Nacon Hard Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch 2: review
The Nacon Hard Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch 2 is a reasonably priced case for the handheld console. It offers storage not only for the console itself but also most of its accessories, as well as a handful of Switch games cartridges. So how does it feel in use?
Generally, I’ve found it holds up well. The bright Mario red feels suitably attention-grabbing without being gaudy – I wouldn’t be embarrassed pulling it out on my commute, and it doesn’t remotely feel at odds with the premium console inside. I've seen similar materials getting scuffed or dirty after months of being thrust into a backpack, but in all the time I’ve spent carting it round so far it’s maintained that vibrant hue without picking up any marks.
Given the name of the product, I’d kind of assumed it had been designed with the Nintendo Switch 2 in mind. But if you actually try to place the console in the molded inner tray Nacon has supplied, you quickly realize that it’s far too small, because it’s shaped to fit the original Switch. You can remove this and the Switch 2 will sit snugly in the base of the case, but it’s not quite as well fitted around the console’s Joy-Con 2, which is something I would expect from one of the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories.
Despite this, the Nacon Hard Carrying Case seems sturdy and well constructed. Even squeezed in a bag with my work laptop and climbing gear, it seems to be able to protect the Switch 2 well and keep its shape, even while it's under pressure. I never really felt I had to worry about the safety of my Switch 2 when it was in the Nacon and that’s the kind of peace of mind you’re looking for when picking up a case.
When it comes to additional storage, the Hard Carrying Case has a decent amount of space. The main compartment is capacious enough that I was able to squeeze in the Joy-Con 2 Grip, the Switch 2’s charger and an HDMI cable. Pretty much the only thing I was unable to fit was the console’s dock but if you’re desperate to take this on the go with you, something like the Nacon XL Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch 2 should offer sufficient space for this.
(Image credit: Future)
I did occasionally find myself wishing that some of this storage could be better laid out however. I was never that clear what the central pocket was intended for, given it was too small for most accessories but felt an odd fit for loose cabling. Equally, the Nacon’s storage for Switch 2 cartridges is pretty limited – you can fit a maximum of four cards in its little bandolier, which feels like it will fill up fast.
All told though, the Nacon Hard Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch 2 feels like a reliable way to keep your Switch 2 safe and offers a pretty attractive package while it does so. Particularly when you consider its price: at $14.90 / £12.90 (around AU$25), this case very much sits at the more affordable end of the market. So if you’re looking for a cheap way to keep your Switch 2 safe and you’re not too fussy about odd details, this is a decent choice.
(Image credit: Future)
Nacon Hard Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch 2 review: specs
Price
$14.90 / £12.90
Dimensions
12 x 5.9 x 1.9 inches (305 x 150 x 50mm)
Weight
14.5oz (412g)
Number of game card slots
4
Compartments
2
Handle
Yes
Color
Red, black or blue
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Nacon Hard Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch 2?
Design
Decent understated looks, hardy construction; while it comfortably fits the Switch 2, the removable molded tray is only compatible with the original Switch.
4 / 5
Storage
Very few game cartridge slots, no space for Switch 2 Dock, not clear what every pocket is for.
3.5 / 5
Value
Only a few cases come cheaper than this and given what you’re paying for it, it does pretty much everything you could ask of it.
5 / 5
Buy it if…
You need a hard case for not much cash At $14.90 / £12.90 (around AU$25), this is very much at the cheaper end of the market. If you only care about protecting your Switch 2 without all the extras, it’s a great choice.
You want an attractive accessory While its style is minimalist, I do think the red and black colorway looks sharp, without garishly advertising what it is. If understated looks are your bag, it should suit you to a T.
Don’t buy it if…
You have a huge physical games collection As it only offers four slots for Switch cartridges, you’re heavily limited as to how much of your collection you can take on the road. So if you mostly own physical games, you might want to look elsewhere.
You want to take absolutely everything with you While the Hard Carrying Case can fit a fair number of accessories inside, you’re not going to be able to bring your dock with you, meaning it’s less handy for bringing to a friend’s house or visiting a holiday cottage.
The Logitech G522 Lightspeed is a very strong contender in the mid-range price bracket, delivering impressive audio performance.
Sound is crisp and clear, which makes it a good fit for everything from competitive shooters like Marvel Rivalsand Counter-Strike 2to more immersive single-player experiences à la The Last of Us Part 1. The headphones also support DTX Headphone:X on PC, provided you install the separate DTS Sound Unbound app, which offers very strong spatial audio.
My one complaint is that the bass is quite flat out of the box. It’s not bad by any means, but makes punchier music sound a little lifeless. Luckily, this is easily fixed with a quick trip to the expansive Logitech G Hub software which offers in-depth EQ customization with the option to select from a number of preset profiles, download settings from the community, or create your own.
The removable microphone is also no slouch, with high-quality sound to rival some of the best microphones for streaming. Whether you’re chatting with friends, communicating with your online team, or sending a quick voice message, it offers pristine, professional recordings that mean you won’t ever struggle to come through clearly.
It’s all wrapped up in a stylish design with a soft, adjustable headband and comfortable memory foam earcups. There are even two attractive RGB lighting zones on the outside of each earcup, both offering four LEDs that can be adjusted with a wide range of colors and animations. The headset feels good to wear, but does tend to look quite big and bulky on camera - and might be a poor fit if you have a particularly small head.
In spite of this, it’s easy to recommend the Logitech G522 Lightspeed. It manages to rival some of the best PC gaming headsets right now and, thanks to its PlayStation compatibility, is up there with the best PS5 headsets too.
(Image credit: Future)
Logitech G522 Lightspeed: Price and availability
Costs $159.99 / £139.99 / AU$229
Available via Logitech
Also at Amazon and other retailers
The Logitech G522 Lightspeed costs $159.99 / £139.99 and is available via Logitech. It can also be purchased from a wide range of retailers including Amazon and Best Buy in the US and Amazon, Currys and Argos in the UK. In Australia, it can be purchased at Amazon.
Its biggest competitors are the likes of the Razer BlackShark V3 or SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless - which both deliver similarly good audio performance. The stronger microphone and unique look of the Logitech G522 Lightspeed make it a good alternative, however, and give you a compelling reason to choose it instead.
Logitech G522 Lightspeed: Specs
Price
$159.99 / £139.99 / AU$229
Weight
10.23oz / 290g
Compatibility
PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Android, iOS
Connection type
Bluetooth, Lightspeed Wireless, Wired USB-C
Battery life
40 hrs (default lighting), 90hrs (RGB off)
Features
Detachable 48kHz / 16 bit omni microphone, Lightsync RGB
Software
Logitech G Hub (PC) / Logitech G app (mobile)
Logitech G522 Lightspeed: Design and features
Attractive white or black colorways
Comfortable, soft earcups
Looks a bit bulky
Like other Logitech G headsets, the Logitech G522 Lightspeed is primarily constructed from plastic.
Despite this it doesn’t seem particularly cheap in the hands, though alternatives like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 do feel slightly more premium thanks to the incorporation of metal elements.
It’s not the lightest headset around at 10.23oz / 290g, but still manages to be extremely comfortable thanks to its large, cushioned over-ear earcups and adjustable cloth headband.
All of the expected controls are present, which is to say a power switch (accompanied by a small LED indicator), Bluetooth pairing button, a volume rocker, and microphone mute switch. I really appreciate the simplicity of this setup in a world of gaming headsets filled with extraneous features.
They’re all in one convenient location on the outside of the left earcup and the buttons are well spaced out with a variety of different tactile feels, like ridges on the microphone mute button, that make the controls easy to operate without looking.
There’s also a standard USB Type-C port for both charging and wired play, plus a small 3.5mm to attach the removable microphone. It’s made of a flexible, rubbery material that can be twisted into your desired position and even features a small red LED on its tip that illuminates when the microphone is muted - a convenient way to check its status at a glance
(Image credit: Future)
The headset offers Bluetooth connectivity, ideal if you want to use it with your phone or a Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2, and comes with a USB dongle to enable Logitech’s proprietary Lightspeed wireless connectivity.
The headset is available in both white and black colorways. Each offers customizable RGB lighting on the outside of the earcup, with a total of eight light zones that you can tweak. It’s a great looking headset on the whole, but definitely on the larger and more bulky side when worn.
It looks massive on my head, which is fine for gaming but makes it a bit awkward to wear to video meetings. Thankfully this doesn't affect the comfort.
(Image credit: Future)
Logitech G522 Lightspeed: Performance
The Logitech G522 Lightspeed offers good performance out of the box, whether you’re playing on PC or PS5. It’s quick and easy to set up and delivers clear and crisp sound with an impressive level of depth. My only real complaint is that the bass is on the flatter side, but this is only really noticeable when you’re listening to music or playing a game with a particularly punchy soundtrack.
Thankfully, this is easy to remedy in the compatible Logitech G Hub software as it offers an impressive number of customization options including the ability to create your own detailed equaliser (EQ) setting. I’d personally recommend cranking the low frequencies (20Hz, 50Hz and 125Hz) up by 3dB, 2dB, and 1dB respectively then adding 0.5dB at the higher end for a well-rounded sound profile that excels no matter what you throw at it.
There are also a number of presets available, including a bass boost mode, gaming mode, dedicated FPS mode, and a media mode, plus the option to browse and download a number of community creations. You can save up to three profiles directly on the headset too, so once you’ve found your favorite setup you can carry it across to any platform with ease.
The headset is also fully compatible with DTS Headphone:X spatial audio, which is turned on through the separate DTS Sound Unbound PC app. Turning it on leads to a slightly sharper and louder sound, but the trade-off is accompanied by a much more immersive sense of depth that’s ideal for atmospheric, single-player gaming.
This level of fine tuning also extends to the microphone, which is an impressively high-fidelity 48kHz beast. It picks up your voice clearly and cleanly, though tends to let in background noise. Enabling the noise reduction features in the Logitech G Hub software cleans this up tremendously though, and leaves you with stellar results suitable for chatting on a call or even streaming.
(Image credit: Logitech)
In terms of battery life, the Logitech G522 Lightspeed isn’t shabby but certainly not as strong as market leaders like the absurd 300+ hour battery of the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless. Logitech promises up to 90 hours with RGB disabled, or 40 hours with it on, but these estimates seem on the conservative side.
I generally managed well over 40 hours of use (with RGB enabled) which is going to be more than enough for most. I’ve only needed to charge this headset a few times in the multiple months that I’ve been using it, so I’ve got no complaints here.
Should I buy the Logitech G522 Lightspeed?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if...
You want a strong performer With clear and crisp sound right out of the box, the Logitech G522 Lightspeed is an excellent choice if you’re after great performance. A few tweaks to its audio profile in the compatible software makes it sound even better, too.
You need a killer mic The microphone delivers fantastic, high-fidelity recordings. It’s really excellent, especially at this price, and would be a good fit for those that love chatting with friends or streaming.
You crave the spatial audio The Logitech G522 Lightspeed is fully compatible with DTX Headphone:X spatial audio so is worth getting if you’re keen to get into the immersive world of spatial sound.
Don't buy it if...
You’re after more features The Logitech G522 Lightspeed has a no-nonsense feature set, but if you’re after something more adventurous or the likes of active noise cancellation (ANC), you need to look at other options such as the more expensive Razer BlackShark V3 Pro.
Also consider...
Not sold on the Logitech G522 Lightspeed? Here are two other options to weigh up.
Logitech G522 Lightspeed
Razer BlackShark V3 Pro
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5
Price
$159.99 / £139.99 / AU$229
$249.99 / £249.99 / around AU$510
$129.99 / £129.99 / AU$139.95
Weight
0.63lbs / 290g
0.81lbs / 367g
9.5oz / 266g
Compatibility
PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Android, iOS
PC, Xbox Series X, PS5 (Xbox version), PC and PS5 (PC/PS5 version), iOS, Android
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mac, Mobile
Connection type
Bluetooth, Lightspeed Wireless, Wired USB-C
Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless (HyperSpeed dongle)
Wireless (2.4GHz via dongle), Wired (USB-C), Bluetooth 5.3
Battery life
40 hrs (default lighting), 90hrs (RGB off)
70 hours
Up to 60 hours
Features
Detachable 48kHz / 16 bit omni microphone, Lightsync RGB
Detachable microphone, hybrid active noise cancellation
360-degree spatial audio, retractable ClearCast 2.X mic
Software
Logitech G Hub (PC) / Logitech G app (mobile)
Razer Synapse
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Companion App (mobile), SteelSeries GG
Razer BlackShark V3 Pro The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro is more expensive than the Logitech G522 Lightspeed, but offers Active Noise Cancellation. There’s also a dedicated Xbox version, which is compatible with every major platform.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Coming in at roughly the same price as the Logitech G522 Lightspeed, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 is the mid-range headset to beat. The G522 has a better microphone, but the Nova 5 is more widely compatible and lighter.
I tested the Logitech G522 for multiple months, using a sample provided by Logitech at a pre-reveal product briefing. I tested the headset extensively with both PC and PS5, using it for the vast majority of my gaming. Most recently this included my full playthrough of Mafia: The Old Country, plenty of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, and more.
Throughout my time with the headset, I compared my experience to that of my hands-on testing of a wide range of other audio products. This included similarly priced options like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5, plus more expensive alternatives such as the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro and Astro A50 X.
I took full advantage of the compatible Logitech G Hub software, experimenting with all of the available settings and customization options in order to assess their performance.
If you’re searching for a no-nonsense gamepad to use with your phone, then the Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller is a solid choice. It’s light on features compared to some of the best mobile controllers out there, but it delivers good performance where it counts.
It’s only available with a USB Type-C connector, but is fully compatible with both iOS and Android out of the box. It can fit a wide range of devices too, ranging all the way from the iPhone 15 or most small Android phones to bigger options like the iPhone 15 Pro Max. It even comfortably fits an iPad mini or a small Android gaming tablet like the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3.
This is a huge advantage given its compact size, as tablet compatibility is normally reserved for larger models like the Razer Kishi Ultra.
Its thumbsticks are on the smaller side, but they’re perfectly smooth and responsive. The face buttons are a little mushy, especially when compared to the mechanical ones found on the competing Backbone One 2nd Gen, but thankfully never impacted in-game performance in my testing.
Aesthetically, the Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller is on the basic side but elevated by small decals and red highlights. Its plastic and rubber construction is also nothing special, but it keeps the weight down and feels suitably robust for the price.
Although it lacks a headphone jack, which is a shame, the inclusion of pass-through charging is a win. It supports 18W fast charging when you’re using a compatible plug, too, which makes keeping your device topped up while you play a breeze.
(Image credit: Future)
Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller: Price and availability
Only available in the UK
RRP of £79.99
Easy to find for less than £70
The Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller is currently available in the UK with no official word on a US release quite yet. It is available via the Acer website for £79.99 (around $100 / AU$165), but can easily be found cheaper.
At Very, for example, it costs just £69.99 (around $90 / AU$145), which is a very competitive price and comfortably undercuts the £99.99 Backbone One 2nd Gen (when that latter controller is not on sale).
Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller: Specs
Price
£79.99 (around $100 / AU$165)
Dimensions
2.5 x 4.4 x 6.2in / 64 x 112 x 157mm
Weight
0.4lbs / 195.6g
Connection type
Wired (Type-C)
Compatibility
iPhone 15 Series, Android
Software
N/A
(Image credit: Future)
Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller: Design and features
Folding design
Compact and light
Fits a lot of devices
The Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller clearly takes a lot of inspiration from the successful Backbone One, with a similar overall form factor and design. It’s two halves of a small controller separated by an extending mechanism that holds your phone.
Unlike the Backbone One, however, the Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller can fold in at two points, making it easier to store and transport. This folding mechanism also has the benefit of increasing device compatibility, as it allows you to more easily fit it around larger phones or small tablets.
All the expected buttons are present, with a soft, rounded D-pad and conventional face buttons. The face buttons are on the spongy side, which is a shame, but by no means a dealbreaker. The start, select, home, and capture (that’s the little red one on the right-hand side) buttons, in contrast, are much more tactile and responsive and feel better to press.
The only other notable element on the front is a small indicator LED, which illuminates when your phone is connected. On the bottom of the right-hand grip, you will also find a Type-C connector that is used for pass-through charging. The controller supports 18W fast charging, making it very easy to keep your phone full of juice as you play.
At just 0.4lbs / 195.6g, it feels very light, but importantly, not cheap or poorly made. The plastic and rubber here isn’t quite as premium as that found on the Backbone One, but this seems fair given the difference in price.
(Image credit: Future)
Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller: Performance
No software required
Small but comfortable
Easy to transport
The Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller does not require any software. Simply plug in your phone or tablet and you’re ready to go. On one hand, I appreciate the simplicity of this. Sometimes, you really do just want something that will work perfectly out of the box without the need for any fiddling.
On the other hand, I do miss the many customization options offered by competitors. If you crave the ability to remap buttons or tweak the dead zones of the thumbsticks, for example, this is decidedly not the controller for you.
That aside, performance is good. The controller is small, but still suitably comfortable in the hands. Its analog triggers respond well in fast-paced games like Zenless Zone Zero or Call of Duty Mobile, and the mushy face buttons never falter under even the most rapid inputs. Alternatives like the Asus ROG Tessen perform noticeably better thanks to their more tactile buttons, but come in at a higher price.
The thumbsticks, while small, have a decent range of motion similar to those found on the original Joy-Con Controllers and are therefore a decent fit for most games. They do not seem to be using Hall effect sensors, though, which is unfortunate and seems like a missed opportunity for an easy win.
When the controller is not in use, its folding design and light weight make it easy to transport. I’ve been taking it around in my bag for weeks and have honestly sometimes even forgotten that it’s in there. It can even comfortably fit into the large front pockets of my coat, though your mileage in this regard may vary.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller?
Buy it if...
You want a simple, no-nonsense mobile gamepad The Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller is one of the simplest mobile controllers that I’ve ever tested. It works out of the box with both Android and iOS, making it a good choice for those who don’t want to mess around with complicated software or extra features.
You need a compact option for a tablet The Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller is one of the few models that works with the iPad mini or a small Android tablet. Its small size sets it apart from the rest, so pick it up if you want a tablet-compatible controller that’s easy to transport.View Deal
Don't buy it if...
You rely on more features Aside from its pass-through charging, the Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller has no real features to speak of. Choose something else if you want remappable buttons, RGB lighting, or proper software.
Also consider
These two alternatives are slightly pricier than the Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller, but offer greater functionality.
Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller
Asus ROG Tessen
Backbone One 2nd Gen
Price
£79.99 (around $100 / AU$165)
$109.99 / £109.99 / AU$179
$99.99 / £99.99 / AU$179.99
Dimensions
2.5 x 4.4 x 6.2in / 64 x 112 x 157mm
7.5 x 3.6 x 1.5in / 191.5 x 92 x 40mm
6.93 x 3.70 x 1.34in / 176 x 94 x 34mm
Weight
0.4lbs / 195.6g
0.29 lbs / 136g
0.30 lbs / 138g
Connection type
Wired (Type-C)
Wired (Type-C)
Wired (Type-C / Lightning)
Compatibility
iPhone 15 Series, Android
Android
iPhone 15 Series, Android / iPhone 14 series, and earlier
Software
N/A
Armoury Crate (Android)
Backbone App
Asus ROG Tessen The Asus ROG Tessen is a fantastic choice for mobile FPS gaming. It boasts tactile face buttons, a folding design similar to that of the Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller, customizable RGB strips, and even remappable rear paddles made from durable metal.
Backbone One 2nd Gen The Backbone One 2nd Gen is a fantastic all-round choice. It’s more expensive than the Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller, but it feels more premium and is compatible with the superb Backbone App.
How I tested the Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller
Tested for multiple weeks
Tried with both Android and iOS
Used in a range of games
I tested the Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller over multiple months, using it as my primary mobile gaming controller. During that time, I tried it with both Android and iOS devices, mainly my iPhone 15 Plus and Porsche Design Honor Magic 7 RSR. I also tried the controller with my compact Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 gaming tablet.
I used the controller to play a wide range of games, including Call of Duty Mobile and Zenless Zone Zero, in addition to the likes of Hitman: Blood Money Reprisal, and more. Throughout my time with the controller, I compared its performance to my hands-on testing of many other mobile controllers, such as the Backbone One 2nd Gen, Turtle Beach Atom, Scuf Nomad, and Razer Kishi Ultra.
The GuliKit Elves 2 Pro is heavily inspired by the Sega Saturn gamepad, yet it’s embellished with enough modern-day features to make it playable with today’s games and platforms.
Its soft curves look good, as did the colorway I had, with its retro off-white base and multicolored accents. It’s also available in all-black, which lends it a more menacing appearance.
Its shape is more than just for show: it also helps with ergonomics. It fitted the contours of the hand very well, and I found the pronounced dips housing the face buttons and D-pad made it easy to use those inputs.
However, the small overall size of the Elves 2 Pro, coupled with the short length of handles, might deter those who prefer something more substantial. In this regard, the Elves 2 Pro falls short of the best PC controllers.
The build quality, on the other hand, is level with those gamepads. The chassis feels sturdy, and all the buttons are solid yet easy to press. The analog sticks are of a similarly high standard, although they’re shallower and have a smaller traveling circumference than many other modern controllers.
Despite the lack of customization software, there are a surprising number of tweaks you can make on the fly. There’s a settings button that’s used in conjunction with other buttons to adjust various parameters, such as stick sensitivity, D-pad modes, and the Motion Aim Assist.
In action, the Elves 2 Pro performs better than its looks might lead you to believe. The buttons are snappy and responsive, although they’re less damped than you might expect, but satisfying nonetheless. The D-pad is the real highlight, with its thick, circular design allowing for precise inputs and easy rolls without mis-presses – aspects that make it great for fighting games.
Despite their small size, the analog sticks are also a joy to use, with plenty of tactility and accuracy. When I tested the Elves 2 Pro on my Nintendo Switch, I also found the motion controls to be very accurate, although the tracking was worse when using the Motion Aim Assist mode in PC games.
Connectivity is good, and the Bluetooth seemed reliable. Switching between various devices on the fly can be a bother, though, requiring re-pairing at times. Battery life is admirable, lasting for several days in my experience.
The Elves 2 Pro sits somewhere in the middle of the third-party wireless controller market. However, it’s a little disappointing that it lacks certain common features, such as analog triggers, 2.4GHz connectivity, and companion software.
There are better value rivals that offer greater versatility, but if you want a good balance between retro design and modern performance, the Elves 2 Pro is a fine example in the space.
(Image credit: Future)
GuliKit Elves 2 Pro review: Price and availability
$49.99 / £59.99 (about AU$76)
Available now in two colorways
Middling value compared to rivals
The GuliKit Elves 2 Pro costs $49.99 / £59.99 (about AU$76) and is available now in two colorways: Retro and Black. It comes with a USB-C cable for charging.
This is a middling price for a wireless third-party controller. The multiplatform support is nice to have at this price point, but it’s a shame there are no analog triggers, no 2.4.GHz option, and no software.
You can find more controllers for the same price or less with more features. The GameSir Cyclone 2, for instance, has superior TMR sticks and Hall effect analog triggers, as well as both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connectivity options. It also has a shape similar to the best Xbox controllers, which means it should accommodate more hand sizes.
If you want a gamepad with even more retro appeal, though, Retro-Bit’s Sega Saturn Wireless Pro Controller is probably the better pick. This costs about the same as the Elves 2 Pro, but has the advantage of 2.4GHz connectivity, and it even works with the original Sega Saturn console.
GuliKit Elves 2 Pro review: specs
Price
$49.99 / £59.99 (about AU$76)
Dimensions
5.8 x 3.4 x 1.8in / 147 x 87 x 45mm
Weight
6.7oz / 190g
Compatibility
PC, Nintendo Switch, Android and iOS
Connection type
Wireless (Bluetooth), wired (USB-C)
Battery life
About 20 hours
Software
None
(Image credit: Future)
GuliKit Elves 2 Pro review: design and features
Retro looks
Small with short handles
Surprising number of on-board tweaks
The Elves 2 Pro leans heavily into the retro aesthetic, aping the Sega Saturn controller from 30 years ago. I liked the finish of my review unit, with its off-white base offset nicely by the red shoulder buttons and multicolored face buttons. An all-black colorway is also available, though, if you’d prefer something a bit more menacing.
It’s also just as small as an old controller, which might be a problem for larger hands. I found the handles too short to get a sufficient grip on them, which contrasts drastically with many modern controllers. The diminutive size does at least help with portability, and so does the lightweight construction.
Thankfully, the Elves 2 Pro has plenty of modern touches to redress the balance: the layout is fit for contemporary games, complete as it is with two analog sticks and two shoulder buttons. However, the triggers lack analog capability, which keeps the Elves 2 Pro somewhat rooted in the past – although Nintendo fans won’t be phased by this omission.
Overall build quality is impressive. Despite its light frame, the Elves 2 Pro feels sturdy, while the buttons are solid yet light to press. I also liked the craters on either side housing the face buttons and D-pad, which make for more comfortable thumb placement.
(Image credit: Future)
The analog sticks feel premium, and their soft coating helps with grip. They’re smaller and shallower than those on many other controllers, but I found them to be a good fit for my thumbs nonetheless.
There are a few buttons related to connectivity, which are clear and easy to use. There’s a pairing button on the front and a selector switch on the back to choose the appropriate platform for the Elves 2 Pro to work with.
There’s also a settings button on the front that works in combination with other buttons to give you access to an admirable number of tweaks. You can alter stick sensitivity and vibration modes, as well as swap the A and B buttons with X and Y, and toggle the D-pad between four- or eight-direction mode.
You can also adjust parameters for the Motion Aim Assist on PC and set up Continuous Fire mode. What’s more, there’s a dedicated button on the pad for the Auto Pilot Gaming (APG) mode, which is GuliKit’s name for its macro function. You can record 10 minutes-worth of inputs, which is quite astonishing, by holding this button for three seconds, and playback the sequence by pressing the same APG button. Double-tapping the button lets you play back the macro on a continuous loop.
GuliKit Elves 2 Pro review: performance
Snappy and responsive buttons
Excellent D-pad
Inconsistent device switching
The overall performance of the Elves 2 Pro is pretty good. The face buttons are responsive and satisfying to use, despite their lack of dampening relative to many other controllers.
The sticks also feel as smooth and as accurate as you would expect given their Hall effect technology, and I personally didn’t find their small size and confined travel an issue – but hardcore console FPS fans might feel differently.
However, it’s the D-pad that stands out most on the Elves 2 Pro. Personally, I usually prefer pronged hats rather than circular ones, as I tend to find them more accurate and less prone to unintended inputs.
But the Elves 2 Pro’s are an exception, as it allows for easy multi-directional rolls while maintaining high levels of accuracy, which I certainly welcomed when playing Tekken 8. It's also well-damped and has a light actuation, which makes it effortless to use.
I also found the motion controls to be excellent when playing The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on Switch, matching the performance of the best Nintendo Switch controllers in this department. You can also turn on motion controls when playing PC games by activating the Motion Aim Assist mode.
(Image credit: Future)
This allows the gyroscope to replace right stick movements when either L or ZL is held (your typical aim-down-sights buttons). However, when I played Atomfall on PC, the motion controls failed to track with anything like the same levels of accuracy as when using motion controls on Switch.
The Elves 2 Pro’s lack of 2.4GHz connectivity might deter those after pro-level performance, since this standard generally provides better response times. However, I can’t say I experienced any notable lag over Bluetooth with this gamepad, on any platform.
Connecting to various systems is also easy. I had no issues pairing the Elves 2 Pro to my Nintendo Switch or PC. It also connected to my Android phone with the same ease as the best mobile controllers.
Hot-swapping between PC and Switch was also a cinch, requiring a mere flick of the underside selector switch. However, switching between my phone and Switch for some reason proved more onerous, as I had to re-pair the Elves 2 Pro with my Switch. Thankfully, due to the aforementioned pairing process, this isn’t too bothersome, but it’s an aspect worth pointing out all the same.
The battery life of the Elves 2 Pro is admirable, lasting several days according to my testing. GuliKit claims it can last up to 20 hours, and I’m inclined to believe this figure.
Should I buy the GuliKit Elves 2 Pro?
Buy it if...
You’re feeling nostalgic The retro charm of the Elves 2 Pro is appealing, but it’s still modern enough to cut it with today’s games.
You want a great D-pad The floating, circular D-pad is a joy to use and offers precise and rapid inputs – vital when playing fighters.
Don't buy it if...
You have large hands While the Elves 2 Pro is pleasingly ergonomic in some regards, the small size and short grips might be a problem for those who want more of a handful.
You want more features With no 2.4GHz connectivity, no analog triggers, and no software, the Elves 2 Pro might not be enough for more serious gamers or those who play a diverse range of genres.
GuliKit Elves 2 Pro review: Also consider
Here are some alternatives to the GuliKit Elves 2 Pro Controller if it doesn't sound right for you:
GuliKit Elves 2 Pro
GameSir Cyclone 2
Retro-Bit Sega Saturn Wireless Pro Controller
Price
$49.99 / £59.99 (about AU$76)
$49.99 / £49.99 / AU$79
$49.99 / £44.99 (around AU$78)
Dimensions
5.8 x 3.4 x 1.8in / 147 x 87 x 45mm
6.1 x 4.1 x 2.5in / 156 x 103 x 63mm
5.91 x 3.54 x 1.18in / 150 x 90 x 30mm
Weight
6.7oz / 190g
8.1oz / 229g
13.8oz / 390g
Compatibility
PC, Nintendo Switch, mobile
PC, Nintendo Switch, Android and iOS
PC, Nintendo Switch, Sega Saturn
Connection type
Wireless (Bluetooth), wired (USB-C)
Wireless (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz), wired (USB-C)
Wireless (2.4GHz, V2 for Sega Saturn), Wired (USB-C)
Battery life
20 hours
10 hours
15-20 hours
Software
None
GameSir Connect
None
GameSir Cyclone 2 For about the same price as the Elves 2 Pro (or even less in some territories), you could get the Cyclone 2 instead. This has TMR sticks, Hall effect analog triggers, a 2.4GHz option (in addition to Bluetooth), and software for customizing just about every parameter you can think of. Its D-pad might not be as sophisticated, but with all these features, it represents great value.
Retro-Bit Sega Saturn Wireless Pro Controller If you want to go full-retro, then the Retro-Bit Sega Saturn Wireless Pro Controller is the pad for you. Not only does it have the looks of its namesake, it also has the same layout, which includes no less than six face buttons. You do get two analog sticks as a concession to modernity, though, as well as 2.4GHz connectivity.
I tested the Elves 2 Pro for several days, during which time I used it to play multiple games on various platforms.
I played Tekken 8 on PC, which provides a stern test for D-pads and the overall responsiveness of inputs. On Nintendo Switch, I played The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which I used to test the motion controls, among other inputs. I played Atomfall on PC to test the Motion Aim Assist mode, and I played Alien: Isolation on my Google Pixel 7a to test the Elves 2 Pro’s mobile gaming credentials.
I’ve been gaming for decades across all manner of platforms, from retro consoles to the modern PC. I have experienced a number of controllers during this time, and have reviewed a diverse selection of them, too.
Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX: One-minute review
The Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX is a racing wheel designed for Xbox Series X and Series S consoles, although it’s also compatible with the Xbox One. I was immediately taken with the design of the wheel itself. It has an ergonomic shape, and the soft-grip material on the sides are comfortable and provide security. The indents that allow your thumbs to rest on are also a nice touch.
Build quality is also quite good, with the paddles being a particular highlight, rivaling what the best racing wheels have to offer. The pedal set is less impressive, but it functions as intended and remains stable on carpet floors.
The Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX is pleasingly light, too, which helps with installation, something that's further aided by the amenable clamping system and easily accessible ports. It can also be attached to racing wheel stands, although no screws are provided for this.
There’s an Xbox app for adjusting its various force feedback and sensitivity settings, but these are more basic than those provided in the software of other racing wheels, such as Thrustmaster’s. While there's also a remapping feature, this is limited to just the paddles and the two central buttons on either side of the wheel.
In action, the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX failed to impress me all that much. The steering isn’t as smooth or as precise as I would’ve liked, which seemed to be more of a problem for certain games than others. In some games, it didn’t seem to track accurately, creating a sense of lag and disconnectedness from the cars I was driving.
The force feedback isn’t particularly nuanced, either, and the light throttle pedal lacks feedback. Another issue I experienced was that my thumbs would often become trapped between the rim and the paddles when making sharp turns – an ergonomic faux pas that really shouldn’t exist.
On the face of it, the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX looks like good value considering its low price. But the performance isn’t quite there, and there are a few even cheaper wheels that perform better, such as the Thrustmaster T128. This also has the advantage of working with multiple platforms, PC included.
(Image credit: Future)
Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX review: Price and availability
$299.99 / £299.99 (around AU$460)
Reasonable price...
...but rivals are better value
The Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX costs $299.99 / £299.99 (about AU$460) and is available now for Xbox platforms only. There’s only one colorway and one wheel type.
This isn’t a bad price for a racing wheel, although there are a few that beat it. For instance, the Thrustmaster T128 is considerably cheaper, but performs much better in my opinion. Unlike the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX, the T128 is compatible with multiple platforms, too.
If you’re looking for one of the best Xbox racing wheels, the Logitech G923 sits at the top of the pile as far as we’re concerned. It's more expensive than the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX, but not by a huge margin, and offers a much better sim racing experience. It’s also compatible with PC, and a PlayStation variant is available as well.
Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX review: Specs
Price
$299.99 / £299.99 (about AU$460)
Weight
10.6lbs / 4.8kg
Features
Three-pedal set, profile switch button
Connection type
USB-A
Compatibility
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
Software
Hori FFB RWD Device Manager for Xbox
Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX review: Design and features
Ergonomic wheel shape
Good build quality
Easy to install
I was immediately taken with the wheel design of the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX. It has a comfortable thickness, and the thumb slots and soft grip material make it a pleasure to hold. The square bottom was also something I welcomed, making it easy to discern orientation at any given moment.
The buttons are of a reasonable quality, although they’re not as tactile or as damped as those you’ll find on the best Xbox controllers. Still, the thoughtful layout makes them easy to use, although the RB and LB placement – they’re in the middle of the circular button clusters on either side – felt a little unintuitive to me. Thankfully, these central buttons can be remapped.
There’s also a useful button for switching saved profiles configured in the Hori FFB RWD Device Manager Xbox app. The LED at the center of the wheel changes color depending on which of the eight profile slots you have selected.
The paddle shifters are equally well-designed, with a long but thin profile that makes them easy to get your fingers behind. Their metal material looks and feels premium as well.
Unfortunately, the pedal set looks and feels less so, with cheaper-seeming plastics and a lightness that doesn’t instill much confidence. However, I found they remained stable enough when lying on a carpet floor.
(Image credit: Future)
Installing the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX proved easy enough. The wheel base is quite light, which makes the process less laborious, while the clamp is easy to attach to a desk. A single screw is all that’s required, and it features a maneuverable lever that makes it easier to tighten. The whole process is significantly less onerous than that of certain Thrustmaster wheels I’ve tested.
Also, there are screw holes underneath the wheel base and the pedal set for fixing the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX to a racing wheel stand, although it’s a shame that the requisite M6 screws aren’t provided.
Since this is an Xbox wheel, it’s pretty much plug-and-play as far as setup is concerned, although the aforementioned Xbox app is required for firmware updates and making certain adjustments.
These adjustments aren’t as rich as those you’ll find in other racing wheel software. There’s one slider for the force feedback strength, and a couple for the deadzones and sensitivities pertaining to steering and each pedal. There are also some rebinding options for the wheel button – but only for the LB and RB buttons and the paddles.
Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX review: Performance
Inconsistent response
Numb throttle pedal
Ergonomic issue with Paddles
I found the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX was inconsistent in its performance: depending on the game I played, steering inputs ranged in their responsiveness and accuracy.
When playing Assetto Corsa, it did quite well on both of these fronts, my inputs tracking well with the in-game movements. However, steering was still a little grainy, which is especially noticeable when making small steering corrections.
Performance was worse, however, when playing Forza Motorsport. Here, the tracking seemed off, producing a lagging effect. Things improved when adjusting certain in-game settings, such as the steering linearity and self-centering parameters, but I still couldn’t completely shake the sensation of feeling disconnected from the car.
(Image credit: Future)
The force feedback also seemed worse in Forza Motorsport than in Assetto Corsa. In the former, it again felt like it wasn’t matching up with what was happening in-game. It also lacks much subtlety, jumping from no vibration to maximum intensity without much provocation – and again seeming at odds with the events taking place within the game itself.
Regardless of what game you play, there are a few notable constants. The paddles, despite being satisfyingly snappy and tactile, are too close behind the wheel. This meant that whenever I turned the wheel at angles close to and beyond 180 degrees, my thumbs would get stuck between the outer edge of the paddles and the inner edge of the wheel rim.
Also, I found the throttle a little too light, failing to provide as much feedback as I would’ve liked, although it wasn’t quite as numb as some other throttles I’ve tried. The brake pedal offers more feedback thanks to its increased resistance, but it's still relatively light.
Should I buy the Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if...
You want a good wheel design I liked the ergonomic thumb slots and soft-grip material, as well as the square-off bottom, which helps to indicate the orientation of the wheel.
You want a racing wheel that’s easy to use Installation is easy thanks to the lightweight construction and clamping system, while the companion app can set you up in no time.
Don't buy it if...
You’ll be making lots of sharp turns When making large turns, my thumbs would often get jammed between the wheel and the paddles, which is obviously concerning.
You want compatibility with multiple platforms The Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX only works on Xbox platforms, so if you’re on PlayStation or after one of the best PC racing wheels, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX review: also consider
Here are some alternatives to the Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX if you want support for more platforms:
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC
Thrustmaster T128 The T128 is a wheel designed for the budget-conscious. It might have a less-than stellar design, but it all functions well, and the performance surprised me given how cheap it is. There aren’t many better racing wheels at this price. Read our full Thrustmaster T128 review.
Logitech G923 Another big name in the racing wheel market, the Logitech G923 is a superb all-rounder. Not only is it one of the best Xbox racing wheels, we also think it’s one of the best PS5 racing wheels, thanks to the model variant that’s compatible with Sony’s console. Read our full Logitech G923 review.
How I tested the Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX
Tested for a few days
Played various racing sims
Racing wheel reviewing experience
I tested the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX for a few days on an Xbox Series X. I made sure to try out all of its features where possible and used its companion app to see what functions and adjustments it had to offer.
I played Forza Motorsport and Assetto Corsa, two racing games for Xbox offering different levels of simulation, and therefore together provide a comprehensive test for racing wheels.
I have been a fan of racing sims for decades, and have tested a number of racing wheels across a range of brands, styles, and price points.
Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX: One-minute review
The Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX is a racing wheel designed for Xbox Series X and Series S consoles, although it’s also compatible with the Xbox One. I was immediately taken with the design of the wheel itself. It has an ergonomic shape, and the soft-grip material on the sides are comfortable and provide security. The indents that allow your thumbs to rest on are also a nice touch.
Build quality is also quite good, with the paddles being a particular highlight, rivaling what the best racing wheels have to offer. The pedal set is less impressive, but it functions as intended and remains stable on carpet floors.
The Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX is pleasingly light, too, which helps with installation, something that's further aided by the amenable clamping system and easily accessible ports. It can also be attached to racing wheel stands, although no screws are provided for this.
There’s an Xbox app for adjusting its various force feedback and sensitivity settings, but these are more basic than those provided in the software of other racing wheels, such as Thrustmaster’s. While there's also a remapping feature, this is limited to just the paddles and the two central buttons on either side of the wheel.
In action, the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX failed to impress me all that much. The steering isn’t as smooth or as precise as I would’ve liked, which seemed to be more of a problem for certain games than others. In some games, it didn’t seem to track accurately, creating a sense of lag and disconnectedness from the cars I was driving.
The force feedback isn’t particularly nuanced, either, and the light throttle pedal lacks feedback. Another issue I experienced was that my thumbs would often become trapped between the rim and the paddles when making sharp turns – an ergonomic faux pas that really shouldn’t exist.
On the face of it, the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX looks like good value considering its low price. But the performance isn’t quite there, and there are a few even cheaper wheels that perform better, such as the Thrustmaster T128. This also has the advantage of working with multiple platforms, PC included.
(Image credit: Future)
Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX review: Price and availability
$299.99 / £299.99 (around AU$460)
Reasonable price...
...but rivals are better value
The Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX costs $299.99 / £299.99 (about AU$460) and is available now for Xbox platforms only. There’s only one colorway and one wheel type.
This isn’t a bad price for a racing wheel, although there are a few that beat it. For instance, the Thrustmaster T128 is considerably cheaper, but performs much better in my opinion. Unlike the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX, the T128 is compatible with multiple platforms, too.
If you’re looking for one of the best Xbox racing wheels, the Logitech G923 sits at the top of the pile as far as we’re concerned. It's more expensive than the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX, but not by a huge margin, and offers a much better sim racing experience. It’s also compatible with PC, and a PlayStation variant is available as well.
Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX review: Specs
Price
$299.99 / £299.99 (about AU$460)
Weight
10.6lbs / 4.8kg
Features
Three-pedal set, profile switch button
Connection type
USB-A
Compatibility
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
Software
Hori FFB RWD Device Manager for Xbox
Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX review: Design and features
Ergonomic wheel shape
Good build quality
Easy to install
I was immediately taken with the wheel design of the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX. It has a comfortable thickness, and the thumb slots and soft grip material make it a pleasure to hold. The square bottom was also something I welcomed, making it easy to discern orientation at any given moment.
The buttons are of a reasonable quality, although they’re not as tactile or as damped as those you’ll find on the best Xbox controllers. Still, the thoughtful layout makes them easy to use, although the RB and LB placement – they’re in the middle of the circular button clusters on either side – felt a little unintuitive to me. Thankfully, these central buttons can be remapped.
There’s also a useful button for switching saved profiles configured in the Hori FFB RWD Device Manager Xbox app. The LED at the center of the wheel changes color depending on which of the eight profile slots you have selected.
The paddle shifters are equally well-designed, with a long but thin profile that makes them easy to get your fingers behind. Their metal material looks and feels premium as well.
Unfortunately, the pedal set looks and feels less so, with cheaper-seeming plastics and a lightness that doesn’t instill much confidence. However, I found they remained stable enough when lying on a carpet floor.
(Image credit: Future)
Installing the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX proved easy enough. The wheel base is quite light, which makes the process less laborious, while the clamp is easy to attach to a desk. A single screw is all that’s required, and it features a maneuverable lever that makes it easier to tighten. The whole process is significantly less onerous than that of certain Thrustmaster wheels I’ve tested.
Also, there are screw holes underneath the wheel base and the pedal set for fixing the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX to a racing wheel stand, although it’s a shame that the requisite M6 screws aren’t provided.
Since this is an Xbox wheel, it’s pretty much plug-and-play as far as setup is concerned, although the aforementioned Xbox app is required for firmware updates and making certain adjustments.
These adjustments aren’t as rich as those you’ll find in other racing wheel software. There’s one slider for the force feedback strength, and a couple for the deadzones and sensitivities pertaining to steering and each pedal. There are also some rebinding options for the wheel button – but only for the LB and RB buttons and the paddles.
Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX review: Performance
Inconsistent response
Numb throttle pedal
Ergonomic issue with Paddles
I found the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX was inconsistent in its performance: depending on the game I played, steering inputs ranged in their responsiveness and accuracy.
When playing Assetto Corsa, it did quite well on both of these fronts, my inputs tracking well with the in-game movements. However, steering was still a little grainy, which is especially noticeable when making small steering corrections.
Performance was worse, however, when playing Forza Motorsport. Here, the tracking seemed off, producing a lagging effect. Things improved when adjusting certain in-game settings, such as the steering linearity and self-centering parameters, but I still couldn’t completely shake the sensation of feeling disconnected from the car.
(Image credit: Future)
The force feedback also seemed worse in Forza Motorsport than in Assetto Corsa. In the former, it again felt like it wasn’t matching up with what was happening in-game. It also lacks much subtlety, jumping from no vibration to maximum intensity without much provocation – and again seeming at odds with the events taking place within the game itself.
Regardless of what game you play, there are a few notable constants. The paddles, despite being satisfyingly snappy and tactile, are too close behind the wheel. This meant that whenever I turned the wheel at angles close to and beyond 180 degrees, my thumbs would get stuck between the outer edge of the paddles and the inner edge of the wheel rim.
Also, I found the throttle a little too light, failing to provide as much feedback as I would’ve liked, although it wasn’t quite as numb as some other throttles I’ve tried. The brake pedal offers more feedback thanks to its increased resistance, but it's still relatively light.
Should I buy the Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if...
You want a good wheel design I liked the ergonomic thumb slots and soft-grip material, as well as the square-off bottom, which helps to indicate the orientation of the wheel.
You want a racing wheel that’s easy to use Installation is easy thanks to the lightweight construction and clamping system, while the companion app can set you up in no time.
Don't buy it if...
You’ll be making lots of sharp turns When making large turns, my thumbs would often get jammed between the wheel and the paddles, which is obviously concerning.
You want compatibility with multiple platforms The Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX only works on Xbox platforms, so if you’re on PlayStation or after one of the best PC racing wheels, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX review: also consider
Here are some alternatives to the Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX if you want support for more platforms:
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC
Thrustmaster T128 The T128 is a wheel designed for the budget-conscious. It might have a less-than stellar design, but it all functions well, and the performance surprised me given how cheap it is. There aren’t many better racing wheels at this price. Read our full Thrustmaster T128 review.
Logitech G923 Another big name in the racing wheel market, the Logitech G923 is a superb all-rounder. Not only is it one of the best Xbox racing wheels, we also think it’s one of the best PS5 racing wheels, thanks to the model variant that’s compatible with Sony’s console. Read our full Logitech G923 review.
How I tested the Hori Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX
Tested for a few days
Played various racing sims
Racing wheel reviewing experience
I tested the Force Feedback Racing Wheel DLX for a few days on an Xbox Series X. I made sure to try out all of its features where possible and used its companion app to see what functions and adjustments it had to offer.
I played Forza Motorsport and Assetto Corsa, two racing games for Xbox offering different levels of simulation, and therefore together provide a comprehensive test for racing wheels.
I have been a fan of racing sims for decades, and have tested a number of racing wheels across a range of brands, styles, and price points.
The Thrustmaster T128 is a budget racing wheel designed for those after a beginner-friendly experience. Its looks are fairly underwhelming, with its outdated gamer stylings failing to make a great impression. The wheel itself is quite small and has a thin rim, which will suit some hands more than others.
In terms of premium design, the T128 falls short of what some rivals have to offer. While it’s certainly not flimsy, it’s hardly a premium feeling unit, with cost-saving materials employed all over.
It is at least quite light and small, which helps make installation and setup easier compared to some of the best racing wheels. I also found the clamping mechanism much better than those used on other Thrustmaster wheels I’ve tried.
However, installation is hampered somewhat by the awkward placement of the ports, which are inaccessible when the wheel base is clamped down. This means any time you want to remove or reconnect the various cables, you'll have to uninstall the wheel altogether, which is inconvenient.
What’s more, the T128 won’t install on certain dedicated stands, such as the GT Omega Apex I have, since there are no screw holes for fixing the wheel base directly to it.
Once installed, though, the T128 is quick to get going. For Xbox users, it’s a simple case of plug-and-play, although firmware updates do require a PC tool. There’s also a tool for making force feedback and other tweaks, with a generous selection of parameters considering the budget nature of the T128.
The T128 is even better in action. I was pleasantly surprised by just how responsive and connected it feels, making it joy to race with. The force feedback settings, as with other Thrustmaster wheels I’ve tried, are too strong on their highest settings for my liking, although here it’s perhaps a little weaker than usual.
The T2PM pedals are nice and light, which makes them easy to use, although the brake pedal lacks resistance, which can make it difficult to gauge how hard you’re pressing it. It’s still usable enough, though, and I didn’t have an issue with the relatively cramped layout of the pedals either.
All things considered, the T128 offers plenty of fun for the money, undercutting many other wheels and even outperforming some of Thrustmaster’s more expensive offerings. It might not have a standout design, but there aren’t too many wheels at this price that offer such a good time.
(Image credit: Future)
Thrustmaster T128 review: Price and availability
$199.99 / £149.99 (about AU$312)
Available now
Cheaper than many rivals
The T128 costs $199.99 / £149.99 (around AU$312) and is available now. A PlayStation compatible edition is also available. This makes the T128 one of the cheapest in Thrustmaster’s line-up, and one of the best Xbox racing wheels for those on a budget. I was more impressed with it than the T300RS, for instance, which is considerably more expensive yet underperforms by comparison, although its design is more premium.
If you’re looking for another great value racing wheel, the Logitech G920 is another very capable option. It’s still considerably more expensive than the T128, but the build quality is far superior, and the performance is excellent in all aspects.
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC
Software
Thrustmaster Control Panel
Thrustmaster T128 review: Design and features
Cheap but functional
Light and easy to install
Software tool more advanced than it looks
The T128 doesn't make a great first impression. Its material feels cheap, and the styling is quite outdated, with a few touches that pander to the gaming crowd, harking back to a bygone era.
The wheel itself is small and the rim quite thin, which would make it ideal for younger players and those with smaller hands. As a whole, the unit is also very light, which makes it easy to install and move around, and yet it feels surprisingly sturdy at the same time.
It’s a similar story with the T2PM pedal set, which is also very light and small, meaning the layout might be a little too cramped for some. However, it managed to stay planted on the carpeted surface I used it on, and appears more durable than you might expect.
One gripe I have with the pedal set, though, is its length. It’s too short, which meant I couldn't trail it behind my desk; instead, I had to let it dangle right beside me, which isn’t ideal.
Another drawback of the T128’s design is the poor port placement. When the wheel base is clamped to a desk, the ports are inaccessible, which means you have to attach the various cables prior to installation, making the process a little more awkward. It also means you have to unclamp the wheel any time you want to unplug or reconnect them.
(Image credit: Future)
Fortunately, the clamping system is easy to use, and much better than those of other Thrustmaster wheels I’ve tried. The screw has a plastic handle, which is easy to turn and lock into place, as well as being readily accessible.
There’s a pleasing selection of buttons on the T128 and they’re almost as tactile as what you’d find on the best Xbox controllers. You get a close to full Xbox layout with a few extra inputs thrown in, such as two handbrake buttons and an RSB and LSB buttons, which are compatible with certain games only.
The T128 also features paddle shifters, which are better than I was expecting. They curve slightly to help secure your fingers, and their positioning is ideal, if placed a little too far inwards, which can make them a stretch to reach at times.
Setting up the T128 is a simple process, especially for Xbox users, who only have to plug it into their console. However, as with other Thrustmaster wheels, be sure to keep well out of the way as soon as you power the T128 on, as it immediately fires up its self-calibration feature. Thankfully, this isn’t as violent as with other Thrustmaster wheels, but still worth noting all the same.
To update the firmware, you’ll need to download the PC tool for this purpose. There’s also a tweaking tool, known as the Thrustmaster Control Panel, which looks rather rudimentary and lacks refinement, but is deceptively capable.
It functions well and provides a pleasing amount of tweaks, including multiple parameters for the force feedback. Again, this is all very welcome on a budget racing wheel such as the T128.
Thrustmaster T128 review: Performance
Fun and accurate steering
Plenty of force feedback settings
Brake pedal's a little too light
The T128 acquits itself very well when racing. Steering is accurate and responsive, with plenty of feel and capable of offering smooth and rapid movements in equal measure.
As with other Thrustmaster wheels, the force feedback is very strong – too much so on its maximum setting, although perhaps still less than on other models. But once adjusted appropriately, the T128 provides surprisingly nuanced immersion, although there’s a buzzing sensation that’s a little overbearing at times.
The paddle shifters are solid and snappy, with just enough dampening to make them satisfying to flick. They also provide sufficient feedback, and I was surprised at just how capable they were on this budget wheel.
I was also pleasantly surprised by the T2PM pedal set. I found them quite fun and easy to use, owing to their light actuation. The cramped layout didn’t cause an issue for me either, despite having grievances with similarly tight designs on other pedal sets.
(Image credit: Future)
However, the brake pedal is lacking in feedback somewhat, which can make it hard to judge how much pressure to exert. But overall, both the throttle and the brake provide enough control for modulated inputs.
The T128 also features a gear change indicator in the form of multicolored LEDs, known as the 4 engine speed display RPM LEDs, although I found this quite imprecise in practice. For instance, when playing Forza Motorsport, their progress wasn’t all that smooth, and seemed to reach their peak before the in-game indicator did. Still, it’s a welcome feature to have for a basic visual cue, especially if you like to play with a camera angle that omits the steering wheel from view.
Should I buy the Thrustmaster T128?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if...
You want an entry-level racing wheel Die-hard racers might not get enough from the T128, but for those dipping their toes in, this is a good place to start.
You want to save money The T128 is on the cheaper end of the market, and its good value considering the performance and features on offer here.
Don't buy it if...
You want a premium design The materials aren’t exactly luxurious, and the overall aesthetic just looks cheap.
You want better pedals The pedals perform quite well for the most part, but the brake pedal is perhaps a little too light, and there’s no clutch pedal.
Thrustmaster T128 review: also consider
If you're on the hunt for other budget racing wheels, here are some alternatives to the Thrustmaster T128:
Hybrid FF system, 2 dual-position encoders, three-pedal base
Connection type
USB-A
USB-A
USB-A
Compatibility
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC
Logitech G920 A close rival to the T128 in the budget realm is the Logitech G920. It’s not as cheap as the T128, but it has a much more premium design and performs very well in all areas. For these reasons, we think it’s one of the best entry-level racing wheels on the market right now.
Thrustmaster T248 Another Thrustmaster special, we think the T248 is the best PS5 racing wheel for those looking for a mid-range experience. Similar to the T128, it’s an easy wheel to use, helped by its stability even when clamped to a desk. We also found its pedal set excellent, which, unlike the T128, includes a clutch pedal.
I tested the T128 for a day, clamping it to a desk. Unfortunately, it isn’t compatible with certain racing stands, such as the GT Omega Apex that I have, as there’s no way to affix the wheel with screws or bolts.
It should also be noted that the wheel isn’t compatible with cloud gaming or other streamed games; it only works with games downloaded onto your console or drive.
I played Forza Motorsport on an Xbox Series S, which is a competent racing sim on the console that provides a sterling test for racing wheels. I set the in-game steering setting to simulation mode and turned all driving assists off.
I’ve been gaming for decades and racing sims are one of my favorite games to play. I have experienced a number of different racing wheels and reviewed various models as well, including others made by Thrustmaster.
Logitech’s Astro sub-brand has a sizeable lineage, offering competition-grade audio solutions for years now, and the A50 Gen 5 is able to easily maintain that status quo at a (slightly) lower price point than the Astro A50 X, one of the best wireless gaming headsets we tested last year.
Much of the Astro A50 Gen 5 is built on the same very impressive foundation. It’s packing graphene drivers, which not only sound great but also contribute very little in terms of weight, while the whole design feels well-built without ever feeling uncomfortable for longer periods of use.
Audio sounds excellent, with a broad soundstage that packs in plenty of bass without distortion and plenty of high-end without tinniness, and I found myself using it for listening to music almost as much as I did for gaming.
Dolby Atmos and Windows Sonic are included, as well as the option to pipe in Bluetooth audio from an external source — ideal for anyone looking to crank up a podcast or playlist while grinding in their favorite game.
That flexibility is a common theme with the A50 Gen 5, too, since it can be connected to multiple platforms. While its pricier ‘X’ branded sibling can switch HDMI inputs with a button press, the A50 Gen 5 can do the same for audio.
The same mic from the A50 X is here, too, crystal clear in pressurized competitive moments (or as competitive as you can get within my own skill level) and easy to fold up if you’d prefer to just use the headset as a pair of very nice headphones.
Add to that a fantastic 24 hours of battery life, plus the convenience of being able to rest the headset on the docking station so it’s always ready to go and you’ve got a compelling package — and that’s before touching on Logitech’s G Hub software, which features custom equalizers and Blue voice adjustments.
It’s still not exactly affordable, but if you’re looking for a headset that can work across all platforms, it may be cheaper than buying a dedicated one for each.
Astro A50 Gen 5 review: Price and availability
List price: $299.99 / £299.99
Cheaper than Astro A50 X by around £70/$80
Available worldwide
For $300 / £300, you get a solid package here. Aside from the fantastic headset, that base station really is nifty.
It's well constructed, offering a really handy way to keep your headset charged, while it’s hard to find fault with the build quality of the A50 Gen 5 headset itself.
It’s more premium than mid-range headsets that lean on plasticky shells, and similarly priced SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro.
That rival arguably feels more headphone-like in its design, but offers similar versatility from multi-platform and dual-source output. If you want something that looks a little less like a gaming peripheral, that might be the way to go.
(Image credit: Future)
Astro A50 Gen 5 review: Specs
(Image credit: Future)
Astro A50 Gen 5 review: Design and features
Lightweight headset with fold-down mic
Graphene drivers are lightweight but offer big sound
Fabric ear cups are comfortable and avoid sweat build-up
Sat next to the pricier A50 X, you’d be hard-pressed to spot the differences, although the red cables on the Gen 5s versus the black cables on the A50 X are a bit of a giveaway.
The A50 Gen 5 comes in black or white, with magnetic cushions that can be taken off and swapped if you feel they’re getting to the end of their life (although even after well over a year of the premium version, it’s not ever felt that way to me).
The mic is identical, too, folding down to mouth level, while the side panel on the other side contains all the inputs. There’s chat and audio mixing on the headset itself, as well as Bluetooth functionality for piping your music through.
It’s comfortable for long periods thanks to being lighter than the old Logitech Pro X headsets I’ve used in the past, while the ear cups never feel like they get too hot. In fact, I prefer them to the colder, more leather-like alternatives (although you can buy a leatherette conversion kit from Logitech).
Onto the docking station, then, and while there’s no HDMI connectivity on the back, there are four USB ports. One is reserved for power, so the math enthusiasts will recognize that there are three ports left.
The ports are labeled for PC, PS5, and Xbox, meaning Switch is absent, but you can plug it into any of them.
You may need to provide your own USB-C cables, though — Logitech only provides one for power and a single cable to connect up other consoles.
(Image credit: Future)
Astro A50 Gen 5 review: Performance
24-hour battery life plus added convenience of docking station
24-bit PC audio, 16-bit on consoles but you’re unlikely to hear the difference
Connects via USB-C to docking station, but no HDMI ports
The Astro Gen 5, at least to my relatively trained ears as a musician, sounds the same as its premium sibling.
Footsteps from enemies in Call of Duty: Warzone and Black Ops 6 are crisp and easy to place, while the direction of gunfire is discernible even with short bursts.
Overwatch Hero callouts sound crisp, while more cinematic titles like Assassin’s Creed Shadows feel particularly impressive, notably when rain is falling on rooftops.
It’s worth noting that there’s no Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), but despite having a relatively large head, I felt the seal around my ears was tight enough where that never felt like a major concern. Your mileage may vary, though.
Perhaps most impressively, the A50 Gen 5s are fantastic for non-gaming audio, too. If you want to kick back with music, the balanced soundstage pairs with the comfortable headset to make everything feel nice and fresh.
I found listening to rock epics was a great experience, with piano and percussion dancing around each other nicely, while there’s plenty of bass when the situation calls for it, but without the distortion you may get from cheaper headsets.
You can play around with a mixer in the Logitech G app, too, while the aforementioned earcup controls are ideal for adjusting chat and game audio.
Still, audio output is only one-half of the coin, and while I have tended to keep mics folded up in favor of a desktop option with older setups, the mic here is crystal clear at all times.
The Logitech G app on PC can tap into the company’s Blue mic filtering to adjust to get you sounding sweet as a whistle, but even right out of the box, it feels as though you could be standing right next to a teammate as you work on strategies.
(Image credit: Future/Lloyd Coombes)
Should you buy the Astro A50 Gen 5?
Buy it if...
You’re a console and PC player Being able to switch between your console and PC audio at ease is a huge help for multiformat setups.
You want a clear mic Whether on Discord or console-based party chat, the mic on the Astro A50 Gen 5 is one of the best we’ve tested.
Don't buy it if...
You’re not looking for multiformat functionality The Astros are great, but there are comparable headsets with a focus on a single platform that will set you back a lot less.
Also consider...
Still not sold on the Astro A50 Gen 5? Here’s how it compares to two similar products.
Astro A50 X It’s hard not to compare the pricier variant of the Astros with this version. The main draw is those HDMI ports on the base station, which means you can switch between inputs with a button press. If you’re not looking for that functionality, though, you’ll lose very little with the A50 Gen 5s.
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Less interested in the multiformat chops of the Astro Gen 5s? The BlackShark V2 Pro remains top of our list of the best wireless headset list thanks to fantastic audio, great battery life, and a premium build — but it’s only for PC.
Used on a gaming PC with an RTX 4070 Ti, PS5 Pro, and Xbox Series X
Party chat across multiple games used to test the mic, as well as Discord on PC
I spent my time using the Astro A50 Gen 5 across PC and console, switching between Call of Duty Warzone and Black Ops 6, indie multiplayer title The Headliners, and EA FC 25.
For testing the mic, I played some heated games of Overwatch 2, Marvel Rivals, and Destiny 2 to ensure comms were clear.
Logitech’s Astro sub-brand has a sizeable lineage, offering competition-grade audio solutions for years now, and the A50 Gen 5 is able to easily maintain that status quo at a (slightly) lower price point than the Astro A50 X, one of the best wireless gaming headsets we tested last year.
Much of the Astro A50 Gen 5 is built on the same very impressive foundation. It’s packing graphene drivers, which not only sound great but also contribute very little in terms of weight, while the whole design feels well-built without ever feeling uncomfortable for longer periods of use.
Audio sounds excellent, with a broad soundstage that packs in plenty of bass without distortion and plenty of high-end without tinniness, and I found myself using it for listening to music almost as much as I did for gaming.
Dolby Atmos and Windows Sonic are included, as well as the option to pipe in Bluetooth audio from an external source — ideal for anyone looking to crank up a podcast or playlist while grinding in their favorite game.
That flexibility is a common theme with the A50 Gen 5, too, since it can be connected to multiple platforms. While its pricier ‘X’ branded sibling can switch HDMI inputs with a button press, the A50 Gen 5 can do the same for audio.
The same mic from the A50 X is here, too, crystal clear in pressurized competitive moments (or as competitive as you can get within my own skill level) and easy to fold up if you’d prefer to just use the headset as a pair of very nice headphones.
Add to that a fantastic 24 hours of battery life, plus the convenience of being able to rest the headset on the docking station so it’s always ready to go and you’ve got a compelling package — and that’s before touching on Logitech’s G Hub software, which features custom equalizers and Blue voice adjustments.
It’s still not exactly affordable, but if you’re looking for a headset that can work across all platforms, it may be cheaper than buying a dedicated one for each.
Astro A50 Gen 5 review: Price and availability
List price: $299.99 / £299.99
Cheaper than Astro A50 X by around £70/$80
Available worldwide
For $300 / £300, you get a solid package here. Aside from the fantastic headset, that base station really is nifty.
It's well constructed, offering a really handy way to keep your headset charged, while it’s hard to find fault with the build quality of the A50 Gen 5 headset itself.
It’s more premium than mid-range headsets that lean on plasticky shells, and similarly priced SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro.
That rival arguably feels more headphone-like in its design, but offers similar versatility from multi-platform and dual-source output. If you want something that looks a little less like a gaming peripheral, that might be the way to go.
(Image credit: Future)
Astro A50 Gen 5 review: Specs
(Image credit: Future)
Astro A50 Gen 5 review: Design and features
Lightweight headset with fold-down mic
Graphene drivers are lightweight but offer big sound
Fabric ear cups are comfortable and avoid sweat build-up
Sat next to the pricier A50 X, you’d be hard-pressed to spot the differences, although the red cables on the Gen 5s versus the black cables on the A50 X are a bit of a giveaway.
The A50 Gen 5 comes in black or white, with magnetic cushions that can be taken off and swapped if you feel they’re getting to the end of their life (although even after well over a year of the premium version, it’s not ever felt that way to me).
The mic is identical, too, folding down to mouth level, while the side panel on the other side contains all the inputs. There’s chat and audio mixing on the headset itself, as well as Bluetooth functionality for piping your music through.
It’s comfortable for long periods thanks to being lighter than the old Logitech Pro X headsets I’ve used in the past, while the ear cups never feel like they get too hot. In fact, I prefer them to the colder, more leather-like alternatives (although you can buy a leatherette conversion kit from Logitech).
Onto the docking station, then, and while there’s no HDMI connectivity on the back, there are four USB ports. One is reserved for power, so the math enthusiasts will recognize that there are three ports left.
The ports are labeled for PC, PS5, and Xbox, meaning Switch is absent, but you can plug it into any of them.
You may need to provide your own USB-C cables, though — Logitech only provides one for power and a single cable to connect up other consoles.
(Image credit: Future)
Astro A50 Gen 5 review: Performance
24-hour battery life plus added convenience of docking station
24-bit PC audio, 16-bit on consoles but you’re unlikely to hear the difference
Connects via USB-C to docking station, but no HDMI ports
The Astro Gen 5, at least to my relatively trained ears as a musician, sounds the same as its premium sibling.
Footsteps from enemies in Call of Duty: Warzone and Black Ops 6 are crisp and easy to place, while the direction of gunfire is discernible even with short bursts.
Overwatch Hero callouts sound crisp, while more cinematic titles like Assassin’s Creed Shadows feel particularly impressive, notably when rain is falling on rooftops.
It’s worth noting that there’s no Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), but despite having a relatively large head, I felt the seal around my ears was tight enough where that never felt like a major concern. Your mileage may vary, though.
Perhaps most impressively, the A50 Gen 5s are fantastic for non-gaming audio, too. If you want to kick back with music, the balanced soundstage pairs with the comfortable headset to make everything feel nice and fresh.
I found listening to rock epics was a great experience, with piano and percussion dancing around each other nicely, while there’s plenty of bass when the situation calls for it, but without the distortion you may get from cheaper headsets.
You can play around with a mixer in the Logitech G app, too, while the aforementioned earcup controls are ideal for adjusting chat and game audio.
Still, audio output is only one-half of the coin, and while I have tended to keep mics folded up in favor of a desktop option with older setups, the mic here is crystal clear at all times.
The Logitech G app on PC can tap into the company’s Blue mic filtering to adjust to get you sounding sweet as a whistle, but even right out of the box, it feels as though you could be standing right next to a teammate as you work on strategies.
(Image credit: Future/Lloyd Coombes)
Should you buy the Astro A50 Gen 5?
Buy it if...
You’re a console and PC player Being able to switch between your console and PC audio at ease is a huge help for multiformat setups.
You want a clear mic Whether on Discord or console-based party chat, the mic on the Astro A50 Gen 5 is one of the best we’ve tested.
Don't buy it if...
You’re not looking for multiformat functionality The Astros are great, but there are comparable headsets with a focus on a single platform that will set you back a lot less.
Also consider...
Still not sold on the Astro A50 Gen 5? Here’s how it compares to two similar products.
Astro A50 X It’s hard not to compare the pricier variant of the Astros with this version. The main draw is those HDMI ports on the base station, which means you can switch between inputs with a button press. If you’re not looking for that functionality, though, you’ll lose very little with the A50 Gen 5s.
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Less interested in the multiformat chops of the Astro Gen 5s? The BlackShark V2 Pro remains top of our list of the best wireless headset list thanks to fantastic audio, great battery life, and a premium build — but it’s only for PC.
Used on a gaming PC with an RTX 4070 Ti, PS5 Pro, and Xbox Series X
Party chat across multiple games used to test the mic, as well as Discord on PC
I spent my time using the Astro A50 Gen 5 across PC and console, switching between Call of Duty Warzone and Black Ops 6, indie multiplayer title The Headliners, and EA FC 25.
For testing the mic, I played some heated games of Overwatch 2, Marvel Rivals, and Destiny 2 to ensure comms were clear.
The GameSir Cyclone 2 is a wireless gamepad compatible with PC, Nintendo Switch, and mobile, thanks to its various connectivity options.
Its design hardly pushes the boat out, with a near-identical form and layout to the Xbox controller. However, the translucent panels and RGB lighting at least add some vibrancy.
It’s also hard to fault the Cyclone 2 for build quality. It’s light yet solidly constructed, while the plastics are refined for the most part; however, in some areas – notably the grips – the Cyclone 2 fails to match the premium feel of some of the best PC controllers around.
The buttons, on the other hand, are engineered to a higher standard. I personally liked their mouse-click-esque actuation, which eschews the heavily damped approach of more traditional gamepads – although I’m sure there will be gamers who won’t find this as desirable. Thankfully, the sticks should prove less divisive, as I can’t imagine any who wouldn’t appreciate their smooth operation and premium feel.
One aspect of the Cyclone 2 that’s less impressive, however, is the charging dock. Unlike the excellent dock included with the GameSir Super Nova, the one here is less stable, takes up more real estate, and is too difficult when aligning the charging pins, which can easily result in the Cyclone 2 failing to charge even when seated.
GameSir Connect can be used to customize the functions and features of the Cyclone 2, with a wealth of options available – more so than I’ve seen in other gamepad software, in fact. There are multiple curve profiles and deadzone settings for the sticks and triggers, as well as plenty of rebinding options; you can even substitute motion controls for mouse and joystick inputs.
The Cyclone 2 is also impressive when it comes to performance. Those clicky buttons are certainly responsive, while the D-pad offers slightly more dampening but still provides plenty of feedback – a combination that results in accurate and easy actuation.
(Image credit: Future)
The TMR sticks also live up to their promise with their ultra-precise and smooth inputs, while the triggers offer plenty of control despite having less travel and resistance than your typical gamepad.
I didn’t experience any connectivity issues with the Cyclone 2: it linked easily to my PC, Nintendo Switch, and Android smartphone. However, switching between devices on the fly isn’t the most seamless and requires you to memorize various button combinations to achieve this.
I wasn’t able to test the battery life to its limits during my time with the Cyclone 2, but I can say that after a couple of days of varied use, it remained green. Unfortunately, I can’t be more accurate than this, as no percentage is given for battery life in Connect, which is an oversight. GameSir does claim it can last around 10 hours, though, which is on the lower end of the spectrum.
In line with GameSir’s other offerings, the Cyclone 2 is well-priced compared to some of its rivals. It costs the same as the GameSir Super Nova, which uses the technically inferior Hall effect stick technology rather than TMR, but slightly less than the GameSir Tarantula Pro, which has the latter.
GameSir Cyclone 2 review: Price and availability
$49.99 / £49.99 / AU$79
Available now in two colorways
Well-priced compared to rivals
The Cyclone 2 costs $49.99 / £49.99 / AU$79 and is available now in two colorways: Phantom White and Shadow Black. The edition that includes the charging stand is only slightly more at $55.99 / £55.99 / AU$89. All editions come with a 2.4GHz USB-A dongle and a USB-A-to-C cable.
It’s the same price as the Super Nova, another gamepad from GameSir with a similar design and feature set. This uses Hall effect joystick technology, though, which isn’t considered quite as accurate or as energy efficient as TMR.
If you’re after another TMR controller, then GameSir has another offering in the form of the Tarantula Pro. This is more expensive than the Cyclone 2, but not by much, and it has more buttons to play around with. However, it adopts a layout akin to the best PS5 controllers (despite not being compatible with the console), with its symmetrical sticks and long grips, which some gamers may balk at.
GameSir Cyclone 2 review: specs
(Image credit: Future)
GameSir Cyclone 2 review: design and features
Familiar design
Good build quality
Many customizations available
The Cyclone 2 has a familiar look and layout, following the fashion of the best Xbox controllers (despite not being compatible with the platform), with its asymmetrical joysticks and thick body.
Two colorways are available to choose from, although I personally prefer the white option with its red and gold accents, which looks more slick than its black counterpart. Both variants feature a translucent front plate and underlying RGB strips, which add more interest to proceedings.
Build quality is impressive too, considering the price of the Cyclone 2. The light yet solid chassis feels good in the hand, as does its smooth texture. There’s some pitting on the handles to aid grip, but this doesn’t feel as luxurious as the rubberized and silicone materials used by more premium gamepads.
The buttons and sticks are all generously spaced apart yet still easy to access, and feel solid with little wobble. The sticks follow suit, and their thumb pads offer sufficient levels of grip and comfort while feeling durable at the same time.
The two back buttons are similarly well-designed, and they perfectly align with my natural finger placement. Combined with their large size and ergonomic shape, they’re more practical than other back buttons I’ve experienced.
One design drawback concerns the charging dock, which is included with certain editions. It tries to adopt a more interesting form with its splayed legs, but this makes it impractical as it takes up an unnecessary amount of space.
(Image credit: Future)
It also fails to provide a stable platform for the Cyclone 2, as it’s all too easy to knock the controller from it. What’s more, the charging pins are awkward to align, and there were numerous occasions where I’d failed to seat the pad correctly to initiate charging. The dock included with GameSir Super Nova is far superior, and I wish the same design had been used here.
It’s also a bit of a shame that the face buttons can’t be swapped around to match the platform you’re playing on, as you can with the Super Nova, since the Cyclone 2 lacks the same magnetic, removable face plate.
The Cyclone 2 can be customized using GameSir Connect, the brand’s peripheral software for PC. There are an impressive number of tweaks available here, more so than in other tools I’ve tried. You can rebind the buttons to other controller inputs, or to mouse and keyboard inputs. There’s also a macro creator, and up to three inputs can be assigned to a single button, with Continuous Trigger and Turbo modes available.
There are curve and deadzone adjustments for the triggers and sticks as well, while motion controls have plenty of parameters to tinker with, including the ability to substitute them for joystick inputs or even mouse movements. However, this latter feature failed to work with the first review unit I received, even after troubleshooting, so another test unit was issued, which thankfully did work. Hopefully, this isn’t a pervasive issue, but it’s worth mentioning given it’s a potential cause for concern.
GameSir Cyclone 2 review: performance
Responsive inputs
Super smooth joysticks
Clicky buttons won’t be for everyone
In the main, the Cyclone 2 is a joy to game with. Those clicky face buttons feel very snappy and precise, although I’m sure there will be gamers out there who’ll lament the lack of dampening and prefer the more traditional feel.
The D-pad, however, provides slightly more dampening, but still retains the snappy, tactile feel that provides plenty of feedback. It’s also very easy to use, with plenty of accuracy to avoid mispresses. When playing Tekken 8, it was very conducive to the rapid succession of directions, including quarter-circle rolls, which were comfortable to perform.
What’s more, the TMR joysticks held true to their claim, as they felt smoother and more precise than their Hall effect counterparts – although the difference isn’t massive. This was a real boon when I played FPS games such as Goldeneye 64 on the Switch.
The triggers on the Cyclone 2 are quite light and have less travel than those on other controllers. However, I didn’t have any issues performing controlled movements, such as when modulating the throttle and braking while playing Art of Rally. The motion controls proved accurate as well, as I found when aiming bows in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.
Connecting the Cyclone 2 to various platforms was easy enough, even via Bluetooth, and was as amenable in this regard as the best Nintendo Switch controllers. Hot-swapping between platforms, however, is a little more onerous, as you have to remember various button combinations for changing modes; at least the Home button LED provides some indication on this front. It’s a shame the Cyclone 2 doesn’t include a handy flip switch on the back to toggle between 2.4GHz and Bluetooth modes, as the Super Nova does. But from a performance perspective, I found little wrong with its connectivity.
I didn’t manage to test the battery of the Cyclone 2 to exhaustion, and rather annoyingly, Connect relies on imprecise color codes rather than percentage points for life remaining.
I can say, though, that after a few days of play, the Cyclone 2 remained green, which seems reasonable. However, having reached out to GameSir, it estimated that the Cyclone 2 can last about 10 hours, which is disappointingly low compared to many other wireless controllers – and surprising given that TMR technology is supposed to be more energy efficient.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the GameSir Cyclone 2?
Buy it if...
You want plenty of customization I don’t think I’ve come across gamepad software that offers more customizations than Connect – just about every tweak you could want is here.
You want precise inputs The clicky buttons and ultra-responsive TMR sticks make the Cyclone 2 a sharp and smooth gamepad.
Don't buy it if...
You want plenty of dampening If you like soft, cushioned button presses, then the Cyclone 2 probably isn’t for you.
You wanta long battery life GameSir’s 10-hour estimate is nothing special, and many other wireless controllers can do better than this.
GameSir Cyclone 2 review: Also consider
If you're after some great alternatives to the Cyclone 2, then take a look at these recommendations:
Xbox Wireless Controller The default for many PC and Xbox players, Microsoft’s first-party pad is simple yet capable. Its ergonomics are excellent, while its ubiquity means you can often find one for well below its original price. It doesn’t have anywhere near the same customization options as the Cyclone 2, though, and relies on traditional potentiometer stick technology.
GameSir Tarantula Pro If you want another TMR option, the Tarantula Pro is a great alternative to the Cyclone 2. We found its performance excellent, offering plenty of precision and feedback, while we were also impressed with its sheer number of buttons and features. It’s more expensive than the Cyclone 2, but not by that much.
I tested the Cyclone 2 for several days, during which time I used it on PC, Nintendo Switch, and Android.
I played a variety of games, including Tekken 8, Art of Rally, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, and GoldenEye 64, all of which provide a thorough test for the various inputs of controllers.
I’ve been gaming for over two decades, and during that time, I’ve experienced many different gamepads across many different platforms. I’ve also reviewed a number of controllers previously, including other GameSir models.
