Kingston's HyperX Cloud gaming headset takes the simple approach and still offers some great sound and recording capabilities. Though it's somewhat over-packaged, you'll spend more time removing the outer box then opening the heavy interior box than it takes to get the HyperX Cloud working. Plug in the headphone jack (and mic if you need to record something or communicate a multiplayer games) and it works.
For this review, I used the HyperX Cloud with my laptop.
If you've ever met me you'll know this next bit of trivia to be true: I have a big head. The HyperX Cloud adjusted perfectly to fit my head! That's always a bonus to me.
There are two pairs of ear cup padding. One's a "leatherette" pair and the other is described as "velour" (i.e. fabric). Which one you decide on using is up to you but you'll want to consider the risk of tearing a pad. (The leatherette is the default configuration.) That's just a risk/fear on my part; I haven't torn anything but with my luck it seems inevitable.
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| Lots of parts means that bag will come in handy. |
The headset is light and even after long sessions of gaming -- for this review, the games boiled down to Metro Redux and Firefall for the most part; throw some Red Faction: Guerilla and Max Payne 3 in there too -- they remained comfortable.
I wouldn't want to wear them for long periods is A) they were uncomfortable and B) sounded like garbage.
A) They're comfortable.
B) They sound good, though it sounds a little heavy on the bass side.
Based on my hands-on experience -- ears-on? -- it's a full sound, if that makes any sense. A good set of headphones is able to deliver sound in a way that allows the wearer to hear things that otherwise would be missed, like shell casings hitting the ground or a subtle breeze. I think the HyperX Cloud manages that important aspect. It doesn't pretend to offer a faux surround sound; it's stereo and that's reflected in the retail price.
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| Solidly constructed, the headset is also very light and comfortable. |
The removable and bendy mic won't replace your dedicated podcasting mic but it's a darn good stunt double. I really liked the fact that the mic is removeable. Most gaming headsets have mics that flip up and over the headset, which has always looked weird to me.
The fact the HyperX Cloud comes with a storage bag should help me keep track of the mic (and all the other cables).
On top of everything else, Kingston offers two years of free technical support. I'm not totally sure why though. The unit is so easy to put together and use, and offers options and features to customize the experience, that's one lonely technical service rep.
The HyperX Cloud gets a thumbs-up from me.
- Aaron Simmer
- Hi-Fi capable 53mm drivers for supreme audio quality
- 15 - 25.000Hz frequency response
- Detachable microphone (quick and easy to plug/unplug for music-only purposes)
- Solid aluminum construction for durability and stability
- Super-soft padded leather headband with memory foam on cups for maximum comfort
- Closed cup for enhanced bass reproduction and passive noise cancellation
- Compatible for desktop, notebooks, mobile phones, PlayStation 4, and airplane adapters
- Transducer type: Dynamic, Closed 53mm Driver
- SPL Sound pressure level: 98 ± 3dB
Microphone
- Transducer type: Condenser (Back Electret)
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency response: 100 - 12.000Hz
