HyperX Cloud II
A legendary competitive gaming headset favored by pros for its reliability, comfort, and precise stereo imaging.
- Wired
- 53mm Dynamic Drivers
- Detachable Boom Mic
- 320g
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Community Evaluation
Performance Tiers
Community consensus based on aggregated review data.
Fit Recommendation
Optimized for ergonomic comfort over long sessions.
Based on long-term clamping force, headband expansion, and cup depth volume.
Review Consensus
Aggregated from 85000+ verified sources.
Technical Specifications
Audio
Connectivity
Microphone
Build & Features
Overview
The HyperX Cloud II is quite possibly the most iconic gaming headset of all time. Originally released in 2015, this wired headset took the gaming world by storm and became the default staple for millions of gamers, bridging the gap between affordable headsets and high-end audiophile gear.
Built originally on the foundation of the Takstar Pro 80, the Cloud II offers an incredibly robust aluminum frame and a no-nonsense plug-and-play setup. You get both a standard 3.5mm jack for consoles and mobiles, and a convenient USB sound card dongle for PC that powers its virtual 7.1 surround sound and inline audio/mic controls.
Key Features
The headset’s longevity is a testament to its features. It packs large 53mm neodymium drivers that provide punchy bass without overwhelmingly sacrificing the mids and highs. It also includes an advanced USB audio control box with a built-in DSP sound card that amplifies both audio and voice.
Another standout feature is the inclusion of both leatherette and plush velour ear pads right in the box, allowing you to choose between noise isolation and breathability depending on your personal preference or the season.
Audio Quality
Where the Cloud II really shines is its competitive stereo imaging. While it markets “virtual 7.1 surround,” most competitive FPS players keep the surround feature off and rely on the headset’s excellent natural soundstage. Directional cues in games like CS2, Valorant, and Rainbow Six Siege are sharp, making it easy to track footsteps and reloads through walls.
The sound profile is a classic V-shape. Sub-bass and mid-bass give explosions and gunfire substantial weight, while the elevated highs help highlight subtle audio cues. The mids are crisp enough that vocals and team communications never get lost in the chaos.
Comfort & Build
HyperX coined the term “legendary comfort” largely because of the Cloud II. The generous use of specialized memory foam in the earcups and headband, paired with a clamping force that hits the sweet spot, means you can wear these for a 10-hour marathon without developing hot spots.
The solid aluminum frame provides durability that outlasts purely plastic competitors, while remaining surprisingly flexible. It’s built to survive being tossed onto a desk or thrown into a backpack thousands of times without the hinges cracking.
Verdict
There’s a reason pro players still use the HyperX Cloud II over a decade after its release. It lacks modern software suites, RGB, and wireless connectivity, but it absolutely nails the fundamentals: comfort, durability, and competitive audio. For its routinely discounted price, it remains one of the smartest and safest investments in gaming audio history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on community census data and common user queries, these are the most frequently discussed topics for this headset.
Why do pro players still use the Cloud II after 10 years?
It's all about the 'no-complexity' factor. The Cloud II has no software, no firmware bugs, and a rock-solid aluminum frame. The 53mm drivers provide a very reliable stereo image that pros have spent thousands of hours learning, making it more predictable than modern 'advanced' processing headsets.
Does the 7.1 Virtual Surround sound work on PS5 or Xbox?
No. The 7.1 button on the USB dongle only works when plugged into a PC. On consoles, you connect via the 3.5mm jack directly to the controller, which provides standard stereo audio. However, both consoles have their own 'Spatial Audio' settings (Tempest 3D / Windows Sonic) that work perfectly with the Cloud II.
Which ear pads should I use: Leatherette or Velour?
Leatherette (pre-installed) provides the best bass response and passive noise isolation—excellent for a loud room. The Velour pads are more breathable and prevent ear sweat, but they allow more sound to leak out and slightly reduce the 'punch' of the bass frequencies.
How do I fix the microphone being too quiet on PC?
Since the Cloud II doesn't have software, you must adjust the volume using the physical '+' buttons on the USB dongle. If it's still quiet, ensure the 'exclusive mode' is enabled in Windows Sound Settings. Note that the Cloud II mic is a 'low-gain' design to prevent background noise, so keeping it very close to your mouth is essential.
Is the 'HP Version' different from the original Kingston version?
In 2021, HP acquired HyperX. Community tests suggest the 'HP Version' (often identified by the new logo font) has slightly thinner earpad foam and a marginally different mic tuning. However, the core 53mm driver and aluminum chassis remain largely unchanged, and it still outperforms most competitors at the $100 price point.
Support & Resources
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