Close to absolute perfection. - Hyperkin Xenon

Summary

In this review, the Hyperkin Xenon controller, a modern take on the Xbox 360 controller, is tested for its design, performance, and overall value. The controller successfully captures the nostalgia of the original 360 model with a similar layout, but it falls short in certain areas like the analog sticks and the d-pad, which still lack precision and tactile feedback. While the rumble feedback is intense and the build quality feels somewhat cheaper than newer controllers, the Xenon offers a solid retro experience for those seeking a 360-like feel. However, for $50, modern Xbox controllers are recommended for better comfort and features.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Hyperkin Xenon controller is designed to replicate the feel of the Xbox 360 controller with some modern updates.
• 😀 The controller features USB-C connectivity, rumble triggers, and a 3.5mm audio jack as key upgrades over the original Xbox 360 controller.
• 😀 The Xenon controller is lighter than the original Xbox 360 controller and has a slightly cheaper plastic finish.
• 😀 While the analog sticks on the Xenon are light and clicky, they are potentiometer-based, which is less ideal compared to modern Hall-effect sticks.
• 😀 The D-pad on the Xenon is still a weak point, making it difficult to execute precise movements in games like Street Fighter.
• 😀 The rumble function on the Xenon is overly intense, making the controller vibrate excessively, which may not suit all games.
• 😀 The Xenon controller has a slightly stiffer build compared to the original 360 controller, with a more rigid texture on the plastic.
• 😀 Hyperkin offers several color options for the Xenon, each with a matching cable, with the red being favored by the reviewer.
• 😀 The Xenon controller’s price point of $50 is seen as a decent deal for those nostalgic for the 360 era, but the reviewer suggests that the modern Xbox controller is a better all-around option for just a bit more.
• 😀 While the Xenon is great for fans of the 360, it has some compromises, such as the less responsive sticks and a not-so-perfect D-pad.
• 😀 Overall, the Hyperkin Xenon controller is a good option for reliving the 360 experience but might not be the best choice for those who prioritize performance and comfort in a controller.

Q & A

Why is the Xbox 360 controller considered one of the best controllers ever?

The Xbox 360 controller is praised for its comfortable shape, excellent triggers, good analog sticks, and overall solid feel. It was particularly regarded as superior to the PlayStation 3 controller in its generation due to these factors.

What are the key similarities between the Hyperkin Xenon and the original Xbox 360 controller?

The Hyperkin Xenon closely resembles the Xbox 360 controller in terms of button layout, triggers, and the overall shape. It also shares the same nostalgic feel, which is a major selling point for fans of the 360 era.

What makes the Hyperkin Xenon controller feel lighter compared to the Xbox 360 controller?

The Hyperkin Xenon controller is made with slightly lighter materials than the original Xbox 360 controller, giving it a lighter feel. However, this results in a somewhat cheaper overall plastic texture.

What improvements does the Hyperkin Xenon offer over the original Xbox 360 controller?

The Xenon includes rumble triggers, which were introduced in more recent Xbox controllers. It also comes with a modern USB Type-C connection and a 3.5mm headphone jack, replacing the proprietary accessory port from the original Xbox 360 controller.

What are the shortcomings of the Hyperkin Xenon controller?

The primary weaknesses include a poor d-pad, which is still regarded as one of the worst, and analog sticks that feel lighter and less responsive compared to modern controllers. The overall build quality also feels slightly cheaper.

How does the d-pad on the Hyperkin Xenon compare to other controllers?

The d-pad on the Hyperkin Xenon is criticized for being less responsive and tactile compared to better d-pads, like those on the Super Nintendo or Saturn controllers, making it difficult to perform precise moves in games like Street Fighter.

What is the significance of the 3.5mm jack in the Hyperkin Xenon controller?

The 3.5mm jack is a major improvement over the proprietary accessory port on the original Xbox 360 controller. It allows users to plug in headphones directly, which is a modern standard for gaming controllers.

Why is the rumble feature on the Hyperkin Xenon considered too intense?

The rumble in the Hyperkin Xenon is described as overly strong, making the hands feel tingly. While the controller does have rumble triggers, the overall vibration effect can overshadow the trigger feedback, which could detract from the gaming experience.

Is the Hyperkin Xenon controller worth the $50 price tag?

The Xenon is a good option for those who want to relive the Xbox 360 experience with a modern controller. However, for $50, it may be better to purchase a modern Xbox controller, which offers superior comfort, build quality, and features like wireless connectivity.

How does the Hyperkin Xenon perform in terms of button presses and shoulder buttons?

The shoulder buttons on the Xenon are praised for their consistency compared to the original 360 controller, although the button press travel feels inconsistent. The face buttons and overall feedback could be improved, but the Xenon still offers a fairly good overall experience.