NUBWO U3 Gaming Headset UK Review: The £15 Budget Champion?
I’ll admit, when I first saw the NUBWO U3 Gaming Headset UK listed at £15.39, I was properly sceptical. After years of testing gaming headsets, I’ve learned that anything under £20 usually means you’re in for a world of pain, literally and figuratively. The sort of headset that sounds like you’re underwater, crushes your skull after twenty minutes, and makes you sound like a robot to your mates on Discord.
NUBWO U3 3.5mm Gaming Headset for PC, PS4, PS5, Laptop, Xbox One, Mac, iPad, NS Games, Computer Game Gamer Over Ear Flexible Microphone Volume Control with Mic - Black
- 🎮 Universal Compatibility: Experience universal compatibility with this premium gaming headset, designed to work seamlessly with PS5, PS4, Xbox 1, PC, NS, laptop, computer, and mobile phone. Please note that an extra Microsoft Adapter (not included) is required for use with an old version Xbox 1 controller.
- 🔊 Superior Sound Quality: Enjoy superior sound quality with high-fidelity stereo and intelligent extreme bass enhancement, delivering an exceptional audio experience with these gaming headphones.
- 🎙️ Crystal-Clear Communication: The flexible noise-canceling microphone ensures crystal-clear communication with teammates, eliminating background noise for optimal performance in your headset with mic.
- 🛏️ Ultimate Comfort: Featuring soft, skin-friendly cloth ear pads and an ergonomically adjustable headband, this gaming headset is designed for maximum comfort during extended gaming sessions.
- 🔈 Seamless Controls: Easily adjust volume and switch to mute mode for a seamless and intuitive user experience with these gaming headphones.
Price checked: 10 Jan 2026 | Affiliate link
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But here’s the thing: with over 20,000 reviews and a solid 4.2-star rating, I couldn’t ignore the NUBWO U3. So I spent three weeks putting it through its paces during marathon gaming sessions, voice chat testing, and even some music listening to see if this budget headset could actually deliver something worth recommending.
Spoiler: I was genuinely surprised.
Key Takeaways
- Best for: Budget-conscious gamers who need basic, reliable audio without the premium price tag
- Price: £15.39 (exceptional value for what you get)
- Rating: 4.2/5 from 20,469 verified buyers
- Standout: Shockingly decent comfort and mic quality at this price point
The NUBWO U3 Gaming Headset UK is a proper budget winner that punches well above its weight class. At £15.39, it delivers surprisingly good comfort, clear voice chat, and adequate gaming audio that makes it brilliant for casual gamers or anyone who doesn’t want to spend a fortune. It won’t compete with £100+ headsets, but it’s not trying to.
If you’re after a no-nonsense gaming headset that won’t break the bank, the NUBWO U3 deserves serious consideration. NUBWO U3 3.5mm Gaming Headset for PC, PS4, PS5, Laptop, Xbox One, Mac, iPad, NS Games, Computer Game Gamer Over Ear Flexible Microphone Volume Control with Mic - Black
Long Session Comfort: The Pleasant Surprise
Right, let’s start with what actually matters most: can you wear this thing for more than an hour without wanting to rip it off your head? Because I’ve tested £150 headsets that felt like medieval torture devices after two hours.
I wore the NUBWO U3 for a proper six-hour gaming marathon on a Saturday, mixing between Apex Legends, some co-op Elden Ring, and a bit of Cities: Skylines when I needed to calm down after getting absolutely destroyed in ranked. And honestly? I was shocked at how comfortable this headset remained throughout.
The ear cups use cloth padding rather than leatherette, which I initially thought was a cost-cutting measure. Turns out, it’s actually a blessing. My ears didn’t get sweaty or hot, even during intense gaming sessions. The memory foam inside is decent quality too, not that rock-hard stuff you sometimes get on budget headsets that compresses into nothing after a week.
Clamping force is spot on. This is crucial and so many manufacturers get it wrong. Too tight and you’ll have a headache within the hour. Too loose and the headset slides around. The NUBWO U3 sits firmly without feeling like it’s trying to squeeze your brain out through your ears. I wear glasses, and there was no painful pressure on the arms, which is a common problem I’ve had with headsets that cost three times as much.
The headband is adjustable and has enough padding to distribute weight evenly. At 280 grams, it’s not the lightest headset I’ve tested, but it’s far from heavy. For comparison, the Logitech G733 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset weighs 278 grams and costs about fifteen times more.
Here’s a specific moment from my testing: I got so absorbed in a particularly tense Apex match that I completely forgot I was wearing a headset. That’s the ultimate comfort test, isn’t it? When you stop noticing it’s there.
Now, I won’t pretend this is premium-tier comfort. The headband adjustment mechanism feels a bit plasticky, and if you’ve got an exceptionally large head, you might find it a touch snug. But for the vast majority of people, especially at this price point, the comfort is genuinely impressive.
Audio Performance: Perfectly Adequate (And That’s Fine)
Let’s be realistic about what you’re getting here. The NUBWO U3 uses 50mm drivers and delivers stereo audio. There’s no fancy virtual 7.1 surround sound, no EQ software, no RGB-powered bass boost nonsense. Just straightforward stereo gaming audio.
And you know what? That’s absolutely fine.
I tested the audio across multiple games to get a proper feel for its capabilities. In competitive shooters like Apex Legends and Warzone, I could clearly distinguish footsteps and gunfire direction. The soundstage isn’t massive, you won’t get that wide, spacious feeling you get from audiophile headphones, but the imaging is decent enough for gaming. I could tell when someone was flanking left or pushing from behind.
The frequency response leans slightly towards the bass end, which is pretty standard for gaming headsets. Explosions and gunfire have satisfying weight without being muddy. The mids are clear enough for voice lines and dialogue. The treble is where you notice the budget constraints, it’s not particularly detailed or sparkly, but it’s not harsh or fatiguing either.
I spent an evening listening to music I know well to test the sound signature properly. Arctic Monkeys, bit of Dua Lipa, some Hans Zimmer for the dramatic orchestral stuff. The NUBWO U3 handled it all competently. You’re not going to mistake this for a proper music production headset, but for casual listening between gaming sessions, it’s more than adequate.
Here’s where I’ll go off on a brief tangent: I reckon the gaming industry has done consumers a massive disservice by pushing “7.1 virtual surround sound” as some kind of essential feature. Most implementations are rubbish, they just make everything sound echoey and weird. Good stereo imaging matters far more for competitive gaming, and the NUBWO U3 proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get it.
Volume gets plenty loud through the 3.5mm connection. I tested it across multiple devices: my PC, PS5, Nintendo Switch, and even my phone. Consistent performance across all of them, no issues with volume levels or distortion at higher volumes.
The inline volume control is basic but functional. It’s a simple roller that adjusts volume smoothly without crackling. The mute switch for the mic is a flip-up toggle that’s easy to find without looking.
Is the audio going to blow you away? No. Will it compete with the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5X Wireless Gaming Headset? Absolutely not. But for £15.39, you’re getting gaming audio that does the job without any major flaws.
Mic Performance: Actually Impressive
This is where the NUBWO U3 genuinely surprised me. The microphone quality is far better than it has any right to be at this price.
I recorded voice samples in three different environments: my quiet office, my living room with the TV on in the background, and during an actual gaming session with keyboard clatter and mouse clicks. The noise-cancelling microphone did a cracking job of prioritising my voice over background noise.
My mates on Discord commented that I sounded clear and natural, which is high praise considering some of them have spent £100+ on standalone microphones. Obviously, it’s not studio-quality recording, but for voice chat during gaming? It’s brilliant.
The microphone boom is flexible and stays where you position it. It’s not flimsy or loose, it holds its shape throughout gaming sessions. You can bend it close to your mouth for better pickup or position it slightly away if you prefer. The foam windscreen does a decent job of reducing plosives (those harsh P and T sounds).
I tested it across different platforms to see if performance varied. On PC through Discord and TeamSpeak, PS5 party chat, and Xbox Series X (using the newer controller with built-in 3.5mm jack), the mic performed consistently well. Voice came through clear with minimal background hiss.
One thing to note: there’s no sidetone or mic monitoring feature, which means you can’t hear your own voice through the headset. This is pretty standard at this price point, but some people find it disconcerting. I got used to it quickly, but if you’re someone who relies on hearing yourself speak, be aware.
The mute function works well. Flip the switch up and you’re muted, flip it down and you’re live. Simple, tactile, no confusion. The switch itself feels solid enough that it shouldn’t break with regular use, though time will tell.
Comparison: How Does It Stack Up?
To give you proper context, here’s how the NUBWO U3 compares to other budget gaming headsets I’ve tested recently:
| Headset | Price | Key Advantage | Main Drawback |
|---|---|---|---|
| NUBWO U3 | £15.39 | Best overall value and mic quality | Wired only, basic build |
| Tatybo Gaming Headset | ~£25 | RGB lighting, louder audio | Less comfortable, heavier |
| Logitech G435 | ~£50 | Wireless, very lightweight | Weaker bass, smaller ear cups |
The NUBWO U3 sits in a sweet spot where it delivers the essentials without any major compromises. Yes, the Logitech G435 offers wireless connectivity, but it costs more than three times as much. The Tatybo has flashy RGB lighting, but the NUBWO is more comfortable for long sessions.
If you’re purely after the best value for money in a wired gaming headset, the NUBWO U3 is difficult to beat. NUBWO U3 3.5mm Gaming Headset for PC, PS4, PS5, Laptop, Xbox One, Mac, iPad, NS Games, Computer Game Gamer Over Ear Flexible Microphone Volume Control with Mic - Black
Construction: Budget But Not Flimsy
Let’s talk build quality, because this is where budget headsets typically fall apart, sometimes literally.
The NUBWO U3 is predominantly plastic construction, which is expected at this price. But it’s not that thin, brittle plastic that feels like it’ll snap if you look at it wrong. The plastic used feels reasonably sturdy, with a slight texture that doesn’t feel cheap to the touch.
The headband adjustment mechanism is the weakest point structurally. It’s a simple notched system that works fine but doesn’t inspire confidence for long-term durability. I didn’t have any issues during my three weeks of testing, but I can imagine that after a year of daily use, this might be where problems develop.
The ear cups rotate and fold inward slightly for storage, which is handy. The hinges feel solid enough, though again, I wouldn’t want to test them with aggressive folding and unfolding.
Cable quality is acceptable. It’s a braided 3.5mm cable that’s about 2.2 metres long, plenty of length for console gaming from the sofa or PC gaming at a desk. The braiding should help prevent tangling and add some durability compared to rubber cables. The 3.5mm jack itself is gold-plated, which is a nice touch that might help with connection longevity.
One thing I really appreciate: the cable is detachable from the headset end. If the cable gets damaged, you can replace it without binning the entire headset. This is a feature you often see on much more expensive headsets, and it’s brilliant to have here.
The inline control module is lightweight plastic with the volume roller and mic mute switch. It’s positioned about 40cm down from the headset, which is a good spot that doesn’t dangle annoyingly or sit too far away to reach easily.
Will this headset last five years of daily use? Probably not. But with reasonable care, I reckon you’ll get at least a year or two of solid service, which at £15.39 represents excellent value. Compare that to some £30-40 headsets I’ve tested that felt like they’d break within weeks.
The NUBWO branding is subtle, just a small logo on each ear cup. No obnoxious “EXTREME GAMING” text or unnecessary design flourishes. It looks like a gaming headset, but not in an embarrassing way.
Owner Experiences: What Are Real Users Saying?
With over 20,469 reviews on Amazon and a 4.2-star rating, there’s a wealth of real-world feedback to draw from. I spent time reading through hundreds of reviews to get a sense of long-term ownership experiences.
The overwhelmingly positive theme is value for money. Buyers consistently mention being surprised by the quality relative to the price. Many reviews specifically praise the microphone quality, with several people noting that their friends commented on how much clearer they sounded compared to previous headsets.
Comfort gets frequent mentions, particularly from people who wear glasses. Multiple reviewers specifically called out that the NUBWO U3 doesn’t cause pressure pain on glasses arms, which is a common complaint with gaming headsets.
The negative reviews tend to focus on a few specific issues. Some users report that the headband broke after several months of use, which aligns with my observation that it’s the weakest structural point. A small number of people found the ear cups too small for their ears, though this seems to be a minority experience.
There are occasional complaints about the cable length being too long, which is interesting because I found it perfect for my setup. This is obviously subjective based on your gaming environment.
One reviewer mentioned using the NUBWO U3 for over a year of daily gaming without any issues, which is encouraging for longevity. Another used it primarily for work video calls and praised the mic quality for professional use.
The compatibility across multiple platforms gets consistent praise. PS5, PS4, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PC, even mobile phones – people report it working well across the board. The only caveat is needing a Microsoft adapter for older Xbox One controllers, which NUBWO clearly states in the product description.
A few negative reviews mention sound quality not being as good as more expensive headsets, which is fair enough but also a bit like complaining that a Ford Fiesta isn’t as fast as a Ferrari. At this price point, the audio quality is perfectly adequate for gaming.
The general consensus from real owners: this is a proper budget gaming headset that delivers where it matters most, comfort and clear communication, without trying to be something it’s not.
| ✓ Pros | ✗ Cons |
|---|---|
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Price verified 8 January 2026
Buyer Matching: Is This Headset Right For You?
The NUBWO U3 Gaming Headset UK isn’t for everyone, and that’s perfectly fine. Let me help you figure out if it’s the right choice for your specific situation.
You should absolutely buy the NUBWO U3 if:
You’re a casual gamer who plays a few hours a week and doesn’t want to spend a fortune on audio equipment. This headset delivers everything you need without any unnecessary faff.
You’ve had previous headsets that hurt your head or ears after an hour. The comfort on the NUBWO U3 is genuinely impressive for the price, especially if you wear glasses.
Your mates have complained about your current microphone quality. The mic on this headset is surprisingly good and will make voice chat much clearer.
You game across multiple platforms and want one headset that works everywhere. PS5, Xbox, Switch, PC, even your phone – the NUBWO U3 handles them all with a simple 3.5mm connection.
You’re buying a headset for a younger gamer and don’t want to spend loads on something that might get broken or outgrown quickly.
You should probably look elsewhere if:
You’re a serious competitive gamer who needs every audio advantage. While the soundstage and imaging are decent, you’ll get better positional audio from headsets in the £80-150 range like the Logitech G535 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset.
You want wireless connectivity. The NUBWO U3 is strictly wired, and if cable-free gaming is important to you, consider the KAPEYDESI Wireless Gaming Headset UK instead.
You’re an audiophile who cares deeply about music listening quality. This headset is tuned for gaming, and while it handles music adequately, it won’t satisfy critical listening standards.
You need a headset that will definitely last for years of daily heavy use. The build quality is good for the price, but premium headsets have better longevity.
You want customisable RGB lighting or software-based EQ controls. The NUBWO U3 is plug-and-play with no software or fancy features.
The honest truth? For most people on a budget, the NUBWO U3 is a brilliant choice. It focuses on the fundamentals – comfort, clear communication, and adequate audio – and delivers them all at a price that’s frankly a bit ridiculous.
Final Verdict: Budget Gaming Audio Done Right
After three weeks of testing the NUBWO U3 Gaming Headset UK across multiple games, platforms, and scenarios, I’m genuinely impressed by what NUBWO has achieved at this price point.
This isn’t a headset trying to pretend it’s something it’s not. There’s no marketing nonsense about “military-grade audio” or “professional esports performance.” It’s a straightforward, honest budget gaming headset that focuses on getting the basics right.
And it absolutely succeeds.
The comfort is the standout feature for me. I’ve tested £100+ headsets that became uncomfortable faster than the NUBWO U3. The cloth ear pads, reasonable clamping force, and glasses-friendly design make this suitable for genuinely long gaming sessions without discomfort.
The microphone quality continues to surprise me every time I use it. For voice chat during gaming, it’s clear, natural-sounding, and does a cracking job of filtering background noise. Your teammates will hear you properly, which is half the battle in cooperative games.
Audio quality is where you see the budget constraints most clearly, but even here, it’s perfectly adequate. The soundstage isn’t massive, the treble isn’t particularly detailed, but the imaging is good enough for gaming and the overall sound signature is balanced. You won’t mistake this for an audiophile headset, but you won’t be disappointed during actual gameplay either.
Build quality is the one area where I have slight reservations. The plastic construction is decent for the price, but the headband adjustment mechanism feels like it might be the first thing to fail after extended use. That said, with reasonable care, I reckon most people will get at least a year or two of solid service.
Is it perfect? No. Will it compete with the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5X or other premium headsets? Absolutely not. But at £15.39, it’s not trying to.
What the NUBWO U3 does brilliantly is deliver a comfortable, functional gaming headset with surprisingly good voice quality at a price that makes it accessible to basically everyone. For casual gamers, younger players, or anyone who just wants decent audio without spending a fortune, this is a proper winner.
I’m giving the NUBWO U3 Gaming Headset UK a rating of 4.0 out of 5. It loses a point for build quality concerns and the lack of any standout features, but it earns solid marks for exceptional value, genuine comfort, and mic quality that punches well above its weight class.
If you’re shopping for a budget gaming headset in 2026, the NUBWO U3 should be at the top of your list. It’s honest, functional, and remarkably good at what it sets out to do. NUBWO U3 3.5mm Gaming Headset for PC, PS4, PS5, Laptop, Xbox One, Mac, iPad, NS Games, Computer Game Gamer Over Ear Flexible Microphone Volume Control with Mic - Black
Final Score: 4.0/5
Tested over three weeks in December 2025 across multiple gaming platforms including PS5, PC, and Nintendo Switch. Review published January 2026.
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