Two GameSir universal mobile controllers for smartphones, small tablets and Nintendo consoles are on sale for a limited time at Walmart and Amazon. Notably, both controllers can be used with the Nintendo Switch 2 in handheld mode. They offer better ergonomics and have traditional D-pads, taller joysticks and larger buttons than the Joy-Con 2 controllers. GameSir X5s are on sale at a discount $40 (was $50) at Walmart And $45 on Amazon. GameSir just released this budget model in the summer. If you're willing to spend more, the higher-end GameSir G8 Plus Galileo adds remappable back buttons and a few other features; it sells for $59.89 (was $80) at Walmart And $72 on Amazon.
Walmart's G8 Plus discount is listed as a “flash deal,” while Amazon's offer is a limited-time deal with a certain number of units available.
$40 at Walmart | $45 on Amazon (was $50)
The GameSir X5s features ergonomic, textured grips that should be more comfortable for most gamers than the flat grips of the Joy-Con 2. Like other dedicated mobile controllers, the X5s has a retractable jumper and silicone grips to fit devices up to 8.38 inches in size: Switch 2, Switch OLED, Switch, all iPhones, most Android phones, and small tablets.
The X5s features Hall effect joysticks and detachable face buttons so you can switch between Xbox and Nintendo control layouts. Another advanced feature is dual trigger modes. Hall effect triggers can be moved linearly like a regular controller, or you can lock them like quick-fire buttons. Speaking of rapid fire, there is also a turbo function that can be assigned to the face buttons, bumpers or triggers. It also has 6-axis motion control and a regular 4-way D-pad.
Using the free GameSir mobile app, you can adjust the sensitivity of the handle and trigger, as well as the intensity of the dual rumble motors. The controller charges via USB-C and can last up to 12 hours between charges.
Key Features:
- Platforms: Switch 2, Switch, iOS, Android.
- Supports devices up to 8.38 inches diagonal.
- Connects wirelessly via Bluetooth
- 8–12 hours of battery life (charging via USB-C)
- Hall effect wands
- 4-position cross
- Replaceable face buttons
- 6-axis motion control gyro
- Dual vibrating motors
- Two trigger modes:
- Linear Hall effect mode
- Hair trigger mode
- Turbo function
- Ergonomic textured handles.
- Retractable bridge with rubberized base/sides.
- GameSir application settings:
- Adjust stick and trigger sensitivity
- Adjust the rumble intensity
- Create dead zones
- Firmware updates
$59.89 at Walmart | $72 on Amazon (was $80)
The G8 Plus has all the features found in the X5s, but also has two remappable rear buttons, removable bezels, and five interchangeable joystick caps. It also has a larger form factor and supports devices up to 8.46 inches.
I tested the G8 Plus with a Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, and iPhone and was impressed with its performance and ergonomics.
Key Features:
- Platforms: Switch 2, Switch, iOS, Android.
- Supports devices up to 8.46 inches diagonal.
- Connects wirelessly via Bluetooth
- Up to 8 hours of battery life (charging via USB-C)
- Hall effect wands
- 2 reassignable back buttons
- Removable bezels
- 5 replaceable sticks
- Replaceable face buttons
- 6-axis motion control gyro
- Dual vibrating motors
- Two trigger modes
- Ergonomic textured handles.
- Retractable bridge with rubberized base/sides.
In addition to the standard black version, GameSir has two officially licensed versions dedicated to Marvel characters. Green Incredible Hulk Edition available for $90 (was $100) and Thanos edition with gold and purple color scheme – $100.
Ergonomic handles for Nintendo Switch 2
If you're primarily interested in improving the Switch 2's ergonomics in handheld mode, you might want to opt for the detachable handle instead. Since the launch of the Switch 2 in June, the market for ergonomic grips has become quite crowded. My favorite Switch 2 grip at the moment is Dbrand's Killswitch, currently on sale at Best Buy bundled for $80. A screen case is included. Killswitch has separate controller grips with contoured ridges to rest your fingers on. You can still use the console's built-in stand by attaching the case to the back. However, unlike some Switch 2 handles, the Killswitch doesn't allow you to properly secure the console. Luckily, the package includes a Switch 2 Dock Adapter that can be connected to the Nintendo Dock. It's thoughtfully designed and works incredibly well. The travel case also includes storage for 10 game cards.
Another grip I would recommend: Case for vector pen Genki's Attack. I don't think it's as convenient as Dbrand's Killswitch, but it can use the Switch 2's docking station set as usual. It comes with three different pairs of handles that can be changed on the fly to suit your personal preferences. Genki's Attack Vector also comes with a travel case. You can buy it for $60 on Amazon. It's worth noting that Genki also makes thin travel cases called Force field 2 it's 30 dollars.
There are plenty of inexpensive Switch 2 pens on Amazon. Some of them are clearly inspired by Dbrand's Killswitch. For example, BHGift Pen Case ($20) And Timovo Snap-on Case ($14.87) have contoured ridges like Killswitch. For a budget option in the style of Genki's Attack Vector there is Skull & Co. NeoGrip for $30.
JSAUX is another popular budget brand with several good options for $30 or less. Split protective case with travel case costs only $27 (was $30). We've created a special Amazon page where you can see these and other pens side by side.
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