HyperX Cloud vs. Cloud II: A Headset Feature Comparison

Kingston’s original HyperX Cloud headset, released in 2014, earned a strong reputation among gamers. In early 2015, the company followed up with an updated model, the HyperX Cloud II. While built on the same foundation, the second version introduced several key upgrades. Both headsets were designed for the PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, but their feature sets created a clear distinction between them, particularly for PC users.

Included Contents and Connectivity

Both the HyperX Cloud and Cloud II packages provided a similar set of core accessories. Each box contained the headset itself, a detachable microphone, a spare set of velour ear cushions (in addition to the pre-installed leatherette ones), a mesh travel bag, and an airplane headphone adapter. The primary difference lay in the cables and control boxes included.

The original HyperX Cloud came with a 1-meter cable attached to the headset, a 2-meter extension cable, and a splitter cable. This splitter was necessary for many PCs, separating the single 3.5mm plug into dedicated microphone and headphone jacks. The Cloud II, by contrast, streamlined its approach around a central new component: a USB audio control box. This advanced dongle served as an external sound card and featured its own braided cable. The headset connected to this box for PC use, or directly to console controllers via its single 3.5mm plug.

Audio Performance: 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound

The most significant upgrade offered by the HyperX Cloud II was its 7.1 virtual surround sound. This feature was enabled exclusively through the USB audio control box when connected to a PC. The control box digitally processes a stereo audio signal to simulate a seven-speaker-and-subwoofer setup. For gamers, this creates a three-dimensional soundscape, allowing for more precise positional audio. The ability to discern the direction of footsteps, gunfire, and other in-game sounds can provide a tangible competitive advantage and a more immersive experience.

Both headsets are built around the same dynamic 53mm drivers, meaning their fundamental stereo audio quality is very similar. When used on a PlayStation 4 or Xbox One via the 3.5mm jack, both the Cloud and Cloud II function as high-quality 2.0 stereo headsets. The 7.1 surround sound capability remained the key differentiator and was a major selling point for PC gamers considering the newer model.

Microphone and Comfort Upgrades

The HyperX Cloud II also introduced notable improvements to its microphone and overall comfort. While both models feature a flexible, detachable boom microphone, the Cloud II’s mic is digitally enhanced through the USB sound card. It incorporates noise and echo cancellation, which actively filters out ambient background noise and prevents game audio from bleeding into the voice chat. This results in significantly clearer communication with teammates.

From a technical standpoint, the Cloud II’s microphone also boasts a wider frequency response range (50Hz–18,000 Hz) compared to the original’s (100–12,000 Hz). This allows it to capture a more natural and full range of vocal tones.

In terms of ergonomics, both headsets use memory foam in their ear cups for a comfortable, sealed fit. The Cloud II extended this feature to the headband, which also uses memory foam. This addition helps to distribute the headset’s weight more evenly across the top of the head, reducing pressure points and increasing comfort during long gaming sessions.

Technical Specifications Breakdown

A look at the official specifications reveals that the core hardware of the two headsets is nearly identical. The similar specs for drivers, impedance, and sound pressure level confirm that the audio experience in standard stereo mode is comparable. The key differences are found in the connectivity, microphone performance, and the addition of neodymium magnets in the Cloud II’s drivers, which can contribute to greater audio clarity.

HyperX Cloud Headset Specs:

• Transducer type: dynamic Ø 53mm
• Operating principle: closed
• Frequency response: 15Hz–25,000 Hz
• Nominal impedance: 60 Ω per system
• Nominal SPL: 98±3dB
• T.H.D.: < 2%
• Power handling capacity: 150mW
• Sound coupling to the ear: circumaural
• Ambient noise attenuation: approx. 20 dBa
• Headband pressure: 5N
• Weight with microphone and cable: 350g
• Connection: mini stereo jack plug (3.5 mm)

HyperX Cloud II Headset Specs:

• Transducer type: dynamic Ø 53mm with neodymium magnets
• Operating principle: closed
• Frequency response: 15Hz–25,000 Hz
• Nominal impedance: 60 Ω per system
• Nominal SPL: 98±3dB
• T.H.D.: < 2%
• Power handling capacity: 150mW
• Sound coupling to the ear: circumaural
• Ambient noise attenuation: approx. 20 dBa
• Headband pressure: 5N
• Weight: 320g
• Weight with microphone and cable: 350g
• Connection: single mini stereo jack plug (3.5 mm)

HyperX Cloud Microphone Specs:

• Transducer type: condenser (back electret)
• Polar pattern: cardioid
• Frequency response: 100–12,000 Hz
• Microphone output: -39±3dB

HyperX Cloud II Microphone Specs:

• Transducer type: condenser (back electret)
• Polar pattern: cardioid
• Frequency response: 50–18,000 Hz
• Microphone output: -39±3dB

While the original HyperX Cloud remained a capable stereo gaming headset, the HyperX Cloud II offered a more complete package, especially for PC users. The addition of 7.1 virtual surround sound, a digitally enhanced microphone, and improved comfort made it a compelling upgrade for those wanting more advanced features.