HyperX Cloud Stinger Gaming Headset Review

Headsets, like most peripherals, are very subjective.  Both looks and fit make reviews more opinion based than products we can accurately benchmark, at least without some very expensive audio equipment. I tested the Cloud Stinger headset with my onboard sound from a MSI X99A Gaming 7 motherboard, a Fiio X1 music player and with the SilverStone Ensemble Series EB03 and EB01-E Audio Amp DAC set.  The Cloud Stinger requires no additional software or driver.  Just plug it into your favorite headphone out!

My initial testing was hooked directly to my PC via the MSI X99A Gaming 7.  The Gaming 7 uses the very solid Sound Blaster Cinema 2 and a dedicated headphone amplifier.  I fired up Battlefield One and went to work.  I found the audio quality much crisper than expected with the solid bass rumble of the tanks offset nicely by the crisp staccato of small arms fire. I have to admit that once I leveled out the volume the surround sound was crisp and predictable.  I tested with some of my favorite tracks and found the range acceptable if slightly bass heavy.  Classical, EDM and acoustic classics were comfortable with a range that is more than adequate for gaming headphones.

Next I moved over to one of my favorite travel toys the Fiio X1.  It may be getting a bit long in the tooth but I still enjoy lossless tracks through its Professional quality Texas Instrument PCM5142 DAC and Intersil ISL28291 OP amp.  The directional 50mm drivers go a long way to make up for the lack of range I am used to from my usual Sennheiser HD6xx headset.  The Cloud Stinger handles favorites like Pink Floyd and some of my other FLAC recordings confidently and will be a noticeable step up from the cheap setups commonly shipped with your devices.

Finally I fired up my SilverStone Ensemble Series EB03 and EB01-E Audio Amp DAC set for some sound quality/range testing.  I have to admit that if you have an AMP/DAC you are probably not the target audience for the Cloud Stinger headset but they sounded good.  I often find budget friendly headphones show glaring weak spots when hooked up to higher end gear but the Cloud Stingers covered most of the advertised range without distortion. Higher volumes tended to feel strained but normal listening levels were better than expected.

For Surround sound I fired up the SBX Pro Studio demo and of course played some Battlefield One.  I am always a bit disappointed at the loss of directional positioning when switching to a stereo headset but like the Cloud Revolvers the virtual drivers performed strongly making it easy to hear and pinpoint gunshots and approaching footsteps.  This is where the Cloud Stingers excel and the gaming stage was always confidently heard.  Only a back to back test with the Sennheiser sets made the difference in sound stage noticeable. Not bad for a headset costing one quarter less!

Once again HyperX has done a great job with the Cloud Stinger gaming headset.  The combination of memory foam and the swiveling closed design makes the Stingers the most comfortable headset I have experienced in this price point.  The subdued look helps make the plastic construction a non-issue with no gaudy lights.  It is also a nice bonus to see support for everything from your PC to your consoles and everything mobile right out of the box.  I might hesitate to recommend for true mobile users thanks to the fixed microphone but it will work for those looking for a one headset solution.

Sound quality was a pleasant surprise! It may not rival my more expensive setups but it easily bests the entry level stuff my kids gravitate towards with its solid gaming sound stage. Following the recent trend the sound stage offers more bass than I prefer but mids and highs are well balanced and clear.  HyperX delivers a comfortable performer in a stereo headset that defies its price point.  If you need surround sound you will need to trick yourself with 3rd party software or look to HyperX’s Cloud II. 

Overall I would recommend the HyperX Cloud Stinger Gaming headset to anyone looking for their first gaming headset or working with a limited budget.  This headset confidently bests everything at the price point and feels great doing it.

Comfortable memory foam ear cups
Directional drivers
Great gaming separation
Massive compatibility

Plastic construction
Microphone could be better
Distorts at high end of range