
HyperX Cloud Earbuds II vs KZ Zenith: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the KZ Zenith comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 82. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Score breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Specifications
| Spec | HyperX Cloud Earbuds II | KZ Zenith |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $40 | $47 |
| HearWiki score | 66 / 100 · Good | 82 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2023 | 2024 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | dynamic | Full-range ultra-linear Dynamic Driver X |
| Driver size | 14 mm | 10 mm |
| Drivers per side | 2 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 20Hz – 20kHz | 20Hz-40kHz |
| Impedance | 65 Ω | 41 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 105 dB/mW | 128 dB/mW |
| Sensitivity | 105dBSPL/mW at 1kHz | - |
| Wireless | ||
| Multipoint pairing | No | - |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | - |
| Controls | buttons | none |
| Voice assistant | mobile multifunction button | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 0.04 g | - |
| Detachable cable | - | Yes |
| USB-C | No | No |
| Calls | ||
| Microphones | 1 | - |
What reviewers said
HyperX Cloud Earbuds II
The HyperX Cloud Earbuds II are a budget-friendly wired option that prioritizes gaming convenience and broad compatibility, particularly with consoles and PCs. While their 14mm dynamic drivers offer a punchy low end and clear mids for immersive play, the overall sound quality is more practical than exceptional, making them a solid pick for casual gamers rather than audiophiles. The package includes useful accessories and an inline mic, but the lack of advanced features like ANC or multipoint keeps them firmly in the entry-level category.
- Pro:Strong bass response for gaming immersion
- Pro:Wide device compatibility via 3.5mm jack
- Pro:Lightweight and portable design
- Con:Sound can feel hollow or lacking in detail
- Con:No noise cancellation or wireless features
- Con:Earbud fit may not suit all ear shapes
KZ Zenith
The KZ Zenith is a wired, single-dynamic-driver IEM that delivers a balanced, non-fatiguing sound with punchy bass, detailed mids, and smooth treble. It's highly sensitive and easy to drive, making it a versatile choice for portable use, while its build quality and fit are praised. Despite a few minor caveats, it offers strong technical performance and competes well above its modest price point.
- Pro:Balanced, non-offensive tuning with textured bass
- Pro:Clear and detailed mids with refined treble
- Pro:Very easy to drive and highly sensitive
- Con:No active noise cancellation or controls
- Con:Cable is detachable but not USB-C
- Con:Minor caveats in overall technical refinement
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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