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Marcus Richardson

@hlplanet.bsky.social

I write about keyboards and controllers, sometimes about other tech stuff.

453 Followers  |  111 Following  |  150 Posts  |  Joined: 15.11.2024  |  1.7631

Latest posts by hlplanet.bsky.social on Bluesky


Preview
RK C96 HE: Hall Effect Full Sized Keyboard with Wrist Rest The Hall Effect keyboard market is becoming overcrowded in 2026. What was dominated for a moment by Wooting has now flooded with budget options from several

It's wired-only and uses a lighter plastic build, but for raw gaming performance and Numpad utility, nothing else at this price point comes close.

Full technical breakdown:
๐Ÿ”— www.hlplanet.com/rk-royal-klu...

#RoyalKludge #GamingKeyboard #HallEffect #CheapTech

17.02.2026 14:08 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 1    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 0    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
Preview
RK C96 HE: Hall Effect Full Sized Keyboard with Wrist Rest The Hall Effect keyboard market is becoming overcrowded in 2026. What was dominated for a moment by Wooting has now flooded with budget options from several

Royal Kludge C96 HE Review

HE keyboards don't have to be $200+ or tiny 60% layouts. The RK C96 HE packs high-end gaming tech into a full 96% board for ~$79.

โœ… 8,000Hz Polling (3ms tested latency)
โœ… Rapid Trigger (Down to 0.1mm)
โœ… Full Numpad for productivity
โœ… PBT Keycaps & magnetic wrist rest

17.02.2026 14:08 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 1    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
Preview
Flydigi Vader 5S First Impressions Flydigi Vader 5S is the first Flydigi's controller with Xbox compatibility. Only wired, not wireless, but it's priced at only $59.99 and it has tons of

Includes Hall Effect sticks, microswitch face buttons, and switchable trigger modes.

My first impressions: www.hlplanet.com/flydigi-vade...

06.02.2026 12:29 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 0    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0

Unlike the Vader 5 Pro, this model is wired-only and opts for textured plastic grips rather than rubber. However, it introduces a new ratcheting mechanism for the adjustable tension rings (40gf-100gf), preventing the accidental slips seen on previous smooth rings.

06.02.2026 12:29 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
Flydigi Vader 5S

Flydigi Vader 5S

Flydigi has officially released the Vader 5S, their first controller with native Xbox compatibility. At $59.99, it positions itself as a direct competitor to the Gamesir G7 Pro in the wired controller market.

06.02.2026 12:29 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
Preview
Gulikit TT Pro vs TT Max Controllers The GuliKit TT Series has officially launched for global markets as of January 15, 2026. Following the release of the Xbox-styled KK3 Max, the new TT Series

While the TT Pro provides the same core sensor performance as the Max for a lower price, the Max includes extra joystick caps and expanded software customization.

For the full technical specifications and a comparison of both units, visit: www.hlplanet.com/gulikit-tt-p...

24.01.2026 00:48 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 0    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0

GuliKit TT Max vs. TT Pro: Feature Parity and Firmware Differences

As of January 15, 2026, the GuliKit TT Series is available globally. These controllers move to a symmetrical stick configuration and offer a 1000Hz wired polling rate.

24.01.2026 00:48 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
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Is the EasySMX D05 Worth It? Pros, Cons & Verdict I love a good value. And I love a nice controller. When I saw the EasySMX D05 going for $35 I was instantly tempted to make this review. It usually retails

For $45, itโ€™s a decent value, but at $35, it's a very strong alternative to standard first-party controllers if you want Hall Effect tech on a budget.
Check out the full review for the battery benchmarks and hardware breakdown www.hlplanet.com/easysmx-d05-...

21.01.2026 15:55 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 0    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
Preview
Is the EasySMX D05 Worth It? Pros, Cons & Verdict I love a good value. And I love a nice controller. When I saw the EasySMX D05 going for $35 I was instantly tempted to make this review. It usually retails

It isn't a perfect unit. There is no companion software, so all customization has to be done via manual button combos. The charging dock is functional but feels very lightweight/cheap, and the triggers have a slightly pointy edge that might be a bit polarizing depending on how you rest your fingers

21.01.2026 15:55 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
Preview
Is the EasySMX D05 Worth It? Pros, Cons & Verdict I love a good value. And I love a nice controller. When I saw the EasySMX D05 going for $35 I was instantly tempted to make this review. It usually retails

The D-pad is a highlight hereโ€”itโ€™s a traditional cross-style with a central pivot that actually handles fighting games and precision platformers well. The Hall Effect sticks are linear and smooth without the common "snap-back" issues found on some budget controllers.

21.01.2026 15:55 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
Preview
Is the EasySMX D05 Worth It? Pros, Cons & Verdict I love a good value. And I love a nice controller. When I saw the EasySMX D05 going for $35 I was instantly tempted to make this review. It usually retails

Tech: Hall Effect joysticks and triggers (no drift issues).
Layout: Standard Xbox style, weighing in at a light 220g.
Connectivity: 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth, and Wired.
Extras: Comes with a dedicated charging dock and two programmable back buttons.

21.01.2026 15:55 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
Preview
Is the EasySMX D05 Worth It? Pros, Cons & Verdict I love a good value. And I love a nice controller. When I saw the EasySMX D05 going for $35 I was instantly tempted to make this review. It usually retails

EasySMX D05 Review: The EasySMX D05 is currently positioned as one of the more affordable Hall Effect options for PC and Switch, often dropping to around $35 during sales. HLPlanet recently put it through its paces to see where the corners were cut to hit that price point.

21.01.2026 15:55 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 1    ๐Ÿ” 1    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0

Overall, the Ultimate Legend delivers flagship-level performance with no major technical flaws. It is best suited for users who prioritize low latency, modular hardware, and raw input performance over stylistic design choices.

13.01.2026 11:23 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 0    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0

Build quality is solid, with rubberized grips, a removable faceplate, Hall Effect triggers with locks, and four rear paddles. Some design choices, such as trigger shape and extra front button placement, may not suit everyone.

13.01.2026 11:23 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0

The controller features modular analog sticks, allowing easy swaps between TMR and potentiometer-based modules. This flexibility lets users fine-tune feel and performance without complex modifications.

13.01.2026 11:23 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
Preview
ZD Ultimate Legend Gamepad Review ZD Ultimate Legend Controller Tested in detail and reviewed - Another contender for the title of best controller of 2025. TMR, 8 extra buttons, gyro and more.

Buttons use mouse-style mechanical switches, resulting in very fast and consistent inputs. Analog stick latency is especially low in wired mode, placing the controller among the fastest tested so far. Wireless performance remains strong and reliable.

13.01.2026 11:23 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
ZD Ultimate Legend review

ZD Ultimate Legend review

ZD Ultimate Legend Review: A No-Compromise High-End Gamepad

The ZD Ultimate Legend is a high-end controller designed with a clear focus on performance. It supports wired, 2.4 GHz, and Bluetooth connections, offers up to 3000 Hz polling when wired, and maintains low latency across all modes.

13.01.2026 11:23 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0

If youโ€™re trying to decide between the Flydigi Vader 4 Pro and Vader 5 Pro, or wondering if upgrading is worth it, weโ€™ve published a full, detailed comparison on HLPLANET. It covers real-world differences, measurements, and practical conclusions instead of just specs.

11.01.2026 10:25 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 0    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0

On top of that, button feel, trigger response, and overall comfort are noticeably better, even if the core hardware concept stays the same.

11.01.2026 10:25 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0

What matters most, though, is performance. Latency is clearly improved on the Vader 5 Pro, especially joystick latency, which was a weak point on the Vader 4 Pro. In real use, inputs feel faster and more precise, both wired and with the dongle.

11.01.2026 10:25 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0

It also switches to newer materials, updated charging pins, a revised function button layout, and a newer version of Flydigiโ€™s app.

11.01.2026 10:25 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0

The Vader 5 Pro introduces rubberized grips, a refined ergonomic shape, an improved D-pad V2, redesigned back buttons with extra top buttons, sharper mouse-like triggers, and a cleaner LED layout.

11.01.2026 10:25 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
Preview
Flydigi Vader 5 Pro Review Flydigi Vader 5 Pro is the next iteration of a very well received Vader 4 Pro. Is it worth upgrading from Vader 4 Pro to Vader 5 Pro? And is it a good first

Flydigi Vader 4 Pro vs Flydigi Vader 5 Pro: it's one of those upgrades that looks subtle at first look, but the differences add up once you start using the controller. www.hlplanet.com/flydigi-vade...

11.01.2026 10:25 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0

Sound test: www.youtube.com/watch?v=G28h...
At around $60, this is a strong option for beginners or anyone wanting a solid budget 75%.
๐Ÿ‘‰ Full Ajazz AK820 Max Plus review, sound test, and detailed breakdown on hlplanet

07.01.2026 16:19 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 0    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
โœจ Ajazz AK820 Max Plus : Sound Test - DayDream Switches! โœจ
YouTube video by Fang Reviews Tech โœจ Ajazz AK820 Max Plus : Sound Test - DayDream Switches! โœจ

Connectivity is tri-mode (wired, 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth), with good performance in wired and 2.4 GHz modes. Battery life is excellent thanks to the 8000 mAh battery, lasting weeks with RGB off. Software is basic and Windows-only, but usable for setup.

07.01.2026 16:19 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 1    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0

Stabilizers are plate-mounted and decent out of the box, but will likely need re-lubing over time. Keycaps are doubleshot PBT, good quality for the price, with sharp legends and a pleasant texture.

07.01.2026 16:19 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0

For a budget board, the internal build is solid, with multiple foam layers that help produce a deeper, cleaner sound. www.hlplanet.com/ajazz-ak820-...

The stock Day Dream switches are factory lubed, smooth, and consistent, though they have a bit of stem wobble.

07.01.2026 16:19 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
Ajazz AK820 Max Plus Review

Ajazz AK820 Max Plus Review

Ajazz AK820 Max Plus Review: Cheap, Flexible, and Well Built

The Ajazz AK820 Max Plus is an affordable 75% keyboard that punches above its price. It uses an 82-key layout with a knob, gasket mounting, and a surprisingly flexible typing feel thanks to a PC plate and flex-cut PCB.

07.01.2026 16:19 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 1    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
Preview
Vader 5 Pro vs Gamesir G7 Pro: both great controllers, butโ€ฆ If you are looking for one of the best controllers you can buy right now, the short answer is this: both are excellent, but for differentโ€ฆ

The Flydigi Vader 5 Pro targets PC users who care about deep customization, ultra-low latency, and flexible button layouts. medium.com/@hlplanet/va...

We reviewed both Vader 5 Pro and Gamesir G7 Pro so if you want to read more detailed reviews on then make sure to check these on hlplanet.com.

31.12.2025 20:01 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 0    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 0    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0
Preview
Vader 5 Pro vs Gamesir G7 Pro: both great controllers, butโ€ฆ If you are looking for one of the best controllers you can buy right now, the short answer is this: both are excellent, but for differentโ€ฆ

Vader 5 Pro vs Gamesir G7 Pro - which to get?

If you are looking for one of the best controllers you can buy right now, the short answer is this: both are excellent, but for different players. The longer answer is where it gets interesting.

31.12.2025 20:01 โ€” ๐Ÿ‘ 1    ๐Ÿ” 0    ๐Ÿ’ฌ 1    ๐Ÿ“Œ 0

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