Hyperkin has officially opened pre-orders for its latest premium gamepad, The Competitor. Announced earlier this year at CES, the controller has drawn attention for bringing a symmetrical thumbstick layout to Xbox and PC gaming, something PlayStation players have long considered standard. Shipping begins October 29, 2025, with global availability across multiple retailers.
Symmetrical Thumbsticks Meet Premium Build
The Competitor is Hyperkin’s newest officially licensed Xbox controller, also compatible with PC and Game Pass streaming on supported devices. Its most recognizable feature is the twin symmetrical Hall Effect thumbsticks, designed to eliminate stick drift and provide long-lasting precision. Players can swap between dome or concave caps, depending on preference.
Surrounding the sticks are Metal Glide Rings and Anti-Friction Gates, which add both smooth handling and durability during extended play. The D-pad has a segmented, traditional design for precise directional input, while the main action buttons use a cushioned membrane for a softer press.
Features Built for Competitive Play
Hyperkin has taken care to make The Competitor more than just a nostalgic nod to classic layouts. Both triggers use Hall Effect modules for consistent accuracy and reliability. A laser-textured grip resists sweat, keeping the controller comfortable even during long sessions, while twin programmable back buttons, complete with a locking feature, give players quick access to extra controls.
For multiplayer, an integrated mic-mute switch and 3.5mm headset jack provide straightforward communication without the need for an adapter. The controller also boasts ultra-low latency, catering to competitive gamers who rely on fast response times.
Color Options and Price
The Competitor will be offered in four colorways at launch: White and Black models are available in North America, the UK, the EU, and Australia, while Blue and Gold editions will debut in the UK, EU, and Australia (with North American release dates still to be determined).
Pricing is set at $49.99 in the US, €49.99 in Europe, and £39.99 in the UK. Pre-orders can be placed through the Hyperkin Store, Amazon, GameStop, and other regional retail partners, including EB Games in Australia and Argos in the UK.
A Word from Hyperkin
Slade Dude Suzuki, Hyperkin’s lead product developer, called the launch “an important milestone” for the brand. “Since announcing The Competitor in January, it’s evident how much enthusiasm gamers have for a premium controller that breaks the norm and delivers true innovation at a highly competitive price point. With a state-of-the art feature set, and a laser focus on performance, we believe The Competitor elevates above the competition.”
Availability
The Hyperkin Competitor is available for pre-order now, with shipping scheduled to begin October 29, 2025. More details and retailer links can be found on Hyperkin’s official website.
