A close-up of a red HyperX Cloud III headset with a durable full metal frame, held in hands against the backdrop of a gaming setup.

HyperX Cloud III: comfort wins critics, sound quality splits

Reviewers praise the memory-foam comfort and multi-platform USB connectivity, but split on the neutral sound profile and lack of bass.

1 min read

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Specifications

Driver
Dynamic, 53 mm with Neodymium magnets
Form Factor
Over‑ear, circumaural, closed back
Frequency Response
10 Hz – 21 kHz
Headphone Sensitivity
100 dB SPL/mW at 1 kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion
< 2%
Frame Type
Aluminum
Ear Cushions
Memory foam and premium leatherette
Microphone Element
Electret condenser microphone
Mic Polar Pattern
Unidirectional, noise‑canceling
Mic Sensitivity
–42 dBV (0 dB = 1 V/Pa at 1 kHz)
USB Specification
USB 2.0
Bit Depth
16‑bit, 24‑bit
Audio Controls
Onboard audio controls
Weight
0.67 lb (without mic); 0.70 lb (with mic)
Headset Cable Length
3.93 ft
USB Dongle Cable Length
4.26 ft
USB Cable Type
Type‑C
Included Connections
3.5 mm jack, USB‑A, USB‑C
Compatibility
PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Mac, Mobile
Warranty
2 years

Photos

A white HyperX Cloud III headset with pink accents is shown in a side profile view.
A white HyperX Cloud III headset with pink accents is shown in a side profile view.
A white over-ear headset with pink accents is shown in a side profile view.
A white HyperX Cloud III headset with pink accents is shown in a three-quarter view.

What reviewers say

  • The HyperX Cloud III is a wired gaming headset that focuses on the basics and offers good connectivity options and comfort for its price point, but it falls short in sound quality and lacks many features.

    www.soundguys.com ↗
  • The HyperX Cloud III are decent for neutral sound with a very neutral mid‑range that makes instruments and voices clear but somewhat dark, and they lack a rumbly, punchy bass. Closed‑back design limits the passive soundstage. The wired connection via USB allows adjustment of the sound profile through graphic EQ or presets in the NGENUITY companion software, and the headphones are very sturdy and comfortable.

    www.rtings.com ↗
  • The review recommends the wired HyperX Cloud III as the best choice, praising its comfort, mic clarity, multiplatform support, build quality, and audio clarity—all at a low price.

    www.pcbuildhelper.com ↗
  • The HyperX Cloud III is presented as a solid upgrade to the Cloud II, offering improved comfort, a sleeker premium look, and excellent bass at a budget-friendly price of $99.99. While it retains a similar sound profile to its predecessors, the review notes some minor drawbacks such as mic sibilance, a loud mute button, weak virtual surround, and an unnecessary software component.

    www.tomshardware.com ↗

Our take

Based on 4 reviews

Based on how these outlets tested it, all four reviews highlight the HyperX Cloud III's comfort and sturdy build quality. TechRadar and RTINGS note its clear mid-range and neutral sound, while PCBuildHelper and Tom's Hardware praise its multiplatform support and value. The reviews agree that the headset delivers reliable performance for its price point.

Where they split is on sound quality: RTINGS finds the bass lacking and soundstage limited by the closed-back design, while Tom's Hardware calls it excellent bass and a solid upgrade. PCBuildHelper calls it the best choice, but Tom's Hardware notes mic sibilance and weak virtual surround. For a buyer, this means the headset suits those prioritizing comfort and clarity over deep bass or advanced features.

Pros

  • Comfortable and sturdy build
  • Clear mid-range and vocal clarity
  • Multiplatform support
  • Good value for price

Cons

  • Lacks punchy bass
  • Weak virtual surround
  • Mic sibilance noted

Best for: Buyers seeking comfort and clear audio for multiplatform use; skip if you prioritize deep bass or advanced surround features.

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