HyperX Cloud II Review
Our HyperX Cloud II review tests its comfort-first design, bass-tilted 53 mm drivers, detachable mic quality, and USB sound card with virtual 7.1. We compare it with popular wired and wireless rivals to see if it’s still the best value pick for gaming and chat.
- Type: Closed-back, over-ear (wired)
- Drivers: 53 mm dynamic
- Connection: 3.5 mm analog + USB inline sound card (PC 7.1)
- Mic: Detachable, noise-cancelling boom
- Weight: ~320 g (without cable)
- Best for: All-day comfort, team chat clarity, value
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Pros
- Exceptional comfort: memory-foam pads, balanced clamp, light frame
- Warm, punchy sound that flatters games and streams
- Detachable mic captures clear voice with strong noise reduction
- USB sound card adds convenient volume/mic controls + virtual 7.1 on PC
- Durable aluminum yokes; long-lasting pads & cables are replaceable
Cons
- Virtual 7.1 is a mixed bag for competitive accuracy; stereo often best
- Not ideal for music purists (elevated bass, recessed upper-mids)
- No native console chat via USB card on some platforms; use 3.5 mm
Key Takeaways
- One of the most comfortable headsets under £100—great for long sessions.
- Clear comms + punchy game audio beat many pricier competitors.
- Use stereo for ranked shooters; enable 7.1 only if you prefer its ambience.
Sound & Gaming Performance
The Cloud II’s 53 mm drivers deliver a warm V-shaped tuning with boosted bass and crisp treble that brings out explosions and footstep sparkle. Imaging is convincing for a closed-back, and stereo positional cues are strong once you dial in volume. Competitive players may prefer stereo for the most reliable directionality, while cinematic titles benefit from the added space of the USB card’s virtual 7.1.
Comfort & Build Quality
Comfort is where Cloud II built its reputation: plush memory-foam pads, an easy-going clamp, and a padded headband make marathon sessions feel effortless. Aluminum forks and a flexible frame help durability without adding too much weight. The detachable mic and removable cables keep the headset practical to repair or pack.
Mic Quality & Chat
The detachable boom mic transmits a clear, present voice with effective noise reduction for keyboard/mouse clatter. It’s great for Discord or in-game chat. The inline USB card provides hardware buttons for mic mute and volume so you don’t have to tab out mid-match.
Compatibility & 7.1 USB Card
Out of the box, the Cloud II works with PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and mobile via 3.5 mm. The bundled USB sound card is best used on PC for virtual 7.1 and convenient controls. On consoles, stick to analog and adjust EQ on your system or controller if available.
FAQs
Is HyperX Cloud II good for competitive FPS?
Yes. Its stereo imaging and comfy fit are great for long ranked sessions. We recommend stereo over virtual 7.1 for the most consistent footstep localization.
Does the Cloud II work on consoles?
Yes. Use the 3.5 mm analog cable for Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch. The USB sound card is mainly for PC features like virtual 7.1 and hardware controls.
How is the mic quality?
Clear and natural for team chat with effective noise reduction. It’s detachable, so you can remove it for solo play or travel.
What’s the difference between Cloud II and Cloud II Wireless?
Wireless adds 2.4 GHz freedom and battery life but costs more and can sound slightly different. The wired Cloud II is lighter and doesn’t need charging.
Final Verdict – HyperX Cloud II Review
The HyperX Cloud II remains a comfort king with energetic game sound and reliable voice pickup. It’s not tuned for audiophile neutrality and its virtual 7.1 is optional, but for hassle-free, long-session gaming and crystal-clear comms, it’s still one of the best values you can buy.
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