Game controllers with hall effect joystick sensors

Yes, there are video game controllers that use Hall effect sensors to detect the position of the joystick or thumbstick.

Hall effect joysticks several advantages over traditional potentiometer-based joystick controllers, they are more durabe and have a longer lifespan, greater accuracy and precision, they don’t develop stick drift and have excellent deadzones.

Hall effect sensors previously were typically used in high-end joysticks in flight simulators or in industrial applications, but slowly they’re making their way into gaming.

Which controllers use Hall Effect? Every controller with Hall Effect Sticks

• Gulikit KingKong 2 Pro (model: NS09, also known as Zen Pro)
• 8bitDo Ultimate Bluetooth (Wired edition doesn’t have hall sensors!)
• NYXI Switch Controller
• GameSir T4 Kaleid Wired and Wireless
• Retroflag Switch Handheld Controller
• MOBAPAD Wireless Switch Controller
• NexiGo Hall Effect Controller
• TERIOS Switch Controller (No Drift)

Hall Effect vs analog joysticks

Hall effect sensors and analog joysticks are both commonly used in game controllers, but they function differently and have their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Analog joysticks, also known as ALPS and potentiometer-based joysticks, use a variable resistor to detect the position of the joystick. The joystick is connected to a set of potentiometers, which are electrical devices that can be used to measure the position of the joystick by measuring the resistance. Analog joysticks are relatively simple and inexpensive to manufacture, which is why they are commonly found in standard game controllers. They also provide a good level of precision and control for basic gaming needs.

Hall effect sensors, on the other hand, use the Hall effect phenomenon to detect the position of the joystick. A small magnet is attached to the joystick and a Hall effect sensor is used to measure the voltage generated by the magnetic field. Hall effect sensors are more durable and have a longer lifespan than potentiometer-based joysticks, and they are also more accurate and precise. They are also more resistant to harsh environments.

GameSir G7 SE

Newly released (July 2023) Xbox licensed controller with Hall Sticks. It’s the best alternative to a regular Xbox One controller, but with Hall sensors. Main issue with this one is the fact it’s wired. No information about a wireless version. It’s well priced and works with Xbox out-of-the-box, no adapters needed.

Here’s my stick drift test for Xbox Series Wireless Controller and Gamesir G7 SE. Both controllers are brand new.

GuliKit Hall Effect Sensing Joystick – KingKong 2 Pro

GuliKit is a company that specializes in making gaming accessories, including controllers and joysticks. The GuliKit Hall Effect Sensing Joystick is a gaming accessory that utilizes their own patented Hall effect sensors to detect the position of the joystick and it re. This technology allows for precise and accurate control of the cursor or character on the screen, making it suitable for gaming applications where high precision is required.

What sets this controller apart is this patented technology Hall sensor that eliminates stick drift:

• Exclusive FPS mode, 100% No Dead Zone on a stick, especially fits FPS games on Windows PC for fast aiming.
• The use of permanent magnet materials and electromagnetic linear Hall technology effectively eliminates joystick drifting.
• A new patented button has been introduced, featuring a special steel ring on the joystick for excellent conductive rubber feel.

What’s interesting is that Gulikit has collaborated with the 8bitdo company, allowing them to use their patented Hall Effect sensors in their 8bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth controller. Both are excellent options if you’re seeking a Hall Effect controller, with the primary differences being the design and feel in the user’s hand.

The KingKong 2 Pro Wireless joystick is designed to be compatible with a wide range of devices, including Switch, PC, Android, MacOS and IOS devices. It connects to the device via Bluetooth and has a built-in rechargeable battery which can be charged via a USB cable. It also has a working time up to 20 hours.

The joystick also has a number of buttons, including a D-pad, four face buttons, two shoulder buttons, and two triggers, which can be customized through the accompanying software. The software allows the user to adjust settings such as button mapping, vibration intensity, and the Hall Effect Calibration.

The controller isn’t compatible with Xbox consoles unfortunately, but you can fix that with a rather costly ($45) Brook Wingman XB Converter. It makes the controller compatible with Playstation consoles too.

There is also a $10 cheaper alternative: non-Pro version of the controller, named just KingKong 2. What’s included in KingKong 2 Pro, but not in KingKong 2?

• Amiibo on Switch mode
• Stick sensitivity setting
• ZL-ZR sensitivity setting
• Auto-Pilot Game (APG) recording for 10 minutes instead of 10 seconds
• PC/Android motion sense aim assist

If you don’t need these features, then it’s worth to pick up that regular version.

8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller with hall effect

8Bitdo’s Ultimate Bluetooth is a wireless controller that utilizes the exact same Hall Effect sensors as Gulikit for precise joystick positioning. The controller is designed with a retro style, it is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch.

The Ultimate Bluetooth controller uses Bluetooth technology to connect to devices wirelessly, which eliminates the need for a USB cable. It also has a built-in rechargeable battery which can be charged via a USB cable, and it has a battery life of up to 18 hours.

The controller features a Hall effect joystick which provides high precision and durability. It also has a number of buttons, including a D-pad, four face buttons, two shoulder buttons, and two triggers, which can be customized through the 8Bitdo Ultimate software. This software allows the user to adjust settings such as button mapping, vibration intensity, and the Hall Effect Calibration.

To make it compatible with Xbox or Playstation consoles you need to additionally buy a $20 8Bitdo Wireless USB Adapter 2.

In summary, 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth controller is a wireless controller that utilizes Hall Effect sensors for precise joystick positioning, it is designed with a retro style, it is compatible with a wide range of devices, and it can be customized through the 8Bitdo Ultimate software.

8Bitdo Hall Effect Calibration

8Bitdo also have a product called the 8Bitdo Ultimate software, which allows users to customize the settings of their 8Bitdo controllers. The Ultimate software includes a feature called Hall Effect Calibration, which is specifically designed for controllers that use Hall effect sensors to detect the position of the joystick or thumbstick.

The Hall Effect Calibration feature allows users to adjust the sensitivity of the Hall effect sensors in the controller, which can be useful if the controller is not responding correctly or if the user wants a more precise level of control. With this feature, users can adjust the joystick dead zones, adjust the joystick response curve and adjust the joystick center point.

The 8Bitdo Ultimate software also allows users to customize other settings such as button mapping and vibration intensity, as well as update the firmware of the controller. The software is compatible with a wide range of 8Bitdo controllers, including the 8Bitdo SF30 Pro and the 8Bitdo SN30 Pro+.

GameSir T4 Kaleid Controller

Shifting gears a little, another controller that’s been making waves is the GameSir T4 Kaleid. Freshly launched in 2023, this wired-only controller is an interesting addition to our roundup, especially with a wallet-friendly price tag of $41.99. Armed with GameSir’s distinctive hall effect sensors, the T4 Kaleid has managed to make its mark in a competitive market already boasting contenders like the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth and Gulikit KingKong 2 Pro. But keep in mind, it’s a wired controller.

The T4 Kaleid boasts an array of improvements compared to its predecessor, the G7. Despite some minor initial speedbumps, it’s been quick to cement its place as a reliable contender. Gaming is a joy with the hall effect sticks, although to maximize comfort, investing in aftermarket thumb grips may be beneficial. The D-Pad is a step up from the G7’s, and the ABXY buttons feel snappier, adding to the overall gaming experience.

While it does have a chunkier design, the ergonomics make for comfortable usage even during marathon gaming sessions. Priced competitively, it’s a quality choice for gamers seeking a solid wired controller with two back buttons and devoid of trigger stops.

June 2023 Update: Hall Effect sticks have gotten so much attention that there are a lot of new options available now. We still recommend Gulikit and 8BitDo as they are established brands and we have used their products with no issues.

Upgrade your Steam Deck or Switch Controller

Gulikit also produces Switch and Steam Deck controller joystick replacements with hall effect sensors.

These are great if you want to upgrade your old joycons. Because they have hall effect sensors instead of potentiometer there is no wear, because no physical contact occurs and they should last a lot longer than all the standard joysticks.