GameSir X2s Mobile Gaming Controller Review: The Perfect Way to Game on the Go

When you’ve got a craving for mobile gaming, everyone knows playing using a virtual joystick on your smartphone screen is a drag. That’s why the GameSir X2s Mobile Gaming Controller with USB-C connector is key for those who want to game well on the go. Retailing for $45.99, it’s a great budget option for those who don’t have deep pockets.

The GameSir X2s Mobile Gaming Controller with Type-C USB adapter is honestly really adorable, themed after the classic Super Nintendo controller style with a gray body and light purple buttons.

It’s compatible with any USB-C mobile phone, including Android and iPhone. The X2s also supports cloud gaming and remote play, like using the PlayStation Remote Play app, Amazon Luna, NVIDIA GeForce Now, Steam Link, etc.

The controller includes everything you need for the latest games, like dual joysticks, L and R shoulder buttons, and L and R triggers so you can play modern-day first-person shooters like Call of Duty, etc. The Joysticks are rated for up to 5 million cycles to never drift using non-contact magnetic sensors.

The GameSir X2s Mobile Gaming Controller’s triggers are analog with accuracy up to 0.1mm, which is great for racing games or shooters. The square button allows you to toggle between hair trigger and analog, and it also allows you to use the turbo function, which is a nice feature.

The USB-C port tilts up and down, allowing you to get your phone in and out without breaking the adapter. The port also allows the controller to fit phones of different sizes, with or without phone cases.

That said, unless you have a very thin phone case, it will likely not fit in the GameSir X2s Mobile Gaming Controller.

I have an iPhone 15 Pro Max and have to take my phone case off before using it; even so, while my phone is installed, it feels nice and snug, thanks to the soft cushioning around the edges. Not only that, but the cushioning is wrapped around the back of the controller to make it feel comfortable in your hands.

GameSir was kind enough to send us a review sample, and I have really been enjoying pulling it out on my train commute in and out of New York City.

I’ve been playing a lot of Call of Duty: Warzone recently, and the downtime on my commute allowed me to feed my video game addiction a little more without sacrificing gameplay due to a terrible on-screen joystick or buttons.

I instantly noticed how much better I played with the GameSir X2s Mobile Gaming Controller compared to the touchscreen alone, and my many wins were a testament to that.

The buttons feel great and very clicky, and you can tell they’re very responsive. The joysticks work really well; there is zero drift, and the triggers are perfectly balanced. The controller extends to hold larger phones, even my iPhone 15 Pro Max, which is one of the largest on the market.

Honestly, it’s a really great way to play games on the go. The new processors that mobile phones are made with these days make for pretty good gaming consoles, and a mobile controller like the GameSir X2s is the perfect way to take advantage of that.

The GameSir X2s Mobile Gaming Controller weighs only 0.38 pounds, so it’s easy to throw in a bag and take with you. I highly recommend it to any mobile gamer looking for a wallet-friendly way to keep the games going.

The GameSir X2s Mobile Gaming Controller sells for $45.99, available directly from the manufacturer.

Source: Manufacturer Supplied review sample

What I Like: Comfortable feel; Fits many USB-C phones; Responsive buttons; Works really well; Great price

What Needs Improvement: I would love to be able to fit my phone into the controller without having to remove the case