One of the products that's pricked up our ears the most in recent times is GameSir's wild-looking controller with a full racing wheel in the middle. Not only does it look unlike anything else on the market, it's also one of the most innovative ideas I've seen in years.

It's still a long way off, with the current projections for a Q1 2027 launch, but I stumbled across one at this year's Sim Racing Expo in Charlotte, so naturally, I grabbed it with both hands.

The unit I spent some time with is still very much a prototype, but honestly, I can't stop thinking about it. It's truly one of the most mind-blowing pieces of technology I've touched in recent times.

The controller itself debuted earlier this year at CES and has been referred to by its code name, Swift Drive. At this event, though, it's being marketed through a collaboration with sim racing hardware company Trak Racer, and their version will be known as the TR640.

So, what's it all about? Unbelievably, the Swift Drive/TR640 packs a genuine direct drive motor into the form factor of a regular controller. It's a little heavier than your average Xbox controller, but not uncomfortably so, and it's certainly no more cumbersome.

Direct drive is a technology usually limited to much larger, heftier, more expensive virtual racing setups. Inside the controller is something technologically the same, but much smaller. But even with the shrunken dimensions, this thing kicks like a mule.

The experience of using the controller doesn't feel unnatural, though. Obviously, its primary target is racing titles, but you still get regular face buttons, one normal-sized analog stick, and a miniature right stick.

The overall shape isn't anything wacky; it even has the same sort of rear paddle buttons that you'd find on a GameSir G7 controller. It's perfectly usable for all different sorts of games.

But what about its party piece? Honestly, calling it incredible doesn't feel like it does it enough justice. The experience feels completely natural. The wheel sits exactly where your thumbs would naturally rest, especially if you've ever used a Sony controller.

I played a little Assetto Corsa using it, and it's a totally pick-up-and-play experience. Whereas learning to use a wheel and pedal setup takes time, practice, and some fettling of settings and your driving position, you have none of that with this controller.

Rumble motors on controllers have never been that good for racing games. There's a clear difference here. Because it uses the same direct drive technology you get on racing wheels, what you're feeling through your fingers is the true force feedback from the game.

Even with the force feedback turned down, you truly can feel the track beneath your virtual car; you can feel the texture of the rumble strips, of the grass if you get off the tarmac, and if you crash into a barrier, it's best to take your thumbs off entirely!

The wheel input isn't exactly 1:1, but equally, it shouldn't be. You're not going to want 900 degrees of input on something you're holding in your hands and using your thumbs to steer. I'm not sure what the exact setup is on this prototype, but it works. It balances accuracy and comfort pretty much perfectly.

The initial curiosity was high, but I truly didn't believe that something like this would actually be possible. Or fear it would turn out to be something half-baked.

So I'm both surprised and excited that none of that seems true. This is the real deal. Whether you want to play Forza Horizon 6 or something more 'serious' like Assetto Corsa, this controller is approachable enough for beginners but advanced enough for someone who's looking for a dose of realism.

Many will look at the projected $199 asking price and think it's simply too much for a controller. But that's the wrong way to look at it. I have a $200 Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K controller, and that doesn't have a direct drive motor in the middle of it.

Compare the price of the GameSir Swift Drive to even an entry-level wheel and pedal setup, and you're getting a better comparison. Even one of the more affordable direct drive bases will run you more than $200; then you have to add a wheel rim and some pedals and, crucially, have the space to put them all together.

In this normal-sized controller you have true direct-drive feedback and a more realistic driving experience, and you can do it all with your feet up on the couch. Which you can do because it's also wireless.

It's still a way off, though. The representative I spoke to said they're hoping to have it ready in Q4 2026, while the Trak Racer version can currently be pre-ordered with a tentative January 2027 date.

In that time there'll be more work on perfecting it, and I'm told the hope is to have it available on all platforms. The prototype I tested is a PC-only controller, but the plan is to have an Xbox/PC variant as well as a PS5/PC variant.

I'm all for this, though. I love that someone had a crazy idea and actually made it work. I love the execution, too. The design is ergonomic and comfortable to use, and the hardware inside is advanced enough to tackle any of today's best racing games.

I also hope it kick-starts a whole new category of controllers for racing fans. For the experience, the pleasure of driving, this is far beyond using an analog stick, while being more accessible and budget-friendly than a wheel. Add this to the top of the list of most anticipated products.

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I'd challenge you to find a PC gamer who doesn't know Valve and its contributions to the hobby, and I'm confident you'd struggle. While it has made the most significant splash on the software side with Steam, it has dabbled in hardware with the high successes of the Steam Deck and the subterranean missteps of its first Steam Controller.

Now, it's trying again, and gamers are lining up in droves for a chance to buy Valve's revised Steam Controller in 2026. That includes me, because I knew I was going to spend my own cash on this new attempt, based solely on its early images and descriptions. So, is it good, bad, or somewhere in between? Here's what I think of mine after a week's worth of gameplay.

How much does the Steam Controller cost?

Valve's Steam Controller launched at $99 via Steam, and, so far, remains the same price. In the United Kingdom, that amounts to £85, including sales tax. At launch, the controller was available on a first-come, first-served basis until it sold out. Now, in May 2026, you'll need a Steam account to place a reservation before you have a chance to buy one.

Delivery times vary by region and the time of the order. I placed my Steam Controller order in the UK on May 4, when it became available, and it arrived from its European shipping source in the Netherlands after 6 working days. Valve's initial delivery estimate was 3–5 working days, increasing to 6–10 a few hours after its release.

Is the Steam Controller any good?

My initial hands-on impressions of the Steam Controller were good, as it sits comfortably in my hands with a familiar weight of 0.64 lbs (292 g). I usually play with Microsoft's official Xbox controllers that were bundled with my Series X|S consoles, each weighing 0.63 lbs (287 g) with AA batteries or 0.52 lbs (240 g) without them if I'm using a permanently connected USB-C cable.

Despite the placement of the prominent touchpads, my palms don't accidentally graze them when I use the analog sticks or face buttons. It's admittedly something I was concerned about when I first saw this design in the Steam Controller's official reveal, so it's a relief to discover there's no issue for me here.

Otherwise, my middle and ring fingers naturally rest on the rear buttons, which feel better in this bended circular form than the rectangular equivalents on Valve's still-excellent Steam Deck handheld. The Steam Controller's d-pad is less "clicky" than that of an Xbox Series X|S controller, but there's still a firm response in its more muted pushes.

The Steam Controller's face buttons all feel about the same as the Xbox controller that I'm used to, but they have a quieter response. That's a recurring theme throughout the unit, and only the rear buttons produce a distinct sound when used. Both shoulder bumpers offer slightly weaker resistance than on the Xbox side, but they're quiet and responsive enough.

It's a similar story with the triggers, which feel slightly shallower and less resistant than my Xbox controller, but not to the point where they seem lackluster or detrimental to gameplay. Even the analog sticks follow this pattern, pushed around with marginally less resistance but offset with smoother movement, no doubt helped by the drift-proof TMR technology underneath.

Matte plastic coats the Steam Controller with a consistent pattern, which feels familiar (again) to the Xbox joypad's front side. However, Microsoft arguably takes the lead with the rougher finish on the rear of its modern first-party controller. It's only my pinky fingers that rest against these bare sections, but it's a noticeable difference.

The standout feature for the Steam Controller is the "puck", which serves dual responsibilities as a wireless receiver and charging station for the joypad. It's detachable from the 5 ft (1.5 m) USB-C cable that Valve includes in the box, meaning I could leave it attached to my PC and have it act as a wired controller if I wanted to (but I never do).

Updating the firmware via the Steam desktop app for both parts of the controller is as straightforward as it gets, and the Steam button itself takes me into "Big Picture Mode" from there. If you've ever used SteamOS before, whether on a Steam Deck or an alternative like Lenovo's Legion Go S, this mode will be instantly familiar and won't require a learning curve.

Games launched from Steam generally activate the app's overlay, accessible again with the Steam button. From here, I can tweak the controller's button bindings, download community-made layouts, or adjust the sensitivity of functions like the built-in gyro for motion-controlled aiming. The trackpads also respond to touch with haptic feedback, and I find myself using them quite often.

Does the Steam Controller have any issues?

The majority of the Steam Controller's genuine downsides are found in the software experience, rather than its hardware. Screw holes on the rear side are quite prevalent, and while they aren't usually visible, my middle fingers regularly brush against a pair mounted on its grips. I wouldn't describe it as uncomfortable, but it's a perceptible difference from my Xbox controller.

For software, this controller relies heavily on the Steam app and Valve's "Steam Input" feature within, which handles button mapping for each of my games. If I stick to launching modern titles from my Steam library, the experience is practically perfect. However, games that rely on older graphics APIs can cause issues with the Steam overlay, leading to controller detection issues.

Using the Steam Controller with non-Steam games is possible, as my experiment with importing Dying Light from the Epic Games Store proves. Unfortunately, it's far from a straightforward process, and the necessary tinkering with launch options and launcher manipulation will likely turn off some PC gamers who want a more "console-like" experience with this joypad.

The obnoxious elephant in the room is that titles from the Xbox app will not work with the Steam Controller on Windows without third-party software. There's some nuance to the issue, and progression in the SDL library hints at future improvements. For now, though, entries like Forza Horizon 6 installed with PC Game Pass are not compatible.

Should you buy the Steam Controller?

You should buy this if ...

✅ You play most of your games on Steam

✅ You're willing to tinker with button layouts

You should not buy this if ...

❌ You want to play Game Pass titles on Xbox PC

For each accusation I've seen about Valve creating a "walled garden" in the PC gaming community with the Steam Controller, there are counterpoints to most of them. It's a feature-rich joypad that justifies its price point, with the charging puck being both a genuine convenience and a unique quirk. The only complaint I can't refute is the lack of compatibility with the Xbox PC app and UWP apps provided by Game Pass.

SDL library support is helping, and the emulators I've used recently are working perfectly with this controller. Whether that triggers a change from Valve to fully support its new joypad on Windows without requiring the Steam desktop app is up for debate, but I'd argue that the Steam Deck's evolution suggests it could happen. If you're lucky enough to see one in stock, it's worth buying.

If you bought Valve's new $99 Steam Controller as I did, you might have noticed that it doesn't function as expected outside the Steam app. It isn't completely useless, as the controller falls back into a "lizard mode" that lets you navigate your Windows desktop with basic controls.

Still, games launched from the Xbox app on PC or other third-party launchers won't detect any compatible controller and assume you're still using a mouse and keyboard.

A few workarounds are circulating in the PC gaming community via third-party software, and as you might expect, none of them are officially approved by Valve or Microsoft. SISR (Steam Input System Redirector) and SteamlessController are both fan-made, open-source projects hosted on GitHub, and the latter works without needing Steam open in the background.

In turn, each of these apps depends on code from other GitHub-hosted software, like VIIPER (Virtual Input over IP EmulatoR) for SISR and ViGEmBus for SteamlessController.

If you aren't a particularly confident Windows user, potentially picking up Valve's new Steam Controller to simplify PC gaming into something more akin to a homemade Steam Machine "console", then this may already seem like too much hard work — or risky, if any of these apps are "vibe-coded" with the help of AI, noting that SteamlessController lists Anthropic's Claude as a contributor.

What about SDL support for the Steam Controller?

Thankfully, there has been some movement towards supporting the Steam Controller outside of the Steam app, as the SDL (Simple DirectMedia Layer) library now supports the controller's "touchpads, capacitive touch for sticks, and grip sense handling" (via Phoronix).

In theory, that means certain games will begin to recognize the Steam Controller as a fully-functional joypad when you play them on PC. You might not see SDL support across every AAA title, but it's a major step towards controller functionality on Windows when importing non-Steam games.

Testing the current functionality myself by adding the popular Subnautica 2 as a non-Steam game (or rather the GameLaunchHelper.exe file) confirms my suspicion: Steam Input doesn't activate, and the Steam Controller is still detected as a mouse and keyboard. While I can bind its detected mouse clicks and other inputs in the game, it won't support the controller's full feature set.

So, is the Steam Controller worth buying?

I spent my own money on Valve's revised Steam Controller, but my experience is far from unique. This issue with the Xbox PC app and Game Pass games has been known since the embargo lifted on sample units, but it's always better to go hands-on with a retail model and see what the experience is like for paying customers. I'm testing some of these trending concerns with my own unit, and will publish my take on its value soon enough.

For now, I'm not willing to download a third-party input translation layer just to play games from my Game Pass Ultimate subscription.

Whether the blame lies with Microsoft and its UWP app approach to games on the Xbox app or with Valve and its lack of Xinput support on the Steam Controller is a debate for another time, but I don't want another app in my system tray to solve the issue. I'll keep you updated if the situation changes, and if I have any luck with the Steam desktop app and its default setup.

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ThinkPads are some of the most durable laptops around, and there never seems to be a shortage of enthusiasts who are proud to show off an ancient device that's still in working order.

If you've used a ThinkPad, you know that it comes with some features not regularly found anywhere else. One such piece of hardware is the ThinkPad TrackPoint system, consisting of a red pointing nub placed in the middle of the keyboard and accompanied by a set of physical buttons just above the modern touchpad.

The TrackPoint is a major part of ThinkPad's identity, and although it doesn't get nearly as much attention as it used to when laptop touchpads were not yet in such a great state, it certainly still has its uses.

And I'm not just talking about use as a touch alternative.

I built "FooTrack" – a completely hands-free, foot-operated PC mouse & gamepad using a ThinkPad TrackPoint. Looking for feedback from this community! from r/diyelectronics

This past weekend, I spotted what could be the most impressive second-hand use of a TrackPoint system. Reddit user Gitman_87, who is evidently the engineer behind the CtrlZ YouTube channel, posted a creation that they've dubbed "FooTrack."

As explained in the introductory post, Gitman_87 has been quietly developing FooTrack as an accessibility tool based on the TrackPoint's hardware.

Gitman_87 explains that the project is still in its infancy, and the community outreach on Reddit is mainly to gather feedback from potential users and other ThinkPad aficionados.

How does FooTrack work, and why is a ThinkPad TrackPoint's hardware perfect for the project?

ThinkPads last a long time, and even when they're well past their expiration date in terms of software compatibility, the hardware often lives on. I don't doubt that there are countless TrackPoint systems in working order that get sent to a landfill every year. Not only does that make the hardware cheap, but also rather plentiful.

The TrackPoint pointing nub relies on force input rather than distance, and Gitman_87 recognized that it could "translate into really smooth cursor or joystick control" based on micromovements from your feet.

A Raspberry Pi Zero is used alongside the TrackPoint controller inside the device, and a custom Wi-Fi UDP script allows for 100Hz polling to make it feel plenty smooth.

In a video posted on the CtrlZ YouTube channel, the creator shows off a padded cover installed atop a custom base that's housing the TrackPoint hardware and Raspberry Pi.

The video shows rather smooth navigation in Windows 11 using FooTrack. There's no gaming footage available yet, but the creator has stated that they're putting together a full presentation video for imminent release.

Although the creator originally began working on FooTrack as an accessibility tool for gamers, one response to the original post brings up the possibility of using FooTrack while programming. It's a pain to take your hands off the keyboard, and being able to move a cursor with your feet indeed seems like a no-brainer.

If you have any thoughts or useful feedback, I urge you to jump into the Reddit discussion and let Gitman_87 know what you think.

I truly think the creator is onto something here, especially if it actually works as well as it appears to in these early videos.

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Asus’s ROG Raikiri II is a high‑end Xbox‑compatible controller built for players who prioritize precision and feel. Its TMR joysticks and tactile micro switches deliver noticeably sharper input and crisper feedback than standard pads, while the fit and finish feel genuinely premium. That performance comes at a premium price and with features aimed more at competitive and serious players than casual buyers. If you value accuracy and durability in long sessions, the Raikiri II makes a strong case; if you’re budget‑minded, the tradeoffs matter.

Let's get into it.

I have an odd relationship with ASUS. I love the ROG Ally and subsequent Xbox Ally range. ASUS makes some fantastic products, but the quality bar can be a bit inconsistent at times. I've had ASUS headsets, for example, and haven't been a big fan. I've owned an ASUS laptop in the past, and it has given me a lot of driver headaches, too.

All my gripes with the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are more on Microsoft's side than ASUS's, whose update regime has been pretty great overall for the ROG Ally range. Given how good the inputs are on the Xbox Ally, I was eager to test out and review the ASUS Raikiri II controller when given the chance.

The Xbox Ally is a handheld, but it can be a bit finicky when docked due to Windows' idiosyncrasies with external monitors and TVs. I was hoping the ASUS Raikiri II would be a good option for swapping between my Xbox console and the Xbox Ally docked to the TV downstairs. And for the most part, it kind of is. But what I'm proposing here is a pretty niche scenario, I would imagine.

Does the ASUS Raikiri II make the grade as one of the best Xbox controllers of 2026? If you were looking for the ASUS Raikiri II Xbox / PC controller as a replacement for even a more basic, affordable experience ... well, it's a bit of a tough one.

ASUS Raikiri II: Specs & price

For $189.99, the ASUS Raikiri II does seem like a good deal on paper. It's a bit more pricy than the Xbox Elite Controller 2 Core, but it does include all the bells and whistles that you can typically only get with a full Xbox Elite Controller 2 bundle. The Elite controller is also a bit dated at this point, and doesn't include seamless switching between PC and Xbox like the Raikiri does.

In the box with the Raikiri II, you get the controller, a USB-C cable (braided), a USB wireless dongle, a USB charge dock, and the controller itself. The equivalent bundle on the Xbox Elite side typically runs up to $199.99.

On paper, the spec sheet looks grand. Beefy battery life, premium accessories, TMR sticks, Xbox-style design, Xbox Ally buttons. What's not to like?

Well ... let's get into that.

ASUS Raikiri II: Design & ergonomics

The ASUS Raikiri II will be extremely familiar to anyone who has ever used an Xbox controller. It sports the offset joysticks, ABXY buttons, two shoulder buttons, triggers, and a familiar shape to boot. Where it diverges is in the features, but we'll get more into that in a bit.

The Raikiri II is lightweight in the hand, lighter even than the Xbox Elite by a substantial margin, and comes with more modernized features. It has four baked-in back buttons, all of which are very pronounced and deliver a tactile feel. ASUS really learned from the shortcomings of the back buttons on the original ASUS ROG Ally I feel here. The micro-switches give the controller a reassuring actuation, and textured grips and thoughtful curvatures make the Raikiri II pleasant to hold across very long sessions.

The Raikiri II also matches the Xbox Ally with its Armoury Crate and Library buttons, as well as the standard Xbox "Nexus" button in the center and a clip sharing button at the bottom. On the back, we have a hard switch between Bluetooth, Wireless, and USB connectivity, as well as Xbox and PC modes. This makes it a lot easier for multi-device use than the Xbox Elite controller, which can be finicky and irritating when swapping between Bluetooth and Xbox modes.

The controller itself nails all the basics well. It feels great to use in games, and the TMR sticks should give it full resistance to drift over time. The compliments end here, though.

The Raikiri II's worst feature is the charge dock, by far. The dock itself feels like cheap and light plastic. Typically, you'd want a dock to have some heft to it, so that it will sit still on your desk. Furthermore, the two feet of the charge dock are held in place by literally ... nothing. Gravity alone and tiny pegs keep the feet in place here. An accidental knock will send the whole thing falling apart like a house of cards. I have no idea what ASUS was thinking here.

There are some RGB lights to help distract you from how poor the charge dock is, at least. Although you might find yourself tearing your hair out while configuring them.

ASUS Raikiri II review: Features & Software

There's a lot of good stuff in the package overall. The triggers can be locked in place, Elite-style, for more rapid firing. The back buttons are fully configurable, giving you access to key abilities without having to remove your thumbs from the movement sticks. It's neat having the Xbox Ally buttons available as well.

I'm grateful that there are hard switches for the different modes, too. I found that the radio frequencies work flawlessly across PC, Xbox, and Bluetooth, with no issues with connectivity and interference, unlike certain other major brand controllers I can name. The Raikiri II also delivers big in the battery department, easily sticking out a 30-40 hour battery life complete with RGB ablaze in wireless mode.

Where ASUS fully flops, though, is the configuration software, which is inexplicably web-based and requires an internet connection.

Upon installing the ASUS Armoury Crate software, which is "okay," I was prompted to download an update for the Raikiri II, which then simply provided me a URL. ASUS claims that the ASUS "Gear Link" web-based software is designed for your convenience ... but it isn't very convenient if you're in a situation without internet.

Indeed, the web-based software is a maddeningly confusing move here by ASUS. The always-online requirement to configure your controller is an insane idea. And indeed, if you're traveling, the Gear Link software will use the language of your locale rather than your PC. I was in travelling in Germany while reviewing this controller, and lo and behold, the Raikiri II Gear Link software was displaying in German. Furthermore, I couldn't use the configuration software when my internet was down, either.

It's an absurd decision on ASUS' part to put the configuration tools for this exclusively on the web, rather than in the offline Armoury Crate, like any other sane company might do.

When it works as advertised, it's not half bad ... you can configure the sensitivities across the board, actuation curves, adjust lighting, and other settings. I just wish it weren't web-based.

ASUS Raikiri II: Competition

The Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 is the obvious competition here. Microsoft's Elite Controller runs around the same price for the bells and whistles, and remains my go-to preference primarily for the charge dock and battery life. The Elite Controller has various design flaws, including stick drift and bumper wear-and-tear, but the ease of use, convenience, and design of the dock generally win me over.

The Raikiri II feels like it'll last much longer than the Series 2, however. TMR sticks give it a huge advantage in the stick drift department, and the configuration software issues only matter in specific scenarios. For the most part, once you've configured it to your preferences, you'll probably not need them again.

The charge dock on the Raikiri II is awful, but it is at the very least functional. Competing "Elite" controllers like the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro and so on usually don't have a charge dock, despite being similarly priced. The Wolverine range also seems susceptible to inference at times, which can be irritating in competitive play.

You could also just opt for something cheaper. At $189.99, the Raikiri II dock should be far, far better than it is. I'd sooner recommend just grabbing an Xbox Elite Series 2 Core and a second-hand Elite charge dock over this.

ASUS Raikiri II: Should you buy it?

The ASUS Raikiri II is not a bad controller. The controller itself is very solid overall, but it's just in the detailing where ASUS falls over.

The charge dock feels so painfully cheap that it's insulting as part of a $189.99 bundle, and the web-based configuration software is a huge and odd mistake. If ASUS opted to sell this controller without the charge dock and brought the configuration tools into a native app at $129.99 or less, it would be a great deal worth recommending. At $189.99, it becomes a bit tough.

I think once you're set up and ready to go with it, you won't be disappointed overall with your experience, but given that basic Xbox controllers run at $39.99, ASUS is really asking a lot here for what is, in essence, not exactly reinventing the wheel.

Honeycomb Aeronautical is one of those brands that thrives within its subcategory, but casual users who don't regularly trawl the flight simulator scene might not recognize it. That's generally fine because the company excels at what it does, and I've regularly recommended its full-size hardware, such as the recent Foxtrot flight stick and Bravo Lite throttle quadrant.

Still, I'm on a lifelong mission to tempt the unsuspecting public into Microsoft Flight Simulator. Sometimes that can be as letting them fly a virtual plane over a recreation of their hometown on PC; others, it's a more casual dip into the Xbox version. I saw a prototype of this Echo controller last year, and it was, in my own words, "the coolest f—ing thing I'd seen". Now, it's in my office.

Where can you buy the Honeycomb Echo?

As you might expect, you can buy the Honeycomb Echo Aviation Controller directly from the company's official store for $149.99.

There is a listing for the Echo at Amazon US for $149.99, but as of writing, was out of stock.

On my side, in the United Kingdom, there's a similar listing for the Echo on Amazon UK, but it seems to have never had stock, leaving it without a price tag for now.

Back in the US, there's nothing for the Echo at Best Buy, despite a few listings for Honeycomb's other products, but that might soon change.

For now, your best bet is to pick up the Echo directly from Honeycomb with deliveries "within 1-3 working days" and a "risk-free 14-days return period", as it claims along the bottom end of its store page.

Is the Honeycomb Echo a good controller?

The Echo makes so much sense to me as a surface-level fan of the genre, meaning I love the experience of flying around the world in (post-patch) Microsoft Flight Simulator, but I've never committed to a permanent sim rig in my home. It's the kind of game that feels fine on an Xbox controller, but genuinely improves with recreations of real-world sticks, throttles, and pedals.

Yes, these types of Frankensteined controllers have existed before, with some gimmicks appearing frequently in the sim racing scene, but this one felt like a worthy project from the moment I saw it. Thankfully, the release model is even better than the prototype I tried. Honeycomb gets a lot of things right, all of which were immediately noticeable when I unboxed the real thing.

As tempting as it was to push and pull on the unusual-looking collection of throttle levers and switches, Honeycomb's inclusion of a high-quality carrying case earns its earliest praise. It's a semi-hardshell case, complete with a netted storage compartment for the included charging cable and slots for the various lever caps alongside its 2.4GHz wireless USB dongle.

A firm but reasonable pull removes any of the four standard circular lever caps, and I can easily swap them out for a Boeing-style speed brake and flaps — or a duo of propeller and mixture caps if I feel like flying something smaller. Variety is the spice of life, and this is one of the sweetest solutions to interchangeable throttles I've seen to date.

Moving to the meat of this thing, the throttle levers themselves have enough resistance to prevent accidental pushes when I brush them with my thumb, but aren't so stiff as to be cumbersome. The trim wheel is also particularly solid, so there's no danger of pushing that up or down, either. It's the same for the pull-out parking brake, toggled landing gear, and chunky flaps lever.

One part that definitely deserves highlighting is the Hall-Effect thumbstick, which is essentially modern controller technology that helps prevent stick drift, something I've seen happen to older joypads over the years. The thumbstick itself feels completely normal, but it does have high-end tech hidden beneath, which should help keep the Echo in good health for years.

That, and Honeycomb provides downloadable Microsoft Flight Simulator control profiles for the Echo on its official website, which skips much of the setup process. On the other hand, some simulation enthusiasts actually prefer to do this themselves, but there's nothing stopping anyone from creating a manual profile — I'll pass for now.

In MSFS, you can fine-tune the sensitivity of each digital and analog input of the Echo, and I'd personally recommend dialing down the thumbstick sensitivity. After that, everything feels great at stock settings, even if the spring-loaded rudder pedals on the back of the Echo take some getting used to. If I can figure it out, then I'm sure you'll get the hang of it.

Does the Honeycomb Echo have any issues?

Downsides to the Echo are slim, but worth mentioning. On the hardware side, the shoulder buttons are all digital; that means no analog triggers. Second, the hat switch is placed up and to the left of the thumbstick, which can make camera movements a little awkward — not impossible, but awkward — though I use two shoulder buttons for a quick look to the left and right anyway.

For software, it's the big and obvious one: no Xbox support. It's notoriously difficult to build third-party wireless controllers for Microsoft's console, but it is especially strange to hold something that feels like it belongs there. Honeycomb already built an Xbox hub as a console compatibility bridge for its PC-specific Bravo and Charlie hardware, so I'd definitely like to see a similar solution here.

Should you buy the Honeycomb Echo?

You should buy this if ...

✅ You're a traveling flight sim fan who craves portable play

✅ You don't have enough desk space for sim hardware

You should not buy this if ...

❌ You primarily play Microsoft Flight Simulator on Xbox

❌ You prefer flying virtual helicopters over planes

Honeycomb's Echo Aviation Controller is an extremely unique addition to an otherwise predictable, if stellar, lineup. I've always pushed newcomers looking for the best flight sticks for Microsoft Flight Simulator towards something like the Foxtrot for the sake of simplicity, but this has a chance to replace (or at least supplement) that recommendation.

I love seeing brands take risks on quirky hardware like this, and it's even better when they make it out of the prototype stage and prove to be much more than a gimmick. Rather than setting up full-size peripherals in the evenings, I'm finding myself reaching for the Echo far more often, but I still lament the missing Xbox support. That, and third-party storefront availability needs to improve.

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On January 23, 2026, the third-party gaming accessory manufacturer, Anbernic, revealed a new controller in the works for PC, Steam, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Linux, and Android called the ANBERNIC RG G01 Smart Controller.

This controller aims to improve a player's experience with responsive controls, immersive feedback, and even keep track of their health through a built-in heart rate monitor.

Here are all the tech specifications Anbernic has shared on the ANBERNIC RG G01 Smart Controller.

The ANBERNIC RG G01 Smart Controller is a wired and wireless controller built with Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4G wireless connectivity and 1,000Hz polling rates in both wired and wireless modes.

With this high polling rate, players won't have to worry about suffering from input delay or low-latency while playing competitive PC games like Call of Duty.

The ANBERNIC RG G01 Smart Controller also includes anti-drift joysticks for improved joystick input accuracy and preventing the sticks from drifting, and Dual Mode Triggers so the triggers can work more efficiently for certain games (linear mode for racing games and micro-switch more for first-person shooters).

Plus, it has 6-axis Gyro motion controls with reprogrammable macro keys, dual asymmetric pendulum motors for enhanced immersion, and a Smart Control Screen where the player can remap the controls and macro settings.

The Smart Control Screen also houses the ANBERNIC RG G01 Smart Controller's most unique feature, a built-in heart rate monitor that can track the player's heartbeat in real time during gameplay.

Lastly, the controller can be bought in one of three color schemes: Black, White, or Yellow.

No word has been given from Anbernic on when the ANBERNIC RG G01 Smart Controller will be released, other than it's "coming soon."

In the meantime, we'll keep an eye out and let you folks at home know when this intriguing PC gaming accessory is available to the public for purchase.

Does the ANBERNIC RG G01 Smart Controller look interesting to you? How do you feel about the idea of a controller tracking your heart rate while playing a game?

If you have any thoughts on the matter, let us know in the comments below.

I've gone around the sun 36 times now, and in that time, I like to think I have matured. But sometimes my juvenile side comes out, and that's exactly what happened when I read about the latest device from GameSir.

I messaged two of my editors to make sure I wasn't the only one to think the "Pocket Taco" name of GameSir's newest controller sounds a bit suggestive.

Regardless of whether the name makes you pause, the Pocket Taco looks like an emulator's dream and an excellent device for playing games from certain genres.

The Pocket Taco is a vertical mobile controller inspired by the Game Boy — it's even available in classic Game Boy colors.

You can open the Pocket Taco and slot your phone inside. The device features friction grips that rely on rubber pads resting against your smartphone rather than a physical anchor or a pinching mechanism.

You can connect the Pocket Taco to your phone through Bluetooth or USB-C. GameSir's website mentions support for "Android and other compatible devices," but iOS is not mentioned by name.

The controller features ABXY and D-pad inputs. It also has tactile switch bumpers and triggers on its back.

You can customize the controls of the Pocket Taco through the GameSir app, including remapping buttons.

GameSir's new controller looks quite different from the best mobile controllers, but it's designed for a different type of gaming. While devices like the Razer Kishi Ultra and GameSir X2s are designed for more hardcore gaming in a landscape orientation, the Pocket Taco is for retro gaming in a vertical orientation.

The Pocket Taco is available to order now for $34.99 through early bird pricing on Kickstarter. Those who back the device should expect to receive it in April. Kickstarter backers have the exclusive option to order the Atom Purple version of the controller.

You can also pre-order the Pocket Taco through GameSir's website.

GameSir Pocket Taco review highlights

Our colleagues at GamesRadar+ already went hands-on with the Pocket Taco. Hardware Editor Phil Hayton chose to go with more food-related puns, proving they are more mature than I am.

Jokes and puns aside, the Pocket Taco earned a 4.5/5 in that review and received praise for its built-in battery, d-pad, and comfort.

"The GameSir Pocket Taco makes for a tasty way to turn your phone into a Game Boy, and it also doubles up as a Bluetooth controller for other devices," said Hayton.

"While there are certainly better mobile gamepads out there for playing anything outside the realm of Nintendo's handheld back catalogue, this one is both a space saver and a surprisingly comfortable and authentic tribute to a classic handheld."

Considering I played the original Game Boy and was practically attached to my special Pikachu edition Game Boy Color, I'm drawn to an accessory like the Pocket Taco. Maybe if it's popular, we'll see some more color options.

What was your first portable console? Let us know in the comments!

To say I've been using one of the fastest out-of-the-box PC controllers money can buy, I've been suffering a little. I've been using Razer's Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC of late as my main for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, but something has been feeling off.

When I wrote our review of the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC, I was blown away by its performance. But I also tested that controller in Black Ops 6, before Black Ops 7 came out.

The long story short is that if you have a fast Razer controller, such as this, and you're feeling a little sluggish, you should check your deadzones in Synapse 4.

The problem: Feeling sluggish in fast-paced competitive environments

To be clear, the controller is not responsible for my own lack of skill. But after playing only Multiplayer for the first week, most of the time since I've been either shooting (mostly) bots in Warzone Casual doing the Mastery Camo and 100% Calling Card, or in the PvE modes.

Going back to Multiplayer with the start of the Fallout crossover event, something didn't feel right. Something felt sluggish. Not massively, but gunfights and movement just felt harder. Like I couldn't move, aim, or even react quick enough, even with sweat pouring down my head.

After troubleshooting every in-game setting, I turned to the Internet, and then into Razer Synapse 4 to solve it.

The solution: Turn off Razer's double deadzone prevention

On paper, Razer's own software ensuring that you don't have clashing deadzone settings between your controller and game sounds good.

In practice, though, players have observed that having the double deadzone prevention turned on in Synapse 4, unintentionally seems to mess with your input latency.

In my experience, at least, it seems to be the case. I turned it off, set deadzones to 0 minimum and 100 maximum, and then went back to the game.

From the very first match, it felt so much better. I'm not ready for the Call of Duty League yet, but, I could definitely feel movement and aiming as much crisper.

Turning your deadzones to 0 in Synapse will give you a warning about unintended inputs and being for "pro players" but there's no cause for alarm.

The idea is to manage your deadzones inside the game, in my case, Black Ops 7. A controller like this with TMR thumbsticks doesn't have stick drift to worry about, but if you use a deadzone to help you have better control, or eliminate unwanted inputs, the game is where to set it.

It makes sense, though, that there could be unintended consequences. I'm sure Razer hasn't done it on purpose, but if the software is constantly checking that you don't have deadzone clashes, something is happening in the background. On a slower controller, it may not be noticeable. But on an 8,000 Hz one, it certainly is.

Other things to check

There are also a couple of other things with this, or any similarly tricked out controller, you should also check if you're getting issues.

The first is that your PC can actually handle the 8,000 Hz polling rate. This much communication between controller and PC increases the load on the CPU. Use Task Manager to check whether it's being particularly thirsty, and if need be, reduce the polling rate in software. Most recent CPUs should be absolute fine, though.

Also make sure your firmware is up-to-date. Through this process I did, in fact, discover I was using older firmware, though it wasn't the fix for my personal issue. Razer doesn't deliver firmware updates through Synapse, so you'll have to go and locate it manually.

So, I'm back as fighting fit as I'm ever going to be. Software features are nice, but sometimes they can be more hindrance, than help.

If you have any other tips and tricks for maximizing a controller's performance on PC, be sure to drop them into the comments below.

Back in 2024, gaming peripheral manufacturer Turtle Beach unveiled a new Xbox controller that looked like it was ripped out of a sci-fi TV Show, the Stealth Pivot.

It's an innovative device whose main gimmick is two revolving button modules that allow it to swap between a traditional Xbox controller layout and a button layout designed for 2D fighting games.

The Turtle Beach Stealth Pivot has other notable features like Hall Effect joysticks, triggers with trigger-stops, a built-in command display that lets you remap buttons on the fly, and more.

Two years later, Turtle Beach has sent a sample of the Stealth Pivot, and I've been given the honor of seeing if it lives up to lofty ambitions or crumbles under its own weight.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Turtle Beach. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

A transforming Xbox controller

I have used my fair share of the best Xbox controllers over the years, but the Turtle Beach Stealth Pivot is one of the wildest ones I've used yet.

It's compatible with Xbox Series X|S via USB-C, Windows PC via a 2.4GHz wireless dongle or cable (both the dongle and USB-C cable are included with the controller), and mobile devices via Bluetooth.

As mentioned before, the Turtle Beach Stealth Pivot's main feature is its two revolving input modules, each with its own set of controls.

The default modules consist of two Hall Effect analog sticks, four face buttons, whereas the alternate modules consist of a D-Pad with two buttons that function like the analog stick buttons, and six face buttons (two of which can be remapped).

The Turtle Beach Stealth Pivot's other controls include two triggers with trigger stops, two shoulder buttons, Select and Start buttons, an Xbox home button (a.k.a. Nexus button), a "Share" button, a 3.5mm audio jack port for gaming headsets, a slider for adjusting headset audio levels, and two remappable extra back buttons.

Another standout feature of the Turtle Beach Stealth Pivot is the built-in Command Display that allows you adjust your audio levels, remap the extra buttons, and check social notifications from your friends.

Unconventional but wickedly good

All these features sound overwhelming. However, I'm happy to report that they all work extremely well and are easy to use once you get the hang of them, especially so if you actually read the instruction manual included with the controller.

The default input module works well as a traditional Xbox controller. Its Hall Effect analog sticks are extremely precise when moving my character and aiming guns in DOOM: The Dark Ages and Monster Hunter Wilds, with no stick-drift felt at all during gameplay.

Its D-Pad, face buttons, shoulder buttons, and triggers are all incredibly responsive as well and feel good to use, plus the Trigger Locks are a nice bonus feature to help you fire the trigger faster when dominating the competition in games like Overwatch 2.

As for the alternative input modules, their D-Pad and face buttons are just as solid as the face buttons on the default input module.

Granted, I haven't tested these controls out with fighting games like Street Fighter, as I am absolutely terrible at them, and I feel I would be doing the genre and this controller an injustice if I tried to do so.

However, I am quite good at 2D action games like Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons, and Ninja Gaiden Ragebound, so I tested them on them instead.

I can gladly confirm that the Turtle Beach Stealth Pivot's alternative input module controls work splendidly with those games, especially with the D-Pad being positioned in a more natural place on the controller for 2D games, so you can happily use it for titles like Hollow Knight: Silksong.

Other aspects about this controller I liked are that it's comfortable to hold with an ergonomic design and smooth grips, and that it has a hefty and strong build that can endure a fair amount of use (and rage-quitting abuse).

On top of that, there's zero latency when playing it wirelessly on PC, and it has a long battery life of up to 20 hours. This means you won't suffer any annoying input lag while playing wirelessly, and you don't have to worry about your controller dying quickly during a day-long gaming session.

PC gamers pay attention

Honestly, I have little to no complaints about this controller other than personal taste.

For instance, I prefer the Hyperkin Competitor's segmented D-Pad more for 2D games, and I don't particularly care about being able to check social notifications, as I don't talk to people on my Xbox aside from a few close friends and family.

The only objectionable drawbacks I can see for the Turtle Beach Stealth Pivot are its MSRP of $139.99 being too rich for people's blood who just want a regular Xbox controller.

Plus, as a PC controller, it's lacking in modern standards as its polling rate comes in at about 125 Hz wireless and 165 Hz wired.

While this isn't too much of an issue for Xbox players, as the Xbox consoles are capped at 250 Hz, modern controllers are generally expected to reach much higher polling rates above 500 Hz or even 1,000 Hz.

So, if you're looking for a PC controller with the fastest inputs possible, you're better off with something else like the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro.

Should you buy the Turtle Beach Stealth Pivot?

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a premium-level Xbox controller with swappable and remappable control modules for multiple game genres, responsive controls, and comfy ergonomics.
• You need a wireless Xbox controller with little to no latency so you don't have to deal with cable management, and a long-lasting battery life to power it.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You don't care for its swappable button module gimmick and just want a standard Xbox controller that won't cost you over $100.
• You want a dedicated PC controller because the Turtle Beach Stealth Pivot has a limited polling rate, considering its price.

Despite its low polling rates on PC, I still enjoyed using the Turtle Stealth Pivot on Xbox.

It's a cool device that's essentially two controllers in one that costs $60 less than an Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller (MSRP $199.99), which doesn't feel as good as the Turtle Stealth Pivot in my opinion.

With its sturdy build, long battery life, and responsive, remappable controls, this has quickly shot to be one of my favorite Xbox controllers in the premium price range.

If you're looking for a top-notch Xbox controller to conquer 2026's upcoming Xbox games with sublime controls that can literally transform to suit either 3D or 2D games, then I strongly recommend the Turtle Beach Stealth Pivot.

CES 2026 is here, and it's bringing with it a tidal of new electronic gadgets and accessories for gamers to enjoy, including the new 8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox.

It's the latest entry in 8BitDo's Ultimate product line of Xbox controllers, and it's packed with advanced features, including swappable modules, TMR joysticks, 1000Hz polling on PC, and much more.

Essentially, it's a new premium-grade controller compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Windows 10/11 PCs, and Apple/Android devices.

Here's everything you need to know about the 8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox.

Its parts can be swapped out to suit the player's preferred playstyle or the game they're currently playing. These swappable parts include silicone or micro-switch ABXY button modules, Standard or Circular D-Pads, and two Tall joysticks, one Thick-neck joystick, and one Dome joystick.

Other major highlights include wider and tougher silicone grips for improved ergonomics, an integrated wireless charging dock, remappable extra shoulder buttons (marked R4 and L4), and improved controls thanks to its TMR Joysticks with 12-bit ADC sampling chips, Hall Effect Impulse Triggers with Two Trigger Stops.

On top of that, the 8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller also has 2.4G Wireless connectivity compatibility on Xbox and Windows PC with low latency, customizable 6-Axis Motion Controls, and a whopping polling rate of 1000Hz on PC regardless if you're using it in wired or wireless mode.

Here are the full tech specs of what you can expect from this Xbox controller, as stated on 8BitDo's official website:

Special Features

• 2.4G Wireless and Wired for Xbox and PC / Bluetooth for mobile.
• TMR joysticksEnhanced gripping with silicone texture.
• Hall-effect impulse triggers with two trigger stops.
• 2 pro-level back buttons.
• Extra fast bumpers (L4 and R4).
• Integrated wireless charging dock.
• Swappable magnetic faceplate and accessory pack.
• 6-axis motion control (PC only. Not supported on Xbox consoles).
• Up to 1000Hz polling rate (PC only. Not supported on Xbox consoles).
• Custom profile switch.
• Fire Ring - RGB lighting joysticks.
• 3.5mm audio jack and audio adjustment.
• Officially licensed by Xbox.

Compatibility

• Xbox Series X|S
• Xbox One
• Windows 10 (1903) and above
• Android 13 and above
• Apple

Connectivity

• Xbox Series / Xbox One: 2.4G or wired USB
• Windows 10 / 11 : 2.4G or wired USB
• Android and Apple devices: Bluetooth

Dimension / Weight

• 152.5×104.0×62.0mm
• 285.0g

Battery Type / Battery Life

• 1400mAh Li-ion battery, rechargeable
• 18 play hours with 4-5 hours charging time

Included items

• 8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox
• Charging Dock2.4G Adapter
• USB Cable
• Instruction Manual
• Additional accessory pack:
        Standard D-pad x 1
        Micro-switch ABXY Module x 1
        Tall Joystick x 1
        Dome Joystick x 1
        Thick-neck Joystick x 1

When can we expect to try the 8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox?

If you're attending CES 2026 in person this week at the LVCC Central Hall in Las Vegas, you will be able to get a hands-on preview of this controller by attending Booth #15641.

For those of us who can't attend the event, we will have to wait until it's released during Q2 of 2026. We'll be sure to keep an eye out when this new controller gets released and what it'll be priced at.

What are your first impressions of the 8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox? Will you be picking it up when it gets released or will you wait for more information regarding its price and hands-on reviews before making a decision? Let us know what you think in the comments below.

It feels like Razer has its hands in a little bit of everything at this point, but I still more or less know what to expect when I meet with the Razer team... until this Consumer Electronics Show, at least.

If you were expecting Razer Blade updates or new competitive PC and console gaming accessories at CES 2026, you won't find them here. Razer's showings this year were a little different, and I never quite knew what I'd be checking out next.

Razer's gaming AI companion is entering the physical world, the company has decided that smart headphones make a lot more sense than smart glasses, your gaming chair could one day offer all-in-one immersion, and... what else? Oh, the Razer Wolverine V3 is getting a Bluetooth variant designed with your TV in mind. Here's what you need to know.

Razer is experimenting and expanding

It's no secret that Razer has been investing more and more into artificial intelligence, especially given that the company unveiled its own gaming-centric AI companion, Project Ava, last CES.

AI is only becoming more important for Razer (like with many tech companies), and CES 2026 saw Project Ava take on an all-new form supported by a year of growth and evolution. Soon, instead of an unseen presence on your screen, Project Ava will be able to live on your desk as an actual, holographic companion that can see and hear you in real time. I didn't see this one coming, I'll be honest.

This is a real product coming this year, and you can actually reserve your own in the USA. The latest version of Project Ava will be a 5.5-inch, animated avatar contained within a very Razer-esque cylinder, and will theoretically be able to help you in real-life and on-screen with gaming, productivity, and everyday life.

Razer's initial avatars look pulled straight from anime, and the list will apparently grow as Project Ava's capabilities and popularity does. I'm not sure how many people will actually buy into this product, but I have to give Razer props for trying something different and trying to make AI fun in its own way.

While we're on the subject of AI companions that stick close to you, Razer also showed off its spin on the expanding smart wearables market, which is currently dominated by products like AR glasses. Enter Project Motoko, a concept for a pair of smart headphones equipped with dual PoV cameras.

By "PoV," I mean these headphones are designed to actually see exactly what you see by matching your eyeline, while most smart glasses are slightly above. Razer also argues that people are generally more comfortable wearing headphones than glasses, people with glasses don't have to worry about prescriptions, headphones make conversing with your AI companion more private, and — at the end of the day — you can simply use these as a great pair of wireless, Bluetooth headphones.

The idea is to have an always-present AI companion that sees and hears what you do, and can answer questions, provide feedback or directions, suggest ideas, translate languages, recognize images and objects, and more. Project Ava isn't making another appearance here, though, as Razer is planning to leave Mokoto open to the user; you'll be able to choose the LLM or AI companion that best suits your needs, which will run natively on the headphones until it needs your device's internet connection.

As you may have guessed from that last section, Razer is also planning to release Project Mokoto as a real product, but it won't look quite like this. The initial concept is built on something like the Razer Barracuda X Chroma I reviewed, but the final product could look very different (and will be flagship-level). Razer gave me a very tentative "2026" window for a potential launch, but that's absolutely not confirmed right now.

Razer also showed off a concept chair; no, not the concept chair that Razer showed off last CES with the built-in cooling and heating. Project Madison is all about immersion, bringing comfort, audio, haptics, and RGB together in one cohesive product. If you're familiar with the Razer Freya we reviewed, imagine a gaming chair with that built in, and with THX stereo speakers flanking your head, and reactive Razer Chroma lighting baked into the headrest.

Will this ever be a real product? I don't know; unlike the two previous "projects," Madison is following precedent in that it may never be available to purchase — but the ideas and concepts can absolutely influence future Razer products. Something you can buy is the Razer Iskur V2 NewGen. As the name suggests, it's basically the Razer Iskur V2 we reviewed, but with Razer taking in feedback about comfort and ergonomics to make it a better chair.

Finally, there's the Razer Wolverine V3 Bluetooth, a more mobile-oriented version of the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro we reviewed and loved. This controller takes the familiar design and class-leading controls, but takes advantage of cutting-edge ultra-low latency Bluetooth for maximum performance. It was also designed in partnership with LG, with native integration with the LG Gaming Portal and built-in TV controls.

I always have fun hanging out with Razer, and I can usually count on the company to surprise me with something. At CES 2026, nothing here stood out to me as something I personally need, but I like that Razer is continuing to experiment and try new things, as well as expanding into new categories. Hopefully, Windows Central will get its hands on a lot of this as it releases in the coming months.

What do you think about Razer's hardware announcements at CES 2026? Was there anything you were hoping to see that wasn't here? Let us know in the comments below!

It took far too long for Xbox to allow other companies to create their own wireless Xbox controllers, but we're finally seeing the dam break over the last year or so. Now, ASUS is joining the party with its latest Raikiri controller, and it's a multi-platform monster with some hardcore specs.

The ASUS ROG Raikiri II is now available for $189.99 at BestBuy.com, making it another premium wireless Xbox controller to compete with the best from Xbox and Razer. It boasts anti-drift Tunneling Magnetoresistance (TMR) thumbsticks, two-stage triggers, plenty of extra buttons, RGB lighting, and multi-device wireless connectivity.

ASUS designed this controller alongside the new Xbox Ally handheld, so it also features dedicated Armoury Crate and Command Center buttons for ultimate compatibility. Of course, the ROG Raikiri II also works flawlessly with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, and Bluetooth-connected devices.

Could this be the ultimate wireless Xbox controller?

Could the ASUS ROG Raikiri II end up being the new best Xbox controller money can buy? The potential may be there, but ASUS has some stiff competition — especially from the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro we praised in our 4.5/5-star review.

On paper, the ROG Raikiri II goes blow-for-blow with the Wolverine V3 Pro. The retail price is $10 lower, but you get more advanced TMR thumbsticks (instead of Hall Effect), Bluetooth connectivity, more RGB lighting, a wireless charging stand in the box, and dedicated Armoury Crate/Command Center shortcuts for superior PC integration.

All you're seemingly giving up is the Wolverine V3 Pro's lower weight and two additional claw grip bumper buttons. As long as the ROG Raikiri II can deliver on performance, ergonomics, and reliability, it could absolutely surpass the Wolverine V3 Pro.

The ROG Raikiri II will be especially tempting for Xbox Ally owners. The matching design cues aside, having dedicated Armoury Crate and Command Center buttons is a huge boon for the Xbox Ally when docked, allowing you to more easily change device settings on the fly than is possible with other controllers.

For me, though, whether the ROG Raikiri II will actually succeed in becoming the best wireless Xbox controller depends on two things: wireless stability and battery life. Razer's flagship controller has some known connectivity issues on Xbox and PC, and its rated battery life of around 20 hours is woefully low.

ASUS claims up to 50 hours of battery life with the ROG Raikiri II; that may be with RGB lighting and rumble feedback disabled, but the initial promise is still far better than Razer's. Fortunately, Windows Central is looking to get this controller in for review, so stay tuned for our in-depth analysis on this premium peripheral.

If you'd prefer not to wait, the ASUS ROG Raikiri II wireless controller is now available for $189.99 at BestBuy.com.

Even on PC, most people play Call of Duty on a controller. There's been much debate about the strength of a controller over a mouse and keyboard, and even at the very highest level, players are on controllers.

In such a fast-paced shooter, having the right equipment not only keeps you competitive but can also give you the edge.

It's hard to recommend one single controller, since Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is on Xbox, PS5, and PC. There is no controller that's compatible with every platform. If you're on PC, I can't recommend anything as highly as the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K, which is pricey at $199.99, but has an unbeatable 8,000 Hz polling rate.

Reviews

• Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC review
• Razer Wolverine V3 Pro review
• GameSir G7 Pro review
• Razer Raiju V3 Pro review
• GameSir G7 HE review
• Scuf Valor Pro review

A good controller can change the game

I would argue that more than any other shooter, your controller really makes a difference in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. Even in the PvE modes, Endgame and Zombies, the pace is so fast, you need accuracy, reliability, and ideally, extra buttons, so your thumbs can keep focusing on aiming.

On a tech front, don't buy a controller in 2025 and beyond if it doesn't have at least Hall Effect sticks. TMR sticks are the latest evolution, and they're a little better, but both will avoid the dreaded stick drift and accurately record your movements.

Razer's latest pro controllers, the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC and Raiju V3 Pro, both have TMR sticks, but you don't have to spend $200. The GameSir G7 Pro is less than half the price, but still has the tech.

A topic gaining more traction of late is polling rate, but it only applies to folks playing on PC. On Xbox and PS5, the polling rate of any controller is capped at 250 Hz. On PC, there's theoretically no cap, with the leader right now the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K, with a class-leading 8,000 Hz polling rate.

To have a good competitive experience, you want at least 1,000 Hz on PC, which you can get from every controller featured here. GameSir, Scuf, and the Xbox version of the Wolverine V3 Pro all have 1,000 Hz polling on PC. The Razer Raiju V3 Pro tops out at 2,000.

FAQ

When I reviewed the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro back in late 2024, I had no hesitation calling it "the closest thing we have to Xbox controller perfection." There were some minor grumbles, and in the year or so since, there have been a couple of issues to fix.

But the controller itself was, at the time, about the best-equipped controller for the enthusiast crowd and pro players. Razer doesn't sit still, though, and recently I've been using and loving the Raiju V3 Pro, a PS5 and PC controller packed with even more tech.

What I'm looking at here, though, is something which combines bits of both of these controllers, while also delivering something only possible right now on PC.

The Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC (to give its full birth name) is a Wolverine V3 Pro on the outside, upgraded a bit on the inside, and given a whopping 8,000Hz polling rate, something virtually no other controller on the planet has as standard.

If you want the best performance out of the box, this is it. This is the one. It's here in time for Black Ops 7, and I think that I'll be using it to play.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample supplied by Razer. The company did not see or have any input into its contents.

How does the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC differ from the Wolverine V3 Pro

The overall look and feel of the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC is almost the same as last year's Wolverine V3 Pro. Obviously, there's no Xbox button, but you can still use the Razer button (located in its place) to launch the Xbox Game Bar on PC if you wish.

The grips are better on the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC, too, wrapping around the front of the controller. It has all the same buttons as the Xbox version, and they're in all the same places, but visually it's a full black on black stealth look, which I dig.

As it's a PC only controller, the headset jack has gone from the bottom, and, as with the Raiju V3 Pro, this being a controller aimed at pro players, there are no rumble motors inside. The positive side effect is that it weighs noticeably less than the Xbox version. 84g less (0.19lbs) to be precise.

The polling rate is the big selling point, though. A number of the keenest players resort to "overclocking" their controllers to increase the polling rate. With this, you don't have to. The Wolverine V3 Pro is still pretty hot with a 1,000Hz polling rate on PC, but it pales next to its newer sibling.

For context, the Wolverine V3 Pro tops out at 250Hz on Xbox Series X|S. 8,000 is a lot more.

Why should I even care about a higher polling rate?

In the same way you want a gaming monitor with a high refresh rate and low response time, in a competitive environment, you want your controller to be fast, too. That means the lowest input latency you can manage, and for that, you want a high polling rate.

It's all about giving yourself every slight edge.

The polling rate is simply how often your controller talks to the PC. 8,000Hz means the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC is reporting your inputs to the PC 8,000 times per second.

That means a polling interval, or latency, is an absurdly low 0.125ms. At 1,000Hz, it's a whopping 1ms. I say that jokingly, because in all truth, a human being is unlikely to be able to tell the difference.

But compared to a standard Xbox controller, which is just 125Hz, or even the Wolverine V3 Pro at 250Hz on Xbox, with 8ms and 4ms polling intervals respectively, you can see the difference playing on PC can have at the very leading edge.

Faster means better. If you have the best monitor, the best PC, you want the best controller to go with it. Razer's unfair advantage is in full swing.

So what's the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC like to use?

The tl;dr version is that it's utterly glorious. It's as comfortable to hold and use as the Wolverine V3 Pro, with the added bonus of being significantly lighter. When you get to my age, that's important. My wrists ache much less after a long session using the lighter, PC-only version.

Has the insane performance made me a better player? No amount of technology could do that, and truthfully, I cannot perceive any difference on screen between this, the Wolverine V3 Pro at 1,000Hz, and the Raiju V3 Pro at 2,000Hz. But it's there doing its thing, and it's as responsive a controller as I've ever put my meat hooks on.

In my testing, too, using the Polling tester by Gamepadla, it's delivering. In multiple tests, it reports a polling rate of around 7,500Hz, which, sure, isn't 8,000, but it's very close. It's also dependent on your PC.

For example, using the USB ports on my PC case, it tops out at 6,250Hz, but connected to a USB port on the motherboard yields the best performance of closer to 8,000Hz. A latency of less than 0.2ms is absurd, and the best you're going to get right now on any pro-grade controller.

Better still, the performance seems to be almost identical whether connected via USB cable or using the HyperSpeed Wireless dongle. Running the same test while connected using the dongle yielded nearly indistinguishable performance wirelessly versus wired.

That in itself is award-worthy. Traditionally, you expect to lose performance when you lose the cable, but not in this case. Objectively, the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC is as good to use wired as it is wireless.

Assuming you don't factor in the battery life, which, well, is not great. It wasn't great on the Xbox version, and with more performance, it doesn't get better. You can use Synapse 4 to help, such as making sure it turns off when you stop using it, but my advice would be to use it wired. That's what I do on console or PC these days, anyway, because I don't want to have to worry about it.

As with the Raiju V3 Pro that I reviewed recently, I adore the addition of TMR thumbsticks. I still can't quantify why I like them so much or how they feel better than Hall Effect, but they do. Or I think they do. There's just something about them that you notice when you start to use them.

The Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC can also make the absolute most of them. TMR sticks can register a higher accuracy with stick position. With the absurd polling rate on tap here, you can guarantee that every little movement is accurately translated into your game.

As with Razer's other pro-grade controllers, it ships with a couple of additional thumbsticks you can swap out. One has a convex curve, and one is the same as the stock sticks, only longer.

Is there anything the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC doesn't have?

For a controller that has everything, there are things it doesn't have that some may miss. I've already talked about the rumble motors, the absence of which doesn't make this a good choice for, say, racing games.

The crazy lightness can also leave the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC feeling a little hollow, and even cheap. The plastics are the same as on the Wolverine V3 Pro, but the weight can certainly trick you into thinking it's not built as well.

Despite being Razer's highest spec controller, it doesn't quite have all the features, either. Notably, the Rapid Trigger and Digital Trigger features that was added to the Wolverine V3 Pro and came out of the box on the Raiju V3 Pro.

Given the sheer speed of the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K, such features missing aren't necessarily a dealbreaker, but it's still worth highlighting.

It's also worth pointing out that there's no Bluetooth connectivity on this controller, either. If you want to go wireless, you have to use the dongle. Bluetooth isn't exactly keeping with the theme of performance, but if you're on the move, you do at least have a carry case with a slot to keep the dongle in, so you don't forget it.

Should you buy the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC?

It's hard to come up with a true alternative or comparison to this controller, because there's simply nothing else like it right now.

The obvious disclaimer is that unless you know you definitely only want a controller for PC play, then this one isn't for you. However, if you do, it's hard to beat on a technical level, and there are additional benefits.

For one, while it's still expensive, being a PC-only controller means it's actually cheaper than the list price for the Wolverine V3 Pro or the Raiju V3 Pro in some locations, such as the UK (sadly, they're the same price in the U.S.) Therefore, if you're a PC player, you can save a bit of cash and get more performance.

I can't think of another controller I'd recommend more than this right now to the enthusiast or pro crowd for PC. There are no real compromises, even if you want to use it wirelessly, and it removes the need for any thoughts of using third-party tools to overclock another controller.

The differences may be unperceivable to the naked eye, but the performance is there, and the testing backs it up. If you want the fastest PC controller on the planet, this is it. And if you want all this but don't care about going wireless, you can save $80 and get the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC Tournament Edition, instead.

With Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 on the horizon, and Battlefield 6 already here, this would be a perfect controller for either.

When it comes to Xbox controllers, they don't get more iconic than the "Duke" for the original Xbox with its bulky, arcade-like face button, and that massive nexus button that's become a staple for nearly every modern controller.

I love this beast of a gamepad, and its 20th Anniversary Edition is now on an early Black Friday sale for $55.24 at Amazon for us retro Xbox fans to enjoy.

Why the "Duke" is still one of the greatest Xbox controllers ever

When Hyperkin launched its recreation of the Duke controller back in 2018, I had to get my hands on it to relive the good old days of playing Halo 1 and 2 with my buddies.

After my nostalgia trip was over, I then decided to play it with modern Xbox games at the time, like Monster Hunter World and Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, for a laugh. To my surprise, the Duke's design still holds up even after 20 years despite its questionable size.

Hyperkin's take on the Duke is a well-made Xbox controller in its own right. The original face buttons and d-pad are responsive, and Hyperkin's newly added shoulder buttons and precision analog triggers give the Duke much-needed improvement while staying true to the original Xbox controller's design.

It also has a few extra features like an OLED screen for the Nexus button (which plays the original Xbox's boot-up animation), a 3.5mm audio jack port for headphone jack, and a detachable USB-C cable.

While modern gamers may find this controller cumbersome due to its mammoth-sized build, unfit for smaller hands, old-school Xbox fans will absolutely love this controller.

It is a perfect revival of an ancient piece of Xbox history and one that helped set the standard for the future best Xbox controllers to come.

If you want to play Xbox games like I did in the early 2000s, especially with the upcoming Halo: Campaign Evolved, you can get your hands on the Hyperkin Duke Controller for 39% off its $89.99 MSRP with this early Black Friday bargain for $55.24 at Amazon.

FAQ

Every so often, a new term sneaks into controller specs that makes even controller collectors like me pause and squint. The latest buzzword is TMR, short for Tunneling Magnetoresistance. It might sound like something salvaged from the Roswell crash, but it’s actually a new magnetic sensing technology used in controller sticks, and many brands are starting to use it.

You’ve probably only just gotten familiar with Hall Effect joysticks and their promise of ending stick drift, now along comes TMR, touted as the next step forward in precision. So what exactly is it, how does it differ from Hall Effect, and do you really need it in your controller?

What are TMR sticks?

TMR stands for Tunneling Magnetoresistance, and that's the last time I'm going to type that in full. TMR is another form of contactless magnetic sensing, so it operates just like Hall Effect, but it works a little differently under the hood.

Instead of detecting magnetic fields through voltage changes (as Hall Effect does), TMR sensors measure changes in electrical resistance caused by magnetic fields. This difference allows TMR sensors to pick up even tinier movements and deliver more precise readings.

TMR technology itself isn’t actually all that new. It dates back to the good old 1990s, when it was used for magnetic hard drives, and it’s been in industrial sensors and the automotive industry for years, but it’s only recently made its way into gaming controllers thanks to falling costs and smaller components. Basically, scientists figured out how to miniaturize these sensors, and now every Call of Duty sweat can benefit.

How are TMR sticks different from Hall Effect?

You could think of Hall Effect as the first major leap forward from analog, and TMR as the next evolution. Both eliminate physical contact, which means no stick drift and a much longer lifespan. But TMR takes it up a notch in a few ways. TMR has higher sensitivity because it detects smaller stick movements, so it's great for racing games or shooters where precision matters.

There's also a lower power draw to consider, as TMR sticks are more energy-efficient, which is particularly important for wireless controllers and gaming handhelds.

There are 3 stick types you'll find in a controller, listed in order of precision (aka most fancy):

• Analog which relies on physical friction and wears down
• The Hall Effect, which uses magnets and voltage changes
• TMR which measures resistance instead of voltage

TMR sticks are also more stable over time. They tend to stay perfectly centered with virtually no dead zone, even after heavy use. Of course, all of that comes at a price. TMR sensors cost more to produce, which is why most mainstream controllers still stick (no pun intended) with Hall Effect or traditional analog parts.

Which controllers actually use TMR sticks?

As of now, only a handful of controllers have adopted TMR technology, with no Xbox wireless console-compatible models yet, but there are a few options if you play on a Windows PC or Nintendo Switch (or dock your gaming handheld to the TV).

First off, though, if you don't mind playing with a wire, there's the GameSir G7 Pro that is compatible with Xbox. It's pricier than GameSir's other options but comes with rubber grips, swappable faceplates, micro switch buttons, and a charging stand for playing wirelessly (on other platforms).

If you game primarily on PC, and you have money to burn, the Razer Wolverine V3 8K is even better.

The most affordable I can recommend would be the GameSir Cyclone 2, and bonus points if you can pick it up as a bundle with the magnetic charging stand. It's a standout that leans into the ultra-smooth motion you'd expect from TMR sticks, and battery life is fantastic. It's only around $55 with the charging stand, but it often gets put on sale, so keep an eye out if you want to shave another $10 off.

Another option for those who want a multi-use controller for Switch and PC is the GameSir Tarantula Pro, which also includes a nifty feature that lets you change the order of the ABXY buttons.

Whichever you choose, a good TMR controller should feel buttery smooth and frictionless when using the sticks. While I've used more luxury options like the PB Tails range, the implementation of the tech in both the high-end controllers and these GameSir options is great.

What gaming handhelds have TMR sticks?

To date, there aren't any gaming handhelds that have implemented TMR technology, which is disappointing given the opportunity to save on battery life in comparison to Hall Effect. Still, many manufacturers are yet to even jump on the Hall Effect train.

There are still only a handful of gaming handhelds that use Hall Effect, namely the Lenovo Legion Go, the Lenovo Legion Go 2, and the Lenovo Legion Go S. I'm sensing a theme...

If you don't play a lot of competitive shooters or racing games, then shelling out for a TMR controller is likely completely unnecessary for you. However, if you’ve ever replaced a controller because of drift, or if you’re sensitive to dead zones and fine aim adjustments, TMR tech is worth paying attention to.

TMR is the kind of upgrade that makes sense if you’re already into premium controllers and want the latest tech edge, but it’s not something you need to enjoy gaming. If you are paying for a controller advertised as 'pro', it’s fair to expect cutting-edge internals that actually last, so it's certainly something to be looking for on a spec list, but that's it.

Right now, TMR sits where Hall Effect was a few years ago. It's niche and a little expensive, but it's gaining traction. As manufacturing costs drop, it’s likely we’ll see more mid-range controllers adopting it, and hopefully more so in the handheld market, where power efficiency is crucial. If we’re lucky, one day the big brands will make it standard (but I can predict that Xbox will be last to the table!)

I have been playing games with Xbox controllers for nearly two decades now, but I will admit, there are times when I miss playing with a PlayStation controller. Its iconic design and button layout were perfect for playing 2D games like sidescrollers, beat 'em ups, and other fighting games.

Sometimes I wished someone had made an Xbox controller that followed the PlayStation's design rather than the traditional Xbox controllers, which are more suited for 3D games and first-person shooters.

Little did I know I would finally get my wish in 2025 with the subject for today: Hyperkin's "The Competitor" controller.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Hyperkin. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Not so subtle, but still unique

This curious gadget is, indeed, an Xbox controller from the broadly recognized third-party gaming accessory manufacturer, Hyperkin, unmistakably designed to emulate the PlayStation 5 DualSense controller.

When I first saw the Hyperkin Competitor's reveal during CES 2025, I was curious to try it out as I enjoyed Hyperkin's throwback to the classic 'Duke' Xbox controller.

Thankfully, I was recently given the opportunity to play with it ahead of its October 29, 2025, release date, and it's left me beyond impressed.

I'd even go as far as to say that's now one of my new favorite Xbox controllers and one I'd recommend to any Xbox fan wanting to experience 2D with more natural control, provided they don't mind wired-only controllers.

Perfect for playing 2D games

The Hyperkin Competitor is a wired-only controller that's compatible with Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC via a USB-C to USB-A cable packaged with it. It's also bundled with a pair of spare analog stick toppers and a free-month trial for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

The controller itself is a stacked unit, built with sturdy plastic construction that feels good to touch and comfortable to hold, thanks to its PlayStation-5-inspired ergonomic design.

Hyperkin's Competitor controls consist of a D-pad, four face buttons, two Hall Effect analog sticks, shoulder buttons, Impulse Triggers with haptic feedback, Select and Start buttons, a mic mute button, a 3.5mm audio jack port for gaming headsets, and two reprogrammable back buttons.

It also includes Xbox-centric buttons such as an Xbox home button (a.k.a. Nexus button) and a "Share" button.

On a side note, if you want to remap the extra back buttons, you can hold the 'M' button on the back of the controller, then hold the back button you want to remap for a few seconds, let go, then press the button you want to assign to it.

I personally assign the analog sticks' L3 and R3 buttons to the back buttons, as it's more reliable than having to press the analog sticks to use them. Plus, it reduces the risk of damaging them. You can also lock the back buttons in place if you don't feel like using them or want to avoid accidental inputs in the middle of a boss fight.

It's kind of surreal seeing a PlayStation-style layout on an Xbox controller, but it works extraordinarily well in-hand. Latency wasn't an issue for performing complicated moves using the D-Pad and face buttons, ensuring I didn't suffer from any input error or dropped combos.

The Hall Effect analog sticks and triggers felt so precise when detecting my inputs that I physically felt my aim improving when playing FPS titles like DOOM: The Dark Ages, with no stick drift to throw off my aim whatsoever.

Moreover, the triggers' haptic feedback, well, 'trigger' a satisfying rumble from the controller when pulling them. It feels immersively enjoyable when playing FPS titles, as it makes you feel like you're actually pulling the trigger on a gun and feeling it roar to life as it sprays bullets on enemies.

Above all, though, the Hyperkin Competitor felt so much better to play 2D games with a PlayStation-style layout than an Xbox-style layout. The placement of the D-Pad just feels much more natural for playing 2D sidescrolling titles like Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons, and Ninja Gaiden Ragebound.

Not to mention the segmented PlayStation-style D-pad made it much easier to pull off complicated, fighting game-esque inputs for special moves or simply moving about on a 2D plane.

That doesn't mean to say that the Hyperkin Competitor isn't capable of performing well with 3D games, far from it. I was able to play action-heavy 3D titles like Ninja Gaiden 4 and Monster Hunter Wilds with gratifying ease.

Although that's partly due to my past familiarity using PlayStation controllers in my youth.

If you have never used a PlayStation-style controller before and decide to get the Hyperkin Competitor, it may take some getting used to, but the immense satisfaction you'll get from using it will be worth it.

Hyperkin The Competitor: Final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• If you want a wired Xbox controller with responsive and accurate controls, excellent build quality, and comfortable ergonomics.
• An Xbox controller with a PlayStation-style D-Pad+Analog layout to better play 2D games.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• If you want a wireless controller to avoid cable management.
• If you want a 3rd-party controller with advanced features but with the traditional Xbox D-Pad/Analog stick layout.

I honestly have no personal complaints with this controller at all; it's just simply that good, and a contender to rank among the best Xbox controllers. The only objectionable drawback I can think of is that this controller is purely wired, with no wireless/Bluetooth connectivity whatsoever, barely costing it half a point.

I'm personally not affected by it, as I prefer wired controllers, but if you can't stand having to deal with cable management, this controller may not be for you. Otherwise, the Competitor is an absolute must-try for Xbox fans and even PC fans yearning for a high-quality, wired controller to better enjoy 2D games.

If you play on PC, you're always spoiled for choice when it comes to accessories. Controllers are no different, since you have the benefit of using hardware not only built for PC, but from the Xbox and PlayStation ecosystems.

What I've been lucky enough to play with falls into the latter of those. The Razer Raiju V3 Pro launches today and is Razer's latest and greatest controller, not just for PS5, but for PC, too.

Sony's conditions of license mean that there's only one Raiju, and as such, Razer has thrown absolutely everything it has at it. Perhaps more shockingly, I think I even prefer it to the controller I've been using since it came out, the Wolverine V3 Pro, which is Razer's best on Xbox (that obviously also works well on PC). Even with the PlayStation stick layout.

This review was made possible thanks to a pre-release review sample supplied by Razer. The company did not see or have any input into its contents.

A word on PlayStation features

This review is, naturally, focused on PC use. But for anyone who's interested in PlayStation 5, there are a couple of differences. For one, the polling rate is limited to a maximum of 250Hz on PS5.

This isn't a choice on Razer's part to deliberately limit it compared to PC, it's the maximum possible. So you're still getting the absolute best you can get on the console.

Razer also doesn't have an app for PS5 to make adjustments to the controller. Folks who have used Razer controllers on Xbox know we've had a dedicated app to tweak settings and save profiles, but this can't be done on PS5. The choices are to use the smartphone app, or hook it up to a PC or Mac and use Razer Synapse.

Also, down to decisions in Sony's licensing for controllers, you don't have the full DualSense feature set, such as the haptic triggers. In fact, it doesn't rumble at all, it just doesn't have any motors inside.

Given the target audience is traditionally gamers that would disable it anyway, it's not a huge miss. But it's probably not the controller to get if you play a lot of racing games.

The best of the best

If it's possible on a controller right now, it's on the Razer Raiju V3 Pro. Top of the list are TMR thumbsticks, the latest upgrade over Hall Effect sticks. The Wolverine 8K from Razer (the PC only controller) predates the Raiju V3 Pro in using them, but compared to the Wolverine V3 Pro I've been using, it's an upgrade.

The assumption is newer tech is better, and I've been trying to figure out whether I'm telling myself they feel better or whether they actually are. I am leaning towards the latter, albeit having taken a little while to adjust and to dial in some comfortable settings. Comparing to my Wolverine V3 Pro, the sticks do feel a hair better, but it's hard to quantify.

As with Hall Effect, though, one big advantage is eliminating the dreaded prospect of stick drift. Razer also includes a taller concave stick, and a convex stick you can swap out if you'd prefer.

One other feature I love, compared to some past Razer controllers I've used, is that the rear paddles are removable. They're still the same sort of design as on the Wolverines, but included is a screwdriver and some rubber caps to replace them with. I use all four, but some folks don't, especially with the additional buttons next to the bumpers.

It's all part of allowing you to customize it however you want, and if you'd prefer to just have grip rather than buttons you don't want to use, you can. However, it's a little fiddly unscrewing these things, and if you're clumsy — as I certainly am — those tiny screws will be easy to lose.

The face buttons are "mecha tactile" and as with every recent Razer controller, they're deliciously clicky. Razer has started utilizing its mouse technology in controllers, and so when you press the buttons and think it sounds like a mouse click, it does.

This technology is also integrated in the triggers. When you use the trigger stops, you get instant response and that same mouse click, versus a regular analog response when they're disabled. Again, all geared towards providing the best possible performance for competitive gamers.

In software, you also have the ability to enable "digital triggers," which removes the analog response entirely, but you'll probably not want that enabled for any games where you need a more sensitive trigger curve.

From someone who uses a Wolverine V3 Pro, the differences are subtle, but if you're coming from an older controller, what you get here will blow you away. Besides all the tech you can shake a stick at (and we know gamers love them some tech), one key aspect not to be overlooked is the weight.

Because it doesn't have any haptics or rumble motors at all, the Raiju V3 Pro is light. It's noticeably lighter than my Wolverine, and let me tell you, when you get to my age, especially, your wrists will appreciate it.

Customization is as easy as any other Razer controller on PC. You have the option of using the mobile app, if you like, otherwise it's a case of firing up Synapse 4, making your changes, saving them to the controller, then closing the app. Profiles are stored on the controller, so you can move between devices — and platforms — seamlessly without losing your settings.

Even with the PlayStation stick layout, I can't put the Raiju V3 Pro down

I'm no stranger to PlayStation, even if I no longer actually own a PS5. I've had every single one of them, so the stick layout is something I've had to persevere with (mostly). There were times I got away from it, such as with a previous Raiju controller, but I'm familiar, even if I don't love it.

My overall preference has always been the offset layout you get on an Xbox controller, but honestly, I cannot put the Raiju V3 Pro down. I've mostly been testing it in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, and in this environment, I'm almost at the point of preferring it this way.

I think it comes down to how the controller is being held. When I'm playing Call of Duty, despite being the furthest from a pro-level player, I'm automatically in a competitive mood. I'm using all the paddles on the rear, and I didn't notice until recently, but I adjust my grip slightly compared to other games.

Whatever's going on, my centering has never been better since using the Raiju V3 Pro, and I've only been using it a week.

There are also a number of ways folks like to hold their controllers playing competitive games, and in each case, I think the stick placement here makes sense. I wouldn't use it to play a more relaxing game, but when I'm locking in for a six-hour sweatfest, I think this is going to be the controller I reach for.

One of the absolute best PC controllers around

The fact Razer had to make this an epic controller for PS5 is equally beneficial to those of us on PC. The polling rate, sticks, switches, all are about the best you'll find on any controller by any manufacturer right now.

It's a little more limited on PS5 in places due to Sony's restrictions, but on the whole, you're going to love it whichever platform you're on.

It exists, in part, because there is a demand from the top-level of competitive players, for a controller of this nature with the PlayStation stick layout. There's nothing stopping future Xbox controllers like this, either. If that's a thing you want, speak up. Don't be afraid — I know it's the forbidden fruit, but clearly there are plenty who prefer it.

Razer's closest match on PC is the Wolverine V3 8K, which I'm still waiting to test. It has a faster polling rate, but, like the Raiju, TMR thumbsticks and all the lovely mouse tech inside. There's never been a better choice across all manufacturers of pro-grade controllers.

If you're a PS5 and PC cross-player, this is an absolute no-brainer. It's light, it's comfortable, and I've used Razer controllers exclusively as my personal choice for many years now. In that time, I've never once had an issue with reliability or durability. These things are built to last, assuming you don't toss them at a wall or anything in a fit of rage.

If you're PC only, the choices are a little wider, but if you want something with the PlayStation stick layout, definitely consider this one. It is pricey, though, but the best of the best always is.

The Razer Raiju V3 Pro is available from today in selected markets for £199.99. It currently isn't available to U.S. customers as it hasn't yet received regulatory clearance, but when it does, it'll be priced at $219.99.

If you don't have the budget to afford one of the more expensive Xbox Elite controllers or 3rd-party controllers from the likes of Razer or Hyperkin, then don't fret.

The official Xbox wireless controller still stands as the best option available for ergonomic build, great performance, and comparatively modest MSRP of $64.99. A price that has been slashed by 23% to $49.99 at Amazon.

What makes the official Xbox wireless controller worth using?

The official, Microsoft-branded Xbox wireless controller has some stiff competition these days from the likes of the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro or the GameSir Super Nova.

Yet despite the odds, it's still regarded by many (including us here at Windows Central) as overall one of the best Xbox controllers that's value-for-money while packing enough technology to help you beat the toughest Xbox games out there.

It features an ergonomic design with a lightweight, balanced build that's comfy to hold and will ensure you don't strain on your wrists or hands for many hours of gaming.

The buttons are responsive with a satisfying, clicky feedback; it has a dedicated "Share" to capture and share personal gameplay screenshots or clips, and it can be bought in various colors or unique designs through Xbox Design Labs.

Ff course, what wireless controller would be complete without wireless connectivity? The Xbox wireless controller can connect to Xbox consoles and Windows PC through reliable Bluetooth connections with a 20-foot max range (which can be enhanced with Xbox Wireless Dongles sold separately).

The only major downside is that this controller lacks an internal rechargeable battery, so you will need to find one sold separately.

The best part about this controller is its affordable MSRP of $64.99, which makes it an affordable option compared to other wireless controllers that have MSRPs of $199.99, like the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core and the aforementioned Razer Wolverine V3 Pro.

Plus, when you take into account Amazon's 23% discount, taking the Xbox Wireless controller's price down $49.99, making $150 cheaper than either of those options, it's practically a steal by comparison.

FAQ

If you're looking for an Xbox/PC controller with performance and build quality that goes beyond what the standard Xbox controller offers, Razer is one of the top 3rd companies to go for.

Razer has spent many years honing their craft to create the best gaming controllers on the market and one of their latest creations that will suit your needs perfectly is the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition Controller.

This wired, controller with Hall Effect components and Mecha-Tactile buttons normally fetches a somewhat high retail price of $99.99.

However, Amazon Prime Day has come to slash that MSRP tag down faster than the superhero this controller is named after to a much more affordable price of $61.50 on Amazon.

What's the major selling points of the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition controller?

Razer has always been my personal favorite company for third-party gaming accessories as their Xbox and PC Gaming compatible controllers are some of the best in the business.

My favorite one product of Razer's is the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma which was so good it felt like cheating.

Sadly though after many years helping me hunt monsters in Monster Hunter and Soulslikes like Elden Ring, its starting to give up the ghost so now I'm going to find a replacement.

Fortunately, Amazon is hosting a limited-time discount for the V2 Chroma's successor, the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition controller, making this the perfect time for an upgrade.

What's so special about the V3 Tournament Edition? It's a high-quality wired Xbox/PC controller that features all the hallmarks of the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro controller that sacrifices wireless connectivity for half of the V3 Pro's $199.99 MSRP.

That means this controller is built with kinds of advanced features to help you beat the toughest out games out there whether they're competitive PvP titles like Call of Duty or chaotic co-op titles like Borderlands 4.

These features include Hall Effect Triggers and Analog Sticks. These components help read your button and stick movement inputs faster with high accuracy so you can quick precise headshots or stealthily sneak up on enemies without accidentally giving yourself away.

It also features additional back buttons and shoulder bumpers you can assign input shortcuts to in certain games, Mecha-tactile face buttons that can endure many hours of intense button mashing, and a compact design that is ergonomic-friendly so you don't strain your hands during long gaming sessions.

However, there are some issues to watch out for when using the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition controller. It's compact shape and oversized triggers make it difficult for players with certain hand sizes to wield.

Plus there have been reports some copies of this controller's rumble motors making rougher sounds than the Wolverine V3 Pro and its cable has questionable build-quality to the point where it cause unintentional connectivity loss during gameplay.

If you're lucky enough to a own a copy that doesn't have these issues and you don't mind using wired controllers, than the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition is a must-buy as its one of the best Xbox controllers currently on the market.

If you want to a hold of this controller for yourself if you're looking for a new controller like me, then the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition is currently on sale for $69.99, courtesy of Amazon Prime Day.

However, you will need Amazon Prime Membership to access this deal. It's not a bad price to pay however as you will get access to exclusive deals not found anywhere else, faster shipping, access to streaming services, and other useful benefits.

FAQ

On September 24, 2025, Xbox Design Lab debuted a design for Xbox Series X|S controllers themed after Ninja Gaiden 4, the long-overdue 4th mainline entry in the Ninja Gaiden franchise (via Xbox Wire).

These slick designs incorporate elements of Ninja Gaiden 4’s main characters, Ryu Hayabusa and Yakumo, to form a stylish appearance that is sure to give Ninja Gaiden players a massive confidence boost when taking on this upcoming Xbox title’s lethal death traps and insanely challenging, demonic bosses.

Here’s everything you need to know about this controller.

The Xbox Design Lab Ninja Gaiden 4 Xbox controller comes in one of two forms: Xbox Wireless Controller – Ninja Gaiden 4, and Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – Ninja Gaiden 4.

Each controller’s top casing is outfitted with an artistic design that blends Ryu Hayabusa’s legendary Red Dragon Katana and new protagonist Yakumo’s blue-handled katana with Yakumo’s Oni mask in the middle to create a striking, manga print-inspired image.

You aren’t just limited to the default designs, either as Xbox Design Lab will let you customize each controller’s button styles and color scheme to accentuate the red and blue textured side grips.

You can even upgrade these controllers with extra add-ons like metallic triggers and D-Pad, rubberized side and back grips, and free 3D-printed adaptive thumbstick topper files.

On top of that, the Ninja Gaiden 4 Xbox controllers feature Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth, which will allow you to connect them to an Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, iOS, Android, or a cloud device with relative ease.

As a bonus, the Xbox Ninja Gaiden 4 Xbox controllers have a dedicated share button so you can take pictures and video recordings of your most epic moments or brutal boss kills of your Ninja Gaiden 4 playthrough.

The Elite Series 2 variant of the Ninja Gaiden 4 Xbox controller is packed with special features you won’t find on a regular Xbox controller. These include shorter hair trigger locks, wrap-around rubberized grips, and adjustable-tension thumbsticks so you can make more precise movements, headshots, and combo attacks with little to no input while you’re slicing and dicing enemies in-game.

You can also customize the Ninja Gaiden 4 Elite Series 2 Xbox Controller with back paddles so you can have buttons to execute shortcut actions for normally complicated maneuvers to make your gaming life easier.

The controller also includes a dedicated middle button, which lets you swap custom button profiles in an instant, and a 3.5mm jack so you can plug in gaming headphones and listen to Ninja Gaiden 4’s electrifying soundtrack.

Never fail to cut down a demon again with Xbox Design Lab’s Ninja Gaiden 4 Xbox controller

Never fail to cut down a demon again with Xbox Design Lab’s Ninja Gaiden 4 Xbox controller

Xbox Design Lab’s Ninja Gaiden 4 Xbox controllers are now available for purchase at the official website, with the Ninja Gaiden 4 Xbox Wireless Controller costing $94.98 at retail, while the Ninja Gaiden 4 Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 has an MSRP of $184.98.

I gotta say, these controller designs by Xbox Design Lab look really cool and are a must-have for Ninja Gaiden fans on Xbox, regardless of whether they’re a franchise veteran or a newcomer.

I belong in the latter category as I have only recently gotten into the series after beating the excellent Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, and have been looking forward to playing Ninja Gaiden 4 after reading my colleague, Samuel Tolbert’s, hands-on preview with the game.

Ninja Gaiden 4 is looking to be the series’ epic comeback after being gone for over a decade, with a brutal, bloody combat system rife with complexity, a giant arsenal of deadly weapons to use, insanely challenging enemies to battle, and multiple difficulty options to make it accommodating for newcomers to the Ninja Gaiden franchise.

It’s set to launch on October 21, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation 5, and PC via Windows and Steam, and I can’t wait to play it with a Ninja Gaiden 4-themed version of one of the best Xbox controllers.

In the mood to grab more Xbox controllers? Then you're in luck, with the Xbox team unveiling new "Breaker" designs on Wednesday via Xbox Wire, with three new controllers on the way.

The Xbox Breaker special edition lineup consists of the Ice Breaker, Storm Breaker, and Heart Breaker, which you can see in the image above. The Ice Breaker is themed after snow and frozen seawater, with a partially translucent shell to further sell the frozen effect. The Storm Breaker may not be the one wielded by Thor, but it does have a metallic D-pad alongside the black-and-white color scheme.

Finally, the Heart Breaker pops out with plentiful color thanks to the splashy blue, pink, and purple design.

Naturally, all of these controllers are built in the design of the regular Xbox Series X|S controller but are also compatible with Xbox One consoles and Windows PCs.

All three Breaker special edition controllers are available for preorder now via the Microsoft Store at $80, and they should pop up across other retailers soon. All three controllers are also slated to launch on Sept. 9, 2025, meaning you won't be waiting long if you want to get your hands on one of them.

More options coming to Xbox Design Lab later this year

The Breaker special edition controllers aren't the only way to get a new Xbox controller design right now.

If you missed it, the Xbox Design Lab is back open now, letting players customize their own unique Xbox controllers with different flourishes and specific elements, choosing from a standard Xbox Series X|S controller or the Elite Series 2 lineup. You can even add a Gamertag or other brief message.

The system was offline for several months in a row, with Microsoft claiming it was moving payment processors.

If you've held off this long, though, it may be a good idea to keep waiting just a bit longer. The Xbox Design Lab is getting several new options later this year, including a refresh of some previous limited edition Xbox controllers you can't easily find anymore.

That includes the DOOM: The Dark Ages and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt 10th Anniversary controllers that launched earlier this year. If you're thinking about either design and wishing you hadn't missed out, just hold on a bit longer.

In particular, I know the Witcher 3 controllers sold out extremely fast, and were difficult (if not outright impossible) to find online just a few days after being announced.

I'm hoping we'll see this strategy for all Xbox Limited Edition controllers moving forward, as it removes some of the time pressure and allows players the chance to grab something they might've otherwise missed.

Personally, I can't quite justify grabbing another controller this year since I grabbed the regular versions of the DOOM and Witcher controllers. I don't mind having more than a few usable controllers at once (it's nice to be prepared in case of party games or keeping someone from having to wait while a specific controller charges), but there's a limit.

If I were to crack and relent on a new one, however, it would likely be the Ice Breaker. I love the cool translucent effects, as it reminds me of some of the art direction for 2019's Gears 5 from The Coalition.

If you're going to pick one of these new Breaker controllers up (or you're planning a new Xbox Design Lab controller), let me know, I'm curious what players think.

GameSir has become one of my top companies for getting high-quality and high-value gaming controllers, so much so that I made sure to take some time to visit GameSir's booth during CES 2025.

Since I discovered GameSir, my biggest wish was for the company to make a wireless Xbox controller, and it seemed my desire had been granted; during that CES visit, I went hands-on with an early version of the GameSir G7 Pro.

Teasers appeared to confirm what I had been led to believe — the G7 Pro was wireless across all platforms, including Xbox. Once the controller was actually on the verge of release, though, it was revealed that Xbox players have once again been snubbed (most likely because of Microsoft's weird rules with Xbox Wireless, not necessarily because of GameSir).

My disappointment was immeasurable, but I still wanted to test the G7 Pro. I found that this is easily one of the best controllers you can buy right now, especially if you want to spend less than $100... but you'll still need a wire on Xbox. Fortunately, GameSir told me that could change in the future.

So much value packed into a single controller

When I reviewed the GameSir G7 SE, I was impressed by the value the modest wired controller provided. The G7 Pro takes that foundation and packs in a whole lot more (plus wireless connectivity) without breaking the $100 barrier.

You get a sturdy plastic construction with proper rubberized grips, a removeable faceplate (with a transparent shell underneath) and swappable D-Pad, quad rumble motors, a total of four additional remappable buttons, optical micro-switch face buttons, a charging stand included in the box, and tri-mode connectivity between 2.4GHz wireless (Windows PC), Bluetooth (mobile devices), and wired (Xbox and PC).

The G7 Pro also uses GameSir's more advanced Tunneling Magnetoresistance (TMR) thumbsticks for even greater durability and precision (and a better feel), and uses classic Hall Effect tech for the analog triggers — which themselves have built-in micro-switch trigger stops.

There's even a gyroscope that works with Windows PC, and GameSir's already-great app on Xbox and PC got a major upgrade with new features and options. That's a lot of controller for $80, and the G7 Pro really does feel awesome in the hand.

I won't go so far as to say this controller is perfect. The analog triggers are a little shallow for my tastes. I wish the rear remappable buttons were textured, the thumbsticks aren't swappable, and the D-Pad is mushy, no matter which version you use (there's a total of three D-Pad types included in the box).

I wish the charging stand used magnets to keep the G7 Pro in place while charging, and while there's a very convenient garage for storing the wireless receiver in the stand, I also wish the stand itself could act as the receiver for a more streamlined solution.

Those are minor complaints, though, and the GameSir G7 Pro is flat out better in some ways than our favorite Razer Wolverine V3 Pro (which I helped review). That controller costs more than twice as much, but doesn't include a charging stand, Bluetooth support, or more advanced TMR sticks.

Of course, the Wolverine V3 Pro's controls are higher quality overall, you get swappable thumbsticks and an included carrying case, and — most importantly — you get Xbox Wireless support.

Xbox still needs a wire, but a new version is coming

I've really been enjoying using the GameSir G7 Pro. Honestly, I prefer its ergonomics over the far more premium Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, and its performance is nearly as good across the board.

GameSir knows how to make a great controller, and the G7 Pro is certainly the best it has done so far. I simply can't get over the fact that we've gotten so close to an actual wireless Xbox controller from GameSir, only to fall short right at the finish line.

I'll be going back to the Wolverine V3 Pro after this review, because I have a child and a cat who like to forget there's a wire connected to my Xbox. The GameSir G7 Pro is very nearly the better controller in my eyes (and it costs less than half the price), but I'm holding out for a wireless Xbox version.

I actually asked GameSir why it didn't happen with the G7 Pro, and while I can't share everything I learned, I was told that GameSir is planning to release a new version of the GameSir G7 Pro in the near future that will support Xbox Wireless.

Don't accept this as an official announcement, as details may and often do change as plans develop, but GameSir told me it's targeting around $100 for a special co-branded Xbox edition of the G7 Pro. It's actually happening, but we sadly have to wait a little longer.

GameSir G7 Pro review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a feature-packed, multi-platform wireless controller.
• You don't want to spend more than $100 on a pro-grade controller.
• You mostly game on PC and can also take advantage of Bluetooth.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You want a wireless Xbox controller (just wait a little longer).
• You're really particular about your D-Pads.

I'm eagerly waiting for the GameSir G7 Pro Xbox Edition (or whatever it'll be called), because there's a very good chance it'll be my favorite controller of all time, beating out the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, the Xbox Wireless Controller, and all the rest.

I hope GameSir also takes the opportunity to refine the wireless Xbox-specific G7 Pro in the same way it refined the standard G7 with later versions. If you need ideas, GameSir, I listed some above for you (wink wink).

While I'm adding to the wishlist, I love how the "Shadow Ember" colorway of the G7 Pro looks — GameSir, please make a purple version of that faceplate. Thanks in advance.

Right now, the GameSir G7 Pro really is a fantastic controller, and it's extremely diverse with three ways to connect to your devices. If you do game on Xbox, though, I personally suggest waiting a little longer for the next G7 Pro.

If PC is where you like to hang, the GameSir G7 Pro is an unbeatable deal for $80, and you can check it out for $79.99 at Amazon or $79.99 at Best Buy (pre-orders begin shipping on Jul. 22, so I assume the controller will become more widely available after that).

It's officially Amazon Prime Day, and you all know what that means — endless discounts, most of them garbage and not worthy of your attention.

We're picking through the trash to find the gems, though, including the GameSir G7 SE for $37.99 at Amazon. This is one of the best Xbox controllers for those on a budget, so any discount on top of that is great!

Except... You can actually get the GameSir G7 SE for $35.99 at Walmart, and you don't need an Amazon Prime membership to take advantage of that deal. Seems like an obvious choice.

It's not wireless, but it's still one hell of a controller

• Shop all Prime Day deals at Amazon

I've already mentioned this GameSir G7 SE deal in my round-up of the best tech I've reviewed that's on sale for Amazon Prime Day, but it's also worth giving this controller its own time to shine in the spotlight.

GameSir has quickly grown to be a reputable brand for controllers across all platforms and form factors, and the G7 SE was what sealed my love for the company. I desperately want GameSir to make a wireless Xbox controller (my dream may finally come true in the future), but its wired controllers are some of the best you can buy.

The GameSir G7 SE has a clean, ergonomic design with Hall Effect thumbsticks and triggers, dual remappable rear buttons, convenient chat and microphone controls baked into the D-Pad, and helpful GameSir software available on Xbox and PC.

Performance is excellent, the controls feel responsive and tactile, and there's almost no risk of stick drift developing over time (like is so common with so many controllers, including the standard Xbox Wireless Controller).

It hits all the most important parts of building a great controller, including a long and braided USB Type-C to Type-A cable that securely connects to the G7 SE. That's a lot of value packed into $45, with more than a few reasons to consider the GameSir G7 SE over the Xbox Wireless Controller, even with the cable attached.

I said it all in my GameSir G7 SE review (even if it's a year-and-a-half old now) — this controller is one of the best Xbox accessories. Right now, you can also get it for less than usual.

The best deal on the GameSir G7 SE gets you the controller in white for $35.99 at Walmart, with no membership needed. You can also get the G7 SE in orange or purple for $37.99 at Walmart.

Amazon will demand you have a Prime membership to take advantage of its deal, so the only reason to consider that is if you really want the GameSir G7 SE in blue, which is $37.99 at Amazon.

Whether people are in need of a replacement gamepad or they're just looking to expand their arsenal with a backup or two, one thing is certain: Xbox controllers will always be in high demand with Xbox and PC gamers, and the cheaper you can get one you can rely on, the better. That makes sales events like Prime Day some of the best times to get them — and thanks to an excellent anti-Prime Day deal, you can get the Turtle Beach Recon Xbox controller for just $23.99 at Best Buy.

Even with the controller's limitations taken into account (more on those below), that's still a phenomenal discount that knocks a whopping $36 off the MSRP. And as a result of Turtle Beach's audio expertise that stems from veterancy in headset development, the gamepad comes with some sweet enhancements in that department, too.

• Shop all Amazon Prime Day deals

At this price? A budget gamer's dream

At its regular $60 MSRP, the Turtle Beach Recon Xbox controller is a tougher sell when compared to Microsoft's official (and similarly priced) Xbox controllers. As my colleague Ben Wilson wrote in his review of the controller, some of the button switches are a little clunky, it's incompatible with wireless headsets, and is itself limited to a wired connection, though it does boast some nifty features you won't get with a standard gamepad (more on those in a second).

With a huge 60% off on Amazon Prime Day, though? This controller cements itself as a dream choice for anyone in need of a budget-friendly pickup.

A pair of programmable paddles on the back, rubberized grips, and textured bumpers give the Recon a sprinkle of Xbox Elite Controller-like form and function, while a custom design, gunmetal gray colorway, and the inclusion of the Turtle Beach logo bring some unique flair to the package. By far, though, the highlight of the Recon is its suite of audio features and enhancements that (literally, in this case) "sweeten the deal."

These include buttons for separately adjusting game and voice chat volume, four EQ presets (Signature Sound, Bass Boost, Bass & Treble Boost, and Vocal Boost) you can switch between on the fly, toggleable mic monitoring you can use to hear yourself and avoid shouting, and a special Superhuman Hearing mode that boosts subtle and quiet sounds like enemy footsteps and the telltale clicks and clacks of weapon reloads.

Those audio features are things you rarely, if ever, see included with even the best Xbox controllers priced at the budget-friendly level, and the Superhuman Hearing function in particular is extremely clutch in popular competitive shooters like Valorant, Apex Legends, and other similar titles.

To be clear, this is far from the most advanced controller you can find; more premium offerings like the ones in Microsoft's Xbox Elite Controller lineup or the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro bring a lot more to the package (for a lot more money), and Turtle Beach is facing stiff third-party competition from manufacturers like GameSir and PowerA in the budget space, too.

But while the Turtle Beach Recon Xbox controller is only $23.99 during the Prime Day sales craze, it's hard to argue that anything else on the market is offering more bang for your buck. Sure, the buttons could be better and support for wireless connectivity would be nice, but getting programmable back paddles, a snazzy physical design, and excellent Turtle Beach audio enhancements for well under half of what a standard gamepad costs normally is an absolute steal. Take advantage of it ASAP while Best Buy still has the offer on the table.

Amazon Prime Day has now officially commenced, bringing a slew of massive discounts for your favorite games, electronic devices, and more from July 8, 2025, to July 11, 2025. One of these discounts that has got me all excited to share with you all is this massive 41% discount for the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma controller.

This controller with a Sensitivity Clutch, Hair-Trigger Locks, and high polling rates is my favorite Xbox and PC controller of all time, and it is now for $88.18 on Amazon (out of stock) $88.99 at Walmart (after having its MSRP slashed from $149.99).

• Shop all of the deals at Amazon Prime Day

Why I will always recommend the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma over official controllers.

It's no secret on this website that I love the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma controller. It's one of the best Xbox controllers and PC gaming accessories I've ever had the privilege of owning, and whenever it's on sale, I will shout to the high heavens that it's awesome and that people should go get one for themselves.

Even my colleague, Jez Corden, thinks that the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma is amazing when he gave it a 4/5 star review, stating that it's good that "it felt like cheating".

So what makes this controller, produced by the famed third-party gaming manufacturer Razer, so good? Well, first and foremost, it's comfy to hold. Thanks to its textured rubberized grips, fulfilling weight, and well-rounded handles, you will be able to hold and use this controller for hours on end without straining your hands.

Next up is that the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma is equipped with a plethora of face buttons, backpedals, and extra shoulder buttons, which can be reprogrammed to suit a player's playstyle and be saved in various profile settings for different games.

The buttons are also super responsive with little to no input delay thanks to the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma's polling rate of 250Hz and 4ms average input. This means that this controller has twice the polling rate of a regular Xbox Series X|S controller, and its average input rate is 2.8m faster.

With this, you will be able to form highly complicated attacks and evasive maneuvers without fear of input lag in action-heavy titles like Elden Ring, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Monster Hunter, or Street Fighter 6.

The Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma's advanced features don't stop, as this controller includes a Sensitivity Clutch and Hair-Trigger Locks. Hair-Trigger Locks lock your triggers to a certain point, reducing the travel time it takes to read your inputs so you can rapid-fire shots.

The Sensitivity Clutch performs a similar function, as it reduces the travel time it takes for the analog sticks to register the player's inputs.

When you effectively use the Sensitivity Clutch and Hair-Trigger locks together, you will be sniping headshots more consistently and perform more precise evasive maneuvers to get the drop on opponents in first-person shooters like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Overwatch 2, Stalker 2, and Doom: The Dark Ages.

That being said, it isn't entirely without drawbacks. For one, the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma is a wired-only controller. So if you want a wireless controller with all of the Razer Wolverine 2 Chroma's advanced features without dealing with cable management, you're better off grabbing its more expensive successor, the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro.

Additionally, the Razer Wolverine 2 Chroma has a huge MSRP of $149.99, which can be a bitter pill for most people's wallets to swallow. However, that issue has temporarily been mitigated by a 41% discount thanks to Amazon Prime Day.

For a limited time, you can get your hands on this fantastic controller, which I consider to be superior to Microsoft's official Xbox controller, for a reduced price tag of $88.18 on Amazon (out of stock) $88.99 at Walmart, and save over $60.

With this, you will have plenty of money left to buy upcoming Xbox titles like Gears of Reloaded and Helldivers 2, and grab yourself an Amazon Prime Membership to gain access to more lucrative deals and same-day shipping, among many other benefits when shopping at Amazon.

As Windows Central's primary reviewer right now, I have a lot of products come and go through my office. Some of it excites me, some of it bores me, but I put every product through the same level of testing so I can tell you if you should consider it or save your money for something better.

We're just over halfway through 2025 now, and at the time of publication, I've reviewed a grand total of 58 laptops, monitors, accessories, games, and other tech products for Windows Central — averaging over two a week.

So, let's get a little retrospective and look back at my 10 favorite reviewed products in 2025 so far, ranging from a tiny webcam to a beefy gaming laptop.

10. Razer Blade 14 (2025)

The first appearance from Razer on this list is the redesigned Razer Blade 14 (2025), the company's best-selling laptop, made thinner, lighter, smarter, and more powerful than ever before.

While I've been a big fan of many of Razer's accessories for years, I haven't been enthusiastic about its prohibitively expensive and extremely niche gaming laptops, but 2025 has turned my opinions around dramatically.

In my Razer Blade 14 (2025) review, I wrote:

"Following the trail blazed by its 16-inch sibling, the Razer Blade 14 is entering 2025 with a fresh new design, more power, and a whole lot of AI features. It's Razer's best-selling machine made better than ever, even though most people don't really need this class of device. I also suggest opting for the silver colorway if you dislike dealing with constant fingerprint marks and smudges."

Yes, I still maintain that the majority don't need to spend their money on the Razer Blade 14, but those that do will be met with one of the finest and most powerful 14-inch laptops ever made... At least until I finish reviewing the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 (2025), which has a good chance of surpassing the Blade 14 if my hands-on is anything to go by.

9. Dell UltraSharp 27 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor (U2725QE)

By far the most surprising addition to this list was a monitor I never expected to fall in love with so quickly, and that's the Dell UltraSharp 27 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor (U2725QE)... Yeah, I'm not eager to spell out that name again.

At first glance, this is one of countless and generic productivity monitors that every major brand spits out for enterprises, but the U2725QE is anything but generic. It's special enough that I didn't even wait to finish my full review before writing about how much I valued its headlining feature.

When I did publish my full Dell UltraSharp 27 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor (U2725QE) review, I concluded:

"One of the newest additions to the massive Dell UltraSharp family doesn't check every box a high-end monitor can have, but does pair an excellent productivity-focused IPS LCD display with a full-featured Thunderbolt 4 USB hub that you won't want to give up once you have it. There's room to want more and Dell's "new and improved" software doesn't feel very improved, but it's still difficult to find a true note-for-note alternative to this display."

Dell made an invaluable productivity tool to tie together your entire setup with this monitor, and since my review has noticeably improved its software to be cleaner, more intuitive, and more reliable. To make a long story short, though, monitors are simply better with Thunderbolt built in.

8. ASUS Zenbook A14 (2025)

With 4/5 stars, the ASUS Zenbook A14 (2025) is the lowest-scoring product on this list, but don't mistake that for being the worst. This is a phenomenal mid-range Windows laptop, and one of the best AI PCs any casual user can buy right now.

Weighing less than a single kilogram (just over two pounds) and boasting some of the best battery life of any 14-inch laptop, the cleverly named Zenbook A14 (because ASUS didn't want to risk using "Air" for risk of annoying a certain fruit-based company) was only meaningfully docked because ASUS announced it with a $100 lower starting price than what we got.

In my full ASUS Zenbook A14 (2025) review, I said:

"With a magnesium chassis as light as air and as tough as stone, Snapdragon X series chipsets that barely sip on the physics-defying massive battery, and a great balance of practical function and aesthetic form, the Zenbook A14 is one of the best laptops of the year. It could've been even better with its anticipated $900 entry-level configuration, but a $100 price bump just prevents this laptop from also being one of the best deals for a thin and light AI PC."

I (and our Editor-in-Chief, Daniel Rubino) still absolutely adore this laptop, and since its release, the Zenbook A14 has enjoyed some very healthy discounts. I've seen it go for as low as $650, which is a genuinely incredible deal for one of our favorite Copilot+ PCs of the year.

7. OBSBOT Tiny SE

Not everyone needs a webcam, and many of those who do aren't concerned with the quality. I do (on both counts), and over a year and a half, my favorite webcam has been the OBSBOT Tiny 2, which I reviewed.

That webcam costs $300, though, which is far more than most are willing to spend on a webcam. Thankfully, OBSBOT dropped a new webcam in the Tiny SE, an AI-powered, FHD webcam with full gimbal tracking and a complete set of features. The best part? It only costs $100.

In my OBSBOT Tiny SE review, I concluded:

"The OBSBOT Tiny SE is easily one of the best-value webcams you can buy right now, thanks to its excellent 1080p image quality, reliable low-light performance, and useful AI-powered gimbal tracking. You can see where the corners were cut compared to my favorite OBSBOT Tiny 2, but this webcam also costs a third as much for a lot of the same features."

This is the webcam for $100 or less, and I honestly can't think of another that I wholeheartedly recommend in this price range. The Tiny SE is a fantastic value and is perfect for those who need a reliable webcam but don't want to break the bank.

6. Razer Kishi V3 Pro

The next two actually go hand-in-hand, both because I happened to review them around the same time and because they make each other better. Not that they need the help, with the Razer Kishi V3 Pro easily becoming the best mobile gaming controller you can buy right now.

There are a lot of great options from companies like GameSir and Backbone, but Razer took everything it had learned from previous controllers and made a responsive, durable, comfortable, premium, and feature-packed controller compatible with countless smartphones and tablets.

In my Razer Kishi V3 Pro review, I wrote:

"The Razer Kishi V3 Pro takes everything great about Razer's excellent Kishi Ultra and adds more buttons and features and plenty of other enhancements. It's truly the ultimate mobile gaming controller, as long as you don't mind the size. There's even an XL version that works with up to 13-inch tablets. This is now one of my favorite ways to play."

Full sized TMR thumbsticks (the more advanced version of Hall Effect), multiple additional remappable buttons, the Razer Nexus launcher with PC Remote Play, audio-to-haptics, and Razer's virtual control emulator, the Kishi V3 Pro has it all — and the next on the list may be the best device to pair with it.

5. Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3)

Recently, I wrote about how my go-to gaming handheld right now isn't my Nintendo Switch OLED or my ASUS ROG Ally X, and I was talking about this tablet. Well, this tablet and the previous entry, to be more precise.

Lenovo's debut on this list is something unique for myself and Windows Central, in that it's an Android tablet. I decided to review it with Xbox Cloud Gaming and Microsoft's other mobile gaming investments in mind, and I ended up discovering my favorite companion device.

In my in-depth Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3) review, I said:

"The Lenovo Legion Tab is a small, Android-powered tablet designed with mobile gaming in mind, but it's a fantastic tablet companion all around. With a sleek and premium design, a fast and responsive display, and powerful internals with a large battery, the Legion Tab isn't just the best iPad Mini alternative — I flat out like it more."

Yes, the Legion Tab is brilliant for gaming on various levels, especially when paired with an equally great mobile gaming controller, but it's also the best option for those in the market for a miniature tablet that can keep up with their daily lives.

4. Alienware 27 4K QD-OLED Gaming Monitor (AW2725Q)

OLED has gotten incredibly good in the last few years, especially with gaming monitors and laptops. Faster, smoother, and more reliable, OLED has been the go-to choice for gamers looking for the premium way to play.

As such, I've reviewed a lot of the best OLED gaming monitors, but few have been as easy to recommend as the Alienware AW2725Q, which pairs a 4K resolution, 240Hz refresh rate, a competitive 3-year warranty, and a sub-$1,000 price tag.

In my Alienware 27 4K QD-OLED Gaming Monitor (AW2725Q) review, I said:

"Alienware has taken the latest and greatest OLED tech and shoved it into a compact 27-inch gaming monitor, and it looks and feels every bit the premium product it's supposed to be. You won't enjoy a wealth of extra features, but that barebones approach allows for a lower price tag than many of the AW2725Q's direct competitors."

This is a very focused monitor for those who know they want industry-leading image quality and performance, and don't need the extraneous features that make other monitors more expensive. I still prefer a larger 32-inch display, but the AW2725Q is well worth the cost (especially when it's on sale, which is often).

3. Audeze MM-100

In the hi-fi audio world, Audeze is well-known as the leader of planar magnetic technology, a wildly different approach to your average headphones. Most of those headphones cost many hundreds or even thousands of dollars, though, immediately pricing them out of most people's range.

The MM-100 is Audeze's attempt to bring its signature sound to a more accessible price point, one that a more casual audiophile can invest in to get their foot through the door of true high-end music. These cans aren't perfect, but you won't find a better set of planar magnetic headphones for anywhere near this price.

In my Audeze MM-100 review, I stated:

"The Audeze MM-100 is the latest attempt by the legendary audio company to break into more mainstream spaces, trickling its planar magnetic headphone technology down to a fraction of the cost of its most popular high-end headphones. The pricing is great, the audio quality is phenomenal, and it's accessible to audiophiles of all knowledge levels. As long as you know what you're getting and can accept the minor compromises, you're not likely to find better at this price point."

The Audeze MM-100 will work with basically any device with a 3.5mm headphone jack, but your listening experience will scale with your hardware (especially if you invest in a proper DAC).

2. Lenovo Legion Pro 7i (Gen 10)

Remember when Lenovo first properly entered the gaming scene with its Legion brand? Because it... wasn't great. Fast forward a few years, though, and Lenovo Legion has quickly become one of the most reliable and popular brands for gaming hardware.

Lenovo's second appearance on this list is the flagship Legion Pro 7i (Gen 10), a 16-inch gaming laptop with all the power you could possibly desire. A new generation of Intel and NVIDIA hardware lined up with Lenovo's full redesign, and it's a fabulous machine on so many levels.

In my (very detailed) Lenovo Legion Pro 7i (Gen 10) review, I said:

"The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i no longer feels like the 'flagship killer' deal it was in years prior, but the latest model ushers in a new generation of Intel and NVIDIA hardware with a great redesign, a wonderful OLED display, and some of the best performance you'll find on any mobile machine. This is one of the best gaming laptops we're going to see this year. It is a shame we lost the rear-facing ports, though."

The new Legion Pro 7i is undeniably a premium machine, but it's also one of the best performers on the market (and frankly still undercuts options from companies like Razer by a substantial margin). It's almost peak gaming laptop... I just wish we hadn't lost the rear ports.

1. XREAL One Pro

If you're surprised to see a pair of AR glasses at the top of this list of my favorite reviewed products of 2025, you're not alone — I'm right there with you. XREAL truly earned its place here with the One Pro, though, which in many ways is the pinnacle of this tech category.

Even our own Jez Corden recently argued that XREAL would've been a better partner for Xbox than Meta's Quest headsets, and I agree. The flagship XREAL One Pro is a proper showcase of what modern technology can accomplish, giving you a massive, beautiful, and fully private theater for all your devices, wherever you happen to be.

In my XREAL One Pro review, I stated:

"With the One Pro, XREAL has firmly established itself as the leading innovating force in the AR glasses category, with class-leading advancements making this wearable tech genuinely worthwhile to the average consumer. The design, displays, and feature set are all top-notch, providing an excellent, private theater for working, gaming, and watching, but the XREAL One Pro AR glasses are prohibitively expensive, and you do lose something when transitioning to this more standalone design."

Don't get me wrong, the XREAL One Pro are an expensive investment, but you don't have to go this far. The standard XREAL One AR glasses still provide a ton of value for anyone who loves to game, watch, or even work on the go, in bed, or anywhere that isn't in front of a TV or monitor.

On a few occasions, I'd walk into my living room and see my fiancée playing PC games with an Xbox controller in her left hand and a mouse in her right. Sure, it kind of worked, but gripping half a joypad just for a joystick and D-pad was hardly the best solution for her to play some World of Warcraft.

Some games handled it better than others, and some outright struggled with conflicts of controller inputs alongside a mouse, constantly switching between UI icons for each.

There must be a better way, but it'll probably cost a stack of cash, right? Well, maybe not. We're used to accessible controllers with price tags close to $100, but Microsoft seemed to have the perfect solution for only $30, so I bought it. Here's my review of the Xbox Adaptive Joystick.

The Xbox Adaptive Joystick is sold exclusively through the Microsoft Store for $29.99 in the United States and £24.99 in the United Kingdom. Shipping is free, and Microsoft offers "hassle-free returns" if you have any issues with the order. If you own a 3D printer, you can download free blueprints for adaptive thumbstick toppers, which attach to the analog stick for expanded accessibility.

It works as a standalone device on Xbox consoles and Windows PCs, but you can unlock even more accessible functionality if you pair it with the $99.99 Xbox Adaptive Controller. Alternatively, the Xbox Adaptive Joystick can connect to a standard Xbox wireless controller from Amazon or any other trusted retailer. We didn't necessarily need either, so my experience comes exclusively from my fiancée using it alongside a standard PC mouse.

So, why did I buy it?

My fiancée lives with a connective tissue disorder known as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), specifically a hypermobile type, which affects her joint strength and otherwise causes chronic pain (hEDS).

Because of this condition, most gaming experiences throughout her life were relegated to consoles, including various generations of Xbox, with controllers that proved more comfortable to use than a mouse and keyboard. It's not that she isn't able to use the latter, but pushing down on the W-A-S-D keys for movement tends to overextend her finger joints, so it's hardly worth the pain.

A traditional Xbox controller (Dream Vapor, her favorite color) sufficed for most games that support joypads, and even Valve's Steam Input system helped force compatibility on some that don't. However, it never felt quite as satisfying for PC titles that perform better with a mouse, particularly when she discovered the UI-laden World of Warcraft.

I had considered jury-rigging some similar-looking controllers from other consoles with community-made Windows 11 drivers, allowing her to still use a mouse in her right hand, but frustrations with Bluetooth and other software hiccups soon retired that notion. Now, Xbox claims to have a better option, but how does it fare in real-world testing?

The Xbox Adaptive Controller is as simple as it looks. It's a mix of an analog stick above a collection of four separate face buttons marked x1 to x4 (similar to A, B, X, Y) instead of a merged D-pad that you might expect. Around the back are two digital shoulder buttons marked x5 and x6, essentially giving you two bumpers but no pressure-sensitive analog triggers.

That means no fine control over acceleration or braking in driving games, and you can't assign any other in-game mechanics that work best with a gradual press. On the other hand, you still have the analog stick for fine inputs if you aren't using it for movement, and the whole point of accessible controllers is to have them function in any way that makes the experience easier for the user.

It isn't wireless, but Microsoft includes a braided, 9-foot cable with a USB-C connector alongside a 1/4 - 20” screw thread for various mounts on the Xbox Adaptive Joystick and a full-size USB-A on the other to connect with a PC, laptop, or Xbox console. Naturally, your usage will vary, but it's long enough to reach across our living room with some slack to spare. The rugged sleeving certainly inspires confidence in its longevity, but it's only seen a month of use so far.

Setup is straightforward, too. In fact, you can use it without ever installing the Xbox Accessories App that Microsoft recommends. By default, the Xbox Adaptive Joystick binds the analog stick to traditional right-analog movements, usually handling aiming or camera control, while pushing in the stick replicates a left-analog stick push. Otherwise, the x1 to x4 buttons are detected as A-B-X-Y while the rear x5 and x6 trigger buttons signal as LB and LT, respectively.

Of course, you can change these inputs to anything you would prefer by creating a new button profile in the Xbox Accessories App, and enter a test mode to confirm the Xbox Adaptive Joystick is responding with what you expect. Still, while you can skip the app altogether, I recommend using it to at least update the joystick's firmware before you start playing. Once you're happy, you could essentially close the app and never need to open it again.

The appeal is its versatility. You can set any of the buttons as a "shift" modifier, which changes how other buttons work. For example, if you set the rear x5 button up as a shift modifier, it could change how x1 to x4 work in games. So, while it technically has 7 physically detected buttons, the Xbox Adaptive Joystick can act as far more than that with a little extra effort in its setup.

To make a long story short, my fiancée is able to play a wealth of PC games that used to feel uncomfortable for extended periods when she used a keyboard and mouse.

If we run into issues with conflicting UI icons as games switch from detecting a controller to a mouse, we switch to Steam Input and fully emulate keyboard presses anyway — the game doesn't know any different, but the experience is smoother.

With the Xbox Adaptive Joystick in her left hand, bound to a variety of keys with and without the shift modifier, she has her right hand free for precise aiming with a mouse. This adaptive setup has allowed her to join a massive group of friends in complex World of Warcraft raids without feeling like she's restricted by a limited number of inputs.

Other, more cozy games still feel better with the analog stick over WASD keys, so it's an across-the-board improvement. It really has changed her life more than any of the best Xbox controllers did, and it only cost us $30. Sure, I'd love to see an analog trigger for fine inputs, but it's a small con weighed against a gigantic list of pros that doesn't detract from its score. Kudos to Xbox.

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The Backbone Pro is here, and it's quite a monster.

As far as mobile gaming controllers go, Razer has generally led this pack since the form factor's inception. There's one company that has always been keeping pace with Razer, though, and that company is Backbone.

Every time Razer or Backbone releases a new controller, one tends to up the ante. I recently reviewed the Razer Kishi Ultra, and found it to be quite the legendary offering. One big downside, though, was the lack of Bluetooth for some added wireless versatility. Enter the Backbone Pro.

The Backbone Pro is well and truly a "do everything" offering from the firm, complete with a larger ergonomic profile, 40 hours of Bluetooth gameplay, and USB-C connectivity for minimal latency. But boy howdy, it ain't cheap. Regardless, I think it quite easily makes the list for best Xbox cloud gaming controllers, but you'll need to decide for yourself if you need something this pricey.

Backbone Pro spec breakdown

The Backbone Pro is a comfort powerhouse

The Backbone One and previous iterations of this controller were designed with maximum portability in mind, which I think limited their comfortability for average sized adult hands. Despite this, Backbone was always a frontrunner in this area, building some of the highest-quality options that were also among the most balanced and ergonomic. The Backbone Pro extends this trend.

The Backbone Pro is incredibly comfortable, with larger grips, laser-etched texturing, and very subtly curved triggers. It's simply a gorgeous device, and a harmony of thoughtful engineering and human-focused product design. It's right up there with Microsoft's Xbox controllers for comfort, which is not praise I'm always eager to dish out.

One thing I also really like about the device is how quiet it is, which again shows great attention to detail. If you are gaming in public, the last thing you want to be doing is clicking away annoying everyone — the soft actuation here is a welcome benefit.

The Backbone Pro features a USB-C connector as well as Bluetooth connectivity, making it a good option for both wired and wireless play. When plugged into your phone directly, you shave off a few milliseconds of latency, which can be a noticeable benefit for Xbox Cloud and NVIDIA GFN gaming.

The USB-C connector doesn't pivot, sadly (due to patents held by other companies, I'd wager), but it does have magnetic inserts that can help phones of all shapes and sizes fit more comfortably within the housing. I've found that the Backbone Pro can support even small tablets, even though it's listed primarily as supporting USB-C phones.

It sports pass-through USB-C charging, configurable back buttons, 3.5mm audio, and a dedicated button for launching the Backbone+ app service. We need to talk a little bit more about that last point, though.

But boy oh boy, it ain't cheap

The Backbone Pro is a staggering $170 on Best Buy as of writing. That makes it more expensive than the Razer Kishi Ultra, and more expensive than the average price of the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2. It's also even more expensive in the UK and EU, reaching up to $200 in equivalent currency. That's a little absurd in my view.

What's even more annoying is that features I would consider fairly basic, like direct access to Xbox Cloud Gaming via Xbox Game Pass, and NVIDIA GeForce Now, is only available via a monthly subscription to Backbone+. The app with the Backbone is, again, arguably the best app experience for a device like this that I've used. But I'm not sure I would want to "subscribe" to what is essentially a launcher for another launcher. I think Backbone is trying to have its cake and eat it a bit with that one.

For all its luster and quality, you're going to really, really want the true "premium" experience to justify dropping that kind of money here. Unless you have cash to burn, in which case there's probably not a better experience on the market right now.

With respect to Backbone, it's clear a lot of meticulous engineering love went into this device. It has quite arguably the most "premium" feel of any of the higher-end mobile controllers I've used, with Xbox-level quality buttons, grips, triggers, and joysticks. However, the sticks aren't Hall Effect, which means they could become susceptible to drift over time, just like the Xbox Elite Controller.

However, it does come with Bluetooth support, unlike the Razer Kishi Ultra. I would argue it's also more portable than the Razer Kishi Ultra, which is essentially a full-sized Razer Wolverine V3 cut in half.

There's so much about this controller to love, but I would argue that price ain't one of them.

The Backbone Pro is absolutely for people who want the best of the best

The Backbone Pro is a fantastic mobile controller, and quite easily arguably the best. But "the best" comes at a price, in this case, a very high price.

If the Backbone Pro had been a bit more generous with its app and pricing, I could've easily seen myself giving this top marks, but it's just so difficult to recommend when there are so many alternative options that are also very decent, while also being far, far cheaper. Small companies are stretched, and tariffs are impacting businesses of all shapes and sizes, but they're also impacting consumers too. It's tough to recommend a controller for $180 that you might be only using occasionally.

However, if you are a very heavy mobile gamer, be it natively so or via cloud gaming services, this might be the "Xbox Elite"-style option you've always wanted.

The mobile gaming landscape has evolved by leaps and bounds the last few years, and mobile controllers are just one part of it.

Cloud gaming, full ports of native PC and console games, emulation — gaming on your phone or tablet has never been better. The brand-new Razer Kishi V3 Pro is for those who want to get the most out of that experience, and it's truly the ultimate mobile gaming controller.

I've been using this accessory with the Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3) I reviewed for a few weeks now, and it's clear Razer is serious about competing in this space. When it comes to ergonomics, performance, and features, the Kishi V3 Pro is one of the best you can buy.

It helps that there's a more affordable non-Pro version with many of the same benefits, and a new XL version for those who want to game on their full-sized iPad or Android tablet.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Razer. Razer had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Kishi V3 Pro review: Cheat sheet

• What is it? A premium mobile gaming controller for iOS and Android smartphones and tablets.
• Who is it for? Those who want the absolute best mobile gaming experience with a full-sized controller.
• How much does it cost? The Razer Kishi V3 Pro is available for $149.99 at Razer. The Kishi V3 Pro XL for large tablets is $199.99 at Razer.
• What did I like? The excellent full-sized, ergonomic design, the reliable and responsive controls, the awesome Razer Nexus app.
• What did I not like? The large size, the regular Kishi V3 offering so much of the same experience for less.

Kishi V3 Pro review: Pricing and specifications

I'm reviewing the Razer Kishi V3 Pro, but there are actually three separate mobile controllers in this family.

The entry-level Kishi V3 retains the same design and controls, but loses features like the Sensa HD haptics, extra bumper buttons, and swappable thumbsticks. The Razer Kishi V3 retails for $99.99 at Razer, and is compatible with the same devices as the Kishi V3 Pro.

The Razer Kishi V3 Pro retails for $149.99 at Razer, and is the best option for those who want the ultimate mobile gaming experience with their smartphone or small tablet.

Finally, there's the Kishi V3 Pro XL, which is identical to the non-XL variant feature-wise, but is upscaled to support 10 to 13-inch iPad and Android tablets. The Razer Kishi V3 Pro XL retails for $199.99 at Razer.

In the box, you'll find the Razer Kishi V3 Pro mobile gaming controller, two sets of rubber bumpers for adjusting the controller to your device size, and two swappable thumbsticks (one tall concave and one short convex).

For those with iPhones and iPads, the Kishi V3 Pro also comes with 3 months of Apple Arcade, while the Kishi V3 Pro XL comes with 6 months. That particular perk doesn't apply to me, but you might find it valuable.

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Kishi V3 Pro review: What I like

In our Razer Kishi Ultra review, our own Jez Corden described it as an "opulent mobile gaming controller with a premium price tag." The Kishi V3 line is built on that same foundation, but Razer smartly expanded into budget and niche categories.

On the surface, the Kishi V3 Pro is nearly identical to the Kishi Ultra, and that means effectively splitting the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro we reviewed (and hailed as one of the best Xbox controllers ever) in two and giving you space to slot your phone or tablet.

Of course, that same design applies to all Kishi V3 controllers — full-sized grips, thumbsticks, and triggers that provide a true console-like experience wherever you happen to be gaming. In terms of ergonomics, the Kishi V3 Pro is leagues ahead of the average mobile controller.

That mentality extends to performance, as well; in fact, the Kishi V3 line is even more advanced than the premium Wolverine V3 Pro in some ways. On top of the mecha-tactile buttons (Razer's unique blend of mechanical and tactile switches) and remappable rear buttons using Razer's class-leading mouse switches, you also get Hall Effect triggers and cutting-edge Tunneling Magnetoresistance (TMR) thumbsticks.

What does that mean? Best-in-class precision, responsiveness, and reliability. The Kishi V3 line's Hall Effect triggers are fully customizable, and the TMR thumbsticks are essentially immune to dread stick drift.

The original Razer Kishi V2 we reviewed had its merits, but ultimately felt confined to a box: a controller designed for phones. By comparison, the Kishi V3 Pro and its siblings offers a genuinely brilliant gaming experience, to the point that being able to plug it into a PC and use it like a normal controller makes complete sense.

The Kishi V3 Pro is incredibly comfortable to hold, and the tactility and consistency of each button is excellent. The addition of four additional, remappable buttons (or two for the regular Kishi V3) only adds to the experience. I genuinely believe there's no other mobile controller that can fully compare.

If you're wondering what the extra $50 nets you when upgrading from the regular Razer Kishi V3 to the Kishi V3 Pro, it basically comes down to: two extra buttons (the "claw grip" bumper buttons) and the surprisingly good Razer Sensa HD haptics (which can even automatically convert audio to haptics).

The secret killer feature of the Razer Kishi V3 Pro and its siblings, though, has nothing to do with hardware. Yeah, the Razer Nexus app has really come a long way.

Razer Nexus is a free iOS/iPadOS and Android app that anyone can install to streamline their mobile gaming experience, and that ostensibly plays nice with any mobile controller, but unsurprisingly only reaches its full potential when paired with a Razer Kishi.

In some ways, Razer Nexus is still a basic app, but it's filled with features that make mobile controllers like the Kishi V3 Pro even better. It's a launcher to quickly access all your favorite games and services, sure, but it also lets you enable the audio-to-haptics feature for everything you want to play, remap your controls, and more.

More includes features like the Virtual Controller Mode and PC Remote Play. The former lets you map any physical Kishi control to the touch-only controls of any game — and it's by far the best implementation I've seen of such a feature, making games that don't normally play nice with mobile controllers (like Call of Duty Mobile and Pokémon Unite) feel completely natural with the Kishi V3 Pro.

The latter is a more recent addition, and lets you use the power of your gaming PC to stream any game to your mobile device. Razer's version of this feature can optimize your PC games for your device's screen, though, and it's shockingly good with the Kishi controllers.

The Razer Kishi V3 Pro is excellent, and the (completely free, subscription-less) Nexus app makes it even better.

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Kishi V3 Pro review: What I don't like

I'll avoid any misunderstandings and state first and foremost: I firmly believe the Razer Kishi V3 Pro (and its siblings) is the best mobile gaming controller you can buy right now. Of course... that doesn't mean it's perfect.

Most obviously, the Kishi V3 Pro's greatest strength is also a compromise. All the ergonomics and features of a full-sized controller also makes the Kishi V3 Pro undeniably large — and that makes it a poor choice for those who want a mobile controller they can truly carry with them everywhere.

The Kishi V3 Pro also isn't a complete upgrade over the Kishi Ultra; for some reason, Razer removed the RGB lighting strips. Most people won't care, but I can't review this controller without mentioning that.

If you want an actual criticism, the Kishi V3 Pro is prone to the same issue as the Kishi Ultra, in that it occasionally doesn't want to reconnect after an extended standby time. It's a minor complaint reserved for users like myself, who has a dedicated device just for mobile gaming, but it's worth mentioning.

Finally, and specific to the Kishi V3 Pro... most people don't need the two additional buttons and dedicated haptics that separate the Kishi V3 Pro from the more affordable Kishi V3.

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Kishi V3 Pro review: Also consider

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Kishi V3 Pro review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a true console-like controller experience on mobile.
• You want a reliable controller that'll survive years of gaming.
• You find value in the Razer Nexus app and its added features.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You want something as compact as possible for travel.
• You definitely don't want to spend $100+ on a mobile controller.

I've been using the Razer Kishi V3 Pro with the Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3), an 8.8-inch Android tablet designed with gaming in mind. The experience has been phenomenal, and I've found myself picking up this combination more often than even my ASUS ROG Ally X.

The simple fact is that mobile gaming does offer some distinct advantages in versatility and efficiency, and the Kishi V3 Pro absolves many of the compromises in ergonomics and controller performance.

To summarize in a different fashion, the Kishi V3 line of mobile controllers brings out the very best of gaming from your phone or tablet, whether you're playing a native title, streaming from the cloud or your PC, or emulating classic consoles.

The Razer Kishi V3 Pro is available now for $149.99 at Razer, and it's clearly the monarch of the family — while I haven't personally used it, though, the Kishi V3 (at $99.99 at Razer) does seem like the obvious choice for many people, given its tasteful compromises.

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Gaming doesn't have to be expensive, or at least picking up a controller doesn't have to be. As tech prices go up, deals become even more important. Right now, you can save 10% on the GameSir Super Nova, which brings the price down to $44.99. That's not quite the lowest price ever for the gamepad, but it's close.

While it is admittedly a small discount in terms of dollars saved, the deal provides an opportunity to highlight an excellent controller. The GameSir Super Nova always punches above its weight class when it comes to price, but that's especially true given the current deal.

Is this the best budget gaming controller?

Long gaming sessions with the GameSir Super Nova are comfortable, thanks to the ergonomics and rubberized grips of the controller. The gamepad feels excellent in the hand and has a slight texture to it to prevent its body from getting slippery from sweat.

The Hall Effect triggers and sticks are the star of the show for the GameSir Super Nova. While Hall Effect technology is becoming more common these days, the GameSir Super Nova is one of the most affordable controllers that use it.

Thanks to those Hall Effect components, the controller is responsive and should not develop stick drift. Having dealt with some stick drift over the years, it was quite a relief to use a gamepad where that issue is not a concern.

The Xbox-inspired design of the GameSir Super Nova will feel familiar to many PC gamers and those who have migrated over from an Xbox console. While the button layout and general shape of the GameSir Super Nova is similar to that of an Xbox controller, the GameSir Super Nova is not compatible with Xbox.

It is, however, an excellent controller for PC gaming and mobile gaming. It also works with the Nintendo Switch. You can connect the accessory through Bluetooth or with a 2.4GHz dongle.

I reviewed the GameSir Super Nova this year with a unit the company sent my way for testing. The gamepad has held up well in that time and has now dropped in price. The charging dock of the GameSir Super Nova sits on my desk, often glowing with its RGB lighting that matches the lights of the controller.

ALSO READ: This controller transformed a $1 million streaming setup

My only complaint about the GameSir Super Nova was not about the controller itself. Instead, it was GameSir Connect that let me down. That piece of software had some connection issues, but once I got it working, it allowed me to customize the controller. I had to connect it via a wire initially to set up the app.

If you use a controller to play games on your PC or need a gamepad for mobile gaming or the Nintendo Switch, the GameSir Super Nova is an excellent option. It's more affordable than many alternatives, despite offering more features than most controllers in this price range.

If you're on the hunt for premium, alternative third-party controllers for Xbox or PC, then Razer has you covered with the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma. This phenomenal wired controller will serve you well for many years to come, thanks to its precise controls, sturdy build, and advanced features.

The Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma normally sells for a lofty MSRP of $149.99 at most retailers. However, Walmart is hosting a gigantic sale that has taken this controller's price down to $89.00 at Walmart.com, making it more affordable and saving gamers $60 in the process.

What makes the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma worth it over an official Xbox controller?

When it comes to Xbox controllers, most people refer to Microsoft's official Xbox controller and its Elite Series 2 counterpart as the best Xbox controllers out there.

However, my money is on Razer's Wolverine V2 Chroma controller as it features superior controls and ergonomics to both the regular Xbox and Elite Series 2 Xbox controllers.

How are its controls superior, you may ask? Well, the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma's buttons have a polling rate of 250Hz and an average input of under 4ms. This controller has twice the polling of a standard Xbox Series X|S controller, and an input rate that's 2.8ms quicker.

Essentially, this allows the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma to detect your inputs instantly, with laser-precise accuracy and near non-existent input lag. This, in turn, prevents your character's in-game actions from being delayed, which can make your life much easier in challenging games like Elden Ring or Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.

The Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma also has a couple of advanced features to help players perform better in first-person shooters like Overwatch 2, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, and Doom: The Dark Ages.

These come in the form of hair-trigger locks and a Sensitivity Clutch. The Sensitivity Clutch is a unique feature that reduces the travel time for the analog stick to detect a player's input, allowing them to aim better or move with more precise, delicate steps.

Hair-trigger locks, on the other hand, reduce the travel time it takes for the left and right triggers to register player inputs so they can fire at fast-moving enemies quicker.

In addition, the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma has two extra shoulders and four extra back-pedal buttons, which can be used to create shortcuts for certain in-game actions.

Plus, the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma has a free Razer Controller companion app, which allows players to remap the functions of all the controller's buttons to suit a player's playstyle.

To top it off, the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma has superb ergonomics thanks to its textured rubberized grips and well-rounded handles, so you can use this controller for hours on end without causing strain on your hands.

The Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma also has a couple of cool bonus traits like Windows compatibility for PC gaming, RGB lighting, and interchangeable analog stick toppers for either short or long caps.

So if you're looking for one of the best Xbox controllers out there, that also happens to be one of the best PC accessories, then there's no better time than now to grab one, as its price has gone down massively from $149.99 to $89.00 at Walmart for a limited time.

Controllers, controllers everywhere, but not a drop to drink. Or so the saying goes. Indeed, Xbox controllers are a dime a dozen these days, with solid third-party offerings all up and down the price spectrum.

For better or worse, the apex of Xbox controller goodness is often considered the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2, despite its very well-documented quality issues.

Without fail, after six months, your right bumper will die on an Xbox Elite Controller, and while it can be repaired, it's a headache to deal with for a $200 product.

What if there were an alternative that might not break?

Nacon has entered the arena with its own take on the "Xbox Elite" range, with a licensed offering complete with the official Xbox sticker.

This controller boasts many of the Xbox Elite features we know and love, complete with charging dock, interchangeable sticks, back buttons, and trigger locks. It also follows the $199 MSRP.

Is it worth the ask? This past weekend, I spent a good 40 hours trying to figure that out.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Nacon. The company had no input or saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Revolution X Unlimited: Cheat sheet

• What is it? A wireless controller for Xbox and PC gaming.
• Who is it for? Those looking for an alternative to the Xbox Elite Series.
• How much does it cost? $199.99 at MSRP.
• What did I like? Hall-effect sensors and LCD display.
• What did I not like? Shorter battery life than advertised.

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Revolution X Unlimited: Pricing & specifications

As noted, the Nacon Revolution X Unlimited is $199.99 at MSRP, although you can find it a little cheaper at some retailers. Nacon sells it through their own website, as well as across global retailers like Amazon US and Amazon UK.

The feature set is quite impressive, and beats the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 in various ways, but not others.

On paper, it's a solid feature set for the price point, with a lot of add-ons and bells and whistles. I usually snobbishly turn my nose up at things like integrated LCD panels and the like, but found it quite useful and intuitive here for a variety of reasons.

First up, here's what I ultimately liked about the Revolution X Unlimited.

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Revolution X Unlimited: What I like

First, let's talk about the bare-bones basics. I spent around 40 hours over the past week testing this controller with a variety of games, coming in from my very battered Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 with a dying right bumper.

It was a night-and-day difference to finally play on something that actually functions, but beyond that, I was honestly impressed with how comfortable this controller felt.

Increasingly, third-party Xbox controllers are absolutely nailing their inputs. The joysticks, buttons, triggers, and the extra buttons on the Nacon Revolution X Unlimited are all stellar, and leverage Hall Effect activators to reduce wear and tear and drift.

It should theoretically last longer than traditional mechanical actuators found on the standard Xbox offerings, although I won't know for sure on that point without a time machine.

What I do know is that they're extremely comfortable, are well-positioned, have an ergonomic feel, and their positions are easy to commit to muscle memory thanks to their highly tactile design. It also incorporates Xbox's clip and screenshot button, which many third-party controllers omit.

I also found myself pleasantly surprised by the LCD display. Sometimes I think manufacturers are often guilty of overthinking their accessories in order to stand out in a busy crowd, but Nacon's display here is very intuitive and allows for quick and easy customizations on the fly.

A dedicated menu button coupled with the d-pad and ABXY inputs makes navigating the screen incredibly easy, and you can view pairing status, change keybinds, control mic volume, and more without leaving your game.

I'm also quite a fan of the charge dock Nacon put together for this one. I'm a sucker for a good charge dock, as I'm not a fan of cables draping all over the place.

The gold standard Xbox charge dock is the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2's, but Nacon's is no slouch, with solid rubber feet to prevent sliding and a decent weight. Top marks on this one.

Once I was in a game, it was quite easy to forget I was supposed to be reviewing a controller here. It's incredibly comfortable and feels at least on par with, if not better than, Microsoft's own heavily tested options.

Nacon thoroughly and completely nailed the basics with the Revolution X Unlimited, but it's when you get into the weeds that things start to get a bit grating.

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Revolution X Unlimited: What I dislike

Whether it's a combination of the LCD display, the inexplicable single RGB light ring around the right joystick, or a simple oversight — the worst thing about the Nacon Revolution X Unlimited is undoubtedly the battery life.

Listed as 10 hours, I managed to deplete the battery quite easily in 6-7 hours with some hardcore Torment 4 Diablo 4 dungeoneering. Now, I'm sure I could pump that up a bit if I disabled the LCD screen or the RGB light ring, but if I'm going to have to do that to achieve the listed battery life, why did Nacon include them in the first place?

You can opt instead to do your configurations on Nacon's Revolution X Unlimited PC app on the Microsoft Store, but man, I think it might be the slowest accessory update experience of my entire life.

And considering the fact that this product is quite new and likely going to need a lot of updates, it was quite painful to have to wait almost an hour for my controller to fully update via this app.

I'm not sure if Nacon's servers are super slow or if there's just something wrong with the app itself, but prepare yourself for a very slow updating experience if you grab this one.

I'm also not a huge fan of aspects of its visual design. The shell itself is attractive, but Nacon really, really wants you to know it's a Nacon product.

There's not one, not two, but three Nacon logos on the main controller, including the LCD panel, and then another huge "Revolution X Unlimited" haphazardly printed across the charging dock.

It's subjective, but I think it looks gaudy when companies emblazon their branding so hard across their products as if they were manufacturing a t-shirt or something. There's nobody to advertise to in my bedroom, Nacon! Make it look sleek instead!

Speaking of my bedroom, for all the configurability Nacon throws at this product, they joined Razer in the cardinal sin of having a bright and unconfigurable flashing charging light while it's docked.

So, if you're like me and you game in your bedroom and prefer it to be actually dark when you're sleeping, be aware that the Nacon Revolution X Unlimited comes complete with free nighttime disco lighting when you're not using it.

I'm also not a fan of the fact that you need to use two USB ports to get the most out of this on Xbox. The low-latency mode on PC is welcome, but it's a tad annoying that it doesn't support direct Xbox wireless connectivity. If you've already got other accessories connected to your Xbox, be aware of this one.

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Revolution X Unlimited: Also consider

The Nacon Revolution X Unlimited has the Xbox Elite Series Controller 2 firmly beat on inputs, I would say. Hall Effect sticks are grand, and the LCD display and charge dock are also well-designed and easy to use.

The big downside is the battery life, which depletes in 6-7 hours with average use. If you're someone who games across short sessions, this isn't necessarily a big deal, but as someone who often hits 12 hours per play session, it eliminates the Nacon Revolution X Unlimited from my options, potentially.

The similarly priced Razer Wolverine V3 Pro also suffers from a shorter battery life than the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2, which can run a whopping 30 hours on a single charge, but at least it gets a full day on a single charge.

It doesn't have a charge dock, sadly, but you can at least charge it back up without triggering a localized rave in your bedroom. I think the Nacon Revolution X Unlimited is almost there, but some of the details let it down.

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Revolution X Unlimited: Should you buy it?

✅ You should buy this if ...

• You like the design and functionality of the LED screen.
• You want an Elite-style Xbox controller experience with Hall Effect quality.
• You want a controller that you can use on multiple devices easily.

❌ You should not this if ...

• Battery life is a sticking point for you, because the Nacon Revolution X Unlimited is sub-par here.
• You want to set it up in a bedroom, since the LED charging light is a bit like having a personal disco you can't turn off.

Let down by some of the finer details, the Nacon Revolution X Unlimited is a decent controller that might be ideal for living room casual play. It's easy to set up and configure, and is great for 6-7 hour sessions with a comfortable ergonomic feel and a high amount of customizability.

The RGB light ring doesn't add anything to the product, particularly since it's oddly attached to only one joystick. You can't turn it off while charging either, making it unsuitable for those who prefer to actually sleep in the dark. It also takes up two USB ports on your Xbox, while many competing products only take up one.

I think Nacon came very close to joining the ranks of the best Xbox controllers here, but some of the downsides and oversights are something that perhaps can only be repaired in a future iteration. It's overall a very solid Xbox controller, I'm just not sure it's $199 solid.

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The GameSir Super Nova is one of the latest controllers from the Chinese-based accessory manufacturer. GameSir has earned a solid reputation for making quality controllers at more affordable prices than many competitors. That trend continues with the GameSir Super Nova, which punches above its weight thanks to its Hall Effect sticks and sturdy design.

The GameSir Super Nova is compatible with Windows, iOS, and Android. It can also be used as a Nintendo Switch controller. The omission of Xbox support will be a deal breaker for some, but the GameSir Super Nova proved to be an excellent gamepad during my testing.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by GameSir. GameSir had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

GameSir Super Nova controller review: Pricing and specifications

• The GameSir Super Nova costs $49.99 and can be bought at Amazon.
• You can order the controller in blue or pink.
• Swappable faceplates are also available in a variety of colors.

The GameSir Super Nova is an affordable controller at $49.99 through Amazon, especially if you consider its spec sheet. You can order the controller in blue or pink, but there are also different colored swappable faceplates available.

Faceplates are available separately or within bundles that cost $54.99.

The GameSir Super Nova comes with a charging dock. Mine now lives on my desk since the dock is convenient to use. I've also made it so that removing the controller from the dock turns the controller on.

The Hall Effect sticks and triggers are the star of the show for me, but the controller also looks good on a desk. The RGB lighting of the GameSir Super Nova aligns with the lights on the charging dock, which is a nice touch.

You can connect the GameSir Super Nova through Bluetooth, a 2.4Ghz dongle, or through a wired connection. I used the dongle predominantly during my testing.

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GameSir Super Nova controller review: The good

• It offers Hall Effect sticks and triggers at a budget-friendly price.
• Rubberized grips and sturdy construction make it comfortable.
• The included charging dock supports charging and auto start/stop.

The GameSir Super Nova is an impressive controller regardless of its price tag. But when you consider that the device only costs $49.99, it's surprising how much GameSir packed in.

Hall Effect sticks and triggers, two programmable back buttons, and rubberized grips deliver a comfortable and versatile gaming experience that, quite literally, wraps around the entire controller.

The Super Nova is comfortable in hand, looks good on a desk, and is responsive when gaming. It checks a ton of boxes for a controller, and it honestly surpasses what I'd expect from a device in this price range.

• ALSO READ: This $50 controller transformed a $1 million streaming setup

The docking station that's included in the box does not look like much, but it's quite handy. Pins along the back of the controller allow you to charge the GameSir Super Nova without having to fiddle with any cables.

Between racing games, RPGs, and titles from other genres, the GameSir Super Nova performed well. The grippy texture made it easy to use the controller for long play sessions without dealing with sweaty hands.

While you can use the GameSir Super Nova with any button setup you'd like, its shape is very similar to that of an Xbox controller, so that button layout will likely feel natural. Those who play with a Switch Pro controller may appreciate swapping some buttons around through GameSir Connect.

That software provides customization options for the controller, but you can also use the 'M' multifunction key to adjust the controller's dead zones, RGB lighting, and other elements.

GameSir states that the controller should get around 15 hours of battery life. Since I mostly used the GameSir Super Nova at my desk with its charging dock, battery life was never a factor.

GameSir Super Nova controller review: The bad

• GameSir Connect software struggles to connect wirelessly.
• Unfortunately, this controller does not support Xbox consoles.

The biggest knock on the GameSir Super Nova is not the controller itself. Rather, it's the GameSir Connect software that deserves criticism, or at least one specific aspect of that app.

I had a difficult time getting GameSir Connect to recognize when my controller was connected wirelessly. The app also seems to call the accessory the "Nova Pro" rather than "Super Nova."

If I connect the controller through a wire or manage to connect the device wirelessly, GameSir Connect works well and provides a plethora of customization options.

You can use GameSir Connect to remap buttons, customize RGB lighting, and enable and tweak various controls. The app also makes it easy to map a button to a key or series of keys.

Honestly, it's a shame I have to highlight the wireless connectivity issues because the app is useful and feature-rich.

A much smaller criticism of the GameSir Super Nova is that it does not support Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One consoles. I view that as a small complaint because GameSir is quite clear that the Super Nova is for other devices.

I'd love a version of the GameSir Super Nova with Xbox support, but the fact that the GameSir Super Nova is "just" an excellent controller for PC, Switch, and mobile gaming is a small gripe.

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GameSir Super Nova controller review: Also consider

There are plenty of great controllers to choose from these days. While I found the GameSir Super Nova perfect for my setup, there are certainly worthy alternatives.

The GameSir Cyclone 2 also comes with a charging dock, has Hall Effect sticks and triggers, and has a 1000Hz polling rate.

The Xbox Wireless Controller just went up in price, making it harder to recommend. That said, it is still the standard for an Xbox-style gamepad.

On top of being a solid controller for PC and mobile gaming, the Xbox Wireless Controller comes with the obvious bonus of working with Xbox consoles.

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GameSir Super Nova controller review: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You want an affordable controller with Hall Effect sticks and triggers

Since the GameSir Super Nova has Hall Effect sticks and triggers, you don't have to worry about stick drift.

✅You want a comfortable and versatile controller

With support for PC gaming, Nintendo Switch, or playing games on an iOS or Android device, the GameSir Super Nova is a controller that punches above its weight.

You should not buy this if ...

❌You need an Xbox controller

The GameSir Super Nova does not support Xbox consoles such as the Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S.

❌You need more than two back buttons or prefer paddles

The GameSir Super Nova has two mappable back buttons but lacks paddles, which some people prefer.

The GameSir Super Nova is a joy to use, and I was surprised to see that an accessory of this quality costs under $50. The controller's sturdy build, Hall Effect sticks, and overall design could easily be passed off as a more premium device with a higher price tag.

While my issues connecting to GameSir Connect wirelessly are noteworthy, they are far from a deal breaker. GameSir Connect is still powerful and lets you customize your controller, but I only found myself using the app a few times during my extended testing.

Most importantly, the GameSir Super Nova feels great. In over 100 hours of testing, I consistently had an excellent experience.

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The game controller that helped convert me to PC gaming is now on sale. A discount on the GameSir Super Nova drops the controller down to just $41 at Amazon.

I finally took the plunge into PC gaming this year. After decades of primarily using consoles, I was tempted by Steam sales and the freedom of the platform.

But since I'm still new to PC gaming, most games I enjoy are best played with a controller rather than a keyboard. The GameSir Super Nova has proven a trusty companion and during Amazon Gaming Week you can grab the gamepad at a discount.

Why you should buy the GameSir Super Nova

I'm wrapping up a review of the GameSir Super Nova this week. The controller has impressed me throughout my testing and it's easy to recommend.

The $50 retail price of the GameSir Super Nova was already lower than I expected for a controller of this quality. I've spent over 100 hours with the controller across games from several genres. The GameSir Super Nova is responsive, comfortable, and its rubberized grips are great for long playing sessions.

The included dock that ships with the GameSir Super Nova is a nice addition. The controller has pogo pins along the back, which allow you to rest the gamepad without having to fiddle with a cable. I also never have to worry about battery life, since my controller lives in the dock.

I confess I'm not a fan of RGB lighting. But the GameSir Super Nova has some nice accent lighting that you can customize through the GameSir Connect app.

On that note, the only issue I ran into during my review is that GameSir Connect can struggle to connect to a controller through Bluetooth. The app works fine once you connect to your controller, but the hiccups were irritating.

Overall, the GameSir Super Nova punches above its price tag, even at full price. Features like Hall Effect sticks and triggers, a sturdy design, and an included dock add up to create an excellent game controller. The discount to $41 during Amazon Gaming Week makes the GameSir Super Nova an easy purchase.

The sheer range of mobile controllers has exploded in recent years, owing to the popularity of services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvidia GeForce Now, which let you play full console and PC games on the go, straight from your mobile. Rather than relying on shaky touchscreen controls, we recommend getting a dedicated mobile controller to turn your smartphone into a fully fledged gaming handheld. Still, so many controllers are on the market now, and they are not of equal quality.

abxylute (yes, it's supposed to be in lowercase) caught my eye recently with a press release touting its S9 mobile controller as a top 5 success on Amazon within 6 months of release.

Not a small feat when up against stiff competition from brands like Razer, GameSir, and Turtle Beach. Let's check out the abxylute S9 controller and how it stacks up against the many other mobile controllers I have tried.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by abxylute. abxylute had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

abxylute S9 review: Pricing and specifications

• The abxylute costs $79.99.
• It fits mabxyluteost Android smartphones and iPhone with USB-C connection, and even the iPad mini.

The abxylute S9 is a mobile gaming controller designed to cater to both smartphones and tablets, so everything from the Samsung S25 Ultra to the iPhone and iPad mini. Priced at $79.99 on Amazon, it provides a premium set of features such as swappable faceplates and joysticks, programmable buttons, Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity, and passthrough charging, all within a sleek, lightweight design.

This controller aims to transform your Xbox Cloud Gaming experience into something akin to using a Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck.

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abxylute S9 review: The good

• The abxylute S9 accomodates a large range of smartphone sizes
• Swappable joysticks, and d-pads provide some customization

The abxylute S9 comes in all recyclable packaging, which is always appreciated nowadays, there's no plastic to be seen here, and I like to see manufacturers being more mindful of their impact on the environment rather than the standard packed with plastic and polystyrene you can get with some other brands.

The controller itself stretches to accommodate a wide range of smart devices, including cased iPhones, iPad minis, and Android tablets. My main phone is a Samsung S25 Ultra, and while not the size of an iPad, I can still have trouble with some mobile controllers popping out of place. Thankfully, the design of the S9 held my phone in place perfectly.

The image below looks a little awkward because my case is really that bulky, with a camera protruding at the back, yet rest assured, the case held it firmly.

Customization-wise, abxylute has included swappable faceplates, joysticks, and d-pads without needing to pay for extra bits and bobs.

There are three D-pad styles (cross, circle, hybrid) to choose from. Hall effect joysticks reduce the risk of stick drift—a persistent issue with analog sticks used by the big names like Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo.

Adjustable linear triggers, and the vibration can even be customized directly from the D-pad itself. If you want to go wild, the six-axis gyro system can even mimic joystick inputs.

The buttons are proudly advertised as 'quiet,' so they aren't as clicky as I prefer, but not everyone wants to hear every button press, so I'll let that one slide.

For those using Xbox Cloud Gaming. Nvidia GeForce Now or similar services, this controller makes mobile gaming far easier and more enjoyable than fiddling with touch controls.

The USB-C connector plugs the device into your phone, meaning you don't need to charge it separately, and it runs off your mobile power. This also extends pretty generously, so as I mentioned previously, there is no need to faff and remove your phone case. Not many mobile controllers can boast this.

There's also a sticker included that you can put on the inner rubber showing the button shortcuts, which is another small detail I appreciated.

abxylute S9 review: The bad

• No faceplate variety despite them being swappable
• Lights on controller don't turn off

I couldn't find a huge range of the faceplates on abxylute's website but I assume more will be added in time, though offering this feature while only having the black and blue available seems an odd choice.

There's also no option to turn off the controller's lighting, which, while it looks nice, would be a waste of my mobile battery.

Otherwise, there isn't much to complain about with this controller. It does what it says, and while I prefer the handling and size of GameSir's G8 grips, this is a solid choice and priced competitively. You've got to love options!

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abxylute S9 review: Also consider

As mentioned, my favorite mobile controller which I recommend to anyone that will listen is the GameSir G8 which also has USB-C connectivity, or the GameSir G8+ for those that prefer Bluetooth. They are priced at $80 on Amazon. Both controllers offer swappable faceplates and joysticks, but the S9 takes customization a step further with multiple D-pad styles.

It's a little heavier than the abxylute, and the grips are larger, so it is definitely down to personal preference, which is hard to convey. However, as they are priced very similarly, I suggest you check out both before making your mind up. I do have to take my case off with the G8, so the abxylute model does win in that respect.

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abxylute S9 review: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You play a lot of games on your mobile and don't want to rely on touch controls

The abxylute S9 is a solid option to give you full size gaming controls

✅You dont want to remove your phone case, or you have a large device

This case extends both outwards and has a generously sized USB-C connector to accomodate most phones and cases

You should not buy this if ...

❌You want a controller that won't use your battery

This controller does have light up elements that may drain your battery quicker than a controller that doesn't

❌You want a more compact mobile controller

This doesn't fold up like some mobile controllers

The abxylute S9 is a new contender in the burgeoning market of mobile gaming controllers, and it's nice to see someone try to give GameSir a run for their money in the value stakes.

Given the extended size of the abxylute S9, it will make a good choice for those who want to use with multiple devices. abxylute is also working on its own full Android-based gaming device with the abxylute one Pro, which looks like a viable competitor for the Logitech G Cloud at a more reasonable price point. These are definitely a brand to watch in 2025.

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As soon as I reviewed the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, I knew it set a new high bar for what an Xbox controller could be. Truly as close to perfect as I think is possible right now.

But Razer hasn't stood still and only went and made it even better. Not through a newer version, but through a free firmware upgrade. Normally I don't get remotely excited by updating my controller, but this one is different.

The headline news is that for PC gamers, the Wolverine V3 Pro is now easier to live with. The latest firmware enables integration with Razer Synapse 4, which may have its critics, but is much better to use on the PC than the Xbox-optimized app we've had to put up with so far.

Once updated, you'll no longer have to turn your controller into Xbox mode simply to customize it, you can simply open Synapse as you would normally, and it'll be there to tweak as you wish.

Here's the full changelog for this firmware update:

• Enabled Synapse 4 compatibility while controller is on PC mode
• Added Digital Trigger and RapidTrigger
• Added support for customizable polling rate
• Added 500 Hz polling rate mode target for wireless dongle without headphones connected
• Added 4 onboard profiles
• Added Controller Calibration feature
• Added “Ignore Diagonals” mode for d-pad. In this mode, d-pad will only support one cardinal direction at a time.
• Improved controller mode switching behaviour

Lots of interesting stuff in there, admittedly, I haven't yet had time to poke around with all of it. The Digital Trigger appears to turn the triggers on the Wolverine V3 Pro essentially into buttons, and you have the ability to change at what point you want them activating.

I'm sure there's a use case for this I'm not thinking of, mostly because I use mine with the trigger stops on, so they're already pretty much just buttons.

What I am going to use the heck out of though are the four onboard profiles. Once built, you change between them by pressing the circle button and one of the four face buttons.

Going into an app to do this stuff is tiresome, but no longer will I have to play The Division 2 with my Call of Duty button layout just because I'm lazy. I'm a happy man.

To get the update you need to head to the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro Firmware download page, grab the installer, open it, and simply follow the on-screen instructions. Once complete, you can jump into Synapse 4 and be on your merry way.

Last year, one of the biggest launches was Deadpool x Wolverine, and Xbox launched an infamous sweepstake with it's Deadpool Butt controller.

Infuriatingly, we couldn't actually buy it, and we let Xbox know how annoyed we were. However, GameSir has implemented the Deadpool design into one of its own mobile controllers that's perfect for Xbox cloud gaming. There aren't any butt cheeks I'm sorry to report, but there is that cool red and black leather effect and a fan to keep your phone cool.

Lets take a look at the Deadpool Edition of the GameSir X3 Pro.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by GameSir. GameSir had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

GameSir X3 Pro Deadpool review: Pricing and specifications

• The GameSir X3 Pro Deadpool costs $99.99.
• The base non-Marvel edition of the GameSir X3 Pro is available for $79.99.

The GameSir X3 Pro Deadpool Edition is currently available exclusively on GameSir's website for $99.99 and has yet to be sold at other retailers, unlike some of GameSir's other controllers. If the Deadpool-themed design and case aren't a priority, you can opt for the standard X3 Pro, available on Amazon for $79.99.

This special edition comes with a molded Deadpool carry case, designed specifically for the controller. The package also includes alternate sticks of varying heights and an interchangeable D-pad, offering some customization. .

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GameSir X3 Pro Deadpool review: The good

• The presentation and packaging of the controller is a step up from GameSir's normal fare.
• The sticks are Hall Effect, so durable, and micro-switch buttons are great.

The presentation and packaging of the GameSir X3 Pro Deadpool Edition is a significant upgrade from GameSir's usual offerings. From the moment you unbox it, it's clear they've paid close attention to style and detail, perfectly targeting their audience of Marvel collectors. This is some of the best presentation I've seen from GameSir.

The Deadpool-themed carry case is a standout feature. It has a soft interior to protect the controller, though it's molded specifically for the X3 Pro, which means you can't use it for other items. While I was a little disappointed by this limitation, the case’s Deadpool-inspired design and vibrant colorway more than make up for it.

Customization is another area where this controller shines. The inclusion of swappable ABXY face buttons is a thoughtful touch, letting you switch to a Nintendo-style layout if you prefer. You'll also find alternate sticks of varying heights and an interchangeable D-pad in the box, providing flexibility right out of the gate without needing to purchase additional accessories.

While the controller is on the bulkier side, you can remove the leather grips entirely for a layout that may suit smaller hands. If you're imagining gripping Deadpool's leather-clad butt cheeks (who wouldn't?), these grips are a playful nod to the theme and can be taken off entirely if you prefer a slimmer profile.

Performance-wise, GameSir has equipped the X3 Pro with Hall Effect sticks, ensuring durability and eliminating stick drift — a persistent issue with analog sticks used by the big names like Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo. The micro-switch buttons are another pleasant addition which are more tactile and precise than membrane counterparts.

Finally, for those using Xbox Cloud Gaming. Nvidia GeForce Now or similar services, this controller makes mobile gaming far easier and more enjoyable than fiddling with touch controls.

GameSir X3 Pro Deadpool review: The bad

• The GameSir X3 Pro fan is too loud to make use of.
• It doesn't fit larger phones very well, which is at odds with something for gaming.

One of the most disappointing features of the GameSir X3 Pro is its built-in fan. While the cooling effect does help keep your phone slightly cooler during extended gaming sessions, potentially benefiting the device's longevity, the execution isn't great. The fan is exceptionally loud, to the point where it feels like you're playing alongside a hairdryer.

Even with the option to switch between quick and quiet cooling modes, both are uncomfortably noisy, and I found myself turning it off entirely.

Adding to the inconvenience, the fan requires a separate power source. It doesn’t draw power from your phone, meaning you’ll need to plug it into another device or carry a power bank. This setup feels counterintuitive for a device designed for gaming on the go.

Another significant issue lies in the controller's fit for larger phones. While GameSir controllers are typically well-designed and comfortable, the X3 Pro struggled with the Samsung S23 Ultra I used for testing. Though the phone fits snugly at first glance, it doesn’t stay securely in place.

During gameplay, the grips would shift, and the phone frequently popped out of position. This problem seems to stem from the bulk of the grips, which disrupts the weight distribution.

This review stands in stark contrast to my experience with other GameSir mobile controllers, particularly my favorite, the GameSir G8. The G8’s simpler design and balanced weight make it much more comfortable for extended gaming, even with larger phones.

Unfortunately, the X3 Pro doesn't offer the same ease of use, which is disappointing for a premium-priced controller.

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GameSir X3 Pro Deadpool review: Also consider

As mentioned, my favorite mobile controller which I recommend to anyone that will listen is the GameSir G8 which has USB-C connectivity, or the GameSir G8+ for those that prefer Bluetooth. They are priced at $80 on Amazon.

If it's a snazzy Marvel themed design you are looking for though, GameSir has even covered you there with the Hulk and Thanos versions of the G8 which I will link below.

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GameSir X3 Pro Deadpool review: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You want a visually striking mobile controller and are a huge Deadpool fan

The GameSir X3 Pro is stunning and is modelled after Deadpools suit, and comes with a carry case.

✅You want a mobile controller that cools your device

The fan on the rear is effective at cooling your phone, if you aren't bothered by the noise.

You should not buy this if ...

❌You have a large phone

If you have screen larger than 6 inches like the Samsung Ultra range your phone will pop out of this

❌You don't care about the fan

There are much better mobile controllers in GameSir's range without the fuss of a fan

Overall, while I’ve always admired GameSir’s dedication to making innovative controllers at a lower price point, the X3 Pro Deadpool Edition missed the mark for me.

It’s sure to appeal to diehard Deadpool fans and Marvel collectors who value its unique themed design but as a functional, everyday device for Xbox Cloud Gaming, it falls short. For practical use, I’ll stick with GameSir’s more straightforward controllers, which consistently deliver comfort and reliability without the unnecessary faff.

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On April 1, 2025, the third-party peripheral company GameSir took to X to unveil a new trailer for its latest, upcoming controller, the GameSir G7 Pro. This trailer shows off the controller's technical inner workings and wireless capabilities in action when played on an Xbox Series X|S.

Here's everything you need to know about the GameSir G7 Pro.

Announced during CES 2025, the Gamesir G7 Pro is a controller designed to be compatible with Xbox Series X|S and PC. It can be played with the aforementioned platforms via wired or wireless connections.

What's interesting to note is that it was previously reported to be wireless for the PC only. However, it's now been confirmed that the Gamesir G7 Pro controller will also be playable wirelessly on Xbox consoles, as demonstrated through the trailer.

Other features that the Gamesir G7 Pro will include are (according to HLPlanet's report during CES 2025):

• Mechanical face buttons and a D-pad augmented with optical microswitches.
• Two programmable back buttons and two shoulder buttons with locks.
• A swappable faceplate system much like Gamesir's other G7 controllers.
• A polling rate of 1,000 Hz.
• TMR joysticks.
• A charging dock.

GameSir has produced some of the best Xbox controllers that are both budget-friendly and high-quality, like the GameSir G7 SE Wired controller, the GameSir G8 Galileo, and the GameSir Kaleid Wired Controller, to name a few.

The GameSir G7 Pro, however, plans to take GameSir controllers to higher levels of quality with its state-of-the-art tech, including its wireless capabilities, tactile and durable microswitch buttons, and its TMR joysticks, which are stated to be more responsive and accurate than Hall effect joysticks.

That last part is important because controllers with Hall effect joysticks like the GameSir G7 SE or the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma, for example, are confirmed to have faster and more precise input accuracy than the standard Xbox controller.

So hearing that GameSir G7 Pro's TMR joysticks are even superior to Hall Effects joysticks makes this controller worth keeping an eye out for alone.

The GameSir G7 Pro is currently scheduled to be released sometime during the Spring of 2025, and it will have an MSRP of $79.99.

It's been seven years since Microsoft unveiled the Xbox Adaptive Controller, but that doesn't mean that the company's commitment to accessibility has come to an end. Microsoft officially revealed its Xbox Adaptive Joystick in August 2024, but the newest controller for accessibility only just launched exclusively to the Microsoft Store today for $29.99 following the Microsoft Ability Summit's 15th annual celebration.

According to Microsoft, there are more than 429 million players worldwide who are affected by disabilities each with their own unique needs and preferences. To meet these needs, Xbox has partnered with various members of the Gaming and Disability community to focus development on controllers, gaming accessories, and even packaging that is practical and accessible to more players.

The Xbox Adaptive Joystick is designed with players who face limited mobility as the point of focus, but the singular, wired joystick is versatile enough to be incorporated into a variety of gaming setups. You do not need an Adaptive Controller to use the new Adaptive Joystick, as it can work right alongside a regular Xbox controller.

However, if you do have an Xbox Adaptive Controller, the new joystick can be paired along with it, as well as additional Xbox Adaptive accessories including the mouse, pen, and adaptive kit.

The Xbox Adaptive Joystick is compatible with adaptive setups on both PC and Xbox. The joystick's four face buttons, bumper, and trigger can all be customized using button remapping inside the Xbox Accessories app. The face buttons are white and marked x1, x2, x3, and x4 in black text. The controller's singular thumbstick is clickable and is black with a black frame and the Xbox logo

Microsoft has also previouslyreleased the files necessary to create 3D prints of thumbstick toppers to further improve accessibility. The 3D-printed toppers are compatible with the Xbox Adaptive Controller, as well as other Xbox controllers.

Accessibility meets AI

Along with announcing the availability of the Xbox Adaptive Joystick, Microsoft also took advantage of the annual Microsoft Ability Summit to inject some AI into it's accessibility efforts.

Microsoft teams and partners announced plans to integrate Microsoft's Azure AI features into various programs. Tobii Dynavox, for example, is integrating Microsoft Neural Voice to provide personalized options for individuals using assistive communication devices using eye gaze.

Meanwhile, Microsoft Teams' Sign Language View feature will use AI to improve detection of speakers who are using sign language during video calls. The application then features the Sign Language speaker to ensure they are visible.

Copilot, too, is also turning up more as an accessibility tool. Microsoft highlighted a study that claimed Copilot had helped upwards of 76% of employees with a range of neurodiversities to perform better at work. Microsoft further highlighted how Copilot tools could enhance communication, memory recall, and focus among employees. Even the Special Olympics has utilized Copilot as a training companion for coaches and athletes.

AI has, and continues to be, a hot-button topic among those in gaming, with high-profile voice actors speaking out against the use of AI and the lack of protections from the industry for human talent. However, some ethical uses of AI in gaming seems to be more widely accepted, including Call of Duty's partnership with Modulate to reduce disruptive chat behavior.

Microsoft's Chief Accessibility Officer Jenny Lay-Flurrie committed to furthering accessibility efforts from Microsoft, writing, "Accessibility makes our tools and technologies easier for everyone and accelerates innovation for the world."

Sometimes, playing games with a standard controller just isn't enough to achieve the best inputs and comfort possible while gaming.

That's where third-party controllers come into play, like the Razer Wolverine v2 Chroma, which boasts far greater input latency and ergonomics than regular controllers while sporting extra features to enhance a player's gaming experience.

The Razer Wolverine v2 Chroma normally goes for an MSRP of $149.99, but thanks to this 50% discount, it's now at a more manageable price of $74.75 at Walmart.

Why choose the Wolverine V2 Chroma instead of a standard Xbox controller?

Since 2021, the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma has been my go-to controller for beating the best Xbox games and best PC games with the best inputs possible.

While its successor, the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition, boasts more features and mechanics improvements, the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma still holds up today thanks to its rich qualities and sublime controls that give the best Xbox controllers and best PC accessories a run for their money.

These rich features include a large variety of face buttons, triggers, back peddles, and shoulder buttons that can be reconfigured via the free Razer Controller App to suit a user's play style.

It also has interchangeable analog stick caps ranging from short to long caps, so you can have more precise analog stick movement depending on your preferences.

In addition, the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma includes hair-trigger locks and a Sensitivity Clutch, both of which can reduce the time it takes for the controller to register a player's input on the triggers and analog joysticks.

These features allow a player to perform faster, more accurate headshots while playing intense first-person shooters like Stalker 2, Overwatch 2, and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. I know they will certainly come in handy when I get my hands on the upcoming Doom: The Dark Ages.

The input accuracy of the regular face buttons isn't anything to scoff at either, as this controller features a polling rate of over 500Hz and an average input latency of under 4ms. This is twice the polling rate of the standard Xbox Series X|S controller and 2.8ms faster.

This means that the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma's controls will be able to read your inputs instantaneously and with almost zero input lag, so your character's actions aren't delayed in-game.

The high polling rate and low input latency is what I love most about this controller as it has helped me conquer tough action games like Elden Ring or Lies of P where split-second inputs are critical to your survival.

To top it off, the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma has RGB lights installed to add immersive lighting while playing games that are compatible with them.

The Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma also has textured rubberized grips and well-rounded handles so that the controller is comfortable to hold and use for gaming sessions that could last for hours.

Granted, it's not entirely perfect, as the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma is a wired-only controller. If you're the kind of gamer who hates having to deal with cable management, you're better off getting the more modern and completely wireless Razer Wolverine V3 Pro.

That said, if you don't mind wired-only controllers, then the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma is a must-buy, especially now that it's on 50% sale, which has reduced its high price tag from $149.99 to $74.75 at Walmart.

This means that this controller is currently over $25 cheaper than the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition controller (MSRP $99.99) and over $125 cheaper than the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro controller (MSRP $199.99).

Not only that, Walmart's deal for Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma is over $5 cheaper than the one it's having at Amazon which it has reduced its MSRP to $86.00.

When I walk in to film a sporting event at the University of Nottingham, I'm greeted by a massive reception area with natural lighting pouring down, even on cloudy days in England.

The marketing posts of star athletes sprawling the height of the indoor climbing wall and the countless championship banners hanging up make quite the scene.

I've seen hundreds of people walk into that building for the first time, and their jaws often hang open.

What those players and students don't see are the behind-the-scenes efforts to optimize sports performance with tech. The £40 million sports complex is wired throughout the building to provide Gigabit Internet connectivity to hundreds of PCs.

Add in a full 3G pitch, which normally costs around $1 million on its own, plus poll-mounted cameras, and you end up with the most expensive streaming setup I'll ever touch.

But despite that price tag, the best controller for the system is arguably a $50 game controller.

This isn't a full review of the GameSir Super Nova — though I've used the controller extensively for several weeks, and a full review is on the way.

A first look at the GameSir Super Nova

Spoiler alert: The GameSir Super Nova is excellent. For $50, you get a gamepad with Hall Effect sticks and triggers, a 1,000Hz polling rate, and a charging base.

It's quite customizable, especially for an option in this price range. The GameSir Super Nova supports button swapping, control mapping, customizable RGB lighting, and features a swappable face plate.

RELATED: What is a Hall Effect controller anyway?

Perhaps most importantly, the GameSir Super Nova feels great. It's lightweight but not so light that it feels cheap.

The rubberized grips of the controller, in particular, make it comfortable for longer sessions.

The GameSir Super Nova stood up well in my testing with games, but I wanted to see what else I could use it for. So, its Hall Effect sticks and triggers inspired me to use the Super Nova as a camera controller.

This article and an upcoming review were made possible thanks to a sample provided by GameSir. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this piece prior to publication.

Filming football with a million-dollar setup

I've filmed American football in some capacity for around a decade. I've used everything from a smartphone while standing on top of a shed to the million-dollar setup at the University of Nottingham.

The primary focus of filming at the university is for the team's coaches and players to be able to study gameplay and scout opponents. But we realized early on the potential the setup had for streaming.

The angles and shots needed for film analysis aren't as photogenic as the sideline camera, but they provide a great canvas for commentary and let the friends and family members of the players watch the games live.

"We now have the opportunity to capitalise on the groundswell of interest in American Football in the UK by showcasing the sport and the quality of our athletes on a regular basis," said Mark Bullock, Marketing Manager at the University of Nottingham.

"More practically, the ability to film from multiple angles has elevated the quality of performance analysis and improved the coach-player feedback process by providing quality footage for tape sessions."

The setup at the university includes two pole-mounted cameras that are wired to a network. I then control those cameras with a single computer (a separate PC is used to power the stream).

The university actually has 14 PTZ (Pan, Tilt, Zoom) cameras across three campuses that can film a variety of pitches and courts in 4K, but I use the American football ones primarily.

The stock accessory for controlling the cameras is a joystick, but stick drift has been a serious issue over the years.

Stick drift: The silent killer of controllers

As much as I initially tried the GameSir Super Nova as a camera controller for fun, I had another reason to upgrade the setup: dealing with stick drift. Several joysticks I'd used to record games and practices developed stick drift.

In addition to the sticks drifting left or right, they also developed a zooming drift that made it nearly impossible to get good footage. During one session, I had to stop filming from two angles so I could focus on keeping one camera steady.

To the University of Nottingham's credit, they quickly replaced any defective units and have invested in backups in case stick drift shows up again. But the Hall Effect sticks of the GameSir Super Nova mean stick drift isn't an issue.

Bullock, who is the main person who has to deal with replacing defective joysticks, shared his experience with stick drift at the University of Nottingham:

He continues, "Currently, there is so much waste in this space, with consumers landfilling replacement controllers due to stick drift and simply opting to buy a new controller rather than fix. This should be a far simpler process for replacement and recalibration and would save a ton of electrical waste."

The first time I used the GameSir Super Nova as a PTZ controller, it felt like when you remove a splinter. My mind had gotten used to the constant nagging of stick drift and just felt quiet and stress-free after swapping.

I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the program we use for controlling the cameras already had support for game controllers with standard drivers, including access to the pan, tilt, and zoom controls. I can even switch between different cameras with the LT and RT buttons; no button mapping was needed at all.

Most importantly, the Hall Effect sticks on the GameSir Super Nova don't suffer from stick drift. That means no random panning, tilting, or zooming while filming.

Game controllers: More than just for gaming

I'm not the first person to use a game controller for something other than gaming. The U.S. military has used Microsoft hardware and Xbox controllers for various devices for decades.

Sometimes, the military will use Xbox-like controllers, while other times, they will literally use an Xbox controller. For example, the U.S. Navy uses an Xbox controller for the photonic mast on certain submarines.

Wired has an excellent piece that goes in-depth about the use of controllers, both gaming and gamelike, to control military equipment.

It's easy to see why an organization would use a gamepad to control equipment. Millions of people have grown up playing on Xbox controllers or similar accessories.

Much like driving a vehicle, using a gamepad feels natural over time, and much of that time investment has been made before people show up to control part of a submarine, remote control car, or in my case a PTZ camera.

I occasionally need to train other people to use the cameras at the University of Nottingham. The two aspects of the setup that have the largest learning curve are the joystick and the filming software.

Handing someone a game controller and telling them to play around is a lot easier than teaching shortcuts and controls on a proprietary device.

A game-changing upgrade

What started as an experiment to see if using a gamepad to control cameras was even possible turned into a genuine upgrade for a million-dollar streaming setup.

The Hall Effect sticks of the GameSir Super Nova avoid the dreaded stick drift that plagued several joysticks I had used previously while at the University of Nottingham.

Beyond fixing the stick drift issue, the GameSir Super Nova made the camera setup more intuitive and easier to teach. It’s amazing how much a $50 game controller can improve a million-dollar setup, but more than anything, it's proved the benefits of Hall Effect sensors to me first-hand.

Many brands are currently vying for our attention in the 'pro-controller' space, wanting their own piece of a very large pie, but Scuf is a brand that's been doing this particular niche for quite some time, though not at this lower price range — until now.

The Scuf Valor Pro is the latest controller in a long line, alluding to the premise of making you a better gamer, with more bells and whistles and buttons than your average Xbox controller.

The difference being previous efforts have been nearly double the price, this Scuf Valor is $109.99 and for that reason is the first I've tried from the brand.

I was probably more negative than I should have been going into this review, as being a console gamer, I don't particularly want to be tethered to my console with a wire, especially not for $109.99.

This may be cheap for Scuf, but it is not cheap for a wired controller. Nevertheless, it won me over, and I think it's worth checking out for some of the specific features I enjoyed.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Corsair. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Scuf Valor Pro review: Pricing and specifications

• The Scuf Valor Pro controller costs $109.99
• It comes in Black, White, and a Steel Gray edition as standard
• There are a much wider range of designs direct from Scuf Gaming as well as faceplate options

Prior to its purchase by Corsair, Scuf was known as a controller modding company that added paddles and various other pro features to existing controllers.

After much expansion and licensing its innovations to Microsoft for its own Elite controller, the company was acquired by Corsair in 2019. Despite the acquisition, Scuf has maintained its identity as a separate brand dedicated to high-performance gaming controllers.

The Scuf Valor Pro is its latest venture, costing $109.99 and available for purchase from Amazon and Best Buy in the standard colors of Black, White, and Steel Gray. Additionally, there are several other interesting colors and designs available directly from Scuf Gaming.

As with the Scuf Instinct Pro before it, the faceplate is magnetic and can be swapped out. However, replacement plates are not currently available, and the existing range of Instinct faceplates is not compatible. This particular feature is marked as 'coming soon.'

In the box, you get a USB-C cable that is detachable and can be replaced if damaged, along with two additional thumbsticks of varying heights.

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Scuf Valor Pro controller review: The good

• The controller has Hall-Effect sticks, something Xbox has yet to implement in its own controllers.
• It includes four remappable back paddles with three onboard profiles to change at will.
• The Valor Pro is covered in small details to make gaming more comfortable, such as contoured bumpers for faster transitions and textures on various surfaces.

Whenever I play games like Monster Hunter, Dark Souls, or Elden Ring, I experience hand pain within an hour of playtime.

Since these games don't allow pausing and the fights are so intense, I have a bad habit of gripping my controller in an unhealthy way, not quite the 'furled finger' but a tension that isn't good for my hand muscles.

Naturally, I tested this controller with the latest game I knew would cause me discomfort — Monster Hunter Wilds. No pain, no gain.

This controller's design is incredibly comfortable and lightweight, alleviating much of my discomfort right from the start.

The left and right bumpers offer a satisfying mouse-like click, and I only need to press them very lightly for a response thanks to an exaggerated length and curve around the controller. The level of responsiveness in the buttons is a huge advantage during hunts when every dodge needs to be perfectly timed.

The triggers are smooth as butter and allow me perfect control over charged bow shots and heavy weapon swings with very little physical effort on my part.

With trigger stops on the inner sides of RT and LT, you can activate a hair-trigger mechanism that shortens the throw distance, letting you quickly reset and actuate inputs. This comes in handy for shooters, too, where you want to react fast.

I also used the remapping function to map the 'focus mode' to the back buttons. This mode is already controversial for making the game too easy, but it almost feels like cheating when mapped to a more comfortable position on the rear and playing with a bow.

The back buttons, in general, come in handy for executing complex maneuvers that would normally involve hand gymnastics, and being able to program up to 3 profiles means I can have different settings for each of my chosen weapons.

The back buttons are especially useful for shortcuts like potions usage or weapon swaps, of which there are endless menus for consumables in Monster Hunter Wilds. If you find the inner paddles unnecessary, they can be easily removed for a more streamlined grip.

The thoughtful details all over the controller, such as rubberized texture on the grips, sticks, and bumpers, all add up to make it so much more comfortable to use than a standard controller during my marathon hunts, and the weight seems to perfectly balance between not giving me hand fatigue and also not feeling 'cheap.'

Overall, the controller feels incredibly reliable and was a pleasure to use.

In fact, when sitting at my partner's Xbox and then using his Elite controller without my carefully mapped settings, it was almost like I forgot how to play the game without the Scuf Valor in hand, and the Elite suddenly felt over heavy and cumbersome in comparison.

Of course, the Scuf Valor Pro is also another in a long line of third-party controllers for Xbox that included Hall Effect tech in the sticks and triggers.

Xbox is trailing behind with this in its own range, leading to many complaints of stick drift early in the lifespan of its controllers. That shouldn't be a worry with the Scuf Valor as Hall Effect uses magnets to measure distance and movement in the parts, rather than physical contact, and as such, doesn't experience the same wear and tear.

The Scuf Valor Pro also comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, at least directly through Scuf's own store. Right now, while you can remove the faceplate, there are no replacements to be purchased, but these should be made available soon.

I look forward to changing up the style of mine from the dull grey to something more vibrant.

Another future update to the controller will add a 1000Hz standard polling rate for those who wish to use it for PC gaming, which isn't something I'm particularly concerned with but is worth mentioning.

Another interesting feature of the Scuf Valor Pro is its unique volume dials, reminiscent of mouse wheels, on the bottom of the controller.

The controls remind me fondly of the old Xbox headset adapter, which allowed me to adjust the volume of my game and my party chat separately. Something I used to use frequently, but in the modern day of mainly wireless headsets, I don't have a use for it.

The inclusion of these controls is a nice touch, but being limited to wired headsets when you are already wired to your console makes it a limited use case.

Scuf Valor Pro controller review: The bad

• The Scuf Valor Pro is only usable with a wire, which can be cumbersome for console players.
• There is no companion software.

Now, to address the elephant in the room: this is a $110 controller, and it’s wired.

For me, and likely for many other consumers, that price feels too steep for what’s on offer here. I can’t help but feel disappointed that Scuf didn’t go the extra mile to make this controller wireless. If they had, I could see myself completely replacing my day-to-day controller with it.

As someone who primarily games on consoles, I don’t want to be tethered to my Xbox. Having children and pets only adds to the obstacles; wired controllers create hazards and hassles I’d much rather avoid.

Sure, there are benefits to a wired setup, like not having to worry about charging a battery, reduced weight, and potentially lower latency. But honestly, the latency difference is so negligible that the vast majority of gamers wouldn’t even notice it nowadays.

It’s a shame because this truly is a fantastic controller. I love the customization options, but I find the price too high to confidently recommend it to most people.

Another letdown is the lack of companion software, something I’d expect from a controller marketed as 'pro.' It would be great to plug this into my laptop and fine-tune my profiles for different games rather than relying solely on the onboard options.

While it’s a minor gripe in the grand scheme of things, it feels like it would add to the value somewhat.

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Scuf Valor Pro controller review: Also consider

If you're in the market for a wireless Xbox controller featuring Hall Effect technology, the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is our top recommendation, even outperforming Xbox's own Elite series in our opinion. It even comes in white now.

While there are less expensive alternatives, such as the PowerA Fusion Pro with Lumectra, priced at $150, I wouldn’t recommend it at that cost.

If $199.99 feels out of reach and you’re not bothered by a wired connection, the PowerA Fusion Pro 4 Wired is worth considering.

It’s significantly more affordable than the Scuf Valor Pro, retailing for just $69.99 on Amazon, and it offers many of the same ‘pro’ features, such as Hall Effect thumbsticks, remappable buttons, and a comfortable grip.

While I’d say the Scuf Valor edges out the Fusion in terms of overall comfort, the difference may not be enough to justify spending an additional $40 for the Valor Pro. The trigger stops do let the Fusion Pro down, though, so if that particular feature is important to you, stump up for the Scuf.

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Scuf Valor Pro controller review: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅ You play intense games that require precision

Features like Hall Effect sticks, hair triggers, and four remappable paddles provide excellent control with little effort.

✅ You want a durable and long-lasting controller

Hall Effect sensors reduce wear and tear, addressing issues like stick drift common in Xbox controllers.

You should not buy this if ...

❌ You're on a tight budget

At $110, it’s pricey for a wired controller, and there are cheaper options with comparable features.

❌ You don't want to be tethered to your console

This controller is wired, and for many Xbox players, that's a dealbreaker

In short, I really enjoy using the Scuf Valor Pro and think it's a fantastic Xbox controller. That said, I have to acknowledge the advantage of receiving it for review rather than spending $110 out of pocket.

If I’m honest with myself, would I personally pay that much for a wired controller? The answer is no, and I suspect that’s the case for most people.

While it’s packed with pro features, the reality is that the audience seeking those features is probably the same crowd willing to drop $199.99 on a wireless option like the Razer Wolverine V3. It makes me question whether there’s enough demand for this middle-man option.

That said, I’ll keep using the Valor Pro for my Monster Hunts — it’s genuinely made my playtime much more comfortable. But I can’t, in good conscience, say I’d spend $110 on it.

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There's always new accessories and peripherals coming out for Microsoft's Xbox consoles, and that's especially true with controllers. Indeed, the market has become flooded with quality gamepads as manufacturers vie for a place at the "best Xbox controllers" table, but one in particular that's coming out soon could dethrone one of our absolute favorites.

The gamepad in question is Nacon's new REVOLUTION X Unlimited, an officially licensed controller for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PCs, and Android (with Bluetooth) that's scheduled to release on April 30 — about a month and a half from now. Notably, this controller was originally supposed to come out in Fall 2024, but its release window came and went without any official word about the mysterious delay. Now, though, it's finally launching, with preorders available on Nacon's website (US) and on the Argos storefront (UK).

Offering full wireless connectivity on both Xbox and PC via a USB dongle, the option for wired usage, adjustable "instant triggers" for rapid actuation, Hall-effect joysticks that combat stick drift, a bevy of customization options in the box, and more, the REVOLUTION X Unlimited is poised to compete directly with the excellent Razer Wolverine V3 Pro. Both cost about $200, but there are some notable reasons why you might want Nacon's new gamepad over the latest version of Razer's long-reigning king.

The most obvious difference between the two is the fact the REVOLUTION X Unlimited comes with an onboard LCD screen you can use to quickly remap button inputs, adjust audio mixing, and check battery life, among other things. Much of what's possible with the screen would typically have to be done through software — you'd need to boot up Razer Controller with the Wolverine V3 Pro on Xbox or PC, for example. Nacon also has a Revolution-X PC app, but with this screen, you'd be able to do quite a bit without having to open it.

Secondly, the REVOLUTION X Unlimited comes with an arsenal of swappable components you can use to customize your controller. These include three weights, six different joystick heads, two D-pads, and four joystick rings, along with a carrying case for safe transportation. By comparison, the Wolverine V3 Pro only offers the option between concave and convex joysticks along with its carrying case.

Another win for the REVOLUTION X Unlimited is that it comes with a charging dock, too; the Wolverine V3 Pro doesn't, and also isn't compatible with Razer's popular Universal Quick Charging Stand.

Note that both controllers have PC-specific modes; the REVOLUTION X Unlimited reduces latency down to 1ms wired and 2ms wireless with it on, gets a "gyroscope function to simulate a joystick or the D-pad," and lets you map keyboard keys to controller inputs, while the Wolverine V3 Pro boosts its polling rate up to 1,000Hz for more responsiveness.

Additionally, both have toggleable features to help with precision aim in FPS games. Nacon's gamepad has a "Shooter Pro Mode" that disables dead zones while it's active to allow for precise adjustments, while the Wolverine V3 Pro has a clutch that significantly lowers aim sensitivity while engaged.

Overall, the REVOLUTION X Unlimited has some advantages here, but it also comes with a pretty huge drawback: poor overall battery life. Most controllers can get at least 15-20 hours of wireless play on a full charge, if not more — the Wolverine V3 Pro typically manages just under 20 — but Nacon says the REVOLUTION X Unlimited will only last about 10 hours or so before a six-hour recharge is necessary. This is most likely due to the gamepad's LCD screen that no doubt adds significant extra power draw.

If you don't mind having to charge the controller daily, though, the REVOLUTION X Unlimited is definitely worth keeping an eye on if you're looking for a premium wireless Xbox gamepad. It's the first new controller that has the potential to steal the Wolverine V3 Pro's thunder since the latter released in September last year, though if I were you, I wouldn't preorder and would instead wait until reviews are out.

I swore by the default Xbox Wireless Controller for many years thanks to its reliable wireless performance, ergonomic and attractive design, and accessible price tag. Well, I haven't touched any of my default controllers for months now.

That's because I've been using the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro I helped review, and it's the first true wireless Xbox controller from Razer designed around unlocking your best gaming performance.

It's packed with features and supposedly immune to stick drift (the dreaded death sentence for many a controller), and I've loved using it. The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is one of the best Xbox controllers we've tested, and now it's available in a brand-new color.

Right, that's not too exciting on its own, but being able to see some real pictures (instead of idealized renders) and hear the thoughts of someone who has actually been using this controller may help you decide if it's the next peripheral for you.

First impressions of the Razer Wolverine V3 White Edition

The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro doesn't quite follow the iconic shape of the Xbox Wireless Controller, but still manages to be extremely comfortable and ergonomic on its own. Initial build quality also feels excellent, and the new White Edition possesses all the same qualities.

Unboxing the new Wolverine V3 Pro was a familiar experience. There's the premium, black travel case with dedicated slots for the two thumbstick replacements (still one of each type), the color-matched USB Type-A dongle for Razer HyperSpeed Wireless across Xbox and Windows PC, and the long 10ft, braided USB Type-C to USB Type-A cable (which is not color matched, sadly).

The controller itself feels the same in the hand, but it's now a two-tone design. The entire body and grips are dominated by white, as well as the Menu, View, Share, and Function buttons, but all other buttons, thumbsticks, and triggers are black.

It looks incredibly clean. It may just be because my PC setup (which has been almost entirely black for years) has started to shift to white in recent months, but I really like it.

How does it compare to the regular Wolverine V3 Pro?

I don't take full advantage of the Wolverine V3 Pro's many features, like using all six of the remappable buttons, but this is still my favorite and best performing game controller ever.

The new White Edition is everything I love about the one I've been using for months, but in a sweet new color. It's comfortable, it's responsive, and it's reliable. The White Edition also costs the same as the original, which isn't always a guarantee (especially not with Razer).

The Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition I reviewed also got the white treatment, so it's up to you if you want to pay the big bucks for the more refined, wireless version or if you're okay relying on a wire for half the price.

Whichever way you go, you're getting the same quality — with one lingering concern from the original, and a new one for the White Edition.

How has the original Razer Wolverine V3 Pro held up over time?

When I contributed to Windows Central's Razer Wolverine V3 Pro review with my own findings, I countered my colleague Richard Devine's conclusion with some criticisms of my own.

To be clear, this is still my top Xbox controller and I happily use it every day despite a myriad of available alternatives, but not everything has been flawless considering the $200 price tag.

For one, one of the rear buttons became loose-feeling within a few weeks of use, and now exhibits a frustrating, always-noticeable "double click." A second rear button has begun to do the same to a lesser degree.

Despite the promise of zero stick drift, my right thumbstick has on a few occasions failed to fully reset to neutral when released, leading to drifting. The slightest touch has fixed it each time, but it's there.

The Wolverine V3 Pro still randomly disconnects while remaining on every now and then, requiring me to manually reset it. It usually fails to turn my Xbox Series X on. I've experienced intermittent connections mid-game before.

All of these problems either occur infrequently or are ultimately negligible, but it's worth mentioning because there's no guarantee the White Edition will fare any better.

And indeed, I've had the "Share" and "Xbox" buttons stop working when connected to a Windows PC multiple times, at least until I reset the controller.

Should I be concerned about the white color, especially the grips?

White products are definitely an aesthetic all on their own, but there's a reason black and grey colors are the default (beyond the popularity of darker tech), and that's longevity.

Whether it's the yellowing effects of the sun's rays, the inevitable wear and tear of the human touch, or even just the accumulation of dust and grime over time, white products seemed doomed to age faster.

Controllers are especially susceptible to this process, since they're constantly in your hands (and often for hours at a time). Simply making the grips black can dramatically improve a controller's resistance to staining, and I expected Razer to take the same approach with the Wolverine V3 Pro as it did with previous controllers.

Alas, Razer did not (likely because the way the Wolverine V3 Pro is constructed would make that difficult to accomplish).

I've already used the Wolverine V3 Pro White Edition for over a dozen hours and there hasn't been any sign of staining, but I'm also naturally very clean (I wash my hands many, many times a day) and tend to baby my tech. There's no guarantee it won't become an issue in the future.

Especially if you have children who use your controllers, I may think twice about committing to the White Edition if you're concerned about how it may age.

Still an amazing wireless controller, and it looks great in white

The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is an awesome wireless Xbox and PC controller, and the White Edition is the same. My slight concerns regarding the Wolverine V3's quality control remain, and making the controller all-white (including the grips) doesn't help, but this an attractive, premium controller that looks extra fetching in white.

If you've been on the fence about which controller should be your next, I hope these images and impressions have helped. The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro still earns my wholehearted recommendation for those who want a premium, wireless Xbox controller without rolling the dice on the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller (Series 2), and the White Edition earns the same.

You can now buy the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro White Edition for $199.99 at Amazon. Those who'd rather save their cash and stay connected via a wire can get the Razer Wolverine V3 White Tournament Edition for $99.99 at Amazon.

A brand-new performance controller has been unveiled by SCUF, designed in collaboration with esports pros and creators to develop a uniquely featured pro controller for your Xbox or PC gaming sessions.

The newly announced SCUF Valor Pro Wired Performance Controller is available now for $99.99. You may be wondering, though, just how a wired controller can justify that kind of price tag and what exactly makes it high-performance in the first place.

The SCUF Valor Pro Wired Performance Controller is designed to offer high levels of speed and control to the player by utilizing the ergonomic legacy of SCUF controllers to create an upgraded Xbox shape with a more compact design. This provides a more comfortable and natural positioning of the fingers on the controller's paddles, while contoured bumpers further aid in transitioning between triggers and bumpers more efficiently.

This improved shape also allows for the introduction of four integrated back paddles on the controller, which can be freely remapped across three different profiles. If you find you're not a fan of the back paddles, that's okay. The innermost paddles can be easily removed or blanked, while all four paddles can also be voluntarily disabled using button mapping.

The controller is also developed with Hall Effect thumb sticks, a specially designed thumb stick that uses magnets to detect movement in an effort to reduce the risk of stick drift. SCUF puts in the work to calibrate and re-calibrate these Hall Effect thumb sticks to ensure that despite their differences, the feel of the new sticks is as close to analog thumb sticks as possible.

The controller also tackles another common source of frustration for many gamers: audio controls. With dedicated audio controls built into the controller, including an individual audio scroll wheel to control headset volume and Game vs. Chat mixers. The SCUF Valor Pro Wired performance controller lets you keep your hands on the controller to adjust your audio. There's also a nifty headset and mic mute button right there at your thumb tips.

It's all tied together with a wired connection, which can feel a little outdated in today's controller landscape. However, SCUF claims that the use of a wired connection on a professional controller ensures a faster and more stable connection.

“Experienced Xbox and PC gamers are looking for a controller that can deliver the highest possible performance for their favorite games,” said Aron Drayer, General Manager at SCUF Gaming. “The SCUF Valor Pro Wired takes more than thirteen years of SCUF knowledge and expertise in design to deliver the ultimate in control, speed and customization.”

The SCUF Valor Pro Wired controller is available in four color variants: steel gray, black, white ,and smoke, and is compatible with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows 10, and Windows 11 PCs.

Pro-designed controller that's accidentally accessible

As a long-time Call of Duty fan, I have personally found that back paddles like those on the SCUF Valor Pro Wired Performance Controller are a must-have for improved performance. I often map these buttons for the sort of moves that would otherwise have required moving my thumbs away from the thumb sticks, such as calling in kill streaks, reloading, or sliding.

These types of controllers are traditionally marketed as 'professional', which is all well and good, they often have the additional benefit of accessibility. I live with rheumatoid arthritis and tackle the woes of hand fatigue while gaming. When these 'professional' controllers make adjustments to the ergonomics and button placements of a standard controller layout, they can often address some issues that people like me experience with gaming. Making a controller that levels the battlefield a bit, even if by accident, is always a welcome turn of events.

GameSir is a manufacturer based in China but shipping globally, that specializes in gaming controllers for PC, Xbox and mobile. I've reviewed many of its models in my time at Windows Central, and one of our absolute favorites for Xbox is the GameSir G7 SE wired. In this review, I'm going over the GameSir G7 HE which has a couple of significant upgrades from the SE, but also in true GameSir form randomly removes some features. That being said, while we still wait in anticipation for a wireless option for Xbox from GameSir, I firmly believe the G7 HE is the best the brand has offered for the platform so far, and at a price point that makes it accessible for most. Without further ado, let's go through what is different about the GameSir G7 HE.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by GameSir. GameSir had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

GameSir G7 HE controller review: Pricing and specifications

• The GameSir G7 HE controller costs $49.99
• It comes in Black, White, and even an Iron Man Special Edition

You can purchase the GameSir G7 HE from Amazon or directly from GameSir. There are currently 3 colours, Black, White and an Iron Man special edition. Similar to the G7 SE, you can change the faceplate to one of many other designs, purchased separately. The magnetic faceplate comes off and snaps back on, and while there isn't a huge range of designs available it's a nifty feature.

In the box you get the USB-C cable which detaches so can be replaced if it gets damaged or... inevitably lost if your house is anything like mine.

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GameSir G7 HE controller review: The good

• The controller has Hall-Effect sticks, something Xbox has yet to implement in its own controllers.
• The membrane buttons from the SE model have been upgraded to micro-switch for more precision and durability.
• The G7 HE has added silicone grips for comfort.

If you already own the G7 SE, you might be wondering whether it’s worth upgrading to the G7 HE. I was skeptical myself, questioning how much could have changed and if those changes justified an entirely new model name. However, after spending time with the HE, I can confidently say the upgrades are worth it. In fact, my beloved G7 SE has now been relegated to the shelf in favor of this version.

• ALSO READ: GameSir G7 SE Review (2023)

Why? The buttons are simply glorious. GameSir has ditched the membrane buttons from the SE and replaced them with microswitches, which are satisfyingly clicky—almost distractingly so. More importantly, they’re more precise and significantly more durable. GameSir originally included these buttons on the first G7 but, for some inexplicable reason, removed them on the SE. Now they’re back and better than ever.

Another small but noticeable improvement is the addition of silicone grips on the rear. These make the controller even more comfortable to hold and ensure it doesn’t slip during sweaty palmed gaming sessions, of which I'll be having many when Monster Hunters Wilds launches.

The G7 HE also carries over some fantastic features from the G7 SE, including the hall-effect sticks. Unlike traditional analog sticks, which rely on physical contact and are prone to drift, hall-effect sticks use magnetic fields. This design means you won’t have to worry about stick drift, and the controller is likely to last much longer. The anti-friction rings are also present, allowing the sticks to glide smoothly. While I miss the bright design of the SE’s rings, the HE’s blended look works well with the faceplate, and the functionality remains top-notch.

GameSir G7 HE controller review: The bad

• The GameSir G7 SE had the ability to lock the rear buttons, the HE has removed these.
• It's 2025 and GameSir are yet to make a wireless controller for Xbox, and $50 for a wired controller is starting to look less reasonable.
• There are no trigger stops.

In true GameSir fashion, they never seem to release a controller that’s completely perfect. Between the G7 and G7 SE, they randomly removed the microswitch buttons—and now, with the G7 HE, they’ve taken away the handy rear switches that used to lock the back buttons in place. While it’s a small change, it’s noticeable. The rear buttons are now easier to press accidentally, and if you don’t want to use them, the locking mechanism was a nice option to have.

Another omission worth mentioning is the lack of trigger stops. While this isn’t a dealbreaker at this price point, it’s something to consider if you’re specifically looking for a controller to optimize FPS gameplay. This missing feature might leave you feeling slightly underwhelmed.

Overall, I still like the G7 HE more than the SE and think it’s a fantastic controller. So why did I give it a 4 out of 5 when the older model scored 4.5? Well, it's been two years since we looked at the SE G7. Expectations are higher now, and $50 for a wired controller feels a little less reasonable—even with Hall Effect capabilities. The reality is that most Xbox gamers prefer wireless options, especially if you have kids or pets around. While I love this controller for playing on my Series S with a small attached screen (since I keep it close by), it doesn’t replace wireless controllers for playing on my TV.

Third-party wireless Xbox controllers are becoming more common, albeit at much higher price points. GameSir still hasn’t delivered a reasonably priced wireless Xbox controller, even though their PC offerings, like the Cyclone 2, are incredible. I suspect this isn’t entirely GameSir’s fault. Microsoft likely holds strict control over wireless licensing for Xbox, and only brands like Razer, PowerA, Turtle Beach (PDP Gaming included), and SCUF (owned by Corsair) seem to have access to that privilege. I’d bet Microsoft ensures these third-party wireless options remain higher priced than their own controllers.

It’s frustrating because GameSir is absolutely nailing it with PC controllers, but their hands seem tied when it comes to Xbox. I can’t ignore that, no matter how much I love their work.

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GameSir G7 HE controller review: Also consider

If you're specifically looking for a wireless controller for Xbox with Hall Effect technology, you'll pay handsomely for it, but the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is currently our best pick. We even recommend it over Xbox own Elite series of controllers. There are cheaper options like the PowerA Fusion Pro with Lumectra for $150, but I don't recommend it at that price point.

If you're primarily a PC gamer, you're in luck—there are far more wireless options at lower price points. My favorite right now is the GameSir Cyclone 2 Wireless, which comes with a magnetic charging stand and is currently on sale. This controller also features a cutting-edge stick technology called TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance). Without diving too deep into the science, TMR works similarly to Hall Effect by using magnets and electric fields, but it’s even more precise and consumes less battery.

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GameSir G7 HE controller review: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You want a cheap controller for Xbox that won't get stick drift

The GameSir G7 HE has Hall-Effect tech in both the sticks and triggers

✅You want clicky buttons and a comfortable grip

The microswitch buttons are some of the clickiest in the biz, and the cushioned grips are a joy to hold

You should not buy this if ...

❌You need trigger stops for FPS

There are 2 rear remappable buttons, but no trigger stops on this controller

❌You don't want to be tethered to your console

This controller is wired, and for many Xbox players that's a dealbreaker

Overall, I love this controller, and I truly wrestled with giving it a 4 or 4.5 rating. After all, its predecessor scored a 4.5, and the G7 HE comes with so many small improvements. However, the reality is that I expect more from my controllers—and by extension, from GameSir as a brand. Whether it's within their control or not, I can't ignore that, in 2025, I’d be hesitant to shell out $50 for a wired controller, no matter how much value it offers with the Hall Effect tech.

I’m hoping to see more budget-friendly wireless options for Xbox from third-party brands, and based on my experience testing GameSir's PC controllers, I firmly believe they’re the ones who can deliver this (if and when Microsoft allows it).

For now, though, if you enjoyed the SE G7 and the wired aspect isn’t a dealbreaker for you, you’ll absolutely love this controller. It’s definitely worth our recommendation.

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If you want to take your gaming skills to the next level but feel that standard controllers are holding you back, then 3rd party peripherals are the way to go. One such product is the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma, a premium wired controller with remappable buttons and extremely accurate controls that have little to no input delay.

This controller is normally sold for a steep MSRP of $149.99 but it is on sale for a more affordable price tag of $70.32 at Amazon.

What makes the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma worth buying over a standard Xbox controller?

The Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma has a plethora of features that make it one of the best Xbox controllers on the market despite being a wired controller with no wireless connectivity whatsoever. It's got a wide variety of controls like face buttons, triggers, back peddle buttons, and shoulder buttons, all of which can have their functions remapped from game to game with the free Razer Controller App to suit your preferences.

It has hair-trigger locks and a Sensitivity Clutch that reduces the time it takes to register trigger and joystick inputs so you can pull off faster, more precise shots in first-person action games like Stalker 2, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, or Indiana Jones and the Great Circle to name a few.

The Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma also includes RGB lighting to add immersive lights when playing games in the game, and comfy ergonomic features like textured, rubberized grips and well-rounded design to keep your hands comfortable for long hours of gaming.

However, the feature that elevates this controller above its peers (and one that earned the praise of our very own Jez Corden during his Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma review) is its extremely high input accuracy and fast response times.

The Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma features a polling rate of over 500Hz and an average input latency of under 4ms, which is twice the polling rate and 2.8ms faster than the standard Xbox Series X|S controller. In layman's terms, this means that you will experience very little to no input lag and your inputs will be registered at lightning-quick speeds while using the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma.

With the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma, I was able to have a vastly easier and more fun time beating tough games like Elden Ring and Capcom's Monster Hunter series as this controller allowed me to perform attacks and defensive blocks with much cleaner inputs than the regular Xbox controller ever did.

So, if you want to get the most out of playing the best Xbox games without being held back by input delay as much as possible, then I highly recommend the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma. This controller is currently on sale for $70.32 at Amazon after having its MSRP of $149.99 cut down by 53%, making it $29.67 cheaper than its premium successor, the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition controller.

The PB Tails Metal Crush Defender TMR is certainly a quirky-looking controller with its bold design but it feels every inch its worth at it's premium price point. The addition of TMR technology makes stick movements buttery smooth and while it does lack some other features I'd expect at this price range it's a stylish choice for controller collectors and an absolute pleasure to use.

PB Tails is a relatively niche company specializing in quirky and unique gaming controllers, using unusual materials and finishes like aluminum alloy, having controllers inspired by cars and other strange shapes like their pixelated CHOC controller, I've always been intrigued by their designs but surious as to their actual functionality in day to day use. Among their lineup, the PB Tails Crush range features TMR sticks (tunneling magnetoresistance), a cutting-edge technology considered even more advanced than Hall Effect sticks and adopted by only a few brands so far, I had to try it for myself. Overall I was pleasantly surprised by this bonkers looking controller which manages to look rugged but feel premium in a way many third-party controllers lack right now out side of Xbox and PlayStations own offerings.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by PB Tails. PB Tails had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

PB Tails Metal Crush controller review: Pricing and specifications

• The PB Tails Metal Crush Defender TMR controller costs $109.99.
• There are some cheaper alternatives in plastic, from $45.99 if you are only interested in the TMR sticks.

The price of the Crush range varies depending on the controllers shell, so you can grab the plastic 'China White' Crush TMR for $64.99, with some cheaper $45.99 versions for Nintendo Switch layout. The Crush 550 TMR with Porsche inspired details retails for $79.99, while the Metal Crush Ghost Silver is available for $99.99.

I’ve been testing the Metal Crush Defender TMR, priced at $109.99, which features a yellow-worn metallic design reminiscent of Fallout’s post-apocalyptic style. PB Tails controllers are not widely available and are primarily sold through their official website, though some models can be found on Ali Express.

In the box, you get a hard leather effect case with a cushioned innard to keep your controller, a slot for the included 2.4Ghz dongle, and the USB wire for charging and wired use fits into netting within the case.

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PB Tails Metal Crush controller review: The good

• The TMR sticks feel incredibly smooth and precise, offering a more noticeable improvement over Hall Effect sticks than I expected.
• The controller is incredibly well-built and feels like a luxury product.
• Wireless connectivity with the USB receiver is a doddle, but there's also Bluetooth capability too and it's easy to switch between modes.

Firstly, the aesthetics of this controller are a 10/10. Looking like I picked it up from a scrapyard in Fallout, it's yellow metal casing and mirrored joysticks give it for want of a better phrase, a scrapyard chic vibe. Every inch of the design is packed with intricate details, from the wear and tear etched around the seams to the distressed marks near the joysticks. Despite its rough and ready appearance, it feels remarkably luxurious, thanks in part to its weighty build. Holding it reminded me of my first time with the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller—it exudes quality.

At $109.99, this controller is undoubtedly a premium product, but it truly feels like you're holding something unique. The included leatherette carrying case adds to the luxury experience. However, it wasn’t just the visuals that caught my attention—the Tunneling Magnetoresistance (TMR) technology in the sticks immediately piqued my interest.

What is TMR (Tunneling Magnetoresistance)?

"Wait!" My internal dialogue puzzled, "I’ve just started using Hall Effect. What the heck is TMR?" I had to do my research and now I can clue you in too.

Most controllers on the market use standard analog potentiometer joysticks, which rely on physical contact between components to measure force and distance. Over time, wear and misalignment in these parts lead to the infamous stick drift. Hall Effect sensors bypass this issue by using magnets to measure movements, eliminating physical contact and significantly reducing the chance of stick drift while improving precision. While brands like Xbox haven’t adopted Hall Effect yet, third-party companies have already embraced it with gusto, see the GameSir G7 SE, Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra and Razer Wolverine V3 Pro for just a few examples.

So, where does TMR come in? Like Hall Effect, TMR uses magnetic technology, but it measures resistance changes rather than voltage. TMR is considered more precise, with the ability to detect much smaller movements. It's also less heavy on battery consumption, and is more expensive to implement, which is why it's still relatively rare on the market.

I was skeptical about whether I’d notice much difference between TMR sticks and the Hall Effect sticks on my GameSir G7 SE, but the Metal Crush controller blew me away. The sticks feel incredible, moving as smoothly as a hot knife through butter. While I typically prefer grippy or concave joystick surfaces, the Metal Crush’s smooth, convex sticks didn’t bother me as much as I expected. That said, a textured surface would still have been a welcome addition—it’s a minor gripe in the grand scheme of things.

The triggers and bumpers feel solid and comfortable, adding to the overall impression of durability. The advertised 10-hour battery life held true during my testing. While it doesn’t match the Xbox Elite Series 2’s 40-hour runtime, 10 hours is sufficient if you charge it after every few sessions.

Connecting the controller to different devices was simple, thanks to the included 2.4GHz wireless dongle. I used it mainly with my JSAUX Steam Deck dock for docked gaming and plugged it into my laptop for Xbox cloud gaming. While the controller doesn’t officially support Xbox, this workaround made it compatible. I didn’t test it with the Nintendo Switch, but there’s a dedicated button at the top to switch between Switch and PC modes.

The controller includes a Turbo button, allowing you to assign rapid presses to any face button. This cheat mode makes it easier to spam attacks without wearing out your thumbs. While similar functionality is sometimes available in in-game accessibility settings, having it built into the hardware is a great fallback when the option isn’t there.

PB Tails Metal Crush controller review: The bad

• The smooth, mirrored joysticks are unique but may pose issues for sweaty hands.
• Despite its premium price, the controller lacks trigger stops and remappable rear buttons, which are standard features in many high-end competitors.

I've already kind of touched on what I thought would be an issue with the sticks. The choice of a smooth, mirrored texture is certainly unique, and while it didn’t bother me as much as I thought it would, it could be an issue for gamers prone to sweaty hands. A concave design would have provided better grip without compromising the aesthetics. In fact, given the controller’s car-inspired materials, PB Tails could have implemented engraved or textured metal sticks to get better functionality without compromising on the style points.

The price of the Metal Crush TMR is another consideration. At this premium tier, I would expect more standard features commonly found in high-end controllers. While the TMR sticks and Hall Effect triggers are excellent, the controller lacks trigger stops for FPS games and remappable rear buttons, which are standard on similarly priced competitors. For a luxury controller, these omissions are disappointing and worth noting.

Lastly, the magnetic faceplate system is a fantastic feature—it’s so well-integrated I didn’t even realize it was removable at first. However, the lack of variety in replacement faceplates is a letdown. The available options on the PB Tails website are limited to basic Red, White and Blue designs, despite promotional images showcasing beautiful transparent shells that aren’t currently for sale. It’s a missed opportunity to fully capitalize on this innovative feature and I absolutely would be buying a couple if there were more options.

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PB Tails Metal Crush controller review: Also consider

While the PB Tails Metal Crush is truly unique, if you are interested in trying out TMR stick technology specifically there are a couple of options on the market that also use some cheaper build materials that you should consider. First up is the main competitor from GameSir, the GameSir Tarantula Pro which not only has the TMR sticks but has a rotating face button feature so when you switch between PC and Nintendo Switch, the ABXY buttons can move too. Nifty right? It's also cheaper than PB Tails Metal Crush at $69.99, but you are compromising on the premium feel of the PB Tails option.

Secondly, coming in cheaper without the breadth of customization options, there is the GameSir Cyclone 2 Pro wireless.

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PB Tails Metal Crush controller review: review: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You want a unique and premium controller
The PB Tails Metal Crush Defender has standout aesthetics and a rugged metal design

✅You're looking for next-level precision in your joysticks

The TMR technology offers smooth and accurate movement

You should not buy this if ...

❌You need other practical gaming features

There are no trigger stops or remappable buttons, or any customization software.

❌You have excessively sweaty hands

The mirrored and convex joysticks could be an issue for you if this is the case.

Overall, while not perfect, the PB Tails Metal Crush Defender was a joy to test and offered something truly different from what I’m used to. It's been a while since I’ve experienced a luxury controller that holds its own alongside the Xbox Elite Series 2 in the style and craftsmanship stakes, and this one certainly competes in that department. The bold design, precision-focused sticks, and premium materials make it highly desirable for controller collectors looking to step outside the box. However, it's not without its shortcomings. At this price, the addition of rear buttons, trigger stops, and more thoughtful textured details could have made it perfect. That said, I’ll be using this controller for my Steam Deck sessions for quite some time—it’s been a pleasure to use.

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