HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Wireless + 7.1 Gaming Headset Review

How Much Does it Cost?

The HyperX headset range certainly has a little of something for every budget. The HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Wireless + 7.1 Gaming Headset is the top model for around £79.99, but the most affordable one will cost you as little as £30! That’s a good range of prices, features, and hardware. Wired, wireless, multiformat, they have something for everyone. Personally, I think £80 is a bit of a bargain for a wireless surround headset. It lacks some ergonomic features and the microphone is hard-wired, but at this price, I can let those “issues” slide.

Overview

There are a LOT of great headsets for around the same price as the HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Wireless + 7.1, but when it comes to wireless models that also feature 7.1 surround processing, you’re going to run out of options under £100 quite quickly. HyperX has done a great job of keeping the price low on this model and I do think that’ll be its biggest appeal.

Build Quality

It’s honestly pretty good, but it’s not class-leading. I think models such as the Turtle Beach Elite Wireless or the Arctis series from SteelSeries feel better made. There’s a lot of plastic on this headset (and it rivals too actually), but it’s all nicely put together, it feels plenty durable, and it’s nicely finished. However, it’s on-par for the price range and the (subjectively) better-made rivals are £30-40 more expensive.

They’ve done the basics right though, with USB Type C to keep the whole thing modern. The battery life is great and more than enough to last a day’s worth of heavy gaming. There’s a metal headband on the interior to keep it durable, plus quality memory foam on the ear cups and headband.

Performance

The 40mm drives on this headset pack plenty of punch. That’s not an easy task for a wireless headset, as all of the amplification has to come from the headset its self, rather than the power from an auxiliary source. They’ve got a big max volume, a good low-end thump, and plenty of detail to the mid and high range on the EQ. It’s not the most refined and balanced sound ever, it’s a little EQ’d towards being a more gaming and chat friendly headset, but it still sounds great for movies and music too. The addition of the 7.1 processing and a decent microphone make it a welcome addition to any PC gaming setup.

Should I Buy One?

It’s an interesting headset, but it comes with some interesting choices too. Can you get a better sounding headset for the same money, perhaps. But can you can one that’s also wireless and with surround features for the same money? Not likely. It’s a good £30-40 cheaper than the next rival, and it sounds just as good as they do too. For those wanting a lot of features on a tighter budget, the HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Wireless + 7.1 is a great deal.