HyperX Cloud III Gaming Headset Review: Conditional Buy
The surprising takeaway from user discussions is that while the HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset is marketed as an evolution of the beloved Cloud II with "impeccable audio" and "legendary comfort," many gamers rate it a conditional buy—comfort scores high, but sound quality perceptions vary wildly across platforms. Overall verdict: 7.5/10.
Quick Verdict: Conditional
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely comfortable memory foam ear cushions and padded headband | Inconsistent audio quality across devices/games |
| Durable metal frame with premium braided cable | Not as bass-heavy or powerful as Cloud II for some users |
| Clear, noise-cancelling 10mm microphone with LED mute indicator | Crosstalk issues reported with volume wheel |
| Multi-platform compatibility (PC, consoles, mobile) | DTS spatial audio requires setup; default sound can feel flat |
| Convenient onboard controls | Some distortion with USB DAC in certain genres |
| Strong mic clarity appreciated in voice chat | Clamping force slightly tight initially |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing emphasizes "angled 53mm drivers tuned for impeccable audio." This aligns with some Best Buy buyers, like atlas, who noted: “The sound quality of the headset itself is very nice. I didn’t have to adjust the tones or anything.” However, Reddit discussions show a different reality—multiple users describe the default audio as "tinny" or "flat" until DTS Sound Unbound or third-party EQ adjustments are applied. One Reddit user admitted: “Audio sounded like ass until I installed and enabled this.”
Another claim is "crystal-clear 10mm microphone" with noise cancellation. This is widely confirmed. Jesusc on Best Buy praised: “My favorite part is the mic… picks up everything clearly.” Even Reddit critics of the sound quality often concede the mic upgrade from Cloud II is notable for clarity and removing foam in favor of a built-in mesh.
Finally, HyperX promotes "comfort for long gaming sessions" as part of its DNA. Here, marketing matches reality across platforms—Trustpilot reviewers, Reddit threads, and Best Buy buyers consistently describe plush memory foam and soft leatherette as exceptionally comfortable. Kaylin shared: “Barely even notice it after a while… extremely comfortable.”
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Comfort is the standout feature. Across Reddit, Best Buy, and Trustpilot, users with glasses or marathon gaming habits report minimal fatigue. Bradr explained that in Valorant, “they are comfortable for hours, even with my glasses on.” The combination of plush earcups and solid build allows extended wear without hotspots.
Microphone performance is another consistent win. Best Buy’s katie l rated it “amazing” for not picking up much background noise, while Reddit gamers appreciated the natural sound of voice with sharp consonants clearly captured. For streamers and competitive players, this reliability removes the distraction of troubleshooting comms mid-match.
Durability also earns trust. The aluminum frame and braided cable are repeatedly mentioned as high-quality touches. Pons on Best Buy assured skeptics: “The headband is very strong and sturdy but comfortable… braided cable feels premium.”
Common Complaints
Sound quality is the most divisive element. On Reddit, some describe it as worse than Cloud II, with bass lacking and treble exaggerated. One user compared it to “$10 headphones” until software tweaks improved it. FPS players in titles like CS2 and COD Warzone often complain about poor soundstage and “underwater” audio without DTS enabled.
A technical flaw noted by one Reddit user involves crosstalk through the volume wheel—audio from L+R channels bleeding into the mic even when muted or detached. This affects streamers and Discord users who risk broadcasting unintended sounds.
Volume levels also disappoint some. A Best Buy reviewer, master tarex, found aux cable use “a little wanting in volume and detail” until switching to USB DAC and installing Ngenuity. Others note distortion in bass-heavy genres when using the included DAC.
Divisive Features
DTS Headphone:X spatial audio splits opinion. When enabled via DTS Sound Unbound, users call it transformative—one Reddit comment: “Such a simple setting improves the sound quality tenfold.” Yet, others dislike its high-pitched tone or resent the setup requirement, especially if they expected plug-and-play excellence.
The bass profile is another split. Some gamers appreciate the clearer mids and highs for competitive play, while music listeners miss the rumble of explosions or low-end depth. Jesusc on Best Buy cautioned: “No bass… do yourself the favor and get an actual music-only headphone instead.”
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot feedback and Reddit long-term reports suggest build quality holds up over months, with minimal wear on ear cushions and frame. Mariahs on Best Buy confirmed: “Still working great after 6 months.” However, software reliability raises concerns—users report Ngenuity losing EQ presets or mic functionality until reinstalled.
Crosstalk engineering issues undermine trust for those needing clean mic channels, particularly in streaming contexts. While not universal, its persistence in certain setups points to a hardware design oversight rather than isolated defect.
Alternatives
The most frequent comparison is to the HyperX Cloud II. Many veterans prefer the older model’s sound profile, describing Cloud III as less bass-heavy and quieter. DennyL stated: “Overall the HyperX Cloud 2’s are better.” Others mention Logitech G Pro X as having superior soundstage, though build quality lags.
SteelSeries Arctis 3 also appears in Reddit threads, with one user noting: “Specs of the Cloud 3 are better and newer but the metal kind of ruins the audio… my SteelSeries headset sounds better.”
Price & Value
Current listings show a discounted price around £69.98–$75 on sale, down from £101.99–$139.99. Best Buy buyers call it “worth the base price, but a steal when it goes on sale.” eBay resale suggests limited availability, meaning secondary market prices can match retail if demand spikes.
Community buying tips include verifying DTS activation before judging sound quality and considering third-party EQ apps like FxSound to unlock bass and volume potential.
FAQ
Q: Does DTS Headphone:X come included?
A: Yes, it has a lifetime license, but you must install DTS Sound Unbound from the Microsoft Store. Multiple users confirm no code is needed—activation occurs when connecting the headset.
Q: Is the Cloud III better than Cloud II?
A: Comfort and mic clarity are improved, but many users prefer Cloud II’s sound profile, especially for bass and loudness. Some feel Cloud III requires more tweaking to match Cloud II’s audio punch.
Q: Can I fix the flat sound without DTS?
A: Yes, apps like FxSound or Ngenuity EQ settings can help. Reddit users report boosting bass and adjusting mids restores depth without DTS.
Q: Is it good for console gaming?
A: Yes, with 3.5mm and USB options, it works on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Switch. FPS players benefit from clear positional audio once settings are optimized.
Q: Does the microphone detach?
A: Yes, it’s fully detachable and features a built-in mesh pop filter with noise cancellation.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a multi-platform gamer who values comfort, durability, and mic clarity—especially if willing to fine-tune audio via DTS or EQ apps. Avoid if you want powerful, bass-rich sound out-of-the-box without software setup. Pro tip from community: enable DTS Sound Unbound immediately for a dramatic improvement in game audio.
