HyperX’s Clutch controller was released in 2022 and offered a few extra features that players needed when switching between PC, Xbox One, and mobile games. Although it was a bit dated in design, with big option buttons on the front, it received good reviews and performed well. Now HyperX is back at it again with a new controller for Xbox and PC gamers.

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This time, HyperX opted for a fully wired controller (although the cord can be removed for storage) that aims to compete with PowerA’s line of official Xbox controllers. With a sleek design, programmable buttons, and a lightweight build, the HyperX Clutch Gladiate has entered the market as a formidable competitor.

The HyperX Clutch Gladiate controller was tested on a variety of games on both PC and Xbox Series X, including The Elder Scrolls: Skyrim and Grand Theft Auto V .

Aesthetics And Build Quality

HyperX Clutch Gladiate Enhanced Wired Controller aesthetics and build quality

HyperX’s Clutch Gladiate controller looks and feels like any other Xbox controller. The familiar shape is well executed, though the contour lines don’t do much besides look cool. The controller also feels extremely light compared to other controllers – despite the fact that it technically weighs two ounces more than the PowerA wired Xbox controller.

This paradox is reflective of the controller as a whole. Another example of this is the long power cord, which can be effortlessly folded or curled into fairly stiff shapes (for a cord), keeping it out of the way as much or as little as a player needs. HyperX clearly attempted to hone a design that has essentially been perfected at this point. As such, there aren’t any surprises to be found. Two remappable buttons sit on the back of the controller with the program button in between them. It’s really easy to reprogram these two buttons, and two trigger stop switches allow for even more on-the-fly customization. All the other buttons players expect to see are there too, and while long-term durability couldn’t be tested, the buttons are all crisp and responsive in-game. Based on other experiences, I would expect the Clutch Gladiate to last about as long as any other quality wired controller.

There’s little texture around the sides, making it feel smooth overall, though the top is particularly soft. The joysticks, on the other hand, have plenty of grip. Too much, actually. They’re dust collectors! Over the course of two weeks, the left joystick was able to get a ring of dust embedded in the top that simply won’t come out. That being said, players who have joystick caps will love this controller because that’s what the joysticks seem to be designed for. Controller caps can be hit and miss, especially when they’re from third party sellers. By having extra-grippy joystick rims, those caps won’t move around at all, no matter what. Additionally, gamers who play on the edge of the joystick may prefer this controller design over other options.

Gameplay

HyperX Clutch Gladiate Enhanced Wired Controller gameplay

The HyperX Clutch Gladiate wired controller was tested on both the Xbox Series X and PC in a variety of games. In general, the controller was incredibly responsive and smooth, yet tactile.

The D-pad is pretty good, but fairly standard. Gamers who rely on the D-pad a lot, may want to find a controller that also places emphasis on it. All the other buttons feel great too, though they aren’t very sensitive.

Again, the buttons are very tactile. Whereas the Microsoft wireless Xbox controller buttons have a bit of give before activating with a soft thud, HyperX’s controller is more similar to PowerA’s model, with buttons that won’t give way until they’re pressed with intention. While this may not be ideal for some gamers, it definitely prevents misfires during precision play.

The joysticks were as smooth as can be. Absolutely no complaints can be made about their performance. They’re a good height, a good size, and they have a strong center that’s likely to prevent drifting over months of use.

The lightweight and high-quality controller case provided a comfortable gaming experience. There wasn’t any strain and despite the dust collection on the joysticks, the textured back of the controller felt fine. It was easy to switch between trigger stops and customize the buttons in the middle of gameplay, which is perfect for gamers who play a variety of genres back to back and forget to change their controls until after everything has booted up.

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What It Could Have Done Better

HyperX Clutch Gladiate Enhanced Wired Controller done better

The Clutch Gladiate is a decent mid-range wired controller, but there are some minor things that gamers should consider. First and foremost, the cord and joysticks are dust magnets. The cord is especially bad, as the material it's made of is rubbery, making all the dust (collected through static electricity while the controller is in use) difficult to remove; the cord looked and felt gross within a few minutes of using the controller. The joystick is less of an issue since, as previously mentioned, it’s actually great for decorative thumbstick covers and for gamers who tend to wear down their joystick grips quickly.

When the controller first turns on, it takes a moment before the light comes on to indicate that it has actually powered up, and the center Xbox logo doesn’t actually light up at all; there’s just a very tiny LED below it that will glow when the controller is on. It can be a bit difficult to know whether the controller has synced correctly the first time it’s paired to a device.

Along with this, it should be noted that there was some lag on the Xbox Series X with the back buttons, often seemingly because they need to be pushed down directly, not from the side or at an angle. Playing Skyrim and having shouts mapped to the back button, it was a struggle to get just “Fus” out (rather than the entire shout) or to have the shout go off when I wanted it to, rather than a half-second later. To be fair, I do tend to play on the edge of buttons and joysticks, so some players will not be affected by this minor inconvenience, but I’m certainly not unique for this play style.

Lastly, the texture on the back doesn’t do much. It’s a bit too smooth to be effective as a grippable texture, especially for gamers with sweaty hands. Players who sweat during gameplay won’t notice that there’s texture at all. Other players may simply not like it. The texture feels akin to knock-off snakeskin accessories, minus the sticky resin layer. Rather than take a middle-of-the-road approach, it would have been better if HyperX had either committed to adding significant texture or kept it smooth like the front of the controller. On the other hand, this is a different texture option than what PowerA or Microsoft offers, and that may be exactly what some gamers want.

Conclusion

HyperX Clutch Gladiate Enhanced Wired Controller header

HyperX is a trusted name in gaming, offering top-tier headsets and other gaming accessories that players love to add to their collection. Their newest gamepad provides players with another decent mid-range option for buying a wired Xbox controller from a recognizable brand instead of a random third-party seller.

The Clutch Gladiate may not be wireless like the Clutch was, but it’s more affordable and overall a better controller for PC and Xbox gameplay. With durable, tactile buttons, easy button customization, and a comfortable design style, the HyperX Clutch Gladiate is a wired controller that will satisfy plenty of gamers throughout hours and hours of use.

Alyternatives to the HyperX Clutch Gladiate Enhanced Wired Controller

Amazon Link

PowerA Spectra Infinity Enhanced Wired Controller

$33.99 on Amazon

Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller

$44.95 on Amazon

Logitech F310

$17.48 on Amazon

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FAQ

Q: Does HyperX make controllers?

Yes, HyperX offers gamers the Clutch wireless controller and now the Clutch Gladiate wired controller.

Q: How do I connect my HyperX controller to my PC and Xbox?

The HyperX Clutch Gladiate Enhanced wired controller can be connected using the USB-C cord provided in the box.

Q: How much is the HyperX Clutch Gladiate Enhanced Wired Controller?

The HyperX Clutch Gladiate Enhanced Wired Controller is currently available for $34.99.

Q: Are HyperX products good quality?

Yes, HyperX products are high quality. HyperX is an award-winning brand known for products that provide superior comfort, style, performance, and durability.