Side by side

Handheld Companion vs HYDRA

Both stand on pc overclocking software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

Handheld Companion

Free plan Windows

Handheld Companion combines input mapping, motion controls, game profiles, and device adjustments in a free Windows app. Check Windows and device compatibility before installing, especially on Steam Deck.

Visit Handheld Companion

HYDRA

Free plan APIWindows

HYDRA brings diagnostics and tuning tools for multiple hardware components into one Windows toolkit. Consider the paid Patreon tiers, Early Access access rules, and motherboard support requirement before choosing it.

Visit HYDRA

The facts

	Handheld Companion	HYDRA
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Open source	Not published	Not published
Runs on	Windows	API, Windows
Lowest paid plan	Free or on request	HYDRA PRO Early Access: $15 a month
Plans published	1	3
Maker	Not published	Not published
Website	handheldcompanion.net	patreon.com
On pc overclocking software	#13 of 31	#9 of 31

Handheld Companion: what it does well

Maps inputs to keyboard, mouse, joystick, triggers, or virtual controllers
Motion controls support aiming, camera control, racing, and emulators
QuickTools covers performance and device settings
Can apply preferences automatically for the active game
Free public release for Windows 10/11 on x86 and x64

What to know first

Not a SteamOS application
Installer must run as administrator
Device behavior can vary with Windows builds, firmware, and controller software

HYDRA: what it does well

Covers CPU, GPU, and memory analysis.
Includes game and multithreaded CPU profiles.
MemBench estimates per-core DRAM bandwidth.
Supports Radeon and GeForce diagnostics.
Includes PresentMon sensors and RTSS integration.

What to know first

Windows only.
No free plan.
Early Access downloads require its specific plan.
Antivirus false positives are a listed issue.

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