a true rival to the Xbox controller

Third-party controllers like the Razer Wolverine and GameSir Tarantula Pro are genuine rivals to OEM alternatives for PC gaming because of their quality construction and innovative features. I was excited to get my hands on the GameSir Cyclone 2 because it takes styling cues from the Xbox controller, like similar asymmetrical sticks and button placement, while adding some unique twists to distinguish itself as something different.

The comfortable shape feels like home, and while it won’t work on the Xbox console, it offers cross-platform compatibility on PC, Switch, iOS, and Android. I tested it with various games on my PC and Android phone to test its performance and features and determine if it can rival the best controller in the business.

Editor’s Choice

GameSir Cyclone 2

GameSir’s Cyclone 2 is a multiplatform controller that connects to a PC, Android, iOS, or the Nintendo Switch via Bluetooth, 2.4G, or a USB cable. It has a similar shape to an Xbox controller and adds extra features like adjustable triggers, TMR switches, and a charging stand.

Brand

GameSir

Platform

Windows/Nintendo Switch/Android/iOS

Battery

860mAh

Connectivity

Bluetooth, 2.4G, Wired

Headset Support

3.5mm audio

Programmable

Yes

Extra Buttons

Two extra buttons

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Price, availability, and specs

The latest tech in a comfortable shape

The GamSir Cyclone 2 connects via a 2.4G USB dongle, Bluetooth, or a USB-C to USB-A cable if you need to charge it while playing. Power is supplied by an 860mAh battery, which lasted around eight hours in testing with the RGB lighting and rumble features activated. Unlike most controllers, it has an aluminum charging station that doubles as a stand. The stand took up minimal space on my desk, and I liked that I could place the controller on the cradle, and it would automatically charge when I was done playing.

Performance is excellent from the responsive TMR sticks, which eliminate drift using the latest electromagnetic technology and have no moving parts to accelerate wear and tear. The ABXY buttons and rear paddles feel durable and have a satisfying clicky feel. I enjoyed tinkering with the rear paddles, which are easily mappable to my keyboard or mouse buttons via the GameSir Connect app to recharge health and activate special abilities in my games.

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The toggle triggers are my standout feature on the Cyclone 2. Each trigger has a physical switch attached to it to change between the hair trigger and analog modes. The hair trigger mode is perfect for online shooters because it shortens the trigger pull for an instant response when firing. The analog mode is better for racing games because it lengthens the pull length so you can control the revs when driving. GameSir’s transparent triggers are a cool touch because you can view the internals and see how the switches work.

The Cyclone 2 is available in Black or White. My white test unit has a semi-translucent finish, lit by subtle four-zone RGB lighting. GameSir Connect makes it easy to adjust the lighting colors or add presets like Flow, Rainbow, and Pulse. The app also lets you individually adjust the left and right grip rumble levels or turn them off if you don’t want to use them.

What I like about the GameSir Cyclone 2

User-friendliness and simplicity

My PC automatically detected the controller, and it was ready to go in seconds after I plugged in the wireless dongle. It immediately worked with Steam and GameSir Connect without requiring any software updates or configuration settings. After testing numerous controllers, I appreciated the Cyclone 2’s easy plug-and-play setup because I could get straight into my games without wasting time trying to get it working. It was the same on Android, and my phone instantly detected the Cyclone 2 and connected to it via Bluetooth.

I also liked that the Cyclone 2 has the same comfortable shape and other advantages of the Xbox controller while adding subtle changes to improve its usability. Stick drift has become a thing of the past because of TMR technology, and you don’t need to worry about changing those pesky double AAs because of the built-in battery. The grips have better texturing, and there are extra rear paddles and quick-switch adjustable triggers to improve your gaming.

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It might not seem like a big deal, but the included stand/charging station adds impressive value and convenience to the Cyclone 2. The stand has a modern design with a sturdy aluminum base and a USB-C charging port. It gives your setup a clean aesthetic because you can leave your controller in a safe place to charge without worrying about connecting and disconnecting cables. There’s also a USB-A port, which is handy for storing the wireless dongle to prevent it from getting lost.

Customization goes a long way to improving a controller experience. I enjoyed fine-tuning the Cyclone 2 Pros performance with the user-friendly GameSir Connect app, which divides the triggers, stick, lighting, and other features onto different pages to keep things simple. It lets you change the report rate, adjust the stick and trigger sensitivity, and remap the buttons. You can save your settings in up to four profiles for different games when you’re done.

What I don’t like about the GameSir Cyclone 2

More backlighting, please

My only issue with the Cyclone 2 Pro is its lack of backlighting around the ABXY buttons. The RGB lighting shining through the case somewhat mitigates the issue, but I’d still like individual backlighting for each button to improve visibility when playing in the dark.

It would significantly add to not only the aesthetic but also just improve overall visibility. However, it really doesn’t impact the function at all, so it’s a really forgettable qualm.

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Should you buy the GameSir Cyclone 2?

It’s an easy decision

I think the Cyclone 2 is absolutely worth your dollar because it adds the latest tech into a familiar shape that most gamers love. It’s a legitimate challenger to the Xbox controller for PC and mobile gaming because it comes at around the same price while improving the design and adding extras like a charging stand.

Using the Cyclone 2 for competitive PC games like Naraka Bladepoint and Marvel Rivals on PC was terrific because of its fast response time and hair triggers. It also improved my gameplay on mobile titles like Street Fighter IV CE and Real Racing 3 because of its precision and arcade-like feel.

Editor’s Choice

GameSir Cyclone 2

GameSir’s Cyclone 2 Pro is a multiplatform controller that connects to a PC, Android, iOS, or the Nintendo Switch via Bluetooth, 2.4G, or a USB cable. It has a similar shape to an Xbox controller and adds extra features like adjustable triggers, TMR switches, and a charging stand.

Brand

GameSir

Platform

Windows/Nintendo Switch/Android/iOS

Battery

860mAh

Connectivity

Bluetooth, 2.4G, Wired

Headset Support

3.5mm audio

Programmable

Yes

Extra Buttons

Two extra buttons

Expand

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