Hyperx Cloud Alpha Vs Alpha S – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Hyperx Cloud Alpha & Hyperx Cloud Alpha S share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Hyperx Cloud Alpha S rather than the Hyperx Cloud Alpha. 

Why Do I Recommend The Hyperx Cloud Alpha S

  • The HyperX Cloud Alpha S features virtual 7.1 surround sound for an immersive gaming experience, enhancing spatial awareness and directional audio clarity compared to the stereo-only Cloud Alpha.
  • HyperX Cloud Alpha S includes adjustable bass sliders to customize low-frequency levels for deeper, more dynamic sound compared to the fixed bass response of the Cloud Alpha.
  • It comes with a USB in-line sound card for providing enhanced audio processing, noise reduction, and advanced customization options, while the Cloud Alpha relies on standard analog output.
  • The HyperX Cloud Alpha S supports HyperX NGENUITY software to enable personalized audio settings, EQ adjustments, and surround sound control, whereas the Cloud Alpha lacks software support.
  • HyperX Cloud Alpha S includes an advanced in-line audio control box with a 7.1 toggle, volume control, and mic mute switch for on-the-fly adjustments, compared to the basic inline controls of Cloud Alpha.
  • It has USB sound card enhancements for delivering clearer voice communication with better noise filtering compared to the Cloud Alpha’s standard 3.5mm mic output.
  • The HyperX Cloud Alpha S has both USB and 3.5mm connectivity options for providing more versatility for PC and PlayStation, whereas the Cloud Alpha only supports 3.5mm analog connections.

Maybe the Hyperx Cloud Alpha price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Hyperx Cloud Alpha S. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureHyperx Cloud Alpha SHyperx Cloud Alpha
Surround SoundYesNo
Bass AdjustmentYesNo
Sound CardYesNo
Audio Control BoxYesNo
Connection TypeUSB + 3.5mm jack3.5mm jack only
Cable TypeDetachable braided USB + 3.5mm cableDetachable braided 3.5mm cable
Software SupportYesNo
Weight (Without Cable)310g336g
Weight (With Cable & Sound Card)~321g~350g
Earcup DesignSame aluminum frame with added bass adjustment slidersStandard aluminum frame with memory foam
Speaker DriversCustom-tuned 50mm with additional bass controlCustom-tuned 50mm
MicrophoneDetachable, noise-canceling mic with sound card tuningDetachable, noise-canceling mic
Microphone Sensitivity-38dBV (±3dB)-43dBV (±3dB)
Primary Use CaseGaming with 7.1 surround sound, bass controlStereo gaming, music
PriceCheck Alpha S PriceCheck Cloud Alpha Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Build Quality: Both headsets feature a durable aluminum frame, ensuring a sturdy and long-lasting design suitable for extended gaming use.
  • Earcup Material: Each model is equipped with memory foam ear cushions covered in leatherette, providing comfort and passive noise isolation during prolonged sessions.
  • Speaker Drivers: Both headsets utilize 50mm Dual Chamber Drivers, designed to separate bass from mids and highs, resulting in clear and precise audio with minimal distortion.
  • Frequency Response: Each model has a frequency range of 13Hz – 27kHz, allowing for a broad spectrum of sound reproduction, from deep bass to crisp highs.
  • Impedance: Both headsets have an impedance of 65 Ω, ensuring compatibility with various devices without the need for an amplifier.
  • Microphone Type: Each model includes a detachable, noise-canceling, flexible boom microphone, providing clear voice communication by filtering out background noise.
  • Gaming Audio Performance: Both headsets deliver immersive stereo sound with accurate positional audio, making them ideal for competitive gaming and general entertainment.
  • Comfort & Weight Distribution: Each model features a soft-padded leatherette headband and a lightweight design, reducing pressure on the head for extended comfort.
  • Detachable Cable: Both headsets come with a detachable, braided cable, offering durability and easy replacement in case of damage.
  • Inline Volume & Mute Controls: Each model includes built-in volume and microphone mute controls, allowing users to adjust settings on the fly without accessing software.
  • 3.5mm Connectivity: Both headsets support a 3.5mm connection, ensuring broad compatibility with PCs, gaming consoles, mobile devices, and other audio sources.
  • Passive Noise Isolation: Each model’s closed-back earcup design helps block out external noise, enhancing focus and audio clarity without requiring active noise cancellation.
  • Multi-Platform Compatibility: Both headsets are designed for versatile use, making them suitable for PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and mobile gaming.

Common Features

FeatureHyperx Cloud Alpha SHyperx Cloud Alpha
Build QualityAluminum frame, durable constructionAluminum frame, durable construction
Earcup MaterialMemory foam with leatherette coveringMemory foam with leatherette covering
Speaker Drivers50mm Dual Chamber Drivers50mm Dual Chamber Drivers
Frequency Response13Hz – 27kHz13Hz – 27kHz
Impedance65 Ω65 Ω
Microphone TypeDetachable, noise-canceling, flexible boom micDetachable, noise-canceling, flexible boom mic
Microphone Frequency Response50Hz – 18kHz50Hz – 18kHz
Audio PerformanceHigh-quality stereo sound with deep bass and clear midsHigh-quality stereo sound with deep bass and clear mids
Comfort LevelLightweight, well-padded headband and earcupsLightweight, well-padded headband and earcups
Headband PaddingSoft padded leatheretteSoft padded leatherette
Detachable CableYesYes
Inline Volume & Mute ControlYesYes
3.5mm ConnectivityYesYes
Gaming PerformanceDesigned for immersive gaming with precise audio cuesDesigned for immersive gaming with precise audio cues
Price Check Alpha S Price Check Cloud Alpha Price

FAQ

What is the difference between HyperX Cloud Alpha and HyperX Cloud Alpha S?
The HyperX Cloud Alpha S adds virtual 7.1 surround sound, bass adjustment sliders, and an in-line USB sound card for more advanced audio customization. The Cloud Alpha is a standard stereo gaming headset without these features.

Does the HyperX Cloud Alpha S have better sound quality than the Cloud Alpha?
Both headsets feature the same 50mm Dual Chamber Drivers, ensuring high-quality sound. However, the Cloud Alpha S offers virtual 7.1 surround sound and bass adjustment sliders, which can enhance the audio experience depending on user preference.

Is the HyperX Cloud Alpha S worth the extra cost over the Cloud Alpha?
The Cloud Alpha S is worth the extra cost if you want virtual 7.1 surround sound, customizable bass levels, and a USB sound card for audio enhancements. If you only need a high-quality stereo headset, the Cloud Alpha provides great value at a lower price.

Can I use the HyperX Cloud Alpha S without the USB sound card?
Yes, the HyperX Cloud Alpha S can be used with a standard 3.5mm connection without the USB sound card. However, doing so will disable virtual 7.1 surround sound and the in-line audio controls.

Do both headsets have a detachable microphone?
Yes, both the HyperX Cloud Alpha and Cloud Alpha S come with a detachable, noise-canceling, flexible boom microphone for clear voice communication.

Are the ear cushions on both headsets the same?
Yes, both headsets use memory foam ear cushions covered with leatherette, providing a comfortable fit and passive noise isolation.

Which headset is better for console gaming?
The HyperX Cloud Alpha is the better option for console gaming because it works with a simple 3.5mm connection across all platforms. The Cloud Alpha S requires USB for full functionality, which limits its features on consoles like Xbox and Nintendo Switch.

Does the HyperX Cloud Alpha S have active noise cancellation?
No, neither the Cloud Alpha nor the Cloud Alpha S have active noise cancellation (ANC). They rely on a closed-back design and memory foam earcups for passive noise isolation.

Is the HyperX Cloud Alpha S heavier than the Cloud Alpha?
No, the Cloud Alpha S is actually slightly lighter at 310g compared to the Cloud Alpha’s 336g, making it a bit more comfortable for long gaming sessions.

Can I replace the cable if it gets damaged?
Yes, both headsets have a detachable, braided cable that can be replaced if needed. This helps extend the lifespan of the headset.

Is there a big difference in microphone quality between the two headsets?
Both headsets use the same detachable, noise-canceling microphone, but the Cloud Alpha S benefits from the USB sound card, which can slightly improve mic clarity by reducing background noise.

Does the HyperX Cloud Alpha S work with HyperX NGENUITY software?
Yes, the Cloud Alpha S is compatible with HyperX NGENUITY software, allowing users to customize their sound settings. The Cloud Alpha does not have software support.

Which headset is better for competitive gaming?
The Cloud Alpha S is better for competitive gaming due to its virtual 7.1 surround sound, which provides better spatial awareness in games. However, the Cloud Alpha still delivers excellent stereo sound for precise audio cues.

Can I use either headset for music and movies?
Yes, both headsets provide excellent sound quality for music and movies. The Cloud Alpha S has additional bass control, making it slightly more customizable for different types of audio.

Do both headsets support wireless connectivity?
No, both the HyperX Cloud Alpha and Cloud Alpha S are wired-only headsets and do not support Bluetooth or any wireless functionality.

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