HyperX Cloud Alpha
Score: 78/100
PDP LVL40 Airlite
Score: 71/100Rankings
The HyperX Cloud Alpha is a wired over-ear headset praised for its solid build and balanced audio thanks to dual-chamber 50 mm drivers. Its main trade-offs are the lack of wireless freedom and active noise cancellation. Ideal for gamers who value comfort and reliable wired performance across multiple platforms.
The PDP Gaming LVL40 Airlite is a lightweight, wired headset featuring 40 mm drivers and a flip-to-mute noise-cancelling microphone, providing solid stereo sound for Nintendo Switch and other devices. Its lack of active noise cancellation and surround sound, along with an on-ear design that can cause fatigue, limit its appeal for longer sessions. Ideal for budget-friendly Switch gamers needing a simple, portable solution.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
50 mmbest | 40 mm | |
| ↓ lower better | 298 g | 100 gbest |
65 Ωbest | — | |
98 dBbest | — | |
-43 dBbest | — | |
2 years | 5 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(3) | ||
Driver Size (mm) | 50 mm | 40 mm |
Frequency Response (Hz) | 13-27000 Hz | 20-20000 Hz |
Microphone Type | Electret condenser | bi-directional |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Connection Type | Wired 3.5mm | Wired |
Compatibility | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Mobile | Nintendo Switch family, PC, mobile devices, Wii, 3DS, tablets, iPad, Mac, VR |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 298 g | 100 g |
Ear Cushion Material | Memory foam, leatherette | Breathable ultra-plush noise-isolating foam |
Features(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 2 years | 5 years |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consistently commend the Cloud Alpha for its solid build quality, low distortion drivers, and superior comfort, noting that the aluminum frame and memory-foam cushions enable long gaming sessions without fatigue while delivering clear, balanced audio across a wide frequency range.
Everyday users echo the professional praise, frequently highlighting the headset's legendary comfort, immersive bass, and rugged durability, while appreciating its seamless compatibility with multiple platforms; no major complaints are evident beyond the inherent limitations of a wired design.
“legendary comfort - no head fatigue after hours”
“"comfort from over/on-ear cushions and mic clarity for competitive play, but sound is basic-not comparable to $100+ headsets-and mic feels distant"”
Professional reviewers view the LVL40 Airlite as a solid, budget-friendly option that fulfills the basic needs of Switch gamers with decent stereo sound and a clear mic, but they note its audio lacks the refinement of more expensive models and it misses premium features like ANC and surround sound.
Everyday users generally like the headset's light weight and comfort, as well as its mic clarity for multiplayer chat, but they commonly criticize the basic audio performance and the on-ear design's potential for ear fatigue.
