HyperX Cloud III Review: Comfort Meets Punchy Sound

When it comes to gaming headsets, the HyperX Cloud series has been a fan favorite for nearly a decade—and for good reason. Known for their plush comfort, reliable build quality, and solid sound performance, HyperX has built a reputation among PC, console, and even casual mobile gamers. Now, in 2024, the brand returns with a long-awaited upgrade: the HyperX Cloud III.

Is it just a cosmetic refresh, or does the Cloud III offer real improvements? We put this headset through its paces in real-world gaming, music, and voice chat scenarios. Spoiler alert: it's more than just a pretty face.

TL;DR Summary

• Platform Compatibility: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, mobile (via 3.5mm or USB-C)

• Connection Options: Detachable 3.5mm cable, USB-C dongle (with included USB-A adapter)

• Drivers: 53mm custom-tuned dynamic drivers

• Mic: Detachable noise-canceling mic

• Weight: Approx. 300g (without cable)

• Price: ~$99.99 USD

Design and Comfort: Cloud DNA Lives On

HyperX knows not to mess with success when it comes to comfort, and the Cloud III is a testament to that. You’re getting the same memory foam ear cushions and padded leatherette headband that made the original Cloud so comfortable for long sessions.

Build Quality

The frame is made of solid aluminum, giving it a premium yet lightweight feel. The joints feel sturdy, and the headset flexes just enough without feeling fragile. The matte black finish with red accents looks sleek without screaming "gamer gear."

Long Session Approved

We wore the Cloud III for a full day of work and evening gaming without needing a break. The clamp force is moderate—snug enough to stay secure but loose enough to avoid fatigue.

Pro Tip: If you wear glasses, you’ll be happy to know this headset plays well with frames.

Audio Performance: Tuned for Gamers (and More)

Gaming Audio

The 53mm drivers deliver what HyperX fans have come to expect: crisp highs, strong mids, and punchy bass. Whether you're tracking footsteps in Apex Legends or listening to ambient world-building in The Last of Us Part I, the positional audio is clean and immersive.

The Cloud III supports virtual 3D spatial audio via DTS Headphone:X (when connected via USB), which works well for competitive shooters and narrative-driven games alike. It doesn’t quite reach audiophile-grade precision, but it absolutely holds its own in the sub-$100 category.

Music and Media

While the Cloud III is clearly tuned for gaming, it doesn’t fall flat when you switch to music or YouTube. The low end is a bit boosted—perfect for bass-heavy genres like EDM or hip-hop—but it still handles vocals and acoustic instruments with clarity.

Mic Performance

The detachable mic features noise-canceling tech and an LED mute indicator. Voice clarity is excellent for Discord calls, Zoom meetings, and in-game chat. While not a studio-grade mic, it’s absolutely sufficient for streamers on a budget or casual content creators.

Bonus: Mic monitoring is supported via USB, so you can hear your own voice to avoid shouting over team chat.

Connectivity and Controls

Plug-and-Play Simplicity

You get both a 3.5mm cable and a USB-C dongle with a USB-A adapter. This means you can plug into virtually any platform with minimal hassle. No software is required for basic functionality—just plug in and go.

In-Line Controls

Simple and functional: a volume wheel and mic mute switch on the cable. The USB-C connection also enables advanced features like DTS Headphone:X and mic monitoring without needing to install extra software.

Compatibility Across Platforms

One of the Cloud III’s strongest points is its versatility. It works seamlessly with:

• PC: Full feature set including DTS Headphone:X

• PlayStation 5 & PS4: USB or 3.5mm

• Xbox Series X/S & Xbox One: 3.5mm only (no DTS support)

• Nintendo Switch: 3.5mm for handheld or docked use

• Mobile Devices: USB-C or 3.5mm

This makes it a great pick for gamers who bounce between multiple platforms.

Real-World Testing: What We Loved

1. All-Day Comfort

HyperX continues to deliver some of the most comfortable gaming headsets on the market. No hotspots, no ear fatigue—even after a full work-and-play day.

2. Crisp, Balanced Audio

While not studio-accurate, the sound profile is dynamic and immersive. We were especially impressed by the clarity in FPS games and the atmosphere in open-world titles.

3. Great Mic and Monitoring

Mic quality exceeded expectations, and built-in monitoring is a feature you don’t often see at this price point.

4. Zero Software Headaches

You don’t have to download HyperX software to get started, and the USB dongle does a great job enabling premium features right out of the box.

What Could Be Better

• No Wireless Option: In a world moving toward cable-free setups, the Cloud III sticks with wired-only options.

• No RGB or App Customization: If you love tweaking EQ settings or syncing RGB with your other gear, you won’t find that here.

• Limited DTS on Consoles: DTS Headphone:X is only supported via USB, so Xbox and Switch users don’t get the full experience.

The Competition: How It Stacks Up

Headset	Price	Comfort	Sound	Mic	Platform Support
HyperX Cloud III	$99.99	★★★★★	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	PC, Console, Mobile
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1	$59.99	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆	PC, Console
Logitech G435	$79.99	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆	PC, Console, Wireless
Razer BlackShark V2	$99.99	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	PC, Console

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the HyperX Cloud III?

If you want a headset that nails the basics—and then some—the HyperX Cloud III is a stellar pick. For under $100, you're getting excellent comfort, punchy sound, and broad platform compatibility without the need to fuss with software or RGB bloatware.

While it doesn't reinvent the wheel, it refines what the Cloud line has always done well: deliver a no-nonsense, high-quality gaming experience at a fair price.

Rating: 9/10 – One of the best wired gaming headsets under $100.

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