Member-only story
The entire design meeting for MPOW’s new blandly-named 2.4Ghz Wireless Gaming Headset probably went something like this:
“Let’s steal the Cloud Alpha design, and make it wireless!”
“Okay!”
In 2017, that would have been a tremendously exciting concept to me, and in 2020, it’s still not too bad. I’ve wanted HyperX to make a wireless version of their iconic Cloud II for years. When they first teased the Cloud Alpha, I thought the cutouts in the frame meant they were lowering the weight for a wireless version. Instead, they made a slightly better Cloud II, and then kept the old model on the market.
When HyperX finally did enter the wireless space with the Cloud Flight, Cloud Mix, and Cloud Stinger Wireless, all of them used fresh industrial designs instead of the classic frame . The diminutive Cloud Mix comes the closest to the spirit of my dream headset, though its wireless functionality is Bluetooth-based, requiring a wire for peak gaming performance.
In spite of HyperX’s decent wireless lineup, I still find myself wondering “What would a wireless Cloud III look like?” Apparently, the folks at MPOW felt the same way, and took a crack at it.
They used a cheaper overall build, and packed a huge feature set into a budget headset. Unfortunately, it’s marred by substandard sound quality, a quiet microphone, and some lame marketing techniques.
OVERVIEW AND MARKETING PROBLEMS
The MPOW 2.4Ghz Wireless Gaming Headset sells for $59. I bought my pair personally with my own cash on Amazon, where it was discounted to $54. It features a closed back design, a removable microphone, and an optional 3.5mm connection. The wireless dongle is certified to work with PC, Mac, and PS4. It doesn’t…
