The HyperX Cloud Core and HyperX Cloud II are wired, closed-back headphones with the same drivers and designs. The Cloud II is roomier, has plusher cushioning, and includes extra ear cushions and a convenient carrying case.
Cloud Core Variants
The Cloud Core has many different iterations.
HyperX Cloud Core was purchased by me in May of 2022 through Amazon (both shipped and sold by Amazon). My gadget shares the Cloud II’s 7.1 Virtual Surround USB sound card and a non-detachable 3.5 mm wire.
But there’s also a variant that ditches the USB sound card in favor of a splitter and includes a 2-year DTS Headphone:X license. Is there a way to tell which edition you’ll receive? You can check the box in a store to see what’s inside, but you never know when shopping online.
I’ll evaluate the version that includes the USB sound card since that’s the one I purchased, but I have no clue when or how they switched over to this configuration.
Similarities and Differences
Similarities
Here are the most prominent characteristics shared by HyperX Cloud Core and Cloud II.
- Built for the PS4 and PC. USB support on PS4 and PS5 consoles requires the latest firmware.
- Drivers measuring 53 millimeters in circumference. In my listening tests, I found no discernible difference in sound quality.
- Aluminum construction can be adjusted to fit any size.
- The microphone may be detached. The same high-quality audio.
- A 3.5 mm cable that cannot be separated. Inches in length: 42.
- USB sound card with 7.1 digital surround sound. It has a 7.1 simulated surround sound effect, a mute mic button, and volume control for the system. The 3.5 mm cable is 127 inches in length.
- The headband and ear cups are padded to simulate leather.
Differences
The Cloud Core looks like the original HyperX Cloud; therefore, it’s different from the Cloud II. Cloud Core has fewer frills. Here’s a HyperX Cloud box I found at Best Buy.
Cloud II’s headband is longer than Cloud Core’s. If you have a large head or wish to use the gadget beneath a hat, choose the Cloud II.
Cloud Core is firmer than Cloud II. Both aids are comfortable; therefore, the difference is negligible. Cloud Core ear cushions are more durable. Cloud II’s inside has softer memory foam. Padded headbands are similar.
Cloud II headphones include an embroidered headband. Mostly visual.
Cloud Core comes with a headset and USB dongle. Cloud II includes velour ear cushions and a storage case.
Insignificant differences. Cloud Core gets an A for comfort, while Cloud II receives an A+. Soft velour is a good backup if the faux leather becomes too heated.
Performance
The headphone and microphone audio quality is the same.
These headphones emphasize middle and treble. They’re louder than most headphones. Detail and clarity are more significant than other sub-$100 headphones, but the Sony MDR-7506 sounds more nuanced.
The 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound effect is tinny and echoey on both sound cards, but that’s to be expected.
If you don’t care about bass and simply want FPS headphones, the Cloud Core and Cloud II are excellent. If you like a more balanced sound with bass, try the Astro A40 or Drop + EPOS PC38X.
When utilizing a USB sound card, both headsets’ microphones sound horrible. Mics sound better with a splitter (not included in my orders). Low volume.
Verdict
Cloud II has a giant headband and backup velour ear cushions than Cloud Core.
If you can get the Cloud Core for around $50, I’d grab it if you’re on a limited budget. It beats all comparable headsets. Both gadgets are wireless.
