Hyperkin DuchesS Controller Review-Hall Effect Throwaway Throwback

Summary

In this detailed review, the reviewer takes a deep dive into the Hyperkin Type S Xbox controller, highlighting its retro design and features such as impulse triggers and hall effect thumbsticks. While it aims to capture nostalgia, the controller falls short in terms of build quality and ergonomics, with cheap-feeling plastics and uncomfortable grip. The performance, although decent with low input lag, doesn't justify the $50 price tag when compared to modern controllers with more advanced features. Ultimately, the Type S is a nostalgic item but lacks the quality and functionality to recommend it for regular gaming.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Hyperkin Type S Xbox controller is a retro-inspired wired controller aimed at recapturing the original Xbox Type S design but with modern updates.
• 😀 Despite its nostalgic appeal, the controller’s build quality is criticized for feeling cheap and flimsy compared to other controllers in Hyperkin’s lineup.
• 😀 The controller features Hall Effect thumbstick modules designed to reduce stick drift, but these modules still have a reentering spring, which can lead to drift over time.
• 😀 In input lag tests, the controller performs at around 4ms delay, which is typical for Xbox controllers, but attempts to overclock it for better performance were unsuccessful.
• 😀 The Type S controller lacks standout features, such as rear buttons, trigger stops, or premium features found in other controllers, making it feel underwhelming for its $50 price tag.
• 😀 Ergonomically, the controller is uncomfortable, especially for users with larger hands, and the grip and button placement are not ideal.
• 😀 The D-pad is criticized for being imprecise, which could be a drawback for players who prefer using it for fighting games or other precision-based gameplay.
• 😀 The controller's glossy plastics and design accumulate fingerprints easily, adding to its cheap aesthetic and reducing the overall quality feel.
• 😀 The Type S controller has a standard 3.5mm headphone jack and impulse trigger vibration motors, but these features don’t elevate its appeal or performance significantly.
• 😀 The review concludes that for $50, there are better alternatives available, including wireless controllers with advanced features at a similar price, making the Type S controller a less appealing option.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the Hyperkin Type S Xbox controller in this review?

The main purpose of the Hyperkin Type S Xbox controller is to offer a nostalgic retro design inspired by the original Xbox Type S controller, but with a modern wired connection for use with current consoles and PCs.

What are the key design features of the Hyperkin Type S controller?

Key design features include Hall Effect thumbstick modules, impulse triggers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a wired connection. The controller aims to replicate the original Xbox Type S design but is criticized for its cheap build quality.

How does the build quality of the Hyperkin Type S compare to other retro controllers?

The build quality of the Hyperkin Type S is considered inferior to other retro controllers like the Duke and Xenon 360. The plastic feels cheap and hollow, and the overall ergonomics are uncomfortable, making it less appealing than its counterparts.

What are the major comfort issues highlighted in the review?

The major comfort issues include awkward palm grips, an uncomfortable shape, and poorly placed triggers and bumpers. The controller is described as having poor ergonomics, making it difficult to hold for extended gaming sessions.

Is the Hyperkin Type S controller prone to stick drift?

While the controller uses Hall Effect thumbsticks, which are generally more resistant to drift, the review notes that stick drift can still occur over time, especially due to the spring mechanism inside the thumbsticks losing tension.

How does the Hyperkin Type S perform in terms of input lag?

The Hyperkin Type S has an input lag of approximately 4 milliseconds, which is typical for wired Xbox controllers. However, this is not considered outstanding, especially when compared to wireless controllers that offer lower input lag but at a higher price.

What does the reviewer think about the value for money of the Hyperkin Type S controller?

The reviewer finds the Hyperkin Type S to be poor value for money at $50, especially when considering the availability of modern controllers with more features (e.g., trigger stops, rear buttons) at similar or lower prices.

What is the significance of the tamper-proof sticker mentioned in the disassembly?

The tamper-proof sticker is placed over a screw on the controller, which, when removed, voids the warranty. This feature is designed to prevent users from disassembling the controller without the manufacturer knowing.

Does the Hyperkin Type S controller have any special features not found in other controllers?

The Hyperkin Type S controller lacks any unique or standout features compared to other modern controllers. Despite claims like impulse trigger motors, these are seen as basic and not particularly impressive, given the price.

What does the reviewer suggest for people looking for a wired controller with nostalgia but better features?

The reviewer suggests that if you want a wired controller with nostalgia, it would be better to consider alternatives, such as the **Fly Digi Vader 3 Pro**, which is priced similarly but offers more advanced features and better performance.