Best Gaming Headset Under $100 – Complete Guide | ExtensivelyReviewed


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Along with high-speed and lag-free internet, and an excellent gaming router, nothing else will make the gaming experience more realistic than immersion into the sounds of the game. It gives you that eerie feeling when your character enters a haunted mansion, or pumps you up when attacking your enemy’s base. It also alerts you to any approaching danger which makes you feel cautious yourself. It adds to the elation that you feel when you have defeated your enemies in the game. It makes you feel like you are in the game yourself and not just some outsider who influences the game’s outcome. Gaming sound enriches the experience for a gamer and makes it more exciting and enjoyable. On a budget? No worries, this article only looks at the best gaming headsets for under $100.

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Finding the Best Gaming Headset

Due to the important role of sound in gaming, it is very important to invest in the right headset. A headset that is just not up to par can destroy even the best gaming sounds. Thus, when selecting a gaming headset, there are a few things that one must consider to make sure that they will get the most out of their money. The very first thing that you must take into account is your gaming platform. A gaming headset is not always compatible with every available platform so it is quite possible that it may work well in one but it may not be quite as effective when used in another. To maximize your gaming experience, ensure that your gaming headset is suitable with your gaming platform. If you already know exactly which consoles you will be playing with, you’re off to a better start than most. Check out our best gaming headsets for PS4 or Xbox One.

Playing games is very enjoyable; one can play for hours without noticing it. However, wearing a headset for long hours can take a toll on one’s ears and ruin one’s gaming experience. Thus, it is also important to consider if your gaming headset is comfortable to wear. Gaming headsets which are usually comfortable to wear are those which are constructed using light materials. You won’t usually notice that you are wearing this type of headset which will allow you to focus more in the game. Nevertheless, the feeling of comfort is quite subjective. It is still best to try a headset on before buying it to ensure that it is a perfect fit for you.

Gaming is not always a solitary activity and in cases where you need to communicate with other players, it is important to have a built-in microphone in your headset. The best microphones are those which have a noise cancellation feature to ensure that the person you are talking to can clearly hear what you are saying. On the other hand, if you are playing on your own, you do not need to use the microphone and it may just get in your way. Your headset should also be designed in such a way that the microphone arm can be adjusted for cases like this.

In addition, you need to take into consideration whether you prefer an open or a closed headset. If you wanted to maintain awareness of your surroundings while playing a game, an open headset may be your best choice since its design allows a little background noise to seep in. It is also said that the extra air flow improves audio fidelity which provides a natural listening experience to the user. Some people also find open headsets to be more comfortable than closed ones. On the other hand, if you prefer to be totally immersed in the game then you should get a closed headset instead. Its design filters background noise which prevents distractions and allows the user to hear even the slightest details of the gaming sound.

One must also look for durability in a gaming headset. It is quite inconvenient and a waste of money if your headset is easily broken that’s why your headset should not only be stylish but also strong and durable. Headsets built with top quality materials are usually those which are built to last. Furthermore, spare parts can greatly contribute to the life span of your device. It is important that these are built with high quality materials as well and can be repaired in service centers.

Most importantly, a gaming headset should have great sound reproduction so that one will be able to hear everything with perfect clarity. Muffled or grating sounds are very irritating to hear so this is definitely a must-have feature of your headset.

With these headset qualities in mind, you might already be wondering which headsets were able to hit the mark. Fasten up your seat belts folks! Here are some of the best gaming headsets under $100 that professional and casual gamers alike will want to get their hands on.

1. Kingston HyperX Cloud Gaming Headset Review

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Gaming headsets usually have flashy and outrageous designs. If that kind of design does not suit your tastes then you might find the reserved design of Kingston HyperX Cloud gaming headset more to your liking. Its exterior has a brushed metal finish with subtle logos and black color scheme while its ear cushions, which are available in leatherette and velour, are made of memory foam. This allows users to play games for long hours without any discomfort.

It is a stereo sound headset with 53mm drivers which delivers powerful and detailed audio sound. Its punchy low ends and sprightly high-ends make it best for gaming. For those PC and Mac users who prefer surround sound over stereo sound, the Kingston HyperX Cloud gaming headset has a 7.1-channel virtual surround sound feature which is available through the USB sound card. Although it does not have active noise cancellation like other headsets in the market, its closed design is more than enough to keep out any external noise.

Unlike most headsets which have in-line controls, the controls of the Kingston HyperX Cloud gaming headset is in the USB sound card. This practical design helps prevent any accidental button presses while adjusting the headset. Another great feature that it has is its detachable microphone which allows you to get it out of the way if you do not need to use it. It also has added accessories such as a carry case and an airline adaptor.

With its great stereo sound reproduction, compatibility with major gaming platforms, detachable microphone and 7.1-channel virtual surround sound feature, the Kingston HyperX Cloud gaming headset is definitely one of the best gaming headsets under $100. It focused more on giving every feature that a gamer can possibly look for in a gaming headset.

2. SteelSeries Arctis 5 RGB Illuminated Gaming Headset Review

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Sweaty ears due to prolonged gaming? The SteelSeries Arctis 5 RGB Illuminated Gaming Headset guarantees that you will never get them. This headset is made of black plastic with the headband and ear cups covered with comfortable and breathable fabric. The soft faux leather material on the top is stitched with light blue thread which adds a cool touch to it. It sits firmly on the head without causing discomfort and you won’t really notice that you are wearing it at its weight of 231 grams.

It has a volume controller that is connected to the headset through a 1 meter cord with a 3.5mm jack which allows it to be used as a headset. Want to use it with a console? No problem. It has a 3m cable that is also connected to the volume controller for that purpose. In addition, the cable can also be attached to your phone which allows you to answer calls while playing. Cool, huh?

With its noise cancelling cups, the audio produced by SteelSeries Arctis 5 RGB Illuminated Gaming Headset’s 50mm speaker drivers is simply marvelous. Its virtual surround sound perfectly recreates the gaming sounds that makes you feel like you are right in the middle of the action. At full volume, the audio has no distortions with a perfectly balanced bass. It has an inline amplifier and a control panel that allows you to adjust volume and microphone settings, among others.

The SteelSeries Arctis 5 RGB Illuminated gaming headset has a sponge-covered microphone that is at the end of a thin but flexible metal. It can be adjusted according to the purpose of the user and stays in one place. One must take note, however, that this headset is only compatible with PC, PS$, PS4, Xbox 360 and Xbox One.

It may cost less than $100 but it performs just like the more expensive, high quality headsets. So if you want to get more for your money, the SteelSeries Arctis 5 RGB Illuminated Gaming Headset is definitely the headset for you.

3. Logitech G430 Surround Sound Gaming Headset with Dolby 7.1 Technology Review

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Black is the “in” color among gaming headsets. However, seeing only black color on gaming headsets is becoming quite dull for some which makes the bright topaz blue color of the Logitech G430 Surround Sound Gaming Headset with Dolby 7.1 Technology a refreshing sight. Its ear pads are covered with porous cloth which resists ear and head perspiration effectively. One can easily remove the ear pads and replace them if they got worn out or wash them if they got dirty. The ear cups can be adjusted for a personalized fit and can be rotated for 90 degrees which makes it easier to transport. This feature also allows more comfort for the user should he/she decide to let it rest around the neck. The Logitech G430 surround sound gaming headset has a noise-cancelling microphone that can be adjusted in two ways. You can move the microphone away from your mouth in cases where you don’t need to use it or bend it closer to your mouth so that you can be heard by the other players clearly. It a so comes with an 8-feet braided cable with a Velcro strap to adjust its length as necessary. This is also where the in line controls are placed so that the users can conveniently adjust the volume and mute the microphone. It forks off into separate 3.5mm jacks which can be directly connected to your gaming platform. If your platform has no dedicated ports then you can use the USB adapter that is also provided along with the headset.

Its 40mm drivers deliver detailed sounds as well as superb positional audio. In addition to that, it has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20KHz, 32 Ohms of impedance and sensitivity at 90dB SPL/mW. The audio is clear and crisp at any volume level with clear mids and highs. It even has a software suite which allows you to finely tune your headset to your specifications.

Priced under $100, the Logitech G430 Surround Sound Gaming Headset with Dolby 7.1 Technology is certainly a great bargain. No gamer can ask for anything more as this superb headset delivers more than what it promises.

4. ZPS Sades Stereo 7.1 Surround Pro USB Gaming Headset Review

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Looking for an ultra-cool headset that delivers superb audio quality? Good news! Consistent to its mission to provide great products at the lowest possible price, ZPS has created a headset that will not only satisfy your gaming needs but also your aesthetics.

The ZPS Sades Stereo 7.1 Surround Pro USB Gaming Headset has four unique headbands which are made out of soft leather cushion which makes it comfortable to wear even for long hours of gaming. The ear pads, which are also made out of the same material as the headband, have a circumaural design which naturally and effectively cancels out background noise. It can also pivot to adjust to your face accordingly.

People have different head sizes which is why some headsets may provide a perfect fit for some but not on others. The ZPS Sades Stereo 7.1 Surround Pro USB Gaming Headset has the perfect solution to this dilemma as it is possible to adjust the height of its headband for that personalized fit. Once you found the right fit, it is does not slide in your head with every movement which allows for greater flexibility. Not using the microphone? Just retract it and it is out of your way.

At times, the headset’s weight can be a distraction which can be very irritating. Despite its bulky look, the ZPS Sades Stereo 7.1 Surround Pro USB Gaming Headset is actually quite light, which lets you focus more on your game. In addition, it is built with top quality materials which guarantee durability.

This stylish headpiece has a 7.1 USB sound card that delivers exceptional audio clarity as well as the best surround sound that has separate adjustable levels. You can also adjust the volume and microphone using its little in line remote control.

If style is as important to you as superb gaming sound then you should really try out the ZPS Sades Stereo 7.1 Surround Pro USB Gaming Headset. Definitely a conversation starter, its design definitely stands out.

5. Corsair Vengeance 2100 Wireless Dolby 7.1 Gaming Headset Review

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The Corsair Vengeance 2100 Wireless Dolby 7.1 Gaming Headset boasts a solid build that is complemented by a subdued industrial design. However, despite how heavy it looks, it is actually quite light when worn. Weighing at around 325g, you may not notice that you are actually wearing it. Another good thing about it is that it can withstand rough handling with its robust hinges. It also has soft fabric covering the ear cups which can absorb sweat and does not cause skin irritation. It also has a nice fit and the way it clamps your head will not cause any discomfort.

It features 50mm drivers with a wide range of volume. This is definitely a great feature especially for those gamers who love greater amplification. Sound distortion is non-existent even at the highest volumes. An integrated volume reel controls the system volume independently. The Dolby Surround Sound is truly exceptional but those who prefer stereo sound can still get it by adjusting the settings. You can also clearly hear the deep lows, mid and higher tones sound effects.

There is already a non-changeable battery integrated in the Corsair Vengeance 2100 Wireless Dolby 7.1 Gaming Headset which can last up to 10 hours of play time. It comes with a 1.5m cable which can be used to charge the battery once it runs out. The distance of the microphone from your mouth can be adjusted which allows you to find it optimum position. The best thing about this headset? You get all these amazing features for a low price!

Even if you have a budget in mind, you won’t have to sacrifice the quality of your headset. The Corsair Vengeance 2100 Wireless Dolby 7.1 Gaming Headset has great features which promise great gaming experience without burning a hole in your pocket.

Need something wireless with better console compatibility? Feel free to check out our other guide for the Best Wireless Gaming Headsets.

6. Razer Kraken PRO Over Ear PC and Music Headset Review

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It is often said that less is more and this is also true when it comes to gaming headsets. Most headsets have added functionality and features to attract possible customers. However, when one drills down to it, what a gamer is truly looking for in a headset is its compatibility with the gaming platform and crystal clear audio input and output. If you are one of those gamers who really don’t care for added functions as long as your headset does its job then the Razer Kraken PRO Over Ear PC and Music Headset may be the best option for you.

The Razer Kraken PRO Over Ear PC and Music Headset comes in black or neon green versions which are certain to catch everyone’s attention. It has large ear cups with memory foam which allows the headset to fit snugly in your head without any discomfort. Aside from ensuring comfort, the ear cups can also fold inwardly for better storage during travels. The underside of the headband has the same material as the ear cups and the microphone has a bendable arm.

The headset comes with a 4.3ft cable that ends in a 3.5mm audio connector which is great for smartphones and tablets. It also has a 6.6ft adapter which forks into two 3.5mm connectors at the end for PC use.

The Razer Kraken PRO Over Ear PC and Music Headset has 40mm stereo drivers that have awesome bass power. Turning up the volume to its highest level does not cause any sound distortion either.

Comfortability, great sound reproduction and an attention grabbing design: these are the strengths of Razer Kraken PRO Over Ear PC and Music Headset. Its analog design makes it easier to use with any gaming platform compared to other headsets since you will not need to install anything. This basic and powerful headset may be the epitome of simplicity but it can’t also be beat.

Best Budget Gaming Headset

These are some of the best budget gaming headsets that you can buy for less than $100. You don’t really have to pay a high price for quality products; you just need to know what and where to look for. So which gaming headset do you think will best suit your preferences?

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