#ad This guide contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, GamerDeals may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
HyperX Cloud II vs Cloud III: Which Wired Headset Should You Buy?
Published October 21, 2026 · Updated October 21, 2026
The Cloud II has been one of the most recommended wired gaming headsets for years, and the Cloud III is HyperX's update to it. They look alike and both use memory foam and a sturdy frame, so the real differences are how they connect, the drivers, the mic and how surround sound works. Here's how to choose between them.
Quick picks
- HyperX Cloud II (wired): HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset
- HyperX Cloud III (wired): HyperX Cloud III
HyperX Cloud II (wired): HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset
Who it's for: PC and console players who want a proven, comfortable headset and like having a physical control box for volume and mic mute.
Key specs:
- Wired: 3.5mm plus a USB audio control box
- 53mm drivers
- Virtual 7.1 surround through the USB control box
- Detachable noise-cancelling mic
- Memory foam ear pads and aluminum frame
- Long track record for comfort and build
- Inline control box with volume, mic mute and surround toggle
- Works with nearly anything that has a 3.5mm jack
- USB connection is USB-A only, with no USB-C
- 7.1 surround only works over the USB control box, not 3.5mm
- Older design than the Cloud III
HyperX Cloud III (wired): HyperX Cloud III
Who it's for: Players who want the newer design, USB-C support for modern laptops and consoles, and a clearer mic.
Key specs:
- Wired: 3.5mm, USB-C and USB-A
- Angled 53mm drivers
- Spatial audio support
- Detachable 10mm mic
- Memory foam and durable frame
- Works with PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
- USB-C, USB-A and 3.5mm in the box covers almost every device
- Angled drivers and updated tuning
- Upgraded mic for voice chat and calls
- Usually costs more than the Cloud II
- Spatial audio features depend on your platform and connection
- No inline control box like the Cloud II's
Verdict
Buy the Cloud III if you're buying new today and use a USB-C laptop, a PS5 or a mix of devices; the extra connections and better mic are worth it. Buy the Cloud II if it's noticeably cheaper when you check, you mainly play on a PC with USB-A, or you like the inline control box. Both are wired, so if you want no cable at all, look at HyperX's wireless Cloud III S instead.
Buying tips
- Check both prices on Amazon before deciding. When they're close, the Cloud III is the better buy.
- Plugged into a controller's 3.5mm jack, both work as simple stereo headsets; the USB extras only apply over USB.
- If your ears get warm, both use leatherette-covered memory foam, so take short breaks on long sessions.