The GameSir X2s controller weighs only 171 grams (about 6 ounces), and thanks to its relatively compact profile (177 x 84.36 x 37.53 mm), it’s easy to carry it anywhere. I often slid it in the side pocket of my trousers and backpack, without having to worry about space constraints. But more importantly, it’s a joy to hold in hands. It’s one of the slimmest controllers out there, with a thickness that is about one-fourth over the Nintendo Switch Lite’s analog-tip-to-button depth.
The action button layout follows the Xbox format, while the overall twin-stick 16-button design is identical to the Nintendo Switch Lite. You get a cross-style D-pad here, instead of the radial one on the GameSir X2 that allowed easy diagonal movements. It’s a bit plasticky and a tad tiny for people with large hands, but I found it just about the right size for me. It’s decidedly plasticky and fairly resistive but works well with clicks, even though pressing two buttons for diagonal input is a bit awkward.
Nadeem Sarwar/SlashGear
The biggest draw on the functional side is the Hall Effect joysticks. These magnetically driven switches offer respite from the dreaded drift, deliver much better longevity than contact-based sticks, and happen to be more accurate, as well. The sticks on the GameSir X2s performed admirably, allowing smooth movement and actuation. The company has also put a Hall Effect array behind the trigger buttons, which can also be customized for input depth.
There are microswitches behind the shoulder buttons and they provide satisfying clicky feedback. You also get four additional buttons, one each dedicated to screenshot, home, select, and start functions. Aside from their desired role, they also come in handy for enabling turbo shortcuts.
