Hyperx Cloud Alpha & Hyperx Cloud 2 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as sound quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Hyperx Cloud 2 rather than the Hyperx Cloud Alpha.
Why Do I Recommend The Hyperx Cloud 2?
- The HyperX Cloud 2 features virtual 7.1 surround sound for an immersive gaming experience, enhancing spatial awareness and directional audio clarity compared to the stereo-only Cloud Alpha.
- It comes with a USB sound card for providing enhanced audio processing, noise reduction, and advanced customization options, while the Cloud Alpha relies on standard analog output.
- The HyperX Cloud 2’s microphone has a sensitivity of -39dBV for more responsive and clearer in-game chat and calls, compared to the Cloud Alpha’s -43dBV.
- HyperX Cloud 2 includes an advanced in-line audio control box with a 7.1 toggle, volume control, and mic mute switch for on-the-fly adjustments, compared to the basic inline controls of Cloud Alpha.
- It comes with a 2m USB extension cable for a longer reach desktop setups compared to the Cloud Alpha’s default 1.3m cable.
- The HyperX Cloud 2 has both USB and 3.5mm connectivity options for providing more versatility for PC and PlayStation, whereas the Cloud Alpha only supports 3.5mm analog connections.
Maybe the Hyperx Cloud Alpha price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Hyperx Cloud 2. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
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Side By Side Comparison
Feature | Hyperx Cloud 2 | Hyperx Cloud Alpha |
Driver Type | Single-chamber 53mm dynamic drivers | Dual-chamber 50mm dynamic drivers |
Sound Profile | Standard bass and treble tuning | Treble separation |
Frequency Response | 15Hz – 25kHz | 13Hz – 27kHz |
Surround Sound | Virtual 7.1 surround sound via USB sound card | No virtual surround sound |
Microphone Frequency Response | 50Hz – 12kHz | 50Hz – 18kHz |
Microphone Sensitivity | -39dBV (0dB=1V/Pa at 1kHz) | -43dBV (0dB=1V/Pa at 1kHz) |
Frame Material | Aluminum frame | Durable aluminum frame |
Ear Cup Material | Standard memory foam with leatherette | Softer memory foam with breathable leatherette |
Ear Cup Size | Standard-sized ear cups | Slightly larger ear cups for better ear coverage |
Weight (without cable) | 320g | 336g |
Cable Type | Braided 3.5mm detachable cable + USB sound card | Braided 3.5mm detachable cable |
Cable Length | 1m main cable + 2m USB sound card cable | 1.3m main cable + 2m PC extension cable |
Controls | In-line volume and mic mute + USB sound card controls | In-line volume and mic mute |
Connectivity | 3.5mm audio jack + USB sound card | 3.5mm audio jack |
Compatibility | PC, PS4 (via USB), other platforms (via 3.5mm) | PC, PS5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Mobile |
Price | Check Cloud 2 Price | Check Cloud Alpha Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- Over-Ear, Closed-Back Design: Both headsets feature an over-ear, closed-back design, which helps isolate external noise and enhances in-game immersion by reducing sound leakage.
- Dynamic Drivers: Each model uses dynamic drivers that deliver rich bass, clear mids, and detailed treble, ensuring high-quality audio performance for gaming, music, and media consumption.
- Aluminum Frame Construction: Both headsets have a durable aluminum frame that provides structural strength while maintaining a lightweight build for extended gaming sessions.
- Memory Foam Ear Cushions: The ear cups on both models are padded with soft memory foam covered in leatherette, offering enhanced comfort and a snug fit for prolonged use.
- Detachable, Noise-Canceling Microphone: Each headset includes a detachable, unidirectional, noise-canceling microphone that minimizes background noise for clear voice communication during gaming or calls.
- 3.5mm Audio Jack Connectivity: Both models use a standard 3.5mm audio jack, making them compatible with a wide range of gaming consoles, PCs, mobile devices, and other audio sources without requiring adapters.
- In-Line Audio Controls: Each headset features in-line controls, including a volume wheel and a microphone mute switch, allowing for quick adjustments without pausing gameplay.
- Braided, Detachable Cable: Both headsets use a durable, braided cable that is detachable, reducing wear and tear while improving longevity and portability.
- Multi-Platform Compatibility: Both models work seamlessly with PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices, making them versatile options for gamers across different platforms.
- Stereo Sound Quality: Without additional software enhancements, both headsets deliver stereo sound, providing a balanced audio experience with clear directional cues for in-game awareness.
- Speaker Sensitivity (~98dB SPL/mW): Both headsets have similar speaker sensitivity levels, ensuring adequate loudness and consistent audio performance without requiring high-power amplification.
- Low Latency Wired Connection: Each model provides a wired connection, ensuring zero-latency audio transmission, which is crucial for competitive gaming where real-time audio feedback is essential.
- Padded Leatherette Headband: Both headsets feature a padded leatherette headband that provides additional comfort and reduces pressure on the head during long gaming sessions.
- Sturdy Build Quality: With reinforced structural components and high-quality materials, both models are built to withstand frequent use while maintaining their shape and functionality over time.
Common Features
Feature | Hyperx Cloud 2 | Hyperx Cloud Alpha |
Headphone Type | Over-ear, closed-back | Over-ear, closed-back |
Driver Type | Dynamic drivers | Dynamic drivers |
Construction Material | Aluminum frame with plastic casing | Aluminum frame with plastic casing |
Ear Cup Material | Memory foam with leatherette | Memory foam with leatherette |
Microphone Type | Detachable, noise-canceling, unidirectional | Detachable, noise-canceling, unidirectional |
Microphone Connection | 3.5mm detachable mic | 3.5mm detachable mic |
In-Line Controls | Volume wheel, microphone mute switch | Volume wheel, microphone mute switch |
Cable Type | Braided cable | Braided cable |
Cable Detachability | Detachable 3.5mm cable | Detachable 3.5mm cable |
Compatibility | Works with PC, PS4, Xbox, Nintendo Switch | Works with PC, PS4, Xbox, Nintendo Switch |
Headband Padding | Padded with soft leatherette | Padded with soft leatherette |
Surround Sound Support | Stereo sound without external software | Stereo sound without external software |
Speaker Sensitivity | ~98dB SPL/mW at 1kHz | ~98dB SPL/mW at 1kHz |
Audio Jack | Standard 3.5mm audio jack | Standard 3.5mm audio jack |
Gaming Performance | Low latency wired connection | Low latency wired connection |
Price | Check Cloud 2 Price | Check Cloud Alpha Price |
FAQ
What type of headset are the HyperX Cloud Alpha and Cloud 2? Do both headsets support surround sound? Are the HyperX Cloud Alpha and Cloud 2 compatible with all gaming platforms? Do the HyperX Cloud Alpha and Cloud 2 have a detachable microphone? Is there a difference in comfort between the Cloud Alpha and Cloud 2? What are the differences in audio drivers between the Cloud Alpha and Cloud 2? Do both headsets have in-line audio controls? Are the cables on both headsets detachable? Which headset is better for PC gaming? How does the microphone quality compare between the two headsets? Are both headsets durable? Do either of these headsets require software installation? Which headset has better sound isolation? Is there a big difference in weight between the two headsets? Which headset is the better choice overall? |