Headsets and headphones / Compare

Audio-Technica ATH-M40x vs HyperX Cloud II

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Product A: Audio-Technica

ATH-M40x

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Product B: HyperX

Cloud II

59 of 161 known

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Only differences

AAudio-Technica ATH-M40x

BHyperX Cloud II

General

5 of 8 differ

Series

M-Series7Press articlemusicradar.com/news/tech/namm-2014-audio-technica-reveals-new-m-series-headphones-591670Read 23 October 2026Describes the ATH-M40x as part of the overhauled M-Series range.

Cloud1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Cloud family.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

ATH-M40x2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Model number (型番): ATH-M40x

KHX-HSCP-GM, KHX-HSCP-RD, KHX-HSCP-PK, 4P5M0AA1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Maker US store SKU 4P5M0AA, colour Black-Red. The part numbers KHX-HSCP-GM, KHX-HSCP-RD and KHX-HSCP-PK come from the maker manual.2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Part Numbers: KHX-HSCP-GM (Gun Metal), KHX-HSCP-PK (Pink), KHX-HSCP-RD (Red).

GTIN / EAN

49613101254242Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026JAN code (JANコード) 4961310125424

1961880484361Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Maker store barcode 196188048436 for SKU 4P5M0AA.

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

January 20147Press articlemusicradar.com/news/tech/namm-2014-audio-technica-reveals-new-m-series-headphones-591670Read 23 October 2026Published 23 January 2014. It reproduces the maker press release dated 20-01-2014: the ATH-M20x, ATH-M30x, ATH-M40x and ATH-M50x make their debut at Winter NAMM 2014. The month is stored, as for the sibling models.

9 February 20154Press articlefuturelooks.com/kingston-starts-shipping-hyperx-cloud-ii-gaming-headsetRead 10 October 2026Reproduces the HyperX press release dated Fountain Valley, February 9, 2015, which says HyperX Cloud II is shipping now.

Status

Available1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Sold on the maker US store at $109.00 on the access date. The Japanese page marks the model as production ended (生産完了), so it is a Japan-only end of production.

Available1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026In stock on the maker US store. Overview page lists the headset at $79.99 MSRP.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

HyperX Cloud III8Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/hyperx/cloud-2-cloud-iiRead 21 October 2026Public changelog, Sep 12 2023: the new generation of these headphones, the HyperX Cloud III, come with app support.10Reviewtomshardware.com/reviews/hyperx-cloud-iiiRead 23 October 2026Tom's Hardware calls the Cloud II the predecessor of the HyperX Cloud III and says HyperX had not launched a successor until the Cloud III.

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$1396Press articleprosoundweb.com/audio-technica-introduces-next-generation-m-series-headphonesRead 23 October 2026Article of 7 February 2014: the models are available in February 2014 at these U.S. MSRPs: ATH-M20x $69, ATH-M30x $99, ATH-M40x $139, ATH-M50x $239. Radio World of 25 February 2014 gives the same list. SoundGuys lists an MSRP of $99 for the ATH-M40x, which matches the ATH-M30x price and is not used.

$99.994Press articlefuturelooks.com/kingston-starts-shipping-hyperx-cloud-ii-gaming-headsetRead 10 October 2026Article says the headset is listed at $99.99. US prices exclude sales tax.5Reviewlegitreviews.com/hyperx-cloud-ii-gaming-headset-review_157486Read 10 October 2026Expected suggested retail price of $99.99.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

Not available

Not available

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black8Retailer pagethomannmusic.com/audio_technica_ath_m40_x.htmRead 23 October 2026Thomann spec table (item 331904): Colour Black.

Gunmetal, Red, Pink, Black-Red1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026The US store lists Black-Red. The manual part numbers name Gun Metal, Red and Pink.2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Gun Metal, Pink and Red part numbers. Gun Metal is stored as Gunmetal, as written in the maker press release.

Segment

Studio1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026The perfect studio headphones for professional tracking, mixing and monitoring.

Gaming1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Sold in the maker Gaming Headsets category.

Design

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Form factor

Over-ear1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Over-ear wired headphones with a circumaural design.

Over-ear1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Form Factor: Over ear, circumaural, closed back.2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Technical specifications: Sound coupling to the ear circumaural.

Ear cup enclosureiClosed, open or semi-open acoustic enclosure. This does not describe how the headset folds.

Closed1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Type Closed-back dynamic

Closed1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Form Factor: Over ear, circumaural, closed back.2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Operating principle: Closed.

Wearing style

Headband1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Headband headphones with 90 degree swiveling earcups and a collapsible design.

Headband2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Adjustable leatherette headband with aluminum arms.

FoldingiFlat means the ear cups rotate flat. Inward means the ear cups fold toward the headband.

Flat and inward1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Features: 90 degree swiveling earcups and collapsible for space-saving portability. The Japanese page describes a 90 degree flip mechanism and a folding mechanism, and the manual shows the swivel housing and the folded position. The value follows the ATH-M50x entry, which has the same mechanism.4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026The model chart gives the ATH-M40x items B, C, F and G. G is the folded position, with the text that the headphones can be folded for storage.

Not available

Swivelling ear cupsiEar cups can rotate relative to the headband. Tilting alone does not count.

Yes1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Features: 90 degree swiveling earcups for easy, one-ear monitoring. The Japanese page gives 90 degrees forward and 15 degrees backward.4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026Part names show the swivel housing.

No7Reviewpcworld.com/article/427456/review-the-hyperx-cloud-ii-makes-the-best-sub-100-headset-a-little-better.htmlRead 21 October 2026Review text: you can't rotate the earcups. Tom's Guide describes the cups pivoting back and forth, which is tilting and does not count for this field.

RGB lighting

Not available

Not available

Lighting zonesiNumber of independently controllable lighting areas across both ear cups.

Not available

Not available

Drivers and sound

7 of 20 differ

Driver type

Dynamic1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Type Closed-back dynamic3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Type Closed-back dynamic

Dynamic1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Driver: Dynamic, 53mm with neodymium magnets.2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Transducer type: Dynamic 53mm with Neodynium Magnets.

Driver sizeiDiameter of the largest sound driver. Do not use the microphone capsule diameter.

40mm1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Driver Diameter 40 mm3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Driver Diameter 40 mm

53mm1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Driver: Dynamic, 53mm with neodymium magnets. Overview says specially-tuned 53mm drivers.2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Transducer type: Dynamic 53mm.

Drivers per sideiNumber of sound-producing transducers in one side, excluding microphones.

Not available

12Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026One 53 mm transducer per ear cup.

Diaphragm material

Not available

Not available

Magnet

Neodymium1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Magnet Neodymium3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Magnet Neodymium

Neodymium1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Driver: Dynamic, 53mm with neodymium magnets.2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Neodymium magnets (the manual spells it Neodynium).

Frequency response (wired or passive)iPublished acoustic range for wired listening, or the maker’s single range when no mode is distinguished. Power state and test standard belong in the source note.

Min15 HzMax24 kHz1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Frequency Response 15 - 24,000 Hz3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Frequency Response 15 - 24,000 Hz

Min15 HzMax25 kHz2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Frequency response 15Hz-25KHz (earphones). The current store page says 10Hz-23kHz. The manual, datasheet and launch press release agree on 15Hz-25kHz, so that is stored.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)katalog.atcomp.cz/katalog/HP-4P5M0AA/HP-4P5M0AA_datasheet.pdfRead 10 October 2026Datasheet MKD-301.2 EN (2017): Frequency response 15Hz-25,000 Hz.

Wireless audio transmission bandiFrequency range of audio transmitted over the wireless connection, not the acoustic response of the driver. Codec, sampling rate and bitrate conditions belong in the source note. When the maker gives a range per codec, the widest range is stored and its codec goes in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Impedance (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off value for a passive analog connection when the maker publishes both powered and passive values. Note the power state and test frequency.

35Ω1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Impedance 35 ohms3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Impedance 35 ohms

60Ω2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Nominal impedance 60 ohm per system.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)katalog.atcomp.cz/katalog/HP-4P5M0AA/HP-4P5M0AA_datasheet.pdfRead 10 October 2026Nominal impedance 60 ohm per system.

Sensitivity (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off figure when both powered and passive values exist. The power or voltage reference, test distance and frequency belong in the source note.

98dB1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Sensitivity 98 dB. The Japanese page gives 98 dB/mW.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Sensitivity 98 dB

98dB1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Sensitivity 98dBSPL/mW at 1kHz. The manual gives Nominal SPL 98 +/- 3 dB.2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Nominal SPL 98 +/- 3 dB.

Sensitivity referenceiPublished power or voltage reference for sensitivity. Do not assume 1 mW when the source gives only a dB value.

Per 1 mW2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Published as 98 dB/mW (出力音圧レベル 98dB/mW)

Per 1 mW1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Sensitivity 98dBSPL/mW at 1kHz.

THD (claimed)iPublished distortion figure or numerical upper bound. The source note states any less-than sign and test level.

Not available

2%1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026T.H.D: < 2%. Stored as the upper bound. Test level is not stated.2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026T.H.D < 2%. Stored as the upper bound.

Max input power

1,600mW1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Maximum Input Power 1,600 mW at 1 kHz3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Maximum Input Power 1,600 mW at 1 kHz

150mW2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Power handling capacity 150 mW. Stored as the rated maximum input power.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)katalog.atcomp.cz/katalog/HP-4P5M0AA/HP-4P5M0AA_datasheet.pdfRead 10 October 2026Power handling capacity 150mW.

Max digital audio sample rateiHighest supported digital audio sample rate over a USB cable or wireless dongle. This is not the microphone rate or acoustic frequency response.

Not available

Not available

Max digital audio bit depthiHighest published digital playback bit depth over a USB cable or wireless dongle.

Not available

16bits1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Connections and Features: Bit-Depth 16 bit, USB 2.0. This describes the USB control box.

DAC

Not available

Not available

Personalised soundiA manufacturer-supported hearing test or ear scan creates a device sound profile tailored to the listener. Generic equalizer adjustments do not count.

Not available

Not available

Onboard EQiCustom playback EQ profiles stored in the headset and applied without the host app running. Note supported active connections. Receiver-only or software-only EQ does not count.

Not available

Not available

Custom EQ bandsiNumber of bands in the custom playback equalizer. Microphone EQ bands are excluded.

Not available

Not available

EQ presets

Not available

Not available

Volume limit

Not available

Not available

Spatial audio

1 of 3 differ

Spatial audio supportiNamed headset or host spatial-audio systems that the maker or reviewer explicitly supports. A platform feature may require compatible hardware, software or a separate licence.

Not available

HyperX Virtual 7.1 Surround Sound1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Virtual 7.1 Surround Sound. The footnote says it is output as a 2-channel stereo signal. It runs on the USB control box.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)katalog.atcomp.cz/katalog/HP-4P5M0AA/HP-4P5M0AA_datasheet.pdfRead 10 October 20267.1 virtual surround sound, hardware-driven, no driver needed.

Spatial audio licence includediA paid spatial-audio licence is bundled or embedded. Compatibility with a separately purchased app does not count.

Not available

Not available

Head tracking

Not available

Not available

Noise cancelling

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Active noise cancelling

No1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Passive wired studio headphones with no electronics.

No2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Passive closed-cup design. The headset has no battery or active electronics.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)katalog.atcomp.cz/katalog/HP-4P5M0AA/HP-4P5M0AA_datasheet.pdfRead 10 October 2026Closed-cup design for passive noise cancellation.

ANC typeiFeedforward uses outside microphones. Feedback uses inside microphones. Hybrid uses both. Voice-call noise filtering is separate.

Not available

Not available

ANC microphonesiTotal microphones used for active playback noise cancellation across both sides. Do not substitute the total physical or voice microphone count.

Not available

Not available

Adaptive ANCiNoise cancellation automatically changes with the environment or fit. Manually choosing a level does not count.

Not available

Not available

ANC levelsiNumber of adjustable cancellation strength steps. Off and transparency modes are excluded.

Not available

Not available

ANC attenuation (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Transparency mode

Not available

Not available

Adjustable transparency

Not available

Not available

Conversation detectioniAudio pauses or lowers automatically when the wearer speaks. Voice assistant activation does not count.

Not available

Not available

Wind noise reduction

Not available

Not available

Measured

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Frequency response notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Follows the SoundGuys studio preference curve closely. Deviations in the sub-bass and between 200 and 600 Hz. Bass is audible but subdued, the lower mids get a modest boost at 100 to 200 Hz and the treble is pleasantly emphasized.9Measurementsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m40x-review-1494Read 23 October 2026SoundGuys lab review, byline dated 31 January 2025, against its studio headphone preference curve. The graphs are script charts, so the text is the source: closely follows the curve with deviation in the sub-bass and in the 200 to 600 Hz midrange, bass subdued, lower mids boosted at 100 to 200 Hz, treble pleasantly emphasized.

U-shaped curve with scooped mids and boosted highs. A dip near 4.2 kHz.9Measurementsonarworks.com/blog/reviews/hyperx-cloud2-reviewRead 21 October 2026Sonarworks review dated 2019-05-23, before HP took over HyperX in 2021. It describes a typical U-curve with scooped mids and boosted highs, and calls the dip at 4.2 kHz the only unusual feature. Hardware revision and test rig are not stated.

Bass amountiReviewer’s bass deviation from its stated target. Positive is more bass. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Treble amountiReviewer’s treble deviation from its stated target. Positive is more treble. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Deviation from targetiReviewer’s full-range error from its target curve. Do not substitute a regional bass or treble error.

Not available

Not available

Consistency between fittingsiReviewer’s standard deviation across repeated fittings. Test rig and fitting procedure belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Harmonic distortioniIndependently measured harmonic distortion, with test level and method in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Sound leakageiIndependently measured leakage at 30 cm. Playback level and method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Measured noise isolationiIndependently measured attenuation. Positive values mean more noise reduction. ANC state, rig and frequency bands belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Noise isolation (measured, best)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Passive isolation (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic quality notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic low-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic high-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic speech-to-noise ratioiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured latencyiEnd-to-end latency measured by a reviewer for a specific connection, platform and codec. Firmware, method and operating mode belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

2.4 GHz latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured battery lifeiReviewer’s continuous playback test. State the connection, ANC and lighting where known. Unknown settings stay omitted and are described in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Battery life (measured, max)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Clamping forceiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Weight (measured)iIndependently weighed headset. A review that repeats the maker’s number does not qualify. Cable and microphone inclusion belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Microphone

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MicrophoneiMain microphone used for speech. Secondary internal microphones may be described in the source note.

None1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Wired studio headphones with no microphone.

Detachable boom1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Detachable, noise-cancelling mic.2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Detachable microphone with adjustable arm and condenser, plug and unplug for music-only use.

Microphone element

Not available

Electret condenser1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Element: Electret condenser microphone.2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Microphone transducer type: Condenser (back electret).

Microphone pickup patterniUse the maker’s exact named pattern. Unidirectional does not establish whether the capsule is cardioid, supercardioid or hypercardioid.

Not available

Cardioid2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Polar Pattern: Cardioid. The store page says uni-directional.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)katalog.atcomp.cz/katalog/HP-4P5M0AA/HP-4P5M0AA_datasheet.pdfRead 10 October 2026Microphone polar pattern: cardioid.

Voice microphonesiTotal microphones used for voice pickup or beamforming across both sides. ANC-only microphones are excluded.

Not available

12Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026What's Included: 1 Detachable Microphone. This is the only voice microphone listed.

Total microphonesiEvery physical microphone across the headset, including call, ANC and calibration microphones. Shared microphones count once. Excludes microphones in charging cases or receivers, and vibration sensors. Use an explicitly published physical total, never a sum of overlapping role counts.

Not available

12Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026What's Included lists one microphone and the passive headset has no other microphones. The maker states no total.

Mic frequency responseiAcoustic microphone response, not its digital sampling rate. Connection-specific ranges belong in the source note.

Not available

Min50 HzMax18 kHz2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Frequency response 50 - 18,000 Hz (microphone). The manual gives microphone output -39 +/- 3 dB, the store page gives -42 dBV (1V/Pa at 1kHz), so no microphone sensitivity is stored.

Mic sensitivityiPublished microphone sensitivity. Reference such as dBV/Pa or dBFS, frequency and distance belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic signal-to-noiseiPublished microphone signal-to-noise ratio. Minimum or typical conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sample rateiExplicitly published digital microphone capture or speech sampling rate. State the audio route in the source note, or say it is unpublished. Internal capture does not prove the effective rate on every connection. Acoustic bandwidth, playback rate and generic microphone-chip capability do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Mic noise reductioniProcessing that removes noise from transmitted speech. Playback ANC and a directional microphone alone do not count.

Not available

DSP3Maker spec sheet (PDF)katalog.atcomp.cz/katalog/HP-4P5M0AA/HP-4P5M0AA_datasheet.pdfRead 10 October 2026Digitally enhanced noise-cancelling microphone with automatic gain control and echo cancellation enabled through the USB sound card. This works with the USB control box only.

Flip to mute

Not available

Not available

Mute button

Not available

Yes6Maker spec sheet (PDF)kingston.com/datasheets/KHX-HSCP_us.pdfRead 21 October 2026Control box features: Microphone slide mute.

Mute indicatoriPublished indication of microphone mute. mechanical_marker is a visible physical marker showing the microphone's mute-switch position. LED options require an electronic light. The in-line controller option is for a mute light on a cable remote.

Not available

Not available

Sidetone

Not available

Not available

Adjustable sidetone

Not available

Not available

Foam microphone windscreeniA foam cover for the voice microphone. An internal metal mesh pop filter does not count.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

4 of 20 differ

Audio connectionsiConnections that carry playback audio. Charging or firmware USB alone does not count as USB audio.

Analog1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Wired headphones with detachable analog cables.

Analog, USB2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Direct connect to a device with a 3.5mm audio jack, or through the USB control box for computers.

Analog source plugsiAnalog plug(s) supplied for the source device, including adapters. The headset-side jack is listed separately.

3.5 mm TRS, 6.35 mm2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Plug: 6.3 mm standard and 3.5 mm mini, gold-plated stereo 2-way (プラグ φ6.3mm標準/φ3.5mmミニ 金メッキステレオ2ウェイ)

3.5 mm TRRS2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Connection: Mini stereo jack plug (3.5MM). The older datasheet says 4 pole.

Cable connector on headsetiConnection used by the playback cable at the headset. A fixed cable is not replaceable through a headset jack.

Proprietary2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Detachable cords with a bayonet lock mechanism (着脱コード(バヨネット式ロック機構)). Read as a maker-specific twist-lock connector, as for the ATH-M50x.

Fixed cable2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Attached cable with 3.5mm input jack. The cable is permanently attached to the headset.

Longest included cableiLength of the longest supplied cable, including charging and dongle cables. Individual cable lengths are listed in Cables included.

3m1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Cable: detachable 3.0 m (9.8 ft) straight cable, the longest of the two included cables. The coiled cable runs 1.2 m to 3.0 m.

2m2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Cable length and type: 1m + 2m extension. The longest cable is the 2 m extension, stored as 2. The manual does not say if it is the USB control box cable.

Headset USB plug or portiUSB plug or port on the headset or its included wired audio adapter. A charging-only USB port can appear here.

Not available

Not available

Audio over USB-C cableiPlayback through a USB-C cable or included wired USB-C audio adapter. A charging-only USB-C port does not count.

Not available

Not available

Passive wired listeningiAnalog playback works with the headset powered off or its battery empty. An active analog converter that needs headset power does not count.

Yes1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Passive dynamic headphones with no battery, so analog playback needs no power.

Yes2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Usage with no control box: connect the headset directly to a device with a 3.5mm audio jack. The headset has no battery.

Wireless receiveriDedicated wireless audio receiver or dongle. A wired USB sound card does not count.

None1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Wired headphones with no wireless parts.

None2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Wired headset.

Wireless receiver connectoriPhysical USB connector on the receiver. Supplied extension cables and adapters are explained in the source note. Both means two native connector types.

Not available

Not available

Wireless range (claimed)iMaker’s advertised wireless range. Connection and indoor or outdoor conditions belong in the source note. Measured distance is not stored here.

Not available

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Bluetooth

Not available

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Bluetooth codecsiNamed Bluetooth audio codecs supported by this exact model. Host, firmware and operating-mode restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

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LE AudioiLE Audio playback support. Bluetooth Low Energy for app control alone does not count.

Not available

Not available

AuracastiAuracast broadcast audio support. Required phone, firmware and app conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

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Bluetooth multipointiCan remain connected to multiple Bluetooth source devices at once. Mixing Bluetooth with a proprietary dongle is a separate field. A maker's dual connection to two Bluetooth devices at once counts.

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Multipoint devicesiNumber of Bluetooth source devices connected at once, not the number remembered for later pairing.

Not available

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Paired devices remembered

Not available

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Mixes 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth audioiPlays both wireless audio streams at the same time. Automatic switching or Bluetooth standby does not count.

Not available

Not available

Fast pairing

Not available

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Base station

Not available

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Latency

None of 2 known

Low latency modeiA selectable mode intended to reduce audio delay. A low-latency connection without a distinct mode does not count.

Not available

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Claimed latencyiMaker’s claimed delay for the stated connection and mode. Minimum claims and host restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

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Compatibility

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Compatible platformsiPlatforms with a documented audio path. This does not imply every connection or microphone function works. Platform editions must be checked individually.

Not available

Windows, macOS, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Compatibility: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Mobile. The manual describes PC and Mac over USB and phones and tablets over the 3.5 mm jack. Mobile is stored as Android and iOS.

Connection per platformiOnly explicitly documented playback paths for the exact model. Microphone support is separate. Leave unknown microphone support omitted. An Xbox and a PlayStation edition of one headset can connect differently, so it is per variant.

AAudio-Technica ATH-M40x

Not available

BHyperX Cloud II

Platform	Connection
Windows	USB
macOS	USB
PS4	Analog
Xbox One	Analog

Source2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026PC and Mac use the USB control box. PS4 uses the headset jack on the controller. Xbox One needs the maker adapter sold separately and no control box. Phones and tablets use the 3.5 mm jack.

Official licence

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

1 of 13 differ

Battery capacityiRated capacity of one headset battery. Do not use case, receiver or total multi-battery capacity.

Not available

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Swappable batteryiBattery can be exchanged by the user as part of normal operation. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

Not available

Batteries includediNumber of headset batteries supplied, including the one already installed.

Not available

Not available

Claimed battery lifeiMaker’s maximum playback time per stated connection, codec, ANC, spatial audio and lighting settings. Name the spatial processing mode and other conditions in the source note. Unknown settings stay omitted.

Not available

Not available

Battery life (claimed, max)

Not available

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Battery life with ANC (claimed)

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Battery life without ANC (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Charging port

None1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Passive wired headphones with no battery or charging port.

Not available

Full charge timeiPublished time to fully charge a depleted headset. In-use charging can take longer.

Not available

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Quick charge timeiCharge duration in the maker’s quick-charge claim. Read together with Quick charge playback.

Not available

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Quick charge playbackiPlayback gained from Quick charge time. Charger power, codec, volume and ANC conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

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Use while charging

Not available

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Charging dock or stand

Not available

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Controls

2 of 6 differ

Controls

Not available

Buttons, Slider, In-line remote6Maker spec sheet (PDF)kingston.com/datasheets/KHX-HSCP_us.pdfRead 21 October 2026Control box features: independent headset and microphone volume control, 7.1 virtual surround sound control and microphone slide mute. PCWorld calls the volume controls rockers. Buttons stands for the rockers and the 7.1 toggle, slider for the mic mute slide.7Reviewpcworld.com/article/427456/review-the-hyperx-cloud-ii-makes-the-best-sub-100-headset-a-little-better.htmlRead 21 October 2026Review text: the USB soundcard features big rockers for both headset and mic volume, as well as a 7.1 toggle and mic mute. The mic mute slides.

Volume control

None1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026No volume control on the headphones or the supplied cables.

In-line remote6Maker spec sheet (PDF)kingston.com/datasheets/KHX-HSCP_us.pdfRead 21 October 2026Independent headset and microphone volume control sits on the USB control box that is in line with the cable.7Reviewpcworld.com/article/427456/review-the-hyperx-cloud-ii-makes-the-best-sub-100-headset-a-little-better.htmlRead 21 October 2026Review text: the volume rockers are on the USB soundcard control box.8Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/hyperx/cloud-2-cloud-iiRead 21 October 2026Public comparison text: the Cloud II has an in-line remote that gives access to a mic mute, volume control and channel mixing. The test results are behind the RTINGS paywall and were not used. RTINGS tested the Kingston-era variant.

Game and chat mixiBalances separate game and chat audio streams. Mixing Bluetooth and dongle source volume alone does not count. Supported platforms belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Remappable controlsiOn-device button, touch or dial functions can be reassigned. Changing EQ alone does not count.

Not available

Not available

Wear detection

Not available

Not available

Voice assistant

Not available

Not available

Comfort and build

6 of 11 differ

Headband type

Padded2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026New earpad and head pad (ヘッドパッド) materials for high durability, so the headband has a head pad.

Padded2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Adjustable, soft-padded leatherette headband.5Reviewlegitreviews.com/hyperx-cloud-ii-gaming-headset-review_157486Read 10 October 2026Design has a padded headband.

Headband material

Not available

Leatherette2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Introduction: adjustable, soft-padded leatherette headband.

Frame material

Not available

Aluminum1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Frame Type: Aluminum.2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Solid aluminum construction.

Ear cup material

Plastic10Reviewsonarworks.com/soundid-reference/blog/reviews/ath-m40x-studio-headphone-reviewRead 23 October 2026Sonarworks review of 27 May 2019: the ear cups are plastic and seem of lower quality than the ATH-M50x.

Not available

Ear pad material

Synthetic leather10Reviewsonarworks.com/soundid-reference/blog/reviews/ath-m40x-studio-headphone-reviewRead 23 October 2026Sonarworks review: the ear pads are artificial leather (pleather). SoundGuys also calls the pads synthetic.

Memory foam and premium leatherette1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026Ear Cushions: Memory foam and premium leatherette.

Replaceable ear pads

Yes2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Sold separately (別売): replacement ear pads HP-M40x.5Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/p52521_mseries_earpad_replacement.pdfRead 23 October 2026The instruction lists the ATH-M40x among the models and tells the user to remove the existing earpad by pulling it off.

Yes1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026The box includes velour ear cushions as a second set.2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 20261 spare set of velour ear cushions in the package contents.5Reviewlegitreviews.com/hyperx-cloud-ii-gaming-headset-review_157486Read 10 October 2026Design has user replaceable earcups.

Ear pad attachmentiHow a replacement ear pad attaches to the ear cup, not how the decorative outer cover attaches. A press-fit or snap-on pad counts as clip.

Stretch-over5Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/p52521_mseries_earpad_replacement.pdfRead 23 October 2026Instruction P52521 for HP-EP replacement earpads names the ATH-M40x. Step 2: slide the new earpad's flange into the slot of the earcup. Step 3: gently stretch the flange over the slot until the pad is securely in place.

Not available

Ear pad openingiUsable opening inside an ear pad, excluding the outer cushion. Depth is the internal space between pad surface and driver cover.

Not available

Not available

Ear tips included

Not available

Not available

Dust and water rating

Not available

Not available

User-replaceable parts

Ear pads (HP-M40x), Coiled cable 1.2 m, Straight cable 3.0 m2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Sold separately (別売): replacement ear pads HP-M40x, coiled cord (detachable) 1.2 m and straight cord (detachable) 3.0 m.

Ear cushions, Microphone2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026Ear cushions are swappable with the spare set. The microphone is detachable.

Software

None of 3 known

Companion app

Not available

Not available

App platforms

Not available

Not available

User firmware updates

Not available

Not available

Dimensions and weight

1 of 2 differ

Headset weightiPublished headset mass without detachable cable or microphone when stated. A fixed cable remains included. Any unqualified maker weight is identified in the source note.

240g(8.5 oz)1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Weight 240 g (8.5 oz), without cable and connector3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Weight 240 g (8.5 oz), without cable and connector8Retailer pagethomannmusic.com/audio_technica_ath_m40_x.htmRead 23 October 2026Thomann lists 241 g without cable and 300 g with cable, which agrees with the maker 240 g without cable.

320g(11.3 oz)6Maker spec sheet (PDF)kingston.com/datasheets/KHX-HSCP_us.pdfRead 21 October 2026Datasheet MKD-301.1US (2015), Specifications, Headset: Weight with microphone and cable: 320g. The figure includes the detachable microphone and the cables. The maker store page gives 0.7 lb.

Headset dimensionsiBody size with headband upright and ear cups in their normal wearing position. Width is across the head, height is top to bottom, and depth is front to back. Folded or flat-swivel dimensions are not substituted.

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Certifications

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Hi-Res Audio

Not available

Not available

Communication certifications

Not available

TeamSpeak3Maker spec sheet (PDF)katalog.atcomp.cz/katalog/HP-4P5M0AA/HP-4P5M0AA_datasheet.pdfRead 10 October 2026Certified by TeamSpeak and optimised for Skype. Distributor copy of the maker datasheet for HP part 4P5M0AA.

FCC ID

Not available

Not available

Other certifications

RoHS (2011/65/EU)3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026Declaration of Conformity on PDF page 9 covers ATH-M20x/30x/40x/50x and lists RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and EN50581:2012. This is manufacturer self-declaration, not independent certification.

Not available

In the box

3 of 3 differ

In the box

Detachable coiled cable 1.2 m, extends to about 3.0 m, Detachable straight cable 3.0 m, 6.3 mm (1/4 inch) screw-on adapter, Protective carrying pouch1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Accessories included: protective carrying pouch and 6.3 mm (1/4 inch) screw-on adapter. Cable: two interchangeable cables, a detachable 1.2 m to 3.0 m coiled cable and a detachable 3.0 m straight cable.

Gaming Headset, USB advanced audio control box, Detachable mic, Velour Ear Cushions, Quick Start Guide1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026What's In the Box: Gaming Headset, USB advanced audio control box, Detachable mic, Velour Ear Cushions, Quick Start Guide. The older manual also lists a mesh bag, so the carrying case is not stored.

Cables includediSupplied playback, charging, dongle and adapter cables. A permanently attached headset cable is included and named as fixed.

AAudio-Technica ATH-M40x

Type	Length (m)	Count
Coiled cable, detachable, extends to 3.0 m	1.2	1
Straight cable, detachable	3	1

Source1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Cable: detachable 1.2 m to 3.0 m coiled cable and detachable 3.0 m straight cable. The Japanese page gives the coiled cable as 1.2 m, about 3 m when extended.4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026The model chart gives the ATH-M40x a 3.0 m detachable straight cable (B) and a 3.0 m detachable coiled cable (C).

BHyperX Cloud II

Type	Length (m)	Count
Attached headset cable with 3.5 mm plug	1	1
Extension cable with USB control box	2	1

Source2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 20261m headset cable plus 2m extension. The manual shows the control box cable with its USB connector.

Carrying caseiSupplied carrying case or pouch. A retail carton does not count as a carrying case.

Soft1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Accessories included: protective carrying pouch

Not available

Links

Not compared

Product page

www.audio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40x1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026

hyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-ii1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026

Spec sheet

docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdf3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026Official technical construction file TCF ATTWCE-HP140318001 dated 2014-03-18. The ATH-M40x table is on PDF page 6. Image-only PDF, read visually.

hyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-ii1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026

Manual

www.audio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdf4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026Operating instructions for ATH-M50x, ATH-M40x, ATH-M30x and ATH-M20x. PDF page 2 is in English.

media.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdf2Owner's manualmedia.kingston.com/support/downloads/HX_Cloud2_Headset_Manual.pdfRead 10 October 2026

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

1 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026Japanese warranty certificate on PDF page 1: one year from purchase. This is Japan coverage, not a global warranty claim.

2years1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-cloud-iiRead 10 October 2026

Both are also in the API. Back to all headsets and headphones.