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This is a buyer's guide compiled from manufacturer specifications and published reviews. GameRath did not test this product.
The HyperX Cloud II is a wired gaming headset with an aluminum frame and a USB audio control box that adds virtual 7.1 surround. It has been around since the Kingston era, so most of the reviews below are several years old.
Key specs
- Drivers: 53mm dynamic with neodymium magnets (HP listing, Kingston datasheet)
- Frequency response: 10Hz to 23kHz on HP's current listing; the older Kingston datasheet lists 15Hz to 25kHz, so check the retailer page for your unit
- Weight: 0.7 lb on HP's listing; Kingston's datasheet gives 320g with microphone and cable
- Build: aluminum frame, memory foam with leatherette ear cushions (HP)
- Connection: 3.5mm 4-pole jack plus a USB 2.0 audio control box with virtual 7.1 surround; cable length listed as 3.28 feet (HP)
- Microphone: detachable, noise-cancelling electret condenser (HP); Kingston lists a cardioid pattern and a 150mm boom
- Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch and mobile devices (HP)
- Warranty: two years (HP, Kingston)
What published reviews found
GamesRadar's November 2020 review praised the design and called the headset lightweight and comfortable. It found the mids and highs strong, but described the bass as muddy. The same review said the virtual 7.1 mode gave vague directional audio rather than precise positioning, which is a useful caution if you play competitive shooters.
On the ear pads, GamesRadar said the included velour set felt plush, while the leatherette pads stayed cooler but might press uncomfortably on some heads. The headset offers both. GamesRadar called the microphone decent and noise-cancelling, but not the headset's standout feature.
RTINGS compared the Cloud II against two other HyperX models. Against the Cloud Stinger 2, it found the Cloud II better built and more premium-feeling, with a microphone that handled noise better and an in-line remote that controls mic and headphone volume separately. Against the newer Cloud III, RTINGS said the Cloud II offers more bass in its default sound and somewhat lower latency over USB, plus a better noise-handling mic and a carrying pouch.
Older coverage from the Kingston era, including a May 2015 review on Unbox.ph, described a sturdy metal frame under the headband and a USB accessory that doubles as a control hub and 7.1 processor.
Price and availability
GamesRadar listed a price range of $90 to $109 in November 2020. HP's current product page did not display a usable price, and we could not confirm a launch MSRP, so we are not quoting one. Street prices vary by retailer and by color, so check the current listing and our gaming headset deals page. HP lists the headset as available, though it notes that availability may change.
Who it's for
The Cloud II fits desk-bound players who want a wired headset with a sturdy build, a respectable microphone and compatibility across PC, consoles and phones. The swappable ear pads are a plus if leatherette runs warm for you.
Skip it if you want wireless freedom, or if you play competitive games and want precise positional audio from the virtual 7.1 mode. For wireless, look at the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless, which trades the wired connection for a very long battery rating. For another wired option with a detachable mic, the Razer BlackShark V2 is worth a look.
Bottom line
The Cloud II earns its long run on build quality, a usable microphone and broad platform support, according to the sources we read. Muddy bass and a vague 7.1 mode are the recurring complaints, and the research we found is dated. It is a reasonable wired pick if you can find it at a fair price, though newer HyperX models now exist.
Still choosing a headset? Our Best Gaming Hardware in 2026 hub places the HyperX Cloud II next to the other four headset guides and explains how to weigh comfort, wireless type and price. Our gaming headset buying guide covers microphone, comfort and wireless trade-offs.
Sources: HP - HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset product page, Kingston - HyperX Cloud II datasheet (KHX-HSCP), GamesRadar - HyperX Cloud II review, RTINGS - HyperX Cloud 2/Cloud II vs Cloud Stinger 2, RTINGS - HyperX Cloud 2/Cloud II vs Cloud III, Unbox.ph - Kingston HyperX Cloud II review
Pros
- Aluminum frame that RTINGS found better built than the Cloud Stinger 2
- Detachable noise-cancelling mic that RTINGS said handles noise better than the Stinger 2's
- Works with PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch and mobile, per HP's listing
- Offers swappable leatherette and velour ear pads, per GamesRadar
Cons
- GamesRadar found the bass muddy and the virtual 7.1 mode vague for directional audio
- Leatherette pads may press uncomfortably for some, per GamesRadar
- Wired only, with a USB control box adding a second inline connector
- Most published coverage is several years old
