GuliKit Elves 2 Pro Review

Gulikit just recently released Elves 2 Pro controller which is a much upgraded controller to its predecessor – Gulikit Elves. It’s very small and portable with retro easthetic, but it’s got modern tech baked into it – 1000 Hz wired polling rate (170 Hz via Bluetooth), gyroscope and Hall effect joysticks.

As most Gulikit controllers it comes in a neat plastic case and there’s also a USB-C cable, manual and a sticker inside the box. I have the black version, but it also comes in a white version which seems to be inspired from Nintendo GameCube. I can also see some Sega Saturn vibes here due to the similar D-pad and overall shape.

If you are expecting a very comfortable controller with this shape, it’s okay, but it hasn’t got enough support to be super comfortable and comparing it to Xbox controller type shape it’s just a bit tiring holding it for longer sessions especially if you have got bigger hands. Still, compared to Elves 1 or something like 8bitdo SN30 Pro, the added grip length gives it slightly more comfort. On the brighter side, the shape is very travel-friendly and easy to throw in a backpack.

The build quality is quite solid – typical Gulikit standard. Face buttons are soft and quiet (membrane type), while shoulder buttons are clicky and tactile. The joysticks are small but surprisingly accurate. No drift to speak of thanks to Hall effect sensors, and they came perfectly calibrated right out of the box. You also get anti-friction KK rings and the sticks feel smooth and responsive. It’s one of those “set and forget” experiences – no deadzone tuning required unless you really want to dig in.

The D-pad deserves a special mention. Gulikit went with their “floating D-pad” design, which works great for fighting games and retro-style platformers. It’s big, soft, and responsive – although I do wish it had microswitches to help with diagonals. That said, I still enjoyed using it way more than what you get on most travel-sized controllers. You can also switch between 4-directional and 8-directional modes, which is a nice touch for emulation fans.

There are quite a few extra features here for such a compact controller. You’ve got full and semi-auto rapid fire, motion aim assist, and an adjustable vibration motor based on magnetic levitation tech. The HD rumble here really stands out – it’s subtle when it needs to be and punchy when you want feedback. Easily on par with what Nintendo offers. You can even tune the vibration intensity directly from the controller, no app required.

One of the things I really like is how configurable everything is – and it’s all done directly on the controller using button combos. There’s no need to install software or drivers. You can remap buttons, swap AB/XY layouts, adjust deadzones, and even set up motion aim sensitivity. It’s a bit of a learning curve at first (since the manual is pretty dense), but once you get the hang of it, it’s very convenient – especially when switching platforms on the go.

Speaking of platforms, the Elves 2 Pro works on PC, Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS and even Steam Deck. There’s a physical switch on the back to toggle between modes: XInput for PC, Android mode, and Switch mode. I tested it mostly on PC via wired and Bluetooth and both modes worked great. Wired gives you that impressive 1000 Hz polling rate, which is a big plus for FPS games or rhythm titles. Bluetooth was a stable 125 Hz in my case (despite the advertised 170 Hz), but the latency still felt very low. Pairing is quick and painless – just plug it in once with USB-C and you’re good to go wirelessly after that.

Gyro support also works well, and I tested it in games like Apex Legends (via Steam) and Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on Switch. The motion aim assist feels natural, and the gyroscope has good sensitivity without being twitchy. Again, it’s something you can tweak if needed.

Now, this controller does have its limitations. There are no analog triggers – just digital L2/R2 buttons – which might be a dealbreaker for some racing game fans. There are no back paddles or advanced macro features, and while the face button layout is Switch-style, you can’t physically swap the labels unless you disassemble the controller.

Battery life has been solid so far. It’s rated for long sessions, and I’ve been getting several days of casual play between charges. Charging works even while it’s inside the case thanks to a small cutout, which is a thoughtful touch. The case is slim and tough – perfect for travel.

To sum up: the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro is an excellent compact controller packed with premium features. It’s clearly made for people who want portability without giving up on modern gaming standards like gyro, HD rumble, or low-latency input. It’s not for everyone – especially if you prefer large ergonomic controllers or need analog triggers – but for retro fans, Switch gamers, or people on the move, it’s one of the most well-rounded small controllers I’ve tested.

I’d recommend it if you’ve got smaller hands, like playing on multiple platforms, and want a controller that feels more “premium pocket device” than toy. Just don’t expect it to replace your Xbox controller for marathon sessions – this one’s built for travel, quick games, and versatility. It’s priced at $49.99 which is okay, but I can see an argument that it’s a little bit expensive considering the new wave of cheaply priced controllers from brands such as Gamesir.

✅ Pros

1. Compact size with premium features
   Despite its small form factor, the controller offers high-end features like Hall effect joysticks, gyro aiming, and 1000 Hz wired polling rate.
2. Great cross-platform support
   Works without a problem on PC, Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS, and Steam Deck.
3. Highly customizable without software
   You can remap buttons, adjust deadzones, switch between 4- and 8-directional D-pad modes, and even tweak vibration intensity – all using button combos directly on the controller.

❌ Cons

1. Not great for large hands or long sessions
   The compact design compromises ergonomics. It’s fine for short sessions, but not the most comfortable option for bigger hands or extended playtime.
2. No analog triggers
   Only digital L2/R2 buttons are available, which limits the controller’s use in racing games or games that require pressure-sensitive input.