When it comes to gaming controllers, the HexGaming Phantom has made quite a name for itself. Building on the success of its predecessor, the original Phantom, this new iteration introduces groundbreaking Hex Hall Effect technology that takes the precision up a notch.
Design and Comfort
Right out of the box, the HexGaming Phantom impresses with its sleek, ergonomic design that maintain's the beauty of the original Phantom. The button layout wasn't broke, so I appreciate the fact that they didn't try to fix it... but the back buttons are still something I have to get adjusted to using (I'll get back to this later).
Another touch that I can't forget about is the textured grips that ensure that you won’t lose your hold during those nail-biting moments, a feature that was already commended in the original Phantom. Now let's get into what makes this controller different from the original.
Hex Hall Effect Technology: A Game Changer
The most significant upgrade in the HexGaming Phantom is undoubtedly the Hex Hall Effect technology. This innovative feature utilizes magnetic sensors instead of traditional potentiometers, and the benefits are immediately noticeable:
- Unmatched Durability: While the original Phantom was built to last, the Hall Effect sensors take durability to the next level. Say goodbye to the wear and tear that often plagues standard controllers; this technology is designed to withstand the rigors of intense gaming.
- Enhanced Precision: The magnetic sensors provide a level of responsiveness that's undeniable, resulting in a controller with kickass precision... so you’ll experience smoother movements and more accurate inputs, which is crucial for competitive play. Every flick of the thumbstick translates into the game with greater speed, giving you the edge you desire.
- Custom Sensitivity: One of the standout features of the Phantom is the ability to adjust thumbstick sensitivity. Whether you’re sniping from a distance or racing at breakneck speeds, you can tailor the controller to fit your playstyle perfectly. This level of customization was a nice touch in the first Phantom, but the Hall Effect technology elevates it to new height.
Performance That Delivers
In terms of performance, the HexGaming Phantom continues to shine. The buttons and triggers are responsive, providing satisfying feedback that enhances the gaming experience. The adjustable trigger stops allow for quicker response times, making it easier to pull off those critical in-game maneuvers.
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Speaking of joysticks, you get four types for your gaming pleasure. In addition to them all featuring a nice textured grip, you get two regular concave options as well as two concave options that provide extended length + width. You also get a domed regular, two domed extended length, and... a regular length concave thumbstick featuring an extended width surface. Once you place the rubber protector rings on, just snap them onto the controller and dive into the action. Competition wise, if you need to adapt to a situation, you can swap these thumbsticks out at the snap of a finger and get ready for the next match.
Those with their sights truly set on an eSports competition will appreciate the customization options available with the new HexGaming Phantom even more than those of us who love the quality, because... victory equals money!
In terms of competing in multiple genre's, you don't have to worry about reprogramming the buttons either. As seen in the original Phantom, the new version also gives you 6 different (color coded) profiles that you can use for shooters, fighting, racing, etc.
Also, I have to include this: Like in the original Phantom controller review, when it comes to the customization of the controls... the back buttons open the door to those who may have special needs. If you don't have the ability to use the trigger buttons on either side, but... you have access to the back buttons, you can adapt to the situation. So consider this an additional option for everyday or competitive play. Gameplay using the adaptive & digital triggers:
By the way, I totally geeked out over the fact that the triggers gave me haptic feedback me in Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2. This was a badass surprise. You will get this feedback with the adaptive trigger activated, which is also great for racing games too thanks to the detailed acceleration control. On the flipside, if you want to be quicker on the draw in FPS games, switch over to the digital trigger that only requires a 1.5mm trigger pull to set it off.
When it comes to Drifix, you don't have to worry about using your little screwdriver anymore to correct joystick deviations. HexGaming created a device that allows you to calibrate accordingly and eliminate drift to restore full control as see in the video below:
Controller Test: hexco.gg/test
Pricewise + In the box:
The HexGaming Phantom Controller Bundle is $259, which includes:
USB-C Cable (by the way, this is a really long cable. Possibly 7+ feet.)
Carrying Case
Thumbstick Case
This bundle is only $30 more than the controller, which makes this the better deal in my opinion. I'll wrap this up with comparisons to PS5's DualSense Edge controller. It's $30 bucks more than the first party controller, but... here are the pluses:
- It has 2 more remappable back buttons for a total of 4
- 6 Switchable Controller Profiles
- Digital Triggers
- Built-in Drifix Modules vs Replaceable Analog Stick Modules
- Hex Hall Effect Joysticks
- 8 Interchangeable Thumsticks vs 6 with DualSense Edge
- Premium Performance Grips
- Weight is 295g vs 325g
Certain gamers looking at pro controllers may want to consider this option in terms of accuracy and the ability to customize even more so than Playstation's DualSense Edge, but when it comes to eSports players... the investment is worth considering to take your game to a whole new level (for the win).
Quality 5
Comfort 5
Customizations 5
Price 4
4.75 out of 5 Cool Points
