The HyperX Cloud II headset has impressed since its launch in February 2015, serving as one of the longest tenured gaming headsets on the market. Until now a wireless version of the storied headset was but a pipe dream, but finally HyperX is making a Cloud II Wireless headset happen...and I’m happy to report it was worth the wait. Coming in at $149 -- cheaper than some headsets with a similar feature set, the Cloud II Wireless headset brings a crisp sound through comfortable earpieces, making it an instant top choice.
Specifications
- Current Price: $149.99
- Part Number: HHSC2X-BA-RD/G
- Headphone Driver: Dynamic, 53mm with neodymium magnets
- Type: Circumaural, Closed back
- Frequency response: 15Hz–20kHz
- Impedance: 60Ω
- Sound pressure level: 104dBSPL/mW at 1kHz
- T.H.D.: ≤1%
- Weight: 300g
- Weight with mic: 309g
- Cable length and type: USB charge cable (0.5m)
- Battery life: 30 hours (tested at 50% volume level)
- Wireless Range: 2.4 GHz Up to 20 meters (may vary due to environmental conditions)
- Microphone Element: Electret condenser microphone
- Polar pattern: Bi-directional, Noise-cancelling
- Frequency response: 50Hz-6.8kHz
- Sensitivity: -20dBV (1V/Pa at 1kH)
The first thing that sticks out to me when I put this headset on is how comfortable it is on my big ol’ head. Those who may never have met or seen me before won’t know this, but my dome is decently larger than average (my hat size, for the baseball fans out there, is 7 ? or 8 depending on the brand). Because of this headsets that sit truly comfortably on me are difficult to find, yet the Cloud II Wireless feels perfectly natural. There’s barely any weight to it so I’m not straining or pressing down on my neck, the earpieces sit firm but lightly around my ears, and the microphone naturally sits in prime position every time.
That said, while holding the headset in my hands it almost feels like a toy. The red and black metal finish makes for a solid design, but the headband feels like leather and cardboard. Every time I pick up the Cloud II Wireless I worry that one false move with my hands will make me snap the thing in half. Granted the lightweight makes for more comfortable wear in the long run, but I don’t like to worry about my devices potentially shattering should they accidentally fall off a small coffee table.
Weight and durability notwithstanding the sound coming out of these earpieces is crystal clear, providing me with an exceptional audio experience whether I’m on PC, PS4, or Nintendo Switch. The 7.1 surround really enhances any game I’ve played with this headset, delivering a detailed and precise sound that I can adjust as needed on the fly.
The audio travels well also, as I walked from my PC in the basement of my home to the top floor and had barely any hiccups or static as I walked. The only thing that caused this headset to stop picking up audio was the microwave being turned on, so unless your game console or PC is next to your kitchen appliances you should be alright.
Connecting the Cloud II Wireless is as easy as plugging a USB dongle into a PC, PS4, or Nintendo Switch dock’s port. The red light blinks, the headset registers to the device, and you’re off to the races. However, don’t be like me and forget to actually turn the headset on before sure, or else you’re setting yourself up for confusion that quickly turns to embarrassment.
Speaking of that power button, the functions on the headset itself are simple to find, use, and understand. The power button rests at the back of the left earphone, with a green indication signaling when it’s powered on. A microphone mute button sits below the power button, and the on-set volume wheel is on the other ear. There’s not a ton of bells and whistles like some other headsets on the market, but this set doesn’t need them; the Cloud II Wireless is clearly shooting for ease of use, and it plainly succeeds there.
Final Thoughts
The Cloud II Wireless headset impresses throughout, from the audio it produces to the level of comfort while wearing them. They feel a little too lightweight while holding them in my hands, but on my head they are as light as a...well, cloud. Being able to walk around with the headset on is an added bonus, the audio profile remaining crisp and clean without me being chained to a device. Best of all the $149 price tag is a manageable point of entry, which is impressive considering how well the headset works. The HyperX Cloud II Wireless headset sounds great, feels great, and travels great throughout the house, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to pick up a new headset in the near future.
