Xbox Cloud Gaming without a controller is limited. The GameSir X2 Pro removes constraints for comfortable, on-the-go gaming, despite certain design issues and smartphone idiosyncrasies.
GameSir enhanced the Cloud Gaming experience with the X2 Pro so gamers can play Xbox Game Pass titles on the go. Built particularly for Xbox gaming, the X2 has all the face and trigger buttons of a conventional Xbox controller at half the size. It fits most USB-C compatible Android devices.
Larger-handed gamers may find the GameSir X2 Pro‘s tiny buttons challenging to use, but it’s a big improvement over touch controls. The X2 Pro gives a generally comfortable portable gaming experience, whether you’re playing Call of Duty Mobile or Gears 5.
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Lightweight But Flawed
The GameSir X2 Pro controls your screen since the Xbox Cloud Gaming programme runs on your phone. The X2 doesn’t have a power source other than the USB-C connection to your Android device. The lack of a battery also allows for a lightweight design. Less weight in your hands while gaming prevents tiredness and makes the machine more portable.
The controller’s button sizes and designs are flawed. The half-size face buttons and D-pad were a problem when playing Mortal Kombat. Unintentional button presses were more frequent than with a normal controller.
First-person shooters, which had fewer combos, were less affected. Triggers and bumpers were responsive in Halo: Infinite. They may feel fragile and inexpensive, but they support tactile feedback.
While some buttons, like the D-pad and triggers, feel cheap, the controller is otherwise well-made. The thumbsticks use ALPS 3D joysticks for smooth movement, and each bumper has a Kailh microswitch.
The X2 Pro expands on a spring to fit a variety of phones. Smaller phones look goofy in cradles, but my Pixel 6 Pro fit right in. Regardless of size, the USB-C socket and rubber grip kept the phone in place.
Comfort Controls
GameSir packed the X2 Pro with controls. On the face are two ALPS joysticks, which are good but stiff. It feels like I have to apply more pressure than usual, which might throw off a game. Adding the concave thumbstick caps improves my grip and eliminates that feeling.
The Hall Effect triggers are also an improvement over the previous version, allowing for degrees of input rather than one click. You can modify pressure, making racing games easier to play. On the back, Kalih micro switches replaced the bumpers. They have good travel and are good for cloud gaming.
There’s also an Xbox-branded button that opens the Game Pass Xbox menu. Quickly invite friends and exit the game with a tap. Opposite it is a useful screenshot button. Direct device connection minimises latency. My only lag was from cloud-streamed games. Local play was lag-free.
While all the gear performs well and feels excellent to use, comfort was an issue during cloud gaming.
Compact and comfortable seem at odds. The GameSir X2 Pro is designed to be as light and portable as possible. This sacrifices some comfort.
My biggest complaint is the right joystick’s grip, not its action. Because the joystick is so low and near to where my palm rests, I end up with hand cramps.
Given the compact form factor, there isn’t much room for the thumbstick, so I have to stretch it to my palm and pinky simultaneously. The remainder of the GameSir X2 Pro feels great and the left thumbstick is in a regular location, but because it emulates an Xbox controller without as much room, the left thumbstick is too close for games like Powerwash Simulator.
GameSir App Purchase/Leave
The X2 Pro interacts with the GameSir app to alter layouts, map back buttons, and access mobile-friendly games. It’s nothing unusual, and when I changed controller settings, it was slow. The software provides troubleshooting advice if you encounter problems. If you don’t want to download another app, you may find much of this information online.
If you’re using Xbox Cloud Gaming or another cloud service, you won’t require GameSir. It’s necessary for complete X2 Pro functioning and on-phone troubleshooting.
GameSir X2 Pro-Xbox Mobile Controller: Buy or Not?
Running AAA Game Pass titles on a mobile device over the cloud is insane, but it doesn’t work properly without the right peripherals. Gears 5 on a touchscreen is a nightmare, making adaptors like GameSir’s X2 Pro crucial for mobile cloud gaming.
It’s tiny and battery-free, making it convenient to travel with. Plug ‘n play reduces setup hassles, giving you more time in-game and less time with Bluetooth and other wireless connections.
Larger face buttons would improve the experience. The triggers and D-pad seem cheap, but they’re responsive. Improving their quality would just make you less fearful about breaking them.
The X2 Pro isn’t the only mobile cloud controller, but it’s the finest I’ve used. GameSir’s approach is better than RiotPWR Cloud Gaming Controller for iOS (Xbox Edition). RiotPWR places the phone on an arm grip that sits on the front of a flimsier Xbox controller. The X2’s steadiness is a major selling factor.
It didn’t take long for me to get used to the X2’s layout and grip. The size is perfect, however I tyre faster than with a regular controller. However, you won’t be cloud gaming for long. If unplugged, your phone will either overheat or die.
The GameSir X2 Pro is the best peripheral for mobile cloud gaming.
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