HyperX has established itself as the gamers’ go-to option, doing almost everything from headsets to game controllers to peripherals. When looking for gaming headsets, the two most popular ones are the HyperX Cloud Alpha and the HyperX Cloud II.
The Cloud Alpha and Cloud II are headsets with adjustable headbands with an aluminum frame designed to withstand the hardships of daily gaming. Cloud Alpha and Cloud II also come in wired and wireless options.
They both have over-ear memory foam and leatherette ear cushions, which you can change for velour ear pads. However, you may have to buy these ear pads through Amazon or HyperX accessories.
So, which one is better for your gaming needs? Let’s break down both headsets to give you a full comparison.
HyperX Cloud Alpha vs. Cloud II: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Here’s a table with a side-by-side comparison of these headphones, both in their wired and wireless versions.
| Cloud Alpha Wired | Cloud II Wired | Cloud Alpha Wireless | Cloud II Wireless | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audio/Sound | Stereo | 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound & Stereo | DTS Spatial 3D Audio | DTS Spatial 3D Audio |
| Battery Life | – | – | 300 hrs | 30 hrs |
| Compatibility | PC, PS4 & PS4 Pro, Xbox One & Xbox One S, Mac, Mobile, Nintendo Switch, VR | PC, Mac, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Mobile | PC, PS4 & PS4 Pro, Xbox One & Xbox One S, Mac, Mobile, Nintendo Switch, VR | With USB adapter: PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch |
| Connection | Wired 3.5 mm (4-pole CTIA) detachable | Wired 3.5 mm (4-pole CTIA) detachable | Wireless 2.4GHz | Wireless 2.4GHz |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired | Wired | RF, USB | VGA |
| Driver Size | 50 mm Dual Chamber | 53 mm | 50 mm Dual Chamber | 53 mm |
| Ear Cushion Material | Memory Foam + Leatherette | Memory Foam + Leatherette | Memory Foam + Leatherette | Memory Foam + Leatherette |
| Frequency Response | 15 Hz-25,000H | 15 Hz-25,000H | 15 Hz-25,000H | 15 Hz-25,000H |
| Noise Cancellation Mic | Detachable | Detachable | Detachable w/mute LED | Detachable w/mute LED |
| Port | 3.5 mm | USB & 3.5 mm | – | – |
| Price | $99.99 | $99.99 | $169.99 | $149.99 |
HyperX Cloud Alpha vs. Cloud II: What’s the Difference?
There are some noticeable differences and characteristics between the Cloud Alpha and the Cloud II. Professional and casual gamers alike should consider these before buying either of these headphones.
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Sound/Audio
One of those differences is the sound. The Cloud II Wired offers a 7.1 Surround Sound, but depending on your device, it may change to stereo. On the other hand, the Cloud Alpha Wired offers Stereo Sound, but with a special USB adapter, you can have Surround Sound. Cloud Alpha and Cloud II Wireless have DTS: X Spatial 3D Audio.
Microphone and Controls
These gaming headsets have a detachable noise-cancellation microphone, making them an excellent option for gaming or just listening to music or videos. The quality is above average, so it will serve you well for any purpose, from video calls to streaming.
The headsets’ audio controls are on the cable, giving you access to volume control and mic muting. They are also compatible with most playing systems (PC, PS4, Xbox One, Mac, mobile, Nintendo Switch).
Audio Drivers
They also have different audio drivers; the Cloud II has a 53 mm driver, while the Cloud Alpha has a 50 mm Dual Chamber. The Dual Chamber drivers, made with two separate chambers, one for bass and the other for mids and highs, provide more audio distinction and produce clarity by reducing distortion.
The Cloud II, with its 7.1 Surround Sound and 53 mm drivers, is made to create an immersive gaming experience by having crystal-clear low, mid, and high tones with enhanced bass.
Wireless Characteristics
Both wireless headsets have different battery life; Cloud Alpha has up to 300 hours, whereas Cloud II has only 30 hours. You can get weeks of gaming with a single charge with the Cloud Alpha.
While the Cloud Alpha wireless has onboard audio and mic control, the Cloud II has mic monitoring, which keeps you from getting too loud over the speaker and keeps speech clear and concise.
Cable Length and Type
It might seem silly, but sometimes size does matter. That is why it’s essential to consider the length of the cables between these two headsets.
The Cloud Alpha has a built-in cable 1.3 meters long and a PC extension cable 2 meters long. The Cloud II has a 1-meter headset cable and a 2 meters long USB Audio Control Mixer Cable.
HyperX Cloud Alpha vs. Cloud II: 9 Must-Know Facts
- The Cloud Alpha and Cloud II both include lithium polymer batteries.
- To correctly use the Cloud Alpha’s mic to its full potential, downloading the HyperX NGENUITY software is highly recommended.
- Although the Cloud Alpha is stereo, buying the HyperX accessory USB Dolby 7.1 Adapter allows you to experience Virtual Surround Sound and USB Connectivity.
- The Cloud Alpha can use HyperX Cloud 2 USB audio controller.
- The ear cup cushions of the Cloud Alpha and Cloud II are slightly different in size and fitment, so you won’t be able to interchange them.
- You can buy velour ear pads and accessories for either headset at here or through Amazon here.
- There has yet to be an airplane adapter for the Cloud Alpha.
- HyperX Cloud Alpha is certified by TeamSpeak and Discord and is also compatible with Skype, Ventrilo, Mumble, and other VOIP programs.
- Cloud Alpha and Cloud II are compatible with PC, Mac, PS4, PS5, mobile, Xbox One, and Xbox One S, but each headset has its quirks that you should review before buying.
Where to Buy
The wired and wireless versions of the Cloud Alpha and Cloud II are available on Amazon.
- Headphones fit type:Over-Ear
- [Gaming-grade wireless with long battery life]: Cut the cord and roam free with low-latency 2.4GHz Wireless connection, a range of up to 20 meters and a battery life of up to 30 hours..[Signature...
- [DTS Headphone:X Spatial Audio]: DTS Spatial Audio will help amp up your audio advantage and immersion with its precise sound localization and virtual 3D sound stage.
- [Noise-cancelling detachable mic with LED mute indicator]: The detachable noise-cancelling mic is Discord and TeamSpeak certified. It also features an LED mute indicator so that you can easily see...
- [Built-in mic monitoring]: Listen in on your own voice to keep you from getting too loud and to make sure you sound clear over voice chat.
- USB Audio Sound Card with 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound
- 53mm Drivers Neodymium Magnets
- Noise Cancelling Microphone via Inline Sound Card
- Echo Cancelling via Inline Sound Card
- 15-25kKhz Frequency Response.Interchangeable Ear Pads
HyperX Cloud Alpha vs. Cloud II: Which One is Better for You?
At the end of the day, before buying your gaming headset, there are several things you should take into account. The most important thing is your budget, which will generally determine your final decision.
The Cloud Alpha and Cloud II Wired have the same price in the HyperX store, but the latter is slightly cheaper in e-shops. The Cloud II wireless headset is more accessible than the Cloud Alpha wireless in the HyperX Store and online stores.
If you’re looking for better specs and higher performance, then the Cloud II Wired is the way to go. If you want to get rid of the cables and don’t want to be charging your headset constantly, then we recommend the Cloud Alpha Wireless.
It all depends on what you’re looking for, what you need, and your budget. Once you have those three aspects down, choosing the best headsets for you won’t be an issue.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Dean Drobot/Shutterstock.com.
Last update on 2023-11-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
