Razer Kraken
Score: 78/100
HyperX Cloud II
Score: 87/100Rankings
The HyperX Cloud II (2022) is a wired headset with 53 mm drivers, hardware-driven 7.1 virtual surround, and a durable aluminum frame. It excels in comfort and build quality, offering broad platform support, but lacks ANC and is bulkier than some competitors.
The 2019 Razer Kraken is a wired over-ear headset with a sturdy aluminum frame, 50 mm drivers and a retractable cardioid mic. It offers solid comfort and immersive 7.1 surround on Windows, but lacks ANC, has a bass-heavy signature and a non-detachable cable.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
50 mm | 53 mmbest | |
20 Hzbest | 10 Hz | |
20,000 Hz | 23,000 Hzbest | |
— | 98 dBbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 321 gbest | 330 g |
| ↓ lower better | — | 60 ohmsbest |
— | -42 dBbest | |
— | 50 Hzbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(3) | ||
Driver Size (mm) | 50 mm | 53 mm |
Frequency Response (Low) (Hz) | 20 Hz | 10 Hz |
Frequency Response (High) (Hz) | 20000 Hz | 23000 Hz |
Microphone(1) | ||
Microphone Type | Retractable cardioid | Electret condenser |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Cable Length (m) | 1.3 m | 1 m |
Supported Platforms | PC,Mac,PlayStation 4,PlayStation 5,Xbox One,Xbox Series X & S,Nintendo Switch,Mobile devices | PC,Mac,PS4,PS5,Xbox One,Xbox Series X|S,Nintendo Switch,Mobile |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 321 g | 330 g |
Headband Material | Bauxite aluminum | Padded with memory foam and leatherette |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Kraken's comfort, sturdy aluminum construction and immersive audio, however note the bass-heavy tuning and software quirks.
Everyday users love the headset's comfort, durability and the punchy sound of the large drivers, but complain about excessive bass, software hiccups and the non-detachable cable.
Professional reviewers from PCMag and WhatGeek awarded the Cloud II Editors' Choice, highlighting its comfort, solid aluminum build, and hardware-driven 7.1 surround as key advantages over software-based solutions. They note the headset delivers rich bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, making it versatile for gaming, music, and movies.
Everyday users consistently commend the headset's comfort, durability, and microphone clarity, often reporting years of reliable use without degradation. Praise centers on lack of ear fatigue and effective passive isolation, while complaints involve the mic's Windows default issue, initial tightness, non-detachable USB cable, and heat buildup in the leatherette cushions.
“The hardware in the Krakens is excellent... My husband loves these phones (and I do, too!)”
“These phones should not be offered sans the THX Spatial Audio-it's kind of baffling that they are.”
“the most comfortable I've ever worn”
