When you hear “gaming headset,” you might imagine fancy, glowing headphones with powerful surround sound and a crystal-clear microphone.
But what if I told you that you can grab one for just a few dollars at 5 Below, the discount retailer known for selling fun and useful products at super affordable prices?
If you’re on a budget, a student, or just curious about whether a headset that costs $5–$10 can actually deliver a decent gaming experience, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
We’ll cover what 5 Below offers, what you can realistically expect, how these headsets compare to more expensive options, and whether they’re the right fit for your gaming setup.
What Is 5 Below?
Before moving into the headsets, let’s talk about the store itself.
5 Below is a popular retail chain in the United States that sells a wide range of products: snacks, toys, tech gadgets, home items, beauty products, and seasonal decorations, most priced between $1 and $5. In recent years, they’ve also introduced a “Five Beyond” section with items priced up to around $10–$25.
That’s why you can now find affordable tech gear there, including gaming accessories like keyboards, mice, speakers, and yes, gaming headsets.
What Types of Gaming Headsets Does 5 Below Sell?
As of 2025, 5 Below typically offers a rotating selection of budget-friendly gaming headsets. Some examples include:
- Basic Wired Gaming Headsets (around $5–$7): These usually have cushioned ear pads, a headband, and a wired 3.5mm connection. They often include a boom microphone for voice chat.
- LED Light-Up Headsets (around $10): These are a little flashier, often featuring color-changing LED lights and a sturdier design.
- Over-Ear Headsets With Adjustable Mics: Designed to mimic the look of higher-end gaming headsets but at a fraction of the cost.
Because 5 Below rotates inventory often, you may not always see the same model online or in stores. But you can generally expect entry-level wired headsets designed for casual gamers.
What Can You Expect in Terms of Quality?
Here’s the truth: a $5 headset will not perform like a $100 headset. That’s not to say it’s useless; it depends on what you need.
1. Sound Quality
- 5 Below headsets usually deliver basic stereo sound.
- Great for casual gaming, listening to music, or watching YouTube.
- Not designed for immersive surround sound or professional audio editing.
2. Microphone Performance
- Most come with a boom mic or built-in mic.
- Good enough for chatting with friends on Discord, Xbox Live, or PlayStation Party Chat.
- Not the best for streaming, podcasts, or competitive eSports communication.
3. Build Quality
- Lightweight plastic is common.
- Comfortable for short sessions, but may feel less durable than premium brands.
- Padding is thinner compared to pricier options, which may affect comfort during long gaming marathons.
4. Compatibility
- Most use a 3.5mm jack, making them compatible with:
- PCs
- PlayStation and Xbox controllers
- Nintendo Switch
- Tablets and phones (with headphone jacks or adapters)
5. Style Factor
- Many feature fun LED lights and gamer-inspired designs.
- Kids and casual gamers may love the look, even if performance is modest.
Who Should Buy a Gaming Headset at 5 Below?
Not every gamer needs a $200 headset. In fact, for many people, a budget headset makes more sense. Here’s who might benefit most:
- Kids and Teens: Parents often prefer a low-cost headset in case it gets broken or lost.
- Casual Gamers: If you only play a few times a week, you may not need premium sound.
- First-Time Gamers: A great starter option before deciding whether to invest in higher-end gear.
- Budget-Conscious Shoppers: Perfect for anyone who wants functional audio without overspending.
- Backup Headset Users: Even serious gamers may keep a cheap backup in case their main one breaks.
Who Might Want to Skip It?
On the other hand, a 5 Below headset may not be ideal if:
- You’re a competitive gamer who relies on directional audio to gain an edge.
- You’re a content creator or streamer who needs professional-grade sound and voice quality.
- You plan on using the headset for hours every day; comfort and durability might not last long-term.
Pros and Cons of Gaming Headsets at 5 Below
Here’s a simple breakdown:
Pros
- Extremely affordable ($5–$10).
- Works on most gaming systems.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Fun designs, sometimes with LED lights.
- Good entry-level option.
Cons
- Average sound quality.
- Mic can sound muffled or quiet.
- Durability is limited.
- Not ideal for long sessions or pro gaming.
How Do They Compare to More Expensive Headsets?
Let’s compare 5 Below headsets to mid-range ($50–$100) and high-end ($150+) options.
Feature | 5 Below Headset | Mid-Range Gaming Headset | High-End Gaming Headset |
---|---|---|---|
Price | $5–$10 | $50–$100 | $150+ |
Sound | Basic stereo | Surround sound, clear bass | Professional-grade, 7.1 surround |
Mic | Functional, basic clarity | Noise-canceling, clear | Broadcast-quality, detachable |
Comfort | Light padding | Memory foam, adjustable | Premium materials |
Durability | Plastic, light use | Durable plastic & metal | High-grade, long-lasting |
Best For | Kids, casual gamers | Regular gamers | Competitive/pro gamers |
Tips for Getting the Most Out of a 5 Below Gaming Headset
- Handle with care: Lightweight plastic can break if tossed around.
- Use for casual play: Perfect for Minecraft, Roblox, Fortnite, or chatting with friends.
- Keep as a backup: Even if you upgrade, it’s handy to have a spare.
- Pair with budget accessories: 5 Below also sells mice, keyboards, and mousepads, which can build a full budget-friendly setup.
Alternatives to 5 Below Headsets
If you’re still hesitant, here are a few affordable alternatives:
- Kotion Each G2000 (around $25) – Popular entry-level gaming headset.
- HyperX Cloud Stinger (around $40) – Comfortable and durable with good sound.
- Logitech G432 (around $50) – Solid mid-range choice with surround sound.
Are Gaming Headsets at 5 Below Worth It?
Yes—if you know what to expect.
A gaming headset at 5 Below is not meant to compete with professional gaming gear, but it does its job for a fraction of the price. For kids, casual gamers, or anyone testing the waters, it’s a fantastic budget pick.
If you’re a competitive gamer, streamer, or someone who spends hours gaming every day, you’ll eventually want to invest in something higher quality. But as a starter headset or backup option, 5 Below offers an unbeatable deal.
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