HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 Core for PlayStation: problems, parts and running costs

Checked: 2026-10-24

Summary

Owners report a budget-grade plastic build, stereo-only output with no surround processing, a microphone adequate for chat but not broadcast, and a short PlayStation cable of about 1.3 m. Running costs are effectively zero because the headset is passive wired with no batteries, software, subscriptions or consumables. It is a good buy at about $25 and loses value above about $40, where better-built alternatives become competitive.

Common problems and fixes

Stereo only, no surround — output is stereo with no spatial processing on the headset; DTS Headphone:X applies only to the PC variant. [7][9][10]
Microphone adequate for chat, not broadcast — the electret condenser mic is fine for team chat but not broadcast quality. [7][9][10]
Short PlayStation cable (~1.3 m) — the PS variant cable is 4.26 ft (≈1.3 m), shorter than the 2 m PC cable; a 3.5 mm extension may be needed. [1]
No active noise cancellation — passive isolation only. [9][10]
Ear cushions wear over time — fabric ear cushions show wear after about 2 years of use. [17]
Occasional audio or microphone issues — some owners report unequal audio or a mic cutting out on HyperX budget headsets; that thread concerns the Cloud Stinger 2 (non-Core) and may not apply to the Core. [12]
Durability concerns — the original Cloud Stinger line has reports of breaking after about one year; not specific to the Stinger 2 Core. [12]

Parts and consumables

No replaceable parts or consumables reported.

Yearly running cost

No yearly running cost: the headset is passive wired with no batteries, software, subscriptions or consumables, and HyperX sells no replacement parts for this model. A one-time 3.5 mm extension cable may be needed because of the 1.3 m PlayStation cable. [1]

When it is a good buy

At about $25 the Core PlayStation headset is a good budget value: 40 mm drivers, clear gaming audio, a swivel-to-mute microphone, an on-ear volume wheel, a lightweight build, broad 3.5 mm compatibility and a 2-year warranty. Value drops if the price rises above about $40, where better-built alternatives such as the Cloud Stinger 2 (non-Core) and the Cloud II become competitive. A BestBuy listing for the white PlayStation variant exists, but no price was read from it. Not suitable for buyers wanting surround sound, wireless or premium build. [7][9][10][13][14][15]