HyperX Cloud Alpha S review: the dark mode of PC gaming headsets

HyperX has added a new color variant to its lineup of Cloud Alpha S gaming headsets. It’s called “blackout” and, as you’d probably expect, every single detail around the headset is pure black. A new color option usually isn’t too big of a deal, but the result here is a headset ideally suited for a minimalist, of which there aren’t many on the market. It doesn’t really stand out at all, and that’s what makes it look so good.

The headphones still have the HyperX branding on the side of the ear cups and atop the textured headband. But it’s subtle and almost undetectable in most lighting conditions. Everything else, from the stitching on the headband to the braided cable and the side arms that hold the ear cups, is coated in a deep black color. On top of these design adjustments, you’re getting the same great headset that HyperX released in late 2019.

We missed our chance to review this model when it originally released, so we’re seizing the opportunity to dive into it now that this new color option has come out. It comes with two sets of replaceable ear pads: one set that’s plush with a leather-like coating for better noise isolation and another that’s more breathable but with hardly any noise isolation at all. I opted for the breathable pads, but regardless, this is a comfortable headset to wear for hours on end. I have a large head, and I’m always delighted when a product manages to avoid clamping down too hard around my dome.

The weight distribution is excellent, and no part of the headset feels like it’s resting too hard on my head or sitting awkwardly on my ears. This headset is designed with a PC in mind. The headset connects via USB and has clip-on inline controls that let you turn on the virtual 7. 1 surround sound mode, mute the mic, and adjust the volume, as well as fine-tune the volume mix between voice chat and your game.

If you’d rather have more game audio than chat, just tap the button with the controller icon a few times. While these features only work with a PC, the headset attaches to its inline controls via a 3. 5mm jack that you can easily detach and connect to, say, a PS4 or Xbox One controller.

“If you sit close enough to your TV, this headset also works (along with the virtual 7.”