HyperX Cloud III Wireless: A Review of Fantastic Spatial Audio, with a focus on Compatibility

Key Takeaways

HyperX Cloud III Wireless Headset provides immersive sound quality with 3D spatial audio, making it ideal for gamers looking for a mid-range option.

The headset offers a comfortable fit for long hours of wear, although the leatherette material may become warm during extended use. The microphone provides clear communication with efficient noise cancellation, and the headset boasts an impressive battery life of around 90 to 100 hours.

Sound design plays a significant role in enhancing the gaming experience, particularly with the prevalence of 3D audio. Due to the underwhelming sound quality of most built-in TV speakers, brands like HyperX, with its Cloud III Wireless Headset, step in to deliver the immersive auditory experience that modern video games demand.

Before diving into this review, it's important to note that I recently switched to the wired alternative of the Cloud III Wireless Headset. The differences between the two are minimal, aside from the obvious distinction between a wired and wireless device. I will discuss the wired model later, but for now, let's focus on praising the impressive quality of this wireless option in the mid-range market.

The HyperX Cloud III Wireless gaming headset from HyperX strikes a balance between impressive audio and minor flaws. Despite not being perfect, it offers enough quality that I don't feel the need to upgrade to a pricier option like the Audeze Maxwell Wireless Gaming Headset, which is more expensive and slightly higher-end.

in gaming

- Crisp and clear communication

- Versatile compatibility with PC, PS4, PS5, and Nintendo Switch

- Comes with a detachable microphone and USB-C to USB-C charging cable

- Utilizes a 2.4 GHz connection

- Features 53mm drivers with Neodymium magnets for superior audio quality

- Offers a frequency response range of 10Hz-21kHz

- Uses DTS Headphone:X for immersive spatial audio experience

- Includes an electret condenser microphone with built-in noise cancellation

- Equipped with memory foam and leatherette ear cushions for comfort

- Boasts a battery life of approximately 100 hours

- Can be charged via USB-C with a charging time of around 2.5 hours

- Weighs only 0.70 lb (31 kg) with the microphone attached

- Pros include enhanced 3D spatial audio for an immersive gaming experience.

Long-lasting battery life

Crisp microphone with effective noise cancellation

Cons Leatherette material can get hot

Runs on older drivers

No Xbox compatibility

$169.99 at Amazon $169.99 at HyperX

Design and Fit

The wireless version of the HyperX Cloud III Headset that I had the opportunity to test had a slightly different appearance compared to the wired model. It featured a black cushioned headband and earpads, contrasting with a vibrant red metallic frame. Although the colored frame is a minor distinction from the black-on-black option, it instantly gives off a more premium impression, especially due to the presence of a red HyperX logo on the earcup instead of a black one.

The fit of the headphones was comfortable on my rather large head, even after three hours of defending the planet against the insect invaders in "Earth Defense Force 5." Having extensively used the wired model before, I was already aware that the cushions were suitable for prolonged use, although they could use a bit more firmness. There was no squeezing or tightness around my ears, but the cushions would benefit from something to reduce heat buildup. After just an hour, a small ring of sweat accumulated around my ear. Switching to real leather or fabric cushions could potentially solve this issue, as synthetic leather is less breathable.

Joe Robinson

The fit was the only issue I encountered when wearing my Razer Anzu Smart Glasses, which have slightly larger temples than regular glasses. The headset and temples caused noticeable discomfort and made it challenging to use the glasses. Although I don't use the built-in speaker and microphone of the smart glasses, I still appreciate them for their blue light filtering.

The HyperX audio controls are user-friendly and practical, featuring a small dial and microphone toggle with a LED indicator on opposite earcups. There is also a separate power button near the microphone toggle, designed in a distinct shape to avoid any confusion.

Sound and Microphone Quality

I selected "Earth Defense Force" as one of my test games for a specific reason. While it may not be renowned for utilizing cutting-edge audio technology, the game truly embodies chaotic sound. I was intrigued to see how the angled 53mm drivers, which are the same ones utilized in the Cloud II, would blend all the in-game audio elements together. Much to my delight, the sound quality was noticeably superior and more defined compared to the speakers on my TV. All the cacophony, from the barrage of machine gun fire to the spontaneous singing of EDF soldiers, became more distinct and less of a jumbled mess.

The sound design of "Earth Defense Force" isn't its strong suit, unlike "Dead Space" (2023), which excels in this aspect. Therefore, I had to determine the performance of DTS Headphone:X Spatial Audio in the vastness of space.

Right from the start, I felt uneasy with the immersive sounds of the USG Ishimura in my ears. Every squelch, creak, distant roar, or malfunctioning motorized door added to my discomfort. Spatial audio has had a significant impact on gaming, and it's commendable to see companies like HyperX embracing this technology.

I do wish HyperX had upgraded the drivers; however, with DTS Headphone:X stealing the show, overlooking this oversight is quite easy. Frankly, I am unaware of what potential improvements the newer drivers might offer, and I do not believe it is worth dwelling on when HyperX can extract a significant amount of performance from its 53mm option.

A Suitable Tool for Communication

The microphone on previous headsets I've used was often added as an afterthought, serving more as a decorative feature than a functional one. It gave players a false sense of hope that their teammates could hear them. However, the Cloud III Wireless is different. Its detachable microphone includes a built-in mesh filter, effectively reducing background noise and ensuring clarity in your voice.

The microphone tests I conducted yielded favorable outcomes. The noise cancellation feature has been refined in the Cloud III model to address background noise with slightly less intensity. During my brief usage of the Cloud II, the microphone occasionally obscured my voice, causing it to blend with the background. However, I encountered no such problems with the Cloud III.

Battery and Connectivity

HyperX has made an interesting choice by limiting connectivity to the included 2.4GHZ dongle, excluding the option for Bluetooth. Although this ensures better audio quality, it unfortunately means that the headset cannot seamlessly work with mobile devices. Moreover, Xbox users are also disadvantaged as the headset only connects through a USB-C dongle. However, the headset does provide a USB-C to USB-A adapter, making it compatible with all PCs, the PS4, and the Nintendo Switch. Thankfully, Xbox gamers can still enjoy HyperX's superior audio experience through the wired option.

The Cloud III offers an impressive battery life of 120 hours, especially when considering its peak performance without DTS X and microphone usage. Under normal conditions, users can expect approximately 90 to 100 hours of battery life, which is still a substantial amount of time. During my five-hour usage of the headset, the battery only dropped from 100% to 80%, demonstrating its long-lasting capabilities. Furthermore, the included USB-C charging cable made the charging process simple and convenient.

The NGENUITY App

Mark LoProto / How-to Geek

Nowadays, it seems like nearly everything has a companion app, and that holds true for HyperX's suite of accessories and peripherals as well. Specifically designed for Windows users, the NGENUITY App offers backstage access to the settings of the Cloud III, which includes convenient features like a toggle for DTSX Spatial Sound and a full equalizer. However, unless you have a strong desire to fine-tune the bass, treble, and other settings, there isn't much incentive to use NGENUITY. While it does have a useful battery indicator, this app is more suitable for devices equipped with programmable buttons, such as the Pulsefire Haste 2 mouse that I personally utilize.

Pricing and Availability

Priced at $169.99, the HyperX Cloud III Wireless Headset comes in either a sleek all-black design or a stylish black-and-red combination. When compared to other high-quality or premium headsets such as the Audeze Maxwell, it offers a reasonable and attractive price.

The Maxwell comes with 90mm Planar Magnetic Drivers, Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, and a sturdy aluminum and steel frame, all at a price of $299. In contrast, the Kaira Pro headset by Razer offers 50mm TriForce Titanium drivers, memory foam ear cushions, but has a shorter battery life of 20 hours, and a price of $149.99. The wireless Cloud III is reasonably priced considering its features. However, if you're looking to save some money, the Cloud III Wired Headset is available for just $99.99 and is compatible with all modern gaming consoles.

Should You Buy the HyperX Cloud III Wireless Headset?

The absence of Xbox compatibility on the list is disappointing, but understandable given my primary gaming platform. Nevertheless, HyperX's Cloud III Wireless Headset exceeded my expectations on both PC and PS4. Its utilization of DTS Headphones:X Spatial Audio immersed me in such a terrifying manner that I failed to notice certain aspects during my initial playthrough of "Dead Space." Despite the 53mm drivers being a bit outdated, they still deliver exceptional audio quality. Moreover, the microphone's built-in mesh filter and noise cancellation features ensure that your voice remains clear and undisturbed, allowing for seamless communication with your fellow players.

The wireless functionality of the headset did not impact the overall quality. I struggled to distinguish any differences between the wired and wireless options as they were equally well-made. The 2.4GHz wireless capability performed admirably, even in environments crowded with wireless devices, and I never experienced any disconnections.

The Cloud III Wireless Headset offers excellent comfort and durability, although I would prefer that HyperX replace the synthetic rubber cushions with a more breathable material. If not for the issue of my ears becoming hot, I could effortlessly wear the headset for hours without needing to take a break. The extensive battery life of approximately 90 to 100 hours makes this wireless headset ideal for extended usage periods.

offers a solid mid-range option for gamers seeking an immersive 3D spatial audio experience and clear communication. Featuring DTS Headphone:X technology, this headset delivers exceptional sound quality that is particularly well-suited for casual consumers. With a few refinements to its overall design, the Cloud III Wireless headset could easily rival more high-end alternatives.

$169.99 at Amazon $169.99 at HyperX

Editor's P/S

The HyperX Cloud III Wireless Headset is a fantastic choice for gamers looking for an immersive and affordable audio experience. The headset offers 3D spatial audio, which makes gaming more immersive and enjoyable. The sound quality is crisp and clear, and the microphone provides clear communication with efficient noise cancellation. The headset is also very comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time. The only downside is that the leatherette material can get a bit warm during extended use.

Overall, I highly recommend the HyperX Cloud III Wireless Headset for gamers looking for a great audio experience at a mid-range price.