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HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset vs JLab JBuddies Play Gaming: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 83. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset - Outstanding overall at around $70.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset leads on 4 of 6 measures.

  • HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset
  • JLab JBuddies Play Gaming
HearWiki score
83
60
Sound
7.2
5.4
Battery
-
6.1
Calls
7.3
5.8
Value
9.0
5.6
Price (USD)
$70
$49

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

The HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset is 4 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. The platform is level; the newer hardware shows up in convenience features instead - the JLab JBuddies Play Gaming adds Water resistance (IP55). For 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset20244 yr newer
  • JBuddies Play Gaming2020
What differsCloud III Wired Gaming HeadsetJBuddies Play Gaming

Everyday features

Water resistance
Not rated
IP55

Level on: USB-C.

Specifications

Cloud III Wired Gaming HeadsetJBuddies Play Gaming
Type
Gaming
Gaming
Price (USD)
$70
$49
HearWiki score
83
60
Released
2024
2020
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
53 mm dynamic
40 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
53 mm
40 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
10 Hz - 21 kHz
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Impedance
64 Ω
32 Ω
Sensitivity
100 dB/mW
85 dB/mW
Bluetooth
-
5.0
Codecs
-
SBC, AAC
Multipoint pairing
-
No
Latency
-
60 ms
Wireless range
-
9 m
Battery life
-
22 h
Full charge time
-
180 min
Quick charge
-
10 min → 1 h
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
-
buttons
Weight
694 g
150 g
Water resistance
none
IP55
Foldable
-
Yes
Detachable cable
-
Yes
USB-C
Yes
Yes
Connector
3.5 mm
-
Model code
727A9AA
-
Microphones
1
1
Microphone type
electret
-
Mic sensitivity
-42 dBV
-
Call noise reduction
Yes
-

What reviewers said

HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset

The HyperX Cloud III is a refined wired gaming headset that builds on the Cloud II legacy with a comfortable fit, durable build, and clear sound tailored for gaming. Its 53mm angled drivers help with directional audio, while the analog and USB-C connections ensure broad compatibility across devices. At its current price, it offers solid value for gamers seeking a dependable, no-frills headset.

  • Pro:Very comfortable for long sessions
  • Pro:Low latency keeps audio in sync
  • Pro:Clear and well-balanced sound signature
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Heavier than some competitors at 694g
  • Con:Not ideal for on-the-go use

JLab JBuddies Play Gaming

These budget-friendly wireless gaming headphones prioritize low-latency audio and long battery life, making them a solid choice for casual gamers. They offer a comfortable, foldable design with basic controls and IP55 sweat resistance, though they lack active noise cancellation and multipoint connectivity. For around $49, they deliver a practical feature set rather than premium performance.

  • Pro:Low 60ms latency for gaming
  • Pro:Long 22-hour battery life
  • Pro:Lightweight and foldable for portability
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:No multipoint pairing
  • Con:Sensitivity is low at 85 dB/mW

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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