HyperX Cloud II Review: The Comfortable Gaming Headset That Set the Standard
This guide is based on the maker’s published information and common owner feedback, not on lab testing. We may earn a commission if you buy through our links. How this works.
Cheap gaming headsets all fail the same way. The ear cups squeeze, the headband digs in after an hour, footsteps are lost in muddy bass, and your teammates complain that you sound like you are in a tunnel. A good session should not end with sore ears.
The HyperX Cloud II is the headset that showed comfort and clear sound did not have to be expensive. It has been a best seller for years, and it remains one of the most frequently recommended headsets for anyone who plays for long stretches.
This guide explains what you get, what has dated, and who it suits best.
What Is the HyperX Cloud II?
The Cloud II is a wired, closed-back gaming headset. It connects in two ways:
- By 3.5 mm plug, which works with controllers, consoles, laptops and phones that have a headphone jack
- Through the included USB audio control box, which adds virtual 7.1 surround sound and volume controls on PC and PlayStation
Inside each ear cup is a 53 mm driver, larger than the 40 mm units found in many competitors. The frame is aluminum, the ear cushions are memory foam, and a second set of velour cushions is included in the box.
The microphone is noise-canceling and detachable, so the headset can double as ordinary headphones.
Key Benefits
Comfort for long sessions
This is the Cloud II's signature. Thick memory foam, a padded headband and moderate clamping force let most people wear it for hours without pressure points.
Clear, balanced game audio
The large drivers produce full bass without burying mid and high frequencies. Footsteps, reloads and voice lines stay distinct, which matters in competitive play.
Virtual 7.1 surround sound
Press a button on the USB control box and stereo audio is processed into virtual surround. Some players find it helps with positional awareness in shooters and adds atmosphere in single-player games.
A microphone your team can understand
The detachable boom mic focuses on your voice and reduces background noise. It is certified by popular chat platforms, and teammates generally hear you clearly.
Sturdy construction
The aluminum frame handles being dropped, stretched and thrown in a bag far better than all-plastic headsets.
Works with almost everything
PC, PlayStation, Xbox controllers with a 3.5 mm jack, Nintendo Switch and mobile devices are all supported through one connection or the other.
Why Users Love It
The most common points in owner feedback:
- "I forget I am wearing it." Comfort is praised more than any other feature.
- Durability. Many owners report using the same headset daily for years.
- Sound quality for the price. Buyers moving up from budget headsets notice a clear improvement.
- Two sets of ear cushions. Leatherette for isolation, velour for breathability.
The drawbacks owners mention:
- Leatherette gets warm. In hot rooms the standard cushions can make ears sweat. The velour set helps and lets in more outside noise.
- The cable is fixed to the headset. If it is damaged, it cannot simply be swapped.
- Surround sound divides opinion. Some players prefer plain stereo for accuracy.
- No software equalizer with the classic wired model.
- Mic quality is good, not studio-grade. It is fine for chat and not ideal for streaming.
Our Analysis
This analysis is based on HyperX's published specifications and common owner feedback. We have not measured it in an audio lab.
What it gets right
- Comfort and build quality that still compare well with newer, pricier headsets.
- A sound signature tuned for clarity as well as impact.
- The flexibility of analog and USB connections in one box.
- A long record of reliability.
Where it falls short
- It is wired. HyperX sells wireless versions, at a higher price. If you want freedom from cables, look at those.
- The design is several years old. There are no modern extras such as app-based tuning on the wired version.
- Closed-back isolation is moderate. It blocks some room noise and is not a substitute for noise cancelation.
- On Xbox the USB box is not supported, so you use the 3.5 mm plug and lose virtual surround.
Who should buy it
Anyone who plays for hours at a time and wants comfort first, players building their first proper setup, and people who want one headset for several platforms.
Who should skip it
People who want wireless, streamers who need broadcast-quality voice, and listeners who want advanced software controls.
Keep volume at a sensible level. Long sessions at high volume can damage hearing with any headset.
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Wired, closed-back gaming headset |
| Drivers | 53 mm with neodymium magnets |
| Frequency response | 15 Hz to 25 kHz |
| Impedance | 60 ohms |
| Surround sound | Virtual 7.1 through USB control box |
| Connection | 3.5 mm plug, or USB with control box |
| Microphone | Detachable, noise-canceling condenser |
| Frame | Aluminum |
| Ear cushions | Memory foam leatherette, plus velour set included |
| Weight | About 320 g, or about 350 g with microphone |
| Cable length | About 1 m, plus about 2 m with the USB control box |
| Compatibility | PC, PlayStation, Xbox (3.5 mm), Switch, mobile |
Where It Excels
- Marathon sessions. The comfort is built for long raids and ranked grinds.
- Competitive shooters. Clear mids and highs help with positional cues.
- Multi-platform homes. One headset for PC and console.
- Working from home. A comfortable headset with a clear mic for calls.
- Gifts for younger gamers. Tough enough to survive rough handling.
The typical owner story: they bought it years ago on a recommendation, it is still going, and they recommend it to the next person who asks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it work with PS5 and Xbox?
On PlayStation you can use the USB control box or plug into the controller. On Xbox, plug the 3.5 mm cable into the controller; the USB box is not supported.
Is the microphone removable?
Yes. It unplugs, and a small cover closes the port so the headset looks like ordinary headphones.
Does it have noise cancellation?
No active noise cancellation. The closed-back ear cups block a moderate amount of room noise.
Which ear cushions should I use?
Leatherette gives better isolation and stronger bass. Velour is cooler and softer and lets in more sound.
Can I use it for music?
Yes. The sound is balanced enough for music and films as well as games.
Conclusion: Is the HyperX Cloud II Still Worth It?
The HyperX Cloud II has lasted because it gets the fundamentals right. It is very comfortable, it sounds clear, the microphone does its job and the frame holds up. Newer headsets offer wireless connections and software features, and few match it for comfort at this price.
If you want a reliable wired headset you can wear all evening, it remains one of the safest choices in gaming.
Check the current price and color options below.
