When building out your gaming setup, it might be tempting to go with the default options like the Xbox Wireless Controller or PlayStation DualSense. However, there are numerous alternative gamepads that offer enhanced features. Take the PowerA Advantage, for instance. This wired controller, priced similarly to Microsoft's regular Xbox device, offers a host of additional features. Plus, it's officially licensed for Xbox Series X|S and compatible with Xbox One and Windows 10/11, so you can trust its reliability.
The model we're discussing isn't just the standard Advantage—it's the Lumectra version. This model boasts multi-zone RGB lighting and includes an extra 4 ft. RGB LED strip for good measure. Additionally, it features extra buttons and a wide array of customizable options that you won't find on a regular Xbox gamepad. Despite these impressive enhancements, the entire package is priced at just under $55 directly from PowerA, providing it with a compelling price point that sets a strong foundation for this review.
Table of Contents
Design
My initial thoughts when unboxing the PowerA Advantage controller were that it felt like a premium bit of kit thanks to a smooth matte finish and additional buttons, even though it doesn't cost that much. Despite the fact I typically prefer PlayStation's controller layout, this one did feel comfortable to hold as well, which was particularly noticeable during longer gaming sessions.
According to my scales, the controller weighs 218 grams without the USB cable, meaning it's lighter than the standard Series X and Elite Series 2 controllers, which contributes to its ease of use during extended gaming sessions. That said, while it felt light when unplugged, the USB wire adds noticeable weight, although that's not necessarily a bad thing as it gives a sense of sturdiness and durability. That wire is a bit of an issue, though, as it restricts freedom when using the device. Okay, the wire is 10 ft. long, so you can play from pretty much anywhere, but having the option to use it wirelessly would have been nice for me personally.
A clear highlight of the controller is its customizable lighting, which can be adjusted across different zones using either the controller itself or additional software (more on this later). The lighting is great, there's no denying that, but adjusting them via the controller was cumbersome, requiring entry into Program mode and following a lengthy, 13-step guide if you want to view all the different settings. The RGB light strip is a visually pleasing addition but lacks the same level of customization and can be challenging to keep attached to a TV or monitor, which I suspect is down to the weight of the IR sensor and inline control box pulling it down. Still, they looked great attached to the back of my TV, and having the option to sync them to the core light settings of the controller is a nice touch.
Moving on to the trigger locks, which I'd say are pretty user-friendly and can be changed quickly mid-game without accidental adjustments. Each trigger’s activation distance can be independently modified (i.e. there's one switch for the right bumper, and one switch for the left bumper), enhancing performance, particularly when playing first-person shooters (FPS) by allowing for more precise control.
The back buttons are another great addition, especially considering the price. They're easy to access and press, and function well (more on this later, however), although some users may prefer paddles over buttons. These buttons can be mapped through the additional software or directly on the controller. I found making the adjustments via the controller the easiest way to map them, with the process far more straightforward than the lighting adjustments.
Performance
Performance is a huge factor in determining whether a controller is good or not. Comfort is key too, but the additional features like the back buttons and adjustable triggers are there to ultimately make you a better player. The issue is, assessing performance fairly really isn't easy with so many variables playing a part in each game. Performance, therefore, comes down to whether or not you feel like you're playing better. Despite this, I did try and run a few tests while playing XDefiant to assess whether or not the additional features actually made me better (caveat—I was trying out the game for the first time when testing, so my general performances were poor...)
I'll start with the trigger locks, which I changed at different points during two games of Domination (on Attica Heights and Nudleplex). The upshot is that the trigger locks made minimal difference to my Kill/Death ratio in both games, with the longest and shortest activation distances on the right trigger producing similar results when firing. I also found the shortest activation distance on the left trigger didn't register in-game, so I mainly stuck with the middle distance for aiming down sight. Every now and then, I also found my weapon would fire twice after respawning when the right trigger was set to the shortest distance. This may have been the game lagging, but I didn't notice this when it was set at longer distances.
At this point, my favorite trigger length was mid-activation; however, things improved when I moved over to the game's Assault Course. I won't share my times as they are embarrassingly slow, but I did find my times improved each time I shortened the activation distance, recording a 3.5-second difference in my time between the longest and shortest distances. Even when reversing the order and starting with the shortest distance (to remove familiarity with the course), I was still at my quickest when the trigger was set to the shortest distance. So, while it may not have reflected in a game, my assault course testing does suggest the trigger locks made me a quicker player.
Moving on to the back buttons, which, as I mentioned earlier, were easy to access and press. This was true, but that also meant I pressed them by mistake a few times. This is primarily my own fault, but I do wonder if I would have made the same mistake if these were slightly stiffer paddles rather than very easy-to-press buttons. That said, they are a welcome addition to a controller in this price range, and were particularly handy to access commands like crouch sliding a little quicker in-game.
Software
The PowerA Gamer HQ software for the controller is generally user-friendly, though it has some minor inconveniences. The software was easy to download and immediately recognized the controller, although an update was required when I first plugged it in. A slight annoyance is that minimizing the software paused the download, and it wouldn't restart until I reopened it, which stopped me from doing anything else in the meantime. Despite this hiccup, the software's intuitive interface made it straightforward to use.
One of the most enjoyable features of the Gamer HQ software is the color customization. You can set different brightness and colors across four distinct RGB zones and choose between Static, Breathing, and Color Cycle modes for each zone individually. Additionally, the speed of non-static options can be adjusted. While the QR code manual explains these features and how you can change the colors from the controller itself, I found it much simpler to adjust these settings via the software than through the controller’s button combinations. The only exception is syncing color settings across all zones, which was easier to do directly via the controller by pressing LB in program mode rather than through Gamer HQ, which requires you to adjust each zone individually.
The software's Test/Calibration feature is useful, showcasing button combinations that might not be immediately obvious. For instance, holding A and moving a thumbstick allows for on-the-fly adjustment of dead zones, which is quicker than doing it through the software. Adjusting the trigger dead zones is another handy feature for FPS games. However, while button remapping can be done through the software, I often found it easier to do this via in-game settings or directly on the controller as touched on earlier. That said, adjusting audio settings, including the Game/Chat volume ratio, is made easy through the Gamer HQ software, enhancing the overall customization experience.
Verdict
Overall, this PowerA device is a standout controller that impresses with its premium feel, defying its budget-friendly price tag.
One of the most notable additions is the RGB lighting, which truly steals the show. The vibrant and customizable lighting adds a touch of flair and personalization that is definitely fun to play around with, although has little influence on your performance in-game.
However, it's important to note that this PowerA controller does have a significant drawback: its lack of a wireless connection. For gamers who value the freedom and convenience of wireless play, this might be a bit disappointing. The reliance on a wired connection can feel restrictive, especially at a time when wireless technology has become the norm for gaming peripherals. It does mean you never have to recharge it, but having the option to use it wirelessly would have bumped it up a few ratings.
Despite this limitation, I would say the PowerA Advantage Controller with Lumectra is a solid choice for gamers seeking a high-quality controller without breaking the bank. Its blend of essential features, added extras, and eye-catching RGB lighting makes it a compelling option, as long as you're willing to overlook the lack of wireless connectivity.
Where to buy the controller:
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