The multi-platform Kingston HyperX Cloud Stinger is a comfortable and well-designed gaming headset that delivers quality stereo audio for PC, mobile, and console players. You could do a lot worse for fifty bucks. Actually, it would be difficult to do much better.
HyperX Cloud Stinger feature highlights and specifications
The Stinger connects to your PC, mobile device, or console via a standard 3.5mm unified mobile connector or with the included Y-adapter for Mic/Audio. For PC users, no additional software is required.
One thing you might notice “missing” is an inline remote. Volume control is a small slider on the underside of the right ear cup, and the swivel microphone automatically mutes when placed in the “up” position, and activates when lowered past about 30-45 degrees. The microphone makes a loud “click” when the mic is lowered or raised, so you know when it’s active or muted.
Additional features include rotating ear cups and durable steel hinges that swivel 90 degrees for resting comfortably on the neck/shoulder area when not in use. The Cloud Stinger also includes a generous amount of cable; with the Y-adapter attached, you have 3 meters. That’s more than a typical PC player likely needs, but probably good for a lot of console players.
HyperX Cloud Stinger features and specifications
- Type: Circumaural, Closed back
- Weight: 275 grams
- 90-degree rotating ear cups.
- 50mm directional drivers
- Memory foam ear cushions and headband
- Adjustable steel sliding headband
- Ear cup mounted volume control
- Swivel-to-mute noise-cancelling microphone
- Cable length: Headset (1.3m) + Extension Y-cable(1.7m)
- Connection: 3.5mm plug (4 pole) + extension cable – 3.5mm stereo and mic plugs
Headphone
- Frequency response 18Hz–23,000 Hz
- Impedance 30 Ω
- Sound pressure level 102 ± 3dBSPL/mW at 1kHz
- Total Harmonic Distortion (T.H.D.) ≤ 2%
- Input power Rated 30mW, Maximum 500mW
Microphone
- Element Electret condenser microphone
- Polar pattern Uni-directional, Noise-canceling
- Frequency response 50Hz–18,000 Hz
- Sensitivity -40 dBV (0dB=1V/Pa,1kHz)
HyperX Cloud Stinger performance
At 275 grams, the HyperX Cloud Stinger is quite light, and the memory-foam lined headband and ear cups provide a solid, comfortable fit without excessive pressure to your noggin.
The Stinger provides a decent measure of noise isolation, particularly for an entry level headset. It will heat up your ears a bit after about 30 minutes, but it’s otherwise quite comfortable for extended wear.
In games of Blizzard’s Overwatch and Hi-Rez Studios’ Smite, the Stinger delivered strong bass and clarity. Explosions were satisfyingly thumpy without being overbearing or muddy. Overall stereo audio was good if not exceptional for a headset in the Stinger’s price range.
The Stinger’s microphone is adequate although not fantastic, at least judged by the quality of some recorded Skype tests – but it’s still good enough to get a pass. Music, movies, and mobile usage were all good.
Overall: 9/10
The HyperX Cloud Stinger is solidly built, comfortable, and it delivers a strong gaming-grade audio performance. The HyperX Cloud Stinger is an exceptional value for its modest ($50) price tag.
PC & Video Gaming Examiner 