Hyperkin and Gamesir have announced the X5 Alteron, described as the world's first fully modular mobile games controller, at CES 2026. The device features swappable modules for buttons, sticks, and d-pads, compatible with smartphones, tablets, Nintendo Switch, and PCs. It includes advanced features like capacitive sticks and Hall-effect triggers, though no release date or pricing has been set.
At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, Hyperkin and Gamesir showcased the X5 Alteron, a groundbreaking collaboration aimed at revolutionizing mobile gaming peripherals. The controller stands out for its fully modular design, allowing users to swap out button arrays, analog sticks, and d-pads to mimic layouts from classic consoles. Demonstrated in a non-working prototype on the show floor, the device supports asymmetric sticks reminiscent of modern controllers, a yellow C-stick aspiring to the GameCube style, a six-button array for Sega Saturn fans, and even symmetrical sticks for those who prefer them.
The X5 Alteron's vice grip accommodates a wide range of devices, from iPhones and Android phones to Nintendo Switch series handhelds and iPads. It connects via Bluetooth for PC use and incorporates rumble motors for immersive feedback. Technically, it employs capacitive analog sticks for enhanced precision— a technology still rare in controllers—paired with Hall-effect analog triggers on the rear to prevent drift issues common in traditional potentiometers.
Additional customization options include adjustable stick heights and hot-swappable buttons. Hyperkin and Gamesir plan to offer modules inspired by GameCube and N64 controllers, as well as a trackpad for first-person shooter games. While the magnetic modules attach flush, the early prototype showed some difficulty in removal. The announcement highlights the companies' focus on versatility, with Gamesir known for innovative peripherals and Hyperkin for retro-inspired designs.
CES 2026 runs from January 4 to 9, providing a platform for such unveils amid broader tech showcases from companies like Samsung, LG, and NVIDIA. The X5 Alteron has no confirmed launch timeline or price, but its potential to appeal to mobile gamers is evident from the intrigue it sparked at the event.
