HyperX Cloud III Wireless: An Upgrade Worth Considering
HyperX’s Cloud Alpha Wireless headphones received a near-perfect score of 10/10 from us, thanks to its exceptional battery life and overall performance. Now, HyperX is back with the Cloud III Wireless, offering some new and exciting features that are sure to appeal to a wide range of customers.
Familiar Design with Subtle Enhancements
The Cloud III Wireless retains the sleek and comfortable design of its predecessor, the Alpha. With its sturdy yet flexible aluminum frame, comfortable ear cups, and stylish red accents, it’s easy to see why the design remains largely unchanged. However, the Cloud III Wireless now offers an all-black option for those who prefer a more minimalist look. Additionally, there are a few subtle but important upgrades.
The most notable change is the switch to a USB-C wireless dongle, which comes with a USB-A adapter. This transition allows for a wider range of connectivity options. While the Alpha primarily catered to PC and PlayStation gaming with its impressive 300-hour battery life, the Cloud III Wireless expands compatibility to devices like phones, tablets, and even the Nintendo Switch. The reduced battery life of 120 hours is still remarkable, and the addition of more versatile connectivity makes up for this slight trade-off. Plus, the Cloud III Wireless comes with a lower price tag, making it even more appealing.
More Connectivity Choices with a Minor Drawback
HyperX’s achievement of over 300 hours of battery life in the Cloud Alpha raised eyebrows and inspired iFixit to investigate further. They speculated that HyperX achieved this impressive battery life by using efficient chips and eliminating power-hungry features like active noise cancellation and standard Bluetooth connectivity.
The Cloud Alpha’s limitations in connectivity options were apparent, as it was not compatible with devices other than PCs or PlayStation consoles. However, the Cloud III Wireless addresses this issue to some extent. The inclusion of a USB-C dongle with a USB-A attachment allows for wireless connection to phones, tablets, and handheld gaming consoles such as the Nintendo Switch. While this additional connectivity option is welcome, it’s important to note that using the USB-C dongle on the Switch prevents simultaneous playing and charging.
Audio Quality and Performance
When it comes to headphones, sound quality is paramount, and the Cloud III Wireless holds up well in this department. However, it falls slightly short compared to its sibling, the Cloud Alpha. The Cloud Alpha’s audio performance was exceptional for its price range, and the Cloud III Wireless, at a lower price point, doesn’t quite match its richness.
The bass on the Cloud III Wireless is not as deep as one might prefer, but it remains clear and satisfactory. During several hours of gaming, the slight difference in sound quality became less noticeable as I grew accustomed to it. If I hadn’t experienced the superior sound on the Cloud Alpha, I might not have even noticed the disparity.
On the bright side, the wireless range of the Cloud III Wireless proves to be as impressive as other HyperX models. I was able to move around freely without any interruption in the connection, even when I ventured away from my gaming PC.
In conclusion, the HyperX Cloud III Wireless offers a worthwhile upgrade for those seeking a reliable and versatile gaming headset. With its appealing design, expanded connectivity options, and commendable battery life, it proves to be a valuable addition to HyperX’s lineup. While the audio quality may not match that of its predecessor, the Cloud III Wireless still delivers a satisfactory gaming experience at a more affordable price.