One of the best Xbox controllers is getting a budget follow-up later this year

Evol-X controller
(Image credit: Nacon)

French manufacturer Nacon will be adding another controller to its repertoire when it launches the Evol-X gamepad later this year.

The Nacon Evol-X, according to the official press release, will be "building on the expertise gained with the Revolution X," a pad that features in our best Xbox controllers guide. The Designed for Xbox Evol-X will launch sometime in September 2023.

The Evol-X is also being positioned as a cheaper alternative to the Revolution X. It'll come in at a retail price of €34.99. Regional pricing is yet to be confirmed, but that works out to roughly $37.99 / £30.99 / AU$56.99. If you're after a budget gamepad for Xbox Series X|S, then, the Evol-X looks to be one to keep an eye on.

As a budget gamepad, the Evol-X sits in the same bracket as other solid options, like the HyperX Clutch Gladiate, PowerA Fusion Pro 3 and, for PC gamers, the phenomenal GameSir T4 Kaleid. It'll be interesting to see how the Evol-X fares in such a competitive budget space.

Color me impressed

In terms of features, the Evol-X is a wired only controller, much like its predecessor. However, a 3-meter USB-C cable should be long enough for most gaming setups. Textured grips on the pad and triggers should allow for comfortable, non-slip gaming. Lastly, large face buttons and two rear paddle buttons give increased accessibility and customization.

Another area where the Evol-X stands out is multiple colorways. Much like the official Xbox wireless controller, numerous color themes will be available, though they'll likely be a touch more expensive than the standard white or black finishes. 

There's lovely metallic red and blue options, and a couple of camo variants. But I'm an especially big fan of the translucent theme. As a lover of see-through hardware, that's certainly the one I'll be buying.

Rhys Wood
Hardware Editor

Rhys is TRG's Hardware Editor, and has been part of the TechRadar team for more than two years. Particularly passionate about high-quality third-party controllers and headsets, as well as the latest and greatest in fight sticks and VR, Rhys strives to provide easy-to-read, informative coverage on gaming hardware of all kinds. As for the games themselves, Rhys is especially keen on fighting and racing games, as well as soulslikes and RPGs.