What you need to do before plugging in your HyperX Cloud 2

The HyperX Cloud 2 is a wired gaming headset that works with PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. It connects through a 3.5mm audio jack — the same size plug used on older phones and car stereos — so you do not need to install software or create an account. Unbox the headset, locate the audio cable in the box, plug it into your device's headphone jack, and it works when ready.

The headset comes with a USB sound card adapter in the box. This adapter is optional — you can use the headset without it — but it gives you volume and microphone controls that sit on a desk rather than on the headset cable itself. If you want those controls, you will plug the USB adapter into your computer instead of the headphone jack.

Before you plug anything in, check what device you are connecting to and what ports it has. A PC or Mac with a headphone jack needs only the audio cable. A PlayStation 4 or 5 needs the audio cable. An Xbox Series X or S needs the audio cable. A Nintendo Switch in handheld mode needs the audio cable. If you are using the USB adapter for desktop controls, you need a USB port on a PC or Mac — consoles do not support the USB adapter.

Key Takeaways

  • The HyperX Cloud 2 plugs into any device with a 3.5mm headphone jack and works without software installation.
  • The USB sound card adapter in the box is optional and only works with PC or Mac, not with gaming consoles.
  • If you use the USB adapter, plug it into a USB port on your computer and connect the headset cable to the adapter instead of your device.
  • The microphone boom can be removed by twisting it counterclockwise, and you can mute it by pushing the boom upward until you hear a click.

Connecting the headset with just the audio cable

Locate the 3.5mm audio cable in the HyperX Cloud 2 box. This cable has a single plug on one end and a headphone jack on the other. The plug is the same size as a phone headphone jack and fits into the headphone port on your device.

On a PC or Mac, the headphone port is usually on the back of the tower or on the side of a laptop. On a PlayStation, it is on the front of the console below the disc drive. On an Xbox, it is on the front of the console. On a Nintendo Switch, it is on the bottom of the handheld unit. Plug the cable into whichever port your device has.

Put on the headset. You should hear sound when ready. If you do not hear anything, check that the cable is fully inserted and that your device's volume is not muted or turned all the way down. Some devices have a separate headphone volume setting in the sound menu — if the device volume is up but you still hear nothing, check that setting.

Using the USB sound card adapter on PC or Mac

The USB adapter is a small rectangular box that comes in the HyperX Cloud 2 box. It has a USB plug on one end, a 3.5mm jack for the headset cable on the other end, and two knobs on top — one for volume and one for microphone level. Using the adapter gives you physical knobs you can adjust without opening a menu.

Plug the USB adapter into any open USB port on your PC or Mac. Wait a few seconds for your computer to recognize it. Then plug the HyperX Cloud 2 audio cable into the 3.5mm jack on the adapter instead of into your computer's headphone port. The headset will work when ready without any software installation.

The left knob controls overall volume. Turn it clockwise to increase volume and counterclockwise to decrease it. The right knob controls microphone level — how loud your voice sounds to other players. If people say they cannot hear you clearly, turn the right knob clockwise. If they say you are too loud, turn it counterclockwise.

Setting up the microphone boom

The HyperX Cloud 2 has a microphone attached to a flexible boom arm on the left side of the headset. The boom can be positioned in front of your mouth or swung up and away when you do not need it. The microphone is always on unless you mute it.

To position the boom, hold the flexible arm and bend it toward your mouth. The arm will stay in whatever position you place it. Position the microphone about one inch away from the corner of your mouth — not directly in front of your lips, as that picks up breath noise. Test the position by speaking and asking someone in a game or call whether they hear you clearly.

To mute the microphone, push the boom arm upward until you hear a click. The mute button is built into the boom joint. When muted, the microphone sends no sound to other players, but you will still hear them. Push the boom downward to unmute it.

If you want to remove the boom entirely — for example, if you are using the headset to listen to music and do not need a microphone — twist the boom counterclockwise where it connects to the left ear cup. It will unscrew and come free. You can screw it back on the same way by twisting clockwise.

Adjusting fit and comfort

The HyperX Cloud 2 has a padded headband and memory foam ear cups. The headband is adjustable — the ear cups slide up and down on the metal band to fit different head sizes. Put on the headset and adjust the ear cups so they sit comfortably over your ears without pressing too hard.

The ear cups rotate slightly to fit the shape of your head. If one ear cup feels like it is not sitting flat, gently rotate it inward or outward until it feels natural. Do not force it — the cups are designed to move a small amount, not a large amount.

If the headset feels too tight, you can stretch the headband by placing it over a round object like a can or bottle for a few hours. If it feels too loose, the fit is probably correct — the headset should feel snug but not painful. Wear it for 15 minutes to let the memory foam settle before deciding whether it needs adjustment.

Troubleshooting sound and microphone problems

If you plug in the headset and hear no sound, first check that your device's volume is turned up and not muted. On a PC, right-click the speaker icon in the system tray and select "Open Volume mixer" to see if the headset is listed and whether its volume is muted. On a Mac, go to System Preferences, then Sound, and check that the headset is selected as the output device.

If the microphone is not working, check that it is not muted by pushing the boom downward to hear a click. Then test the microphone in your device's sound settings. On a PC, go to Settings, then Sound, then scroll down to Input and click "Test your microphone" to see if it is picking up your voice. On a Mac, go to System Preferences, then Sound, then Input, and check that the headset microphone is selected.

If one ear cup has no sound but the other works, the cable may not be fully inserted into the jack. Unplug the cable and plug it back in firmly until you feel it click. If sound still comes from only one side, the cable may be damaged — contact HyperX support for a replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to install drivers or software for the HyperX Cloud 2?

No. The headset works when ready when you plug it in. The USB adapter also works without software. If you want to customize settings beyond basic volume and microphone level, HyperX offers optional software, but it is not required for the headset to function.

Can I use the HyperX Cloud 2 on a console if I do not have the USB adapter?

Yes. The USB adapter only works on PC and Mac. On PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, use only the audio cable. Plug it into the headphone jack and the headset works the same way.

Why does my microphone sound muffled or quiet to other players?

The microphone boom may be positioned too far from your mouth or angled away from it. Move the boom to about one inch from the corner of your mouth. If you are using the USB adapter, turn the right knob clockwise to increase microphone level. If people still say you are quiet, your device's microphone input level may be set too low in sound settings.

Can I use the HyperX Cloud 2 with a phone?

Yes, if your phone has a 3.5mm headphone jack. Most newer phones do not have this jack, so the headset will not work with them. You can check your phone's specifications or look at the bottom and sides of the device to see if a headphone jack is present.

What should I do if the headset cable is damaged?

Contact HyperX customer support with your proof of purchase. The cable is replaceable, and HyperX will send you a replacement cable or a new headset depending on when you purchased it and your region's warranty terms.