One of their advantages is that the phrase “controller” can often have a bad rap in the world of PC gaming. Even though using a keyboard and mouse makes some jobs much simpler, I’ve never felt as comfortable using them for the majority of my gaming movements. Additionally, using a controller when mobile or splayed out on the couch makes playing much simpler. The new HyperX Clutch controller manages to really nail some of these features, which is why controllers will always be my first choice when it comes to mobility, versatility, and comfort. But I wouldn’t necessarily suggest it as the gold standard for PC gaming.
The HyperX Clutch has softer rubber edges that provide an additional layer of comfort in the hand compared to an Xbox Series Controller. The layout is similar to many of the controllers in our round-up of the best PC games controllers so for the most part, it should feel familiar. However, small details, like the rougher pointy ridges on top of the thumbsticks and the looser yet springier triggers, make a difference.
HyperX Clutch Wireless review: Design
The HyperX Clutch Wireless is slightly more portable than other conventional controllers thanks to its lower size. I’m not a huge fan of how light the controller feels, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing because it helps make the device more portable. However, the controller’s light weight can give it a cheap appearance when in use.
In the middle of the controller are four buttons and a home button, and above these are four lights that can show which player you are playing as or your battery level if you are playing single-player. Knowing this at a glance is quite useful. To make the controller easier to use, you can switch between different connections using a little slider at the bottom of the device. The choices include cable, 2.4G, or Bluetooth.
Despite having a regular shape, the gamepad is far more comfortable than a typical Xbox controller. Perhaps because it’s a little bit smaller and hence better fits in my hands. The ergonomic grips on the side, though, may also be to blame. These keep it from slipping out of your hands and are really silky and nice. These grips are excellent, despite being a minor modification.
HyperX Clutch Wireless review: Performance
The Street Fighter IV Champion Edition and the King of Fighters ’98 played well to start with some mobile fighting games. Each of the games handled the Bluetooth connection with ease because latency was, at best, essentially nonexistent. The D-feel pad’s and how simple it was to enter commands amazed me. I have a tendency to grip my controllers and fightpads differently when playing specific fighters. Therefore, the ability to take the mobile grip off and utilise it as a phone stand was extremely beneficial in this situation.
I then launched Mass Effect: Legendary Edition using the Xbox Game Pass app for mobile to test the controller with a shooter. This typical Xbox controller layout worked great in this situation as well. There was a definite lag here when using Bluetooth connectivity and streaming device a game over a bar’s wifi. The game was still very playable and entertaining, though. The greatest wireless connection method for the HyperX Clutch Controller came next, 2.4Ghz wireless play on PC.
I picked up fighting again and tried King of Fighters XV. The D-Pad held up wonderfully throughout the matches, and the 2.4Ghz connection kept the controller and the game connected with almost no delay. I’ll admit that I was rusty with KOF XV, but the combos I did recall were still simple to use.
When it came to shooters, Destiny 2 on the HyperX Clutch Controller was just as comfortable to play as on my Xbox Series X games. I had to bring it along on several Trials of Osiris runs, of course. I was able to make precise and quick headshots with my slow-firing Something New hand cannon thanks to those tight thumbsticks. With the HyperX Clutch Controller, I was able to complete a few Flawless runs since I was so comfortable using it.
HyperX Clutch Wireless review: Gaming
The majority of my time with the HyperX Clutch was spent playing games on mobile and cloud streaming services while also giving it a go on a PC. It provides a wonderful experience as a mobile controller. The thumbsticks have a firm, textured grip that helps keep your fingertips in place. They are snappy and responsive. The size, which is roughly the same as an Xbox Series X|S controller, if not a tiny bit smaller, is perfect in my opinion.
Mobile game controllers frequently include a lightweight plastic construction because you must account for the additional weight of your phone, which might lead to weariness after extended sessions. With the phone hooked, I did notice that the controller was more top-heavy, but that was to be expected. To lessen some of the weight, though, the ability to change the phone’s viewing angle would have been a great addition.
On the other hand, the phone felt really robust in the mobile clip because it is fixed into a single viewing position, making this a dependable choice if you want to play during a jerky commute.I evaluated a range of video games, from shooters like Halo Infinite to platformers like Hollow Knight, and I was generally satisfied with the outcomes. I discovered the controller to be incredibly responsive in a fast-paced game like Halo Infinite. In order to hold your fingers in position while playing, the analogue triggers are shaped with an angled protrusion at the end. This made pushing them extremely simple.
HyperX Clutch Wireless review: Price and availability
CES 2022 saw the debut of the HyperX Clutch Android controller, which is now sold on Amazon, the HyperX website, and a few other online stores. The Clutch controller has a $50 MSRP. The Clutch controller comes packaged by HyperX with a USB RF converter and a phone holding attachment. The Clutch controller can be used wirelessly by connecting this USB adapter to a PC or other suitable device.
Final Words
You already know this, but the HyperX Clutch Wireless controller is a unique piece of equipment. The HyperX Clutch, despite the fact that a supposedly mobile controller has long since lost its association with low quality, adds convenience, familiarity with the Xbox layout, and clever design that make it a valuable addition to any mobile gamer’s setup.
You definitely have the makings of a must-have piece of gear when you consider that it also works superbly as a PC controller. Additionally absurd is the pricing given what you receive. You simply cannot locate a comparable item for that price on the official HyperX website, where it is now listed at $39.99 (down from $49.99). With the Clutch Wireless, HyperX hit the mark and created a new benchmark for controllers that are simple to buy.
