BINBOK Gemini Controller: Review

I love testing Hall Effect controllers, so I was happy that Binbok sent me their newest controller with Hall Effect joysticks for a review. It’s cheap at $39.99 and it’s got plenty of features.

You can get the Binbok Gemini Gamepad from:

Unboxing and First Impressions

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Packaged in a sleek box, the packaging included the controller itself, a USB Type-C cable sporting the BINBOK logo and a straightforward manual.

Choosing the black version for my review, the controller’s glossy transparent plastic front immediately caught my attention. Its RGB lighting, visible even before turning the device on.

There’s also a white version, but it’s got a very weird mix of colors, but maybe you’d like it.

Ergonomics and Build Quality

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Replicating the ergonomics of the official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, the BINBOK Gemini felt comfortably familiar in my hands. The inclusion of dual Rumble Motors, customizable RGB lighting circling the controller, and the mechanical switches for the D-pad elevated my initial impression.

However, not everything was perfect. I noticed minor quality control issues, such as the left stick lightly brushing against the controller shell. This wasn’t a deal-breaker by any means but highlighted room for improvement in manufacturing consistency.

Connectivity and Features

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Pairing with the Switch was very easy, and there’s the controller’s ability to wake up the console. The main features of the controller include:

  • Customizable RGB lighting which looks pretty good, I haven’t seen that many black controllers with RGB.
  • Hall Effect Analog Sticks work well, I would say they’re somewhat similar to Gamesir’s G7 SE, I haven’t had any issues with them and they are promising the lack of stick drift which is a must for a Switch controllers, as I have already lost 3 original Switch controllers due to sticks drifting.
  • Remappable back buttons are great to have if you need them for your gaming needs.

The hallmark of the BINBOK Gemini, however, was its hall effect joysticks. Ditching the direct contact found in conventional joysticks for a magnet-based sensor system virtually eliminated the risk of dreaded joystick drift.

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Gaming Performance

I put the BINBOK Gemini through its paces with a variety of Nintendo Switch titles, from the precise controls required in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom to the frenetic action of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.

  • Zelda: In Tears of the Kingdom, the added back buttons allowed for seamless weapon swaps-a godsend during intense combat moments. The game’s expansive environment also provided ample opportunity to test the gyro sensor, which responded with surprising precision.
  • Smash Bros.: Here, the responsiveness of the D-pad and analog sticks was paramount. Inputs felt accurate, and despite rapid, repeated use, the controller maintained its reliability. The tactile feedback from the mechanical switches added a satisfying depth to every action.

And here’s the PC test with polling rate and latency from Gamepad Tester:

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  • Polling rate: stable 125Hz
  • Average latency: 8ms

Aesthetic and Customization

The BINBOK Gemini shines – not just literally with its RGB lighting but also in its capacity for personalization. Switching between rumble modes and adjusting the lighting to match my gaming ambiance was delightful, enhancing the immersive quality of each session.

Final Verdict

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So, what’s the final word on the BINBOK Gemini? For the price, it’s a pretty good. It has some minor flaws, sure – but the positives far outweigh them. If you’re looking for a Pro Controller alternative that’s cheap, is comfortable and has Hall Effect sticks, this is it.

Overall Rating: 8/10

Pros of the BINBOK Gemini Controller

  1. Hall Effect Joysticks: Utilizes Hall Effect sensors to reduce the risk of joystick drift significantly, promising a longer lifespan for accurate gameplay.
  2. D-Pad: Really well done there, very comfortable and good for fighting games.
  3. Customizable Rumble: Offers the ability to toggle between different rumble modes, allowing players to fine-tune their force feedback experience.
  4. RGB Lighting: Comes with customizable and visually appealing RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic flair to gaming setups.
  5. Remappable Back Buttons: Features back buttons that can be reprogrammed for custom inputs, enhancing gameplay efficiency and convenience.
  6. Ergonomic Design: Mimics the comfortable ergonomics of the original Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, making it easy on the hands during extended gaming sessions.
  7. Seamless Connectivity: Can wake up the Nintendo Switch console directly, offering seamless integration with the system.
  8. Affordable Price: Priced competitively, providing a feature-rich alternative to the more expensive Nintendo Switch Pro Controller at a fraction of the cost.
  9. Durable Build Quality: Despite some minor inconsistencies, the overall build quality is solid, ensuring the controller can withstand regular use.
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Cons of the BINBOK Gemini Controller

  1. Joystick rims: I’m not a fan of the feeling then the sticks touch the rims of the controller.
  2. Stiff Face Buttons: The face buttons can feel slightly harder to press than those on the Switch controller, which might affect responsiveness for some players.
  3. Glossy Finish: The glossy transparent plastic on the front of the controller is prone to fingerprint marks and dust, requiring frequent cleaning to maintain its appearance.
  4. Minor Quality Control Issues: Some units may have slight manufacturing inconsistencies, such as joystick alignment, though this may not affect all controllers.
  5. Lacks Amiibo Support: Does not include NFC functionality for Amiibo, which might be a dealbreaker for players who frequently use Amiibo in their games.
  6. No Official X-Input Support for PC: While it works on PC, it’s detected only as a Switch Pro Controller by default, potentially limiting compatibility with certain games unless additional software or adapters are used.
Marcus Richardson
Editor-in-chief

I love testing and writing about new tech. I focus on keyboards and controllers. I'm also a gamer and an engineer. Check out my Twitter for keyboard and controller news and reviews.

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