Drakong Challenger is a wired Xbox and PC controller with Hall Effect controls

The Drakong Challenger is a no-frills Xbox and PC controller focused on performance rather than extra features. Its Hall Effect sticks and triggers, tactile buttons, and responsive D-pad make it feel precise in use.

The controller has a solid, comfortable shell and is surprisingly light. Its design closely follows the traditional Xbox shape, with green rings around the thumbsticks. It also includes a headphone jack and two mappable back buttons. Assignments are set directly with the M button, and a rumble confirms each step.

Wireless connectivity and customization software are absent, but those omissions are easier to accept at the price. The Drakong Challenger costs $34.99 (about £25 / AU$50), is available now, and includes a USB-C cable plus a code for a one-month free trial of Game Pass Ultimate. It is cheaper than the official Xbox Wireless Controller, although Microsoft’s model offers wireless connectivity, a rechargeable battery as standard, and customizable back buttons.

The Challenger measures 6.3 x 2.5 x 4.4in / 160 x 63.5 x 111.8mm and works with PC, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Xbox One. In testing, its Hall Effect controls performed smoothly in Tekken 8, Assetto Corsa, and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl.