I’ve been gaming across PCs and almost every console imaginable for years, amassing a controller collection that spans from the classic NES era all the way to the latest Xbox and PlayStation systems. But just because I’m firing up the Xbox One doesn’t mean I want to abandon the classic symmetrical controller layout. Thanks to Hyperkin’s “The Competitor,” making that switch is effortless.
For those who might not be hardcore hardware junkies, here’s a quick primer on symmetrical versus asymmetrical layouts. Look at a standard PlayStation controller: the two thumbsticks sit side-by-side at the bottom, perfectly mirroring each other, while the D-pad and face buttons sit up top. It’s balanced and perfectly symmetrical—much like how the eyes and ears on a human face mirror one another.
Xbox controllers, however, have historically championed an asymmetrical design. The left thumbstick is offset to the top with the D-pad dropped down below, while the right side flips that arrangement. So, what’s a gamer to do when they want to play on an Xbox but vastly prefer a symmetrical layout? Enter The Competitor. Hyperkin has successfully mashed up the button-and-stick symmetry of a classic PlayStation pad with the satisfying, chunky ergonomics of an Xbox controller.
That signature Xbox size and heft pay off beautifully, giving you a substantial grip without sacrificing the layout you prefer. But The Competitor brings more to the table than just a clever hybrid shape. It features two programmable buttons snugly positioned on the underside, right where your ring or pinky fingers naturally rest. These offer fantastic playstyle flexibility, and you can even lock them out individually if you don’t need them or tend to accidentally squeeze them in the heat of battle.
Yes, it’s a wired controller—which some might view as a negative. But if you’ve ever been deep into a marathon gaming session when your battery suddenly dies, you know the unmatched, immersive peace of mind a tethered connection brings. My trusty wired Razer Sabertooth has been my go-to for Xbox and PC for years, while I’ve strictly stuck to wireless controllers for my PlayStation gaming. After spending time with The Competitor, however, I can see this becoming a major game-changer for my setup down the road.
Ultimately, Hyperkin’s The Competitor is a brilliant hybrid, offering arguably the best features of both major controller philosophies in a single package. With its quick plug-and-play setup, customizable rear buttons, and comfortable design, this could easily become your new all-time favorite controller.
