HyperX Cloud Stinger Wireless Review
HyperX Cloud Stinger Wireless
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For many years now, HyperX has been a leading name on all things PC; whether it be peripherals or internal components, HyperX provides a top-tier catalog for all of your PC gaming needs. In keeping with this high standard, the HyperX Cloud Stinger Wireless aims to provide a top-level wireless gaming audio experience at a sub-$100 price point. This is an ambitious goal to be sure, but how will the Cloud Stinger Wireless match up to its competitors? Let’s find out!
As with all HyperX headsets, the Cloud Stinger Wireless offers a comfort level that is above and beyond the competition. This is immediately noticeable upon donning the headset for the first time, as the ear cups slip effortlessly onto your head and you realize there is very little pressure anywhere on your head, in part thanks to the extraordinarily lightweight yet sturdy design of the Cloud Stinger Wireless.
The adjustability of the Cloud Stinger Wireless is also very impressive as it is one of the only headsets that I do not wear on the furthest-extended setting, meaning that almost any size of person will feel comfortable in this headset. This comfort level is well-sustained through even the longest gaming sessions of 8+ hours continuous use.
Speaking of long gaming sessions, another big plus of the Cloud Stinger Wireless is how long the battery life lasts. The website boasts a 17-hour battery life and while that sounded unrealistic at first, in practice I noticed that was quite accurate within 1-2 hours. Still, 15 hours of battery life is more than enough for the average user to go 3-4 days without charging, while heavier users will still be able to go, at minimum, a full day without charging.
The sound quality offered by the Cloud Stinger Wireless certainly punches above its weight. While it can be, at times, noticeably flatter than a top-tier headset, it by no means is a distraction. With its 50mm drivers I was able to hear directional sound clearly while gaming and enjoyed a satisfactory dynamic range while listening to a variety of music thanks to the enhanced bass. Keeping in mind that this is a wireless gaming headset that costs under $100, the sound quality offered is a pleasant surprise.
As far as the wireless capability goes, there was no disruption at approx. 20 feet through 2 walls, and honestly if you’re further from your computer than that you likely don’t need your headset on any longer. It is also worth noting that I did not experience a single ‘blip’ in the entirety of my 50+ hours using this headset.
‘Blips’ are the unofficial name that I have given to those split-second interruptions that wireless headsets are notorious for. They seem to happen at any range and vary in causation. While not overly hindering, they can become a nuisance or annoyance if they occur too frequently. No such issues with the Cloud Stinger Wireless, the connection was stable the entire time.
The microphone quality is frequently (if not always) the crux of wireless and affordable headsets. Considering the Cloud Stinger Wireless is both wireless and affordable, my expectations for the microphone were pretty low. To my surprise, however, HyperX managed to incorporate a very usable microphone in this headset, which is a huge victory as far as I am concerned.
While there is certainly some background noise that comes through, and I would not recommend the mic for any voice recordings, it does provide clear enough sound to communicate to teammates in games without being distracting. Again, I cannot stress enough how big of a win this is for a wireless headset at this pricepoint. I have seen much more expensive wireless headsets and similarly priced wired headsets with worse mics by far.
As for bells and whistles, this headset comes with basic audio controls on the ear cup and flip-up mute for the microphone, both of which have become industry standards that are nice to see included.
Sound Quality: 4/5 With an acceptable dynamic range and surprising depth of sound only just under that of a top-tier headset, the Cloud Stinger Wireless provides incredible value on sound.
Mic Quality: 3.5/5 The true downfall of many wireless and affordable headsets lies in their microphones and thankfully the Cloud Stinger Wireless defies this trend with a very usable mic for team communications.
Comfort: 4.5/5 The light weight of the headset combines with comfortable ear cups and good extension to provide an exceptional level of comfort that lasts for your whole gaming session, no matter how long.
Durability 4.5/5 Even with its lightweight design, the HyperX Cloud Stinger Wireless is sturdy and reliable.
Compatibiltiy: 4/5 While only tested on PC, this headset is also compatible with PS4/PS4 Pro. Xbox users are out of luck.
Overall Value: 4.25/5 Overall, the Cloud Stinger Wireless is a great option for gamers on the go who are looking for a compact wireless headset to accompany them on their travels or for light-medium users who are looking for a solid wireless headset without breaking the bank.
For more information on the HyperX Cloud Stinger Wireless, visit: https://www.hyperxgaming.com/us/headsets/cloud-stinger-wireless-headset