These aren't surround sound headsets like some of the pricier offerings from competitors; the CloudX only has stereo sound, meaning if you're heavily into your first-person shooters like Call of Duty or Apex Legends, then these may not be the best fit for you.Stereo can offer some positional awareness, of course. But it wasn't enough to accurately pinpoint where a particular sound was coming from.You can elevate this aspect of the headset using a software surround solution, such as Windows Sonic on PC or Xbox, or the arguably superior Dolby Atmos solution — the latter comes with a fee though, sadly. One thing it does do well is within the noise cancellation. The CloudX does a fantastic job at keeping outside noise out of your microphone, which your friends will be grateful for, especially if you are around a particularly busy household. Now, as soon as you put the CloudX onto your head, you will notice just how lightweight it is, making it extremely comfortable during long gaming sessions. This is where the "CloudX" ultimately earns its namesake. I can't tell you the number of times I have had to remove other headsets because my ears are hurting after a few short hours. But, these seemed to fit well, with minimal discomfort.

No onboard surround sound, only stereo, or software surround via Windows Sonic or Dolby Atmos (activated separately). Over the years since the HyperX CloudX's release, it really hasn't changed much — if at all. This isn't bad, though; if it's not broken, don't fix it, right? It is kitted out with an aluminum frame that's both sturdy and flexible, 100% memory foam earcups that are light and fluffy, and a 3.5mm braided cable that won't get tangled every chance it gets.Comfy ear cups and great sound make this one of the best affordable gaming headsets out there. (Image credit: Chelsea Beardsmore/Windows Central) Coming as standard with 53mm drivers and enhanced bass reproduction, the CloudX's isn't at all bad. You've got to remember that these aren't high-end gaming headsets, so you can't expect the sound quality to be anywhere close to that. But, for what you pay, you're getting as good sound as is possible at this price range. Indeed, this is arguably the best "entry-level" gaming headset in terms of sound reproduction. An aluminum frame and memory foam earcups help to make this one of the comfiest mid-range headsets out there. You will rarely get studio-quality mics on gaming headsets, even on the most expensive offerings, and that's fine. Ultimately, they do what they're supposed to. That's how I feel about the HyperX CloudX; it does what it should at an adequate level. You won't want to use it to record any audio, but why would you?