HyperX Launches First Open-Back Gaming Headset and Carbon Fiber Mouse

HyperX has launched its first open-back gaming headset, the $150 Cloud Alpha Air, alongside a carbon-fiber gaming mouse and several hardware color updates, according to reports from Engadget and CNET. The newly announced peripherals expand the brand’s hardware lineup with a focus on specialized acoustic design and lightweight materials.

HyperX Cloud Alpha Air Open-Back Headset Design and Audio

The $150 Cloud Alpha Air introduces an open-back design to the manufacturer’s lineup, a style that lets extra space and air sit behind the audio drivers via a mesh pattern on the outer housing, as detailed by PCWorld. This architecture aims to provide a more natural tone and a wider soundstage that mirrors dedicated hi-fi speakers rather than traditional closed-back headsets. Open-back models also permit increased airflow to help reduce heat and sweating during extended gaming sessions.

To combat the typical loss of low-end bass response common in open-back systems, HyperX integrated an engineered component called the Bass Tube right through the center of the 40mm dynamic driver, according to Engadget. In initial hands-on evaluations reported by Engadget, the headset delivered a controlled deep rumble without overpowering mids and highs, though PCWorld noted that a direct comparison with dedicated audiophile equipment like the Sennheiser HD 6XX revealed a noticeable reduction in low-end response despite the tube’s inclusion.

Connectivity and Included Accessories

The Cloud Alpha Air features a relatively low impedance of 34 ohms and ships with a robust array of cables and adapters, according to Engadget. Users receive a standard 3.5mm audio cord, a PC extension cable with separate audio and microphone jacks, and a versatile USB adapter equipped with both USB-A and USB-C connectors. The device also includes a detachable microphone with a mute button, an onboard volume wheel, plush foam earpads covered in ultrasuede, and a drawstring travel bag.

While reviewers praised the accessory bundle and comfortable fit, Engadget noted that the headset is currently restricted to a wired connection. When connected via a standard 3.5mm cable to a PC, overall volume appeared slightly subdued, leading reviewers to suggest using the included USB adapter or an external digital-to-analog converter. Users can further adjust the EQ and sound profile using HyperX’s free NGENUITY software application.

Pulsefire Haste 3 Pro Carbon Fiber Mouse and Other Releases

Alongside the Cloud Alpha Air, HyperX unveiled the Pulsefire Haste 3 Pro mouse, priced at $130, which utilizes a carbon-fiber shell to achieve a total weight of just 47 grams, as reported by Engadget. The peripheral features the company’s new Performance Sensor capable of delivering up to 42,000 DPI while offering up to 150 hours of battery life at a 1K polling rate in wireless mode.

The hardware rollout also includes fresh color combinations for several existing product lines. HyperX is updating the HyperX Cloud III S, the HyperX Cloud III Wired, and the HyperX Cloud Flight 2 with new aesthetic options, according to Engadget’s hardware coverage.