In the realm of gaming peripherals, HyperX has consistently delivered top-notch products that cater to the demands of both casual gamers and eSports enthusiasts. The HyperX Cloud III headphones, a direct successor to the beloved Cloud II, is no exception. These headphones promise an immersive audio experience and superior comfort, all wrapped up in a sleek design. After putting them through their paces, it’s clear that HyperX has once again set a high bar for gaming headsets.
Design and Build Quality (4.5/5)
The HyperX Cloud III headphones are a sight to behold. They feature a refined design with a matte black finish, accented by subtle red highlights that give them a premium feel. The build quality is robust, with a solid metal frame and plush memory foam ear cups that exude durability. These headphones are not just built to perform but built to last.
The adjustable headband ensures a secure and comfortable fit for long gaming sessions, and the detachable noise-canceling microphone is a welcome addition for gamers who like to communicate with their teammates in crystal-clear audio.
Comfort (5/5)
HyperX has always excelled in the comfort department, and the Cloud III is no different. The memory foam ear cushions are covered with soft leatherette material that feels gentle on the skin. They conform to the shape of your ears, providing a snug fit without causing discomfort or overheating during extended gaming sessions. Even glasses wearers will appreciate how these headphones avoid pinching or causing pressure on the temples.
The lightweight design of the Cloud III further enhances comfort, ensuring that gamers can wear them for hours without fatigue. Whether you’re playing a marathon session of your favorite RPG or engaging in intense FPS battles, these headphones have your back.
Sound Quality (4.7/5)
HyperX has equipped the Cloud III with 53mm drivers that deliver a rich and detailed audio experience. The bass is deep and punchy, while the midrange and treble frequencies are well-balanced, making for an immersive soundstage. Explosions in action-packed games have a satisfying thump, and subtle environmental sounds are crisp and clear.
The virtual 7.1 surround sound feature is a standout, enhancing spatial awareness and making it easier to pinpoint enemy movements in competitive games. However, some purists might prefer the stereo sound for music and movies, as it tends to deliver a more natural audio profile.
Microphone Quality (4.3/5)
The detachable noise-canceling microphone is a key feature of the Cloud III. It performs admirably in transmitting clear voice communications during gaming sessions. Background noise is effectively filtered out, ensuring that your teammates hear you loud and clear. While it might not rival standalone studio microphones, it’s more than sufficient for gaming purposes.
Connectivity and Compatibility (5/5)
HyperX has ensured that the Cloud III is versatile and compatible with a variety of platforms. It features a detachable USB sound card for PCs, delivering the virtual 7.1 surround sound. It also comes with a 3.5mm audio jack, making it compatible with gaming consoles, mobile devices, and even the Nintendo Switch. This flexibility is a significant advantage, as you can seamlessly switch between different devices without any hassle.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the HyperX Cloud III headphones are a compelling choice for gamers seeking comfort, style, and exceptional audio quality. The combination of a sleek design, durable build, and superb comfort makes them a winner. Whether you’re engaging in competitive eSports or enjoying a single-player adventure, these headphones provide an immersive audio experience that enhances your gameplay. With versatile compatibility and a detachable microphone, they cater to a wide range of gaming setups. While they come at a premium price, the HyperX Cloud III headphones are a worthy investment for gamers who demand the best in both form and function.
Pros
- Exceptional Comfort: The plush memory foam ear cushions and lightweight design ensure long-lasting comfort during extended gaming sessions.
- Premium Build Quality: The headphones feature a sturdy metal frame, contributing to their durability and longevity.
- Versatile Compatibility: With both USB and 3.5mm audio jack options, these headphones are compatible with a wide range of gaming platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices.
- Immersive Sound: The 53mm drivers deliver rich, detailed audio with deep bass and well-balanced midrange and treble frequencies.
- Virtual 7.1 Surround Sound: The surround sound feature enhances spatial awareness and is particularly beneficial for competitive gaming.
- Detachable Noise-Canceling Microphone: The microphone filters out background noise effectively, ensuring clear voice communication with teammates.
- Sleek Design: The matte black finish with red accents gives the headphones a premium and stylish look.
- Customizable: The adjustable headband and detachable microphone offer customization options for individual comfort and preference.
- Inline Audio Controls: Convenient in-line controls allow you to adjust volume and mute the microphone without disrupting your gameplay.
- Excellent Value for Money: Considering the comfort, build quality, and audio performance, the HyperX Cloud III headphones offer great value for their price point.
Cons
- Price: These headphones are relatively expensive, which might not be within the budget for all gamers.
- Bulky Design: While comfortable, the large ear cups and metal frame can make the headphones feel a bit bulky.
- Lack of Wireless Option: The Cloud III headphones are wired, which may not suit gamers who prefer wireless setups.
- Microphone Quality for Non-Gaming Purposes: While suitable for gaming, the microphone may not meet the standards of content creators or those needing high-quality recordings.
- Not Ideal for Travel: Due to their size, these headphones may not be the best choice for on-the-go gaming or travel.
- Limited Noise Isolation: While comfortable, the headphones don’t provide extensive noise isolation, which can be a drawback in noisy environments.
- USB Sound Card Required for Full Features: To access the virtual 7.1 surround sound, you’ll need to use the included USB sound card, which might not be preferable for some users.
- Non-Collapsible Design: The headphones don’t fold or collapse for easy storage, potentially taking up more space on your desk or in your bag.
- Limited Color Options: The Cloud III headphones are primarily available in black with red accents, offering limited color customization.
- Sensitive to Buildup of Earwax and Dust: Like many over-ear headphones, the ear cushions can accumulate earwax and dust over time, requiring periodic cleaning for optimal hygiene and performance.
