Yes, there are a lot of video game controllers for PC and consoles that use Hall effect sensors to detect the position of the joystick.
Why should you get a controller with Hall Effect sticks?
- they don’t develop stick drift
- they will last you much longer
- they are usually more precise than analog (but it might be different in FPS games)
- they have better 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, also with hall effect keyboard switches.
Which controllers use Hall Effect? Every controller with Hall Effect Joysticks
Here’s a complete list of hall effect controllers. New gamepads keep coming out, so it will be updated.
- Most popular for PC: Gulikit KingKong 2 Pro (Switch, PC; works with Xbox and PS using $20 Goku adapter; January 2024 comes an upgraded KK3 Max controller)
- Best premium controller: Dualsense Edge ($199) / Flydigi Vader 3 Pro ($79)
- Best price, works with Xbox and PC: GameSir G7 SE Wired (Xbox consoles, PC)
- Best for Switch and PC, comes with charging station: 8bitDo Ultimate Bluetooth (Switch, PC; there’s also 2024 wired edition)
- Cheapest (new release, only $25!): Gamesir Nova Lite
- Best for PS5 and PS4: NACON Revolution 5 Pro (PS5, PS4, PC)
- Best for Android/iOS phones: Gamesir G8 Galileo (Android, iOS, honestly it’s fantastic, better than Backbone IMO)
- 8Bitdo Ultimate Wired: second Xbox-licensed controller after Gamesir G7 SE
- 8Bitdo Pro 2 (updated version only, playstation like layout)
- Gamesir T4 Cyclone Pro (Switch, PC)
- Fantech EOS Pro WGP15 (Switch, PC)
- Fantech Nova WGP14 (PC, Playstation layout)
- EasySMX X10 (Switch, PC)
- EasySMX X15 (Switch, PC)
- Flydigi Vader 3 Pro (Switch, PC, back buttons, mapping)
- Flydigi Apex 4 (Switch, PC, even more features than Vader 3)
- Flydigi Direwolf 2 (Switch, PC, cheapest Flydigi with hall effect sensors)
- NYXI Switch Controller (Switch, PC)
- NYXI Hyperion Pro (Switch, PC)
- PB Tails Crush (PC, Switch)
- GameSir T4 Kaleid Wired and Wireless (PC)
- Binbok Gemini (Switch, PC)
- Retroflag Switch Handheld Controller (Switch, PC)
- MOBAPAD Wireless Switch Controller (Switch, PC)
- NexiGo Hall Effect Controller (Switch, PC)
- TERIOS Switch Controller (No Drift) (Switch, PC)
- Leadjoy M1 Mobile Controller for iPhone (iPhone)
Controllers which use both Hall Effect Joysticks and Hall Effect Triggers
- Gulikit KK3 Max (PC, Switch; PS4 and Xbox One/Series with a Goku adapter)
- Flydigi Vader 3 Pro (Switch, PC)
- Gamesir T4 Cyclone Pro (Switch, PC)
- EasySMX X10 (Switch, PC)
- NACON Revolution 5 Pro (PS5, PS4, PC)
- PB Tails Crush (PC, Switch)
- Gamesir G8 Galileo (Android, iOS)
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
- Versatile Compatibility: Supports Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One X/S consoles, and PC Win10 and above (including the Steam game platform).
- Precise Control: Features Hall Joysticks and Hall trigger for comfortable feel, long life, and enhanced gaming accuracy.
- Plug-and-Play Convenience: USB wired connection (detachable) for easy setup and instant gaming without the need for additional drivers.
- Customizable Experience: Includes 2 custom back keys, allowing users to eliminate false triggers and enhance their gaming experience.
- Immersive Gameplay: Offers pulse type vibration trigger motor and asymmetric vibration grip motor for immersive tactile feedback.
Newly released (July 2023) Xbox licensed controller with Hall Sticks and basically the cheapest Hall Effect controller out there. 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. 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 KingKong 2 Pro – the first one
![GuliKit No Stick Drift KingKong 2 Pro Wireless Controller for Switch/Switch OLED, First Bluetooth Controller with Hall Effect Sensing Joystick, No Deadzone, Auto Pilot Gaming, Motion Sense[New Patent]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41sQ9Ko1hcL.jpg "Game Controllers with Hall Effect Joystick Sensors 6")
- [New Patented Stick-No Drifting Ever] GuliKit is the first wireless controller with hall sensor joystick. New Patented Electromagnetic Stick without any drift. Exclusive FPS mode, 100% No Dead Zone. Solving the general painpoint of joystick, and is comprehensively ahead of other mainstream gamepad. Very sensitive and smooth thumbsticks, supported stick sensitivity adjustment. The best alternative switch controller compatible with Switch/ Rog Ally/ Switch OLED, PC, Android IOS and macOS.
Gulikit Kingkong 2 was one of the first controllers using Hall Effect sensors and it’s still great in 2023. It works best with PC, but using a $20 Goku adapter it will also work with Playstation 4, 5 and Xbox One consoles. Also, Kingkong 3 (KK3 Max) is being released in January 2024 with some extra features.
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.
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
- Compatible with Switch and Steam Deck via Bluetooth/2.4g adapter/USB Cable, Windows with a 2.4g adapter/USB Cable.
- Multifunctional Charging Dock – Stable connection and controller will be automatically switching ON/OFF while it is undocked/docked.
- Hall Effect Sensing Joystick
- Ultimate Software on PC and mobile (Android/iOS)
- 2 Pro back paddle buttons, Custom Profile Switch Button, Player indicators & 2-way Mode Switching button.
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.
GameSir T4 Kaleid Controller
- FOUR ULTRA-PERSONALIZED LIGHT EFFECTS: Show your personality with the GameSir T4 Kaleid PC controller. Featuring 4 ultra-personalized light effects, you can perfectly adjust the keyframe, speed, brightness, and the colors of the 5 light beads. This feature allows you to customize the colors and effects of the lights on your controller, elevating your gaming experience and adding some personality.
- HALL EFFECT SENSING STICKS: GameSir T4 Kaleid pc controller features Hall-effect sensing sticks and precisely tuned Hall-effect analog triggers. The durable sticks provides accurate anti-drift glide, provides gamers with an exceptional level of control and precision. Available for games on PC, Switch and Android TV Box.
- HALL EFFECT ANALOG TRIGGERS: This allow for faster response times, smoother gaming, and longer controller life.Whether you’re playing first-person shooters, racing games, or anything in between, gaming controller with Hall Effect triggers will give you the competitive edge you need to dominate the competition.
GameSir T4 Kaleid is very similar to Gamesir G7 SE, but it doesn’t support Xbox consoles – it’s for PC and Switch only. It has a really great price at $41.99. But keep in mind, it’s a wired controller.
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.
- 【Gulikit Electromagnetic Hall Effect Joystick】Gulikit Hall Sensor Joystick specifically designed for Switch 2017, Switch OLED Model 2021 Joycon, Switch Lite; Gulikit Hall joysticks can solve wore, out of control, insensitive and drift.
- 【Hall Effect Sensor Joystick】AKNES Gulikit Switch Joycon Replacement features a higher sensitivity Hall Effect Sensor Joystick that solves the drift problem of ALPS joystick from the root, making it perfect for FPS shooter games. Hall joystick allows players to experience the game better.
- [Universal model] GuliKit New Model Joystick Module: This Stick model is designed for Steam Deck Type A and B.There is a switch on the back of the module that switches between A and B models, allowing you to quickly select the type you need. Navigate to ‘Settings → System → Steam Deck Controller ID’, ‘MEDA’ is Type A, ‘MHDA’ is Type B.
- [No Drift] This Hall Effect Electromagnetic Stick fixes issues like joystick drift, blind spots, dead zones, no click, no centering, broken and loose sticks.
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I have KingKong 2 Pro and it’s a pretty neat, I upgraded from a xbox one controller and you can feel the difference. But the input calibration on steam is a pain in the ass. Quality is great though, I love the grip.
8Bitdo Ulimate is pretty good for me, but make sure to get the Ultimate Bluetooth version, because the Ultimate 2.4G or Ultimate Wireless version on amazon doesn’t have the hall effect sticks. It’s pretty confusing.
its Utimate C
I have the Gulikit controller for some time and here are my thoughts. The Nintendo Mode has significant thumb stick calibration issues in Steam, causing overshooting of the 0,0 coordinate. However, the Windows (X-Input) mode works fine but lacks native gyro support in Steam. In X-Input mode, the error rate is impressively low at 0.6% in the circularity test.
My model didn’t include replacement ABXY buttons for the standard PC/Xbox layout, so I had to order them separately from Walmart. It would be great if Gulikit sold their button kit on Amazon.
The English translation of the manual is poor; fortunately, the online version is better. Their website for downloading firmware and manuals is problematic, with frequent CAPTCHA issues.
Updating firmware can be confusing and requires a Windows PC for some updates. There are two separate firmware updates needed for the most up-to-date device: “CPU1 V1.16” and “NS09 V4.7”.
A significant drawback is that the controller doesn’t remap the Nintendo Share button to the Xbox Share button for Steam detection, which could be highly useful for PC users.
Despite these issues, the controller has an excellent feel and weight. It features a textured grip, rubberized surface, smooth thumbsticks, and a polished steel ring. It’s also great that Gulikit sells “Pro” type replaceable thumbsticks and requires no additional software for configuration.
The Stratus+ being on this list is misleading. Only the triggers are Hall Effect. The joysticks are analog which mean you will be plagued with your usual stick drift issues
Thanks, corrected.