Over the past few weeks, I’ve been testing the HyperX Cloud Stinger headset. Now, I’m not an audiophile, I don’t follow each and every advance in audio technology. However, I am pretty much constantly using headsets almost every day of my life. Either for gaming with friends, or conference calls with work, I’ve gone through a hefty number (and numerous brands) of headsets over the years. I’ve heard it all, from expensive $200+ headsets, to the bargain basement pair you get for $20.
Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by the Hyper X Cloud Stinger, which functions as a great entry level / budget headset.
The Setup
Well, there isn’t any. The headset has a standard 1/8 inch headphone jack, so you simply plug that into your Nintendo Switch or any other audio device and you’re ready to go. You’ll be up and running and hearing great audio from the headset within moments of opening the package.
The Audio
This is where the Cloud Stinger really shines. For the price, the audio quality is fantastic. I currently use a major brand wireless headset that cost over two hundred dollars, and I honestly can’t tell much of a difference in quality between the two. Sure, my current main headset is probably slightly better in the audio quality, but it’s not noticeable in the way that has me saying a definitive “yes!” or “nope” either way. It’s that subtle.
The microphone also provides great performance. While it doesn’t stand up to the desktop-mounted condenser microphone I usually use for audio, it was again very comparable to my regular daily-use headset.
The Hardware
I don’t want to call the hardware a drawback, I don’t think that’s a fair statement to make based on the quality it provides for the cost. However, it must be noted that if you’re looking for a headset that has a ton of bells and whistles, then this is not the headset for you.
The build quality is decent (again, for very respectable for the cost), but there aren’t a lot of “extras” on the device. You’ll be dealing with a headset-mounted volume control and that’s it, no detachable mic or anything else. That being said, I don’t think it’s reasonable to expect too much more in this department.
The Verdict
The Hyper X Cloud Stinger earns our seal of approval. It provides fantastic value for money in the audio quality department with a decent, if a bit spartan, hardware build. At a MRSP under $50 US, you can’t really go wrong.
This is exactly the type of headset I’d be looking for when gaming with my Switch on the go, or any for application outside the home. You get fantastic audio quality at a very attractive price.
Want to pick up your own? Get it from Amazon here.
