report different battery life from an independent testing facility due to several variables involved. For example, SoundGuys completed a test of the G435 model and determined that the G435 lasted a total of 24 hours and 15 minutes, which exceeded Logitech’s stated battery life of 18 hours.
Since the adapter is small, it is easy to misplace, and replacing it can be difficult. SoundGuys indicates that Logitech does not provide replacement dongles for the G435 headset; however, SoundGuys further defines that it is possible to use a spare LIGHTSPEED dongle from another Logitech headset to pair with the G435. Also, the G435 cannot be used with both a dongle and Bluetooth simultaneously.
Like the attachment, the range of wireless headphones has limitations. Sony states that the headsets have a range of approximately 10 m (33 ft); however, it should be noted that obstacle interference (walls or electronic devices) can affect range. Once the headset disconnected from the adapter, it will turn off after five minutes.
Using a wire to connect to a wireless headset sacrifices some of the features available to a user. For example, attaching a cable to the PULSE 3D will deactivate the mic mute, mic monitoring and the chat balance function.
The Platform-SKU and Compromise Checklist
As you make your decision, have this checklist visible next to the product page.
Part A: Platform paths documented by the console makers
| Platform | Paths the maker documents | Bluetooth headset mic |
|---|---|---|
| Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One | Direct wireless pairing for Xbox Wireless Headset; 3.5 mm on controller; Stereo Headset Adapter | Microsoft lists Bluetooth only for PC and phones; Xbox One has no Bluetooth |
| PS5 | The headset’s own adapter (2.4 GHz or PS Link); DualSense jack or USB per Turtle Beach | Bluetooth audio device not compatible |
| Switch | Bluetooth audio via A2DP/SBC | Not supported |
| Switch 2 | USB-C, dock USB, console or Pro Controller jack | Listen-only |
| Windows PC | Bluetooth, USB, adapters, 3.5 mm; input chosen in Sound settings | Supported; check input device and volume |
Part B: Seven checks on the product page
- Mode. Does the listing name your console for the exact connection you’ll use, not just for “wired”?
- Mic. Does it say the mic works on that connection, separately from the audio?
- Model number. Does the full model number match your platform, rather than just the product name?
- Box contents. Is the required adapter or cable included, or sold separately?
- Cable type. If you’ll use analog, does the maker say the cable carries the mic? Sony’s stereo-only example shows why this matters.
- Fallback. If the wireless mode doesn’t work on your console, is there a wired input at all?
- Claims. For any mic or sound claim, who tested it, and when?
Part C: What to give up first (our judgment)
We have synthesized the sections of this article into our editorial product selection; please do not treat the article’s product selections as definitive. Start with lighting, branded surrounds, and app accessories as they are typically provided by consoles and PCs. Then go to wireless because of batteries and capability to lose/break the USB adapter. Next come the documented mic path and the comfort of the headset (make sure you try it on before deciding). Finally, choose a model that provides for replacement parts.
Part D: Before you return it
Complete the platform steps in the “Before Blaming the Headset” section.
How to Tell Whether a “Best Budget Headset” List Is Actually Advice
A ranked list may be helpful; however, there are four checks you should perform to ensure you can trust the rankings.
Disclosure. According to guidance issued by the Federal Trade Commission, connections that are considered significant would not normally be expected by a substantial percentage of consumers must be clearly and conspicuously disclosed. The guidance also made it clear that these guides can’t be used alone as legal basis for supporting determinations made by FTC staff concerning the legality or appropriateness of any advertising claim. As an example, RTINGS states in its policy that it may earn an affiliate commission for referring users to purchase products through its site. A commission does not render a review invalid and indicates that you should look for evidence of testing behind the selections.
Conflicting Claims. On its G435 product page, dated 10/06/2026, Logitech claims that their products support compatibility with Xbox, PlayStation 5, PC, and Nintendo Switch. SoundGuys’ review of the same product statement states there will not be a way to play with Xbox consoles. Therefore, it should be noted that we were unable to determine whether the compatibility claims are accurately represented on the Logitech product page. If you are interested in purchasing a specific console version of Logitech’s headsets, it would advisable to contact the seller or the manufacturer prior to making a purchase to confirm which cable supports chat on your specific console.
Consistency between pricing and specifications. On the SoundGuys low-priced headset list for 10/06/2026, Turtle Beach’s Recon 200 Gen 2 is listed as being priced at “219 dollars” next to the statement “for only 59 dollars”. siege.gg’s 05/08/2026 guide indicates the RIG 400 Gen 2 headset is 249 g (8.8 oz) on the product specification card and “approximately 230 g” (8.1 oz) in the body of the text. The Siege guide has put compatibility within the overall criteria for ranking, last place on their list. The conflicting pieces of information are why it is important to double-check the specs on the manufacturer’s website.
What is right about the list. Checking for whether the headset is “designed for” or “compatible with” the associated platform is good advice based on SoundGuys’ recommendations.
The Budget Headset Line
If the manufacturer documents that your console supports the microphone of the budget gaming headset at the connection you’ll be using, then that headset is worth the price of admission. Verify that the model number and contents of the packaging before comparing sound quality and price. Once the microphone connection can be confirmed, comfort and the ability to replace parts determines if you are getting your money’s worth. If the connection is not confirmed, a low price will not save you anything.
Budget Gaming Headset FAQ
Can I hear Switch 2 GameChat through Bluetooth headphones and talk through a separate mic?
According to Nintendo, Bluetooth devices attached to the Switch 2 will be able to provide audio via GameChat; however, the devices do not allow for the use of a mic via Bluetooth. This is mentioned separately for a wired mic, found under Audio Input settings. As of now, there is no mention of the two being able to work together; to test your equipment, refer to Nintendo’s document Test Microphone.
Can two people use PULSE 3D headsets on one PS5?
According to Sony’s instruction manual, two PULSE 3D wireless headsets can be connected at the same time to a PS5 or PS4. Each PULSE 3D wireless headset must have its own PULSE 3D USB dongle connected to one of the USB ports on the console.
Does the Xbox Wireless Headset work on Xbox One?
Microsoft supports that the Xbox One can connect directly to the Xbox Wireless Headset and provides a wireless connection via the Xbox Wireless Headset’s hardware. Microsoft also clarifies that Xbox One consoles do not have Bluetooth technology.
Can I use a PULSE 3D headset on a PC?
Sony supports how the CHAT/GAME balance feature on the PULSE 3D headset only works with the PS5 and PS4 consoles if the adapter is plugged into either a compatible USB-A port connected to a Windows PC or Mac. An audio cable connected to a PULSE 3D headset will disable the on-board controls of the headset.
Will a PlayStation Link headset pair with an older PlayStation adapter?
Sony states the PlayStation Link connections only work between PlayStation Link devices. Look for the PS Link logo on the package. If you buy an older headset with a 2.4 GHz adapter (like the PULSE 3D headset), make sure to verify it has a PS Link logo before trying to set it up.
