HyperX Cloud Core vs Cloud II
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Quick Summary
Cloud Core Variants
Similarities and Differences
Performance
Verdict
Quick Summary
The HyperX Cloud Core and Cloud II are both wired, closed back headsets with the same drivers and similar builds. The Cloud II is slightly larger, has softer padding, and it comes with replacement ear cushions and a carrying bag.
Cloud Core Variants
There are multiple versions of the Cloud Core.
I bought mine in May of 2022 from Amazon (both shipped and sold by Amazon). My device came with the same non-detachable 3.5 mm cable as the Cloud II and the same 7.1 Virtual Surround USB sound card.
However, there’s another version that has a 2-year DTS Headphone:X license and comes with a splitter instead of the USB sound card. How do you know which version you’ll get? If you’re in a physical store you can just look at the box, but online who knows?
This is the version I did not get…
I have no idea when they made this switch or how to ensure that you get the correct model online, but I’ll be reviewing the one that comes with the USB sound card because that’s the version I got when I bought it.
Similarities and Differences
Similarities
Here are the key attributes that the Cloud Core and Cloud II have in common.
Designed for PS4 and PC. A firmware update is needed for PS4/PS5 USB use.
53 mm drivers. The sound is identical in my testing.
Sturdy, adjustable aluminum frame.
Detachable microphone. Same sound quality.
Non-detachable 3.5 mm cable. 42 inches long.
7.1 Virtual Surround USB sound card. Controls on it include system volume, mic volume, mic mute, and 7.1 virtual surround effect. Total wire length with the 3.5 mm cable is 127 inches.
Fake leather padding on the ear cups and headband.
Differences
The Cloud Core seems to be based on the original HyperX Cloud, so there are a few physical differences between it and the Cloud II. Also, there are less accessories in the box of the Cloud Core. For reference, this is a box of the HyperX Cloud in my local Best Buy:
The Cloud Core’s headband is slightly shorter than the Cloud II’s. That makes it fit tighter, so if you have a larger head or if you are going to be using the device with a hat, I’d get the Cloud II instead.
The padding on the Cloud Core has less give than the Cloud II. This is a subtle difference as both devices are very comfortable. But the ear cushions on the Cloud Core hold their shape a bit more. The memory foam inside the Cloud II is a bit softer. The same goes for the headband padding.
The top of the Cloud II’s headband has stitching and there is more texture to it. This is mostly aesthetic.
The Cloud Core only includes the headset and USB dongle in the box. The Cloud II also has backup velour ear cushions and a carrying bag.
Overall, these differences are minor. I give the Cloud Core an A in comfort and build while the Cloud II gets an A+. Some find the faux leather to get too hot, so the soft velour will be a welcome backup.
Cloud Core unboxed.
Cloud II with additional ear cushions and carrying bag.
Performance
In terms of both headphone audio quality and microphone audio quality, you won’t find any differences here.
Black Ops - Cold War with the Cloud Core.
The frequency response of these headsets emphasizes the upper midrange and treble. They both get much louder than the average headset. Detail and clarity is better than most for the sub-$100 range, but you’ll get a more nuanced sound in something like the Sony MDR-7506.
The 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound effect is a tinny, echoey mess on both sound cards, but that’s pretty par for the course for that type of gimmick.
If you’re not into bass, and you just want something tuned for FPS performance, both the Cloud Core and Cloud II are two of the best options on the market. However, if you like a more balanced sound with some bass to fill things out, I’d recommend the Astro A40 or the Drop + EPOS PC38X instead.
The microphone audio quality on both of these headsets is pretty terrible when using the USB sound card. With a splitter (not included with my purchases), the mics sound much clearer. Still, the volume level is quite low.
Verdict
I have to recommend the Cloud II over the Cloud Core, because of the former’s larger headband and its backup velour ear cushions.
Everything else is functionally the same though, so if you’re on a tight budget and you can find the Cloud Core for under $50, I’d snag it. It crushes any headset at that price range. There are also wireless versions of both of these devices.
Product Listings
HyperX Cloud II: https://amzn.to/3xvVKN0
HyperX Cloud Core: https://amzn.to/39cT53F
