The HyperX Clutch Talon is a customizable Multi-Platform gaming controller

After the release of Valve’s Steam Controller, HyperX is back with a different kind of gamepad with a ton of changes and proper Xbox certification.

While pricing is still to be determined, the new Clutch Talon is basically HyperX’s take on Microsoft’s Xbox Elite Controller, except it’s arguably even more customizable. Not only is this the first gamepad from HyperX to offer Hall effect joysticks for more accuracy and longevity, it includes a dual mode connection thanks to its integrated 2.4GHz wireless connection and Bluetooth connection. That means you can use the controller on a ton of different platforms like PCs, Android devices and even the good ‘ole Xbox as Clutch is officially licensed to work with Series X and S.

Meanwhile, for people who like to submerge their gamepad and buttons, the Clutch Talon comes with a host of hot swaps including long analog sticks, alternate switches, a round D-pad, a second set of rear paddles and more. I’m also very grateful that HyperX even threw in a phone adapter that plugs into the back of the controller, allowing you to quickly turn small Android devices into portable gaming consoles. And like many other HyperX peripherals, all of the Clutch Talon’s buttons can be reprogrammed or reprogrammed within HyperX’s Ngenuity app, which eventually makes the transition from beta to the full 1.0 release. However, for people who still need more customization, HyperX says it plans to release official 3D print files for the Clutch Talon, which will allow owners to create their own original faceplates for the controller.

When I had a brief opportunity to test the Clutch Talon for myself, I found it to be solidly built, even with all of its customization options. Parts like the analog sticks and D-Pad are very easy to replace thanks to built-in magnets and because the entire controller was designed to be tool-free, there’s no need to worry about reaching for a screwdriver or Allen key. Also, here’s a little shout out to HyperX for including the case with the Clutch Talon, as that makes it easy to keep all its extra parts (including the mobile adapter) together, especially while traveling. There’s even a built-in 3.5mm jack if you want to plug in wired headphones, and with a battery life of up to 30 hours per charge, you’ll probably only need to top it up once a week (or less). Unfortunately, we are still waiting to hear about the official release date, so stay tuned for more information.

Aside from the Clutch Talon, HyperX’s other big release this spring is the Cloud Stinger 3, which is intended to be a more affordable version of the company’s Cloud Alpha II headset. Priced at $50 for the wired model or $100 for the wireless version, the Cloud Stringer 3 is very affordable while offering large 50mm drivers, a foldable boom and a noise-cancelling microphone. And while the battery life of the wireless variant isn’t quite as good as what you get from the Cloud Alpha II (which can go up to 250 hours between charges), its 80-hour runtime is still impressive. One thing I noticed while trying them on is that while they sound great, between its headband and large earcups, the Cloud Stinger has a looser fit than most other headsets. That’s great if you have a big head, a lot of hair or don’t want to feel like you’re pinching it all the time. But if you prefer solid cans that offer a more intimate soundstage or want something with ANC on board, this might not be a good choice.

That said, with the price of gaming gear seemingly rising across the board, there’s a lot to like about the Cloud Stinger 3s for the money, available today directly from HyperX.