Gamer’s two versatile mobile controllers for smartphones, 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, longer sticks and larger buttons than the Joy-Con 2 controllers. The Gamer X5S is discounted to $40 ($50) at Walmart and $45 at Amazon. GameSir just launched this budget-friendly model during the summer. If you’re willing to spend more, the higher-end GameSir G8 Plus Galileo adds a repositionable back button and a few other features. It sells for $59.89 ($80) at Walmart and $72 at Amazon.
Walmart’s G8 Plus discount is listed as a “flash deal,” and Amazon’s offer is a limited-time deal with a limited number of units available.
$40 at Walmart | $45 (was $50) at Amazon
The GameSir X5S has ergonomic, textured handles that are more comfortable for most players than the flat Joy-Con 2’s grip. Like other dedicated mobile controllers, the X5S features an extension bridge and silicone pad to cradle devices measuring up to 8.38 inches: Switch 2, Switch OLED, Switch, all iPhones, most Android phones and small tablets.
The X5S is equipped with hall effect sticks and has removable face buttons, so you can switch between Xbox and Nintendo control layouts. Another advanced feature is the dual trigger modes. Hall effect triggers can move linearly like a regular controller, or you can lock them as rapid fire buttons. Speaking of rapid fire, there’s also a turbo function that can be assigned to face buttons, bumpers or triggers. It also has 6-axis motion control and a traditional, 4-way D-pad.
With Gamesair’s free mobile app, you can adjust stick and trigger sensitivity, 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:
- Platform: Switch 2, Switch, iOS, Android
- Devices up to 8.38 inches
- Connects wirelessly via Bluetooth
- 8-12 hours of battery life (USB-C charging)
- Hall effect sticks
- 4-way d-pad
- Changeable face buttons
- 6 axis gyro motion controls
- Dual rumble motors
- Two trigger modes:
- Hall effect linear mode
- Hair trigger mode
- Turbo function
- Ergonomic, textured grip
- Extended bridge with rubber base/sides
- Gamesare App Customizations:
- Adjust the stick and trigger sensitivity
- Adjust the rumble intensity
- Create a dead zone
- Firmware update
at walmart. 59.89 | $72 (was $80) on Amazon
The G8 Plus has all the features found on the X5s, but also has two repositionable back buttons, removable faceplates, and comes with five interchangeable stick tops. It also has a large form factor of up to 8.46 inches and rear devices.
I’ve tested the G8 Plus with a Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, and iPhone and was impressed with its performance and ergonomics.
Key Features:
- Platform: Switch 2, Switch, iOS, Android
- Supports devices up to 8.46 inches
- Connects wirelessly via Bluetooth
- Up to 8 hours of battery life (USB-C charging)
- Hall effect sticks
- 2 resettable back buttons
- Removable faceplates
- 5 exchange sticks
- Changeable face buttons
- 6 axis gyro motion controls
- Dual rumble motors
- Two trigger modes
- Ergonomic, textured grip
- Extended bridge with rubber base/sides
In addition to the standard black version, Gamer has two officially licensed editions themed around Marvel characters. The Green Incredible Hulk Edition is available for $90 (was $100), and the Thanos Edition with a gold and purple color scheme is $100.
Nintendo Switch 2 Ergonomic Grip
If you’re primarily interested in improving the Switch 2’s ergonomics in handheld mode, you can opt for an attachable grip instead. Since the Switch 2’s June launch, the market for ergonomic grips has become quite crowded. My favorite Switch 2 grip by far is Debrand’s clutch, now sold at Best Buy for $80 in a bundle that comes with a cover for the screen. The clutch has an individual controller grip to rest your fingers. You can still use the console’s built-in kickstand with the shell attached to the back. Unlike some Switch 2 grips, however, the clutch prevents you from docking the console normally. Fortunately, it comes with a Switch 2 dock adapter that connects to Nintendo’s dock set. It is cleverly designed and works incredibly well. The travel cover also has an attachment to store 10 game cards.
Another grip I recommend is Junkie’s Assault Vector grip case. I don’t think it’s as comfortable as Debrand’s clutch, but it can use the Switch 2 dock like normal. It comes with three different pairs of grips that can be changed on the fly to fit your personal preference. Junkie’s attack vector also comes with a travel cover. You can buy it on Amazon for $60. It’s worth noting that Genki also makes a slim travel cover grip called the Force Field 2 that’s $30.
There are plenty of budget-friendly Switch 2 grips on Amazon. Some of them are clearly inspired by Dibrand’s cloche. For example, the BHGIFT Dockable Grip Case ($20) and the Timo Dockable Grip Case ($14.87) have made their way to Kilwich. For a budget option in the style of Junkie’s attack vectors, the Skull & Co. NewGrip is $30.
JSAUX is another popular budget brand that has some good options for $30 or less. A split protective case with travel cover is only $27 (was $30). We put together a custom Amazon page where you can see these grips and others side-by-side.
Sign up for GameSpot’s weekly deals newsletter:
