Our Favorite Budget Gaming Headset Is Down to $25

the SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wired is our favorite gaming headset under $50—and not just because we’re a little biased with the product name. Right now, it’s on sale for just $25, a match of a record-low price we’ve seen just once before. It typically costs $50. It was already an affordable pair of cans, but this discount makes it a no-brainer for anyone in the market for a headset with a microphone attachment.

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Why We Love the Arctis 1

SteelSeries Arctis headset with cords and dongles — Photograph: SteelSeries

This wired headset isn’t the sleekest or newest on the market, but WIRED reviewer Jaina Grey says it “feels and sounds more expensive than it is“. It works with any console or gadget that has a 3.5-mm headphone connection, including the PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC. There’s no wireless connectivity, so if you want a Bluetooth version, go for the SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless (also one of our top picks, but it’s not on sale).

The microphone is removable—handy when you don’t want it getting in the way—the earcups are comfortable, and the audio quality is clear and robust. The ultra-low price is icing on the cake. Keep in mind that this deal may not last very long, since the price is significantly lower than usual.

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