Best Gaming Headsets Under $200 (2024)

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.

Last update on 2024-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

1. SteelSeries Arctis 7 – Lossless Wireless Gaming Headset with DTS Headphone: X v2.0 Surround – For PC and PlayStation 4 – White

SteelSeries Arctis 7 - Lossless Wireless Gaming Headset with DTS Headphone: X v2.0 Surround - For PC...
  • Designed for gaming, the 2.4 grams connection delivers rock solid, lossless wireless audio with ultra-low latency and 0 interference
  • Widely recognized as the best mic in gaming, the discord certified clear cast microphone delivers studio quality voice clarity and background noise...
  • Sound is your competitive advantage with the s1 speaker drivers, engineered to produce ultra-low distortion audio so you hear every detail
  • Immerse yourself in 360 degrees of precision audio with next generation DTS headphone: x v2.0 7.1 surround sound (pc only). Microphone frequency...
  • 24 hour battery life gives you enough continuous play for even your longest gaming sessions; Microphone sensitivity: 38 dB

Last update on 2024-03-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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

Razer Kraken Tournament Edition THX 7.1 Surround Sound Gaming Headset: Retractable Noise Cancelling...
  • THX 7.1 Surround Sound Capable: Provides industry-leading audio realism for in-game immersion by providing accurate spatial audio information beyond...
  • Sound Built for Immersive Gaming: Outfitted with custom-tuned 50 mm drivers
  • All-day Comfort: Oval, cooling gel-infused cushions that prevent overheating and pressure build-up
  • Retractable Noise Cancelling Microphone: An improved cardioid mic reduces background and ambient noises for crystal-clear communication
  • In-line Audio Controls: Includes an analog volume control wheel and mic mute switch

Last update on 2024-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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

Last update on 2024-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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

SteelSeries Arctis 9X Wireless Gaming Headset – Integrated-Xbox Wireless + Bluetooth – 20+ Hour...
  • Integrated Xbox Wireless connectivity: Connect directly to your Xbox Series XS or Xbox One just like a wireless controller, and start gaming in...
  • Bluetooth: Simultaneously connects to Bluetooth and Xbox to mix in music and take calls while gaming, or use wirelessly on the go with your mobile...
  • Clearcast Microphone: The Arctis mic uses a bidirectional design, the same used by aircraft carrier deck crews, for superior noise Cancellation so...
  • Award-winning sound: The award-winning soundscape of Arctis emphasizes subtle, yet critical sounds to give you an audio advantage
  • 20 Plus Hour battery: A brand new Chipset designed specifically for Xbox with superior audio quality and dual-wireless support and optimized for...

Last update on 2024-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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

HyperX Cloud II - Gaming Headset, 7.1 Surround Sound, Memory Foam Ear Pads, Durable Aluminum Frame,...
  • 15-25kKhz Frequency Response.Headphones fit type:Over-Ear.Note : If the size of the earbud tips does not match the size of your ear canals or the...
  • Designed for comfort: Exceptionally comfortable memory foam ear cushions and padded leatherette headband help keep you focused on gaming
  • Supreme audio quality: Large 53 millimeter drivers provide high-quality audio. Hear in-game details better and get the in-game advantage on your...
  • 7.1 virtual surround sound: Truly immerse yourself in your games with hardware-driven virtual 7.1 surround sound for precisely located audio
  • Passive noise cancellation: The closed ear cup design blocks out outside distractions to keep you in the game

Last update on 2024-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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?