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| The HyperX Clutch Tachi is an Xbox arcade controller expected to be announced at CES 2026. |
The competitive fighting game scene is about to get a new contender, and it’s coming from a familiar name in gaming peripherals. Following the successful launch of 8BitDo’s leverless Arcade Controller earlier this year, a new leak suggests HP's gaming brand, HyperX, is ready to throw its hat into the ring with its own offering.
Dubbed the HyperX Clutch Tachi, the new leverless arcade stick was first uncovered in a detailed report by WindowsLatest. The leak, which includes product images and even a video, positions the Tachi as a direct competitor to 8BitDo’s popular model, specifically targeting the Xbox ecosystem.
Designed for Xbox, But with a Wire
From the leaked visuals, the Clutch Tachi proudly features a dedicated Xbox button, confirming it will carry the official “Designed for Xbox” certification. This ensures full compatibility with Xbox Series X|S consoles and Windows PCs. However, one major design difference is immediately apparent: the HyperX controller appears to be strictly a wired device. This contrasts with the 8BitDo Arcade Controller for Xbox, which offers both wired and wireless Bluetooth connectivity, currently retailing for $79.99 on Amazon.
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| HyperX will also unveil a new version of its NGENUITY companion software. |
A Chunky Challenger with Customization
The core layout is familiar to fight fans: the Clutch Tachi features 12 primary action buttons, matching the standard setup of its rival. Where 8BitDo gains an edge is with four additional programmable rear buttons, offering players more options for complex macro inputs.
The HyperX design takes a different physical approach. The leaked images show a controller that is significantly thicker than the sleek 8BitDo model. It also swaps out 8BitDo’s glass top panel for a removable metallic faceplate, suggesting potential for future customization or special editions.
According to the exclusive report from WindowsLatest, the HyperX Clutch Tachi is poised to introduce a notable technical first. The controller is said to utilize TMR (Tunnel MagnetoResistance) sensors for its buttons. If accurate, this would be a pioneering feature in the leverless arcade controller space, promising exceptional accuracy and consistency for precise inputs—a critical factor for high-level play.
Adding a dash of personal flair, the controller will also include RGB lighting, customizable through HyperX's recently updated NGENUITY software.
Price and Potential Impact
Perhaps the biggest question mark is price. The leak offers no official figures, but industry speculation is already swirling. Given that the Clutch Tachi is a wired-only controller and lacks the extra programmable buttons of its competitor, many expect it to be priced more aggressively. The 8BitDo Arcade Controller for Xbox launched at $99.99, setting a benchmark that HyperX will likely aim to undercut.
For reference, the wireless 8BitDo Arcade Controller for Xbox is available on Amazon.
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| The HyperX Clutch Tachi is a wired leverless arcade controller with customizable RGB lights. |
The Bottom Line for Gamers
The leak of the HyperX Clutch Tachi signals healthy competition in the rapidly growing leverless controller market. For players dedicated to the Xbox platform, this means more choice. The decision may come down to priorities: choose 8BitDo for wireless freedom and extra buttons, or potentially opt for the HyperX Clutch Tachi for a lower price point, unique TMR sensor technology, and that signature HyperX build quality—if you don’t mind being tethered by a cable.
With an official reveal likely at CES 2026, all eyes will be on HyperX to see if the Clutch Tachi can deliver a knockout punch in the fight for your fightstick dollars.