Update December 28: Gulikit confirmed that Kingkong 3 will be available for purchase on Amazon beginning of January. It’s available on Aliexpress right now. Only the grey version is available and on Amazon it will also be the grey version first. Black version should come two weeks after that. It’s priced at around $95 on Aliexpress and on Amazon it should be priced similarly. It’s also confirmed that the package contains button replacement set.
Here’s my Gulikit KK3 Max Controller review.
Now onto the original article.
Gamescom 2023 was buzzing with excitement, and one of the major highlights for PC gamers was Gulikit’s stand. They’ve always been known for their innovative controllers, and this year was no exception. The big reveal? Their newest controller – the Gulikit KingKong 3 (KK3 Max / Pro). For those of us who love durable controllers with hall effect sensor sticks it’s a great news, because the piece comes with a lot of new features.
- 🎮 【3 Vibration Mode】3 Vibration modes: Gulikit Maglev motor vibration, HD linear motor vibration and rotor motor vibration, choose from 2 strength levels, light to strong.
- 🎮 【Multi-Platform Support】Compatible with Switch, Switch OLED, Switch Lite, Steam Deck, Android, iOS, macOS and Windows. Achieve a 1000Hz polling rate on PC-Windows, wirelessly or wired, with the included “Hyperlink” adapter. The Bluetooth Version is Bluetooth 5.3.
- 🎮 【4 Detachable Metal Rear Paddles】Equipped with 4 detachable metal rear paddles that mapping any face buttons (not programming/not macro). Comes with 6 metal rear paddles (3 pairs).
- 🎮 【Hall Joysticks & Triggers】The high-quality hall effect joysticks (Switches no-deadzone / deadzone mode by pressing ‘gear’ and ‘screen shot’ buttons ) with a precision level of 2200. Adjust the sensitivity level to 50%, 100%, or 150%. The patent-protected “Smarttrigger” technology for linear digital or analogue trigger modes.
New Features in Gulikit KK3 Max
1. Swappable Back Buttons
Ever wanted to change the buttons on your controller’s back to suit your gaming style? With the KingKong 3, you can. This feature lets you swap out the buttons as you wish, making it super flexible.
2. Gpower CPU with Super Speed
The KingKong 3 comes with a Gpower CPU. What’s special about this? It’s super fast. When you plug in the controller using a wire, it responds almost instantly thanks to its 1000Hz polling rate. This means less delay between your button press and the action on screen.
3. New Magnetic Motor – A 2-in-1 Deal
Gulikit has designed a brand-new type of motor for this controller. It’s like getting two motors in one because it combines features of a rotor motor and a linear motor. This patented technology promises smoother and more immersive vibrations and feedback when you’re gaming.
4. Switchable Trigger Feature
Here’s something unique: the KingKong 3’s trigger button can switch between two modes – analog and digital. This patented feature offers players more control options and flexibility during gameplay.
5. Bright and Cool RGB Lights
For those who love a bit of flair, the KingKong 3 has got you covered. It’s equipped with RGB lights, meaning you can enjoy a colorful light show while you play!
6. Bluetooth 5.3
Bluetooth 5.3 comes with a greatly improved feature called Low Energy and it’s available in Gulikit KK3 Max controller.
And There’s More!
- If you’ve used the previous KingKong 2, you’ll be glad to know that the new version has kept the hall effect sticks. These sticks provide better accuracy and durability.
- The KingKong 3 works perfectly with PCs. And for Xbox players, while it’s not directly compatible, you can still use the controller with a Gulikit’s Goku adapter.
It’s definitely getting close and better in some aspects than the Dualsense Edge Controller. Hall effect and swappable back paddles and RGB’s? Sign me up! We don’t have any information about pricing yet, but we wil update the article when we will know more.
Does KingKong 3 use JH16 Hall Effect joystick module?
On Reddit Jim from Aknes explained that “JH16 is not the model of GuliKit’s self-developed Hall joystick. The Hall joystick of KK3 is upgraded and optimized based on KK2PRO.”
Update: here’s a released manual for KK3 Max
KK3 Standard vs KK3 Max vs KK3 Pro Controllers
Another update. Here’s a comparison table of Gulikit KK3 Standard, Max and Pro gamepads that will release later in 2024.
What are some alternatives to KingKong controller?
We have a whole article with a full list of Hall Effect controllers, but personally right now I would mostly recommend Gamesir G7 SE if you’re looking for a Wired controllers with the newest Hall Effect sticks.
- 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.
I love testing and writing about new tech. I'm also a gamer and an engineer. Check out my Twitter for keyboard and controller news and reviews.
i want one now
Needs ABXY lighted buttons/ buttom letters (color and mode and setting selectable) off. whole button. letter only (color) and off.. or random would be cool!
release date?
December 2023 is possible, but maybe later
Please post or mention the adapter for xbox you wrote about!
It’s the Goku adapter, linked in the article now.