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HyperX QuadCast 2 S vs SoloCast 2: do you need monitoring?
Choose the SoloCast 2 if a simple cardioid USB mic with tap-to-mute is all you need. Choose the QuadCast 2 S if you want a headphone jack on the mic, a monitor mix, gain and pattern controls, or its USB-C cable with a USB-A adapter. HyperX doesn't list PS5 chat for either model.
Compared by the connections, controls and parts each maker lists. No hands-on sound ranking.Updated Oct 10, 2026How we choose
A USB mic with one cardioid pattern and tap-to-mute on top. HyperX doesn't list a headphone jack or a way to hear yourself through the mic, and its cable ends in USB-A.
Listing matched on black second-generation SoloCast 2; AR0A0AA. A different edition or bundle is a different listing; check the model
number before you buy.
Amazon offers a free 30-day Prime trial, with free delivery on eligible items. A paid link, like the Amazon buttons.
QuadCast 2 S adds a headphone output, headphone volume and mic-monitor mix, gain control, four selectable patterns, a removable shock mount, and a 3 m USB-C cable with a USB-A adapter.
headphone output with headphone volume and mic/headphone monitor-mix control
Not listed by the maker
Works with (per the maker) (differs)
Windows PC · macOS
Windows PC
Included parts (differs)
microphone · 3 m USB-C to USB-C cable · USB-C to USB-A adapter · quick start guide
microphone · USB-C to USB-A cable · quick start guide
Also needs (differs)
A USB port on a PC or Mac
A USB-A port (or a USB-C adapter) on a Windows PC
Mount or thread (differs)
included removable shock mount · 3/8-inch thread · 5/8-inch adapter
integrated adjustable stand · 3/8-inch thread · 5/8-inch adapter
Dimensions
Not listed by the maker
Not listed by the maker
Software needed
Not listed by the maker
Not listed by the maker
Make sure you get the second-generation models
QuadCast 2 S, QuadCast 2 and the earlier QuadCast S are different mics, and SoloCast 2 is not the original SoloCast. Check the name when you buy, and use the instructions and box contents for these second-generation models only.
Both connect straight over USB and both have tap-to-mute on top with a light that shows when you're muted. Past that, they differ.
Do you want to hear yourself?
QuadCast 2 S has a 3.5 mm headphone jack and one control for headphone volume and for the mix between your voice and computer sound. It also has gain and a pickup-pattern switch. With these on the mic, you don't need a separate box to hear yourself.
HyperX lists no headphone jack on the SoloCast 2 and no way to hear yourself through it. Mute on the mic, plug your headphones into the computer, and leave Windows' or the app's mic playback off unless you've tried it and can live with the delay. HyperX's NGENUITY app works on supported Windows versions, but software can't add a headphone jack.
QuadCast 2 S comes with a 3 m USB-C-to-USB-C cable and a USB-C-to-USB-A adapter, and HyperX lists Windows PC and macOS. SoloCast 2 comes with a USB-C-to-USB-A cable, and HyperX lists Windows PC; it doesn't say whether it works on a Mac.
HyperX doesn't list PS5, Xbox or Nintendo chat for either mic. A USB plug, another HyperX generation that lists consoles, or a store listing that mentions them doesn't count for these two.
QuadCast 2 S comes in a removable shock mount and takes a 3/8-inch thread, with a 5/8-inch adapter. SoloCast 2 has a built-in adjustable stand and takes the same thread sizes through its adapter. HyperX doesn't give either one's footprint, so measure the spot on your desk rather than judging from photos.
Neither box has a boom arm, and neither mic needs one. If you add one, check its thread, weight limit and clamp thickness, that it clears your keyboard, and that the mic can sit near your mouth without blocking the screen.
Decide whether you want to hear yourself through the mic.
Check your computer has a port for the cable or adapter in the box.
Measure the spot on your desk, or check an arm fits.
Test the mic in Windows or macOS and in Discord before changing anything in NGENUITY.
QuadCast 2 S has cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional and stereo patterns; SoloCast 2 lists cardioid only. For game chat use cardioid, and switch only when you have a reason to. More patterns don't mean less keyboard, fan or room noise.
We haven't run listening or room tests on either mic. Recording format, capsule count, the internal shock mount and the pop filter are features HyperX lists, not proof of how your voice will sound in your room.
Two complete setup examples
SoloCast 2 for a Windows Discord desk
Plug the USB-C-to-USB-A cable from the box into a Windows PC, use the built-in stand, and pick SoloCast 2 in Windows and Discord. Tap the top to check mute works. Plug your headphones into the computer: HyperX doesn't list a headphone jack on the mic.
Plug the USB-C cable from the box into the Mac, plug wired headphones into the mic, and set a safe headphone level and monitor mix. Pick QuadCast 2 S in macOS and Discord, then check tap-to-mute and run Discord's Mic Test. This setup doesn't need NGENUITY, which HyperX lists for Windows.