HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 Core Gaming Headset Review

If you're on a budget, the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 Core is a respectable entry into proper gaming headsets.

It’s been so long since we’ve tried out HyperX’s first iteration of the Cloud Stinger – a gaming headset that delivered excellent value with its superb performance and featherlight comfort. That was a $50 gaming headset during its time, and up to this date still is a great option for anyone looking to get into a proper audio solution without breaking the bank. Now, the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 was launched last year, and with that, HyperX quietly launched a Core version of it after, and that's what we're going to look at today.

Technical Specifications

Form Factor	Over ear, circumaural, closed back
Color	Black
Frame Type	Plastic
Drivers	Dynamic, 40mm with neodymium magnets
Connection	3.5mm cable; splitter included
Frequency Response	10 Hz – 25 kHz
Sensitivity	-40.5 dBV (1 V/Pa at 1 kHz)
Ear Cushions	Soft foam & fabric
Price and Warranty	$39.99 (Php2,250) with 2-year warranty

UNBOXING

HyperX is maintaining its signature white-red design for its packaging here. All the key features are printed around the box to give you enough information about what you’re getting (but let’s be honest, you’ll probably check reviews first anyways if you’re reading this already). 

Once you open the packaging, you’ll be met with the Cloud Stinger 2 Core itself encased in plastic together with a cable splitter, microphone foam, and some paperwork, with one specifically for activating DTS Headphone: X spatial audio.

DTS Headphone: X 2-Year Activation Key

No cases here unfortunately (HyperX does have the optional bundle for getting it bundled with a mesh bag for $5.99, but we're not sure if that's available here locally). In this regard, it would probably be nice for HyperX to include some sort of hanger, puck, or anything as a bonus. It’s a big ask, I know. But that will likely widen the gap with the competition if it does happen. So, HyperX, if you’re listening. A headset hanger please. That would be really great.

DESIGN

The Cloud Stinger 2 Core looks to keep the design of the Cloud Stinger 2 here, albeit with some distinct changes. There's no cutout at the top of the earcups to see the length of the protrusion, not a big deal since who measures them anyway. It also uses soft foam and fabric as opposed to the Cloud Stinger 2's memory foam and leatherette. We'll get more into that in a bit.

The microphone is also flexible, so you’ll have more freedom with it when you’re adjusting it for best fit. If there's something to nitpick about, it's the fact that it isn't detachable, and instead of a dedicated mute button, you'll have to flip it up until you hear a click if you want to mute it.

There are some concerns about the structure, however. The Cloud Stinger 2 Core's frame is all plastic construction. While this does contribute to how lightweight it is, some reinforcement on its structure would have been nice. It also doesn’t swivel 90-degrees to make the earcups rest below your neck, but it does have some swivel for comfort. The headband’s and the earcups’ foams do feel great and doesn’t get hot over time, so it has that going for it. 

There’s a volume wheel at the right earcup, and to note, it’s for the headset itself, not a volume control for Windows. The red paint on the volume wheel accentuates its design, and it looks pretty nice.

USER EXPERIENCE

Now, we previously touched on the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 Core's design and comfort, and I'd like to drive that point further by saying that it is one of its key strengths. For those that prefer comfort without the compromise on performance, the Cloud Stinger 2 Core keeps it pretty balanced. Now, the plastic construction, while it could be better, also translates to a more lightweight build. Clamping force isn't too hard either.

For gaming, it's pretty decent on first person shooters like Overwatch 2, and it's great with atmospheric titles like Resident Evil Village and SOMA.

As for the microphone, here's a sample:

teamhex · HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 Core Gaming Headset Microphone Test

Now, when it comes to the audio entertainment experience, the Cloud Stinger 2 Core isn't necessarily one of the loudest headphones you'll likely go through over. Granted, not everyone pushes the volume to the maximum, but it does lack in that department. The bass lacks some punch too, but overall sound is crisp and clear.

It's a treat to listen to vocal heavy tracks like Nier Automata's OSTs, as well as other tracks with emphasis on the vocals. DTS: Headphone X spatial audio is there, which you can try if you want to step up your listening experience further.

CONCLUSION

So, here we are. HyperX's $39.99 (Php2,225 on Lazada) asking price for the Cloud Stinger 2 Core is pretty reasonable considering what it has to offer. It's a decent gaming headset that performs quite well. Sure, you'd likely prefer something with a more rigid construction and all that jazz, but that would also pull away from its draw - exceptional comfort all thanks to its lightweight material and cozy foam and fabric material. DTS Headphone: X also does an impressive job in virtualizing sound, so that's an extra you'll likely take advantage of. 

Now, in this price range, it's understandable that most people who go for this instead of its more expensive counterparts probably aren't considering purchasing a standalone microphone in the near future. But then again, the option to have a detachable microphone here would be preferable. RGB, or lack thereof, isn't an issue here because you know, that boils down to personal preference anyways.

Other than that, it's really hard to nitpick a $39.99 gaming headset if you know what you're getting into. And for the price, the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 Core is a respectable gaming headset that delivers awesome value for your money. It's a great starter if you're not looking to break the bank.