This is an archive article published on June 24, 2018
HyperX Cloud Stinger Core review: A great gaming headset on a tight budget
HyperX Cloud Stinger Core gaming headset tries to make a balance between audio quality and comfort, along with a reasonable price tag. Read our review.
HyperX Cloud Stinger Core is not particularly a high-end gaming headset, but it is worth a look. Read our detailed review.
The market for gaming headsets is a crowded one, especially if you look at the options available in the sub-Rs 5000 segment. This is by far the most popular gaming headset segments in India and Kingston’s new HyperX Cloud Stinger Core tries to make a balance between audio quality and comfort, along with a reasonable price tag. I’ve been testing the HyperX Cloud Stinger Core for a while, and here’s what I think about the gaming headset designed for console gamers.
HyperX Cloud Stinger Core review: Design and build
The Cloud Stinger Core is a simple looking gaming headset made of matte plastic. It has an all-black design and features huge, well-padded, ear cushions which rest on an adjustable steel frame that feels surprisingly sturdy. The large ear cups are big enough to fit over any size of ears – and yes, I didn’t face any comfort issues using it for long periods. Unfortunately, the headset can only lay flat and does not fold into a compact format. That makes them a hassle to carry when you don’t have a backpack and yes they do not come with a case or pouch.
The Cloud Stinger Core is a simple looking gaming headset made of matte plastic.
HyperX Cloud Stinger Core review: Controls and mic
This is not a wireless gaming headset, instead you will find a wire on each side of the ear cup – and yes, it is fixed in nature. A control unit is built right into the cable, comprising of a volume wheel and a small switch for muting or enabling the microphone. I wish the mic was removable. Yes, it is annoying at times when you’re listening to music or watching movies. That’s why I really like headsets with detachable mics.
HyperX Cloud Stinger Core review: Microphone and audio quality
The mic is perfect for a game chat or otherwise. During my testing, my voice came through pretty clearly, according to one of my friends. The microphone proved handy as it effectively reduces the amount of distortion in sounds.
I’ve used the headset in a variety of settings. I used the headset with the PlayStation 4 for both gaming and movies. I also used the headset with my iPhone 5c and Nintendo Switch. In all cases, the sound quality is acceptable if not that great. Don’t get me wrong they sound nice and should be perfect for gaming.
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This is not a wireless gaming headset, instead you will find a wire on each side of the ear cup.
HyperX Cloud Stinger Core review: Conclusion
Although the HyperX Cloud Stinger Core gaming headset is priced at Rs 4200, you can find it for as low as Rs 2999 on Amazon India and Flipkart. HyperX Cloud Stinger Core is not particularly a high-end gaming headset, but it is worth a look. The headset takes care of the audio quality, comfort, and price.
Anuj Bhatia is a seasoned personal technology writer at indianexpress.com with a career spanning over a decade. Active in the domain since 2011, he has established himself as a distinct voice in tech journalism, specializing in long-form narratives that bridge the gap between complex innovation and consumer lifestyle.
Experience & Career: Anuj has been a key contributor to The Indian Express since late 2016. Prior to his current tenure, he served as a Senior Tech Writer at My Mobile magazine and held a role as a reviewer and tech writer at Gizbot. His professional trajectory reflects a rigorous commitment to technology reporting, backed by a postgraduate degree from Banaras Hindu University.
Expertise & Focus Areas: Anuj’s reporting covers the spectrum of personal technology, characterized by a unique blend of modern analysis and historical context. His key focus areas include:
Core Technology: Comprehensive coverage of smartphones, personal computers, apps, and lifestyle tech.
Deep-Dive Narratives: Specializes in composing longer-form feature articles and explainers that explore the intersection of history, technology, and popular culture.
Global & Local Scope: Reports extensively on major international product launches from industry titans like Apple and Google, while simultaneously covering the ecosystem of indie and home-grown tech startups.
Niche Interests: A dedicated focus on vintage technology and retro gaming, offering readers a nostalgic yet analytical perspective on the evolution of tech.
Authoritativeness & Trust
Anuj is a trusted voice in the industry, recognized for his ability to de-jargonize trending topics and provide context to rapid technological advancements. His authority is reinforced by his on-ground presence at major international tech conferences and his nuanced approach to product reviews. By balancing coverage of the world's most valuable tech brands with emerging startups, he offers a holistic and objective view of the global technology landscape.
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