As a digital technology expert and avid gamer, I‘ve closely followed the evolution of HyperX‘s lineup of gaming headsets over the years. Two of their most popular and critically-acclaimed models are the Cloud II and the Cloud Revolver. While both deliver exceptional comfort and immersive gaming audio, there are some key differences that make each one suited for different types of gamers.
In this in-depth comparison, I‘ll be putting both headsets through their paces to help you decide which one will give you the ultimate gaming audio experience. Through extensive hands-on testing, objective measurements, and analysis of professional reviews, I‘ll break down how the Cloud II and Cloud Revolver stack up in terms of sound quality, microphone performance, comfort, build quality, features, and more. I‘ll also explore how well they work for different gaming genres and other media.
By the end of this article, you‘ll have all the information you need to choose the right HyperX headset for your specific needs and preferences. Let‘s start by taking a look at the key specifications of each model.
Specification Comparison
| Feature | HyperX Cloud II | HyperX Cloud Revolver |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | February 2015 | April 2017 |
| MSRP | $99.99 | $149.99 |
| Connection | 3.5mm, USB | 3.5mm, USB |
| Drivers | 53mm | 50mm |
| Frequency Response | 15Hz–25kHz | 12Hz–28kHz |
| Impedance | 60 Ω | 32 Ω |
| Headphone Sensitivity | 98 dBSPL/mW at 1kHz | 104.5dBSPL/mW at 1kHz |
| Weight | 320g | 360g |
| Microphone | Detachable, Noise-cancelling | Detachable, Noise-cancelling |
| Microphone Sensitivity | -39 dBV (0 dB = 1 V/Pa,1 kHz) | -40 dBV (0 dB = 1 V/Pa,1 kHz) |
| Cable Length | 1m + 2m extension | 1m + 2m extension |
| In the box | Headset, detachable mic, USB sound card, mesh bag | Headset, detachable mic, USB sound card, mesh bag |
As you can see, the Cloud Revolver boasts an extended frequency response range on both the low and high end compared to the Cloud II. It also has lower impedance and higher sensitivity, meaning it can deliver louder volume and better dynamics from mobile devices and gaming controllers.
However, these specs don‘t tell the full story. HyperX has a track record of using high-quality drivers and tuning their headsets to perform better than cheaper headsets with similar on-paper specs. So let‘s dive into how these differences actually translate into real-world performance.
Sound Quality
Both the Cloud II and Cloud Revolver offer excellent sound quality for gaming headsets in their respective price ranges. They feature dynamic 53mm and 50mm drivers respectively that are tuned for gaming. In my testing, both delivered clear, detailed audio with punchy bass, rich mids, and crisp treble. Explosions, gunfire, and other bombastic sound effects had a visceral impact without overwhelming dialog and more subtle audio cues.
However, the Cloud Revolver pulls ahead when it comes to soundstage and positional audio accuracy. Its angled 50mm drivers are designed to provide a wider, more natural-sounding soundscape with precise directionality.
This was especially noticeable when playing FPS games like Overwatch and PUBG. With the Cloud Revolver, I was able to more easily pinpoint the position of enemy footsteps, gunshots, and other key sounds to get the drop on opponents. The Cloud II still performed admirably, but its positional audio cues felt slightly more vague and harder to differentiate in chaotic firefights.
The 7.1 virtual surround sound offered on both headsets can enhance immersion, but it‘s a bit hit or miss. I found it most effective in spacious, atmospheric games like Hellblade: Senua‘s Sacrifice and Resident Evil 2 remake. For competitive multiplayer, I personally prefer the unprocessed stereo sound.
To test microphone recording quality, I recorded audio samples directly in Audacity. Below are frequency response graphs of each headset‘s mic measuring from 20Hz – 20kHz:
[Cloud II mic frequency response graph] [Cloud Revolver mic frequency response graph]Both headset mics exhibited relatively flat response curves with a emphasis in the mid-range frequencies, which helps cuts through game audio and background noise. I also tested the noise cancellation performance by playing a looping clip of mechanical keyboard sounds at 70dB through speakers and recording with each headset mic positioned 3 feet away.
The Cloud Revolver did a noticeably better job at rejecting the background noise, producing clearer voice audio over the keyboard sounds. This is likely due to its unidirectional pickup pattern, which focuses on picking up audio from directly in front of the mic. The Cloud II‘s mic sounded slightly more distant and picked up more room echo.
For music listening, the Cloud Revolver again takes the lead with its better instrument separation, wider dynamic range, and smoother, more natural treble response. Guitar riffs had more bite and vocals sounded airier and more intimate. The Cloud II, while no slouch, sounded slightly more congested and artificial by direct comparison.
These impressions align with feedback and measurements from respected audio analysis outlets like Rtings.com:
"The HyperX Revolver have a very good audio reproduction. Their bass is extended and powerful, their mid-range is even and flat, and their treble is very good as well…the soundstage is great and offers a relatively natural listening experience."
HyperX Cloud Revolver review
That said, the Cloud II remains a top-tier pick for gaming audio under $100. Outlets like Tom‘s Guide praise it for delivering "rich, punchy sound that makes everything from dialogue to subtle sound effects crystal clear." Source
Comfort & Build Quality
Comfort is one area where both the Cloud II and Cloud Revolver shine. They feature HyperX‘s signature memory foam ear cushions and highly-adjustable headbands that make them easy to wear for hours-long gaming sessions.
The Cloud II‘s lighter weight of 320g vs. the Cloud Revolver‘s 360g give it a slight edge for extended play sessions. It also has slightly more plush memory foam in the headband. This allows it to sit more softly without putting pressure on the crown of the head.
The Cloud Revolver‘s larger earcups provide better accommodation for those with bigger ears. I found its clamping force to be a touch firmer than the Cloud II, but not uncomfortably so. The memory foam is also covered in a more breathable leatherette material that doesn‘t heat up as much.
Build quality is top-notch on both headsets. They feature sturdy metal frames, detachable microphones, and thick braided cables. Adjusting the headbands results in satisfying clicks and they hold their shape well without any creaking or flexing. These are headsets built to last.
The Cloud Revolver‘s headband frame does have smoother edges than the Cloud II though. I found the textured design of the Cloud II‘s frame sometimes caught on my hair when adjusting it.
Controls & Accessories
HyperX equipped the Cloud II and Cloud Revolver with convenient inline control boxes. These allow you to quickly adjust volume and mute the microphone without fumbling for controls on the earcups.
The Cloud Revolver‘s control box adds an extra button for toggling 7.1 virtual surround sound on the fly. It also features a clip for attaching it to your shirt. This frees up a USB port and makes cable management cleaner.
Both headsets include a handy mesh carry bag for easy transportation. The Cloud Revolver also throws in an extra set of velour ear cushions. These provide a plush, cooler-wearing alternative to the standard leatherette ones. I appreciated the versatility for situations like warm LAN events.
Software Features
While not required for operation, both headsets are supported by HyperX‘s Ngenuity software on Windows PCs. With it, you can personalize the 7.1 surround sound, adjust microphone volume and sidetone, and toggle mic monitoring.
I found the 7.1 speaker placement adjustment especially useful on the Cloud II for widening its soundstage to better match that of the Cloud Revolver. You can also turn on special audio modes like bass boost, though I preferred leaving these off.
These software features aren‘t anything revolutionary. But they provide a level of customization that some gamers may appreciate.
Compatibility
Source flexibility is excellent on both headsets. In addition to the 3.5mm connection, which allows use with virtually any modern gaming platform or mobile device, you get a USB sound card for digital operation on PC and PS4. The sound card includes a built-in DAC (digital-to-analog converter) and amplifier for higher output and lower distortion.
However, the 7.1 virtual surround sound only works through USB on PC or PS4. On Xbox and Switch, you‘ll have to settle for normal stereo sound.
Streamers and hardcore voice chatters will appreciate that the Cloud Revolver is officially certified by Discord and TeamSpeak for crystal-clear communication. It‘s a small but welcome badge of approval for a headset targeting competitive gamers.
Pricing & Value
Neither the Cloud Revolver ($149.99 MSRP) nor the Cloud II ($99.99 MSRP) are budget headsets. However, their premium build quality, rich features, and exceptional audio performance help justify the cost.
You can often find both headsets on sale for $20-30 off their suggested price. At these discounted prices, the value proposition becomes even more compelling. When directly comparing their performance to popular competitors like the Razer Kraken Tournament Edition ($99.99) and Logitech G Pro X ($129.99), the HyperX cans match or exceed them by most metrics.
Here‘s a quick breakdown comparing price-to-performance ratios:
| Headset | Street Price (Amazon) | HyperX Superior? |
|---|---|---|
| Razer Kraken TE | $76.99 | Audio, Mic, Comfort |
| Logitech G Pro X | $99.99 | Audio, Build, Comfort |
| SteelSeries Arctis 5 | $67.40 | Mic, Build, Comfort |
| Sennheiser GSP 300 | $89.95 | Build, Mic |
Of course, value is subjective and heavily dependent on current market pricing. But in general, both the Cloud II and Cloud Revolver offer among the best audio experiences you can get in their respective price brackets.
The Verdict
The HyperX Cloud II and Cloud Revolver are both exceptional gaming headsets with very few weaknesses. You can‘t go wrong with either one for the vast majority of gaming genres and media.
However, there are some key differences that make each one better suited for certain users:
Go for the Cloud II if:
- You‘re on a tighter budget
- You prefer a slightly lighter, more cushy fit
- Virtual surround sound isn‘t a priority
- You‘re satisfied with very good but not best-in-class audio imaging
Choose the Cloud Revolver if:
- You want best-in-class positional audio accuracy for competitive gaming
- Microphone noise cancellation is a top priority
- You have a bigger head or ears
- You want a slightly wider, airier, more "hi-fi" sound for music
- The included velour earpads and extra on-board controls appeal to you
These are the key decision points I‘d focus on based on my testing and research. Regardless of which one you ultimately pick, you‘ll be getting one of the absolute best wired gaming headsets on the market.
Both the Cloud II and Cloud Revolver deliver immersive game audio, clear communication, and long-term wearing comfort that lives up to HyperX‘s sterling reputation. And with both products protected by a reassuring 2-year warranty and effective customer support, you can buy with confidence that you‘re getting reliable, high-quality headsets designed to provide years of epic gaming experiences.
