Buying guide for best hyperx headsets
Ever since the debut of the HyperX Cloud, the HyperX brand has been considered one of the leading makers of gaming headsets. Most HyperX headsets are not customizable or feature-packed, but they offer great sound and microphone quality.
HyperX headsets are typically wired, but they do have a few wireless options. While HyperX makes officially licensed PS4 and Xbox One headsets, their wired headsets work with any console. In addition, their PC-specific headsets use USB connections and provide excellent sound quality. While HyperX is known for their wired headsets, they do offer some wireless models and headsets that can be used wired or via Bluetooth. Some models may have 7.1 virtual surround sound for a more immersive gaming experience. All HyperX headsets are over-ear for maximum comfort, and some may include extra ear cushions.
The variety of HyperX headsets can be intimidating, but they offer models for any budget. Our shopping guide will walk you through their common features and variations.
Key considerations
HyperX produces a variety of mid-range to high-end gaming headsets with excellent sound quality. Before you start browsing HyperX headsets, you should consider your gaming platform and whether you prefer to go wired or wireless.
Wired
HyperX made its name with wired headsets, and the lack of latency is a major perk for competitive gamers.
HyperX headsets may connect to your console, controller, or computer via USB or 3.5mm jack. All HyperX wired headsets draw power from the device they are connected to, so there is no need to worry about batteries.
In some cases, the cable may be detachable, which is useful if you need to replace the cable. Many higher-end HyperX headsets have extra-durable braided cables.
Wireless
HyperX’s main wireless headset is the Cloud Stinger Wireless, which features a 2.4GHz wireless connection via a USB receiver.
The HyperX Cloud MIX is primarily a wired headset, but it also features a Bluetooth mode. For an option that falls somewhere between the MIX and the Stinger, the Cloud Flight is a great mid-range headset that uses a USB receiver.
Battery life in HyperX headsets usually ranges from 15 to 20 hours, and they charge in 2 to 4 hours with an included USB charging cable.
Sound quality
Whether you are gaming, watching a movie, or listening to music, sound quality is crucial. Though HyperX headsets are known for their high sound quality, that can vary from model to model.
Driver size
The driver is the element inside the headset that converts an electrical signal into sound. In general, larger drivers equal better range and better overall sound. Most HyperX headsets have drivers ranging from 40mm to 53mm.
Audio type
HyperX headsets either have stereo sound or virtual 7.1 surround sound, which simulates a surround sound experience. In general, HyperX’s stereo headsets sound great, but gamers who don’t want to miss a thing may prefer the surround sound models, such as the Cloud II.
Did you know?
All HyperX headsets have over-ear designs to allow for hours of comfortable gaming.
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Features
Though HyperX headsets don’t usually come with a lot of bells and whistles, they still vary in their features and design. Following are some of the features you can look for.
Sound controls
Most HyperX headsets have either in-line or on-ear volume controls for the headphones themselves. In some cases, controls for microphone levels may also be included.
Durability
The high quality construction of most HyperX headsets means you don’t have to worry much about durability. Their headsets typically have steel or aluminum frames that won’t break easily but still allow for some flexibility. Some less expensive models may have plastic frames, but these do not creak and groan as with other cheap plastic headsets.
Microphone
HyperX headphones are noise-cancelling, with a polar pattern that captures only your voice. Though as the speaker rather than the listener you won’t be able to appreciate it, the microphone quality of HyperX headsets is clear and consistent.
Some models allow you to detach the headset from the microphone boom, which may be stiff plastic or bendable metal. This can be a useful feature if you plan to use your headphones for more than gaming.
Some headsets have a mute button, usually near the other volume controls, while other models have a convenient “swivel-to-mute” feature.
Comfort
HyperX headsets have generous ear cushions that may be covered in leatherette or velour and padded with foam or HyperX’s signature memory foam. Some models, such as the HyperX Cloud II, may include two sets of ear cushions that can be easily swapped out.
"HyperX headsets are compatible with PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, and Mac. "
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HyperX headset prices
Inexpensive: Headsets in the $30 to $50 range may be wired or wireless and will offer decent quality overall. While the sound quality won’t match the more expensive models, it may surpass comparably priced headsets by other brands.
Mid-range: The bulk of HyperX headsets fall in the range of $50 to $100, and these will include a wide offering of wired headsets and the classic Cloud Stinger Wireless. These often have durable aluminum frames and may have memory foam ear cushions.
Expensive: High-end HyperX headsets for $100 to $200 offer excellent sound quality (including 7.1 virtual surround sound in some cases) and additional features, such as a Bluetooth option or additional ear cushions. These are high-quality headsets for serious gamers.
Tips
- HyperX headsets are durable, but a carrying case can go a long way in keeping your headphones safe.
- If a component such as the microphone or wireless USB receiver breaks, you can always purchase a new one individually.
- Though HyperX Bluetooth headsets can work for gaming, latency may be an issue. A wired connection is the best way to avoid audio lag.
FAQ
Q. Do HyperX headsets come with a warranty?
A. Most HyperX headsets are covered by a two-year warranty, though check the specific terms of the warranty for a headset before you buy.
Q. Are the parts of HyperX headsets interchangeable?
A. Parts such as microphones and 3.5mm headphone cables are interchangeable, but ear cups are not always interchangeable.
Q. Are HyperX headsets compatible with all consoles and computers?
A. As long as you have the proper output (3.5mm audio or USB), HyperX headsets are compatible with all gaming devices. However, 7.1 surround sound is not compatible with all consoles. If this is a feature you are looking to make the most of, you should read customer reviews to see whether your console supports surround sound.
