The Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S are some of the most sought-after consoles right now, but there's one big problem with Microsoft's latest consoles – the controller/s use disposable AA batteries. And some users are finding they're running through those batteries at an alarming rate.
If a solution was going to come from anywhere, it was CES 2021, and the technology conference has delivered. The HyperX ChargePlay Duo – a charging station for Xbox controllers – was announced at the conference. The Duo comes with two rechargeable battery packs so you can charge two controllers at a time, and an LED light informs you when the controller is fully charged.
If you want to get your hands on a console, then see our Xbox Series X post. You can also take a look at our guide to the best Xbox deals if you're keen to save some cash. Elsewhere, you can check out our best retro game consoles or PS5 restock article.
The charging station is nice and solid, so your controllers won't fall over (Image credit: HyperX)
The HyperX ChargePlay Duo Controller Charging Station is currently available for Xbox One (see video below), but the version for the new consoles goes on sale in the US in February for $39.99. There's no news on pricing elsewhere in the world yet, but we expect these stations to be available in the UK and Europe, too. So while for now you may have to hang on to your batteries, fingers crossed you can ditch them soon.
If you're in the market for a new console, see today's best deals below.
Rosie Hilder is Creative Bloq's Deputy Editor. After beginning her career in journalism in Argentina – where she worked as Deputy Editor of Time Out Buenos Aires – she moved back to the UK and joined Future Plc in 2016. Since then, she's worked as Operations Editor on magazines including Computer Arts, 3D World and Paint & Draw and Mac|Life. In 2018, she joined Creative Bloq, where she now assists with the daily management of the site, including growing the site's reach, getting involved in events, such as judging the Brand Impact Awards, and helping make sure our content serves the reader as best it can.
