GameSir Cyclone 2 controller review – a solid Switch alternative for Xbox fans

We’re actually spoiled for selection on the subject of third-party controllers as of late, however GameSir continues to carve out a substantial fame for all of your accent wants. The GameSir Cyclone 2 is the most recent addition to the spectacular Cyclone collection, evolving from earlier releases such because the GameSir Cyclone T4 controller.

GameSir has put its consideration on the fitting refinements to supply a wonderful Xbox-style different that sits with the most effective cellphone controllers and finest Nintendo Change controllers obtainable.

There are many the reason why numerous manufacturers have replicated the Xbox controller in lots of varieties over time, however what it actually comes all the way down to is a snug kind issue. GameSir’s latest Cyclone addition makes that instantly clear from the primary contact, introducing you to its granulated grips and textured triggers.

If I wasn’t already accustomed to the load of the present Xbox Collection X|S controller, I’d assume Microsoft itself had crafted the Cyclone from construct high quality alone. It evokes a premium high quality from the get-go, letting me know that even within the sweatiest of gaming classes – win or lose – this controller gained’t slip out of my hand anytime quickly. Look-wise, the Cyclone 2 is available in a glossy black end, or there’s the Phantom White variant accentuated by highlights from the golden d-pad and orange stick underlays.

Whereas the GameSir Cyclone 2 isn’t able to Microsoft antics, it does boast multiplatform assist for Nintendo Change, iOS, Android, and PC. Shedding the necessity for pointless spools of cables like with equipment from rivals like Energy-A, the Cyclone 2 is a plug-and-play champ that will get straight all the way down to enterprise. Connection to any of the suitable units is easy, instantaneously recognizing what gadget is prepped to dive into your favourite FPS video games or a cheeky battle royale sport session.  To place the controller to the take a look at, I first related it to my Nintendo Change Lite wirelessly.

Bluetooth pairing is simply as simple, though it does yield some fascinating outcomes. Utilizing the controller on my Mac Mini displayed it as a DualShock 4 controller, whereas my expertise on the Asus ROG Ally – the most effective Steam Deck options – accurately exhibits up because the Cyclone. You may pair the controller by holding the again left set off and one of many ABYX buttons, relying on which gadget you’d prefer to sync with.

I’ve gone by way of my justifiable share of controllers in recent times, dreading the day stick drift involves eat the soul of my Pleasure-Cons. GameSir seeks to keep away from this with its personal Magazine-Res TMR sticks. Providing sturdiness akin to Corridor Impact sticks, motion in titles like Fortnite or ARPG sport titan Warframe retains the snappy feeling it ought to. Like the feel discovered elsewhere on the controller, GameSir’s TMR sticks make the most of the identical granulated materials, making certain your intention gained’t be off the mark. Nevertheless, the Cyclone 2’s triggers are a bit of disappointing.

GameSir consists of completely different modes for the triggers, alternating between customary and hair set off mode. You activate the latter by utilizing the ‘M’ button on the controller’s face, enabling faster activation within the warmth of the motion when the set off senses weight on it. I admire the swooped design of the triggers, however their resistance is usually unsatisfying – though you’ll be able to not less than alter the sensitivity within the Gamesir Join Software program app. We already know that nailing triggers is in GameSir’s wheelhouse, like in our GameSir X3 Professional overview. So, it’s stunning to see this component considerably misplaced in translation.

The place the triggers falter, the Cyclone 2’s rumble performance is pleasingly impactful. Moreover, every of the Cyclone 2’s ABYX buttons are micro switches, emitting a beautiful tactile feeling like most of the finest gaming keyboards.

In the event you’re seeking to actually tweak your expertise, GameSir’s Join Software program is your one-stop store for personalization. Whether or not you’re desirous to fiddle with the lifeless zone of the TMR sticks, rear set off bindings, or RGB lighting, this straightforward program is all killer, no filler. Not like GameSir’s cellular app, I discovered this utility far much less liable to points. In terms of longevity, that is simply one of many Cyclone 2’s largest strengths. Backed by an 860mAH battery, it handles lengthy playthroughs with relative ease. Over the course of testing this controller, I discovered that I’d solely wanted to cost it up totally each two to 3 days, relying on how lengthy I’d been enjoying for.

Fortunately, charging it’s a painless course of, as you’ll be able to place Cyclone 2 on its glossy steel charging stand. Retailing for $55.99/£55.99 or $49.99/£49.99 for simply the controller alone, it was stunning to see such a high-quality stand included contemplating that the Nintendo Change Professional controller sells for the same value with no such accent bundled in. Powered by a USB-C cable that plugs into the rear of the stand, the Cyclone 2 sits fairly to cost wirelessly alongside a port to retailer its USB-A dongle.

Whether or not I used to be squadding up on cellular, PC, or console, the GameSir Cyclone 2 proved to be an reasonably priced different that may stand proudly alongside the massive canines within the controller area. Regardless of my reservations about its triggers, the Cyclone 2 is a sturdy Xbox-like choice, providing nice ranges of customization and very good battery life.

For extra GameSir rundowns, you’ll be able to try our GameSir T4 Cyclone overview, GameSir G8+ bluetooth controller overview, GameSir X4 Alerion overview. We’ve additionally bought guides for the most effective gaming iPhone, the most effective moveable gaming consoles, and the most effective gaming cellphone choices round.