Choosing the right headset will help you get better scores, especially if you’re into battlefield games. It’s common knowledge that wired headphones do a much better job than wireless ones when it comes to gaming, mainly because you don’t have to worry about lag time. Even with the significant advances that we’re witnessing in technology, wireless headphones still can’t offer what wired ones do.
In this article, we’ll be comparing two wired headphones that have been popular ever since they came out; the HyperX Cloud Alpha and HyperX Cloud 2. As these two models are made by the same manufacturer and have the same price range, things get a bit confusing. You needn’t worry, though; we’ve got you covered.
Hyperx Cloud Alpha Vs Hyperx Cloud ii Specs
| Headset | HyperX Cloud Alpha | HyperX Cloud II |
| Wireless Type | RF | RF |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 1 % | 2 % |
| Sound Output | Stereo | Surround System |
| Cable Length | 4.3 ft | 3.3 ft |
| Microphone Technology | Condenser Technology | Condenser Technology |
| Headphone Sensitivity | 98 dB headphones | 98 dB headphones |
| Recharge Time | 5 hours | 3 hours |
| Headphone Magnet Material | Neodymium | Neodymium |
| Headphone Cup Type | Closed | Closed |
| Headphone Driver Technology | Dynamic | Dynamic |
| Remote Control Function | On / Off | On / Off |
| Ear Pad Material | Leatherette | Leatherette |
| Microphone Mount Type | Detachable | Detachable |
| Recommended Use | Computers, Game Console, Portable Electronics | Computers, Game Console, Portable Electronics |
| Connectivity | Wired | Wired |
| Color | Alpha, Black, Blackout, Blue, Red, White | Black, Black / Red, Blue, Gray, Pink, Red, White |
| Weight | 11.9 oz | 11.3 oz |
| Quantity | 1 Pack | 1 Pack |
| Use | Computer, Video Game Console | Computer, Video Game Console |
| Style | On-ear | On-ear |
| Features | Headset, With Microphone, Noise Canceling, Over-ear, For Gaming, With Detachable Cable | Headset, With Microphone, Noise Canceling, Over-ear, For Gaming, Surround Sound, With Rechargeable Battery |
HyperX Cloud Alpha vs. Cloud 2 – Full Comparison
In this part of the article, we’ll be getting a closer look at the different aspects that affect your gaming experience while using each of these headsets. Going through these specs, you’ll know what to expect from each headset.
Design
Both headsets feature the same design that you’ll instantly fall in love with, mainly because the design speaks for what these headphones were built for, so anyone can tell they’re made for gaming as soon as their eyes fall on both headsets.
The anodized aluminum makes the headphones on top of the durable options you can currently find on the market. Moreover, it doesn’t interfere with comfort; the headphones are lightweight, and you can keep them on your head for extended periods without any struggles. They’re flexible and can be adjusted for a perfect fit, regardless of your head size.
Winner: Draw
Comfort
Comfort can’t be negotiated, especially for hardcore gamers who spend many hours with the headphones on. This is why HyperX made sure not to compromise it, even for those who wear glasses. Both the Cloud Alpha and Cloud 2 feature memory foam that’s easy on the ears. Moreover, you can adjust the ear cups and the headband for a perfect fit.
Winner: Draw
Sound Quality
No one can deny that both headphones sound great. However, the Cloud Alpha offers a cleaner sound that feels more natural. As it turns out, the reason behind this is the dual-chamber ear cup design that produces a more dynamic sound with a flatter frequency.
As for distortion, it isn’t an issue with either headset. Imaging and soundstage are the same with both headphones with excellent details and accuracy.
The drivers are larger than average in both headsets, making it much easier to push sound through the earcups. Battlefield games are outstanding while using both devices, but we’ll give some extra credit to the Cloud Alpha as it supports 7.1 surround sound without the need to connect to an external amplifier.
Winner: HyperX Cloud Alpha
Microphone
The microphones on both headphones are detachable, which is great because you can just remove them whenever you don’t need them or even replace them with fancier ones.
Nonetheless, we don’t think replacing the microphone is necessary with the HyperX Cloud Alpha; its quality is remarkable. It features noise cancellation, so your voice will be heard clearly during in-game chats, regardless of the environment you’re in.
With the Cloud 2, though, things are a bit different. The first thing to bear in mind is that you’ll have to place the microphone a little far from your mouth; otherwise, your teammates will hear you breathe.
Furthermore, we noticed that the mic’s sound is much better when you connect the microphone to the motherboard directly, so we recommend trying this out to see what works out best for you.
Winner: HyperX Cloud Alpha
Other Features
Although the sound quality and the microphone affect the gaming experience the most, one must consider other features that don’t do much for gaming, but the user experience instead.
With the HyperX Cloud Alpha, what stands out is that it’s certified by TeamSpeak, which means that communicating with your teammates is as enjoyable as it could be. What’s even better is that the included cables are incredibly durable, owing to the braided design, and they feature different controls for the headphones’ volume and mic.
The HyperX Cloud 2, on the other hand, comes with many accessories that make it suitable for other purposes rather than just gaming. You’ll also get a splitter that you can use rather than directly connecting the 3.5mm jack in case you don’t want to connect the microphone and the audio altogether. This will come in handy when you want to use a dedicated microphone rather than the one that comes with the headset.
Additionally, there’s a mini amplifier with Cloud 2 that can be used to convert the stereo output into 7.1 surround sound, a technology that many gamers are familiar with. This makes locating enemies and positioning different sounds way more accurate. Accordingly, you will perform better in FPS games.
Winner: HyperX Cloud 2
Read also: SteelSeries Arctis 7 vs Logitech G933
User Reviews and Community Feedback
HyperX Cloud Alpha:
Users and critics alike have praised the Cloud Alpha for its comfort, sound quality, and durability. Some common criticisms revolve around the lack of volume control on the headset itself and the absence of surround sound capabilities. Despite these drawbacks, Cloud Alpha has received overwhelmingly positive reviews for its overall performance.
HyperX Cloud 2:
The Cloud 2 has also garnered positive feedback from users and professional reviewers. It has been commended for its comfort, immersive surround sound, and solid build quality. Some users have criticized the lack of on-headset volume controls, similar to the Cloud Alpha, but overall, the Cloud 2 has maintained an excellent reputation in the gaming community.
Connectivity and Compatibility
HyperX Cloud Alpha:
The Cloud Alpha includes a 3.5mm jack for use with a wide range of devices, ensuring versatility in terms of connectivity. It is compatible with PCs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices, making it an excellent choice for gamers on various platforms.
HyperX Cloud 2:
Similar to the Cloud Alpha, the Cloud 2 also features a 3.5mm jack for widespread compatibility. Additionally, it comes with a USB sound card for PC users who want to take advantage of the 7.1 surround sound feature. Like the Alpha, the Cloud 2 is compatible with PCs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.
What We Like and Don’t Like About The HyperX Cloud Alpha And The Cloud 2
In this section, we’ll summarise the best features that you get with each of these headsets, as well as the negative aspects that could have been enhanced. This way, you’ll have a sum to refer to after going through the specs to help you keep your ideas organized and thus pick the more suitable option.
HyperX Cloud Alpha
Pros:
- Excellent design
- Comfortable
- Durable cables
- Compatible with multiple platforms
- Outstanding sound quality
- Supports 7.1 surround sound
- Detachable microphone with noise cancellation
- TeamSpeak-certified
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with many accessories
- Slightly heavier than the Cloud 2
HyperX Cloud 2
Pros:
- Modern design
- Extremely comfortable
- Earpads are detachable
- Both leather and fabric pads are included
- Compatible with many platforms
- TeamSpeak-certified
Cons:
- Only supports 7.1 surround sound if you connect to the mini amplifier
- Microphone performance could be enhanced
Final Thoughts
Overall, both the HyperX Cloud Alpha and Cloud 2 are exceptional gaming headsets that cater to different preferences. If you prioritize audio clarity and separation and are willing to sacrifice surround sound, the Cloud Alpha might be the better choice for you.
On the other hand, if you want an immersive gaming experience with 7.1 virtual surround sound, the Cloud 2 should be your go-to option. Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either headset, as both deliver an outstanding gaming experience.