HyperX began its journey to becoming a dominant force in the gaming world back in 2002. However, until the company debuted its Cloud Gaming headset in 2014, it was primarily known for high-performance memory and storage solutions. Today, HyperX's lineup encompasses wired and wireless headsets that cater mostly to budget and mid-range buyers. The best HyperX headset options feature exceptional comfort and solid build quality, perfect for competitive and casual gamers.
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HyperX gaming headsets are flexible enough to be comfortable for all gamers, regardless of head size. While achieving a secure fit is not an issue, buyers should worry more about platform compatibility. Most models excel on PCs but may require specific versions for popular gaming consoles. The manufacturer also sells wireless headsets with exceptional battery life, but some gamers may still prefer a wired alternative. Finally, budget doesn't always correlate to sound quality, but the more expensive headsets have an exceptionally balanced sound.
The HyperX headset collection is more extensive than many gamers realize. Game ZXC has narrowed down the choices that cater to all budgets and platforms.
Updated on May 10, 2024, by Adam Corsetti: HyperX hasn't released a new headset in the past several months, though younger gamers anxiously await the arrival of the Cloud Mini. Still, prices are always changing, and Game ZXC has found a new budget pick that offers superior sound quality and comfort for an enticing asking price.
Game ZXC's Picks for the Best HyperX Gaming Headsets
HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless
The headset has an incredible battery life of up to 300 hours, surpassing what other headsets offer for non-stop gaming. It has a 2.4GHz, low-latency connection that prevents breakage in the flow of sound between the gaming device and the headset. DTS Spatial Audio amplifies the sound, delivering it as clearly as possible so that users can get everything they need to win games.
- Microphone
- Detachable Boom Mic
- Compatibility
- PC, PS4|PS5, Switch (docked only)
- What's Included
- USB Charging Cable (1.6 ft / 0.5 m), Pop Filter, Detachable mic, USB wireless adapter
- Brand
- HyperX
- Weight
- 335 grams
- Battery Life
- 300 hours
- Sturdy and comfortable
- 300-hour battery life
- Boom mic performs well
- Convincing spatial audio
- Wired connection not possible
- PC required for some features
To sell a headset that sets itself apart from a crowded field of contenders, HyperX has to offer some standout features. The Cloud Alpha Wireless boasts a hard-to-fathom 300-hour battery life. This makes choosing a wireless over a wired headset easier since most competitors max out at 50 to 80 hours of playtime. The Cloud Alpha Wireless is the perfect headset to entice fans of wired gaming gear to cut the cord. Despite its massive internal battery, the device weighs a reasonable 335 grams and possesses the signature comfort that HyperX headsets usually boast.
Even a wireless headset that can endure weeks without recharging wouldn't seem as desirable if it didn't have stellar sound quality. Thankfully, the Cloud Alpha Wireless employs a dual-chamber driver design that separates mid and high tones from bass effects, so gamers can enjoy a balanced soundscape. The large drivers also enhance the headset's surround sound support, where 3D effects are sent towards eardrums at angles. DTS Headphone:X is the spatial audio technology of choice for the headset, and it can signal approaching danger to gamers before they meet an unfortunate demise.
The Cloud Alpha Wireless also has a noise-cancelling detachable mic with a helpful LED indicator light. This light is visible near the end of the boom mic and will keep gamers informed whether the microphone is active or not. The sound is crystal clear with this mic, which is certified for Discord and TeamSpeak.
With industry-leading battery life, a balanced soundscape, and a comfortable fit, the Clould Alpha Wireless is the best HyperX headset.
HyperX Cloud Flight Gaming Headset
The HyperX Cloud Flight gaming headset has a comfortable design and durable construction with adjustable steel sliders on the headband. The headset features a gaming-grade 2.4 GHz wireless connection that offers lag-free gaming. The battery on this device can last up to 30 hours on one charge. Enjoy immersive, high-quality sound and deliver crystal clear directions to your teammates with a noise-canceling microphone.
- Microphone
- Detachable Noise Cancelling
- Compatibility
- PC, PS5, PS4
- What's Included
- USB Adapter, USB charge cable, Quick start guide
- Brand
- HyperX
- Weight
- 299 grams
- Battery Life
- 30 Hours
- 90-degree rotating ear cups
- Detachable noise-cancelling mic
- Works with NGenuity software
- Not a great option for Xbox gamers
- Lacks native support for spatial audio
Looking for a great-sounding wireless gaming headset on a budget can become tricky. Often, buyers must compromise between sound quality, comfort, and battery life. Thankfully, the HyperX Cloud Flight excels in these areas without the considerable cost of most premium cord-free headsets.
Even though the 30-hour battery life of the HyperX Cloud Flight can't match the longevity of the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless, it still ranks above most affordable options. The headset ships with a low-latency wireless 2.4 GHz RF USB adapter that connects to PCs and PlayStation consoles. Sadly, Xbox users are again left out of the fun since Microsoft has not officially approved this headset
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The 299-gram HyperX Cloud Flight sports earcups that rotate 90 degrees, resulting in a comfortable fit on ears of any shape or size. The wireless headset also exudes some RGB lighting, with a red hue illuminating the HyperX logos on its cans. When it was released in 2018, HyperX's first wireless headset represented a stark departure in style but one that would serve as a template for later devices.
Benefiting from a flexible and sturdy design and a high-quality removable mic, the Cloud Flight is the best wireless gaming headset among the affordable HyperX options.
HyperX Cloud III Gaming Headset
The HyperX Cloud III is the follow-up to the ultra-popular Cloud II wired gaming headset, approved by Esports competitors. Featuring angled 53 mm drivers, the Cloud III sends sound directly on a path to eardrums for maximum effect. The Cloud III is exceptionally comfortable and is compatible with PCs and most consoles.
- Microphone
- Detachable, Noise cancelling
- Compatibility
- PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, Mobile
- Brand
- HyperX
- Weight
- 318 grams
- Spatial Audio
- DTS Headphone:X
- Very comfortable to wear for long hours
- Impressive bass tones
- Looks and feels like a premium headset
- DTS surround sound not most convincing
- Not a giant leap over the Cloud II
The wired HyperX Cloud II was one of the most successful headsets of its era, especially popular with esports pros. Competitive and casual gamers flocked to the Cloud II because of its pillow-like ear cushions and out-of-the-box balanced sound. The Cloud III has taken everything buyers praised about its predecessor and made some minor but appreciated improvements.
For the Cloud III, HyperX utilizes 53 mm drivers, which may seem somewhat of an odd size. Still, HyperX has angled the drivers to point directly at the eardrums so that the headset's sound quality is fully appreciated. These revamped drivers also maximize DTS Headphone:X spatial audio, making the listening experience more dynamic. However, many gamers may struggle to notice the difference when 3D audio is in play, so purchasing this wireless headset is not a reason alone.
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Wired headsets are often the favorite choice of buyers who dread running low on batteries. However, devices like the Cloud III also excel at connectivity, and it can be used on a PC or any console controller with a headset port. The headset also ships with a series of adapters, including a wired dongle, so USB connections to PCs and potentially other sources are possible. PC gamers will want to utilize the USB connection to have the full range of settings and adjustments at their disposal in the HyperX software.
Since the changes from the Cloud II aren't dramatic, some buyers may decide that the higher price of the Cloud III isn't justified. Regardless, multiplayer gamers, in particular, will celebrate the improved microphone along with the trademark Cloud headset comfort.
HyperX Cloud Stinger 2
The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 gaming headset is a great budget-friendly offering that leaves no stone unturned. It boasts 50mm drivers, support for DTS Surround, has a noise-canceling microphone and weighs under 300 grams. The mic can be flipped up to mute and put it out of the way. The earcups can also rotate 90 degrees for a more comfortable fit and resting position.
- Microphone
- Electret condenser microphone
- Compatibility
- PC, Xbox Series, PS4, PS5
- What's Included
- Gaming Headset, PC extension cable, DTS Headphone:X (2 year activation code included), Quick Start Guide
- Brand
- HyperX
- Surround Sound
- DTS Surround
- Noise Cancellation
- No
- Weight
- 272 grams
- Frequency Response
- 10 Hz – 28 kHz
- Ear Cushions
- Memory foam and premium leatherette
- Driver
- 50 mm
- Same comfort levels as more expensive HyperX headsets
- Simple wired connection makes it multi-platform compatible
- Ships with DTS Headphone:X subscription
- Powerful 50 mm drivers
- Mic isn't detachable and can be cumbersome
- Heavy amounts of plastic
Most of the popular HyperX headsets are reasonably priced mid-range models, but there is still a demand for budget options. The Cloud Stinger 2 provides many of the same advantages as the manufacturer's more expensive headsets, like long-lasting comfort and simple connectivity. Surprisingly well-rounded and powerful sound also makes this budget headset stand out among its affordable competitors.
The Cloud Stinger 2 has a basic all-black design, oversized earcups, and a padded headband. To help beginners find the perfect fit, there are rulers with markers where the earcups slide up and down. The cans also swivel freely to the point where they can cause the headset to slide. With the usual HyperX blend of leatherette and memory foam, earlobes won't suffer like they sometimes do with tight-fitting alternatives like the Logitech G435.
While the Cloud Stinger 2's non-detachable microphone won't win any awards for clarity, it's more than acceptable for a budget headset. Other than being a tad quiet without adjustments, the only issue is that even when flipped up to mute, it gives the headset a clunky look and impacts its portability.
Connectivity with this HyperX headset is extremely straightforward since it uses a conventional analog audio cable. PC gamers can utilize the extension cable to connect the headset to audio and mic ports. Meanwhile, console gamers must rely on the headphone jack on their controllers. Shipping with a DTS Headphone:X license, only PC users can experience this form of spatial audio. Regardless, the stereo-based Cloud Stinger 2 is a decent match for Sony's Tempest 3D audio on the PS5.
With 50 mm drivers that are more massive than the drivers on many budget headsets, the Cloud Stinger 2 rewards listeners with a booming gaming-focused soundscape. When listening to music, high tones are sometimes obscured, but during gaming, explosions feel impactful, and subtle sound effects are distinguishable.
Build quality with the Cloud Stinger 2 is the primary concern of buyers, but its construction is no more shoddy than other affordable wired headsets. Buyers unwilling to compromise on comfort should flock to the Cloud Stinger 2 as the best HyperX headset in the budget class.
HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 Wireless Gaming Headset
The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 Wireless is a supremely comfortable lightweight gaming headset with a powerful spatial audio soundscape. With included DTS Headphone:X support, gaming audio instantly becomes more lifelike. The Cloud Stinger 2 Wireless includes HyperX's celebrated memory foam ear cushions, which float on top of ears without causing soreness. Through a low latency 2.4 GHz wireless connection, the Cloud Stinger 2 Wireless connects to PCs and PlayStation consoles for up to 20 hours of playtime.
- Microphone
- Bi-directional, Noise-cancelling
- Compatibility
- PC, PS4, PS5
- What's Included
- USB -C charging cable, wireless adapter
- Weight
- 272 grams
- Battery Life
- 20 hours
- Frequency Response
- 10Hz – 20.2kHz
- Ear Cushions
- Memory foam
- Spatial Audio
- DTSÂ Headphone:X
- Driver
- 50 mm
- Brand
- HyperX
- Effective use of spatial audio
- Powerful maximum volume levels
- Very lightweight design
- Comfortable but tends to slip off ears
- No wired connectivity
The Cloud Stinger 2 Wireless is a unique model among HyperX wireless headsets. While similar to the wired Cloud Stinger 2 Core, its wireless counterpart isn't a carbon copy with slightly more powerful 50 mm neodymium drivers. Those larger drivers contribute to generous volume levels, a highlight of the Cloud Stinger 2 Wireless, along with its spatial audio support.
HyperX headsets are typically on the light side, but the Cloud Stinger 2 Wireless weighs less than any of the brand's wireless headsets. Not surprisingly, it's made mostly of plastic, contributing to the sensation of wearing a pillow on one's head. Unfortunately, the headset tends to slip out of position gradually because of its lack of heftiness and the way the ear cushions float on the ears.
Although the Cloud Stinger 2 Wireless mic flips up to mute rather than detaches, the headset is reasonably portable. That's why the sheer power of its soundscape is commendable, with volume levels never an issue, even when listening to less-than-optimized recordings. The Cloud Stinger 2 Wireless includes software support for DTS Headphone:X, and unlike many gaming headsets, the spatial audio is worth keeping on. Since even the most subtle sound effects are more discernible, a player's awareness of enemies and other dangers in environments is enhanced.
The Cloud Stinger 2 Wireless pairs with PCs, PS4, and PS5s through an included wireless USB RF dongle. PlayStation gamers will find that the headset matches Sony's Tempest 3D audio technology well, but Xbox gamers are shut out since there is no analog port. Bluetooth connectivity is also not included, but it's understandable considering the reasonable price.
Gamers searching for a compromise between the most premium and budget wireless headsets should strongly consider the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2. HyperX packs a ton of power into its 272-gram frame, and it's one of the more affordable ways to discover the advantages of spatial audio.
HyperX Cloud III Wireless Gaming Headset
The Hyper X Cloud III Wireless is more than just an iterative improvement over its predecessors, offering a well-designed noise-canceling mic, 120 hours of battery life between charges, and some of the best comfort one can expect from a gaming headset in 2024.
With added DTS: X Spatial 3D Audio to assist gamers in placing or locating the positions of both their allies and enemies in a slew of FPS titles as well as offering one of the sturdiest designs on offer for a gaming headset, the Hyper X Cloud III Wireless delivers the goods on multiple fronts for gamers irrespective of the platform they pair it with.
- Microphone
- Noise cancelling Boom Mic with Mute LED
- Compatibility
- PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch
- Surround Sound
- Yes, Virtual
- Weight
- 342g
- What's Included
- Detached Microphone, USB-C charging cable, 2.4GHz dongle, USB adapter
- Noise Cancellation
- No
- Battery Life
- Up to 120 Hrs
- Spatial Audio
- Yes, DTS: X Spatial 3D Audio
- Driver
- 53mm Angled Drivers
- Brand
- HyperX
- Better than average battery life
- Adjusts to fit any sized head
- Excellent wireless range
- No Bluetooth or Xbox compatibility
- Microphone slightly less clear than wired version
The HyperX Cloud III Wireless features many of the same innovations as its wired counterpart, including more precisely angled drivers. HyperX's most recent headset boasts a greatly improved battery life compared to the Cloud II Wireless. Buyers looking for a headset that can adjust to fit any gamer and has an exceptional wireless range should gravitate toward Cloud III Wireless.
HyperX didn't take too many chances with the Cloud III Wireless, offering the most attractive qualities of the wired version in a cord-free form. That includes a sound output directed toward eardrums rather than earlobes, which would lessen their impact. The Cloud III Wireless also features the same adaptive comfort with a well-padded headband and earcups that can be raised or lowered. Consequently, this wireless headset has mass appeal regardless of the size of the noggin a gamer has.
Some buyers will lament the lack of Bluetooth connectivity with the Cloud III Wireless. However, HyperX has focused on establishing a reliable long-range wireless connection through a USB RF dongle. Fans of clean gaming setups will appreciate that the new adapter is more compact than the chunky accessory included with the Cloud II Wireless. During testing, the cordless Cloud III didn't disappoint, exhibiting better-than-expected range even at the adjacent ends of some homes. Sadly, this is yet another HyperX headset lacking Xbox compatibility and an analog audio jack.
The Cloud Alpha overshadows the Cloud III Wireless in battery life, but at 120 hours, it still beats almost any other high-end headset. Game ZXC's review of the Cloud III Wireless found that with rock-solid wireless connectivity and universal comfort, it's the best HyperX headset when money is no obstacle.
HyperX Cloud Orbit S
The HyperX Cloud Orbit S gaming headset is luxury-level audio at a midrange-level price. It utilizes powerful planar magnetic drivers from Audeze, the same drivers employed in $400+ headphones. The HyperX offers 3D spatial audio and head tracking, plus multi-system compatibility thanks to three included connectivity options. The detachable mic subdues background noises including keyboard cracks and other disturbances, while the headset's active noise cancelation keeps players immersed deeply in game audio.
- Compatibility
- PC, Mac, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PlayStation, mobile
- Brand
- HyperX
- Weight
- 368 grams
- Microphone
- Detachable noise-canceling mic
- Style
- Wired over-ear
- Noise Cancelation
- Active noise cancelation
- Drivers
- Audeze planar magnetic
- Spatial audio
- Waves Nx 3D audio
- Dynamic 3D Audio and head tracking
- Powerful planar magnetic drivers reject interference
- Clear and reliable microphone
- Sound processing requires recharging
- Heavier than most HyperX headsets
HyperX headsets tend to blend in with one another, having the same core features. That's not the case with the HyperX Cloud Orbit S, which showcases innovative positional audio technology. Now significantly discounted, the Cloud Orbit S appeals to buyers with modest budgets looking for a premium listening experience.
100 mm planar magnetic drivers are one of the main reasons why the Cloud Orbit S performs differently from other HyperX headsets. This technology is courtesy of Audeze, which utilizes the same beefy drivers in its pricey headsets like the Maxwell. The components inside the earcups of the Cloud Orbit S include especially strong magnets that help to minimize distortion. As a side effect, the larger drivers add some weight to the headset, but HyperX's usual luxurious padding counteracts most of this bulk.
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While the Cloud Orbit S doesn't support traditional surround sound formats, it creates a 3D audio environment aided by head tracking. The headset can keep constant tabs on a listener's position, and any movements affect where sounds emanate. However, these advanced features only work with a USB connection to PCs, even though an analog cable is an option for console controllers. This level of digital sound processing also requires some battery power, which is only recharged while connected to USB.
The Cloud Orbit S's detachable noise-cancelling microphone ranks among the best headset mics on the market. Complete with a pop filter to minimize background noise, the mic focuses its recording efforts only on the side closest to the speaker's mouth. Whether buyers are concerned with reliable multiplayer communication or a headset for Zoom meetings, the Cloud Orbit S is up to the task.
Now often overlooked in HyperX's inventory, the Cloud Orbit S deserves more attention, especially at its reduced price. Positional audio and head tracking create a VR-like experience, but its powerful drivers alone make it one of the best HyperX headset options.
HyperX Cirro Buds Pro
Gamers on the go who are not willing to sacrifice sound quality should consider the HyperX Cirro Buds Pro. Using a series of internal microphones to monitor environments, active noise cancelling effectively blocks out unwanted distractions. A low-latency Bluetooth connection allows PC and mobile gamers to hear everything that happens in games instantaneously. The Cirra Buds Pro is also IPX4 certified to withstand the worst weather conditions.
- Compatibility
- PC, Mac, Switch, Mobile
- Brand
- HyperX
- Weight
- 8 grams
- Battery Life
- 4.5-7 hours, 35 hours with case
- Charging Case Included?
- Yes
- Supported codecs
- Bluetooth, SBC
- Bluetooth
- 5.2
- Noise Cancellation
- ANC
- Frequency response
- 20Hz – 20kHz
- Charging time
- 40 minutes, case 2 hours
- Active noise cancelling at low price point
- Comfortable even after extended use
- Minimal latency
- Limited touch controls without customization
- Microphone can't come close to matching boom mics
HyperX also has gamers on the go covered with their wireless Cirro Buds Pro. Appealing to its usual customer base, these earbuds are ideal for mobile gaming but also are more than adequate for listening to music and watching videos. A main selling point for the Cirro Buds Pro is its active noise cancellation, which is not a feature of any HyperX headset.
Besides the HyperX logo, the Cirro Buds Pro resembles ordinary wireless earbuds. The front of the circulated-shaped earbuds is flat, which makes executing touch commands easier. Unfortunately, the controls consist of only basic functions like pausing and skipping music tracks, and the lack of software necessitates using a mobile phone for volume changes. The Cirro Buds Pro includes several comfortable tips that form an effective seal on the ears, which is vital for its active noise-cancelling functionality.
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Gaming earbuds often fail to produce the rumbling bass effects expected from gaming headsets. The Cirro Buds Pro also struggles to output low tones, but its soundscape is balanced enough to distinguish between most sound effects. Active noise cancelling, not guaranteed at this reasonable price point, also helps filter out non-gaming-related distractions.
A low-latency Bluetooth connection comes close to replicating the performance of a USB RF dongle. Where the Cirro Buds Pro falls short of the Cloud gaming headsets is with its microphone, which struggles to compete with an external boom mic. The mic is susceptible to gusts of winds, and multiplayer chatters will sound tinny without much bass.
Regardless of some drawbacks, the Cirro Buds Pro provides ample battery life and comfort that frees gamers from the confines of desks.
HyperX Cloud Alpha S Gaming Headset
The HyperX Cloud Alpha S comes with a frequency response range of 13Hz to 27kHz. This headset features custom-tuned HyperX dual chamber drivers and 7.1 surround sound for immersive audio. For customizability, it also has bass adjustment sliders and provides a game and chat balance feature.
The HyperX Cloud Alpha S is built with a durable aluminum frame. It is equipped with an advanced audio control mixer, a detachable noise cancelation mic, and a braided cable.
- Microphone
- Bi-directional, Noise-cancelling
- Compatibility
- PC, PlayStation
- Brand
- HyperX
- Surround Sound
- Virtual 7.1 surround sound
- Weight
- 321 grams
- Includes alternate earpads
- Impressive build quality
- Bass controls on both earcups
- Mixer mainly benefits PC gamers
- Microphone lacks bass
The HyperX Cloud Alpha S has many features that appeal to PC gamers that are not commonly found on wired headsets. One of these surprises is the individual bass controls on both earcups, which allow listeners to decide how low tones are emphasized without using software. In addition, buyers will receive a USB audio mixer with large buttons and controls to adjust sound and chat mixes.
It's unlikely that buyers will find a more durable headset at the Cloud Alpha S' asking price. An aluminum frame gives buyers the impression that they are using a high-end headset while remaining fairly compact at 321 grams. Since listeners have different preferences, the Cloud Alpha S includes two sets of replaceable ear cushions with an option for a leatherette blend or breathable fabric.
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The mics on HyperX headsets rarely disappoint, and the detachable noise-cancelling microphone on the Cloud Alpha S is flexible enough for gamers to position it in the ideal spot. Even so, while there are bass controls on the earcups, the microphone tends to lack bass, making chatters sound more high-pitched than normal.
With stellar build quality and available adjustments that streamers will appreciate, the Cloud Alpha S is one of the top PC gaming headsets.
HyperX CloudX Stinger Core
The HyperX CloudX Stinger Core is an acceptable wireless Xbox headset that ticks most of the boxes. For under $80, buyers get a lightweight headset paired with comfy memory foam cushions that make gaming enjoyable even after many hours. The Stinger Core also comes with steel sliders, which increase its durability. It also delivers great sound thanks to its 40 mm drivers and Windows Sonic, a spatial sound solution.
- Microphone
- Uni-directional, Noise-cancelling
- Compatibility
- Xbox Series S, Xbox One, w/Xbox Series X
- Weight
- 275 grams
- Battery Life
- 17 hours
- Ear Cushions
- Soft foam & fabric ear cushions
- Spatial Audio
- Yes (Windows Sonic)
- Driver
- 40mm with neodymium magnets
- Range
- Up to 20 meters
- Brand
- HyperX
- Connects to Xbox consoles without dongle
- Doesn't overemphasize bass effects
- Comfortable to wear for hours at a time
- PC gamers need to purchase wireless adapter
- Construction feels cheap
Console gamers often feel neglected when shopping for wireless Xbox headsets, with relatively few choices that natively support the console. The HyperX CloudX Stinger Core Wireless is one of a handful of options that connects to Xbox gaming systems without a dongle. While it's not a great choice for other platforms, the CloudX Stinger Core is also extremely comfortable with a sound profile that's not fixated on bass tones.
With green rings around the earcups of the CloudX Stinger Core, the Xbox styling is subtle but enough to indicate its target market. The memory foam ear cushions are more oval than circular to accommodate ears of different sizes. At just 275 grams, the CloudX Stinger Core comes close to matching the Cloud Stinger Core 2 Wireless as the lightest cordless HyperX headset. Some gamers find that the official Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset is tight on larger heads until its headband loosens over time. Universal comfort is not an issue with the CloudX Stinger Core, which has a gentler clamping force.
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The main advantage of the CloudX Stinger Core for Xbox owners is that it pairs with their consoles after a simple button press. Only a handful of third-party headsets, like the Razer Kaira Pro, share this capability. However, without purchasing a separate wireless adapter, PC gamers won't find much use for the headset. The CloudX Stinger Core is also far from the ideal multi-platform device without Bluetooth or an analog audio port. Nevertheless, the headset integrates tightly with Xbox consoles, even to the point that it can turn on the system.
Most gaming headsets tend to exaggerate the potent explosions and bass-rich sound effects that make gaming thrilling. The CloudX Stinger Core breaks this mold somewhat, as mid and high tones come through clearly, making it a decent all-around headset for music and movies. This HyperX headset also showcases Microsoft's Windows Sonic spatial audio format, even if it's technically not surround sound compatible.
Besides its limited compatibility, the only other concern for the CloudX Stinger Core is its especially plastic-dominant build. Fortunately, while the CloudX Stinger Core feels like it should cost $20-30 less, its sound output is worthy of paying its asking price. For buyers who dedicate themselves to Microsoft's console, the CloudX Stinger Core is the best HyperX headset for the Xbox.
HyperX Cloud PlayStation Gaming Headset
This HyperX Cloud series gaming headset is designed specifically for PlayStation consoles, including the PlayStation 4 and the PlayStation 5. It is also an officially licensed PlayStation product and uses a standard 3.5 mm headphone jack.
The headset comes with comfortable ear cups with soft memory foam that's great for marathon gaming sessions. It is built for durability with an aluminum frame. For communication, the headset features a detachable boom microphone.
- Compatibility
- PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox
- Brand
- HyperX
- Weight
- 322 grams
- What's Included
- Uni-directional, Noise-cancelling
- Frequency Response
- 15Hz-25kHz
- Driver
- Dynamic, 53mm
- Far more comfortable than most budget headsets
- Looks like a PlayStation accessory
- Works with PCs and other consoles
- Non-detachable cable
- Mic port cover is easy to lose
With all the hype around the PS5's next-gen features, one of the best headsets for Sony consoles utilizes a decade-old design. The original HyperX Cloud impressed gamers with a previously unmatched comfort level and pro-level build quality. As a rebranding of the first wired Cloud, the HyperX Cloud for PlayStation retains these qualities while looking like a Sony-licensed accessory.
The wireless Sony Pulse Elite is popular among PS4 and PS5 users, but some gamers find it difficult to achieve a perfect fit. This HyperX Cloud is more accommodating with a sturdy but forgiving padded headband and the memory foam ear cushions the manufacturer is known for. Visually, the blue components and stitching dramatically depart from HyperX's trademark red and black color scheme. While some PS4/PS5 peripherals make minimal effort to match the look of the consoles, the Cloud goes the extra mile with a PlayStation logo on the headband's bottom.
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Relying on a traditional stereo configuration, the Cloud isn't an ideal match for surround sound formats like Dolby Atmos. Thankfully, Sony's Tempest 3D Audio elevates high-quality two-channel headsets, especially those with a robust and balanced output. Defying its branding, the Cloud is also an option for PCs and Xbox controllers with analog outputs.
The analog audio cable connected to the Cloud is not detachable, like its noise-cancelling microphone. Regardless, the headset is surprisingly portable, with a narrow profile and a flexible frame. However, its portability does lead to an issue with a flimsy mic port cover that is easily misplaced.
Perhaps the price of the HyperX Cloud for PlayStation is the most impressive quality. At far less than the original Cloud's cost, this device is more well-built and comfortable than most budget headsets.
How to Purchase a HyperX Headset
With their consistent red and black color scheme and similar features, narrowing down which HyperX gaming headset is right for a particular gamer can be difficult. Now that Game ZXC has categorized the best HyperX headset candidates, remember to focus on these qualities:
Wired vs. Wireless
Some gaming headset makers prioritize wired headsets over their wireless counterparts or vice versa. On the other hand, the HyperX headset lineup features corded and cordless models with equal performance levels. The wired HyperX Cloud III is the follow-up to one of the brand's best-selling headsets and meets its high expectations. The Cloud III features an improved mic with a mesh filter and angled drivers aimed directly toward gamers' ears.
HyperX has an equally strong collection of cord-free headsets to address the preferences of all buyers. For cord-management fanatics without a huge budget, the HyperX Cloud Flight presents buyers with a tempting feature set. The battery life is excellent at 30 hours, and its earcups rotate 90 degrees to fit any head size.
Platform
Nothing is more frustrating than deciding on a gaming headset only to realize it won't work on a certain gaming system. Most HyperX headsets function on PlayStation consoles through either analog audio connections or wireless RF USB adapters. Some HyperX options exude Sony console styling, like the officially licensed Cloud PlayStation headset. Unfortunately, only a handful support Xbox consoles, but the CloudX Stinger Core is an exception. This pillowy, soft wireless headset connects to Microsoft's gaming systems without needing a separate dongle.
Choosing a gaming headset with an analog audio connection can ensure widespread compatibility. Many budget headsets, like the Cloud Stinger 2, work with audio jacks on PCs and gaming controllers.
Sound Quality
HyperX headsets feature consistent sound quality and microphone performance throughout its lineup. Still, among their models, buyers will encounter differences in how dynamic a soundscape is and the clarity of microphones.
Most buyers expect a balance of low, mid, and high tones from a higher-end headset like the Cloud III Wireless. This headset resists the temptation to exaggerate bass effects and has an especially long-range wireless connection that rejects interference. PC gamers often have more control over EQ settings, like with the Cloud Alpha S, which includes a mixer to adjust sound and chat mixes.
Surround Sound
HyperX gaming headsets vary dramatically in their surround sound implementation, with the asking price not always indicative of 7.1 channel audio support. With software or Sony's Tempest 3D audio engine, the HyperX Cloud Flight and other stereo gaming headsets can take advantage of spatial audio formats. The Cloud Orbit S possesses its own 3D audio technology that benefits from head tracking for an eerily authentic virtual listening experience.
Gamers don't have to spend a fortune to experience the wonders of multichannel audio. The cordless HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 gaming headset maximizes the potential of the DTS Headphone:X format at a modest asking price.
The Cloud Alpha Wireless is Game ZXC's choice for the best overall HyperX gaming headset. Competitors have had no luck matching this device's astounding 300-hour battery life, and it also has the luxurious comfort and stellar build quality that made HyperX famous.
Best Logitech Gaming Headsets of 2024
Logitech has an impressive array of headsets, including both wired and wireless options. But which Logitech gaming headset is the best?
FAQ
Q: What are HyperX gaming headsets best known for?
Comfort has always been a strength of HyperX headsets, with their appropriately named Cloud models practically floating on ears. Also, as popular choices among Esports competitors, HyperX microphones have a reputation for clarity and effective noise isolation.
Q: Are PC gaming headsets compatible with consoles?
This all depends on the specific headset. Generally speaking, most PC headsets can work with most consoles, but Xbox systems are usually the most problematic. However, before buying one, consider checking the official information on the store page for the headset first. Verifying connectivity compatibility is important before buying any kind of gaming gear.
Q: Is a HyperX headset better than Logitech's?
HyperX and Logitech manufacture excellent gaming headsets, but their lineups have some differences. Logitech sells more diverse headsets in styling and capabilities, while HyperX tends to stick to the same color scheme and features. Logitech also sells more higher-end wireless headsets like the Logitech G Astro A50 X, which include receivers compatible with nearly every source.