HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Review

The Cloud Stinger Core sits at the entry level of HyperX’s Cloud Stinger line, and it is the first model from that series we have looked at here. Its main selling point is reach across platforms: it works on PC, PS4, and Switch. A 1.3-meter main cable pairs with a 1.7-meter extension cable to cover the distance between a seat and a television. Both cables are plastic rather than braided.

Volume control and mic mute sit on the cable, a little far down its length. The body is hard plastic and feels solid, and the headset is noticeably smaller than the larger Cloud models. That smaller frame is a mixed blessing: even with the adjustable steel headband, it does not sit comfortably on larger heads and can squeeze rather than fit. The fabric cushions covering the 40mm drivers felt slightly irritating, and there is no memory foam, which is reasonable at this price. At 275 grams, it is not especially light.

Features of HyperX Cloud Stinger Core

Despite the closed-back design, the fabric ear cushions let sound leak both in and out. As a gaming headset, it is not suited to listening in public spaces even though it can be used there.

With a 20Hz–20KHz frequency range, game performance lands where an entry-level headset should. The cable volume button is handy, and long sessions stay comfortable. Music is the weak spot: bass is heavy but muddy, and treble is inconsistent from one song to the next. For a headset built for gaming at this tier, that is expected rather than a real fault.

For a slightly more expensive option, see our Anker Soundcore Strike 3 Review: https://www.techblimp.com/2020/09/09/anker-soundcore-strike-3-review/

The boom microphone was the standout in our testing. It carried clear voice across the field, muted cleanly, and held up well across several Zoom calls. Its limitations: it cannot be removed, and there is no sound or light to indicate when mute is active.

The Cloud Stinger Core fits someone who wants a multi-platform gaming headset at the entry level, with a strong microphone and solid game audio. It is a poor match for large heads, for music listening, and for anyone needing quiet isolation.