Skip to content
HearWiki

HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset vs Razer BlackShark V3: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Razer BlackShark V3 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 91. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Razer BlackShark V3 - Outstanding overall at around $125.

Score breakdown

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

Razer BlackShark V3 leads on 5 of 6 measures.

  • HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset
  • Razer BlackShark V3
HearWiki score
83
91
Sound
7.2
9.2
Battery
-
8.6
Calls
7.3
8.8
Value
9.0
9.2
Price (USD)
$70
$120

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

Razer BlackShark V3 (2025) against HyperX Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset (2024). These are 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.

  • Cloud III Wired Gaming Headset2024
  • BlackShark V320251 yr newer

Level on: USB-C.

Specifications

Cloud III Wired Gaming HeadsetBlackShark V3
Type
Gaming
Gaming
Price (USD)
$70
$120
HearWiki score
83
91
Released
2024
2025
Availability
Still sold new
Sold new
Driver
53 mm dynamic
50 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
53 mm
50 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
10 Hz - 21 kHz
12 Hz - 28 kHz
Impedance
64 Ω
32 Ω
Sensitivity
100 dB/mW
106 dB/mW
Bluetooth
-
5.3
Codecs
-
SBC, AAC
Multipoint pairing
-
Yes
Latency
-
10 ms
Battery life
-
70 h
Wireless charging
-
No
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Weight
694 g
270 g
Water resistance
none
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

Razer BlackShark V3

The Razer BlackShark V3 is a wireless gaming headset that emphasizes long-lasting performance with a 70-hour battery and 50mm drivers for robust audio. It supports Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC and AAC codecs, plus multipoint connectivity for versatile use, though it omits active noise cancellation. The headset also features a noise-canceling microphone and a low-latency 10ms mode, making it a solid choice for gamers seeking extended play sessions.

  • Pro:Exceptional 70-hour battery life
  • Pro:Comfortable 270g lightweight build
  • Pro:Multipoint Bluetooth 5.3 for multi-device use
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:No water resistance rating
  • Con:Lacks wireless charging support

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

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.