Hyperkin’s DualSense-Style Xbox Controller Launches This October
▼ Summary
– Hyperkin’s Competitor controller, designed for PCs and Xbox, will release in October for $49.99.
– The controller resembles a PlayStation DualSense with similar design features but lacks a touchpad.
– It will be available in blue, red, and gold in the UK, EU, and Australia, with a North American release to be announced.
– Features include hall effect joysticks and triggers, programmable back buttons, a mute button, and wired-only connectivity without haptics or motion controls.
– IGN staff were impressed by its button placement and joystick performance during a CES demo.
Gamers seeking a fresh controller experience for Xbox and PC have something new to look forward to this fall. Hyperkin’s Competitor controller, first teased earlier this year, is officially set to launch in October with an attractive price point of just $49.99. Designed with competitive play in mind, this wired peripheral draws clear inspiration from Sony’s DualSense design while incorporating its own set of performance-focused features.
Visually, The Competitor mirrors the DualSense’s distinctive two-tone aesthetic, complete with a sleek black-and-white finish and symmetrically aligned analog sticks. Its directional pad features four separate translucent buttons rather than a traditional cross-shaped design, offering a modern twist on classic input methods. While it omits the touchpad found on Sony’s controller, the overall form factor will feel immediately familiar to anyone who has spent time with PlayStation hardware.
Beyond the standard color scheme, Hyperkin plans to release additional variants in blue, red, and gold. These special editions, however, will initially be available only in the UK, EU, and Australian markets. A North American release for these colored models has yet to be confirmed.
Where The Competitor aims to stand out is in its internal components. It includes hall effect joysticks and triggers, which are known for their durability and precision, reducing issues like stick drift over time. The controller also features two programmable rear buttons, allowing players to map commands for quicker access during intense gameplay. A dedicated mute button is also included, a practical addition often found in pro-grade controllers.
It’s worth noting that this is a wired-only device, meaning it doesn’t support wireless connectivity. It also lacks advanced haptic feedback and motion control capabilities, keeping the focus squarely on responsiveness and reliability.
Early impressions from IGN’s hands-on time at CES were positive, with testers praising the comfortable button layout and the smooth, accurate response of the joysticks. Hyperkin has built a reputation for quality recreations of classic controllers, such as The Duke and The DuchesS for Xbox, which may give gamers added confidence in this new offering.
For those who appreciate the ergonomics of the DualSense but primarily game on Xbox or PC, The Competitor presents a compelling and affordable alternative when it arrives this October.
(Source: IGN)
