HyperX Cloud III Headset Review

I’ll admit that there was a point when I regretted spending my hard-earned money on video gaming peripherals such as controllers and headsets. Compared to brand spanking new video games, I didn’t think these purchases were exciting, but as I’ve gotten older, these useful pieces of technology with snazzy new capabilities make me as excited as the games I play with them. After reviewing a great range of headsets over the years, my expectations are now quite high, but the HyperX Cloud III did not disappoint.

First impressions are everything when it comes to new technology, and the HyperX Cloud III made sure we got off to a good start right away. The aluminium housing ensures that you have a luxury product in your hands, with enough weight to indicate that it is not a cheap product. Admittedly, the all-black headset I received for this review did not stick out from the crowd, but there are variations based on your preferences, including a snazzier red and black combo.

If I’m going to be wearing a headset for extended periods of tense multiplayer gameplay, one of my top objectives will always be comfort. Too many headsets have left me with a hot head and clammy ears in the past, and now that I’ve tried more comfortable alternatives, I refuse to return. Fortunately, the HyperX Cloud III is really comfortable: it simply feels cozy thanks to the memory foam ear cups, and it only clamps lightly while worn, preventing the dreaded sweaty head. The comfort does not come at the expense of structural strength, as this headset is designed to withstand a battering from an angry gamer who has just been sniped from across the battlefield.

Nothing about the comfort or construction quality of these headphones would matter if the sound quality was poor, yet the HyperX Cloud III does not disappoint in this regard. The audio is excellent, and the default assures a well-balanced profile (albeit the bass may be lacking). Obviously, for the mid-range $90 price point, it can’t compete with the most outrageously premium headphones that cost five times the price, but if you’re not a particularly discerning audiophile, you’ll be impressed with the crisp audio that gives you the edge in a frantic FPS shootout.

Continuing the subject of the HyperX Cloud III’s outstanding performance, let us discuss the microphone quality. I’ve never tested a more clear mic than the Cloud III, and while it seems a little strange to use that sound, it assures that everything you say is heard by your teammates, which is a trade-off I’m prepared to make. It does mean that for streamers, this is unlikely to be the all-purpose headset they’re looking for, but there are plenty of other headsets that prioritize that specific niche above people who simply want to play games with their friends.

For me, there’s nothing better than receiving a new piece of technology and gradually finding the subtle details that distinguish it, especially when these improve your day-to-day use. One of the HyperX Cloud III’s most ingenious features is the tiny red LED on the end of the microphone, which illuminates when you’re muted. The days of embarrassingly chatting to yourself on mute are over, because you’ll always know when you’ve clicked the button. Another modest but useful feature of the Cloud III is the volume wheel, which can be easily adjusted to even the smallest level. The small elements have been meticulously designed here, resulting in a better overall experience.

The lack of Bluetooth is one of the HyperX Cloud III’s shortcomings in comparison to other headsets I’ve evaluated and used over the years. Now, admittedly, this headset is marketed as a gaming headset rather than one that “does it all,” but for a somewhat lower price, you could purchase a headset that can be used for anything, such as the Rig 600 Pro. If that’s not what you’re looking for, you’ll be more than satisfied with HyperX, and it’s difficult to feel horrible about your purchase decision when your head is enjoying a warm foamy hug from this excellent metal product.

For the mid-tier price point, there aren’t many better headset options than the HyperX Cloud III. With fantastic sound quality, a particularly clear mic, and a whole lot of comfort, this headset accomplishes pretty much everything you could expect from a dedicated gaming device. The lack of Bluetooth means you can’t use it for all of your audio demands, but if that’s not a concern for you, the Cloud III is a very simple purchase.