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HyperX Cloud Earbuds Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£35
Avg. price in US: ~$40
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

HyperX Cloud Earbuds review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

4.6

Poor

3.5

Poor

8.9

Excellent

2.1
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
2.1
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
10
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
2.7
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
0.0
Companion app
5.0
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

Verdict

The HyperX Cloud Earbuds are wired in-ear gaming headphones featuring 14mm dynamic drivers with neodymium magnets, a standard 20Hz–20,000Hz frequency response, and an impedance of 65 Ohms. Designed primarily for handheld gaming on platforms like the Nintendo Switch and mobile devices, they utilize a 1.2m tangle-free flat cable with a low-profile 90-degree angled 3.5mm plug and an in-line omnidirectional electret condenser microphone. Main pros include their lightweight 19g build, signature comfort provided by three sizes of patented silicone ear tips, and the inclusion of a convenient hardshell carrying case. However, notable cons include a lack of dedicated volume or mute controls on the in-line remote, poor passive noise isolation due to the ear tip design, and a sound profile that some users find lacking in low-end bass depth for music.

Technical Specifications of HyperX Cloud Earbuds

Overall score

4.6

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

2.2

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Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

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Calls & Controls

4.8

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Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

?

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Connectivity

6.2

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Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Features

4.1

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Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

1.0

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Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

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Design

8.3

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

HyperX

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

in-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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HyperX Cloud Earbuds vs the average headphone

Why is HyperX Cloud Earbuds better than the average headphone?

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91.3% lower weight
HyperX Cloud Earbuds is lighter than the average headphone (19 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <150 g
HyperX Cloud Earbuds is lighter than the average headphone (19 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.19 g vs 218 g
14 dB/mW higher sensitivity
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (116 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (116 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.116 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
Direct 3.5 mm plug
HyperX Cloud Earbuds includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones end in a built-in 3.5 mm male plug instead of relying on a separate detachable cable.
When it matters: When direct wired compatibility with older devices or adapters matters.
Importance: MEDIUM
HyperX Cloud Earbuds includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
HyperX Cloud Earbuds includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
What it is: Controls available on in-line remote of wired cable
When it matters: When your wired setup depends on cable-mounted buttons or call controls.
Importance: LOW
HyperX Cloud Earbuds includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Quick mic mute
HyperX Cloud Earbuds includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
What it is: Ability to mute microphone during calls
When it matters: When you need to silence the mic quickly during meetings or multiplayer games.
Importance: LOW
HyperX Cloud Earbuds includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
2.57x cheaper
HyperX Cloud Earbuds is cheaper than the average headphone (£35 vs £90).
HyperX Cloud Earbuds is cheaper than the average headphone (£35 vs £90).£35 vs £90
10.9% higher user score
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has a higher user score than the average headphone (8.88 vs 8.000).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has a higher user score than the average headphone (8.88 vs 8.000).8.88 vs 8
2.15x more popular
HyperX Cloud Earbuds is more popular than the average headphone (10.00 vs 4.646).
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
HyperX Cloud Earbuds is more popular than the average headphone (10.00 vs 4.646).10 vs 4.65
91.3% lower weight
HyperX Cloud Earbuds is lighter than the average headphone (19 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
14 dB/mW higher sensitivity
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (116 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
HyperX Cloud Earbuds includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
HyperX Cloud Earbuds includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Quick mic mute
HyperX Cloud Earbuds includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.

Calls & Controls

Why is HyperX Cloud Earbuds worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
No passive noise reduction
HyperX Cloud Earbuds does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
26 mm smaller driver size
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has smaller driver size than the average headphone (14 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
1.7 % higher distortion
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (2 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
No passive noise reduction
HyperX Cloud Earbuds does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones reduce outside noise through physical sealing, fit, and materials rather than active electronics.
When it matters: When you want better isolation from fit and seal alone, even with ANC turned off or not available.
Importance: MEDIUM
HyperX Cloud Earbuds does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
26 mm smaller driver size
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has smaller driver size than the average headphone (14 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.
Importance: MEDIUM
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has smaller driver size than the average headphone (14 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.14 mm vs 40 mm
1.7 % higher distortion
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (2 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <=1%
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (2 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.2 % vs 0.3 %
Fixed cable
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: MEDIUM
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.20 Hz vs 18 Hz
8.5% worse value for money
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.21 vs 6.736).
What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.
When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
HyperX Cloud Earbuds has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.21 vs 6.736).6.21 vs 6.74

Graphic comparison of HyperX Cloud Earbuds and

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about HyperX Cloud Earbuds?

Exceptional comfort for many users, featuring a lightweight design and soft silicone ear tips that sit over the ear cavity rather than deep inside.
Balanced and clear audio profile specifically tuned for gaming, which highlights in-game cues like footsteps and dialogue.
High-quality hard-shell carrying case included, providing excellent portability and protection.
Tangle-resistant flat cable design that is well-suited for mobile and handheld gaming.
Good compatibility with devices using a 3.5mm jack, such as the Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and console controllers.
Low latency performance due to the reliable wired analog connection.

What customers dislike about HyperX Cloud Earbuds?

Noticeable lack of deep or 'thumping' bass, which may disappoint users looking for a more cinematic or music-focused audio experience.
Poor passive noise isolation because the earbuds do not form a deep seal in the ear canal, allowing significant ambient noise to leak in.
Missing in-line volume controls on the standard model, forcing users to adjust volume directly on their device.
A short cable length (approximately 4 feet) that can be inconvenient for desktop PC users without a front-panel jack or extension.
Microphone can be sensitive to background noise and may sound slightly muffled or quiet in certain environments.
Unique proprietary ear tip design means standard third-party replacements are difficult to find.

Expert reviews

audiostance.com

12/10/2020

HyperX Cloud Earbuds Review • (an honest review!) - Audiostance

The HyperX Cloud Earbuds Review by Audiostance highlights them as an eye-catching, ultra-lightweight (0.67 ounces) entry-level option tailored for Nintendo Switch and mobile gamers seeking portabiliy and comfort over bulky headsets. Major pros include an immersive, well-balanced sound signature utilizing 14mm dynamic drivers that excel at clean mids, clear vocals, and directional...Read more

wepc.com

15/04/2020

HyperX Cloud Gaming Earbuds Review - WePC

The HyperX Cloud Gaming Earbuds are a lightweight, budget-friendly audio option primarily designed for mobile and console gaming rather than serious PC setups. Visually, they feature a stylish red and black color scheme with angled, grey silicone ear tips available in three different sizes to ensure a secure fit. Performance-wise, the 14mm dynamic drivers deliver a bass-heavy sound...Read more

gbatemp.net

08/12/2018

HyperX Cloud Earbuds Review (Hardware) - GBAtemp

The GBAtemp review identifies the HyperX Cloud EarbudsGo as a comfortable, wired, no-frills option ideal for handheld gaming, offering balanced sound across highs, lows, and treble. Key advantages include high-fidelity audio without latency, excellent comfort for extended use, and a portable, lightweight design suitable for gaming on the go. However, the earbuds fall short of the...Read more

firstpost.com

23/10/2019

HyperX Cloud Earbuds Review: Comfortable design with good audio quality

The HyperX Cloud Earbuds are designed specifically for mobile gamers, featuring a bright and warm sound signature that pushes up mids and slightly enhances lows to make in-game dialogue and footsteps highly legible. They break away from traditional deep-insertion earphone designs, instead sitting snugly over the ear cavity to prevent uncomfortable vacuum pressure during long...Read more

headphonesty.com

13/05/2022

Gaming Review: HyperX Cloud Earbuds – A Sink or Swim in the...

The Headphonesty review characterizes the HyperX Cloud Earbuds as a comfortable, budget-friendly option for mobile gamers, highlighting their lightweight design, 14mm drivers, and practical, tangle-free cable design. However, the review notes significant drawbacks, including a lack of passive noise isolation, subpar microphone quality for chat, and a hollow sound profile, making...Read more

headphonereview.com

26/10/2018

HyperX Cloud Earbuds in-ear wired headphones review

The HyperX Cloud Earbuds are $50 wired in-ear headphones explicitly optimized for on-the-go gamers utilizing mobile devices or the Nintendo Switch. A major highlight of this review is their exceptional comfort; the uniquely shaped silicone ear tips sit gently in the ear, providing a secure fit that remains comfortable even during hours of continuous use. Additionally, the review...Read more

tomsguide.com

19/10/2018

HyperX Cloud Earbuds Review: Solid Sound for Switch Owners

The Tom's Guide review finds the $50 HyperX Cloud Earbuds to be a portable, robust-sounding option ideal for Nintendo Switch users, praising their balanced audio, reliable inline microphone, and small form factor. However, the review notes significant design flaws, including an insecure fit in the ear canal and awkwardly placed, high-mounted media controls on the cord.

techradar.com

22/03/2019

HyperX Cloud Earbuds review - TechRadar

The HyperX Cloud Earbuds are wired, in-ear gaming headphones featuring a distinctive flat red cable, a 90-degree 3.5mm jack, and an oval, Apple EarPod-like design. Priced at Rs 5,999, they are specifically engineered for mobile and Nintendo Switch gamers who prioritize low-latency audio without relying on battery life. While the earbuds deliver exceptionally clean, crisp, and...Read more

ign.com

28/03/2022

HyperX Cloud Gaming Earbuds Review - IGN

The HyperX Cloud Gaming Earbuds ($49.99 MSRP) are designed specifically as a portable audio solution for the Nintendo Switch, featuring a distinct bright red design with a tangle-free flat cable and a 90-degree angled connector. A major standout feature is the unique wedge-shaped silicone ear tips that include small handles to anchor the buds securely against the ear's antihelix....Read more

mkaugaming.com

01/12/2018

HyperX Cloud Earbuds Review - MKAU Gaming

The MKAU Gaming review positions the HyperX Cloud Earbuds as a superior, portable audio solution for handheld gaming, featuring a comfortable design, 14mm drivers, and impressive bass for $79 AU. While offering a major upgrade over stock earbuds, the review notes they are specialized for mobile use rather than replacing full-sized, high-end studio headsets.

in.ign.com

06/05/2019

HyperX Cloud Earbuds Review - IGN India

The HyperX Cloud Earbuds Review on IGN India evaluates the company's first wired in-ear headphones designed primarily for handheld and mobile gaming platforms like the Nintendo Switch. On the positive side, reviewer Rishabh Ullal praises the hardware's overall ergonomics and build quality. The 4-foot rubberized red cable is reliably tangle-free, and its low-profile, 90-degree angled...Read more

gametainment.net

11/02/2021

Review: HyperX Cloud Earbuds Gaming Headphones

The HyperX Cloud Earbuds are designed for comfort and mobility, featuring soft, ergonomic silicone ear tips and a practical 90-degree 3.5mm plug ideal for handheld gaming on devices like the Nintendo Switch. Key advantages include a lightweight design, a tangle-free flat cable, and a included carrying case, offering a comfortable, loose fit for extended sessions. However, the review...Read more

rpp.pe

18/06/2019

HyperX Cloud Earbuds: Quality sound anywhere

The HyperX Cloud Earbuds are designed specifically for mobile and Nintendo Switch gamers seeking a high-quality audio experience on the go. The earbuds feature a unique, large design with cone-shaped gel ear tips that create a safer, more comfortable distance from the eardrum to prevent ear fatigue and damage. They come equipped with a durable, thick, flat red-and-black cable that...Read more

startupitalia.eu

10/07/2021

HyperX Cloud Earbuds review: The ideal headphones for the Switch at the beach

The HyperX Cloud Earbuds, reviewed by StartupItalia as ideal for Nintendo Switch, offer rich audio, enhanced detail compared to built-in speakers, and customizable comfort with multiple silicone tip sizes, making them excellent for portable, high-volume gaming. However, potential drawbacks include reduced comfort during extended gaming sessions and a preference for over-ear...Read more

nextgentech.it

08/06/2021

Kingston HyperX Cloud Earbuds - Review - NextGenTech.it

The Kingston HyperX Cloud Earbuds are a classic, wired in-ear gaming headset that stands out for its high-quality construction, excellent audio performance, and attention to detail. Weighing just 19 grams, these earbuds are designed for universal compatibility across all gaming platforms via a standard 3.5mm angled audio jack, completely eliminating battery anxiety and the need for...Read more

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