HyperX Cloud III Renewed Review: Comfort Wins, Bass Lags
Few headsets spark such sharply divided opinions as the HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset (Renewed) — praised for comfort and microphone clarity, yet called out for muted bass and occasional engineering quirks. Across hundreds of reviews, this model lands a solid 8.5/10 from everyday gamers, streamers, and remote workers.
Quick Verdict: Conditional buy — excellent for competitive gamers and long work calls, less ideal for bass-lovers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable memory foam ear cushions | Bass response lacks punch for music/immersive explosions |
| Durable aluminum frame | Some units have low volume output |
| Clear, noise-cancelling 10mm microphone | Cable length could be longer |
| DTS spatial audio improves positional awareness | Volume wheel design can cause rare crosstalk issues |
| Multi-platform compatibility (PC, PS5, Xbox, Switch, mobile) | Tight clamping force for some head sizes |
| On-ear volume and mic mute controls | No detachable cable |
Claims vs Reality
HyperX markets the Cloud III as “a legend reborn” — an evolution of the Cloud II with angled 53mm drivers “tuned for impeccable audio” and “comfort in its DNA.” On paper, the inclusion of plush memory foam, a bigger mic capsule, and DTS® spatial audio sets it up as a true competitive gaming tool.
Yet Reddit user feedback reveals where reality diverges. One meticulous test from Reddit user u/[name withheld] discovered “horrible crosstalk… somewhere in the headset isn’t engineered correct and allows crosstalk between L+R and the microphone,” linked to the onboard volume wheel. Even with the microphone detached, this interference persisted until the volume was rolled down.
Another community claim — “balanced soundscape with improved clarity” — is largely confirmed by FPS fans. A verified Best Buy purchaser wrote: “Because of the 3D way sound comes through… it is very easy to tell when someone is sneaking up on you and from where.” But for bass-heavy genres like EDM or cinematic single-player games, several users on Trustpilot and Best Buy agreed the “bass could be better” and explosions “fall flat.”
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Comfort is the most consistent praise. The HyperX signature memory foam cushions and padded headband make marathon use viable. Reddit user u/[name withheld] declared it “hands down the best HyperX has ever made in terms of build and comfort,” noting light clamping force and plush feel during multi-hour sessions.
Microphone quality stands out above its price bracket. On Best Buy, one owner wrote: “The microphone is really nice… my coworkers report hearing me well through the mic. Good for gaming too.” Trustpilot reviewers echo this, calling the mic “clear and crisp by default” without EQ tweaks — vital for streamers or remote workers relying on clean voice capture.
Durability is another shared highlight. Users appreciate the metal yokes replacing Cloud II’s weaker plastic joints, plus a thicker braided cable. One verified buyer emphasized, “The outside of it is metal and not plastic… sets the standard when we need durability.”
Common Complaints
Bass performance emerges as the most frequent letdown, especially for entertainment beyond competitive gaming. Trustpilot user jesusc noted, “Little to no bass… explosions and gunfire sound loud and full” but lacked depth compared to expectations. This resonates with Redditers who describe the Cloud III’s low and mid-bass as “demphasized,” trading rumble for clarity.
Volume output divides owners — some say it’s adequate, others require USB DACs or software boosts. One Best Buy buyer remarked that “plugging in via aux cable leaves it a little wanting in volume and detail,” though USB DAC use improved it.
Cable length and the non-detachable design draw minor gripes. A few setups require extensions, with one Amazon customer explaining, “Had to get a USB extension… due to my desk setup.”
Divisive Features
The new sound profile — more neutral than the bass/treble boost of Cloud II — splits opinion. For competitive shooter players, the restrained bass sharpens positional audio. “Feels like cheats in positioning footsteps,” claimed a Reddit FPS enthusiast. But bass heads and music lovers often prefer the Cloud Alpha or older models.
Clamping force is another split point: tight enough for stability, but slightly uncomfortable after hours for those with larger heads. One gamer measured their hat size at 7-3/4 and admitted to some discomfort after extended wear.
Trust & Reliability
Scam or short-life concerns were minimal in verified reviews. On durability, multiple Reddit and Best Buy users report months of fault-free daily use. Best Buy customer emilyh noted, “Have had them for around 6 months and still working great!” Likewise, a Trustpilot reviewer praised the resilience, saying, “All have broken except this one.”
The main reliability flaw is that rare crosstalk issue tied to the volume wheel — not universal, but concerning for streamers. This isn't a widespread defect, yet for those who rely on isolated audio channels, it’s a dealbreaker.
Alternatives
From within HyperX’s lineup, the Cloud Alpha was repeatedly suggested for bass lovers, offering fuller sound for music and open-world games without losing positional clarity. Reddit reviewers advise competitive FPS gamers to stick with the Cloud III’s balanced tuning, while recommending the Alpha for general entertainment.
Cloud II, once the go-to, is now seen as eclipsed in microphone performance but still preferred by some for its bass-rich profile. A Trustpilot user summed up: “Cloud 2’s are better” for comfort and bass, but lose to Cloud III in imaging and build.
Price & Value
Renewed units often list far below MSRP — recent eBay sales hit $35, while retail hovers near $99. Even new Black Friday deals dipped to $67. Price history from India shows a lowest renewed price of ₹4,028.81, suggesting decent resale retention, with averages around ₹5,911.
Community buying tips focus on sale timing. Best Buy reviewers repeatedly call it a “steal when it goes on sale,” and multiple owners grabbed theirs at $60–$75 rather than full price. Given durability reports, used or renewed units make sense if verified.
FAQ
Q: Is the HyperX Cloud III compatible with consoles and mobile devices?
A: Yes. Users routinely connect it to PC, PS5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Mac, and mobiles via 3.5mm, USB-A, or USB-C. No special drivers required.
Q: Does DTS spatial audio work on consoles?
A: DTS® Headphone:X is PC-focused, but console players still benefit from angled driver design and stereo positional cues.
Q: Can you replace the ear cushions?
A: Yes. They’re removable memory foam pads, allowing replacement if worn or for customization.
Q: Is the microphone detachable?
A: Yes. Several owners remove it when using standalone mics or for non-gaming activities.
Q: Any audio issues reported?
A: A minority experience low volume on analog connections and one documented crosstalk flaw tied to the volume wheel. Most report clean sound otherwise.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re a competitive gamer or remote worker who prioritizes comfort, clear mic quality, and positional audio over cinematic bass. Avoid if you’re a bass enthusiast or rely on absolute channel isolation for professional streaming.
Pro tip from the community: “If you’re looking at $60/$70 headphones, spend a little extra and grab these — they are worth it,” advises a long-time Best Buy reviewer, but make that ‘extra’ closer to $67–$75 during sales for maximum value.
