- Hyperkin and GameSir have announced a collaboration to release the X5 Alteron, a transforming gamepad designed for the Switch 2, tablets, phones, and PC.
- Unveiled at CES 2026, the controller combines a Backbone-style expanding frame with swappable button and stick modules similar to those pioneered by Thrustmaster.
- The X5 Alteron features extensive replacement modules resembling controls from the Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, and N64, allowing users to adapt the layout for different gaming platforms.
- Technical features include capacitive sticks to prevent stick drift, Hall Effect triggers, customizable back buttons, and tactile membrane face buttons.
Quick Summary
Hyperkin and GameSir have announced a partnership to create the X5 Alteron, a transforming controller designed for the Switch 2, tablets, phones, and PC. The announcement was made at CES 2026, marking the first time the two companies have collaborated on a product.
The design of the X5 Alteron merges two distinct trends in the controller market. It utilizes a Backbone-style expanding frame that allows the device to adapt to various form factors, including Switch consoles and mobile devices. Additionally, it incorporates swappable button and stick modules, a concept popularized by Thrustmaster's eSwap controllers. This combination aims to provide a versatile solution for gamers who play across multiple platforms.
The controller is designed to be highly adaptable, catering to specific gaming preferences:
- Native Nintendo-style layout for Switch or Switch 2
- N64 layout for retro games on Nintendo Switch Online
- Fight pad layout for fighting games like Tekken
- Standard Xbox or PlayStation schemes for iOS, Android, or PC gaming
Beyond its modular nature, the X5 Alteron includes several durability and performance enhancements. It features capacitive sticks that are not susceptible to stick drift and Hall Effect triggers, often described as mouse-click-style. The device also includes customizable back buttons and tactile membrane face buttons. For connectivity, it supports lower-latency 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth, with charging handled via USB-C. The X5 Alteron is expected to launch later in 2026.
A Strategic Partnership at CES 2026
Hyperkin and GameSir are both established names in the peripheral market, known for manufacturing controllers for PCs, consoles, and mobile devices. At CES 2026, the two companies revealed their first joint venture: the X5 Alteron. This collaboration signals a move toward combining distinct controller philosophies into a single, unified product.
The core concept behind the X5 Alteron is flexibility. By integrating an expanding frame, the controller can physically adjust to fit different devices. This allows a single piece of hardware to serve users of the Switch 2, various tablets, and smartphones, as well as PC gamers. The partnership aims to address the fragmentation of gaming platforms by providing a universal input device.
Modular Design and Versatility
The X5 Alteron distinguishes itself through its swappable module system. The marketing materials for the controller showcase a wide variety of replacement controls. These modules are designed to replicate the layouts of major gaming systems, including the Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, and N64.
This extensive library of modules allows users to tailor the controller to the specific game or platform they are using. For example, a player can switch to a native Nintendo layout when playing on the Switch 2, or swap to an N64 configuration to play legacy titles on Nintendo Switch Online. The ability to switch to a fight pad layout is specifically mentioned for fighting game enthusiasts playing titles like Tekken. This adaptability ensures that the Alteron can serve as a replacement for multiple dedicated controllers.
Technical Specifications and Features
Hyperkin and GameSir have equipped the X5 Alteron with features intended to exceed the performance of standard Joy-Cons. The controller is built to last longer and avoid common issues found in standard controllers. Specifically, it utilizes capacitive sticks that are designed to resist stick drift, a common point of failure in modern analog sticks.
Additional performance features include:
- Hall Effect triggers: These utilize magnetic sensors for precise input and durability.
- Customizable back buttons: Extra inputs that can be mapped to specific functions.
- Tactile membrane face buttons: Designed to provide a distinct, responsive feel.
Regarding connectivity, the controller offers two wireless options: Bluetooth and lower-latency 2.4GHz wireless. Power is supplied via a USB-C connection. However, specific details regarding battery life have not been released at this time.
Pricing and Availability
While the specifications and design of the X5 Alteron have been detailed, Hyperkin and GameSir have not yet announced an official price. Industry speculation suggests that the cost will reflect the controller's premium, multi-functional nature. Given that the device is intended to replace several other controllers, it is expected to be a relatively expensive investment.
For context, similar modular controllers like the Thrustmaster eSwap currently retail for $150 or more. It is anticipated that the X5 Alteron will fall within a similar price range. Furthermore, consumers should expect that additional control modules will be sold separately, potentially increasing the total cost for users who require specific layouts. The controller is confirmed for release later in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the X5 Alteron?
The X5 Alteron is a transforming gamepad developed by Hyperkin and GameSir. It features an expanding frame to fit various devices and swappable control modules to mimic layouts from systems like the Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, and N64.
When will the X5 Alteron be released?
The X5 Alteron is scheduled to be released later in 2026.
What platforms does the X5 Alteron support?
The controller is designed to support the Switch 2, tablets, phones (iOS and Android), and PC.
