HyperX Cloud Stinger Headset Review

1. Introduction2. Unboxing and First Look3. Testing4. Closing Thoughts5. View All Pages

The Cloud Stinger is a budget headset (at £49.99) from HyperX – the gaming peripheral manufacturer that has built up an excellent reputation in the headset sector thanks to its Cloud and Cloud II devices.

Rather than just ‘cheaping-out' when manufacturing the Cloud Stinger, HyperX used the opportunity to include a number of new features not present in the more expensive headsets of its range. My favourite of these is the on-ear volume control, which soon becomes intuitive – but does take a bit of getting used to. Another great feature is the rotating ear cups, while the standard HyperX memory foam ear cup padding remains.

The overall construction is just a bit plasticky for my liking, though. I can fully appreciate that the Cloud Stinger is built to a price and it is never going to look or feel as great as the Cloud II, for example. However, I am just a bit concerned the headset may not stand the test of time too well – particularly if you are inclined to get a bit aggressive with your peripherals when things are not going well in-game.

That being said, audio quality is great for the price. The bass is very powerful and adds depth to the gaming experience. The bass does lack a bit of refinement when compared with its more expensive counterparts, though, but this is to be expected at this price point.

The punchy mid-range and sharp high-end is great for dialogue, however – in-game speech and movies, for example, are perfectly crisp and well-balanced. Add that to the clear mic, and the headset on offer is very impressive for the price.

All-in-all, if you are a gamer on a budget, I am happy to recommend the HyperX Cloud Stinger. It offers great audio quality for the price, as well as a number of new features that I appreciate. If you can afford the extra £20-25, though, the Cloud II offers improved audio clarity and a sturdier construction.

You can buy one for £49.99 from Overclockers UK HERE.

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Pros

• Attractively priced.
• New features are introduced such as rotating ear cups.
• Audio quality is great for the money.
• Comfy to use.

Cons

• Construction does feel a bit plasticky.
• The Cloud II offers a better all-round package for £20-25 more.

KitGuru says: If you absolutely cannot spend more than £50 on a headset, we are happy to recommend the Cloud Stinger wholeheartedly. However, if your budget can be pushed that bit further, you may thank yourself down-the-line by going for the Cloud II instead.

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