Budget gamers only want three things when purchasing a gaming headset – comfort, audio quality, and a decent microphone.
Today’s contender for the budget segment is from the popular HyperX Cloud lineup – the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2, a wired gaming headset retailing for only RM219.
Table of Contents
HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 – Specifications
| Model Name | HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 |
| Driver Type | 50mm neodymium dynamic driver |
| Headphones Frequency Response | 10 Hz – 28 kHz |
| Microphone Pick-up Pattern | Bi-directional, noise cancelling |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Ear Cushion | Memory foam and premium leatherette |
| Weight | 270g |
| Cable Length | 2m |
What’s in the Box?
- HyperX Cloud Stinger 2
- Y splitter cable
- Foam wind screen
- User guide
- Warranty card
- DTS Headphones:X instruction card
Design
While the Cloud Stinger 2’s design is rather basic, it does have some elements that break up the monotony. For instance, each earcup has textured lines along with an embossed HyperX logo. The headband also received this treatment, but with a debossed logo instead.
The headset is largely made out of plastic in a matte finish. While it does not feel premium, it feels solidly built without any creaks found on cheap plastics. The headband and earcups are lined soft leatherette cushioning.
Each earcup can be swiveled to fold flat for easy storage. Underneath the right earcup is a volume adjustment wheel, while the boom mic is located at the left earcup.
The cable is quite long, coming at 2 meters. You do get a short Y splitter just in case your PC does not have a headset combo jack, which is a nice touch.
Compatibility
The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 is compatible with a variety of devices, thanks to the 4-pole headphone design. Officially it works on PC, Xbox Series, PlayStation 5 and mobile; though you might need a USB Type-C/ Lightning adapter for certain mobile devices.
Comfort
The Cloud Stinger 2 only weights about 270g, making it feel lightweight to wear. The cushioning, while a bit thin, does provide some levels of comfort. There headbands also provide lots of size adjustment and does not clamp as hard as some headsets with steel headbands. I find it more suitable for couch or desktop gaming, as it is prone to falling off with moderate movement.
Overall, it feels reasonably comfortable even for long hours of gaming. If you want more cushioning on your ears, there are a lot of third party earcups for the HyperX Cloud series to choose from online, a testament to how popular the Cloud series has become.
Audio Quality
The headset has a V-shaped audio signature. The headset does a decent job at reproducing gunshots and rumbles, but may come off as a bit lacking when it comes to the subwoofer range. Midrange is more laidback and vocals sounds clear and warm. Treble performance is alright, though it is slightly under-presented.
I think the imaging could be better, granted I was able to pinpoint the general location of footsteps while gaming, but the soundstage is a bit narrow. There is however an activation code for 2 years of DTS Headphones:X, which allows you to enjoy spatial audio on the headset. It improves the imaging and sound staging on certain games, while it may sound artificial on others.
Noise Isolation
The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 does not have ANC, instead it relies on padding and cushioning to reduce background noise. While wearing the headphones, it does a pretty decent job at isolating background sound. Yes, they are still audible, but once I had a game on, the audio complete drowns out my surroundings.
Microphone
The microphone is quite decent for the price. It is a swiveling boom mic that automatically turns off when stowed away. Sound quality is quite good, as my party could easily hear me while gaming.
It has above average noise cancelling as well, capable of cancelling most background noises without muffling my voice. It also comes with an included microphone foam windscreen to minimise wind noise and plosive sounds.
Final Verdict
3.5 / 5The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 offers all the essentials a budget gamer would need for an enjoyable audio experience.
While the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 does not exceed our expectations, it is still a capable gaming headset nailing on the essentials. It is however, competing in a crowded segment, and there are tons of alternatives at a similar price point. But, if you are on a budget and want a headset that offers all the essentials, the Cloud Stinger 2 should at least be in your consideration.
To learn more about the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2, please visit the official product page here.
