HyperX Clutch Tanto Mini – Review

The little hurricane for on-the-go gamers has arrived in Romania.

Every time a new controller hits the market, gamers split into two camps: those who view it with scepticism, and those who can't wait to put it to work.

I'm in the latter category, so when I got my hands on the HyperX Clutch Tanto Mini Wired Gaming Controller, I knew an intense testing period was ahead. After a few weeks of serious gaming sessions, I can say that this little gadget exceeded my expectations and earned its place on my desk.

Design and build

The first thing you notice about the Clutch Tanto Mini is how small it is. Seriously, at first glance it almost looks like a toy controller, but after the first few minutes of use, you realise that beneath its compact dimensions hides a serious device. It weighs about 165 grams, without the cable, and feels incredibly light in hand. Perfect for those who are tired of massive controllers that numb your fingers after an hour of play.

The casing has a matte finish that provides good grip even when your palms sweat from an annoying boss. The back has a subtle texture, and the buttons are solid, with satisfying feedback. You don't get that "soft click" sensation that makes you think you'll run out of buttons after a week.

The overall design has a slightly retro feel, a kind of combination between the nostalgia of old-school joysticks and modern ergonomics. Personally, it reminded me of the days when I played on Sega, only now everything is better finished, more comfortable, and, of course, compatible with almost any platform.

The only detail that gave me a bit of trouble is the cable. It's about three metres long, which is excellent if you want freedom of movement, but sometimes it feels like you have a climbing rope instead of a wire. Also, it can be a bit rigid and slightly uncomfortable if you don't have much space around you. A cable tie or a Velcro strap would have been ideal, but it's not a major drawback.

Compatibility and performance

One of the biggest strengths of the Clutch Tanto Mini is its compatibility. You can use it on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, and even on Android devices with a USB-C port. The package includes a USB-C to USB-A cable and a USB-A to USB-C adapter, so you don't have to bother with additional accessories. Plus, it also has a 3.5mm headphone jack, perfect if you want to go full-immersion mode without getting tangled in separate cables.

In terms of performance, the controller works excellently. Input is precise, with no visible lag, and the buttons react instantly. I tested it in arcade, platformer, and racing titles, and it performed flawlessly. The analogue sticks are sensitive exactly as they should be, and the D-pad is surprisingly precise, which is rare for small controllers.

However, the flip side of the coin must also be said. If you have large hands, you might feel discomfort after long sessions. The compact shape doesn't leave much room for a relaxed grip, and after a few hours of intense gaming, you might want a short break. Also, the cable, while useful, can become a small obstacle when playing on PC and you have a lot of wires on your desk.

Gaming experience

I used the Clutch Tanto Mini in all sorts of scenarios, from retro games to modern titles. On PC, I connected it without problems, plug and play, exactly what you want. On Android, with the included adapter, it works flawlessly. On the go, with the phone attached to a small stand, I managed to play without any interruptions.

The vibration motor is surprisingly powerful for its size. You feel every explosion, every drift, and every tense moment in the game. It's not on the level of a premium Xbox controller, but it's not far off either.

What I liked most is how portable it is. You can throw it in your backpack without it taking up almost any space and, thanks to its solid construction, you don't have to worry about it getting damaged easily. It's the kind of controller perfect for gamers who travel often or who simply don't want to bother with large and cumbersome models.

Conclusion: small, but with personality

After a few weeks of testing, I can say that the HyperX Clutch Tanto Mini is a very pleasant surprise. Although it has an accessible price, it feels like a premium product. It's the kind of controller that seems made especially for gamers who want performance but don't need a massive accessory on their desk.

I warmly recommend it to those who prefer a compact design and a direct, uncomplicated gaming experience. It's not perfect; the size can be a limitation for some, and the cable could be more flexible, but overall it's an excellent choice.

If HyperX were to release a wireless version, with the same features, I think it would instantly become one of the most popular controllers in its category. Until then, the Clutch Tanto Mini remains a reliable companion, offering everything you need to enjoy games without emptying your wallet.

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