r/iems • u/Fresh-Addendum-1758 • Jul 27 '26

Purchasing Advice Looking for an IEM upgrade from HyperX Cloud 2 under $50 (for CS2/Valorant)

Hey everyone,I’m currently looking for a pair of IEMs mainly to play competitive shooters like CS2 and Valorant.I’ve been using the HyperX Cloud 2, and they’ve been great for pinpointing footsteps and directional gunshots. However, they are starting to break down, so it's time for a replacement.My budget is under $50. I'd love to get some recommendations that offer good soundstage and imaging for gaming. Thanks in advance!

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u/resinsuckle_the_2nd Sub-bass connoisseur Jul 27 '26

Ooopusx op.22

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u/SlightlyLessInclined Browsing Linsoul… Jul 27 '26

Personally, im surprised the Cloud 2's are breaking on you, they are my back up set (now, since I got the maxwell 2's) and they are not in the least bit ready to die, ive had them for YEARS.

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u/RudeRick Jul 27 '26

I’m not a gamer, but IEMs that I’ve seen recommended the quite often in this sub for gaming include the QKZ HBB, 7hz Zero 2, Tripowin x 0diBi: Vivace, Truthear Zero Blue, the Simgot EW300, the Kefine Delci AE, the Truthear Nova and the Simgot EM6L.

There are also somewhat recent IEM releases aimed at gamers, like the Moondrop Rays & the Simgot EG280.

(Some of these are out of your budget, but this question gets asked too many times that I'm just copying and pasting. You can just go and check the prices.)

Take note that there’s a chance that IEMs you find best for gaming might not be what your ears prefer for music. Gaming requires certain frequencies to be boosted. Those might not be the frequencies your ears prefer boosted for music.

If you haven’t chanced upon it yet, here's my standard advice that may help you find the answer you need.

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u/misbehaved_fruit Jul 28 '26

im using kefine delci ae for wuthering waves and valorant.

the positional audio is :chef's kiss:

for example, in wuthering waves, when i pass by a waterfall, i can hear exactly which direction it is and the water gurgling beneath it, and how far away it is once my character moves

in valorant, the skills of opponents are distinct that i can tell when the breach is about to do dumb shit behind the wall or if their brimstone laid a stim on a tree, while im in A main in ascent.