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HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset Review

08/10/2018 By Hakan Can

It’s been nearly a year since its introduction at Gamescon and people are still talking about the HyperX Cloud Alpha gaming headset. Released in September 2017, the Cloud Alpha is a cross-platform headset compatible with the big three: Xbox, PS4, and PC. Is this HyperX headset an improvement over its earlier Cloud models? More importantly, how does it hold up to our testing? Without further delay, let’s take a closer look in this HyperX Cloud Alpha gaming headset review.

Key Features

• Highly comfortable fit
• Attractive black/red matte finish
• 50mm drivers, dual chamber design

• Stereo sound
• TeamSpeak and Discord Certified
• List price of $99

Read: HyperX Cloud Revolver Headset Review

HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset Review

Per the Press Release

According to Tyler Needles, global audio business manager at HyperX, “The new HyperX Cloud Alpha is the first gaming headset to include our dual chamber technology to deliver unrivaled sound quality. Designed and tested in the HyperX labs, Cloud Alpha delivers the best possible audio performance, comfort, and build quality for the ultimate competitive advantage and will be used by top eSports pros globally.”

We’re fans of the brand so when the opportunity to review the gaming headset arose, we accepted.

Design, Features, and Fit

Except for its slightly larger size and some design tweaks, the Cloud Alpha headset looks very similar to its sibling, the Cloud II.

This newer gaming headset comes in two color options: a black matte finish with either gold or red accents. The gold and red aren’t that bright but somewhat muted.

The ear cups pivot up and down to fit a variety of head shapes. They don’t swivel as this motion is performed with the aluminum frame. Unfortunately, when you twist the frame, you hear an unpleasant crinkling sound.

The headband is rather thick and has the same type of memory foam which incorporates the ear cups. The gold or red stitching is well done with no thread out of place on the received sample.

Next up is the flexible noise-canceling microphone. There’s no right way to say this, so we’ll just come out and say the mic is kinda cheap. More on the mic in the next section.

Wrapping up the design are two braided cords. One has an inline controller for volume and mute, the other plugs into a computer.

Read: HyperX Cloud II Headset Review

Cloud Alpha Headset Specifications

• Ear coupling: Circumaural, closed back
• Frequency range: 13 Hz – 27 kHz
• Cable lengths: 1.3 & 2 Meters
• Driver diameter: 50 mm w/neodymium magnets
• Impedance: 65 Ω
• Sound Pressure Level: 98 dB/mW at 1 kHz
• Weight: 298 Grams

• Driver type: Custom dynamic
• Microphone frequency range: 50 Hz – 18 kHz
• Microphone element: Electret condenser
• Microphone sensitivity: -43 db
• Polar pattern: Noise-cancelling
• Weight w/mic & cable: 336 Grams

Read: Gaming: HyperX Alloy Elite Keyboard Review

Cloud Alpha Headset – Impressions and Performance

The Cloud Alpha is one amazingly comfortable headset. Yet on the flip side, the microphone feels a bit cheap. Being a plug-in type, it has the feel of an airline microphone. Additionally, the actual microphone control is less than par as well. It’s a bit hard to locate all of the individual spin dials, and the microphone control is a bit ambiguous. For a high-tier headset, these cheap elements lead to a level of disappointment. Plus the set up was a pain too.

When playing YouTube videos, the audio was clear with good sound quality. I found that the headset worked perfectly fine, thus no downside here.

During gameplay of Rainbow Six Siege, the gaming headset excelled, great at finding roamers. I found two or three characters running around, and was able to locate them accurately . However, I noticed a significant problem with the mic as my teammates could not hear. The set up for the microphone is incredibly frustrating with plenty of tweaking taking place. Even after adjustment, it still was hard to use.

Fortnite, Attila Total War, Empire at War were a few of the other games I tried out with the HyperX headset.

The headset performed well during all of these games with zero difficulties. Overall it’s fantastic in its function and has terrific stereo sound, which in turn led to plenty of quality gameplay.

Read: Gaming: HyperX Cloud Stinger Headset Review

Final Thoughts

Cloud Alpha Headset Ratings:
• Use: 7/10 – The use of the headset was adequate. It worked fine when used during the playback of music and while watching videos on YouTube. However, the poorly-designed microphone and the “multi part headset” idea was a horrible design choice that led to a lot of glitchy parts. It would have been wiser decision to have designed towards making the headset either PC or gaming console-specific rather than trying to make every player happy. Seeing as the microphone worked only once during a voice call, it’s receiving a low rating.

• Appearance: 7/10 – The aluminum back structure of the headset is decent while the cheap and fluffy microphone gave the headset a low tier look. The addition of a small and terrible looking volume/microphone control help emphasize this lesser look.

• Gaming: 8.5/10 – In solo player mode, the headset was amazing, however during team play, it was not. It worked only once in all team sessions, so it’s not receiving a higher score. I need a fully functional microphone.

• Comfort: 9/10 – It feels fantastic. It fit comfortably and was reasonably easy to adjust. I liked the leatherette surrounding the top. This allowed for comfortable, long gaming sessions.

Overall Rating: 7.8 out of 10

Read: HyperX Cloud Revolver Headset Review

In summary, the HyperX Cloud Alpha gaming headset comes with 50 mm neodymium drivers, stereo sound, and in-line control.

The Cloud Alpha performed well in some areas like sound quality, and not so well in others like with the microphone as stated above. The multi-platform approach didn’t serve this headset well.

This gaming headset lists for $99.99. There are plenty of HyperX Cloud gaming headsets available with a variety of features, so compare away until you find the right one for you. It’s available for purchase on Amazon (see link below) for $99.99 as well as the HyperX website.

The headset supports Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC, and numerous mobile and virtual reality devices.

Within each box comes the Cloud Alpha headset, 1.3 and 2-meter cables, a detachable NC microphone, and a soft carry bag.

What do you think of this HyperX Cloud Alpha gaming headset review? Do you agree or disagree with our verdict? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

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Don’t hesitate to head over to the HyperX homepage to see their current line-up of products. The HyperX Cloud Alpha gaming headset comes with a 2-year warranty. Should you need to reach Customer Support, feel free to call one of these two numbers: 714-435-2639 or 800-435-0640 or check out their Support page.

FTC Disclosure: HyperX provided Beantown LLC with one (1) Cloud Alpha gaming headset sample for review purposes. Our writers opinions are 100% their own and are not paid product ambassadors.

Read: Gaming: HyperX Cloud Stinger Headset Review

Gaming: HyperX Alloy Elite Keyboard Review

08/15/2017 By Hakan Can

August 21st is a big day for the folks at HyperX. It’s on this day they introduce not one, but two new mechanical gaming keyboards to the consumer market. Following the successful launches of the Alloy FPS keyboard and Pulsefire FPS mouse, HyperX is set to launch a second Alloy FPS model, this time tenkeyless, as well as their Alloy Elite. We’ve spent the past couple of weeks playing with their top-of-the-line board. How does the Elite stack up against its high-end gaming keyboard competition? Without further delay, let’s take a close and detailed look in this HyperX Alloy Elite keyboard review.

Key Features of the Alloy Elite Keyboard

Red LED illuminated backlighting and light bar
Six lighting effects
Cherry MX Blue, Brown, or Red switches
Anti-ghosting functionality
N-Key rollover
Media controls
USB 2.0 pass-through

Read: Gaming: HyperX Alloy FPS Keyboard Review

Per Marcus Hermann, Senior Business Manager at HyperX, “Further raising the bar for personalization and comfort, HyperX is excited to reveal the new Alloy Elite Keyboard with Cherry MX Mechanical switches, detachable palm rest and custom lighting features. Ensuring that gamers connect and play immediately, keyboard customization options can be accessed without the assistance of software via keyboard functions.”

HyperX Alloy Elite Keyboard Review

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First Impressions

Very nicely packaged with excellent use of wording and imagery.
Keyboard has a sleek, steely, modern, top-mounted look.
Cable is braided and centered; two USB desktop connections and a USB 2.0 pass through.
The red LED lighting and light bar look great. They illuminate nicely, especially in a dark setting.
There’s a well-balanced layout with lighting effects on the left and audio controls on the right.
Partially textured palm rest feels great and holds on tight.

Specifications

Specs Property of HyperX

Read: Gaming: HyperX Pulsefire FPS Mouse Review

Alloy Elite Design and Features

If there’s one thing I dislike about specifications, it’s the use of the Metric System. So for all of you in North America, here are the standard units. The keyboard measures 17.48″ x 8.93″ x 1.43″, and weighs in at 3.23 lbs.

If you’re familiar with the Alloy FPS keyboard, then consider this second keyboard release from HyperX the big brother. The Alloy Elite not only looks similar to the Alloy FPS, but it has nearly every feature of it too, plus some more of its own.

There’s the same beautiful matte black finish, top-mounted and steel frame appearance, Cherry MX switches, USB pass-through, red LED lighting, and dynamic lighting effects. What’s new is the red 18 LED bar, dedicated Game and lighting mode/effect buttons, media controls, and a detachable palm rest. The location of the braided cable is now dead-center.

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On the underside, there are two rubber foot pads and two retractable legs. Alloy Elite package contents include the keyboard, palm rest, eight platinum key caps (WASD are textured), one key cap puller, quick installation guide and warranty policy.

It has all these features for a hair under $110. This is in line with high-end mechanical gaming keyboards from other top brands. What is doesn’t have, and I’m sure others will note this, is macro recording capability and pre-configured lighting zones for different genres of games.

There were some issues with the media controls, and we’ve yet to get all four buttons to work simultaneously. Using Amazon Music and Nero MediaHome, I was unable to get the Rewind, Play/Pause, and Fast Forward buttons to work. The Pause button worked without a hitch. And the Volume Wheel worked well with all but one speaker. It wasn’t able to adjust the audio of the Libratone One Click speaker. We’ll continue to play around with the media controls and update this post accordingly.

Read: HyperX Cloud Revolver S Headset Preview

Performance Testing – Everyday Use

As a daily keyboard, this Alloy Elite with Cherry MX Red switched keys worked flawlessly. The surface of the key caps are soft and the sound they make when pressed is minimal. Conversely, if you were typing with Cherry MX Blue switches, then you know how loud they can be.

There’s no noticeable resistance between keys. I’m sure this is due to the optional change between the gaming mode and the typing mode. More keyboards should seriously have this feature–it’s incredible!

I don’t think I’ve ever loved it more; it allows one to have regular keys and then super reactive keys.

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Read: Gaming: Gamdias HERMES 7 Color Keyboard Review

Performance Testing – Gameplay

Gameplay consisted of the following games: Rainbow Six: Siege, RimWorld, and Titanfall 2.

Unlike the Tt esports MEKA PRO, I didn’t notice as much of a disruption with the F2 Key when playing Rainbow Six: Siege. Regardless, the keys are quick and responsive. I truly like the way this keyboard is designed.

With RimWorld, the keys are nice, snappy, and move quite accurately. When compared to the MEKA PRO, I enjoy and prefer the snappiness of the Alloy Elite’s keys. It feels much more organic rather than as if I were pushing super hard keys. However, RimWorld is a strategy game, so there isn’t much that’s noteworthy. It works, so that’s what matters.

On Titanfall 2, here’s where the keys shine. I found the controls were quick and snappy; it’s just what you would want from a gaming keyboard. The Alloy Elite made it easy to move around the map, and I’ve dodged more than one artillery round from a titan. Once again, the keys are quick and responsive in the gaming mode. I love the ability to switch between Gaming and Standard Mode with the use of the Game Mode button.

Read: Gaming: Tt esports MEKA PRO Keyboard Review

Pros:

The custom LED settings. These are impressive settings; one lights up all the way, one turns off LED features, one causes a wave, one causes dimmer settings, one “explosion feature” (lights up rest of the keys when one key is pressed, and one causes only the AWSD keys to be lit up. Overall six different LED options. Very much enjoyed the ability to change up the lighting features.
The threaded cable screams “Nice Keyboard” along with its decent length. The feel of the keyboard is most pleasant on the fingers, plus there’s that steel frame.
Custom gaming mode allows toggling in between Game Mode and normal typing. It’s a feature which helps when you’re typing up a letter/resume versus swinging around in Titanfall 2.
Keys during Gaming Mode are friendly and responsive. Excellent accuracy when moving around; a lot of quick tapping helped. I never had one case where I felt it was the keyboard’s fault.
The removable palm rest is a comfortable addition for those who use them. It appears to be fingerprint-proof.
No software needed to operate the keyboard. It’s Plug-n-Play.

Cons:

The keyboard is a bit larger than we would have liked, but that’s what you get when there are so many buttons and keypads.
It’s a bit heavier than most gaming keyboards, but you have to weigh that against the use of great materials of construction. Maybe it’s not so much of a Con.
There’s no travel pouch like with the Alloy FPS.
There are no programmable macros.
Media controls didn’t work under all conditions.

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Read: Speck Back To School Backpacks for 2017 Preview

Ratings

• Appearance: 9.5/10
• Usefulness (gaming): 9/10
• Overall: 9.1/10

• Space/compactness: 9/10
• Usefulness (Typing up essays and whatnot): 9/10

Final Thoughts

If you couldn’t tell by now, we truly enjoyed testing this keyboard. For the record, we feel it’s in a tie with the Corsair K70 LUX for our favorite mechanical gaming keyboard of 2017. We’ve performed more than a handful of gaming keyboard reviews this year, and to date, nothing else even compares. You need to put the HyperX Alloy Elite on your radar and wish list.

The Alloy Elite mechanical gaming keyboard has a list price of just under $110.

What do you think of this Hyper Alloy Elite keyboard review? Do you agree or disagree with our verdict? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

• Follow HyperX on Twitter
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Don’t hesitate to head over to the HyperX homepage to see their current line-up of products. The HyperX Alloy Elite gaming keyboard comes with a 2-year warranty. Should you need to reach Customer Support, feel free to call one of these two numbers: 714-435-2639 or 800-435-0640 or check out their Support page.

FTC Disclosure: HyperX provided Beantown LLC with one (1) Alloy Elite mechanical gaming keyboard sample for review purposes. Both writers opinions are 100% their own, and neither are paid product ambassadors.

Read: Lexar JumpDrive C25i Review for iPhone or iPad

Gaming: HyperX Pulsefire FPS Mouse Review

07/11/2017 By Hakan Can

Until a few months ago, HyperX was best known for its DRAM memory, flash/solid state drives, and gaming headsets. This year, they’ve jumped further into the gaming arena with their Alloy FPS gaming keyboard. More recently, they’ve introduced their first mouse and a second Alloy keyboard. I’ve spent the past couple of weeks playing with their Pulsefire First Person Shooter mouse. Is this gaming mouse a worthy addition to your rig? Without further delay, let’s take a closer look in this HyperX Pulsefire FPS mouse review.

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Key Features of the HyperX Pulsefire FPS:

Ergonomic first person shooter design
Four on-the-fly resolution settings with 400 to 3200 DPI
Pixart 3310 optical sensor and Omron switches
Six buttons configuration with two large skates
Multiple surface materials for an excellent feel and grip

Read: Gaming: HyperX Alloy FPS Keyboard Review

Per Marcus Hermann, Senior Business Manager, “HyperX is excited to offer our first gaming mouse. After extensive testing, our lab developed Pulsefire FPS to deliver the features gamers want at an incredible price point.”

HyperX Pulsefire FPS Mouse Review

Pulsefire FPS Design and Features

There’s much to like and hardly anything to dislike when it comes to this back-to-basics FPS mouse.

The shape of this mouse reminds me a little of the Logitech G303 Daedalus Apex mouse, but without the long-term pain.

This mouse is designed for the right-handed user, which is a drawback to a small percentage of you gamers. The Pulsefire FPS has half a dozen buttons from left and right click, go forward and back, wheel click, and DPI loops. These standard buttons are pre set and make audible sounds, especially the left and right buttons.

All six buttons fit my thumb, index, and middle finger well. The only bit of discomfort I had was two-thirds up the inside of my ring finger. I believe the transition from the mouse’s top to side where the ring finger meets both could have been less pronounced. Had the edge been smoother, then the fit of the mouse would be 100% perfect in my hand.

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The mouse has many unique surface materials. Much of the left and right sides are rubberized and textured with an alternating pattern offering plenty of grip. The top, while smooth, provides a little grip. The resolution button has four different colors (white, red, blue, and yellow) representing the 400, 800, 1600, and 3200 DPI settings, respectively. Where the base of your hand meets the mouse, there’s the red HyperX logo. And the scroll wheel feels terrific with its repeating S-tread pattern.

On the underside, there are two large skates (foot pads) which allow the mouse to glide across any flat surface.

Within the mouse, there are a Pixart 3310 optical sensor and Omron D2FC-F-7N primary switches. Package contents include the mouse with its 6′ braided cord and a quick start guide.

Read: Gaming: Patriot Viper V570 Mouse Review

Read: HyperX Cloud II Headset Review

Final Thoughts

Although we wish it was priced a little less, the HyperX Pulsefire FPS mouse delivers the goods at a fair price of $50. There are plenty of gaming mice available with a variety of features, so shoppers will compare until they find the right mouse for them. If you’re looking for a no frills, back-to basics gaming mouse, then place this one on your short list.

All-in-all, this is a well-designed mouse which we continue to enjoy using.

The HyperX Pulsefire FPS mouse is available for purchase at Best Buy, on Amazon (see link below) and the HyperX website.

What do you think of this HyperX Pulsefire FPS mouse review? Do you agree or disagree with our verdict? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

• Follow HyperX on Twitter
• Follow HyperX on Facebook
• Follow HyperX on Instagram

• Follow Beantown on Twitter
• Follow Beantown on Facebook
• Follow Beantown on Instagram

Don’t hesitate to head over to the HyperX homepage to see their current line-up of products. The HyperX Pulsefire FPS gaming mouse comes with a 2-year warranty. Should you need to reach Customer Support, feel free to call one of these two numbers: 714-435-2639 or 800-435-0640 or check out their Support page.

FTC Disclosure: HyperX provided Beantown LLC with one (1) Alloy Pulsefire FPS gaming mouse sample for review purposes. This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

Read: HyperX Cloud Revolver S Headset Preview

Gaming: HyperX Alloy FPS Keyboard Review

03/26/2017 By Hakan Can

If you live in North America and are into Gaming, then you’ve probably heard of HyperX. By now, the high majority of us are familiar with their DRAM and Cloud headsets. But even after being on the market for five months, there are still those who aren’t aware that HyperX has entered the gaming keyboard sector. Back in October of 2016, the Alloy FPS keyboard with Cherry® MX Blue switches was introduced. Four months later, this same keyboard became available with Cherry® MX Red and Brown switches. Do you want to know how this mechanical gaming keyboard ranks with us? Without any further delay, welcome to our HyperX Alloy FPS keyboard review.

Pros:
• Attractive, red-on-black design
• Portable design w/detachable cable
• Solid-steel frame
• Cherry® MX switches (Red, Blue, Brown)
• Built for the gamer in mind
• Well priced at ~$100

Cons:
• No onboard memory
• Keyboard may be too heavy for some
• Keyboard may be too compact for some

Read: HyperX Cloud Revolver Headset Review

Per Marcus Hermann, Senior Business Manager at HyperX, “HyperX is pleased to expand our Alloy FPS keyboard product line to now include Cherry MX Red or Brown switches, along with the blue switches we introduced in 2016. Gamers who play FPS classics like CS: GO or Overwatch can now choose from a variety of Alloy FPS gaming keyboards including a linear switch, a tactile switch or something in between.”

HyperX Alloy FPS Keyboard Review

HyperX Alloy FPS Design and Features

The Alloy FPS is a mechanical gaming keyboard with a 50 million push button life cycle. It comes with six different lighting effects (including a custom effect) to choose from. Of these, two in particular: “Wave” and “Explosion,” are the coolest. You can change the brightness (4 levels) to your liking.

This keyboard is compact, like those made by Coolermaster. Its exact dimensions are 17.4 x 5.1 x 1.5 inches and weighs 2.34 lbs. And in case you haven’t noticed, there’s no wrist guard/plate. You just don’t need one for the games this keyboard was designed to play with.

Flipping the keyboard over, you’ll notice a flat surface with two flip-up legs. The legs are nearly an inch wide with ample space for your thumb to open/close them. The mini-USB connection for the 6′ detachable braided cord is located at the rear of the keyboard. There’s even a USB charging port for your mobile phone battery.

The Alloy FPS keyboard comes with your standard Num-Lock, Caps-Lock, and Scroll-Lock, but it has another lock which is appropriately titled “Game mode.” Enabling Game mode disables the Windows key preventing any accidental press of the Windows key fatal.

Wondering about N-key rollover? There’s no need to. The Alloy FPS has 6-key/N-key modes and is 100% anti-ghosting.

You can also completely lock the keyboard out, for when you want to vacuum it or pull a key out. A key puller, as well as eight red key covers, are supplied as part of the package contents. It has the now standard media player controls such as “Previous”, “Next”, “Play/Pause”, “Mute”, Audio “Decrease”, and “Increase.” You can switch “WASD” to the arrow keys and vice versa. The keyboard also can “Increase” and “Decrease” LED backlight brightness and modes.

And before I forget, I’ve got to mention that this keyboard is portable. Within the package, contents is a terrific padded mesh carry bag.

All-in-all, it’s a nicely designed keyboard with an HX logo on the spacebar.

Read: HyperX Cloud II Headset Review

Final Thoughts

Unlike many gaming keyboards, you don’t need software to work the lighting effects. As stated above, you can change the lighting effects using the Fn + Right/Left Dimming Keys. If custom lighting effects are what you desire, then look no further than the Alloy FPS.

The keyboard itself is beautifully designed with a sturdy build. The red LED lights are bright and vibrant.

The list price of the Alloy FPS Keyboard (whether it has Cherry® MX Blue, Brown, or Red Switches) is $99.99. See the Amazon link at the bottom of this post. If you’re lucky, you may be able to catch it for $20 less on sale at Fry’s or Newegg.

It’s a rare day when we can rave about a product and not say one negative thing, but this is how we feel about the Alloy FPS keyboard. We’re sure you’ll arrive at the same conclusion.

The Alloy FPS was the first keyboard put forth by HyperX and they hit it out of the gaming arena. We highly recommend you check out this product before making your next mechanical keyboard purchase.

Do you agree or disagree with any part of this post? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

The HyperX Alloy FPS mechanical gaming keyboard comes with a 2-year warranty. Should you need to reach Customer Support, feel free to call one of these two numbers: 714-435-2639 or 800-435-0640.

• Follow HyperX on Twitter
• Follow HyperX on Facebook
• Follow HyperX on Instagram

• Follow Beantown on Twitter
• Follow Beantown on Facebook
• Follow Beantown on Instagram

Don’t hesitate to head over to the HyperX homepage to see their current line-up of products. We hear through the grapevine that a mouse isn’t too far away.

FTC Disclosure: HyperX provided Beantown LLC with one (1) Alloy FPS gaming keyboard sample for review purposes. This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

Read: HyperX Cloud Revolver S Headset Preview

HyperX Cloud Revolver S Headset Preview

03/14/2017 By Hakan Can

The All-New HyperX Cloud Revolver S Headset

Days before this past weekend’s PAX East, we started hearing whispers that the folks at HyperX were set to introduce a new product at the annual gaming expo. Knowing what the HyperX product line-up was for the first half of 2017, we were highly confident that the HyperX Cloud Revolver S headset was set to make its public debut. We were correct, and on March 13th, it became available for retail purchase.Having seen the HyperX Cloud Revolver S headset two months ago at CES, we were looking forward to the released product. We weren’t disappointed.

• Comfortable fit and attractive design
• Dolby® Surround 7.1 audio
• Directional drivers of 50mm size

• TeamSpeak and Discord Certified
• New, wider solid-steel frame
• Promotional Price of $149

Read: HyperX Cloud Revolver Headset Review

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HyperX Cloud Revolver S Design, Features, and Fit

If you walked around many of the live streaming sets like EVGA‘s for example, you’d notice that the streamers were wearing gaming headsets from the HyperX Cloud family. This should tell you something about the brand.

This new gaming headset is the successor to the popular Cloud Revolver. The HyperX Cloud Revolver S comes with a near identical look to its predecessor, now with Dolby® Surround 7.1 audio, a wider, solid steel outer frame, and a matte black finish.

The first improvement you’ll notice with this Hyper Cloud gaming headset is the vibration that appeared on its predecessor is now gone. No more ‘twang’ sounds. Next, you’ll notice an advanced audio control box and the headset’s Dolby® Surround 7.1 audio capability. (More on sound in our full review.)

Headphone and microphone volumes are controlled by dials on the right with an equalizer button on the left. This equalizer button cycles between 3 modes: Vocal, Flat, and Bass Boost. You’ll find Dolby® Surround and microphone mute buttons in the center.

All-in-all, it’s a nicely designed controller.

Read: HyperX Cloud II Headset Review

HyperX Cloud Revolver S Performance

The Dolby® Surround 7.1 sound quality is quite impressive! I briefly got to test this headset with gaming, films, and music. Believe it or not, I was most impressed with Bluegrass music. No Joke.

Like its predecessor, the Cloud Revolver S comes with Circumaural, Closed-back Dynamic 50mm directional drivers positioned parallel to your ears. Frequency response remains the same at a range of 12 Hz- 28000 Hz.

This HyperX gaming headset comes with an attachable uni-directional, noise canceling mic with a frequency response of 50 Hz-18000 Hz.

Read: Gaming: HyperX Cloud Stinger Headset Review

In Summary

This new gaming headset offers plenty of features at a $149.99 price point. Feel free to compare it against other brands and models at this price.

The headphones support Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC, and numerous mobile and virtual reality devices.

Within each package comes the Cloud Revolver S headset w/1M Cable, a detachable NC microphone, and an advanced audio control box w/2M cable.

The HyperX Cloud Revolver S gaming headphones come with a 2-year warranty. Should you need to reach Customer Support, feel free to call one of these two numbers: 714-435-2639 or 800-435-0640.

• Follow HyperX on Twitter
• Follow HyperX on Facebook

• Follow HyperX on Instagram
• Follow HyperX on YouTube

Don’t hesitate to head over to the HyperX homepage to see their current line-up of products.

Feel free to follow Beantown on Twitter, Beantown on Facebook, and Beantown on Instagram.

FTC Disclosure: This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

Read: Silicon Valley Season 3 Release Date Announced for Digital HD

Gaming: HyperX Cloud Stinger Headset Review

11/14/2016 By Zach Can

HyperX Cloud Stinger Headset Review

For the past 2-½ years, HyperX has introduced no less than five amazing gaming headsets (Cloud, Cloud II, Cloud Core, Cloud Revolver, & CloudX) and taken the gaming arena by storm. We’ve had the pleasure of reviewing two of these headsets. Less than two months ago, they introduced their sixth gaming headset, the Cloud Stinger, this time taking aim at the budget conscious consumer. What prospective HyperX customers don’t realize is that they’re getting a $100 headset packed into a $50 body. The question you may be asking is, does the lower price point represent a drop in quality? Check out our HyperX Cloud Stinger headset review to find out.

Pros:
• Modern lightweight design
• Soft leatherette ear cups w/memory foam
• 50mm dynamic drivers
• Good stereo sound reproduction

Cons:
• No surround sound capability
• No wireless capability

Read: HyperX Cloud II Headset Review

Cloud Stinger Design and Features

The HyperX Cloud Stinger is easily comparable to the Cloud II as both feature the same method of fit to one’s head. By using an adjustable steel slider, the headband will fit best to your personal preference. This is a deviation from the Cloud Revolver which uses automatic adjustment. The Cloud Stinger comes in the traditional HyperX slick black and red colors as prominently seen throughout the Cloud family. The leatherette ear cups contain signature HyperX memory foam, in addition to being able to rotate 90 degrees. On the right ear cup, there’s a volume switch reminiscent of that on the Sennheiser Day One gaming headset. It also has a “swivel-to-mute mic” which means that if you put the microphone up, it mutes itself, and if you put it down, it unmutes itself. The microphone is noise canceling.

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Read: HyperX Cloud Revolver Headset Review

Specifications

• Sound Pressure Level: 102 ± 3db
• Driver Diameter: 50 mm w/neodymium magnets
• Type: Circumaural, closed back
• Impedance: 30 Ω
• Cable Lengths: 1.3 meter + 1.7 meter Y-Extension
• Input Power: 30mW rated, 500mW maximum

• Headphone Frequency Response: 18Hz – 23kHz
• Microphone Frequency Response: 50Hz – 18kHz
• Microphone Pick Up Pattern: Unidirectional, NC
• Microphone Sensitivity: -40db
• Total Harmonic Distortion: ≤2%
• Weight: 275 grams

Within the packaging comes the Cloud Stinger headset and the two cables listed above.

[Tweet “What prospective HyperX customers don’t realize is that they’re getting a $100 headset packed into a $50 body”]

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Overall Fit and Performance

The Cloud Stinger performs like the child of the Cloud II and Cloud Revolver; it fits comfortably upon adjustment. The memory foam isn’t as soft as that on the Plantronics RIG 400HX, but that doesn’t mean it’s uncomfortable. In fact, the leatherette feels very nice against your ears. I’ve worn the Cloud Stinger for a 3-½ consecutive hours playing Counterstrike – Global Offensive and Just Cause 3 and experienced zero discomfort. Unlike the RIG 400HX, the ear cups go completely over the ears with extra space available. The ear cup rotation I found no particular use for except the fact that you can set it with ear cups face down, or you could lay them flat over your shoulders.

The quick volume switch on the side is a great feature. Instead of fumbling with changing windows, you can do it right on the spot. It’s preferable on the headset itself instead of on a control box as the former is more straightforward. I’m a big fan of the “swivel to mute mic” feature. It’s so much easier than pressing a button on-screen or unplugging the cable. You can just put the headset down and flip it. The microphone is very easy to manipulate but feels a tad flimsy. The noise canceling on the microphone is superb. The sound quality is, unfortunately, a bit below that of the Cloud Revolver. While the level of bass is good, it just doesn’t sound quite as immersive and profound as its more expensive family member.

Read: Gaming: Plantronics RIG 400HX Headset Review

Final Thoughts

The slight drop in sound quality is more than acceptable for the $50 price tag, and the two new features the Cloud Stinger comes with (“swivel to mute mic” and quick volume control) makes it an excellent headset. It’s compatible with PC, Xbox One, PS4, Wii U, Mac, and mobile devices so that it can be used with virtually everything.

If you happen to be reading this during the Black Friday – Cyber Monday weekend, you may have seen the Cloud Stinger selling for $35, so go on and pick one of these puppies up.

As you’ve read above, this gaming headset offers plenty for the price. Currently on Amazon (see link below) the HyperX Cloud Stinger Headset goes for $50. At this price, and with these features, what’s not too excited about?

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The HyperX Cloud Stinger gaming headphones come with a 2-year warranty. Should you need to reach Customer Support, feel free to call one of these two numbers: 714-435-2639 or 800-435-0640.

Have you tried these Cloud Stinger headphones? Do you agree (or disagree) with any part of this HyperX Cloud Stinger headset review? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

Feel free to follow HyperX on Twitter and Facebook as well as this very blog on Twitter and Facebook. And don’t hesitate to head over to the HyperX website to see their latest gaming hardware.

FTC Disclosure: HyperX provided Beantown LLC with one (1) Cloud Stinger headset sample for review purposes. This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

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HyperX Cloud Revolver Headset Review

06/26/2016 By Zach Can

HyperX Cloud Revolver Gaming Headset Review

Many of you gamers out there are fans and users of the HyperX Cloud and Cloud II gaming headsets. Recently introduced and now priced at $120, the HyperX Cloud Revolver gaming headset is the next evolution of the Cloud Family of gaming headphones producing high-quality audio. These over-ear headphones are engineered with Circumaural, Closed-back Dynamic 50 mm drivers producing less than 2% total harmonic distortion. Are these gaming headphones a worthy successor to the HyperX Cloud II and as good as many claim them to be? Let’s take a greater look in this HyperX Cloud Revolver headset review.

Pros:
• Comfortable fit and attractive design
• Great stereo audio
• Directional drivers of 50mm size
• Price of $120

Cons:
• Slightly heavier than the Cloud II
• Sound resonates from tapping the steel headband

Read: HyperX Cloud II Headset Review

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HyperX Cloud Revolver Design, Features, and Fit

This gaming headset is the successor to the wildly popular HyperX Cloud II. The Cloud Revolver comes with a new look: an outer frame of solid steel.

The first change you’ll notice with this headset is the increase in weight (376g) over the Cloud II (320g), an increase of 18%. Unless you have a sensitive head, you won’t even feel a difference. Second, there’s the solid steel frame. Do refrain from tapping it as the vibrations it creates will resonate throughout the headset. Personally, I find the sound amusing, but I do understand that others will not and find it annoying. The headphones support Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Wii U, Mac, PC, and many mobile devices.

Now the headphones aren’t manually adjustable. They fit your head using a flexible metal band which is connected to each ear cup. I’ve never liked these types of headphones because they’re usually cheap and uncomfortable. The Cloud Revolver showed me what was up. The headset fit perfectly to my head, and the memory-foamed leatherette ear cups were quite comfortable. Unfortunately, if it’s hot in your playing area, in my case my bedroom, your ears will start to perspire. You may not feel it while playing, but when you take them off, you’ll notice it.

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The Cloud Revolver has some impressive noise-cancelling where most of the sound outside of your gaming experience is well muffled. It’s to the point where I can’t comprehend what my dad is saying when he’s beside me.

When using the headphones for the PC, the audio control box that comes with it is a bit annoying. I know this is nitpicking, but I’ll explain regardless. The control box just sits on the ground or in your lap. Pinning it to your shirt works, but then you have wires all over you. I’ll make a quick comparison to the Sennheiser Day One Gaming Headset. Its volume control is on the headphones themselves, thus no switch box, but, the Day One is PC only. I’ll also note that the Day One is twice the price of the Cloud Revolver. So when the Cloud Revolver control box is on your lap, the volume dial sometimes gets brushed and turns all the way up or down.

The Cloud Revolver comes with an attachable uni-directional, noise canceling mic. With a frequency response of 50Hz-18KHz, the recording quality of the mic is decent. While better than the average gaming headset it’s not at the level of the Day One headset. Even with this said, no one has complained about mic quality while on TeamSpeak™.

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HyperX Cloud Revolver Performance

The stereo sound quality is amazing! The Cloud Revolver comes with Circumaural, Closed-back Dynamic 50mm directional drivers positioned parallel to your ears that just make the audio so crisp. Distant police sirens in Grand Theft Auto V sound as if they’ve traveled to my ears.

Boasting greater sound quality (12Hz- 28KHz) than the Cloud and Cloud II (15Hz-25KHz) and most other gaming or audio headphones, I’d say the HyperX Cloud Revolver is worth a close look when making your next purchase.

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Overall Performance and Final Thoughts

As you’ve read above, this gaming headset offers plenty for the price. Currently on Amazon (see link below) the HyperX Cloud Revolver Headset goes for $117. At this price, and with the great features such as stereo audio, interchangeable cups, and more, what’s not to love?

The packaging comes with the Cloud Revolver headset w/1M Cable, a detachable microphone, and an audio control box w/2M cable.

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The HyperX Cloud Revolver gaming headphones come with a 2-year warranty. Should you need to reach Customer Support, feel free to call one of these two numbers: 714-435-2639 or 800-435-0640.

Have you tried the gaming headphones? Do you agree (or disagree) with any part of this HyperX Cloud Revolver headset review? Let us know on social media on our Twitter or Facebook pages, and feel free to follow HyperX on Twitter and Facebook.

FTC Disclosure: HyperX provided Beantown LLC with one (1) Cloud Revolver Headset sample for review purposes. This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

All photographs are the copyrighted property of Beantown LLC 2016.

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HyperX Cloud II Headset Review

06/22/2016 By Zach Can

HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset Review

Priced at just below $100, the HyperX Cloud II gaming headset is quite the affordable pair of headphones for producing high-quality gaming audio. These over-ear headphones are engineered with 53 mm drivers producing less than 2% total harmonic distortion. Are these gaming headphones as good as gamers claim them to be? Let’s take a greater look with this HyperX Cloud II headset review.

Package Contents:

Headset
Microphone
Set of Velour Ear Cushions
Airplane Adapter
USB Control Box
Mesh Carry Bag

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HyperX Cloud II Design, Features, and Fit

This gaming headset sits between the original HyperX Cloud and its successor, the HyperX Cloud Core.

The HyperX Cloud II headset improves over the original Cloud headset with increased comfort. Much of this is due to the Cloud II having memory foam within the leatherette headband. Along with the first iteration, the Cloud II is compatible with PC, Mac, PS4, and Xbox systems. It comes in a couple more colors than its predecessor such as Gun Metal (Gray/Grey whatever spelling you prefer), Pink, and Red. I think the Red looks more metallic than the Gray, but it’s up to your personal preference. The design of the Cloud II includes a detachable microphone which features noise and echo cancellation with its volume control on the control box. This is a massive plus if you’re a gamer who chats online frequently.

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While the another HyperX headset, the Cloud Revolver headset has unparalleled sound depth, it doesn’t have the 7.1 or the USB powered control box that the Cloud II has. The control box for the Cloud II has volume control, microphone sound control which I have mentioned before, a switch to mute the microphone, and of course the 7.1 enabler. The Cloud II headset even comes with interchangeable velour ear cups. In the event your ears get hot with the leatherette ear cups, you can switch them to velour. Albeit, the swapping of the cups is somewhat difficult to do.

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HyperX Cloud II 7.1 Channel Sound

Now the 7.1 surround sound is phenomenal. Playing competitive games like Counterstrike – Global Offensive with 7.1 sound makes an immense difference. I can clearly and vividly hear if an enemy is behind me. I’ve brought up Grand Theft Auto V in past reviews, but running around in first person mode with 7.1 surround sound is sweet. And for you Serious Sam players, this level of sound really makes dodging those headless kamikazes something special.

It doesn’t have to be just video games to enjoy the benefits of 7.1 surround sound. Music sounds excellent in surround mode, with instruments sounding so much clearer. After enjoying 7.1 surround, I found myself not wanting to go back to the standard 2-channel audio.

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Now this is a bit peculiar, but I have to set the volume very low on the headset, around a level of 32. The headphones produce so much sound that maybe I just can’t handle their excellence. The Cloud II is on the same footing with the Cloud Revolver on noise cancelling headphones–it truly works. Unlike the Cloud Revolver which just fits to your head, the Cloud II headset is adjustable for a better fit. If you’re a bit tight on cash, maybe because you just did other upgrades to your gaming rig, I’d recommend buying these over waiting for a sale on the Cloud Revolver.

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Overall Performance and Final Thoughts

As you’ve seen above, this headset offers plenty for the price. Currently on Amazon (see link below) the HyperX Cloud II headset goes for $85-100, depending on the color. At this price, and with the great features such as 7.1 audio, interchangeable cups, and more, what’s not to love?

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The HyperX Cloud II headphones come with a 2-year warranty. Should you need to reach Customer Support, feel free to call one of these two numbers: 714-435-2639 or 800-435-0640.

Have you tried the gaming headphones? Do you agree (or disagree) with any part of this HyperX Cloud II headset review? Let us know on social media on our Twitter or Facebook pages, and feel free to follow HyperX on Twitter and Facebook.

FTC Disclosure: HyperX provided Beantown LLC with one (1) Cloud II headset sample for review purposes. This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

Editor’s Note: My nephew (the author/reviewer) liked these gaming headphones so much that it’s highly unlikely that I’ll ever see them in my home again.

All photographs are the copyrighted property of Beantown LLC or Kingston Technology Corp.