For the longest time, the gaming headset industry has been dominated by cords, cords, and more cords. The HyperX Cloud Core is hoping to change that with a wireless release at a very reasonable price point. Also available in a corded variant, the Cloud Core sits somewhat in the middle of the HyperX lineup but still offers excellent sound and features. For its part, HyperX is long associated with gaming headsets, so when they release a wireless version of a popular model, gamers take notice.
Offering 3D spatial audio, a noise-canceling microphone, and up to 20 hours of battery life, there are definitely more than enough features with the Cloud Core Wireless to keep the majority of gamers happy. Not to mention the Cloud Core Wireless features HyperX’s signature comfort with memory foam and durable build quality.
Let’s take a deeper look at the HyperX Cloud Core Wireless edition and see if it’s right for you.
Overview of the HyperX Cloud Core Wireless
The HyperX Cloud Core Wireless headset was released on November 16, 2021. It is priced at $99.99, but is often available at $79.99 from major retailers.
There are two models in the Cloud Core line – the wireless version reviewed here, and a cheaper wired variant.
Key Features
Some standout features of the HyperX Cloud Core Wireless include:
- Wireless connectivity via a USB dongle with up to 20 hours battery life
- DTS Headphone:X spatial audio for immersive 3D sound
- Large 53mm drivers with neodymium magnets
- Memory foam ear cushions for comfort
- Noise-canceling and detachable microphone
It lacks some of the premium features found on higher-end HyperX headsets like Bluetooth connectivity or customizable EQ through the NGENUITY software. But at this price point, the Cloud Core Wireless packs an impressive amount of value.
Design and Build Quality
The overall design of the Cloud Core Wireless is fairly muted and understated. The classic HyperX black color scheme dominates, with a subtle red logo on the earcups being the only real flair.
Build quality is excellent thanks to a lightweight but durable aluminum frame. The leatherette ear cushions enclosing the large 53mm audio drivers feel plush and comfortable. And at only 0.62 pounds, the headset doesn‘t weigh down your head even during longer gaming sessions.
The microphone is on a flexible boom arm, allowing you to position it exactly where you want. And it features noise-canceling technology to block out ambient sounds.
Audio Performance and Features
With its powerful 53mm neodymium drivers, audio performance on the Cloud Core Wireless is highly impressive. The sound profile delivers punchy bass, clear mids, and crisp highs that let you fully immerse yourself while gaming. Explosions boom with impact, while dialogue cuts through perfectly so you never miss in-game chatter.
But the real star of the show is the included DTS Headphone:X technology. This advanced spatial audio solution recreates the feeling of surround sound, with accurate 3D positional audio that lets you pinpoint sound effects and environments. Footsteps, gunfire, and other audio cues feel like they are happening all around you, taking immersion to the next level.
You‘ll need to install the DTS Sound Unbound app to take full advantage of this. And compatibility will vary depending on the game. But when activated, the surround sound capabilities are extremely convincing. Just note there is no option for true 7.1 surround sound, which may disappoint some buyers.
Gaming Performance
Thanks to its wireless design, excellent audio, and long 20 hour battery life – gaming with the HyperX Cloud Core Wireless is an absolute pleasure. The freedom of no wires, combined with punchy immersive sound lets you dive deep into the action without distractions.
The wireless range is strong and stable up to about 15-20 feet from the USB dongle. Latency is impressively low, meaning no lag or audio sync issues. Just pure, wire-free audio bliss.
Some gamers may lament the lack of Bluetooth connectivity. Without it, use with mobile devices is limited. But for PC and PlayStation gaming, performance is top-notch. Just make sure spatial audio is activated for best results!
Microphone Quality
Microphone quality is perfectly adequate for voice chat and in-game communications. Voices come across clearly and cleanly, with no muffling or fuzziness. The flexible mic boom also makes it easy to position the microphone exactly where you need it.
Some background noise cancellation is applied automatically to block ambient sounds. And certified compatibility with Discord, TeamSpeak and other apps means connecting to chat is quick and simple.
Don‘t expect broadcast quality vocals or production-ready recordings. But for everyday gaming chat and strategizing with teammates, the mic on the Cloud Core Wireless gets the job done.
Battery Life
The quoted battery life of the HyperX Cloud Core Wireless is 20 hours. And in testing, real world performance lives up to those claims. You can easily go through multi-hour gaming marathons, listening at moderate volumes, without needing to recharge.
Of course, cranking the volume to max levels may decrease battery faster. But even then, you‘re still looking at 15+ hours comfortably. Either way, it‘s more than enough juice to outlast even the most epic gaming sessions.
Recharging the headset takes around 3 hours from empty to full. Just note there is no wall adapter included, so you‘ll need to provide your own USB charger.
Compatibility
The HyperX Cloud Core Wireless uses a 2.4Ghz wireless USB connection, rather than Bluetooth. This allows low latency connections with PCs and PlayStation consoles, but does limit broader compatibility.
Officially, HyperX states compatibility with PC, PS4 and PS5. But users have reported successful connections with the Nintendo Switch as well when using the wireless USB dongle.
However, there is no advertised compatibility with Xbox consoles. The lack of 3.5mm audio jack prevents easy connections to an Xbox controller. And the wireless USB protocol differs from Xbox‘s proprietary system. So Xbox use is largely out of the question.
Pros and Cons
Here are some summarized pros and cons of the HyperX Cloud Core Wireless:
Pros:
- Wireless freedom
- Excellent audio quality
- DTS Headphone:X spatial surround sound
- 20 hour battery life
- Memory foam ear cushions provide comfort
- Noise-canceling microphone
Cons:
- No Bluetooth connectivity
- No Xbox compatibility
- No 7.1 surround sound option
- No access to NGENUITY software
So in summary – the HyperX Cloud Core Wireless brings very impressive audio, comfort and wireless freedom to the table at this reasonable price point. Just don‘t expect premium features or universal device support. Prioritize PC and PlayStation gaming to get the most out of them!
Should You Buy the HyperX Cloud Core Wireless?
The HyperX Cloud Core Wireless brings premium features like spatial surround sound and 20 hour battery life at a mid-range price point. Making it easy to recommend – as long as your needs and expectations align properly.
Buy It If…
You want an affordable wireless headset primarily for PC gaming. With spatial audio and marathon-ready battery life, the Cloud Core Wireless shines best here.
Surround sound matters more than ultra premium build quality. At this price, plastics replace metal in places. But the audio itself remains highly immersive.
Wires and cables frustrate you. The wireless design cuts out cord clutter completely. Just enjoy pure, low latency audio freedom.
Don‘t Buy It If…
You primarily game on Xbox consoles. Lack of Xbox support severely limits recommendations for Microsoft gamers.
EQ customization and software matter. Features like NGENUITY software or EQ adjustment are absent here. It‘s plug and play only.
You demand 7.1 surround capabilities. The virtual DTS spatial audio impresses, but true multi-channel surround is missing.
So for PC and PlayStation focused gamers who want wireless freedom, surround sound and strong battery life without breaking the bank – the HyperX Cloud Core Wireless earn an enthusiastic recommendation. Just know its limits before buying!