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HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset vs JLab JBuddies Play Gaming Kids Headset: 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 Kids Headset
HearWiki score
83
60
Sound
7.2
5.6
Battery
-
6.5
Calls
7.3
4.9
Value
9.0
5.5
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 3 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price. For 3 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset20243 yr newer
  • JBuddies Play Gaming Kids Headset2021

Level on: USB-C.

Specifications

Cloud III Wired Gaming HeadsetJBuddies Play Gaming Kids Headset
Type
Gaming
Gaming
Price (USD)
$70
$49
HearWiki score
83
60
Released
2024
2021
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
-
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
Wireless charging
-
No
Active noise cancelling
No
No
ANC type
-
none
Transparency mode
-
No
Companion app
-
No
Custom EQ
-
No
Wear detection
-
No
Controls
-
buttons
Voice assistant
-
No
Weight
694 g
150 g
Water resistance
none
-
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 Kids Headset

This wireless headset is tailored for younger gamers, offering a comfortable fit and a volume-limiting design to protect developing ears. It delivers up to 22 hours of playtime on a single charge, with a low-latency Bluetooth connection and a built-in mic for in-game chat. The on-ear controls are straightforward, and the USB-C charging port is a practical modern touch.

  • Pro:Volume limiting for safer listening
  • Pro:Long 22-hour battery life
  • Pro:Low 60ms latency for gaming
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:No app or custom EQ
  • Con:No multipoint connection

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

Compare something else

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New comparisonHyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming HeadsetJLab JBuddies Play Gaming Kids Headset