Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave specifications and in-depth review

Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave

Manufacturer: Turtle Beach

The Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave is a versatile game controller designed for Xbox and PC users. With a total of 16 buttons and built-in paddle buttons, it offers a responsive and customizable gaming experience. The controller features a sleek design with an asymmetrical joystick positioning, catering to players who prefer a non-traditional grip.

Technically, the Afterglow Wave is equipped with hall effect triggers for precise control and supports up to 4 onboard memory profiles. It connects via USB, offering a cable-only power type, and includes a 3.5mm audio jack for headset compatibility. Weighing 300g, it has a width of 120mm, a height of 160mm, and a thickness of 65mm.

Pros
  • The controller features 16 buttons, providing ample control options for gaming.
  • It includes paddle buttons, offering additional customization for gameplay.
  • With 4 onboard memory profiles, players can store and switch between their custom settings easily.
  • The controller has a 3.5mm audio jack, allowing for easy headset compatibility.
Cons
  • The controller uses a cable-only power type, meaning it cannot be used wirelessly.
  • It lacks adaptive triggers, limiting certain advanced gaming experiences.
  • There is no gyroscopic aiming support, which may reduce precision in some games.
  • The controller does not come with a charging dock or travel bag, which could impact convenience for some users.
Who is this for?

The Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave is well-suited for gamers who prioritize a responsive button layout and the ability to store multiple configurations, thanks to its 16 buttons and 4 onboard memory profiles. It’s ideal for those who prefer a wired connection and need headset compatibility through the 3.5mm audio jack, making it great for extended gaming sessions on Xbox and PC. Its inclusion of paddle buttons offers added control for advanced gameplay, making it a strong option for competitive players looking for a customizable experience.

Who is this NOT for?

This controller is not ideal for gamers seeking wireless functionality, as it relies solely on a cable-only power type. Players looking for advanced features such as adaptive triggers or gyroscopic aiming may find it lacking, as it does not support these technologies. Additionally, its lack of a charging dock or travel bag could be inconvenient for users who require portability or prefer wireless charging solutions.

Design:

Joystick positioning Asymmetrical
has textured triggers/bumpers
controller weight 300 g
width 120 mm
height 160 mm
thickness 65 mm

The design of the Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave is crafted for comfort and functionality, featuring an asymmetrical joystick positioning that caters to a more ergonomic grip. The controller weighs 300 g, offering a balanced feel during extended gaming sessions. With a width of 120 mm, height of 160 mm, and thickness of 65 mm, it is designed to fit comfortably in the hands without feeling bulky. Notably, the controller does not include textured triggers or bumpers, ensuring a smooth and consistent button press experience.

Buttons:

number of buttons 16
has paddle buttons
has button mapping
Thumbstick type Analog
has hall effect triggers
has interchangeable thumbsticks
has adaptive triggers
has an integrated touchpad

The Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave features a total of 16 buttons, including paddle buttons for additional control options. The controller also offers button mapping, allowing for customization of button functions to suit personal preferences. It uses analog thumbsticks for a precise and responsive feel, but does not include interchangeable thumbsticks or adaptive triggers. Additionally, it does not have a built-in touchpad or support for adaptive triggers, ensuring a straightforward, traditional button setup for a reliable gaming experience.

Power & Connectivity:

Power type Cable-only
connection type USB
compatibility Xbox, PC

The Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave is designed with a cable-only power type, meaning it must be connected via USB to function. It offers a USB connection type for reliable data transfer and compatibility. This controller is fully compatible with both Xbox and PC, ensuring versatile use across popular gaming platforms.

Features:

has gyroscopic aiming
includes a charging dock
release date May 2025
travel bag is included
Has dual force feedback
onboard memory profiles 4
has a built-in speaker
has a built-in microphone
has a socket for a 3.5 mm audio jack
warranty period 1 years

The Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave includes several useful features for a dynamic gaming experience. It offers dual force feedback for enhanced immersion, and supports 4 onboard memory profiles, allowing players to store custom settings. While it does not include a gyroscopic aiming system, charging dock, or travel bag, it does feature a 3.5mm audio jack for headset connectivity. The controller is backed by a 1-year warranty for peace of mind during use.

Final Verdict

The Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave is a solid choice for gamers seeking a responsive, wired controller with customizable features. Its 16 buttons, paddle buttons, and 4 onboard memory profiles provide great flexibility for different gaming setups, while the 3.5mm audio jack ensures easy headset compatibility. However, its reliance on a cable-only power type and lack of advanced features like adaptive triggers or gyroscopic aiming may limit its appeal for those looking for more cutting-edge functionality. Overall, this controller offers a well-rounded experience for Xbox and PC players who prioritize customization and practicality.