HYPERX CLOUD II WIRELESS REVIEW. It’s been six years since one of my predecessors reviewed the original HyperX Cloud II for GameRevolution. Since then, that headset has risen to the Diamond rank in the headset space. It is known as one of the best sounding and most comfortable gaming headsets for the price, and is still the go-to for many who don’t mind a wire. However, for those who do mind a wire, the wait is now finally over for the HyperX Cloud II Wireless version. Here is the GameRevolution review.
Everything included
As a big fan of the original Cloud II, I was eager to get the Wireless version out of its box. Inside, there’s a removable microphone, wireless dongle, a relatively short USB-C cable for charging, instructions and warranty information, and the wireless headset itself.
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Focusing in on the headset, it stays true to the original Cloud II in terms of style and build quality. The red and black theme will suit most gaming setups, while the excellent build quality gives a great first impression of robustness.
On the left earcup is the power button and mute for the microphone. The right earcup is where the volume wheel is located. This volume wheel has been improved to offer more increments for volume adjustment, meaning it’s easy to fine-tune to the exact desired volume. And that’s it. It’s a very simple layout with only a few different buttons to worry about.
That “Cloud” comfort
HyperX’s highlighted features for the Cloud II Wireless includes comfort, long-lasting battery, and a fast wireless connection.
When it comes to comfort, the Cloud II Wireless is as close to perfect as a closed-back set of cans can get. The headband, the clamping pressure of the earpads, the memory foam and leatherette combination, as well as the low weight, all come together to make for an incredibly comfortable headset
Just as the Cloud II became known for its awesome comfort, so now should the Cloud II Wireless. HyperX has taken an “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” approach, and I can hardly complain.
The only potential issue comes down to the earcup material. As with all headsets that make use of leatherette, the advantage of comfort is sometimes undermined by how hot the user’s ears can become. However, regular short breaks every couple of hours or so should solve this issue.
Long-lasting
As for the long-lasting battery, I’m happy to say that this is also accurate. HyperX claims 30 hours of use at medium volume, but I actually came close to 30 hours while keeping the volume at 80-90%. For me and my evening gaming habits, that equates to charging once a week.
Wireless headset battery life has seen some serious improvements in recent years, so it’s good to see the Cloud II Wireless matching up to the best of them. What’s more, when it does need charging, this headset uses USB-C. With some competitors still stuck using Micro-USB, I’m thankful that this Wireless refresh of the legendary Cloud II is rocking the latest port.
The headset has an LED light indicator that lets you know when the battery is low. It’s as simple as seeing it flash red and then plugging it in until the next gaming session. Or, if the battery dies in the middle of a game marathon, the Cloud II Wireless can be used while charging. Though, you will likely want to buy a longer USB-C cable to actually do this. The provided cable is very short.
Finally wireless
When it comes to the “fast wireless connection,” the 2.4 GHz dongle means the wireless latency is kept to an absolute minimum. For those who have already ditched wired mice and keyboards, going wire-free with a headset is the final stage to wireless freedom.
I had absolutely no issues with connectivity or lag during my weeks of use. With the up to 20m wireless range, it was easy to get up and go to the downstairs fridge while still talking on Discord. There was no interference from my other wireless products, either.
Chatting on Discord or in-game is easily done with the detachable microphone. The quality is nothing too special, though the noise-cancellation does help to isolate the user’s voice. I’d say it’s ideal for talking with friends while gaming, but it’s not broadcast-quality. It’s on par with other gaming headsets, so I can’t be too critical.
I’m a big fan of a detachable mic as I’ve started to game on my own a lot more. By removing the mic, you can give the Cloud II Wireless a much cleaner look. If you do remove the mic, you’ll obviously want to be careful where you store it so it doesn’t get lost!
Sound gamers can depend on
The audio experience of the Cloud II Wireless when gaming, much like the OG headset, is brilliant. For the most part, it seems HyperX is sticking to the same sound signature of the original Cloud II. There’s good, punchy bass, helped by (but not overpowered by) the closed-back design. Mids are present, while highs are boosted without being too harsh.
For me, the listening experience is ideal for competitive gaming, with enemy footstep and reload noises easily heard. The soundstage is also wide enough to clearly distinguish the direction of incoming sound. This is key to knowing when an enemy is sneaking up behind the player or if someone is about to run around a corner.
I tested this headset in Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Apex Legends. All of these games demand a great audio solution for the biggest gameplay advantage. Being able to hear footsteps or bomb plants in Cold War‘s Search and Destroy mode is often key to winning, while Warzone‘s one-life-and-you’re-out intensity is handled more easily with sound you can count on. Apex Legends is another battle royale title that has crucial audio cues that tell the play where enemies are, which characters there are playing as, and what abilities they are deploying. For all of these situations, and more, the HyperX Cloud II Wireless has been consistent in delivering accurate and enjoyable sound.
When applied to music and movie-watching, the Cloud II Wireless is surprisingly satisfying. It’s nice to have a versatile set of cans that can do it all and this pair does a great job. With that said, there is no 3.5 mm in, so it’s not possible to listen via a wired connection, which is a shame. (Note: No, the mic port can’t be used as audio in!)
Minor tweaks
When it comes to surround sound via HyperX’s NGenuity software on PC, the Off/On toggle allows for only one option and I think it’s fine. It sounds like other surround sound settings, all of which I immediately disable and avoid. True stereo sound has always been my go-to, as I have yet to be convinced that virtual surround can ever be better. Of course, for VSS users, your mileage may vary and you could love it!
The NGenuity app also allows for mic monitoring to be enabled. Hearing one’s own voice is great for avoiding shouting into the mic and annoying listeners. Other than that, however, the software is pretty barebones. There’s no further customization of the EQ or different surround sound profiles. Instead, the Cloud II Wireless can be seen as a plug-and-play headset that doesn’t require (or allow) for much tinkering to get working.
HyperX Cloud II Wireless Review | The Final Verdict
The HyperX Cloud II Wireless has taken a legendary headset and made it wireless. It’s a combination that fans have no doubt been waiting for and it comes in at a competitive price tag of $149.99.
While it was easy to recommend the Cloud II five years ago, it’s a little more difficult now. In the time that it’s taken HyperX to finally give the Cloud II the wireless treatment, compelling products from SteelSeries, Razer, and Logitech have all entered the space with some interesting features. Heck, even HyperX has the Cloud Flight S and my personal go-to for PC (albeit wired) Cloud Alpha.
While it’s not a surefire purchase decision anymore, I’m more than happy to at least recommend the Cloud II Wireless for any PC or PS5 gamer’s shortlist. If you need a wireless headset with great build quality and incredible comfort, with battery life that impresses, all for $149.99, then I’d say it’s well worth considering.
Cloud II Wireless Gaming Headset review unit was provided by HyperX.
