Value GameSir X2 was great, the GameSir X2 Pro is even better – all thanks to that “Licensed by Xbox” badge.
It keeps the same great value for money and ultimate convenience of the X2, while introducing some small but impressive updates such as programmable buttons on the back and triggers with actual travel.
While iPhone users use the Spine One, does the X2 Pro fill that void as the definitive phone controller for Android users? In one word: yes. But let me explain further.
GameSir X2 Pro price
While the X2 offered three different versions, the GameSir X2 Pro (opens in new tab)comes in just one: USB-C for $79 / £79. This may be ten dollars more than the X2, but it’s still a seriously competitive price compared to the Backbone One at $99 more.
And the upgrades on offer here more than justify the price increase.
GameSir X2 Pro Design
GameSir’s X2 Pro will be very similar to GameSir veterans (except for that nice black finish). It still has a nice, solid build quality, which has endured some of my more torturous handling when tossing it in a bag for long-haul travel.
The fact that there is a full-sized controller back instead of a backbone like the Spine One or Razer Kishi, it also gives a firmer feel in the hand. Plus, the inclusion of a case to keep the controller safe is a nice integration that you’ll rarely find in the competition.
That free-running USB-C connector also makes an appearance, eliminating any chance of damaging your port with a fixed plug, and the rubber grips on the back provide a secure grip. But it’s another change at the back where you notice the two biggest differences.
First, the assignable back buttons that are perfectly placed where your fingers are, give you quick and easy access to specific controls or even a few macros. Second, the very warmly welcomed addition of the right triggers. Where it was just buttons on the X2, the Pro benefits from half-effect analog triggers that provide a good amount of travel with finer control for things like acceleration.
It’s a very thoughtfully designed piece of kit for gamers, with tactile buttons and smooth, responsive analog sticks (and the addition of the Xbox button). There’s a lot to love here!
GameSir X2 Pro Connectivity and Support
GameSir has focused on USB-C Android connectivity for the X2 Pro, with no Lightning or Bluetooth model in sight. Though the latter isn’t a huge loss, given the slight latency in button operations.
As I mentioned above, that connector on a 50-degree hinge makes it so much easier to connect your phone to it, and the support for maximum phone length of 6.5 inches means you can easily use samples like the ZTE Axon 40 5G and Red Magic 7 Pro without any problem.
While some things have changed, some have stayed the same, for better or for worse. Firstly, the case support is very limited apart from cheap, or at least very thin cases. The bottom of your phone should in principle remain uncovered, so as not to restrict the USB-C connection. Anyone who is particularly clumsy with their phone should be careful.
Second, while there’s USB-C power and audio pass-through, there’s no 3.5mm headphone jack. I understand that we live in a wonderful world of true wireless earbuds and chances are most of you will be happy with that setup. But it will never truly be latency-free, which can make rhythm games next to impossible.
I highly recommend getting a USB-C to 3.5mm headphone jack to counter this.
GameSir X2 Pro software
Any experienced GameSir player knows that the app is one of the weak points of all their controllers. That’s the same for the X2 Pro, but it just keeps getting better.
It’s just a simple companion app that lets you customize the button layout according to what you’re using, create custom controller assignments, and update the firmware. The user interface is a lot easier to navigate than before, but this is nothing like the Backbone app, which transforms your phone into a portable gaming system with a horizontal interface with buttons.
Instead, it’s just a barebones vertical app for tinkering with settings, which can be weird to use with the controller plugged in – no pooled library of all your games on the phone and no party chat. GameSir made it clear that this is how the company’s app should be used: as a glorified settings screen for your new pad.
But that’s not a problem, because the Xbox licenses make this a dream to use with Xbox Cloud gaming. Buttons are mapped correctly, latency is virtually non-existent and the user interface is a joy to explore.
Bottom Line
The GameSir X2 came so close to being the best game controller for phones in general, and the X2 Pro has come a lot closer thanks to a durable build, buttons and analog sticks that feel great; the same consumer-friendly decisions such as value for money; and important updates to the triggers and back buttons.
The companion app is still pretty weird, removing a lightning version is either a disappointing omission or a 900 IQ move in preparation for a USB-C armed iPhone, and the lack of a 3.5mm headphone jack still makes a difference. little pain.
But these are easily forgivable with an overall stellar package that takes advantage of the Xbox licenses to become one of the best controllers for Microsoft’s cloud gaming.
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