Gamesir Cyclone 2: Review

I recently got my hands on the new GameSir Cyclone 2 controller, which just hit the market. While everyone’s eagerly waiting for the G7 Pro Controller release, GameSir surprised us with this new addition. And after a few hours of testing, I can confidently say this controller has some interesting features that make it stand out. Here’s a quick rundown of my first experience with it.

Design & Comfort

The Cyclone 2 is comfortable to hold, especially if you have smaller hands like mine. The size is a bit more compact compared to the GameSir G7 Special Edition, which I’ve been using daily. It feels lightweight, and the grippy texture on both the front and back adds to the comfort during long gaming sessions. However, the plastic material feels slightly cheaper, but it doesn’t affect the overall performance.

The controller comes in two colors: Phantom White and Shadow Black. It also includes a phone attachment on the back, which seems to hint at future mobile gaming compatibility.

TMR Joysticks & Face Buttons

One of the main highlights of the Cyclone 2 is its use of TMR sticks (Mag-Res™ Technology), the same ones used in the Tarant model. These sticks combine the accuracy of traditional potentiometers with the durability of Hall Effect technology. The result? The sticks are incredibly precise, which I noticed right away when playing fast-paced games like Rocket League. They definitely feel more accurate than the standard Hall Effect sticks on other controllers.

The face buttons and the D-pad are mechanical, providing a satisfying clicky feel. The tactile feedback is solid and makes rapid button presses much more responsive. This is great for games that require quick inputs, like fighting or rhythm games.

Triggers & Bumpers

Cyclone 2 features analog triggers that can be adjusted with built-in trigger stops. You can easily switch between analog mode for racing games or enable the clicky stops for a faster response in shooters. This versatility adds a layer of customization, depending on your gaming needs. The bumpers are pretty standard but do their job well.

Connectivity & Compatibility

This controller is highly versatile when it comes to connectivity. It supports tri-mode connections: wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless, making it compatible with multiple platforms like Switch, PC, iOS, and Android. The package also includes a USB dongle, which I found useful for a quick plug-and-play setup on my PC. The 1000Hz polling rate is another plus. Wired latency is around 2-3ms which is superb.

Extra Features & Customization

Cyclone 2 comes with a few extra features that enhance the gaming experience. The asymmetric rumble motors provide immersive vibration feedback, and the built-in 6-axis gyroscope is perfect for motion controls on Switch games. Additionally, the customizable RGB lighting is a nice touch for those who like a bit of flair in their gaming setup.

Using the GameSir Connect app, you can tweak various settings, like joystick calibration, button mapping, and trigger sensitivity. The app is straightforward and offers many options, similar to the T Pro model but with more customization features.

Charging & Battery Life

The controller comes with a sleek aluminum alloy charging stand, which is a nice bonus. It connects seamlessly to the stand and includes a 1-meter USB cable for easy charging. The built-in 860mAh battery is decent, promising long gaming sessions without needing frequent recharges.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the GameSir Cyclone 2 impressed me with its precise TMR sticks, clicky mechanical buttons, and versatile connectivity. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a new controller, especially while waiting for the G7 Pro release. It fits smaller hands comfortably, offers great tactile feedback, and has plenty of customization options through the app. Sure, the plastic could feel a bit sturdier, but considering the performance, it’s a minor trade-off.