Review: Hori Onyx Wireless Controller (PS4)

(Check out the video review of the Hori Onyx Wireless Controller above!)

We have tested several licensed products from Japanese Hori and have generally been satisfied with their offerings. The Hori Onyx Wireless Controller is designed as a wireless alternative to Sony’s DualShock 4 for the PlayStation 4. The key question is: what advantages does the Onyx offer over the standard PS4 controller, particularly given its premium price point?

The debate regarding the “best” console gamepad is ongoing. While personal preference and familiarity play significant roles, we can confidently state that both Sony’s DualShock 4 and the Xbox Controller S are excellent controllers, based on our extensive daily use across various platforms. Hori appears to be aiming to bridge the gap for PS4 players by offering a controller, the Onyx, with an ergonomic design reminiscent of the Xbox Controller S. However, this adaptation for the PS4 is not a direct replica. The handles are slightly thicker and shorter, resulting in a grip that may not be as universally comfortable as the Controller S, potentially favoring users with smaller hands. The Onyx also shares design similarities with the Nintendo Switch’s Pro Controller and SteelSeries’ Nimbus iOS controller.

Installation is facilitated through the PS4’s Bluetooth menu and is a straightforward process. Once paired, the controller should connect automatically. Wireless connectivity performs reliably, and the battery life is comparable to the DualShock 4. The Onyx is notably lightweight, perhaps even excessively so. This lightness detracts from the overall feel, and the buttons exhibit a degree of stiffness that can result in sluggishness, particularly in games requiring frequent trigger use, such as FPS titles or the new God of War. A common criticism of the DualShock 4 is the symmetrical placement of the analog sticks. The Onyx adopts the asymmetrical layout of the Xbox controller; however, the overall weight and slightly reduced size prevent it from feeling as natural in hand.

In contrast to Hori’s Mini Wired Gamepad, the Onyx includes a touch pad, albeit smaller than the DualShock 4’s and lacking a light sensor. This omission prevents its use with Playstation VR or Eye-compatible games. Furthermore, the Onyx lacks both a headphone jack and speakers, with the absence of the former being a more significant drawback. The continued exclusion of a headphone jack by Hori is puzzling.

In conclusion, the Onyx falls short of the DualShock 4 (v2) in overall performance and features. Its price is also considerably higher (approximately 750 SEK at the time of testing), a difficult proposition when compared to Sony’s controller at around 500 SEK, which is comparable to the price of an Xbox One Controller S. Consequently, the Hori Onyx may appeal to a niche audience seeking a PS4 controller with an Xbox Controller S-like design, and who are unconcerned with the lack of a headphone jack and optimized FPS gameplay. However, for most users, the Hori Onyx is not a compelling alternative, even if discounted to the same price as the DualShock 4, as it offers no discernible advantages.