The wireless GameSir G8 Plus controller works with smartphones and the Switch

GameSir’s latest mobile controller has an added bonus — it also works with the Nintendo Switch. In addition to turning iOS and Android smartphones into handheld consoles not dependent on finicky touchscreen controls, the new GameSir G8 Plus can replace the Switch’s Joy-Cons with more ergonomic alternatives that will never succumb to joystick drift.

Unlike many clamp-on gaming controllers for mobile devices that physically connect through a USB-C or Lightning port, the GameSir G8 Plus uses Bluetooth. That’s what allows it to connect to smartphones, tablets, the Switch, and even PCs without requiring users to pick a version with a specific connector.

The tradeoff is that the gamepad relies on a pair of 500mAh rechargeable batteries. That makes it one more accessory you’ll need to remember to charge, and one that will add almost 314 grams to whatever you clamp it to.

The GameSir G8 Plus also features drift-resistant Hall effect sensors in its joysticks and analog triggers, ensuring gamers will never experience unwanted button presses or movements. The triggers can be switched to a “Hair Trigger Mode” making them more responsive for FPS players.

Motion controls are supported thanks to a six-axis gyroscope, while haptic feedback is provided by a pair of vibration motors. The G8 Plus can even wake the Switch with a single button press, which is a feature that many third-party controllers don’t offer.

Gamers can customize the G8 Plus using interchangeable magnetic faceplates and swappable button caps.

Image: GameSir

The controller’s clamping mechanism can expand to 215 millimeters to accommodate larger smartphones and tablets like the iPad Mini. It’s also customizable with magnetic faceplates that easily pop off and swappable caps for the joysticks and face buttons. It’s a nice feature for gamers who like to personalize their hardware, but only when alternative faceplates are actually available. The company says those are still in planning.

The mobile controller can be used to play PC games over Bluetooth or directly connected with a USB-C cable for less lag.

Image: GameSir

Bluetooth support allows the GameSir G8 Plus to connect to a PC and be used as a standalone wireless controller without a mobile device attached. Gamers wanting less lag can instead opt for a direct connection to a computer using a USB-C cable.

The GameSir G8 Plus is available now for $79.99. That’s cheaper than the $99.99 Backbone One and the same price as a pack of replacement Joy-Cons that can potentially still develop joystick drift.

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